The Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA) announced the successful observance of Paryushan and Das Lakshan, Jainism’s most significant annual festival, across the United States and Canada, on September 6, 2025, in South Daytona, Florida.
The week-long period of reflection, fasting, prayer, and forgiveness was marked by thousands of Jain families in temples, community centers, and homes. Throughout North America, Jains gathered for daily prayers, scriptural discourses, meditation sessions, and community service. Many practiced fasting as an act of discipline and self-reflection, noted a statement from JAINA.
The festival concluded with Kshamapana (forgiveness), during which Jains humbly sought and extended forgiveness, expressed through the traditional phrases “Micchami Dukkadam,” “Uttam Kshama,” and “Khamat Khamana.”
“Paryushan gives us a unique opportunity to pause, reflect, and renew ourselves with compassion and forgiveness,” said JAINA President Bindesh Shah. “Across North America, it was heartening to see Jains, young and old, come together to honor this tradition and strengthen our community bonds.”
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As the umbrella organization for Jains in North America, JAINA unites more than 70 Jain centers and organizations while promoting the timeless values of Ahimsa (non-violence), Aparigraha (non-attachment), and Anekantavada (non-absolutism).
In addition to preserving traditions, JAINA also “champions vegetarianism and veganism, mindfulness, and wellness initiatives that align with the Jain principles of non-violence and compassion,” the organization said. The celebrations, it noted, reaffirmed Jainism’s enduring message of “peace, forgiveness, and unity” values that resonate far beyond the Jain community.
Founded in 1981, JAINA is the largest Jain umbrella organization outside India. It is dedicated to advancing Jain principles, culture, and education while fostering unity among Jains across the continent.
