Mahavir Jayanti in India ― Date, History, and Details
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History of Mahavir Jayanti in India and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
Mahavir Jayanti is a religious festival celebrated by Jains all over India to commemorate the birth of Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara of the present age (Avasarpani). It falls on the 13th day of the bright half of the lunar month of Chaitra (March–April) and is one of the most important festivals in the Jain calendar.
On this day, Jains all over the country dress up in their best clothes and visit temples to offer prayers and listen to religious discourses. Devotees also take part in special pujas and yatras (processions) to mark the occasion.
The celebrations of Mahavir Jayanti include a number of rituals and traditions that are followed by Jains all over the country. One of the most important traditions is the recitation of the Kalpasutra, a sacred text which contains the life story of Lord Mahavira. This is usually done in the presence of a holy man or a monk who is considered to be an embodiment of Lord Mahavira himself.
Another important tradition associated with Mahavir Jayanti is the donation of food and clothes to the needy and the poor. This is done as a mark of respect for Lord Mahavira who preached the importance of helping others and being kind to all living beings.
Mahavir Jayanti is a time for introspection and reflection for Jains all over the world. It is a day to remember the teachings of Lord Mahavira and to pledge to follow his path of truth, non-violence and compassion.