Mahavir Jayanti, one of the most important and sacred festivals in Jainism, will be celebrated on Monday, March 30 in Karnataka.
It commemorates the birth of Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara of the current time cycle in Jain cosmology.
Karnataka to celebrate Mahavir Jayanti on March 30
In an official announcement, the Karnataka government said the date of the public holiday for Mahavir Jayanti will be shifted by a day – the state will observe the festival on Monday 30.
The notification stated that the holiday would be observed as per the provisions of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881.
Why is Karnataka celebrating Mahavir Jayanti on March 30?
According to an official notification, Karnataka has scheduled the public holiday to “conform with the proper observance” of Mahavir Jayanti.
Read also | When is Mahavir Jayanti 2026 – March 30 or 31? Check tithi, meaning and more
What is closed today in Bengaluru?
- Banks
- Government offices
- schools
- colleges
As Karnataka is a public holiday, banks, government offices, schools, colleges and other institutions covered by the Negotiable Instruments Act will remain closed on Monday, March 30.
All government departments, financial institutions and public sector authorities have been asked to take note of the change and make arrangements.
The SSLC Class 10 third language paper has been postponed — it will now be held on March 31 instead of March 30.
What is open in Bengaluru today?
- public transport: Metro, bus and taxi facilities will operate without interruption. Customers can expect business as usual.
- Hospitals and health services: Emergency services and state hospitals will remain open as scheduled.
- markets: Shops and shopping centers will remain open. A typical day at the markets awaits shoppers.
- Indian stock market: National Stock Exchange (NSE) and BSE are functioning today. The stock market holiday on account of Shri Mahavir Jayanti is March 31.
Read also | Are banks open or closed today on Mahavir Jayanti? Check the RBI calendar
Mahavir Jayanti 2026: Dates and Tithi
Trayodashi Tithi Starts: 07:09 AM, March 30
Trayodashi Tithi Ends: 06:55, 31 March
The rest of India observes Mahavir Jayanti on March 31.
About Lord Mahavira
Born as Prince Vardhamana around 599 BC into a royal family in what is now Bihar, Lord Mahavir gave up his kingdom, family and all material wealth at the age of 30 to seek spiritual awakening.
After 12 and a half years of strict austerities and deep meditation, he attained Kevala Jnana, absolute knowledge or omniscience.
Read also | Why CBDT asked Income Tax offices to remain open on March 31 on Mahavir Jayanti
Mahavir Jayanti 2026: Significance
Mahavir Jayanti is much more than a birthday celebration; it is a profound reminder of the life and universal philosophy of the Jain leader.
He was instrumental in reviving and organizing the Jain philosophical system, teaching that true victory comes from conquering one’s inner desires, ego and senses, earning him the title of Mahavira (Great Hero) and Jina (Conqueror).
The day serves as a time for spiritual introspection, emphasizing peace, harmony and the pursuit of a moral life to break free from the cycle of birth and death (Moksha).
