Mahavir Jayanti 2025: As spring breathes new life into the month of April, Patna becomes a hub of spiritual, cultural, and traditional celebrations. Among the most revered occasions is Mahavir Jayanti, observed this year on April 10, 2025, marking the birth of Lord Mahavir—the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism. The day also shares proximity with other vibrant Indian festivals such as Baisakhi, Jur Sital, and Satuwan, turning the city into a melting pot of festivities, faith, and heritage.
The Significance of Mahavir Jayanti
Mahavir Jayanti holds immense importance for the Jain community. Celebrated on the 13th day of the Shukla Paksha of the Chaitra month, it commemorates the birth of Lord Mahavir in 599 BCE in the ancient land of Bihar. He renounced worldly pleasures at the age of 30 and undertook a journey of intense penance for 12 years. Eventually, he achieved Keval Gyan (omniscience), embraced Digambara asceticism, and laid the foundation of Jainism through five core principles: Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness).
Relevance of Mahavir’s Teachings Today
In a world increasingly grappling with violence, greed, and ecological imbalance, Mahavir’s philosophy serves as a beacon of ethical and sustainable living. His doctrine of Ahimsa goes beyond physical violence to include mental and emotional harm. He preached the celebrated maxim: “Live and let live”, urging humanity to respect all living beings and embrace coexistence.
“Even today, Mahavir’s teachings provide answers to modern dilemmas. From rampant materialism to social unrest, his philosophy of restraint, minimalism, and compassion can pave the way for a more peaceful world.
Grand Processions and Cultural Programs in Patna
To mark the occasion, Patna witnessed vibrant processions and cultural events organized by both the Digambar and Shwetambar Jain communities.
- From Digambar Jain Mandir (Meethapur): A grand procession began at 8 AM, passing through Bikhari Thakur Pul, R-Block, Veerchand Patel Path, Dak Bungalow Road, Exhibition Road, PirMuhani, and Kadamkuan, finally culminating at Congress Maidan’s Digambar Jain Temple. Later, a cultural program featuring performances by children and women artists was organized at Bihar Chambers of Commerce.
- From Shwetambar Jain Mandir (Bakarganj): A parallel procession started at 8 AM covering Thakur Bari Road, Nala Road, Rajendra Path, and Bhattacharya Road, finally reaching Oswal Bhawan at Narayan Plaza. The event concluded with Panchkalyanak Pooja, Aarti, and Sadharmi Vatsalya (community feast).
Baisakhi: Harvest, Heritage, and the Spirit of Khalsa
As the echoes of Mahavir Jayanti resonate, Patna is also preparing for the vibrant Baisakhi festival on April 13, which holds dual importance as a harvest festival and the foundation day of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699.
Beyond its religious essence, Baisakhi represents communal harmony, as people from various faiths join the celebrations—honoring India’s agricultural roots and shared culture.
Jur Sital: The Mithila New Year on April 14
In the northern belt of Bihar, Jur Sital marks the Maithili New Year, falling on April 14. This unique tradition includes rituals such as pouring sacred water over younger family members, symbolizing blessings for peace and prosperity.
Jur Sital reinforces the deeply rooted values of family respect, sustainability, and mental peace in Mithila’s cultural fabric.
Satuwan: A Symbol of Simplicity and Seasonal Change
Coinciding with Mesha Sankranti on April 14 is the Satuwan festival, mainly observed in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh. Marking the transition of the Sun from Pisces to Aries, it symbolizes the beginning of the summer season.
On this day, devotees offer sattu (roasted gram flour) to the Sun God and consume it as prasadam. The simplicity of the food reflects the spirit of minimalism and seasonal adaptation.
Satuwan is also associated with gratitude for food and the cycle of nature. It’s a day of detox—both physical and spiritual.
A Time for Reflection and Renewal
The convergence of Mahavir Jayanti, Baisakhi, Jur Sital, and Satuwan this April offers not just celebrations, but deep reflections on our cultural diversity, spiritual legacies, and collective identity. Whether it’s the non-violence of Mahavir, the valor of Guru Gobind Singh, the peaceful traditions of Mithila, or the seasonal wisdom of Satuwan—each festival urges us to pause, reflect, and strive for harmony.
