KATHMANDU: The 2625th birth anniversary of Mahavir Jain, who devoted his life to spreading the message of truth, non-violence, non-attachment, non-stealing, and celibacy, is being celebrated across the country today with various programs.
Mahavir Jain was born to King Siddhartha and Queen Trishula in Kundalgram, a village near Vaishali in India, on the day of Chaitra Shukla Trayodashi in 599 BC.
Although born into a royal family, Jain scriptures mention that he renounced worldly life in search of peace and truth. After undertaking rigorous penance for about 12 years, he attained enlightenment and began sharing Jain philosophy with society.
According to traditional belief, Jainism recognizes 24 Tirthankaras, spiritual teachers who show the path of righteousness. Mahavir Jain, the 24th Tirthankara, emphasized the principles of non-violence, truth, and non-possession.
He taught that harming others constitutes violence, while doing good to others is true non-violence. His teachings are preserved in sacred texts, including the Uttaradhyayana Sutra, which is widely regarded as an important Jain scripture. Its Nepali translation was carried out by Dr. Manibhadra Muniji, founder of Manav Lin Kendra.
On the occasion of his birth anniversary, various organizations, including the Nepal Jain Council, have announced plans to organize programs and celebrate the day across the country.
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