Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi:
New Delhi, Apr 10: President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday extended warm greetings to citizens across the country on the sacred occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, which marks the birth of Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism.
Taking to social media platform X, the President hailed Lord Mahavira as an “embodiment of non-violence and peace” and urged people to imbibe his teachings. “On the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, hearty congratulations and best wishes to all the countrymen, especially the people of the Jain community. The embodiment of non-violence and peace, Lord Mahavir showed humanity the path of renunciation, truth, and self-restraint,” she posted.
She further added, “Let us all take a pledge to work for the welfare of the entire world by following the path shown by him.”
This year commemorates the 2623rd birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira, believed to have been born in 599 B.C. at Kundalagrama, near modern-day Patna in Bihar. Revered for his profound spiritual insights and ascetic life, Mahavira propagated the core principles of Jainism – Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness) – which continue to inspire millions.
The festival, observed on the 13th day of the waxing moon of the Chaitra month in the Jain calendar, is celebrated with great fervour across India. Devotees throng Jain temples, participating in rituals, meditations, and abhisheka (ceremonial bathing of the idol), followed by rath yatras (chariot processions) through the streets.
Jain monks and nuns deliver discourses on Mahavira’s life and teachings, while the community engages in acts of charity, including feeding the poor and supporting animal welfare. Temples across the nation, especially ancient Jain shrines, turn into spiritual hubs with devotees seeking blessings and enlightenment.
Ahimsa rallies and public awareness programmes highlighting Lord Mahavira’s timeless message of peace, compassion, and self-discipline are also held in various cities, reinforcing his enduring legacy.