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Chapter 19
JAIN FESTIVALS
(1)
THE
THE BIRTHDAY of Bhagvan Mahavir is celebrated with great interest and devotion. This generally falls in late March or early April (the 13th day of the month of Chaitra in the Indian calendar)
)
Diwali is celebrated by Hindus as well as Jains. However, Jains light lamps for a different reason. Bhagvan Mahavir attained moksha (died) on that day and the lamps or diwas represent true knowledge, dispelling the darkness of ignorance.
(3)
Another important festival is that of Paryushan. Jains celebrate the Paryushan festival around the month of August/September.
Paryushan is the time of religious activities. The festival lasts for eight or ten days.
During these days Jains observe fasts or take some vows. They voluntarily impose some regulations and hardships on themselves to keep their minds firmly fixed on religion.
People go to temples, worship Tirthankars, hear the religious discourses and do Samayika or Pratikraman.
Teachers' Notes
Describe why Mahavir Jayanti is important.
Show photographs of people doing Samayika or Pratikraman.
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