PM Modi leads India's Mahavir Jayanti celebrations

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his wishes on the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira and said that he showed the way to build a peaceful, harmonious and prosperous society.

Lord Mahavira was the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism.

Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated to mark the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir who was given the name of Vardhaman in his childhood. Lord Mahavir was born in 615 BC in a royal family who at the age of 30 decided to renounce sensual pleasures and leave royalty. He practised austerities and meditated for 12 years in a forest to achieve 'Kevala Jnana.' He then propagated the Dharma known as Jainism.

Indian Home Minister Amit Shah also greeted the countrymen on Mahavir Jayanti.

"Best wishes to all the countrymen on Mahavir Jayanti. The teachings given by Lord Mahavir and his five principles of non-violence, truth, asteya, brahmacharya and aparigraha will always guide us," tweeted Shah.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that Mahavir's teachings have strengthened the spirit of peace, harmony, and non-violence in our society.

"I bow to Bhagwan Mahavir on his Jayanti. His teachings have strengthened the spirit of peace, harmony, and non-violence in our society. At 2.00 PM today, I shall join 'Mahavir Jayanti' celebrations opposite Red Fort in Delhi," tweeted Rajnath Singh.

The core teachings of Mahavira are non-violence, non-stealing, chastity and non-attachment. Indrabhuti Gautama was the main disciple of Mahavira who wrote his master's teachings for the benefit of the world.

Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated across the globe with rituals like praying at Jain temples, processions, singing hymns adoring Lord Mahavira, fasting to purify the body and soul, charity, cultural programs and lectures by religious scholars and leaders.

(ANI)