Michhami Dukkadam is a forgiveness phrase used in Jainism, and the day it is spoken differs by tradition:

• Śvetāmbar (Shwetambar): On the last day of Paryushana, called Samvatsari. This is the day for the universal forgiveness ritual and saying Micchāmi Dukkaḍaṃ to seek forgiveness from all beings. The practice marks the culmination of the annual Pratikraman and related austerities. In 2025, Samvatsari is observed on 17 August 2025. You’ll hear the phrase exchanged widely that evening as part of the Samvatsari Pratikraman. For more details, see: Michaaami Dukadam date 2025.

• Digambar: On Kshamavani Parva (the first day of Ashvin Krishna) during the 10-day Das Lakshana Parva, forgiveness is emphasized and Micchāmi Dukkaḍaṃ is spoken. This day is the Digambar equivalent of the Śvetāmbara forgiveness day, but it falls on a different date each year. In 2025, Kshamavani Parva is observed around 24 August 2025. For a comparison, see: Micchami dukkhdam, kshamavani, and 1st day of digambar paryushan.

Brief meaning (arth):

• Micchāmi Dukkaḍaṃ literally means “may all the wrong I have done be in vain” or “may my misdeeds be nullified.” It is a prayer for forgiveness and an invitation to others to forgive, so that one can start afresh with fewer karmic obstructions.

Key point:

• The intention is the same across traditions: to confess, seek forgiveness, and vow to practice more carefully. The difference is mainly the timing and the ritual name: Samvatsari (Śvetāmbara) vs. Kshamavani Parva (Digambara).

If you’d like, I can share the exact wording used in Śvetāmbara and Digambara practices and a simple pronunciation guide.