Mahavir Jayanti, one of the most revered occasions in the Jain community, was celebrated in Jammu with deep devotion, spiritual reflection, and a renewed commitment to embody and propagate the timeless teachings of Lord Mahavir. At a solemn yet vibrant gathering organized by S.S Jain Sabha, devotees, scholars, youth, and dignitaries from various walks of life came together not only to pay homage to the great apostle of non-violence but also to draw inspiration from his philosophy that continues to offer a beacon of hope in an increasingly fragmented world.
What stood out prominently in this year’s celebration was the earnest resolve expressed by the community to spread Lord Mahavir’s message of universal love, asceticism, and community upliftment across generations. The event served not just as a ritual observance, but as a forum for reiterating the relevance of Mahavir’s core values—non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), non-stealing (asteya), celibacy (brahmacharya), and non-possessiveness (aparigraha)—in the context of the contemporary world. These principles, though rooted in ancient philosophy, carry transformative potential to address many of the moral and social challenges confronting humanity today. At the heart of the observance was the emphasis on selfless service as a spiritual discipline. Speakers highlighted that service to the poor, care for the sick, and support for the marginalized should not merely be acts of empathy but should evolve into a way of life. The audience was reminded that such acts of seva help to dissolve the ego, which, as Lord Mahavir taught, stands as the greatest barrier to spiritual liberation. The Jain path of asceticism, far from being a renunciation of responsibility, was presented as a higher call to engage with society more meaningfully—through charity, humility, and a deep awareness of the suffering of all living beings. A notable aspect of the celebration was the call to integrate Jain values into educational institutions. The younger generation was encouraged to learn about Mahavir’s vision, not just through books, but through lived experience and involvement in community service. The emphasis was clear: if values like non-violence and compassion are introduced early in life, they can become innate habits rather than imposed virtues. This direction offers a much-needed antidote to the rising culture of individualism, consumerism, and apathy seen across societies today. The celebration also served as a reminder of the Jain community’s consistent efforts in welfare and service—be it through running hospitals, shelters, or environmental initiatives. Institutions associated with the Jain faith have for decades operated quietly, contributing immensely to the collective well-being of society without seeking attention. This silent dedication is, in itself, a reflection of the Jain ethos—where action is more important than recognition, and service is a moral duty, not a favour. It was a space for dialogue, for renewing spiritual purpose, and for expressing solidarity with a vision of society that prioritizes peace, coexistence, and minimalism. In a region that has long borne the weight of political, communal, and ecological strife, such reaffirmation of values rooted in non-violence and harmony holds immense importance. The celebration also carried a subtle but significant message to all religious and cultural groups. It reminded us that while faith traditions may differ in form and doctrine, the core human values they promote—love, service, humility, and harmony—are universal. Lord Mahavir’s teachings, therefore, do not belong solely to the Jain community; they are a part of our shared moral heritage, relevant to all who aspire for a more just and compassionate world. In a world increasingly marred by conflict, consumerism, and ecological degradation, Mahavir’s message offers a path of healing—not only for the individual soul but for the global collective.
It is, therefore, not enough to remember Mahavir once a year. His teachings must be lived, taught, and passed on—through families, schools, institutions, and public discourse. The renewed pledge taken this year must translate into action on the ground. Only then can we hope to build a society where love replaces hate, simplicity replaces greed, and service becomes the highest form of worship.