Also what should I eat tomorrow as I am on my 2 nd day of period and it’s Anant chaturdashi
Thank you for asking. In Jain Dharma, dietary and ritual practices can vary by tradition (Digambar vs. Śvetāmbara) and by family, so there isn’t a single universal rule for every practitioner. I’ll give you a simple, general guidance you can adapt, and mention where differences may arise.
What to keep in mind on the 2nd day of your period (and during Anant Chaturdashi)
- Observances during periods: Many Jain households observe some form of vrat or restraint during menstruation. This can range from continuing normal meals to doing a lighter, more mindful fast or avoiding certain foods, depending on family custom. If your family or local center has a specific rule, follow that.
- Food quality: Jain nutrition emphasizes non-violence and simplicity. Prefer light, sattvic meals that are easy to digest. Avoid heavy, very spicy, or fried preparations if you feel sensitive during your period.
- Root vegetables: A large part of Jain dietary practice is to avoid root vegetables (like onions, garlic, potatoes, carrots, etc.) because they are believed to cause more harm to living beings during cultivation and digestion. This is a common practice for many Jains year-round, but some households may follow stricter or more relaxed rules during vrat or special days.
- Hydration and comfort: Stay well-hydrated and choose warm, easily digestible foods like khichdi, plain dals, steamed vegetables (non-root, if allowed by your family), or simple chapatis with mild subzi. Eat slowly and listen to your body.
Anant Chaturdashi special note
- Anant Chaturdashi is observed with bhakti and puja to Anant (often linked with Anantdev or the concept of infinite auspiciousness). The focus is on gratitude, humility, and spiritual remembrance. Foods offered in puja or prasad are typically simple and pure, aligned with your dietary rules.
- In some Śvetāmbara communities, there may be specific stotra or ritual recitations on this day; in Digambar traditions, the emphasis and wording of certain practices may differ. Your local practice may specify which stotra to read and what to offer.
Simple, safe options you can consider (adjust to your family norms)
- A light khichdi made with plain lentils and rice, with a dab of ghee if you use it, and mild spices.
- Soft dals with steamed vegetables (non-root, if your custom allows) and a chapati.
- Plain yogurt (if you consume dairy as per your family rule) with rice or chapati and a light subzi.
- Fruit-based or light preparings like khir (rice pudding) made with minimal ingredients, if dairy-use is permitted.
- Hydration: warm water, elaichi (cardamom) water, or herbal teas that fit your rules.
Important note
- Since practices differ, the best approach is to follow your family’s Jain guidance for:
- If you’re unsure, consider asking a knowledgeable elder in your community or your local Jain center for the exact customs you should follow today.
If you’d like, I can point you to a Jain Knowledge page that matches your tradition or provide a concise ritual outline for Anant Chaturdashi in your denomination.