New Delhi

President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday extended her heartfelt greetings to the nation on the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, commemorating the birth of Lord Mahavira, the 24th and final Tīrthaṅkara of Jainism. 

This year marks the 2623rd birth anniversary of the revered spiritual leader, celebrated with devotion and grandeur across India.

Taking to X, President Murmu wrote, "On the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, hearty congratulations and best wishes to all the countrymen, especially the people of the Jain community. The embodiment of non-violence and peace, Lord Mahavir showed humanity the path of renunciation, truth and renunciation."

"Let us all take a pledge to work for the welfare of the entire world by following the path shown by him," she added.

महावीर जयंती के अवसर पर सभी देशवासियों, विशेषकर जैन समुदाय के सभी लोगों को हार्दिक बधाई और शुभकामनाएं। अहिंसा और शांति के साक्षात स्वरूप, भगवान महावीर ने मानवता को त्याग, सत्य और अपरिग्रह की राह दिखाई। आइए, हम सब उनके दिखाए मार्ग पर चलते हुए, समस्त विश्व के कल्याण के लिए कार्य…

— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) April 10, 2025

Mahavir Jayanti, one of the most significant religious festivals in Jainism, is observed on the 13th day of the waxing moon in the Chaitra month, as per the Jain calendar.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tributes to Bhagwan Mahavir on his jayanti:

We all bow to Bhagwan Mahavir, who always emphasised on non-violence, truth and compassion. His ideals give strength to countless people all around the world. His teachings have been beautifully preserved and popularised by the Jain community. Inspired by Bhagwan Mahavir, they… pic.twitter.com/BRXIFNm9PW

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 10, 2025

According to religious texts, Mahavira was born in 599 B.C. in Kundalagrama, near present-day Patna, Bihar.

He dedicated his life to spiritual awakening, self-discipline, and the propagation of core Jain principles -- Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness).

He attained Moksha (liberation) in 527 B.C. at the age of 72.

On this auspicious day, Jain communities across the country participate in religious and charitable activities. Temples witness large gatherings of devotees offering prayers, meditating, and performing pujas and fasts. The idol of Mahavira is ceremonially bathed in a ritual known as abhisheka and is then carried out in a chariot procession known as rath yatra, accompanied by devotional hymns or stavans.

Lectures by Jain monks and nuns are delivered in temples, guiding followers on the path of righteousness as envisioned by Mahavira. Many engage in acts of charity such as feeding the poor or contributing to causes like cow protection.

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Ancient Jain temples across India become focal points of celebration, drawing large numbers of devotees.

Additionally, Ahimsa rallies and public events promoting Mahavira's teachings of non-violence and compassion are held in various cities.