The Historical Significance of Good Friday – Dr. Shrinivas Mahawar 

Udaipur  – Under the aegis of the 'Janmat Manch' (Public Opinion Forum), a discussion was held regarding the historical significance of Good Friday. On this occasion, Dr. Shrinivas Mahawar, the founder and president of the Janmat Manch, stated:
Good Friday is a major festival in the Christian faith, observed as a day of mourning to commemorate the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and his crucifixion. This day falls on the Friday preceding Easter Sunday; this year, it will be observed with solemnity on April 3rd. It is believed that Jesus sacrificed his life for the redemption of humanity's sins.
Jesus Christ was born approximately 4–6 BC in Bethlehem, a town located in Palestine (now Israel). His mother's name was Mary, and his father's name was Joseph. According to the Bible and Christian scriptures, Jesus Christ was conceived in Mary's womb through the Holy Spirit.
During the reign of the Roman Emperor Tiberius, Jesus Christ was crucified by Pontius Pilate—the Roman Governor of Judea—acting under pressure from the Jewish religious leaders in Jerusalem. He was charged with false accusations of sedition and of claiming to be the "King of the Jews."
Key Reasons for the Crucifixion:
• Resentment of Religious Leaders: Jesus Christ challenged established religious norms and proclaimed himself to be the Son of God—an act that the Jewish leaders deemed to be blasphemy.
• Political Threat: He was accused of inciting rebellion among the Jewish people and of claiming the title of "King," thereby posing a challenge to the Roman Empire.
• Administrative Pressure: The Roman Governor, Pontius Pilate, initially intended to release him; however, yielding to pressure from the crowd and the Jewish leaders, he ultimately ordered his crucifixion. Why is it called "Good"? This day is referred to as "Good" because, despite being a sorrowful occasion, it is regarded within Christianity as the beginning of Jesus' supreme sacrifice, love, and the redemption of humanity. It is also known as 'Holy Friday,' 'Great Friday,' or 'Black Friday.'
On this day, followers of Christianity participate in special prayer services at churches, observe a fast, and reflect upon the final messages of Jesus.
Shirish Nath Mathur, the Secretary of the forum, explained that Jesus Christ was crucified by Roman authorities—acting under pressure from Jewish leaders—at a place called Calvary in Jerusalem.
Assistant Professor Azad Meena noted that Jesus Christ delivered a message aimed at saving humanity from sin and guiding people onto the path of righteousness—a mission for which he willingly accepted a humiliating death (crucifixion).
Although this day is sorrowful, it is nonetheless termed "Good" because it is considered a symbol of the salvation of the human race and the ultimate triumph of God's love.
Speaking on this occasion, Assistant Professors Hemant Kumar Damor and Dharmendra Kumar Verma stated:
"His life and teachings were grounded in love, forgiveness, and selfless service—principles that illuminate the path to liberation from sin and eternal life for all of humanity. Through his profound humanity, he empathized with the suffering of all people and, by offering his own sacrifice, set a supreme example of universal brotherhood."
The message of Jesus Christ is not intended for any single religion or sect, but rather for the welfare of all of humanity.