For India's Jain communities, Mahavir Jayanti commemorates the birth of Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara.
Temples, prayers, charitable activities and teachings emphasize principles including ahimsa (nonviolence).
Jainism in India
Jain traditions have made profound contributions to Indian philosophy, commerce, art, architecture and vegetarian food culture.
Major Jain pilgrimage sites include Palitana (Gujarat), Shravanabelagola (Karnataka — famous for the 57-foot Bahubali statue), Mount Abu (Rajasthan — Dilwara temples), and Sammed Shikharji (Jharkhand).
Ahimsa — A Founding Principle
Mahavira taught that all living beings possess a soul and deserve compassion. This principle of ahimsa — non-violence in thought, word and deed — influenced Gandhi and, through him, movements for justice around the world.
Jain vegetarianism is arguably the strictest in India, avoiding root vegetables and certain foods to minimize harm.