Answer

Yes. According to Digambar Jain tradition, there were Digambar munis in the 17th and 18th centuries, but their number and visibility were limited compared to earlier periods.

Explanation

In Digambar Jain history, there were periods when the full practice of nude monkhood became rare in certain regions due to social, political, and practical difficulties. However, the Digambar ascetic tradition did not completely disappear.

During the 17th and 18th centuries:

• Digambar Jain religious life continued through munis, aryikas, bhattarakas, scholars, and lay communities.
• The Bhattaraka institution played a major role in preserving temples, manuscripts, rituals, learning, and community organization.
• In some regions, fully nude Digambar munis were less commonly seen, while Bhattarakas and other renunciant figures were more prominent.
• Later reform movements in the Digambar community placed renewed emphasis on the ancient ideal of full muni conduct.

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, the importance of a muni is not only historical but spiritual. A true muni represents renunciation, non-possession, self-control, ahimsa, and the path toward liberation.

For Digambar tradition, the ideal muni follows very strict conduct, including complete non-possession. Because of this extreme discipline, such munis have always been rare.

Takeaway

Yes, Digambar munis did exist in the 17th and 18th centuries, but in many areas the Bhattaraka tradition was more visible and influential during that time.