Jain Panchang March 2026: Mahavir Jayanti, Navpad Oli & Chaitra Tithis
March 2026 stands as a pinnacle of spiritual vibrance in the Jain calendar. As the spring season blooms, we transition into the sacred month of Chaitra. This month is globally celebrated by the Jain community for the birth of the light of our era, Lord Mahavira, and the commencement of the rigorous yet rewarding Chaitra Navpad Oli fasts.
The Celebration of Mahavir Jayanti: March 31, 2026
The most anticipated date this month is Tuesday, March 31, 2026, which marks Mahavir Janma Kalyanak. This is the day the 24th Tirthankara, Lord Mahavira, was born in Kundagram. For Jains in India and the NRI diaspora, this day is celebrated with grand processions (Rath Yatra), Abhishek, and lectures on the principles of Ahimsa (Non-violence) and Anekanthavada (Multiplicity of views). In 2026, as this falls on a Tuesday, many families plan community service and blood donation drives to honor the LordтАЩs message of "Live and Let Live."
The Chaitra Navpad Oli: Starting March 23, 2026
Another vital spiritual event is the Chaitra Oli, a nine-day festival of semi-fasting dedicated to the Navpad (nine supreme entities). In 2026, the Oli begins on Monday, March 23 and concludes on Tuesday, March 31 (coinciding with Mahavir Jayanti). During these nine days, devotees perform Ayambil TapaтАФeating only one meal of boiled grains without any spices, salt, oil, or milk products. It is a period of intense detoxification for both the body and the soul.
Key Tithis and Dates in March 2026
Stay updated with these essential dates in the Vikram Samvat 2082 cycle:
- Wednesday, March 4, 2026: Phalguna Purnima. A day of great significance for visiting Shatrunjaya Teerth (Palitana) for the famous Chauri-chhath Yatra.
- Thursday, March 12, 2026: Ashtami (Krishna Paksha). A key day for Hari Tyag and staying away from root vegetables.
- Wednesday, March 18, 2026: Chaitra Amavasya. A day for quiet reflection and ending the dark fortnight of the month.
- Wednesday, March 25, 2026: Bhavana Panchami. A day dedicated to the cultivation of pure thoughts and Bhavas.
Spiritual Preparation for March
March 2026 is a month of high discipline. With the Chaitra Oli and Mahavir Jayanti falling together, it is a rare opportunity to accumulate immense Nirjara (shedding of karmas). Whether you are observing the full Ayambil Oli or simply avoiding green vegetables on the Ashtami (March 12 & 27), every small sacrifice contributes to your spiritual growth in the Vir Nirvan Samvat 2552.
Conclusion
The Jain Panchang for March 2026 is a guide to one of the most powerful months of the year. From the beginning of the Oli fasts to the joyous celebrations of Mahavir Janma Kalyanak on the 31st, March invites us to deepen our faith and practice. May this month bring the light of Lord MahaviraтАЩs wisdom into every home.