Jaisalmer Prepares for Landmark Jain Chadar Mahotsav in 2026
The historic city of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan is set to host the country's inaugural Chadar Mahotsav of the Jain community from March 6 to 8, 2026. This unique festival will center on the worship and prayers offered to the 872-year-old garments of Dada Shri Jindatt Suri Maharaj, which are preserved in the library of Jaisalmer's Jain temple.
High-Profile Attendees and Distinguished Guests
The event has attracted significant political and spiritual attention. RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat is scheduled to attend as chief guest on March 6. The following day, March 7, will see the participation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister for Art, Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal. On March 8, Punjab Governor Gulab Chandra Kataria is set to join the programme.
Organisers anticipate an impressive gathering, including several prominent personalities, ministers from various states, more than 150 Jain saints from across the nation, and over 30,000 devotees. The festival is being coordinated under the guidance of Khartargachchhadhipati Acharya Jin Maniprabh Surishwar Maharaj, who leads the specially formed Dada Shri Jindatt Suri Chadar Mahotsav Committee.
Historical Significance of the Sacred Garments
Jaisalmer Jain Trust President Mahendsingh Bhansali provided fascinating historical context about the garments. He explained that in VS 1211, following the first Dada Gurudev's departure to heaven in Ajmer, the garments remained miraculously intact during cremation. While the body dissolved in the fire, the garments did not burn, establishing their sacred status.
Bhansali further detailed that approximately 145 years ago, in VS 1945, during a devastating epidemic that claimed many lives, the then Maharawal requested that the garments be brought from Patan in Gujarat to Jaisalmer. Since that time, they have been carefully preserved in Jaisalmer's Gyan Bhandar, awaiting this special celebration.
Three-Day Festival Programme Details
The festival will unfold over three days from Phalgun Sudi Teej to Panchami (March 6-8, 2026), featuring a rich schedule of religious and cultural events:
- Day 1 (March 6): The programme begins with the auspicious entry of Guru Bhagwants, inauguration of nagaris, a religious assembly, and an evening aarti ceremony.
- Day 2 (March 7): A grand Varghoda procession will be organized, during which Dada Jindatt Suri Maharaj's 872-year-old Chadar Cholpatta Muhpatti will be taken around the city for public darshan. This spectacular procession is expected to include elephants, horses, palanquins, tableaux, hundreds of Guru Bhagwants, and thousands of devotees. A dramatic presentation based on Dada Gurudev's life story is also planned.
- Day 3 (March 8): The final day will feature the conferment of Acharya and Ganini positions, distribution of consecrated materials, and other ceremonial activities.
Additionally, a Mumukshu's diksha (initiation) ceremony will be held before the festival commences. Online registration for participation and accommodation has already begun, allowing devotees to plan their visit well in advance.
Spiritual Leadership and Community Participation
The festival will be graced by the presence of eminent Jain spiritual leaders including Khartargachchhadhipati Acharya Jin Maniprabh Surishwar Maharaj, Jin Manoj Surishwar Maharaj, and Punanand Surishwar Maharaj. Their guidance and participation underscore the religious significance of this event for the Jain community nationwide.
As preparations intensify, Jaisalmer is transforming into a hub of spiritual activity, with organizers working diligently to ensure the successful execution of this historic celebration that honors both ancient traditions and contemporary devotion.
