What is 'Pratikraman'?

Pratikraman means 'turning back'. It is a meditative ritual of confessing one's sins, repenting for negative thoughts or actions committed throughout the year, and resolving not to repeat them, thereby purifying the soul.

Jain Festivals

Paryushan Parva Guide: Micchami Dukkadam, Das Dharma & Soul Purification

Bhakti Voice

भक्ति वॉइस

Dates slightly vary between Shwetambar (8 days) and Digambar (10 days) sects starting in late Shravan or early Bhadrapada.

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Paryushan Parva (celebrated by Shwetambar Jains for 8 days) and Das Lakshana Parva (celebrated by Digambar Jains for 10 days) is the most profound spiritual festival in Jainism. Falling in the monsoon months of Shravana and Bhadrapada, it is not a festival of external rejoicing, but an intense period of introspection, self-purification, and shedding accumulated karmas. Devotees undertake severe fasting, practice prolonged meditation, recite the holy Kalpa Sutra, and observe silence. The festival culminates in 'Samvatsari' (or Kshamavani), the day of universal forgiveness, where Jains seek pardon from all living beings uttering the sacred phrase 'Micchami Dukkadam' (May all my wrongdoings be forgiven).

The story

Paryushan does not commemorate a single historical event or deity. Instead, it is an eternal spiritual law. During the rainy season (Chaturmas), Jain ascetics (Sadhus and Sadhvis) stop traveling to prevent harming the micro-organisms and insects that flourish on wet grounds. They stay in one community, delivering profound discourses on the Agamas (Jain scriptures) and the Kalpa Sutra (which contains the life stories of Tirthankaras). This presence inspires laypeople (Shravakas) to pause their worldly pursuits, embrace rigorous austerities, and focus entirely on the liberation of their own souls.

Traditions

Puja at home

Frequently asked questions

What is the meaning of 'Micchami Dukkadam'?

It is an ancient Prakrit phrase that translates to: 'If I have caused you offense in any way, knowingly or unknowingly, in thought, word, or deed, then I seek your forgiveness.' It is a profound practice of dissolving the ego.

What are the ten virtues celebrated during Das Lakshana Parva?

The ten supreme virtues (Das Dharma) are: Forgiveness (Kshama), Humility (Mardava), Straightforwardness (Aarjava), Contentment (Shaucha), Truth (Satya), Self-restraint (Samyam), Penance (Tapa), Renunciation (Tyaga), Non-attachment (Akinchanya), and Celibacy (Brahmacharya).