Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his greetings to the nation on Mahavir Jayanti, emphasizing that the teachings of Lord Mahavir serve as a guiding light for India’s journey towards development.
In a message on X, PM Modi stated, “On the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, my best wishes to all the families of the country. Lord Mahavir’s messages related to peace, restraint, and goodwill are an inspiration for the country in building a developed India.”
महावीर जयंती के पावन अवसर पर देश के समस्त परिवारजनों को मेरी अनंत शुभकामनाएं। शांति, संयम और सद्भावना से जुड़े भगवान महावीर के संदेश विकसित भारत के निर्माण में देश के लिए प्रेरणापुंज हैं।
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 21, 2024
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended his wishes on Mahavir Jayanti, highlighting the enduring principles of Lord Mahavir that continue to inspire generations. In a statement on X, Shah remarked, “Infinite wishes to everyone on Lord Mahavir Jayanti. Lord Mahavir Ji, the eternal symbol of sacrifice, penance, truth, and non-violence, paved the way for the welfare of the entire human race through his teachings. His Panchsheel principles of non-violence, truth, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possession will guide generations.”
सभी को भगवान महावीर जयंती की अनंत शुभकामनाएँ।
त्याग, तप, सत्य व अहिंसा के शाश्वत प्रतीक भगवान महावीर जी ने अपनी शिक्षा से सम्पूर्ण मानव जाति के कल्याण का मार्ग प्रशस्त किया। उनके अहिंसा, सत्य, अस्तेय, ब्रह्मचर्य व अपरिग्रह के पंचशील सिद्धांत पीढ़ियों तक दिशा दिखाएँगे। pic.twitter.com/fzzEf5Al9a
— Amit Shah (Modi Ka Parivar) (@AmitShah) April 21, 2024
Mahavir Jayanti commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, born as ‘Vardhamana’ in 615 BC to a royal family. Renouncing his princely status at 30, Vardhamana embarked on a spiritual quest for truth and enlightenment. After 12 years of rigorous austerity and meditation, he attained ‘Kevala Jnana’ and propagated Jainism.
Celebrated with fervor by the Jain community worldwide, Mahavir Jayanti honors the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, who preached peace and harmony. Core teachings of Mahavira, including non-violence, non-stealing, chastity, and non-attachment, remain integral to Jain philosophy. Indrabhuti Gautama, Mahavira’s chief disciple, documented his master’s teachings for the benefit of humanity.
Observances of Mahavir Jayanti include prayers at Jain temples, processions, hymn recitals, fasting for spiritual purification, charity, cultural events, and discourses by religious leaders. The festival underscores the significance of Jainism globally, particularly in India, where the principle of ‘ahinsa parmo dharma’ or non-violence holds profound relevance in contemporary times.