Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated by the Jain community commemorating the birth of Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism. It is the most important festival for Jains. Mahavira is the 24th and the last Tirthankara, who preached the essence of life, virtue and non-violence towards all living beings. On Mahavir Jayanthi, Jain temples are decorated with flags. The day of his birth is celebrated in a massive procession around the cities. The jains make offerings of milk, rice, fruit, incense, lamps and water to the poor people that day. All sections of the community participate in a grand procession. Lectures are held to preach the path of virtue.