New Delhi: The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi paid tributes to Bhagwan Mahavir on the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti today. Shri Modi said that Bhagwan Mahavir always emphasised on non-violence, truth and compassion, and that his ideals give strength to countless people all around the world. The Prime Minister also noted that last year, the Government conferred the status of Classical Language on Prakrit, a decision which received a lot of appreciation.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said;
We all bow to Bhagwan Mahavir, who always emphasised on non-violence, truth and compassion. His ideals give strength to countless people all around the world. His teachings have been beautifully preserved and popularised by the Jain community. Inspired by Bhagwan Mahavir, they… pic.twitter.com/BRXIFNm9PW
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 10, 2025
On the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti the PM Modi said “We all bow to Bhagwan Mahavir, who always emphasised on non-violence, truth and compassion. His ideals give strength to countless people all around the world. His teachings have been beautifully preserved and popularised by the Jain community. Inspired by Bhagwan Mahavir, they have excelled in different walks of life and contributed to societal well-being.
Our Government will always work to fulfil the vision of Bhagwan Mahavir. Last year, we conferred the status of Classical Language on Prakrit, a decision which received a lot of appreciation.”
The Essence of Bhagwan Mahavir Jayanti
Mahavir Jayanti is one of the most significant festivals for the Jain community, celebrated with immense devotion and reverence across India and around the world. It marks the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Mahavir, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism, who was born in 599 BCE in Kundagrama, near Vaishali in present-day Bihar. This auspicious occasion is not only a celebration of his birth but also a reminder of his timeless teachings that continue to guide millions towards a path of peace, non-violence, and spiritual awakening.
Mahavir Jayanti typically falls in the month of March or April, depending on the lunar calendar. On this day, devotees visit Jain temples, participate in processions, offer prayers, and engage in acts of charity and compassion. The idol of Lord Mahavir is ceremonially bathed in a ritual called Abhishek, and religious discourses are held to spread his message of righteousness and truth.
The Teachings of Bhagwan Mahavir
Bhagwan Mahavir was a spiritual reformer who renounced worldly pleasures at the age of 30 and spent the next 12 years in deep meditation and austerity. He attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience) and dedicated his life to preaching the principles of Jainism. His core teachings revolve around five main vows: Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy or chastity), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness).
Among these, Ahimsa is the most fundamental. Mahavir emphasized that all living beings, no matter how small or insignificant, have a soul and deserve compassion and respect. This principle laid the foundation for Jainism’s strict vegetarianism and deep respect for life in all forms. In today’s world, marked by violence and unrest, Mahavir’s message of non-violence holds greater relevance than ever before.
The vow of Satya encourages individuals to speak truthfully and live with integrity. Asteya teaches the importance of not taking anything that is not willingly given, promoting honesty and ethical conduct. Brahmacharya advocates self-control and discipline, while Aparigraha urges detachment from material possessions and a focus on spiritual growth.
Bhagwan Mahavir also taught that liberation or moksha can only be achieved through right faith (Samyak Darshan), right knowledge (Samyak Gyan), and right conduct (Samyak Charitra). These three jewels of Jain philosophy are the path to ultimate freedom from the cycle of birth and death.
His teachings transcended barriers of caste, creed, and gender, offering a universal message of peace and harmony. Mahavir Jayanti, therefore, is not just a festival but a day to reflect upon these profound principles and strive to incorporate them into our daily lives.
In a world increasingly driven by materialism, competition, and conflict, the life and teachings of Bhagwan Mahavir offer a timeless beacon of hope and direction. As we celebrate Mahavir Jayanti, let us commit ourselves to walk the path of non-violence, truth, and spiritual wisdom — the true essence of his message.
Also Read : The Divine Union of Consciousness and Energy in Shri Vidya Tradition
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