Answer

Jains celebrate Diwali as the sacred day of Bhagwan Mahavir’s Nirvana — the day when the 24th Tirthankar, Bhagwan Mahavir, attained liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

For Jains, Diwali is not mainly a festival of wealth or worldly celebration; it is a deeply spiritual occasion of remembrance, reflection, worship, and inner light.

Explanation

Jains commonly observe Diwali through:

• Nirvana Ladoo offering: Devotees offer Nirvana Ladoo in temples as a symbol of reverence for Bhagwan Mahavir’s liberation.
• Temple worship: Many Jains visit Jain temples, perform puja, and participate in special prayers.
• Reading and listening to Bhagwan Mahavir’s teachings: The focus is on non-violence, truth, detachment, self-discipline, and liberation.
• Lighting lamps: Lamps symbolize the light of true knowledge that remains after Bhagwan Mahavir’s physical departure.
• Meditation and introspection: Devotees reflect on the soul, karma, and the path to moksha.
• Charity and compassion: Many Jains engage in acts of kindness, donation, and service.

The day after Diwali is also significant in Jain tradition as the beginning of the Jain New Year in many communities, especially among Gujarati Jains.

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, Diwali reminds us that the greatest light is not external light, but the inner light of the soul. Bhagwan Mahavir’s Nirvana teaches that through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct, the soul can become free from karma and attain moksha.

Takeaway

Jain Diwali is a celebration of Bhagwan Mahavir’s liberation and a reminder to light the lamp of knowledge, non-violence, and spiritual awakening within ourselves.