Rajasthan to Observe 'Ahimsa Day' on May 8

In accordance with the notification No. F/29/Misc./DLB 2000/1394-1614 dated May 18, 2000, issued by the Department of Local Self Governance, Government of Rajasthan, ‘Ahimsa Day’ will be observed across the state on Thursday, May 8, 2025, coinciding with Vaishakh Shukla Ekadashi. This day also marks the punya smriti (death anniversary) of Acharya Devendra Muni, a revered saint of the Shraman Sangh.

On this occasion, a complete ban will be imposed across Rajasthan on the slaughter of animals and the sale and purchase of meat, chicken, and fish. All butcher shops and meat/fish markets will remain closed as a mark of respect for non-violence and to promote the spirit of Ahimsa.

Ramesh Khokhawat, Minister of Shri Tarak Guru Jain Granthalaya, has submitted a formal request to the Udaipur District Collector and Municipal Commissioner, urging strict enforcement of the ban on meat and fish shops within Udaipur city limits. He further appealed that clear instructions be issued to relevant officers, and action should be taken against violators. Additionally, the letter requests the local police to ensure compliance and instruct meat vendors to keep their establishments closed.

It is noteworthy that Acharya Devendra Muni is the first saint of the Jain community in whose memory the Rajasthan Government has issued such a directive. This year marks the 26th anniversary of his passing.

Acharya Devendra Muni was born in the Wardiya community of Udaipur and took Jain Bhagwati initiation at the young age of nine. He authored and edited over 400 books, setting new standards in Jain literature. For seven decades, he traveled extensively across India, spreading messages of non-violence and de-addiction, guiding lakhs of followers. As the Acharya of over 1,200 monks and nuns of the Shraman Sangh, he brought immense prestige to Udaipur. He attained samadhi in 1999, and his memorial, known as ‘Devendra Dham’, is located in Udaipur.