Mahavir Jayanti
In Jainism, Mahavir Jayanti is the most important religious holiday. It celebrates the birth of Mahavira, the last Tirthankara. He was born on the 13th day of the rising moon of Chaitra, in either 599 BC or 615 BC (depending on religious tradition).
 
Where :
India
 
When :
The holiday occurs in late March or early April on the Gregorian calendar.
 
More Details :
On Mahavir Jayanthi, Jain temples are decorated with flags. In the morning the idol of Mahavira is given a ceremonial bath called the 'abhishek'. It is then placed in a cradle and carried in a procession around the neighbourhood. The devotees will make offerings of milk, rice, fruit, incense, lamps and water to the people in procession. Some sections of the community even participate in a grand procession. Lectures are held to preach the path of virtue. People meditate and offer prayers. Donations are collected to save the cows from slaughter. Pilgrims from all parts of the country visit the ancient Jain Temples at Girnar and Palitana in Gujarat on this day.

Mahavir Jayanti is also celebrated during the 8 day holy period of Paryushan. During this period, pre-defined readings are carried out from a holi scripture - Kalpa Sutra that contains biographies of Jain Tirthankars. Biography of Mahavir Swami, particularly His birth, is read on the day of Mahavir Jayanti.
 
Images :
 
References :
Wikipedia : Mahavir Jayanti
 
See the dates on which Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated :

Mahavir Jayanthi

Year Month Day Day of Week
2008 April 18 Friday
2009 April 07 Tuesday
2010 March 28 Sunday
2011 April 16 Saturday
2012 April 05 Thursday
2013 April 24 Wednesday
2014 April 13 Sunday
2015 April 02 Thursday
 
Related Holidays :
Republic Day Independence Day Gandhi Jayanti May Day Good Friday
Diwali Vijaya Dashami Holi MahaShivratri Christmas
Krishna Janmastami Ganesh Chaturthi Mahavir Jayanthi Buddha Purnima Guru Nanak Jayanthi
Id-E-Milad Id-Ul-Fitr Bakri Id    
India Holidays List
Holiday List 2013 Holiday List 2014 Holiday List 2015