Mahavira, originally named Vardhamāna and born circa 599 BCE in customary princely surroundings, chose at age 30 to forsake his royal life in pursuit of spiritual awakening. Embracing a path of profound austerity, he renounced worldly attachments—including clothing, possessions, and social status—and embarked on a rigorous ascetic regimen filled with meditation, fasting, and deep self-discipline. After 12 years of unwavering commitment, he achieved Kevala Jñāna, attaining omniscience and earning the title of Jina (Conqueror). For the next four decades, he traveled, preached, and established the core tenets of Jainism—nonviolence (ahimsa), truthfulness, non-stealing, chastity, and non-possessiveness—shaping an enduring spiritual legacy. His life culminated in liberation (moksha) at Pawapuri around 527 BCE, an event that Jains honor during Diwali. Mahavira’s transformative journey from princely origins to enlightened teacher remains a profound testament to spiritual resolve and moral clarity.