Mahavir Jayanti – 29 March 2018

The 29^th of March 2018 marks the holy Hindu event of Mahavir Jayanti. Lord Mahavir was the 24^th religious-spiritual teacher, in Jainism. Lord Mahavir was an enlightened soul. Jainism and Hinduism co-exist; in many aspects Buddhism aspect. Jayanti means birth or anniversary remembrance.

Mahavir Jayanti date is determined as per the Hindu lunar calendar. Lord Mahavir was born on the 13^th day of the Shukla Paksha. Shukla Paksha means the rising phase of the moon. He was born in the Hindu month of Chaitra. Chaitra is the 1^st month of the Hindu calendar. Chaitra relates to March/April period in the Gregorian calendar.

Lord Mahavir is believed to be born in the 6^th century BC. This is around the time of Lord Buddha. Lord Mahavir was born in the land that is now the Indian state of Bihar. Lord Mahavir is believed to be the last of the Jain and spiritual teacher. He traveled across the then vast Indian peninsula. He spread the Jain philosophy.

Lord Mahavir’s father was King Siddhartha and mother Queen Trishala. His wife was Yashoda. He had a daughter named Priyadarshana. He left all his comforts, home, princely status. He left in pursuit for supreme spirituality, intense meditation, seeking Moksha, penance etc. Lord Mahavir believed in simple life.

Lord Mahavir endorsed men and women as equals. He discouraged blind material possessions, selfishness, anger, greed etc. Let us remember and pay honor-respect to Lord Mahavir. The day Mahavir Jayanti is dedicated to him.