Das Lakshan Parv (Paryushan) 2025 – A Journey of Self-Purification and Forgiveness

Every year, Jain communities around the world immerse themselves in the sacred observance of Das Lakshan Parv, also known as Paryushan. In 2025, this ten-day festival of self-discipline, fasting, and reflection culminates on September 9 with the most profound day of all — Samvatsari, the festival of forgiveness.

While outwardly marked by rituals and fasting, the heart of Das Lakshan Parv lies in transforming the inner self — stepping away from worldly distractions to rediscover the soul’s true purity.

Duration and Traditions

• Digambara Jains observe the full 10 days, known as Das Lakshan Parv.
  

• Shwetambara Jains observe 8 days, commonly called Paryushan.
  

Despite slight differences in duration and practice, the essence remains the same — spiritual upliftment, purification, and forgiveness.

Purpose of the Festival

Das Lakshan Parv is a time to:

• Reflect on one’s actions and karmic journey.
  

• Strengthen ethical living and self-discipline.
  

• Purify the mind through fasting, meditation, and penance.
  

• Practice the core Jain virtues that lead toward liberation (moksha).
  

It is not merely a religious ritual, but a reset for the soul — an invitation to live with awareness, compassion, and restraint.

The Ten Virtues (Das Lakshan)

Each day of the festival is dedicated to one virtue, forming a tenfold path of righteousness:

1. Uttam Kshama (Supreme Forgiveness) – Letting go of anger and resentment.
   

2. Uttam Mardava (Supreme Humility) – Overcoming ego and pride.
   

3. Uttam Arjava (Supreme Straightforwardness) – Living honestly and transparently.
   

4. Uttam Shaucha (Supreme Contentment/Purity) – Detachment from greed.
   

5. Uttam Satya (Supreme Truthfulness) – Speaking and living truth.
   

6. Uttam Sanyam (Supreme Self-restraint) – Control over desires and impulses.
   

7. Uttam Tap (Supreme Penance) – Embracing austerity and discipline.
   

8. Uttam Tyag (Supreme Renunciation) – Giving up possessions and attachments.
   

9. Uttam Akinchanya (Supreme Non-possessiveness) – Freedom from material clinging.
   

10. Uttam Brahmacharya (Supreme Celibacy/Chastity) – Devotion to spiritual purity.
    

Each principle is like a step in refining the soul, reducing karmic bondage, and fostering inner peace.

The Culmination – Samvatsari (September 9, 2025)

The last day of Das Lakshan Parv is the most significant. Known as Samvatsari, it is dedicated to Pratikraman (introspection and atonement).

On this day, Jains wholeheartedly seek and grant forgiveness, saying:
“Michhami Dukkadam” – If I have hurt you knowingly or unknowingly, in thought, word, or deed, I seek your forgiveness.

This universal message of reconciliation extends beyond Jain communities, offering a timeless reminder that forgiveness heals, unites, and liberates.

Significance in Jain Philosophy

• Self-Purification: Through fasting and meditation, Jains reduce the influx of new karma.
  

• Spiritual Awakening: Focus shifts from material concerns to the eternal nature of the soul.
  

• Living Dharma: By practicing forgiveness, non-violence, and restraint, Jains embody the essence of ahimsa (non-violence) in daily life.
  

Das Lakshan Parv ultimately guides the soul closer to its true state — blissful, pure, and free from karmic bonds.

Closing Reflection

As Das Lakshan Parv (Paryushan) concludes on September 9, 2025, may we all pause to reflect, forgive, and renew our commitment to compassion and truth.

Let us carry forward the festival’s essence with the words:
“Michhami Dukkadam” — I ask forgiveness from all living beings, and I forgive all as well.