Meru Trayodashi & Adinath Nirvana Kalyanak 2026

A Sacred Day of Liberation

January 16, 2026, falls on a Friday, marking the observance of two highly significant Jain festivals - Meru Trayodashi and Adinath Nirvana Kalyanak.
In 2025, these sacred occasions were observed on Monday, January 27. Though the calendar date changes each year, the spiritual importance of the day remains timeless.

These festivals commemorate the nirvana (moksha) of Lord Rishabhanatha, also known as Adinath Bhagwan, the first Jain Tirthankara, who attained liberation at Mount Ashtapad.

Who Is Adinath Bhagwan?

Lord Rishabhanatha holds a special place in Jainism as the first Tirthankara of the present time cycle. He is believed to have laid the foundation of human civilization by teaching people essential skills like agriculture, trade, and social order — while guiding them toward self-discipline, renunciation, and spiritual awakening.

His life is a powerful example of balancing worldly responsibilities with spiritual detachment, ultimately leading to liberation.

Significance of Adinath Nirvana Kalyanak

Adinath Nirvana Kalyanak marks the moment when Adinath Bhagwan attained moksha, freeing his soul from the cycle of birth and rebirth. According to Jain scriptures, this divine event took place at Mount Ashtapad, a sacred place revered in Jain tradition.

This day reminds devotees that liberation is possible through:

• Non-violence (Ahimsa)
  

• Truthfulness (Satya)
  

• Self-control (Sanyam)
  

• Detachment (Aparigraha)
  

It is a time to reflect on the soul’s journey toward purity and freedom.

What Is Meru Trayodashi?

Meru Trayodashi is observed on the 13th day (Trayodashi) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha). The festival symbolizes spiritual elevation and the cosmic significance of Mount Meru, which represents stability, enlightenment, and higher consciousness.

On this day, devotees remember the divine ascent of liberated souls and reaffirm their commitment to spiritual growth.

How Is the Day Observed?

Meru Trayodashi and Adinath Nirvana Kalyanak are observed with deep devotion across Jain communities.

Common practices include:

• Fasting or partial fasting
  

• Temple visits and special pujas
  

• Recitation of Jain scriptures and bhajans
  

• Meditation and silence (maun)
  

• Charity, compassion, and self-reflection
  

Many devotees also reflect on their actions, thoughts, and intentions, aiming to align their lives more closely with Jain principles.

A Day of Inner Reflection and Renewal

Unlike festive celebrations filled with external joy, these observances focus on inner awakening. The day encourages simplicity, restraint, and mindfulness — reminding us that true happiness comes from spiritual clarity, not material accumulation.

It is an opportunity to pause, slow down, and reconnect with the values taught by Adinath Bhagwan.

Carrying the Message Forward

As we observe Meru Trayodashi and Adinath Nirvana Kalyanak on Friday, January 16, 2026, we are reminded that liberation is not reserved for a few - it is a path open to all who walk with discipline, compassion, and awareness.

May this sacred day inspire us to practice non-violence in thought and action, reduce attachments, and move steadily toward spiritual progress.