Mahavir Jayanti: Embracing the teachings of the enlightened one

Mahavir Jayanti commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism, whose teachings continue to inspire millions around the world. As we celebrate this auspicious occasion, let’s delve into the life of Mahavir Jain and explore three timeless values that students can imbibe from his divine wisdom.

The Life of Mahavir Jain
Lord Mahavir was born as Vardhamana Mahavira in 599 BCE in Kundagrama, Bihar, India. Renouncing his princely life at the age of 30, he embarked on a spiritual quest for enlightenment. Through rigorous meditation, asceticism, and unwavering devotion, Mahavir attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience) and became a revered spiritual leader. His teachings emphasised non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), compassion (karuna), and self-discipline (tapas), inspiring followers to lead a life of righteousness and moral integrity.

Ahimsa (Non-Violence)
Ahimsa, or non-violence, lies at the core of Mahavir’s teachings and is a fundamental principle of Jainism. Students can emulate this value by cultivating compassion and empathy towards all living beings, fostering a culture of peace and harmony in their interactions. By practicing non-violence in thought, speech, and action, students can contribute to a more compassionate and inclusive society, where differences are respected, and conflicts are resolved through dialogue and understanding.

Satya (Truthfulness)
Truthfulness, or satya, is another cornerstone of Mahavir’s philosophy, emphasising the importance of honesty and integrity in all aspects of life. Students can embody this value by speaking the truth, upholding ethical standards, and being sincere in their words and actions. By cultivating a commitment to truthfulness, students can build trust and credibility in their relationships, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability in their academic and personal endeavors.

Karuna (Compassion)
Compassion, or karuna, lies at the heart of Mahavir’s teachings, urging individuals to extend kindness and empathy towards all sentient beings. Students can cultivate this value by practicing acts of kindness, empathy, and service towards others, fostering a culture of care and support within their communities. By embracing compassion as a guiding principle, students can create a more inclusive and empathetic society, where everyone feels valued, understood, and supported in their journey of growth and self-discovery.

An inspiration for all mankind!
As we celebrate Mahavir Jayanti, let us draw inspiration from the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir, embodying the timeless values of ahimsa, satya, and karuna in our daily lives. By cultivating non-violence, truthfulness, and compassion, students can contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate world, where peace, integrity, and empathy reign supreme. As we reflect on the profound wisdom of Lord Mahavir, let us strive to emulate his virtues, walking the path of righteousness and enlightenment with humility, grace, and unwavering devotion.