Happy Mahavir Jayanti 2026: Mahavir Jayanti, also known as Mahaveer Janma Kalyanak, is one of the most important and sacred festivals in Jainism. It is celebrated this year on Tuesday, March 31.
This festival commemorates the birth of Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara of the current time cycle in Jain cosmology.
Happy Mahavir Jayanti 2026: History and Significance
Lord Mahavir was born as Prince Vardhamana to the royal family of King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala in what is now Bihar around 599 BC
According to the Hindu calendar, Lord Mahavira was born on the 13th day of Chaitra month.
At the age of 30, Mahavir renounced all worldly possessions and became a wandering ascetic, seeking spiritual enlightenment. Legend has it that after spending 12 years in exile, he attained ‘Kevala Jnana’ or omniscience.
Lord Mahavir dedicated his life to the teachings of non-violence, truth, non-stealing, chastity and non-attachment. He preached that all living beings have a soul and therefore should be treated with love, compassion and respect.
He also emphasized the importance of a simple, peaceful and virtuous life.
Happy Mahavir Jayanti 2026: Tithi
In 2026, Mahavir Jayanti will be widely observed on March 31.
Trayodashi Tithi Starts: 07:09 AM, March 30
Trayodashi Tithi Ends: 06:55, 31 March
Happy Mahavir Jayanti 2026: 5 Essential Teachings
