New Delhi, April 14 : President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and many others on Thursday extended greetings on Mahavir Jayanti. Modi recalled the noble teachings of Bhagwan Mahavir, especially the emphasis on peace, compassion and brotherhood. “Greetings on the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti. The eternal teachings of Bhagwan Mahavir and the emphasis on Jeev Daya can help build a just and compassionate society. May the blessings of Bhagwan Mahavir further the spirit of peace and brotherhood in our society,” the Prime Minister wrote on Twitter. President Ram Nath Kovind too asked people to follow the principles of Lord Mahavir. “Happy Mahavir Jayanti to all the countrymen, especially to the people of Jain comm ty. Lord Mahavir was the true embodiment of non-violence. He taught humanity the truth and renunciation. Following his principles, I wish we worked for global peace and mutual harmony,” Kovind said in a tweet. Mahavira, also known as Vardhamana, was the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. He was the spiritual successor of the Parshvanatha. He was born in the early part of the 6th century. Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated by the Jain comm ty to observe peace, harmony and to spread the teachings of Mahavira. Jainism lays focuses on the concept that no or minimal harm is brought to living creatures. ASU GNK 1143