Diwali is one of the most popular festivals in India. Better known as Deepavali or the festival of lights, Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists and Jains across the country. It unifies every religion, every home, and every heart.
We all know that Hindus celebrate Diwali as Lord Rama came back to Ayodhya on this day and Sikhs celebrate this day as their 5th guru Guru Hargobind was released from prison on the day. But why do Jains celebrate this festival?
Diwali, the festival of lights, is often referred to as Bhagwan Mahavir Nirvan Kalyanak by Jains. On this day, Lord Mahavir attained salvation (moksh). To know more about this read the story of Lord Mahavir and Indrabhuti Gautam.
At the age of 72, Lord Mahavir along with his disciples, had chaturmas (the holy 4 months) in Pavapuri Nagri. People from near as well as far off places came in large numbers to attend the Samvosaran, to hear the divine voice of Lord Mahavir.
Months passed, during karthik month (oct/nov) and amavasya (moonless) night, all the disciples of Lord Mahavir were fasting. Lord Mahavir himself did not eat/drink for 2 days and he was giving deshna (speech) continuously.
All the monks were under the leadership of Indrabhuti Gautam Ji and all the nuns were under the leadership of Chandan Bala Ji. In the evening, Lord Mahavir called Indrabhuti Gautam Ji and asked him to visit Devsharma Brahman who resided in a close by village. Everyone knew it was Lord Mahavir’s final time. People from everywhere were coming to Pavapuri to catch his last glimpse and Lord Mahavir was asking his first disciple, to go away from him. It was a very difficult task for Gautam Swami.
Gautam Swami had been with Lord Mahavir since 30 years, like his shadow, learning from him, caring for him. But now during his last day Gautam Swami was being sent away. With a heavy heart Gautam Swami left and decided to be back with Lord Mahavir before night.
In Pavapuri, as the night approached, people were coming in huge numbers holding lanterns and diyas. Even Gods from heaven were arriving to bow down before Lord Mahavir. Mahavir Swami during his 2 days sermon had completed 55 chapters of Dukh Vipak Sutr, 55 chapters of Sukh Vipak Sutr, 36 chapters of Uttradhhyan Sutr. He was on the 37th chapter of Maru Devi Mata when his Aayush Karam finished and his soul left for Siddhshila (moksh). This day since is called as Mahavir Nirvan Kalyanak.
Gautam Swami, on the other hand, was anxious to know about Lord Mahavir. As he was leaving for Pavapuri, he saw people coming back with heavy heart, some crying. In that moment he realised Lord Mahavir has attained salvation (nirvan).
Gautam Swami Ji was in complete shock. He was very attached to Lord Mahavir. Even with his brilliant mind he could not accept that Lord Mahavir would leave him one day. He never wanted to think of the time when he would have to live without him. He wanted to be with Lord Mahavir during his last few hours. While mourning for this great loss he recalled what Mahavir Swami had asked him –
“Oh Gautam! Do not delay. You are with me since past 30 years. You have taught so many disciples. Now leave this attachment you have for me and move towards the ultimate goal.”
When Gautam Swami realised that this attachment he had for Lord Mahavir was holding him back from his ultimate goal, he attained Keval Gyan, the absolute knowledge.
Thus, all Jains follow this important ritual every diwali and that is chanting the mantra
“Mahavir Swami Keval Gyani Gautam Swami Chaar Gyaani” till mid night on the day of diwali. And after midnight we chant “Mahavir Swami pohonche nirvan Gautam Swami upajyo Keval Gyan”
After Mahavir Swami's nirvan, all his followers and disciples decided to light diyas every year on amavasya night of Karthik month to reminiscence Lord Mahavir and his teachings. From that day on, Diwali is celebrated every year by lighting lamps to commemorate the eternal light and teachings of Lord Mahavir. The lighting of the lamps denotes knowledge or the removal of ignorance.
Mahavir Nirvan Kalyanak ki sab to hardik shubhkamnaein.
Stay blessed.
Stay safe.
Love and light to all.
Neha Jain
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