Mahavir Janmotsav

This Jain text, titled "Mahavir Janmotsav" (Celebration of Mahavir's Birth), authored by Darshanvijay and published by Maneklal Harakhchand Shah, details the auspicious birth of Lord Mahavir. The book is part of the "Charitra Series" and is dedicated to Shree Yashovijayji Jain Granthamala in Bhavnagar.

The narrative begins with a prayer (Manglacharan) praising Lord Mahavir as the ultimate being, embodying virtues like knowledge, meditation, courage, charity, strength, yogic power, peace, and victory in all endeavors. It then sets the scene for the divine event:

Prelude and Heavenly Events: The text describes the cosmic joy and auspicious signs that manifest in the heavens and on earth preceding Mahavir's birth. Indra, the king of gods, recognizes the impending arrival of a Tirthankar. He observes the celestial bodies, the harmonious flow of wind, and the luminescence in the heavens, all indicating a significant spiritual event. The divine throne trembles with anticipation, signifying the momentous occasion. Indra commands the celestial beings to prepare for the celebration.

The Birth Scene: The narrative shifts to the royal palace in Kshatriya Kund, where Queen Trishala is about to give birth to the Tirthankar. As the child is born, a maidservant gazes at the sky and witnesses a radiant sun rising in the East, overshadowing the stars. The text emphasizes that no ordinary being, not even Brahma, Vishnu, or Mahesh, can bestow such divine form. The newborn prince is described as the "king of kings," the "king of the universe," and the "jewel of my heart."

Divine Visitors and Ceremonies: The Digkumarikas (celestial maidens) descend from the heavens to attend the birth. They announce the auspicious events and perform ritualistic cleansing of the mother and child. They bathe the prince in celestial waters and adorn him with divine ornaments, recognizing their suitability for him. The celestial maidens then engage in joyful dance and song, celebrating the birth.

Indra's Role and the Abhishek: Indra himself arrives at the royal palace to perform the ritualistic bath (Abhishek) of the newborn Tirthankar. He first places a replica of the infant in the cradle and then, in his divine form, carries the real child to Mount Meru. There, with the help of other deities, Indra performs the sacred bathing ceremony using auspicious waters from celestial vessels. Initially, Indra entertains doubts about the infant's ability to withstand the immense volume of water, fearing it might be overwhelming. However, upon realizing his misconception through divine knowledge, Indra humbly apologizes for his doubt.

Further Celebrations and Blessings: The deities celebrate the birth with music, dance, and prayers. They offer sandalwood worship and perform Aarti. The text highlights the Tirthankar's potential to illuminate the world, grant salvation, and bring prosperity. After the Abhishek, the divine beings place nectar into the infant's mouth and depart.

News Reaches the Palace and Royal Rejoicing: The story returns to Kshatriya Kund, where a maidservant joyfully informs King Siddhartha of his son's birth. The king, overwhelmed with happiness, orders the city to be decorated and the auspicious bells to be rung. The citizens rejoice, offering their blessings and good wishes to the newborn prince.

Naming and Growth: King Siddhartha recognizes the auspicious signs in his son and names him Vardhaman (meaning "increasing" or "growing"). He attributes the prosperity and well-being of his kingdom to the infant. The text concludes by stating that as the prince grows, he will be known by the name "Mahavir" due to his immense strength and divine qualities, and that his teachings will prevail through the ages.

In essence, "Mahavir Janmotsav" is a devotional narrative that recounts the miraculous birth of Lord Mahavir, emphasizing the divine omens, the reverence shown by celestial beings, and the immense joy experienced by the divine parents and the world. It serves as a celebration of a pivotal event in Jainism, highlighting the spiritual significance of Mahavir's advent.