In Jainism, Diwali is the sacred day of Bhagwan Mahavira’s Nirvana (liberation) at Pawapuri on Kartik Amavasya. We light diyas to honor the light of true knowledge that he revealed. The next day (Kartik Sud 1) is Jain New Year and is celebrated as the Kevalgyan day of Gautam Swami.

How Jains observe it

• Prayers to Mahavira and offering “Nirvan Ladoo”
• Reading/reciting scriptures like Uttaradhyayan Sutra
• Fasting, samayik, pratikraman, dana (charity)
• Avoiding harm to any living beings (so no firecrackers)

Digambar and Shwetambar: Both traditions equally commemorate Mahavira’s Nirvana on Diwali and Gautam Swami’s Kevalgyan the next day. There are minor differences in historical year calculations, but the spiritual meaning is the same.

For simple, authentic details:

• Diwali according to Jainism
• Mahavir Nirvana Kalyanak (why Diwali matters)
• Gautam Swami Kevalgyan (Jain New Year day)