“Pancha Namaskara” generally refers to the Pancha‑Parameṣṭhi Namaskār / Navkar Mantra – bowing to the five supreme beings:

1. Arihant
2. Siddha
3. Āchārya
4. Upādhyāya
5. All Sādhus–Sādhvīs

Main purpose of Pancha Namaskār:

1. Vandan of supreme souls, not asking for worldly things

- We simply bow to their guṇa (qualities), not for money, health, success etc. - It is a śuddha namaskār – a pure salutation.

1. Destroying pāp (karmic bondage)

- Scripture-tradition says: “Eso pancha namokkāro, savva pāvappaṇāsano” – This five‑fold bowing destroys sins (pāp‑karmas) when done with faith and awareness.

1. Developing humility and samyaktva (right vision)

- Repeatedly bowing to these ideal souls reduces ego, anger, greed etc. - It reminds us of the right path – where we also have to become like them.

1. Making the mind śānt and pavitra (peaceful and pure)

- Regular recitation creates a calm, detached, positive state of mind. - This becomes a base for jap, dhyan and true spiritual progress.

1. Universal and sect‑independent

- Both Digambar and Śvetāmbara accept this as the main mantra. - Wording/extra lines may differ slightly, but purpose is same – bowing to Pañcha‑Parameṣṭhi and purifying the soul.

In short: The purpose of Pancha Namaskār is inner purification and movement towards moksha, not worldly benefit.

You can read a simple explanation of Navkar Mantra and its benefits here