Mahavir Jayanti 2023
Mahavir Jayanti is one of the most significant festivals the Jain community people celebrate in India and around the world. It marks the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir. He is the founder of Jainism and the 24th and last Tirthankara. Moreover, the festival occurs on the 13th day of the bright half of the month of Chaitra in the Hindu calendar. This usually falls in March or April. On this day, Jains offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Mahavir. They also organize processions, visit Jain temples, and participate in charitable activities. Thus, Mahavir Jayanti 2023 will be in April. In brief, let us know more about the festival and the celebrations related to it.
Mahavir Jayanti 2023: Date and Time
The timing of Mahavir Jayanti puja varies depending on the location and the tradition followed by the particular Jain community. In general, people perform the puja during the early morning hours, around sunrise. As per Jainism, it is an auspicious time for worshiping the deity.
However, it’s important to note that Mahavir Jayanti is not just a one-day festival. Instead, people typically celebrate over a period of several days leading up to the main day of the festival. During this time, Jains may perform special rituals and puja at home or in Jain temples. Moreover, they participate in cultural and religious activities.
In addition, if you are planning to perform Mahavir Jayanti puja at home or in a temple, it’s a good idea to consult with a Jain priest or spiritual leader in your community. Thus, perform this to determine the appropriate timing and rituals to follow. Hence, they shall guide you in performing the puja with proper devotion and reverence, in accordance with the traditions and teachings of Jainism.
Significance of Mahavir Jayanti
The significance of Mahavir Jayanti lies in its celebration of the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir. Evidently, he preached the principles of non-violence, truthfulness, and compassion. Hence, his teachings emphasize the importance of self-discipline, detachment from material desires, and the attainment of spiritual enlightenment.
Mahavir Jayanti is also a day to reflect on the values and teachings of Jainism and to renew one’s commitment to leading a virtuous and meaningful life. Moreover, it is a time for Jains to come together as a community and celebrate their faith and heritage and spread the message of peace and harmony to the world.
16 dreams Mata Trishala saw before the birth of Lord Mahavir
According to Jain tradition, Queen Trishala, the mother of Lord Mahavir, had a total of 16 auspicious dreams before his birth. These dreams were a sign of the great destiny for her son. Here are the 16 dreams:
- Elephant entering the womb of Trishala. This symbolizes that her child would be pure, strong, and wise.
- Lion entering the womb. This symbolizes that her child would be brave and fearless.
- Divine bull entering the womb. This symbolizes that her child would be virtuous and strong.
- Magnificent Garuda bird entering the womb. This symbolizes that her child would possess great power and speed.
- Pair of gold bangles. This symbolizes that her child would be a great ruler.
- Rising sun. This symbolizes that her child would spread light and knowledge.
- Full Moon. This symbolizes that her child would bring glory to the family.
- Sea of milk with a lotus flower. This symbolizes that her child would be pure and gentle.
- Celestial palace. This symbolizes that her child will have luxury and comfort.
- Flame without smoke. This symbolizes that her child would be without desire and attachment.
- Necklace of pearls. This symbolizes that her child would be wealthy and prosperous.
- Jar overflowing with water. This symbolizes that her child would be kind and generous.
- Pond full of lotus flowers. This symbolizes that her child would be pure and perfect.
- Heaps of gems and jewels. This symbolizes that her child would be precious and valuable.
- Throne made of precious stones. This symbolizes that her child would be a great ruler.
- Goddess resembling the goddess of wealth. This symbolizes that her child would bring good fortune and prosperity.
