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Introduction to Mahavir Jayanti

Mahavir Jayanti is one of the most significant religious festivals in Jainism. It celebrates the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism. In 2025, Mahavir Jayanti will be celebrated on April 10 across India and by Jains globally. The festival marks a time of spiritual renewal, compassion, and reflection on the teachings of non-violence and truth.

Who Was Lord Mahavir?

Born in 599 BCE in Kundalagrama (present-day Bihar), Lord Mahavir renounced worldly life at the age of 30 to pursue spiritual awakening. After 12 years of intense meditation, he attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience) and spent the rest of his life preaching ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truth), and aparigraha (non-possessiveness). His teachings form the foundation of Jain philosophy and ethics.

How is Mahavir Jayanti Celebrated?

The festival is celebrated with grandeur in Jain temples and community centers. Devotees perform:

Prabhat Pheris (early morning processions)
Rath yatras carrying idols of Lord Mahavir
Puja and meditation
Acts of charity, animal feeding, and spiritual discourses

Temples are decorated with flowers and flags, and sermons are delivered about Lord Mahavir’s life and principles.

Government Recognition and National Observance

Mahavir Jayanti is observed as a national public holiday in India, showing the country’s respect for religious diversity. Schools, government offices, and banks remain closed in most states. It serves as a platform to spread awareness about Jainism and its contributions to Indian culture and values.

Relevance to Government Exam Aspirants

Mahavir Jayanti often appears in the static GK and current affairs sections of competitive exams. Questions related to religious festivals, Indian philosophies, historical personalities, and public holidays are especially relevant for IAS, PCS, SSC CGL, RRB, Banking, and Defence exams.

Why This News is Important

Significance in Static and Cultural GK

For students preparing for government exams, Mahavir Jayanti holds immense importance under Indian culture, religion, and festivals. Awareness of such topics is crucial, especially for exams testing general studies, ethics, and Indian heritage.

Frequently Asked in Competitive Exams

This festival is frequently asked in exams like SSC CGL, UPSC Prelims, PCS, Banking, and CDS. Questions typically focus on the birthplace of Mahavir, his teachings, sects of Jainism, and related historical timelines.

Historical Context: Origins of Mahavir Jayanti

Lord Mahavir was born into a royal family of the Ikshvaku dynasty and chose the path of asceticism to seek enlightenment. He is believed to have attained Nirvana at the age of 72 in Pavapuri, Bihar. The celebration of Mahavir Jayanti dates back centuries and reflects the deep-rooted presence of Jainism in India’s religious and philosophical history. His teachings also influenced other Indian religions and movements promoting non-violence and simplicity.

Key Takeaways from “Mahavir Jayanti 2025: Jain Festival”

S.No.	Key Takeaway
1	Mahavir Jayanti 2025 will be celebrated on April 10.
2	It commemorates the birth of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism.
3	The day is marked by prayers, processions, and acts of charity.
4	Mahavir Jayanti is a national public holiday in India.
5	It is an important topic in general awareness for government exams.

Mahavir Jayanti 2025 date

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is Mahavir Jayanti 2025 celebrated?

Mahavir Jayanti will be celebrated on April 10, 2025.

2. Who was Lord Mahavir?

Lord Mahavir was the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism, born in 599 BCE in Kundalagrama (Bihar).

3. Why is Mahavir Jayanti important?

It marks the birth of Lord Mahavir and is a major religious event for Jains, emphasizing his teachings of non-violence, truth, and renunciation.