CELEBRATING MAHAVIR JAYANTI

CELEBRATING MAHAVIR JAYANTI

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 61 (Thursday, April 2, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 61 (Thursday, April 2, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E299] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING MAHAVIR JAYANTI ______ HON. SUHAS SUBRAMANYAM of virginia in the house of representatives Thursday, April 2, 2026 Mr. SUBRAMANYAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate Mahavir Jayanti. I include in the Record the following proclamation honoring this holiday and its traditions: Whereas, Mahavir Jayanti honors the birth anniversary of Mahavir Swami, the twenty-fourth Tirthankara of Jainism, and acknowledges the significant contributions of the Jain American community to the United States; and Whereas, Mahavir Swami preached the core principles of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Satya (truthfulness), which continue to inspire people around the globe; and Whereas, millions of Jains worldwide observe Mahavir Jayanti through rituals, reflection, and acts of community service; and Whereas, Jainism has a rich tradition, spanning 2,500 years; and Whereas, there are an estimated 150,000 to 200,000 Jain Americans contributing across fields, including business, education, medicine, the law, the arts, and technology; and Whereas, members of the Jain American community have demonstrated a commitment to public service and philanthropy, establishing hospitals, food banks, and disaster relief efforts to serve people of all backgrounds; and Whereas, Jain Americans have promoted the importance of a strong interfaith dialogue; and Whereas, Mahavir Jayanti provides an opportunity for Americans of all backgrounds to learn more and engage with the history, philosophy, and contributions of the Jain community. I wish all those celebrating a joyous Mahavir Jayanti. ____________________