MAHARAJA AGRASEN JAYANTI : THE NOBLE RULER

By Anshika Khera

Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti is celebrated every year to honor the birth anniversary of Maharaja Agrasen, the legendary king of Agroha, an ancient city in present-day Haryana. Believed to have lived during the Mahabharata era, Maharaja Agrasen is remembered as a noble ruler who established the principles of equality, compassion, and social welfare. He is regarded as the founder of the Agrawal community, which follows his ideals of fairness and cooperation.

Maharaja Agrasen promoted the idea of non-violence and discouraged animal sacrifice, advocating peaceful living and respect for all beings. His most remarkable contribution was the system of social support he introduced—every household in his kingdom contributed one brick and one coin to help new families settle down. This practice highlighted his vision of collective progress and economic equality.

Agrasen Jayanti is observed on the first day of the Hindu month of Ashwin (usually September–October). On this day, members of the Agrawal and Agrahari communities organize processions, cultural programs, and charitable activities. Temples and community halls are decorated, and devotees pay tribute by remembering his values. The celebration not only honors a great ruler but also reinforces the timeless message of unity, generosity, and social justice that Maharaja Agrasen stood for.