When someone like “Bal Sadhu” takes diksha, it is a big change not only for him, but also for his friends. Here is how his friends can handle it in a right Jain way:

1. Understand what diksha really is

- It is not “running away from home.” - It is a very high spiritual step: leaving worldly life to follow ahimsa, aparigraha, and the path to moksha. - When friends understand this, they feel more respect than sadness.

1. Accept that the relationship will change

- Before: “school friend / play friend / chat friend.” - After diksha: he becomes Sadhu / Muni / Sadhviji – a guru to respect. - Friends should slowly move from casual friendship to shraddha (respectful devotion).

1. Reduce attachment, increase love

- Jain Dharma teaches: rāg (attachment) causes pain. - It is okay to feel emotional, but try not to say: “Why are you leaving us? Don’t go!” - Instead think: “I am happy you are going closer to moksha. I will love you without holding you back.”

1. Show support, not pressure

- Do not try to change his decision or make him feel guilty. - Say things like: - “We are proud of you.” - “Please bless us to walk on the right path.” - This gives strength to the new sadhu and is in line with ahimsa (no mental hurt).

1. Follow some good habits yourself

- Friends can take small steps inspired by him: - Speak truth more carefully. - Avoid hurting insects and animals. - Eat with more care (ahimsak food). - Reduce anger, greed, and jealousy. - In this way, his diksha improves your life too.

1. Keep memories, but don’t cling

- It is fine to remember fun times, see old photos, talk about old days. - But remind yourself: “Now he is a sadhu. His real ‘family’ is dharma.” - Convert missing him into prarthana: “May I also walk towards samyak darshan one day.”

1. If they meet him after diksha

- Meet with respect – folded hands, bowing, no casual touching / hugging. - Talk less of worldly gossip; ask more about dharma. - Take āshirvad (blessings), not selfies.

In short: Bal Sadhu’s friends should honour his choice, control their attachment, and use his diksha as a chance to grow in their own Jain life.

If you want to read more on how people approach diksha in Jainism, you can see this simple explanation here: