Answer

Yes, Atthai is considered a very good and spiritually meaningful tapasya during Paryushan, if it is done with proper faith, humility, and physical capacity.

In Jain Dharma, fasting during Paryushan is not only about not eating; it is mainly for:

• Reducing attachment to the body
• Purifying karma
• Practicing self-control
• Increasing dharma, pratikraman, swadhyay, and forgiveness

Explanation

Atthai generally means fasting for eight days. During Paryushan, many Jains observe Atthai as a form of tapasya because Paryushan is a special time for inner purification.

However, it should be done with the right intention:

• Not for pride or showing others
• Not by forcing the body beyond capacity
• Not while neglecting spiritual practices
• With guidance from elders, guru, or knowledgeable people

If someone cannot do Atthai, even smaller tapasya like ekasana, beasana, upvas, ayambil, or controlling anger and speech can also be very valuable.

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, the greatness of tapasya depends not only on how difficult it is, but on the purity of one’s inner feelings.

An Atthai done with ego is less beneficial, while even a small vow done with humility, samayik, pratikraman, forgiveness, and compassion can be spiritually powerful.

Takeaway

Atthai during Paryushan is good if your health allows and your intention is spiritual purification. Do it with humility, proper guidance, and focus on inner change, not only fasting.