Between August and September, millions seek inner peace, spiritual cleansing, and renewal—because Paryushan isn’t just a festival; it’s a journey 🌿
Paryushan Parv is one of the most sacred festivals in Jainism, celebrated with deep spiritual intention and profound self-reflection. But why is Paryushan Parv celebrated, and what makes it so transformative for millions of Jains around the world?
At its core, Paryushan is a period of purification—of mind, body, and soul. Derived from the Sanskrit term “Pari+Upshamana,” meaning “to suppress passions,” the festival invites devotees to slow down, detach from material distractions, and focus inwardly on spiritual elevation.
🕊️ The Significance of Paryushan
Paryushan signifies the victory of the soul over karma. It’s a time when Jains intensify their practice of the five major vows: non-violence (Ahimsa), truth (Satya), non-stealing (Asteya), celibacy (Brahmacharya), and non-possessiveness (Aparigraha). Temples become epicenters of prayer and discourse, and daily life is re-centered on self-discipline and compassion.
🙏 Jain Forgiveness Festival: Asking and Offering True Forgiveness
Perhaps the most moving element of Paryushan is the ritual of “Micchami Dukkadam” (in Shwetambara) or “Khamat Khamna” (in Digambara), where individuals humbly seek forgiveness from others for any intentional or unintentional harm caused during the year. This isn’t symbolic—it’s an active practice of ego dissolution and universal love.
🍃 The Fasting Rules: Spiritual Cleanse from Within
Fasting during Paryushan isn’t about physical sacrifice—it’s about reducing karmic intake and sharpening spiritual awareness. While some observe partial fasting (e.g., eating before sunset or abstaining from certain foods), others take on complete fasts for the entire 8 or 10 days. Even children and elderly adapt fasting practices to their capacity, all aimed at building mindfulness.
📖 Scriptural Wisdom
For Śvetāmbara Jains, the Kalpasutra—a sacred Jain text detailing the life of Lord Mahavira and codes for monastic conduct—is publicly read during this period. Digambara Jains focus on the Tattvartha Sutra, a profound text that encapsulates Jain philosophy and cosmology.
📌 The “Paryushan significance” is not just cultural—it’s a deeply philosophical exercise in self-purification, repentance, and transformation.
🧘♀️ Shwetambara vs Digambara: Unity in Diversity
Although both sects observe Paryushan, the duration and some practices differ:
- Shwetambaras celebrate it for 8 days, culminating in Samvatsari (the grand forgiveness day).
- Digambaras observe Das Lakshan Parva over 10 days, focusing each day on one spiritual virtue like forgiveness, humility, and self-restraint.
Despite these variations, the soul of Paryushan remains universal—introspection, purification, and liberation.
So, why is Paryushan Parv celebrated? Because it’s a spiritual reset—an invitation to let go of grudges, silence the noise, and reconnect with the eternal truth within.
Why Is Paryushan Parv Celebrated?
Paryushan Parv is celebrated as the most sacred and spiritually transformative festival in Jainism. Observed annually between August and September, this Jain festival of forgiveness invites followers to pause their daily lives and embark on an inner journey of self-discipline, introspection, and moral renewal.
At its core, the answer to why Paryushan Parv is celebrated lies in one goal: purifying the soul (ātma shuddhi) by shedding accumulated karmas. Unlike other religious celebrations marked by external grandeur, Paryushan focuses on deep internal transformation through fasting (tapas), self-study (svādhyāya), meditation (dhyāna), and forgiveness (kṣamā).
🌼 Key Spiritual Goals of Paryushan:
1. Self-Purification Through Fasting and Meditation
Fasting during Paryushan, ranging from skipping a single meal to full Atthai Tap (8-day fasting), is not about self-denial but self-purification. Through tapas (austerity), Jains attempt to burn off negative karmas and detach from bodily desires—paving the way for a lighter, freer soul. Meditation and mantra chanting (like Namokar Mantra) accompany the fast, aiding in focus and spiritual awakening.
2. Forgiveness: The Heart of Jain Dharma
Paryushan is rightly called the Jain forgiveness festival, as it culminates with the powerful tradition of seeking and granting forgiveness.
- Shwetambara Jains observe Samvatsari, concluding with the humble phrase: “Michhami Dukkadam”—meaning, “If I have hurt you knowingly or unknowingly, I ask for your forgiveness.”
- Digambara Jains conclude Dashalakshan with Uttam Kshama Bhavana, reflecting on supreme forgiveness and letting go of grudges.
This act not only heals relationships but also helps in the spiritual release of karmic bonds tied to hatred and ego.
3. Reaffirming the Jain Ethical Vows (Mahavratas)
Paryushan is also a time to reaffirm the five cardinal vows of Jainism:
- Ahimsa (Non-violence)
- Satya (Truth)
- Asteya (Non-stealing)
- Brahmacharya (Celibacy/Chastity)
- Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness)
During these sacred days, Jains strive to live these principles with utmost sincerity—practicing vegetarianism more strictly, minimizing harm to even the tiniest organisms, and letting go of material attachments.
🕉️ In summary, Paryushan is not just a religious observance—it’s a sacred reminder that true celebration comes through spiritual elevation. Through fasting, forgiveness, and deep reflection, Paryushan offers every Jain the opportunity to align closer with the ultimate goal of moksha—liberation of the soul.
What Is Paryushan Parv?
Paryushan Parv is the most sacred Jain festival—observed for 8 days by Śvetāmbara Jains and 10 days as Das-Lakshana by Digambara Jains—focused on intense fasting, prayer, scripture study, and seeking forgiveness (Samvatsari) in order to cleanse soul and karma.
Celebrated between August and September (Bhadrapada month), Paryushan is the spiritual climax of the Jain calendar. It’s a time when devotees withdraw from worldly attachments and realign with Jain ethical principles: non-violence (Ahimsa), truth (Satya), non-stealing (Asteya), celibacy (Brahmacharya), and non-possessiveness (Aparigraha).
Origin and Meaning:
The word “Paryushan” derives from “Pari” (all around) and “Ushan” (to burn/purify), symbolizing the burning away of karmic impurities through penance and restraint.
Core Practices:
- Śvetāmbara Jains: Celebrate 8 days ending with Samvatsari, the Great Day of Forgiveness.
- Digambara Jains: Celebrate 10 days of Das-Lakshana Dharma, each day devoted to a core virtue (e.g., forgiveness, humility, truth).
🧘 Purpose of Paryushan — Reflection, Atonement & Inner Peace
Paryushan isn’t merely about rituals—it’s an inward journey that purifies both the mind and soul. Rooted in ancient Jain philosophy, it acts as an annual reset for one’s spiritual progress.
🌿 Spiritual Significance: Purification of Mind and Soul
Paryushan is observed as a time for deep introspection, where Jains let go of worldly attachments and focus on shedding karmic bonds. The fasts, meditations, and scriptural readings aren’t mere customs—they are spiritual tools to dissolve inner impurities.
As Shrimad Rajchandra put it, “To renounce, to reflect, to forgive—this is true dharma.”
The aim is to reduce passions like anger, pride, deceit, and greed, thereby allowing the soul to ascend on the path of liberation (moksha).
📖 Renewed Connection with Lord Mahavira’s Teachings
At the heart of Paryushan lies the revival of Lord Mahavira’s core messages. His teachings, preserved in the Jain Agamas and texts like the Kalpasutra and Tattvartha Sutra, stress self-discipline, compassion, and spiritual elevation.
Daily pravachans (discourses) during Paryushan help reconnect the laity to these values, often drawing lessons from Mahavira’s life. For both Shwetambara and Digambara traditions, it’s a time to reflect on the 24 Tirthankaras and the ideals they embodied.
🌀 Emphasis on the Five Vows (Mahavratas)
The five pillars practiced intensively during Paryushan are:
- Ahimsa (Nonviolence): Not just in action but in thought and speech. Many Jains avoid root vegetables to minimize harm to micro-organisms.
- Satya (Truth): Observing truthfulness in all interactions.
- Asteya (Non-stealing): Cultivating honesty and integrity.
- Brahmacharya (Celibacy or Chastity): Practicing restraint, especially for ascetics.
- Aparigraha (Non-possession): Letting go of material and emotional attachments.
These vows aren’t abstract—they’re lived. Householders may modify them into Anuvratas (small vows), while monks and nuns follow them in their purest form.
“Paryushan offers the grand entrance to liberation through forgiveness.”
🌱 Personal Insight:
“My family stopped eating root vegetables for the first time during Paryushan—an unexpected lesson in non-violence that changed my diet year-round.”
The 8‑Day vs 10‑Day Celebration Explained
Śvetāmbara (8 Days) vs. Digambara (10 Days): Two Paths, One Purpose
Paryushan is observed differently by the two major Jain sects—Śvetāmbara and Digambara—but the soul of the celebration remains unified: self-discipline, reflection, and forgiveness.
- Śvetāmbara Jains celebrate Paryushan for 8 days, culminating in Samvatsari, the grand day of atonement and universal forgiveness.
- Digambara Jains observe a 10-day festival called Das Lakshana Parva, each day dedicated to a specific virtue (like forgiveness, humility, truth, and celibacy).
Both traditions encourage austerity, increased scriptural study, and vows of self-restraint, but they differ in length and focus.
Why 8 or 10 Days? Rooted in Monsoon Retreats & Jain Texts
Historically, Jain monks and nuns would pause their wanderings during Chaturmaas (the four-month monsoon retreat) to avoid harming tiny living beings that flourish during the rains.
Paryushan was born during this season as an intense spiritual retreat for both ascetics and lay followers.
- Śvetāmbaras draw from texts like the Kalpa Sūtra, which narrates Mahavira’s life and teachings.
- Digambaras follow the Tattvartha Sutra and Shastras, dedicating each day to a core tenet of spiritual progress.
The 8/10-day structure isn’t arbitrary—it’s aligned with ancient scriptures and spiritual pacing set by the Jain Acharyas (monastic leaders).
Key Differences: Texts, Fasting, and the Final Day
| Feature | Śvetāmbara Paryushan | Digambara Das Lakshana Parva |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 8 Days | 10 Days |
| Core Texts | Kalpa Sūtra | Tattvartha Sutra, Das Dharma |
| Daily Focus | Reflection, fasting, rituals | One virtue per day (e.g., Kshama) |
| Main Day | Samvatsari (Day 8) | Kshamavani (Day 10) |
| Atonement Practice | Michhami Dukkadam (asking forgiveness) | Kshamavani Diwas (Forgiveness Day) |
| Fasting | From partial to complete | Often more austere and rigorous |
🧘 How to Choose Your Observance Level
You don’t have to fast for 8 or 10 days to experience Paryushan deeply. Many lay Jains:
- Fast only on the first and last day
- Choose “Ekasana” (one meal a day) or avoid root vegetables
- Focus on spiritual readings and prayer sessions
- Practice forgiveness, silence, or reduced consumption of media
✨ Your capacity matters—what counts most is intent and sincerity.
🍽️ Common Practices & Rules During Paryushan
🧘♂️ Fasting Styles: Tivihar, Chauvihar, Aayambil & More
Fasting is central to Paryushan and is practiced in varying intensities based on individual ability and intent.
- Tivihar: No solid food, but boiled water is allowed throughout the day.
- Chauvihar: No food or water after sunset until sunrise the next day.
- Aayambil: One meal per day, consisting of bland food without salt, oil, dairy, or sweets.
- Ekasana: Eating once a day (before sunset) without indulgence.
- Upvaas: Complete fast without food and sometimes without water.
Each type of fast serves a unique purpose—from detoxification of the body to the cleansing of karmic impurities.
✅ Ease Level of Fasting Types
| Fasting Style | Description | Ease Level |
|—————|————-|————|
| Aayambil | One tasteless meal/day | 🟢 Easy–Moderate |
| Ekasana | One simple meal before sunset | 🟢 Moderate |
| Tivihar | No food, only boiled water | 🟡 Challenging |
| Chauvihar | No food or water after sunset | 🟡 Challenging |
| Upvaas | Complete abstinence | 🔴 Difficult |
🥦 Diet Restrictions: A Lesson in Ahimsa
During Paryushan, dietary discipline reflects a commitment to non-violence (ahimsa). Jains strictly avoid:
- Root vegetables (e.g., potatoes, onions, garlic): harvesting kills entire plants and micro-organisms in the soil.
- Green leafy vegetables: higher chances of microbial life during monsoon.
- Spices and strong-tasting condiments that incite cravings or attachment.
This diet purifies not just the body but also the intent behind eating. It fosters mindfulness in everyday consumption.
🧎♀️ The Pratikraman Ritual: Forgiveness in Practice
Pratikraman (literally “to return”) is a core spiritual ritual performed daily, often in the evening. It involves:
- Introspection over one’s actions
- Seeking forgiveness from all living beings
- Recitation of sacred texts and chants
Through this, Jains aim to shed accumulated karmas and reaffirm their commitment to ethical living.
📚 Temple Lectures, Scripture Reading & Seva
During Paryushan, Jain temples become hubs of spiritual activity:
- Daily pravachans (lectures) explaining scriptures and moral conduct
- Scripture readings like the Kalpa Sūtra (Śvetāmbara) or Tattvartha Sutra (Digambara)
- Charity and service (seva) to monks, animals, and the needy is highly encouraged
This collective participation enriches community ties and deepens individual spiritual growth.
💬 “Self-control is not punishment—it’s spiritual empowerment.”
🙏 Samvatsari: The Culmination of Forgiveness
As Paryushan reaches its crescendo, the Jain community observes one of its most profound days—Samvatsari for Śvetāmbaras and Kshamavani for Digambaras. This isn’t just the conclusion of a religious festival—it’s a universal call to cleanse the soul, seek forgiveness, and reset karmic debts.
🌿 What is Samvatsari and Why Is It Critical?
Samvatsari, meaning “annual day” in Sanskrit, is the final day of Paryushan for Śvetāmbara Jains. It’s a day dedicated entirely to Pratikraman—a ritual of reflection, confession, and repentance. Through this, Jains look inward to acknowledge any harm caused by thoughts, words, or actions over the past year.
For Digambaras, Kshamavani Parva (celebrated a few days later) holds similar significance. While the calendar may differ, the spiritual intent remains aligned—to clean the slate and begin anew.
Paryushan is more than fasting—Samvatsari represents the very essence of the Jain forgiveness festival.
🕊️ The Power of “Micchami Dukkadam”
At the heart of Samvatsari is a humble yet potent phrase:
“Micchāmi Dukkaḍaṃ” – “May my misdeeds be inconsequential.”
This ancient Prakrit expression is shared widely—among family, friends, colleagues, and even strangers. It’s a sincere request: If I have hurt you knowingly or unknowingly, please forgive me. In return, people often respond with the same phrase, creating a circle of healing.
💬 Modern Resonance:
In an age of conflict and digital misunderstandings, this annual ritual of seeking and offering forgiveness is more relevant than ever.
♻️ Resetting Karma: Year-Round Relevance
While Samvatsari is observed annually, its spirit extends far beyond a single day. Jains believe this act of forgiveness reduces ghātiyā karmas (destructive karmas), thus purifying the soul for future liberation.
Some families even keep a “Karma Jar” at home—each slip inside records an act of anger, jealousy, or ego. On Samvatsari, these slips are read aloud and burned, symbolizing release.
🔄 Spiritual Hack:
You don’t have to be Jain to adopt the practice of an annual forgiveness reset. Let go of grudges—liberate yourself.
🔔 Key Takeaway:
Samvatsari isn’t just about seeking forgiveness—it’s a declaration of inner peace. In a world that often forgets to pause, this day teaches us to stop, reflect, and reconnect—with ourselves and others.
🕊️ So this Paryushan, whether you’re Jain or not—take a moment to whisper Micchāmi Dukkaḍaṃ. Someone out there needs to hear it.
🌍 Broader Impact: Non‑Jains and Modern Application
Though rooted in Jain philosophy, Paryushan’s messages of forgiveness, self-discipline, and introspection resonate far beyond the community. In an age of digital noise and burnout, its values are more relevant than ever.
✨ Why Non-Jains Are Embracing It
- Universal Values: The core of Paryushan—truth, non-violence, and atonement—transcends religious identity. Forgiveness isn’t just a virtue, it’s a healing tool.
- Emotional Wellness: As mental health takes center stage globally, many are recognizing that practices like Pratikraman (reflecting on one’s actions) echo cognitive behavioral techniques.
- Digital Minimalism: The Jain emphasis on detachment and minimalism inspires modern-day digital detox movements.
🏫 Paryushan in Schools & Workplaces
- Corporate Mindfulness: Companies now host Paryushan-inspired wellness weeks where employees focus on gratitude, forgiveness, and stress management.
- Interfaith Dialogues: Jain temples often invite people of all backgrounds to attend lectures and participate in rituals—turning Paryushan into a cultural bridge.
🧘♀️ “Attending a Paryushan talk led me to start saying ‘Micchami Dukkadam’ in everyday life—not just once a year.”
— A non-Jain participant at an interfaith gathering
🤝 Community Examples
- Open House Initiatives: In cities like London, Toronto, and Mumbai, Jain organizations host community-wide forgiveness events and free plant-based food stalls during the festival.
- Social Media Movements: Hashtags like #MicchamiDukkadam and #ForgivenessDay trend globally, with influencers sharing personal stories tied to Paryushan.
❓ FAQs About Paryushan Parv
🔹 What is the purpose of Paryushan?
Paryushan is a sacred Jain festival focused on spiritual upliftment through fasting, self-discipline, and forgiveness. Its core aim is purification of the soul by shedding karmas through introspection, penance, and non-violence.
🔹 Why is Paryushan 8 days or 10 days?
The duration differs by Jain sects:
- Śvetāmbara Jains observe 8 days, culminating in Samvatsari (Forgiveness Day).
- Digambara Jains observe 10 days, ending in Kshamavani.
These lengths are based on different ancient texts and monsoon-related timings during Chaturmaas (the holy four months of rain).
🔹 What are the rules of Paryushan?
Key rules and practices include:
- Strict vegetarianism with no root vegetables, green leafy veggies, or fermented foods.
- Fasting or eating one meal (Aayambil) per day.
- Daily Pratikraman: repentance, self-review, and seeking forgiveness.
- Avoiding violence, lies, and gossip, even in thought and speech.
- Engaging in scripture reading, charity, and meditation.
🔹 How long is Jain fasting?
Fasting varies based on personal capacity:
- Partial fasting: Eating once a day (Ekasana) or a special Aayambil meal.
- Complete fasting: No food, sometimes no water, for 1 to 8+ days.
Some ascetics even observe Varsitap, a year-long alternating day fast. Most lay Jains fast anywhere between 1 to 8 days during Paryushan.
🔹 Do we wish Happy Paryushan to others?
Traditionally, the greeting is more reflective than celebratory. Jains say:
“Micchami Dukkadam” — meaning “May my faults be forgiven.”
You may say “Happy Paryushan” respectfully, but it’s better to use “Micchami Dukkadam” to honor the spiritual tone of the festival.
📜 Timeline: Evolution of Paryushan Through History
From Forests to Fiber Optics: The Journey of Paryushan
Paryushan’s origin traces back over 2,500 years, rooted in the rhythms of nature and monastic discipline. What began as a practical pause during India’s monsoon for Jain monks has evolved into one of the most spiritually charged festivals for millions worldwide.
🧭 Ancient Beginnings (6th Century BCE – 2nd Century CE)
- Mahavira’s era: Monks practiced Chaturmaas—a four-month stationary retreat during monsoons, avoiding harm to micro-organisms during travel.
- The last 8–10 days became a time for deeper reflection, laying the groundwork for Paryushan.
📚 Medieval Formalization (3rd – 13th Century)
- Scriptures like the Kalpasutra gained prominence, publicly recited during Paryushan.
- Distinctions emerged:
- Sthanakvasi & Terapanthi Jains follow 8 days
- Deravasi Jains observe 10 days of Das Lakshan Dharma
🏘️ Community-Centric Practices (14th – 20th Century)
- Fasting, lectures, and rituals moved from forest settings into community upashrayas and homes.
- Regional flavors took hold:
- Gujarat: Aayambil bhojan, Pratikraman in homes.
- Rajasthan: Elaborate temple decorations, youth-led events.
- Jain diasporas in East Africa and UK introduced interfaith dialogues during Paryushan.
🌐 Modern Day (21st Century Onward)
- Online pratikramans, YouTube lectures, Zoom kshamavani calls
- Jain apps offer fasting trackers and forgiveness reminders
- Youth across the USA, Canada, and Australia participate through digital sadhanas and community seva events
🪷 Cultural Note:
Despite a common foundation, the festival reflects Jainism’s plurality—from ornate Derasar observances in Ahmedabad to modest meditation circles in New Jersey.
💡 Why Paryushan Still Matters in 2025
In an age of relentless screen time, digital distractions, and hyper-productivity, Paryushan offers a pause—a spiritual Ctrl+Alt+Delete.
This centuries-old Jain festival is not just a religious observance; it’s a recalibration of the soul, still deeply relevant today:
🧠 Mental & Emotional Detox
More therapists and wellness coaches are recognizing the power of forgiveness, self-discipline, and minimalism—all core values of Paryushan. Practices like Pratikraman (introspective repentance) mirror modern cognitive behavioral strategies for emotional healing.
🌱 Youth Movements & Eco-Awareness
Across Jain communities globally, children and teens are taking the lead in:
- Organizing charity drives
- Distributing eco-friendly kits
- Hosting seed-planting events
- Practicing mindful fasting and journaling their reflections
These acts show how ancient rituals are inspiring Gen Z and Gen Alpha to live consciously.
🕊️ Relevance Beyond Religion
Non-Jains increasingly resonate with Paryushan’s essence:
- Letting go of grudges
- Seeking forgiveness (Micchami Dukkadam)
- Reconnecting with values of non-violence and truth
In a divided world, Paryushan serves as a soft power movement for empathy and peace—one that transcends spiritual boundaries.
🏁 Conclusion: A Festival Worth Understanding & Embracing
Paryushan isn’t just a religious observance—it’s a spiritual technology for the soul.
Rooted in nonviolence, introspection, and forgiveness, its practices offer timeless tools for anyone seeking inner peace and mindful living.
Whether you’re Jain or not, the values it promotes are universal:
- Reflect before reacting
- Forgive without conditions
- Live consciously, consume mindfully
- Say “Micchami Dukkadam” — “May I be forgiven” — and mean it
In a noisy world, Paryushan teaches us the art of silent strength.
🙏 Ready to experience the peace yourself?
📿 Join your local Jain temple or
🌐 Attend an online Dharmashala during the next Paryushan Parv.
No matter your faith, you’ll walk away lighter.
Micchami Dukkadam. 💛
