Why do we do kesh lochan

In Jain Dharma, kesh lochan is done to express complete renunciation and detachment from the body.

Why it is done:

• To reduce attachment to appearance and personal comfort.
• To practice aparigraha — non-possession and non-attachment.
• To show humility and simplicity.
• To help destroy ego and vanity.
• For sadhus and sadhvis, it is part of their disciplined life of tapas and vairagya.

Spiritual meaning:

Hair is considered part of bodily beauty and identity. By removing it, a Jain ascetic shows:

• “I am not this body.”
• “My goal is moksha, not physical adornment.”
• “I accept pain and discomfort with equanimity.”

In Jain tradition:

• Digambar sadhus practice kesh lochan by plucking hair by hand.
• Shwetambar sadhus/sadhvis may follow a different mode according to their tradition.

So, kesh lochan is a symbol of renunciation, discipline, and liberation from worldly attachment.