What are the Different Festivals Celebrated by Jains

What are the Different Festivals Celebrated by Jains

Jain Dharma, an old Indian religion, is also known as Jainism. The followers called the Jains follow the twenty-four saviours and teachers are known as the “Tirthankaras.” Jains celebrate many festivals and they are in the “comasu” period in the calendar.

 

Paryushana

 

The festival which is the most important to the Jains is Paryushana. It is celebrated in the month of August/September (Shravana and Bhadra). It is either celebrated for eight days or ten days. It is basically celebrated for repentance and forgiveness. The word ‘paryushana’ is derived from two words which mean “a year” and “coming back.” It is said that Paryushana removes the karma of the previous year. There are various religious rituals carried out by the Jains during this festival.

 

Mahavir Jayanti

 

The twenty-fourth and last Tirthankara was Lord Mahavira. Mahavir Jayanti is a very important festival for Jains. It is celebrated to honour the birth of Mahavira. It is believed in the Jain text that Mahavira was born on the thirteenth day in the month of ‘Chaitra’ in 599 BCE. In the celebration, the idol of Mahavira is carried in a chariot called the “Rathyatra” and religious rhymes are recited throughout. The Jains do some charity and visit temples.

 

Diwali

 

Holding great significance among the Jains is the festival of Diwali. It is considered to be the anniversary of ‘Nirvana’ or total liberation of Lord Mahavira’s soul. Though it is celebrated among the Hindus as well, it is considered to be the end of the year for Jains. On Diwali, Jains begin by praying and offering ‘Nirvana Ladoo’ in Jain temples. They try to visit Pavapur in Bihar on this day. Lights are a symbol of knowledge and removal of ignorance. They do not burn firecrackers as the most important principle is Ahimsa(non-violence).

 

Gyan Panchami

 

Gyan Panchami is known as the day of knowledge which is the 5th day of Kartika(five days after Diwali). The day is devoted to pure knowledge, fasting, recitation of hymns, meditation, etc. Even the books in religious libraries are cleaned and worshipped.

 

Akshaya Tritiya

 

Akha Teej, also known as Akshaya Tritiya is celebrated on the third day in the month of ‘Vaisakha.’ It is celebrated to honour Lord Adinath’s ending of fast which he did for a year. The Jains consume sugarcane juice which is poured in their cupped hands.

 

Featured Image Credit: thesouthasiannews.com

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