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.

Overview of Mahavira's life

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.

Related Topics:
Chaitra - Vaishali - Bihar - India - Gregorian calendar - April - Mahavir Jayanti - Pawapuri - Wealth - Conception

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Being the son of King Siddartha and Queen Trisala, he lived the life of a prince; but at the age of thirty, he left his family, gave up his worldly possessions (over the course of a year), and spent twelve years as an ascetic. At one point, it is said that Mahavira had more than 400,000 followers.

Related Topics:
King Siddartha - Queen Trisala - Year - Ascetic

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He died in 527 BC at the age of 72. Jains signify Dipavali, the last day of the Hindu and Jain calendars, as the anniversery of his death and, accordingly, the day he attained Moksha.

Related Topics:
527 BC - Dipavali - Hindu - Moksha

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It should be noted that "the dates that Jainas attach to Mahavira's life are 599-527 B.C.," though "some modern scholars prefer 549-477 B.C."1

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