Answer

In Jain tradition, sutak is generally counted inclusively from the day the event happens. That means:

• The same day of birth or death is counted as Day 1
• The next calendar day becomes Day 2
• Then Day 3, and so on

Explanation

A simple way to count sutak is:

• If the event happens today, today is considered the first day
• After that, each following day is counted one by one
• The sutak period ends after the full prescribed number of days as followed in your local Jain custom or family tradition

For example, if a family follows 3 days of sutak:

• Day of event = Day 1
• Next day = Day 2
• Third day = Day 3
• After the completion of the prescribed time, the sutak is considered over

In some Jain communities, the exact ending time may be taken at sunrise, while in others it may follow a different local custom.

Spiritual Understanding

Sutak is observed as a period of restraint, purity, and mindfulness. The main spirit behind it is:

• staying away from unnecessary worldly activity
• maintaining inner and outer cleanliness
• observing reverence and discipline in a sensitive time

The exact counting may vary by sect, region, and family practice, so it is best to follow the tradition your community observes.

Takeaway

The usual way to count sutak is: count the day of the event as the first day, then continue day by day until the prescribed period is complete.