Jain Calendar 2024 Today
Jain Calendar 2024 Today
As a practicing Jain, I have always been fascinated by the Jain calendar and the many festivals and events that it holds. In this article, I will be sharing my personal experience and knowledge about the Jain calendar for the year 2024. From important dates to festivals and celebrations, this guide will provide everything you need to know about Jain Calendar 2024 Today.
What is the Jain Calendar?
The Jain calendar, also known as the Jaina calendar, is a traditional calendar used by the Jain community to mark important dates and events. This calendar is based on the lunar cycle and is divided into 12 months of 29-30 days each. The Jain calendar is different from the Gregorian calendar that is widely used across the world.
Important Dates in Jain Calendar 2024
The year 2024 in the Jain calendar marks the beginning of the Vikram Samvat 2081. Here are some important dates to keep in mind:
- March 9, 2024 – Mahavir Jayanti
- April 6, 2024 – Akshaya Tritiya
- June 4, 2024 – Nirjala Ekadashi
- August 2, 2024 – Raksha Bandhan
- September 3, 2024 – Samvatsari
Events and Festivals in Jain Calendar 2024
There are many festivals and events celebrated in the Jain community throughout the year. Here are some of the most important ones:
Mahavir Jayanti
Mahavir Jayanti is the most important festival in the Jain calendar. It celebrates the birth of Lord Mahavira, the last and most important Tirthankara of the Jain religion. It is celebrated on the 13th day of the Chaitra month.
Akshaya Tritiya
Akshaya Tritiya is a day of good fortune and is one of the most auspicious days in the Jain calendar. It is celebrated on the third day of the bright half of the Vaishakha month.
Nirjala Ekadashi
Nirjala Ekadashi is a day of fasting and is celebrated on the 11th day of the bright half of the Jyeshtha month. On this day, Jains fast without water and food to seek blessings from Lord Vishnu.
Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan is a festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. It is celebrated on the full moon day of the Shravana month.
Samvatsari
Samvatsari is the last day of the Jain calendar year and is a day of atonement and forgiveness. It is celebrated on the last day of the Bhadrapada month.
Question and Answer
Here are some common questions and answers about Jain Calendar 2024 Today:
Q: Why is the Jain calendar different from the Gregorian calendar?
A: The Jain calendar is based on the lunar cycle, while the Gregorian calendar is based on the solar cycle. The Jain calendar is used to mark important dates and events in the Jain community.
Q: What is the significance of Mahavir Jayanti?
A: Mahavir Jayanti celebrates the birth of Lord Mahavira, the last and most important Tirthankara of the Jain religion. It is the most important festival in the Jain calendar.
Q: What is the importance of fasting during Nirjala Ekadashi?
A: Fasting during Nirjala Ekadashi is considered to be a way of seeking blessings from Lord Vishnu. Jains fast without water and food on this day.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Jain Calendar 2024 Today:
Q: How can I learn more about the Jain religion and its customs?
A: The best way to learn more about the Jain religion and its customs is to visit a Jain temple and speak to the priests there. You can also read books and articles about Jainism.
Q: Are there any dietary restrictions in the Jain religion?
A: Yes, Jains follow a strict vegetarian diet and avoid foods that involve violence and harm to living beings. They also avoid eating after sunset and before sunrise.
In conclusion, the Jain calendar is a fascinating and important part of the Jain community. From Mahavir Jayanti to Raksha Bandhan, there are many festivals and events celebrated throughout the year. By following the Jain calendar, we can keep in touch with our roots and traditions, and celebrate our culture and heritage.