Mahavir Jayanti 2025: Date, Significance, Celebrations & Public Holiday Details

Mahavir Jayanti 2025: Date, Significance, Celebrations & Public Holiday Details

Mahavir Jayanti in 2025 falls on Thursday, April 10. This significant Jain festival commemorates the birth of Lord Mahavir, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism. The Trayodashi Tithi, marking the occasion, begins at 10:55 PM on April 9 and concludes at 1:00 AM on April 11. citeturn0search3

Public Holiday Observance: Mahavir Jayanti is a gazetted public holiday in India, resulting in closures of government offices, schools, and most businesses. citeturn0search0 Additionally, banks in several states, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Telangana, will remain closed on April 10. citeturn0search4 The Indian stock markets (BSE and NSE) will also be closed in observance of the holiday. citeturn0search9

Significance and Celebrations: Mahavir Jayanti holds profound importance for the Jain community, honoring the birth of Lord Mahavir, who was born in 599 B.C. in Kundalagrama, present-day Vaishali in Bihar. He is revered for establishing the core principles of Jainism: non-violence (Ahimsa), truth (Satya), and non-possessiveness (Aparigraha). citeturn0search2

Devotees observe this day with various rituals and activities, including:

• Processions (Rath Yatra): Idols of Lord Mahavir are placed on elaborately decorated chariots and paraded through the streets, accompanied by singing and chanting. citeturn0search2

• Temple Rituals: Special prayers and ceremonies are conducted in Jain temples, where devotees gather to meditate and listen to discourses on Lord Mahavir's teachings.

• Charitable Acts: Emphasizing compassion and selflessness, many engage in charitable activities such as feeding the poor and donating to various causes.

These observances reflect the enduring legacy of Lord Mahavir's teachings and their relevance in promoting peace and spiritual growth.