In Jainism, curd (dahi) is a bit of a special case.

Short, simple answer: Yes, many Jains do eat curd – but with conditions, and some Jains avoid it completely.

Key points:

1. Ahimsa and fermentation

- Curd is fermented, so it contains many tiny living beings (bacteria). - Because of ahimsa, Jains try to avoid foods with lots of microbial life, so curd is treated carefully, not casually.

1. How many Jains eat curd

- If allowed, it is usually: - Made from boiled and cooled milk. - Freshly set (same day). - Eaten before sunset and not kept overnight. ( jainknowledge.com)

1. When curd is avoided

- Many sincere/strict Jains, and almost all sadhus–sadhvis, avoid curd and all fermented items. ( jainknowledge.com) - During special periods like Paryushan, Chaturmas, Ayambil, etc., curd and other fermented foods are usually not taken at all. ( jainknowledge.com)

1. Differences in tradition

- Both Digambar and Shwetambar agree on avoiding himsa and on being careful with fermented food. - In everyday life, some Shwetambar households are more flexible and allow fresh curd; many Digambar and stricter Shwetambar families avoid it more often. ( jainknowledge.com)

So, whether you as a Jain should eat curd depends on:

• Your sect and family tradition,
• The vows you follow,
• And whether it is a special period (like Paryushan, Ayambil, etc.).

You can read more detailed guidance on curd in Jainism here: