Mahavir Jayanti 2018: History, Significance, Celebrations of Jain Festival

Mahavir Jayanti, an important day in the Jain community will be celebrated on March 29 this year. The day marks the birth anniversary of Lord Mahaveer, the last Tirthankara of Avasarpini. He was believed to be 24th and the last Tirthankara to the righteous path. According to Jain scriptures, Lord Mahaveer was born on the 13th day of the bright half of the moon in the month of Chaitra in the year 599 BCE. As per the Gregorian calendar, the day falls in the month of March or April. Mahavir Jayanti is also known as Mahaveer Janma Kalyanak.

Mahaveer was named 'Vardhamana', which means "One who grows" as there was increased prosperity in the kingdom at the time of his birth. Lord Mahaveer was born to King Siddhartha of Kundagrama and Queen Trishala in Vaishali palace during the Ikshvadu dynasty. He grew to be greatly loved by his villagers.

He preached love, respect and believed in being kind to even the tiniest micro-organisms. Lord Mahaveer was a follower of non-violence which to date is practiced by the followers of Jainism. His values are now a part of Jain religion. He became the King when he came of age and ruled it for over 30 years. Following which, he gave it up and decided to seek enlightenment.

Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated by people of Jain community across the world. On this day, an idol of the founder of Jainism, Lord Mahavir is taken out for a procession on a chariot. Known as Rath Yatra, the devotees chant religious rhymes and his contributions during the procession. The idol is then given a ceremonial bath, known as Abhisheka.

People also indulge in charitable work on this day as it is considered auspicious. Prayer meets and religious events are conducted on this day remembering the founder of Jainism. Food is an integral part of the day like any other auspicious days in the country. Jains follow the satvik diet and refrain from eating onions and garlic.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 28, 2018 01:00 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).