2002 - Bhagwan Mahavir 2600th Janm Kalyanak | Commemorative Coin

The second commemorative coin issued in the 2002 was on the occasion of 2600th Janm Kalyanak of Bhagwan Mahavir.

Mahāvīra, also known as Vardhamāna (599–527 BCE), is the revered sage who laid the foundational tenets of Jainism, recognized as the 24th and final Tirthankara according to Jain tradition. In Tamil, he is referred to as Arukaṉ or Arukadevan, while various texts also identify him by names such as Vira, Viraprabhu, Sanmati, Ativira, and Gnatputra. The Buddhist Pali Canon mentions him as Nigantha Nātaputta.

Born to King Siddartha and Queen Trishala on the 13th day under the rising moon of Chaitra (April 12) in Kundalagrama, near 'Besadha Patti' in the Vaishali district of Bihar, Mahavira's arrival was marked by prosperity in the kingdom. In his mother's womb, he was believed to bring wealth and abundance, earning him the name Vardhaman. Queen Trishala experienced auspicious dreams foretelling the birth of a great soul.

Jain tradition recounts that upon his birth, the Hindu King of the gods, Indra, performed rituals befitting a future Tirthankara and bathed Mahavira in celestial milk before returning him to his mother.

Even in his early years, Mahavira exhibited a virtuous nature, engaging in meditation and distancing himself from worldly matters. At the age of thirty, he renounced his kingdom, family, and worldly possessions, embarking on a twelve-year ascetic journey marked by intense meditation and a profound connection with Jain beliefs. He demonstrated utmost compassion for all living beings, adopting an austere lifestyle devoid of worldly possessions.

After these twelve transformative years, Mahavira attained the revered arihant status, symbolizing the pinnacle of spiritual achievement. The remainder of his life was dedicated to disseminating the eternal truth of spiritual freedom across India. Traveling barefoot and without clothes, he faced the harshest climates, connecting with people from all walks of life to share his profound message.

At the age of 72 years and 4 and a half months, Mahavira attained Nirvana in Pavapuri, Nalanda, Bihar, on the auspicious day of Deepavali, marking the culmination of the Indian and Jain calendars. Jains commemorate this day as the moment he achieved Moksha. While Jains traditionally believe Mahavira lived from 599-527 BCE, some scholars suggest the period from 549-477 BCE.

Mahavir Jayanti, celebrating Vardhaman's birthday, stands as the paramount religious observance for Jains worldwide, honoring the legacy and teachings of this revered spiritual leader.

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