Intro: Vijayapura district administration and local bodies celebrated Mahavir Jayanti, honouring the teachings of Bhagwan Mahavir and spreading messages of peace and equality

Vijayapura

The district administration, in collaboration with the Zilla Panchayat and the Department of Kannada and Culture, celebrated Mahavir Jayanti in Vijayapura on Monday with great fervour.

The programme began at Kandagal Shri Hanumantharaya Rangamandir, inaugurated by Additional Deputy Commissioner Dr. Audram, who paid rich tributes to Bhagwan Mahavir. Addressing the gathering, he described Mahavir as an embodiment of sacrifice, equality, and compassion. “Bhagwan Mahavir rejected the caste system and emphasised that all human beings are equal,” he said.

Dr. Audram highlighted the relevance of Mahavir’s principles of truth, non-violence, and righteousness in today’s world. He urged the youth to understand and follow these values to lead a meaningful life. “Mahavir showed the path of self-realisation and inspired humanity to live with compassion and honesty,” he added.

A special lecture by Hirachand Gandhi elaborated on Mahavir’s five core principles—truth, non-violence, non-stealing, non-possession, and celibacy—stating that following them leads to spiritual liberation. Deputy Commissioner of the City Corporation Mahaveer Borannavar spoke about Mahavir’s eternal philosophies and shared historical insights related to Bharata and Bahubali. Another speaker, Sheetal Kumar Oghi, urged the public to utilise government facilities and follow Mahavir’s teachings.

Officials including Minority Welfare Department officer Prashant Pujari, M.M. Vastrad, and Manikanta Shah, along with community representatives and citizens, attended the event. The programme began with a welcome address by Mohan Kattimani.

Earlier, a colourful procession started from Shri Siddeshwar Temple, featuring floral tributes, traditional music, and cultural performances, adding vibrancy to the celebrations and highlighting the city’s devotion to Bhagwan Mahavir.