Mahavir Jayanti books for kids: what it is and how to celebrate
When is Mahavir Jayanti? around Monday 19 April 2027. Dates marked “around” depend on the moon and local calendars.
Mahavir Jayanti celebrates the birth of Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last tirthankara (great teacher) of Jainism, over 2,500 years ago. He taught ahimsa, non-violence towards every living thing, along with truthfulness and not being greedy.
Who celebrates Mahavir Jayanti, and books for each
Jain
Jains visit temples, bathe statues of Mahavira, join processions, listen to his teachings and do charity, such as feeding animals and helping people in need.
📖 Free guideMahavira: The Hero of Nonviolence
Manoj Jain
Mahavira's life and teachings, illustrated by Demi
Questions to ask → View on Amazon ↗
📖 Free guideJainism for Kids
Sulabh Jain, Aryan Jain and Arman Jain
stories of Mahavira and other tirthankaras
Questions to ask → View on Amazon ↗
Questions to ask while you read
Use these with any of the Mahavir Jayanti books on this page. Pick two or three, and there are no wrong answers.
- What is the family in the story getting ready for?
- Which part of Mahavir Jayanti would you most like to try, and why?
- How do the people in the story show they care about each other?
- Is anything in the story like something your family does?
- What would you like to ask a friend who celebrates Mahavir Jayanti?
Ways to celebrate Mahavir Jayanti with children
- Talk about how to be kind to every living thing, even insects.
- Put out water or seed for birds.
- Do one act of charity together.
- Make a simple vegetarian meal.
Mahavir Jayanti picture books at a glance
All the Mahavir Jayanti books on this page: Mahavira: The Hero of Nonviolence (Manoj Jain), Jainism for Kids (Sulabh Jain, Aryan Jain and Arman Jain).
Questions parents ask about Mahavir Jayanti
What is ahimsa?
Not harming any living thing, in actions, words or thoughts. It's the heart of Jain teaching, and many Jains are careful even not to hurt tiny insects.
Related festivals: Paryushana · Diwali
All festivals, by month and by faith →
Traditions vary between families, places and communities; ask your child's friends and their families how they celebrate. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.