Dimapur, April 16 (EMN): The governor of Nagaland, PB Acharya, wishes citizens particularly those from the Jain community, a way of life that shuns all forms of violence. He has urged the people to spread peace and harmony, in word and deed by drawing inspiration from Lord Mahavir.
The governor’s office issued a message on Tuesday greeting the community on the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir—the last ‘tirthankara’ (saint) of the Jains—which is being celebrated on April 17.
“On the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, I extend my heartiest greetings and good wishes to the people of the state and in particular to the Jain community. May the life and noble teachings of Lord Mahavira inspire us to abjure violence in thought, word and deed and to always adhere to the path of ahimsa (non-violence),” Governor Acharya said.
“He stated that the teachings of Lord Mahavira are relevant and significant to this day and called on all to draw inspiration from his life to spread love and harmony in the world,” the message added.
Mahavir Jayanti
Mahaveer Janma Kalyanak, is one of the most important religious festivals for Jains. It celebrates the birth of Mahaveer, the twenty-fourth and last ‘Tirthankara.’
The idol of Mahaveer is carried out on a chariot, in a procession called rath yatra. On the way religious rhymes are recited. Statues of Mahaveer are given a ceremonial anointment called the ‘abhisheka.’
During the day, most members of the Jain community engage in some sort of charitable act, prayers, religious rituals etc.
Also, devotees visit temples dedicated to Mahaveer to meditate and offer prayers. Lectures by monks and nuns are held in temples to preach the path of virtue as defined by Jainism. Donations are collected in order to promote charitable missions such as helping to feed the poor. (Source: Wikipedia)
