Jain Paryushan festival begins today

KATHMANDU: Jain Paryushan, the eight-day Jain festival, also known as 'Paryushan Parva', has begun today, marking a period of significant spiritual renewal and self-discipline with a focus on dietary practices for the Jain community.

Celebrated annually in August or September, this year, the festival runs from September 1 to 8.

Paryushan, meaning 'coming together' or 'abiding', is a time of intense spiritual activity. Many Jains observe fasts, ranging from one day to several weeks, consuming only boiled water during specific times. Devotees also engage in prayer, meditation, and the recitation of Jain scriptures.

A key aspect of the festival is the emphasis on forgiveness. Jains seek forgiveness from others for any wrongs committed during the year, often exchanging the phrase "Micchami Dukkadam" (May all my faults be forgiven).

The festival concludes with Samvatsari, the Day of Universal Forgiveness, where rituals of introspection and forgiveness are performed, fostering a sense of reconciliation and peace within the community.