Paryushana

Paryushana (Pajjusana) is the most important annual holy event for Jains and is usually celebrated in August or September in Lunisolar Hindu calendar, the Samvatsari Day celebrated on Bhadrapad Shukla 5 by both Shwetambar and Digambar sects. Jains increase their level of spiritual intensity using fasting and prayer/meditation. The five main vows of Jainism are emphasized during this time. Followers are encouraged to practice according to their ability and desires. The duration of Paryushana is 8 days for Śvētāmbara Jains and 10 days for Jains belonging to the Digambara sect. It is called as Das Lakshana by Digambar Jains, a 10-day spiritual festival that starts when Paryushan of Śvētāmbara ends, on the Samvatsari. The celebration of Samvatsari or Kshamavani (forgiveness) is the same for both the sects. This festival is important for Jains since it only comes once in a year. Jain festivals are characterized by renunciation, austerities, study of the scriptures, repetition of holy hymns, meditation & expressing devotion for the Paramatma. Everyday some or the other Tap is followed. In any tap, chauvihar is a must ie, No food or water after sunset until Navkarsi (48 minutes after sunrise) next day. Not only underground vegetables but consuming of fresh vegetables & fruits is also prohibited during Paryushan. Paryushana means "abiding and coming together". It is a time when the Jains take on vows of austerities, study and fasting. The original word for Paryushan is 'Pajjusan'. References are found in the Jain scriptures-Kalpa Sutra, Samvaayang Sutra, Nishith Sutra & Nishith Bhashya Churni. Preachings of Lord Mahavir were orally compiled into Agams by his disciples. Agams are divided into 12 & are called the Anga Agam - 11 Angas & 14 Pūrvas (12th Anga Drstivada is lost). However a detailed table of contents of Drstivada has survived in the 4th Anga Samavāyānga & Nandīsūtra. Some portions hv survived in Satkhandāgama & Kasāyaprabhrta as well.