North American Jain Communities Observe Paryushan, Das Lakshan With Youth Participation

Jain communities across North America observed Paryushan Parv and Das Lakshan Parv with prayers, fasting, meditation, and spiritual gatherings focused on reflection, self-discipline, forgiveness, and spiritual growth, according to a JAINA statement.

The Shwetambar Jain community observes Paryushan for eight days, while the Digambar community observes Das Lakshan Parv for ten days. Both observances encourage personal reflection, self-discipline, and compassion.

More than 70 Jain centers across North America marked Paryushan with prayers, ceremonies, spiritual talks, meditation, Bhavna, and Tapsya, including fasting and other forms of self-discipline. The observance concluded with Tapsvi Bahuman, which honors those who completed extended fasts, followed by Parna, the traditional breaking of the fast.

JAINA also highlighted the participation of young Jains. Members of Young Jains of America (YJA) adopted personal Niyams, or commitments, and took part in fasting, prayer, meditation, and other spiritual practices while balancing school, college, work, and daily responsibilities.

“Paryushan gives us a chance to pause and reflect on how we live our lives,” said Atul Shah of Chicago, Illinois, president of JAINA. “At its heart, it is about becoming better human beings. It was especially encouraging to see so many young people embrace these values in their own way.”

Samvatsari, the final day of Paryushan, is dedicated to seeking forgiveness. Jains ask forgiveness for harm they may have caused through their thoughts, words, or actions, using the phrase “Micchami Dukkadam,” meaning “May my mistakes be forgiven.”

The statement emphasized Ahimsa, or nonviolence, alongside compassion, forgiveness, and respect for all living beings as central Jain principles. It described Paryushan as an opportunity for Jains to renew their commitment to these values in their personal lives and communities.

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