“Ahimsa Parmo Dharma” – Non-violence is the highest duty.
These words may be thousands of years old, but they feel just as powerful today.This message was the heartbeat of Lord Mahavir’s life – a spiritual leader, reformer, and teacher who lived more than 2,500 years ago.
But who exactly was he? And why should our children, growing up in a world of gadgets, Google, and fast-paced everything, care about his life?
Let’s explore Lord Mahavir’s story — and why his teachings are still perfect for little minds with big hearts.
Who Was Lord Mahavir?
Lord Mahavir was born as Vardhaman around 599 BCE, in a royal family in Kundagrama, near modern-day Bihar. His parents, King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala, were known for their kindness and wisdom.
Despite growing up with riches, comfort, and a loving family, Vardhaman had something else on his mind — he wanted to understand life on a deeper level.
At the age of 30, he gave up his royal life and chose a path of meditation, nonviolence, and truth, becoming a wandering monk in search of spiritual truth.
After 12 years of deep meditation and penance, he attained Kevalgyan—perfect knowledge.
From then on, he became known as Mahavir, meaning “Great Hero,” he spent the rest of his life teaching the world about kindness, compassion, and how to live a meaningful life.
He became the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism, a guide who helps others cross the ocean of worldly troubles.
Mahavir spent the rest of his life teaching kindness, non-violence, honesty, and simplicity. His gentle way of living still inspires millions of people around the world.
Key Teachings of Lord Mahavir – Made Simple for Kids
Lord Mahavir’s core teachings are known as the Five Great Vows (Mahavratas). These principles shaped his spiritual path, and they continue to offer timeless wisdom that children can apply in their everyday lives.
Here’s a closer look at each vow—and how it relates to the experiences of young minds today.
1. Ahimsa (Non-Violence)
Mahavir taught that every living being, no matter how small or different, has a soul. He encouraged people to live gently—without causing harm through actions, words, or even thoughts.
For kids:
Be gentle with animals. Speak kindly, even when upset. Choose peace over hitting or yelling.
2. Satya (Truth)
He believed that truth builds trust and clarity in life. Speaking honestly helps people feel safe around us and strengthens our relationships.
For kids:
If you made a mistake, say so. If you forgot your homework, don’t make up a story. Telling the truth shows courage.
3. Asteya (Non-Stealing)
Mahavir emphasized the importance of respecting what belongs to others. Taking anything without permission—time, belongings, or even credit—is a form of dishonesty.
For kids:
Always ask before borrowing something. Wait your turn. Respect other people’s space and ideas.
4. Brahmacharya (Self-Control)
For monks, this vow meant renouncing worldly pleasures. For children, it can be understood as practicing self-discipline—managing impulses and emotions with care.
For kids:
It’s okay to feel upset when things don’t go your way—but take a deep breath instead of lashing out. Try to stay focused, even when distracted.
5. Aparigraha (Non-Possessiveness)
Mahavir taught that true happiness comes from within—not from collecting more things. Simplicity, generosity, and contentment lead to peace of mind.
For kids:
Share your toys. Avoid comparing what you have with others. Focus on enjoying what you already own.
The Life of Guru Ravidas: A Timeless Legacy
Why Lord Mahavir Still Matters Today
Though he lived more than 2,500 years ago, Lord Mahavir’s teachings continue to hold deep meaning—especially in the fast-paced world our children are growing up in.
In a world full of noise, he teaches stillness.
Children today are surrounded by screens, sounds, and constant stimulation. Mahavir’s emphasis on silence and introspection offers an important reminder: it’s okay to pause, reflect, and take a break from the rush.
In a world of conflict, he models kindness.
Whether it’s disagreements at school, sibling quarrels at home, or the pressures of social media, kids face many emotional challenges.
Mahavir’s message of ahimsa, or non-violence, helps children understand the value of responding with patience, empathy, and respect.
In a world of over-consumption, he inspires simplicity.
Modern life encourages children to want more—more toys, more gadgets, more attention. Mahavir taught that true happiness doesn’t come from possessions but from being content with what we already have.
His example encourages children to live mindfully and appreciate life’s simple joys.
Activities to Explore Lord Mahavir’s Life at Home
Looking for simple ways to introduce Lord Mahavir’s life and teachings to your child? Here are some fun and meaningful activities you can try at home.
1. Read a Storybook
Choose a child-friendly book that shares stories from Mahavir’s life. Many Jain temples, libraries, and online bookstores offer illustrated versions with short, age-appropriate narratives that highlight his values and experiences.
2. Try Silent Time
Set aside five minutes each day for quiet reflection—no talking, no screens, just stillness. You can call it “Mahavir Quiet Time.” It helps children slow down, breathe, and connect with their inner calm.
3. Draw or Color
Encourage your child to draw Lord Mahavir meditating under a tree or create a simple scene that reflects kindness or non-violence. Printable coloring sheets based on his life and values can also be a great way to combine creativity with learning. (Would you like a printable pack? I’d be happy to create one!)
How Mahavir Jayanti is Celebrated
Mahavir Jayanti is the most significant festival in Jainism. It commemorates the birth of Lord Mahavir and typically falls in March or April, based on the lunar calendar.
In India, the day is marked with temple visits, where devotees offer prayers and listen to discourses about Mahavir’s life and teachings.
Many communities organize processions featuring beautifully decorated idols of Lord Mahavir, often accompanied by music and chanting.
Acts of service, such as feeding the poor or donating to charitable causes, are encouraged as a way to embody Mahavir’s values.
Children participate by performing short plays, singing devotional songs, or sharing stories from his life—making the celebration both meaningful and educational for young minds.
Simple Jain Values Kids Can Practice Every Day
Lord Mahavir didn’t just teach for monks or grown-ups—his messages are easy for children to understand and live by too.
Here are a few ways kids can practice Jain values in their daily lives:
- Be Kind to All Living Beings: Gently put bugs outside instead of squishing them. Feed the birds. Water a plant.
- Speak the Truth: If something goes wrong, be brave and tell the truth—even when it’s hard.
- Share and Care: Let someone else have a turn. Offer your help without waiting to be asked.
- Keep It Simple: Be happy with what you have. You don’t need the latest toy to feel good inside.
- Take a Pause: When you’re angry or upset, take a deep breath instead of reacting right away.
These little habits might seem small, but over time, they help children grow into thoughtful, kind, and grounded individuals—just the kind of person Mahavir would’ve smiled at.
Final Thoughts: Little Steps Toward a Big Heart
Lord Mahavir’s life isn’t just for grown-ups or spiritual seekers — it’s for every child learning how to be kind, strong, and wise in their own way. Whether your child is calming their temper, sharing with a sibling, or trying to tell the truth even when it’s hard — they’re living a little bit like Mahavir.
Let’s make these timeless values a part of our everyday stories, bedtime chats, and mealtime talks. Because raising kind kids in today’s world? That’s the real revolution.
Further Reading
