Mahavir Jayanti 2026: Mahavir Jayanti, also called Mahavir Janma Kalyanak, is one of the most important festivals for followers of Jainism. It celebrates the birth of Lord Mahavira, who was the 24th and last Tirthankara.
He was born as Prince Vardhmana around 599 BCE in present-day Bihar. At the age of 30, he left his royal life, family, and all comforts to search for spiritual truth.
After about 12 and a half years of strict penance and meditation, he attained Kevala Jnana, which means complete knowledge or enlightenment.
When is Mahavir Jayanti 2026? Mahavir Jayanti Date and Time
Mahavir Jayanti in 2026 will be widely observed on March 31.
Trayodashi Tithi Begins: 07:09 AM, March 30
Trayodashi Tithi Ends: 06:55 AM, March 31
Is Mahavir Jayanti 2026 a Public Holiday?
Public Holiday for Mahavir Jayanti: Mahavir Jayanti 2026 will be observed on March 31 (Tuesday) and is a gazetted public holiday across India. On this day, government offices, banks, and most schools and colleges in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh will remain closed.
The festival, which marks the birth of Lord Mahavira, is widely celebrated by the Jain community, and a public holiday is declared every year to observe the occasion.
School Open or Closed on Mahavir Jayanti 2026 in Delhi, Mumbai, Haryana, UP
Schools across several states, including Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, are expected to remain closed on this day. The festival is listed as a gazetted public holiday in many states, which usually leads to the closure of schools, colleges, and government offices.
| State | School Holiday on March 31 |
|---|---|
| Delhi | Gazetted holiday; schools likely closed |
| Uttar Pradesh | Public holiday; schools likely closed |
| Gujarat | Holiday observed; schools likely closed |
| Maharashtra | Observed in some districts; confirm with schools |
| Karnataka | Holiday in some regions |
| Kerala | Holiday in some areas |
| West Bengal | Public holiday; schools likely closed |
| Rajasthan | Public holiday; schools likely closed |
| Tamil Nadu | Holiday in some districts |
| Madhya Pradesh | Public holiday; confirm with schools |
| Bihar | Holiday observed; school closure may vary |
| Haryana | Public holiday; schools likely closed |
| Punjab | Holiday observed; school closure may vary |
Students are advised to check the official notice of their school and private institutions.
Manisha Chauhan is a passionate journalist with 3 years of experience in the media industry, covering everything from trending entertainment buzz and celebrity spotlights to thought-provoking book reviews and practical health tips. Known for blending fresh perspectives with reader-friendly writing, she creates content that informs, entertains, and inspires. When she’s not chasing the next viral story, you’ll find her diving into a good book or exploring new wellness trends.
