What Pooja do Jains do on Diwali?
Answer
On Diwali, Jains mainly perform Bhagwan Mahavir Nirvan Pooja because Diwali marks the day when Lord Mahavir attained Nirvana at Pavapuri.
Many Jains also do:
- Mahavir Swami Nirvan Pooja
- Nirvan Ladoo offering
- Chaumukhji / Derasar Pooja
- Samayik, Pratikraman, and meditation
- Lighting lamps as a symbol of spiritual knowledge
Explanation
For Jains, Diwali is not primarily a festival of wealth or worldly celebration. It is a deeply spiritual day remembering the Nirvana of Bhagwan Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankar.
Traditionally, devotees visit the Derasar, perform pooja, offer prayers, and reflect on Lord Mahavir’s teachings of:
- Ahimsa — non-violence
- Aparigraha — non-possessiveness
- Samyak Darshan — right faith
- Self-purification and liberation
The Nirvan Ladoo is offered in many Jain temples as a symbolic devotional offering connected with Bhagwan Mahavir’s liberation.
Spiritual Understanding
Lighting lamps on Jain Diwali represents the light of keval jnan and the path of liberation shown by Bhagwan Mahavir. Since the physical presence of Mahavir Swami ended on this day, devotees remember that his teachings continue to guide souls toward moksha.
Takeaway
Jains observe Diwali mainly through Mahavir Nirvan remembrance, pooja, prayer, meditation, and inner purification, rather than only external celebration.