Paryushan Mahaparva 2026

In a magnificent gathering at Mumbai’s Dome SVP Stadium, devotees from around the world congregated to celebrate the most revered of Jain festivals. Beginning on September 8 in the esteemed presence of Pujya Gurudevshri, the sacred event served as both an elevating entry point for new seekers and a powerful chance for experienced practitioners to deepen their spiritual practice.

Each dawn stirred to life with the throbbing energy of the Snatra Puja, a celebration glorifying the birth of Tirthankar Bhagwan. Aspirants, hearts brimming with devotion, engaged in the sacred rites of pakshal and puja, giving expression to their reverence through graceful movements of nrutyabhakti. With each passing day, the lady devotees crafted exquisite and intricate gahuli – masterpieces of beauty offered at the lotus feet of the Divine. This tide of devotion swelled to its fullest during the fervent dhun, a resounding chorus of chants extolling the virtues of Param Krupalu Dev. Led into a euphoric outburst of a dance by little devotees, each soul present swayed in unbridled bliss, their spirits ascending as their devotion surged to its radiant crescendo.

In the morning sessions, Pujya Gurudevshri blessed the congregation with an exposition on the concluding portion of the Moksh Dwar of Atmarasi Pandit Banarasidasji’s Natak Samaysaar. He brilliantly explained the thoughts and tendencies of the self-realised, the role of auspicious practices in one’s spiritual journey, the necessary means on the path, who exactly a lethargic being is, how the enlightened soul and the egoist are different, the state and splendour of the self-realised and finally the steps to liberation. Pujya Gurudevshri not only made the path extremely easy to understand, He also infused everyone present with the spirit to pursue the path and attain self-realisation and ultimately liberation.

In the evening sessions, Pujya Gurudevshri expounded on Patrank -816 of Shrimad Rajchandra Vachanamrutji, whose central teaching is that the enlightened ones’ path of turning inward is the remedy for all suffering. He commenced by explaining the rare opportunity of human birth for accelerated spiritual evolution, making the current lethargy seen in people a matter of pity and wonder. Pujya Gurudevshri then dwelt on the four aspects that are a must for understanding the remedy –fruition of great merit, pure intellect, intense detachment, and association of the enlightened. He then masterfully explained the various facets of suffering and concluded the series with guidance on following the path to go within. While possessing great depth, the discourses were remarkably simple to understand – thanks to the unique style of Pujya Gurudevshri of serving spirituality in a manner that even a novice can understand and start applying.

The opening evening unfolded in a charged atmosphere as seekers immersed themselves in a heartfelt offering of bhakti glorifying the Tirthankar Bhagwans. Through a soulful rendition of stavans of 24 Tirthankars, devotees celebrated their virtues, allowing themselves to be uplifted by the spirit of devotion.

A serene sound bath experience helped seekers pause, relax, and turn inward. Enveloped in soothing sounds and sacred vibrations, participants experienced a sense of peace, stillness, and inner purity.

A dynamic chat show explored the journey from outward rituals to inner transformation. Through engaging conversations and reflections, young seekers discovered the necessity of rituals on the spiritual path, using them as a means to seek the eternal.

Little devotees brought the inspiring story of Raja Shrenik to life through a captivating drama. His unwavering devotion and transformation offered a powerful reminder of the heights that sincere love, faith, and surrender can attain.

The celebrations commenced with the beholding of the 14 Swapnas – the divine dreams witnessed by Mother Trishala before the birth of Bhagwan Mahavir. This was followed by a captivating cultural presentation that brought the pious moment of Bhagwan Mahavir’s birth to life. Each and every devotee present got an opportunity to rock the sacred cradle of Bhagwan, thereby deepening a personal bond with the Lord.

The evening resonated with energy as Shri Kumar Chatterjee led devotees through a beautiful musical offering. His melodious renditions created an atmosphere of devotion, leaving hearts immersed in remembrance and gratitude.

On 15th September, the auspicious culmination of Paryushan Mahaparva, the Dome SVP Stadium was immersed in a serene expanse of white as thousands of devotees gathered in reverence. The day commenced with the sacred Snatra Puja and was followed by Pujya Gurudevshri’s moving discourse on forgiveness, setting the spiritual tone for Samvatsari – the pinnacle of inner cleansing and renewal. During the solemn alochana in the afternoon, devotees turned inward with sincerity, acknowledging mistakes committed knowingly and unknowingly, while a genuine spirit of repentance arose from within. With tears rolling down their cheeks, aspirants could feel an inner cleansing occurring. As the compassionate Master gracefully traversed the vast congregation, His benevolent presence evoked heartfelt prayers for forgiveness. In that profoundly sanctified atmosphere, seekers reaffirmed their resolve to live in greater alignment with the teachings of the enlightened ones, holding steadfast to the path of spiritual growth

During the Paryushan Mahaparva, Shri Harshbhai Sanghavi, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Gujarat, joined the festivities on one of the evenings. He launched the 2026 edition of the Power of One initiative, reinforcing the transformative impact of individual action. Shri Harshbhai also unveiled the theme song of Aho Gurudev, the year-long celebrations honouring 60 years of the enlightened existence of Pujya Gurudevshri.

Appreciating the diverse spiritual and social initiatives undertaken under the guidance of Pujya Gurudevshri, Shri Harshbhai acknowledged the significant contribution of Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur towards society and conveyed his support for its ongoing endeavours. As a token of affection, Pujya Gurudevshri presented Shri Harshbhai with a commemorative memento, while Trustees of the Mission felicitated him.

The festival also featured the launch of a book authored by Pujya Gurudevshri, aptly titled ‘The Way Home,’ by Shri Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Minister of Skill, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Government of Maharashtra and his wife Smt Manju Lodha, Chairperson of the Lodha Foundation.

Young hearts jumped with joy as the upcoming editions of the Global Youth Festival at Pune, Dharampur, and Ahmedabad were announced open for registration. Likewise, the children were equally excited as the winter Spiritualtouch retreat was announced.

Throughout the Paryushan Mahaparva celebrations, several avenues were thoughtfully created to enable seekers to connect with the Mission. A beautifully adorned Jinmandir was consecrated, offering devotees the opportunity to venerate Jineshwar Bhagwan. Informative exhibition stalls showcasing Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care, SRMD Divinetouch, SRMD Yoga, SRMD Courses, and Youth activities gave seekers a glimpse into the Mission’s diverse initiatives, while opening meaningful opportunities for them to engage according to their interests and aspirations.

Extending the spirit of Paryushan to young hearts, thousands of children across India joyfully participated in the ‘I Love Paryushan’ workshops held across various cities, exploring the essential tenet of Ahimsa not just as non-violence but as a virtue of love and kindness towards all, through engaging stories and interactive activities.

Further embodying the Mahaparva’s message of compassion and non-violence, 501 animals were rescued from slaughterhouses and given refuge in safe shelters.

Apart from investing precious hours in delivering discourses, Pujya Gurudevshri’s compassion flowed boundlessly as He spent time personally meeting and guiding new seekers daily.

With hearts filled with gratitude and devotion, we bow at the holy feet of Param Krupalu Dev and our beloved Pujya Gurudevshri for this supreme opportunity of the Paryushan Mahaparva. May their grace illuminate our path and guide us towards the eternal bliss of the soul.