The Mahaveerji Fair stands as a radiant jewel in the crown of Indian fairs, holding a unique place of reverence. Celebrated annually at the Mahaveerji Temple dediclated to Lord Mahavir Swami, the 24th Jain Tirthankara, the fair imbues the sacred enclosure, known as ‘katala,’ with an atmosphere of profound peace. Legend speaks of the idol of Mahaveer Swami enshrined here being discovered by a cobbler from the nearby hillock called ‘Devta-Ka-Tila.’
The Mahaveerji Fair is greatly beloved by the Jain community, especially the Digambar sect. It takes place in Chandan Gaon, some 176 kilometers from Jaipur. Jains from all around the nation and even outside swarm to honor the venerated saint. The fair takes place approximately in March and April of the Gregorian calendar, between Chaitra Shukla Ekadasi and Baisakh Krishna Dwitiya. At the temple, devotees congregate to worship and seek the holy figure’s blessings.
Mahaveerji Fair Steeped in Peace
Picture a colorful fair unlike any other. There is a profound sense of peace here, despite the flurry of activity. This is the charm of Rajasthan’s most beloved festival, the Mahaveerji Fair. It’s a location where people go to pay tribute to a particular saint and find inner serenity.
The Mahaveerji Temple is the main attraction of the Mahaveerji Fair. The widely revered Jain saint Lord Mahavir Swami is the subject of this lovely temple. For Jains, he is the enlightened spiritual leader known as the 24th Tirthankara. The temple and its surrounds come alive with festive activities each year during the fair.
History: A Hidden Idol Revealed
The Mahaveerji Temple holds a special treasure – the idol of Lord Mahavir Swami. But the story of how this idol came to be found is shrouded in legend. Here is what some people believe:
A long time ago, a villager noticed his cow mysteriously giving milk every day, even though she was not supposed to.
Curious, he followed the cow and saw her pouring milk on a specific spot on a nearby hill.
Intrigued, the villager decided to dig at that spot. And guess what he found? A beautiful idol of Lord Mahavir Swami.
This discovery was seen as a miracle, and people believed it was a sign of the saint’s presence. The news spread far and wide, and soon, a temple was built around the idol, becoming the famous Mahaveerji Temple we know today.
Celebrations: A Time for Peace and Reflection
The Mahaveerji Fair takes place during a special time of year – Chaitra Shukla Ekadasi to Baisakh Krishna Dwitiya. This roughly translates to March and April in the regular calendar. It is like a celebration of spring, where everything feels fresh and new, perfectly matching the spirit of the fair.
The fair is especially important for the Jain community, particularly the Digambar sect. Jains travel from all over to be part of this special event. They come to pay respect to Lord Mahavir Swami and celebrate his teachings. The atmosphere is filled with joy and devotion as everyone comes together.
The Mahaveerji Fair is not just about having fun. It is also a time for people to connect with their inner selves. Here are some of the activities you might see:
Meditation: A lot of people visit the fair in search of quietness and serenity amid the happy bustle.
Praying to Lord Mahavir Swami, devotees ask for his blessings and direction.
Seeking Blessings: Visitors touch the idol at the temple in an attempt to invoke good fortune, joy, and serenity in their lives.
A Lasting Peace
The Mahaveerji Fair is a special fusion of joy and peace. People come there to pay tribute to a saint, discover inner serenity, and strengthen their religious ties. The serene ambiance of the fair is bound to make an impression, regardless of your Jain beliefs. Thus, you should think about going to the Mahaveerji Fair if you are ever in Rajasthan around March or April. You may perhaps find a whole new level of happiness and peace.