Upavartana in Jainism means turning the attention of the soul inward and restraining the body’s external activities. It is a form of internal austerity (tapas) that helps burn karma and purify the soul, by reducing engagement with worldly desires and senses. It is not just about fasting; it is about staying close to the soul and moderating actions, thoughts, and attachments so that karmic influx slows down and existing karmas begin to loosen. There can be variation in language and emphasis between Digambar and Śvetambar texts, but the core idea is the same: inward focus and restraint to purify the self.