The Holy Land of Jainism: The holy land of India has seen the birth of many religions and philosophies. One of these is Jainism, which shows the path of truth, non-violence and self-purification. Lord Mahavira, the last and 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, was born in Kundalpur (present-day Bihar). This land is still very sacred and a center of reverence for the followers of Jainism.
The story of the birth of Lord Mahavira, his principles, penance, and attainment of salvation is deeply connected to the soil of Bihar. This is the reason why even today places like Vaishali, Kundalpur and Pawapuri are considered the most important for Jain pilgrims.
Also Read: – Bodhgaya – The Enlightenment Place of Lord Buddha and Global Spiritual Hub – Day – III
Introduction to Lord Mahavira and Jainism
The history of Jainism is very ancient. This religion is based on the liberation of the soul and the annihilation of karmas. Lord Mahavira is the last and most revered among the 24 Tirthankaras of Jainism.
- Birth: 599 BC in Kundalpur near Vaishali
- Father: Siddhartha (King of Lichchhavi dynasty)
- Mother: Trishala Devi
- He left marriage and family life and took sanyaas at the age of 30
- After 12 years of hard penance, he attained Kaivalya Gyan (Moksha)
Birthplace of Lord Mahavir – Kundalpur and Vaishali
Kundalpur, which is now located in Vaishali district, is considered to be the birthplace of Lord Mahavir.
Features of Kundalpur:
- Mahavir Janma Kalyanak Sthal is here
- Ancient temples, in which statues of Bal Mahavir are enshrined
- Thousands of devotees come here every year for darshan on Mahavir Jayanti
Vaishali is also a very important place for both Jain and Buddhist religions. It was the capital of the Lichchhavi Republic and Lord Mahavir spent his childhood here.
Teachings and Principles of Lord Mahavira
Lord Mahavira taught five major vows and self-control throughout his life:
- Ahimsa (Non-violence) – not harming any living being
- Satya (Truth) – always speaking the truth
- Asteya (Non-stealing) – not using anything without permission
- Brahmacharya (Brahmacharya) – restrained life
- Aparigraha (Non-possession) – not greedy and hoarding
His teachings still inspire spirituality, morality and self-discipline.
Pawapuri – The Place of Nirvana of Lord Mahavira
Pawapuri, located in the Nalanda district of Bihar, is the place where Lord Mahavira gave his last sermon and attained Nirvana.
Features:
- Jal Mandir – A Jain temple made of marble situated in the middle of a beautiful reservoir
- Swarn Bhandar – Mahavira is said to have been cremated here and the people dug out the soil to collect the ashes of his body, which created a water tank
- This place is considered to be the land of salvation for Jain devotees
Mahavir Jayanti and Religious Festivals
Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated on the full moon day of Chaitra month. On this day:
- Processions, sermons, meditation camps are held
- Jain followers observe fasts, penance and charity
- There are special festivals in Kundalpur and Pawapuri
This festival is not only religious, but it also highlights the cultural heritage of India
Major Jain Pilgrimage Sites in Bihar
Bihar has many pilgrimage sites related to Jainism:
- Kundalpur – Birthplace
- Pawapuri – Nirvana Sthal
- Rajgir – Preaching place
- Lachhor, Gunashekhar Stupa, Vishwa Shanti Stupa (Rajgir) – Other important sites
All these sites have a very peaceful atmosphere which is ideal for meditation and sadhana.
Travel Guide – How to Reach Jain Pilgrimage Sites
Kundalpur and Vaishali:
- Nearest railway station: Hajipur or Patna
- Airport: Patna (60 km)
- Easily accessible from any corner of Bihar by road
Pawapuri:
- Nearest railway station: Bihar Sharif
- Airport: Patna (100 km)
- Connected to Gaya and Nalanda by road
These sites are being developed as Jain pilgrimage circuit by the government.
Conclusion – The Holy Land of Jainism
Lord Mahavira was not just a religious leader, but he was a symbol of humanity, non-violence and morality. His teachings influenced not only India, but the entire world.
Bihar, especially places like Kundalpur, Pawapuri and Vaishali, are still the living heritage of this great philosophy. Every Jain follower must come here once and experience the spiritual energy of this land.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Where was Lord Mahavira born? Kundalpur (Vaishali district, Bihar).
Q2. What is Pawapuri famous for? Lord Mahavira attained nirvana here.
Q3. When is Mahavir Jayanti celebrated? On the full moon day of Chaitra month.
Q4. What are the major Jain pilgrimage sites in Bihar? Kundalpur, Pawapuri, Rajgir, Vaishali.
Q5. What were the five fasts prescribed by Lord Mahavira? Non-violence, truth, selflessness, celibacy, non-religion.
Also Read: – Bodhgaya – The Enlightenment Place of Lord Buddha and Global Spiritual Hub – Day – III
✍️What will be the next part?
Tomorrow in this blog series, we will learn about the legacy of Patna – From Pataliputra to Modern Capital.
