What are all the Jain festivals?
Jain Dharma does not have one single universally fixed list of festivals, because practices vary a little by Digambar and Shwetambar traditions, as well as by region. But the major Jain festivals and observances include:
Major Jain festivals
- Paryushan Parva
- The most important Jain observance of self-discipline, fasting, prayer, repentance, and forgiveness. - In Shwetambar tradition, it is called Paryushan. - In Digambar tradition, it is called Das Lakshan Parva.
- Samvatsari
- The last day of Paryushan in Shwetambar tradition. - It is the day of micchami dukkadam and asking forgiveness from all living beings.
- Das Lakshan Parva
- Celebrated in Digambar tradition. - Focuses on the ten supreme virtues: Kshama, Mardava, Arjava, Shaucha, Satya, संयम, Tapa, Tyaga, Akinchanya, Brahmacharya.
- Mahavir Jayanti
- Birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankar.
- Nirvan Divas / Diwali
- Celebrates the moksha (liberation) of Lord Mahavir. - For Jains, Diwali is especially a sacred remembrance of Mahavir’s nirvan.
- Kartiki Purnima / Gyan Panchami
- Observed in some traditions as a day of knowledge worship, scripture reverence, and spiritual merit.
- Akshaya Tritiya
- Important especially for remembering Lord Rishabhdev’s first ahar after long tapas. - A day of charity and devotion.
- Maun Agiyaras
- A day of silence, introspection, and restraint. - Observed in some Jain traditions.
- Varshitap Parana
- The completion of the year-long austerity of Lord Rishabhdev’s tapas is remembered with devotion, especially in connection with Akshaya Tritiya.
- Rath Yatra of Jain Tirthankars
- In some places, processions are held during festivals or temple events as a devotional observance.
Other important observances
- Jnan Panchami – worship of knowledge and scriptures
- Sthanakvasi/ Terapanthi observances may emphasize different fasting and spiritual days
- Chaturmas – the sacred four-month period of restraint, fasting, study, and spiritual practice
In short
The most important Jain festivals are:- Paryushan / Das Lakshan
- Samvatsari
- Mahavir Jayanti
- Diwali / Mahavir Nirvan
- Akshaya Tritiya
- Gyan Panchami
If you want, I can also give you a calendar-wise list of Jain festivals month by month in a simple format.