If there’s one time in the Jain calendar that feels deeply personal and spiritually powerful, it’s Paryushan. I still remember the quiet mornings during Paryushan at our local Jain temple — the sound of Jain sutras, the smell of incense, and everyone gathered with such calm devotion. It’s not just a festival; it feels like a reset button for the soul.
Whether you’re observing it for the first time or are a lifelong follower, here’s everything you need to know about Paryushan 2025 — from the official dates to rituals, fasting, and its beautiful message of forgiveness.
Paryushan 2025 Start & End Dates
Paryushan is celebrated differently by Shwetambar and Digambar Jains, but the essence remains the same: inner purification and reflection.
🕊️ For Shwetambar Jains:
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Start Date: Thursday, August 21, 2025
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End Date (Samvatsari): Thursday, August 28, 2025
The 8th day (Samvatsari) is the most sacred — the day of Michhami Dukkadam, when we ask forgiveness from all beings.
🔱 For Digambar Jains:
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Start Date: Friday, August 29, 2025
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End Date (Anant Chaturdashi): Friday, September 5, 2025
The 10-day period for Digambar Jains ends with Kshamavani, the day of universal forgiveness.
What is Paryushan All About?
Paryushan comes from the Sanskrit words “Pari” (all around) and “Ushan” (to burn or cleanse). It’s a time to burn away our inner impurities — anger, ego, greed, and attachment.
Every year, Jains dedicate these 8 to 10 days to:
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Fasting (Tapasya)
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Pratikraman (spiritual self-review)
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Scripture reading like Kalpasutra
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Ahimsa and non-violence
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Asking for forgiveness
It’s also a time to slow down, simplify life, and connect with your soul — no matter how busy the outside world gets.
Fasting & Tapasya During Paryushan
One of the most striking parts of Paryushan is the deep commitment to fasting (upvaas) — not as punishment, but as purification.
People observe:
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Ekasana (one meal a day)
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Upvaas (complete fasting for one or more days)
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Aayambil (only boiled grains and no spices)
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Varsitap (alternate-day fasting)
You’ll be amazed to see kids, elders, and even working professionals fasting with such discipline and peace. It’s all about intention and faith, not competition.
💡 Tip: Stay hydrated, and if you’re doing even light fasting, inform family or friends so they can support you.
Daily Rituals & Temple Activities
Every day of Paryushan has its own focus. In Shwetambar temples, you’ll often hear Kalpasutra being recited, especially the story of Lord Mahavira’s life.
Common Temple Activities:
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Morning pratikraman and evening reflection
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Pooja and Bhakti bhavana
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Pravachans (spiritual discourses)
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Charity (daan) and kindness activities
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Community clean-up and seva
📿 Samvatsari Pratikraman on the last day is especially important — a detailed repentance ritual that reminds us of every small harm we may have caused, knowingly or unknowingly.
Michhami Dukkadam – The Heart of Paryushan
At the end of Paryushan, Jains greet everyone with:
“Michhami Dukkadam” — meaning, “If I have hurt you by thoughts, words, or actions, knowingly or unknowingly, please forgive me.”
This simple sentence carries so much power. It helps us let go of grudges, guilt, and ego — and move forward lighter, freer, and more loving.
Who Can Observe Paryushan?
Everyone. You don’t have to be a monk or deeply religious to take part.
Even if you:
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Read one Jain prayer daily
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Avoid harming insects
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Skip non-veg and root vegetables
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Speak a little more kindly
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Ask forgiveness mindfully
— you’re already observing the essence of Paryushan.
It’s not about rules. It’s about your intention to become a better version of yourself.
Paryushan in Daily Life (Even If You’re Busy)
Many of us have jobs, schools, or family responsibilities. But you can still connect with Paryushan in small, meaningful ways:
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Wake up early for 10 minutes of silence or prayer
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Skip entertainment for a few days and reflect inward
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Apologize to someone you’ve hurt — or even forgive silently
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Read a few lines from Jain scriptures like Tattvartha Sutra or Kalpasutra
FAQs – Paryushan 2025
• When is Paryushan 2025 for Shwetambar Jains?
August 21 to August 28, 2025
• When is Samvatsari (Forgiveness Day) in 2025?
Thursday, August 28, 2025
• When is Paryushan 2025 for Digambar Jains?
August 29 to September 5, 2025
• What is Michhami Dukkadam?
A Jain phrase meaning “Please forgive me” — spoken on Samvatsari to ask forgiveness from all living beings.
• Can I observe Paryushan without fasting?
Absolutely! Focus on spiritual growth, kindness, and forgiveness — even small steps count.
Final Thoughts
Paryushan is not just for monks or temples — it’s for all of us. It’s a reminder that we can pause, reflect, and reconnect with our true self. Whether you fast or just say “Michhami Dukkadam” with a full heart, the spirit of this beautiful festival can be felt deeply.
Wishing you a soul-cleansing, heart-opening, and spiritually enriching Paryushan 2025.
🙏 Michhami Dukkadam 🙏