To the Jains, it has a whole different meaning. For them, Diwali is the day when the last of the Jain Tirthankaras, Lord Mahavira, attained nirvana, also known as complete knowledge and enlightenment.

As believed by the sect of Svetambara Jains, Mahavira was conceived in the womb of a Brahmin woman. As Lord Indra grew conscious of the coming of the Tirthankara, he used his powers to carry the ...

Thereafter, the 'Sangha' or the community of His disciples was formed. According to Jainism, Lord Mahavira became the 'Guru' to his first disciple Gautam Swami on this day. Thus this day is celebrated ...

Acharanga Sutra – Manuscript based on the religious teachings of Mahavira Jain. Arthashastra – Treatise on the art of government written by Kautilya, otherwise known as Chanakya, more than two ...