Jaisalmer to Host First Jain Chadar Mahotsav

Rajasthan’s desert city of Jaisalmer will host the country’s first Jain Chadar Mahotsav from 6 to 8 March 2026. The three-day religious event will centre on the worship of the 872-year-old garments of Dada Shri Jindatt Suri Maharaj, preserved in the Gyan Bhandar library of the Jain temple in Jaisalmer. Organisers expect participation from senior political leaders, Jain saints and over 30,000 devotees from across India.

Historical Significance of the Sacred Garments

According to the Jaisalmer Jain Trust, the garments date back to Vikram Samvat 1211, when the first Dada Gurudev attained samadhi in Ajmer. It is believed that while his mortal remains were cremated, the garments remained intact. Around 145 years ago, during a severe epidemic in Vikram Samvat 1945, the then Maharawal requested that the garments be brought from Patan in Gujarat to Jaisalmer. Since then, they have been preserved in the temple’s manuscript repository.

The relics include the Chadar, Cholpatta and Muhpatti associated with Dada Shri Jindatt Suri Maharaj, revered within the Khartar Gachchh sect of Jainism.

Participation of Religious and Political Leaders

The festival will be held under the guidance of Khartargachchhadhipati Acharya Jin Maniprabh Surishwar Maharaj. Senior Jain saints, including Jin Manoj Surishwar Maharaj and Punanand Surishwar Maharaj, are expected to attend.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat is scheduled to be present on 6 March. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal are likely to attend on 7 March. Punjab Governor Gulab Chandra Kataria is also expected to join the event.

Three-Day Religious Programme

The Mahotsav will commence with the ceremonial entry of Guru Bhagwants, inauguration rituals and an evening aarti. On the second day, a grand Varghoda procession will carry the 872-year-old Chadar through the city for public darshan. The procession is set to feature elephants, horses, palanquins, tableaux and hundreds of monks.

A theatrical presentation based on Dada Gurudev’s life is also planned. On the concluding day, Acharya and Ganini positions will be conferred, and consecrated materials distributed. A Mumukshu’s diksha ceremony will be organised ahead of the festival.

Important Facts for Exams

• Khartar Gachchh is a prominent sect within the Shvetambara tradition of Jainism.
• Vikram Samvat calendar is approximately 57 years ahead of the Gregorian calendar.
• Gyan Bhandars are traditional Jain manuscript libraries preserving rare texts and relics.
• Jaisalmer is known for its medieval Jain temples built in yellow sandstone.

Preparations and Public Participation

Organisers have begun large-scale preparations, including online registration and accommodation arrangements. The event is projected to be one of the largest Jain religious gatherings in recent years, combining devotional rituals with cultural and community activities in the historic city of Jaisalmer.