Mahavira

Mahavira (वर्धमान महावीर) or Mahavir (the "Great Hero" -- Also, Vardhamana (increasing) or Niggantha Nathaputta -- 599 BC-527 BC, though possibly 549 BC-477 BC) was the 24th, and last, Jainist Tirthankara.

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Mahavira established what are today considered to be the central tenents of Jainism and was a contemporary of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha.

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Mahavira was born on the thirteenth day under the rising moon of Chaitra, in the ancient republic of Vaishali, now a district of Bihar state, India. According to the Gregorian calendar, Mahavira was born in April. His birthday is celebrated as Mahavir Jayanti. He died at Pawapuri. He was known as "Vardhamana" (increasing) because it is said that his family's wealth grew after his conception.

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