This day is very auspicious and important day for the Jains. This day is seen as the birthday of the 24th and last Tirthankara (teaching God), Mahavira.
He was also the founder of Jainism in India. He preached non- violence and the concept of salvation. On this day, many of his followers take out Rath yatras. The rath includes the idol of Mahavir and bhajans are recited.
Many Jains also conduct charitable acts, take donations for doing some good work and nuns and monks preach Jainism in temples. On the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, most market places, offices, schools etc remain close on this day.
