Mahavir Jayanti 2026: Mahavir Jayanti will be celebrated on March 31, 2026. This festival is of paramount importance to Jainism. Learn about the history of Mahavir Swami and what people do on this day.

Mahavir Jayanti 2026

Mahavir Jayanti 2026: Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Mahavira Swami, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism. This year, Mahavira Jayanti falls on March 31, 2026. Mahavira Swami taught that through control of the senses, truthful conduct, and austerity, humans can purify the soul and attain salvation.On this day, the Jain community remembers the teachings of Lord Mahavira - non-violence, truth, non-stealing, celibacy and non-possession and taking inspiration from his life, takes a pledge to follow religion, kindness and restraint.

Who are the Tirthankaras in Jainism?

According to the Jain texts Tattvarthasutra and Kalpasutra, Tirthankaras are divine beings who, through right view, right knowledge, and right conduct, completely purify their souls and attain omniscience. They then establish the path of dharma (the pilgrimage path) for the world and show the path to salvation.

This is why he is called Tirtha + Karta = Tirthankar, meaning the one who creates the path of religion.

Who is Mahavir Swami?

Jainism holds that after 12 years of rigorous silent meditation, Lord Mahavira conquered his senses. He was named Mahavira because of his fearless, tolerant, and non-violent nature. He attained salvation at Pavapuri at the age of 72. Mahavira Swami provided ideals that guide individuals toward spiritual progress, ethical living, and social peace.

What do we do on Mahavir Jayanti?

• Special Puja and Abhishekam in Temples - In the morning, in Jain temples, the idol of Lord Mahavira is anointed with water, milk, saffron, and sandalwood. This is followed by Aarti, Puja, and Mangal Paath.
• Procession (Rath Yatra) - In many cities, a grand procession is held, with the idol of Lord Mahavira seated on a decorated chariot. It includes hymns, kirtans, and religious tableaux.
• Fasting and Sadhana – Many devotees observe fast or special vow on this day and spend time in meditation and devotion to Lord Mahavir.
• Reading and preaching of Jain texts – On this day, Jain texts like Kalpasutra are recited and Acharyas or saints give discourses on the teachings of Mahavir Swami.
• Charity and Service - On this day, people donate food, clothing, and money to the poor and, to show compassion for all living creatures, feed birds and fodder to animals. It is said that as a result, a person is relieved of all suffering and the path to salvation becomes easier for them.

Main teachings of Mahavir Swami

• Ahimsa – not causing harm to any living being
• Satya – always speaking the truth
• Asteya – Do not steal
• Brahmacharya – control of the senses
• Aparigraha – not accumulating too much