Samvatsari is the Jain festival of forgiveness and the concluding day of Paryushan (Kalyanak) in many Jain communities. Here’s a simple explanation:

• What it is

- Samvatsari means "the day of the year" in practice, it marks the end of the annual Paryushan festival and is the main day when Jains focus on forgiveness (kshama). - It is also commonly called Kshamavani, the day people seek forgiveness from others and offer forgiveness to everyone.

• Why it matters

- The core idea is to cleanse one’s mind, speech, and actions by asking forgiveness for any hurt or harm caused to others, and by forgiving all living beings. - It reinforces non-violence, humility, and self-purification, which are central aims of Jain practice.

• How it is observed

- Forgiveness prayers: Jains recite special prayers to seek forgiveness from all beings. They often say, “Michchhaami Dukkadam” (I ask for forgiveness from all beings) or similar phrases, and offer forgiveness in return. - Pratikraman (repentance and reflection): A formal, structured confession and reflection on one’s conduct during the past year, usually done on Samvatsari after completing the day’s rituals. - Fasting or partial fast: Many observe a day of fasting or reduced meals as a means of discipline and purification. - Community and personal rituals: Visits to temples, listening to discourses, and spending time in meditation and right conduct.

• Differences between Digambar and Shwetambar traditions

- Both traditions observe Samvatsari as forgiveness day, but the exact prayers, ritual sequences, and recitations may differ. - The core message—requesting forgiveness and forgiving others—remains the same, but the mantras, scriptures, and liturgical forms used can vary by sect.

• When it happens

- Samvatsari occurs at the end of Paryushan, on the last day of the festival. The date changes each year because it follows the lunar calendar.

If you’d like, I can provide more details on the specific prayers and mantras used in Digambar and Shwetambar practices, or point you to authentic Jain sources that describe the Samvatsari rites in depth.