Every year, Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated with devotion, reverence, and a renewed sense of spiritual awakening. We light diyas, offer prayers, and remember the birth of a great soul—Bhagwaan Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. But as we perform these rituals, do we ever pause and ask ourselves: why is he still relevant in today’s fast-paced, hyper-connected, and often divided world?
The answer lies in the timeless nature of his teachings. In a world craving peace, purpose, and compassion, Bhagwaan Mahavir’s philosophy offers a path that is as relevant—if not more—as it was over 2600 years ago. His life wasn’t just an ancient spiritual tale; it is a living guidebook for the modern soul.
Who Was Bhagwaan Mahavir?
Born in 599 BCE in present-day Bihar, Bhagwaan Mahavir was a prince of the Ikshvaku dynasty. His birth anniversary is celebrated as Mahavir Jayanti, one of the most important festivals in Jainism. Despite being born into privilege and luxury, he gave up everything at the age of 30 to seek the ultimate truth.
Through rigorous meditation, penance, and self-restraint, he attained Keval Gyaan—a state of pure, infinite knowledge. For the next three decades, he traveled across the Indian subcontinent, spreading his teachings rooted in non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), non-possessiveness (aparigraha), celibacy (brahmacharya), and non-stealing (asteya).
But his message wasn’t bound to a specific era. His core teachings are strikingly applicable even today.
1. Ahimsa: Non-Violence in Every Thought and Action
One of the cornerstones of Mahavir’s teachings was Ahimsa Parmo Dharma—non-violence is the highest form of religion. On Mahavir Jayanti, this principle takes center stage, reminding us that true peace begins when we stop causing harm to others—physically, emotionally, or mentally.
In a world where violence permeates news cycles, online spaces, and even relationships, ahimsa becomes more than a spiritual idea—it becomes a necessity. From reducing hate speech and cyberbullying to practicing empathy and forgiveness, we can embody ahimsa in daily life.
Even our dietary choices can reflect non-violence. Choosing plant-based food and avoiding harm to animals aligns with Mahavir’s principle of reverence for all life forms.
2. Embracing Minimalism Over Materialism
Mahavir renounced material possessions not to escape the world, but to highlight the illusion of fulfillment that materialism brings. His simple lifestyle teaches us that happiness lies in reducing desires, not in increasing acquisitions.
In today’s consumer-driven world, we are constantly bombarded with messages to buy more, achieve more, and want more. Yet studies show that despite having more than any previous generation, we are more stressed, anxious, and disconnected.
Mahavir Jayanti serves as a reminder to pause and reflect: Are we owning our possessions, or are they owning us?
By choosing to simplify our lives, declutter our homes, and let go of unnecessary wants, we move closer to inner peace.
3. Self-Mastery in a Distracted Age
One of the most profound aspects of Bhagwaan Mahavir’s life was his deep self-discipline. He meditated for years, often under extreme hardship, mastering his mind, body, and emotions.
Contrast that with today’s reality—we live in an age of distraction. Notifications, reels, and endless scrolling consume our attention. The ability to be still, to focus, and to be present is rare—and yet, so needed.
On Mahavir Jayanti, we can commit to regaining control over our minds. Practicing meditation, limiting digital exposure, and cultivating self-awareness are steps toward self-mastery that Mahavir exemplified.
4. Equality and Compassion for All Living Beings
Long before terms like “climate change” or “animal rights” entered our vocabulary, Bhagwaan Mahavir emphasized the sanctity and equality of all life. His teachings promote universal compassion—a belief that every soul, no matter how small, has intrinsic worth.
This is deeply relevant in today’s ecological crisis. From deforestation and pollution to the exploitation of animals and natural resources, our modern lifestyles often ignore the interconnectedness of all life.
Mahavir Jayanti is an opportunity to honor his vision by making eco-conscious choices, supporting cruelty-free practices, and embracing sustainability—not as a trend, but as a moral duty.
5. Walking in Truth and Integrity
Perhaps the most compelling part of Mahavir’s legacy is that he practiced what he preached. His life was a living embodiment of his teachings. He didn’t seek validation or fame. He walked his truth—even when it meant walking alone.
Today, when we are often pulled in many directions—trying to fit in, impress others, or conform to societal norms—his example urges us to reconnect with our own values. To speak our truth, act with integrity, and live authentically.
This Mahavir Jayanti, let us reflect on how aligned we are with our inner truth. Are our actions in harmony with our beliefs?
Why We Still Need Mahavir’s Teachings Today
Modern life is full of conveniences, but it often lacks meaning. We may have the world at our fingertips, but inner peace still feels out of reach. Bhagwaan Mahavir’s teachings offer a powerful antidote.
He showed us that the way forward isn’t about more technology or more noise—it’s about silence, self-reflection, and simplicity. He wasn’t trying to convert people. He was offering them tools to discover their own truth.
That’s why Mahavir Jayanti is not just a celebration of his birth—it’s an invitation to live differently.
A Conscious Call This Mahavir Jayanti
Instead of limiting Mahavir Jayanti to traditional rituals, let’s use it as an opportunity to grow spiritually and ethically. Consider these small, powerful steps:
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Speak one kind word daily
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Practice 15 minutes of silence each morning
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Choose meals that are cruelty-free
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Buy less, share more
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Listen more deeply—to others and yourself
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Spend time in nature and respect its rhythms
Every small step toward compassion and awareness is a tribute to Bhagwaan Mahavir’s light.
Conclusion: A Timeless Light for Modern Times
Mahavir Jayanti is not just a festival—it is a living legacy. It reminds us that in a noisy, chaotic world, we can still choose stillness. In a competitive world, we can still choose compassion. In a material world, we can still choose meaning.
Let this Mahavir Jayanti be more than a ritual—let it be a rebirth of purpose within us.
Jai Mahavir. Jai Ahimsa.
Author: Shaurya Singh
Founder and Spiritual guide