Rajasthan’s historic desert city Jaisalmer will host the country’s first-ever Jain Chadar Mahotsav from March 6 to March 8, 2026. The three-day religious festival will focus on the worship of 872-year-old sacred garments of Dada Shri Jindatt Suri Maharaj, preserved in the Gyan Bhandar manuscript library of a Jain temple in Jaisalmer.
Organisers expect participation from over 30,000 devotees, senior Jain saints, and prominent political leaders from across India, making it one of the largest Jain religious events in recent years.
Historical Significance of the Sacred Jain Relics
According to the Jaisalmer Jain Trust, the sacred garments date back to Vikram Samvat 1211, when Dada Shri Jindatt Suri Maharaj attained samadhi in Ajmer. It is believed that while his mortal remains were cremated, the garments remained intact, enhancing their spiritual significance.
Around 145 years ago, during a severe epidemic in Vikram Samvat 1945, the then Maharawal of Jaisalmer requested that the relics be brought from Patan in Gujarat to Jaisalmer. Since then, they have been preserved in the temple’s manuscript repository known as Gyan Bhandar.
The relics include the Chadar, Cholpatta, and Muhpatti, revered by followers of the Khartar Gachchh sect of Jainism.
Participation of Religious and Political Leaders
The Jain Chadar Mahotsav will be organised under the guidance of Khartargachchhadhipati Acharya Jin Maniprabh Surishwar Maharaj. Senior Jain saints such as Jin Manoj Surishwar Maharaj and Punanand Surishwar Maharaj are expected to attend.
Three-Day Religious and Cultural Programme
The festival will begin 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 Jaisalmer for public darshan, featuring elephants, horses, palanquins, tableaux, and hundreds of monks.
A theatrical presentation on the life of Dada Gurudev will also be staged. On the final day, Acharya and Ganini positions will be conferred, consecrated materials distributed, and a Mumukshu diksha ceremony organised.
Important Facts for Competitive Exams
- Khartar Gachchh is a major sect of Shvetambara Jainism.
- Vikram Samvat calendar is approximately 57 years ahead of the Gregorian calendar.
- Gyan Bhandars ar