Answer

In Jain Dharma, plucking flowers is generally not considered ideal, because it involves harm to plant life. Jain principles emphasize Ahimsa — non-violence toward all living beings, including plants.

Offering flowers in puja is seen in many traditions, but from a strict Jain viewpoint, freshly plucked flowers should be avoided as much as possible.

Explanation

Jainism teaches that plants have life. When we pluck a flower, we cause harm to the plant and disturb living organisms connected with it.

For puja, the highest offering is not the physical item itself, but the purity of bhav — inner devotion, humility, and reverence.

So instead of plucking flowers, one may consider:

• Offering devotion through Namokar Mantra, stavan, or prayer
• Using flowers that have naturally fallen, if appropriate in one’s tradition
• Doing mental puja with pure feelings
• Offering symbolic devotion without harming living beings

Spiritual Understanding

Jain puja is meant to reduce attachment, ego, and violence. If an offering causes harm, then the devotee should reflect whether it supports the deeper purpose of puja.

The Tirthankars do not desire material offerings. They are Vitarag — completely free from attachment and desire. Puja is for our own spiritual purification.

Takeaway

If possible, avoid plucking flowers for puja. Offer devotion with non-violence, purity, and awareness. In Jain Dharma, Ahimsa with bhav is higher than any physical offering.