Answer

During Paryushan, Jains avoid foods that increase violence, attachment, carelessness, or harm to living beings.

Commonly avoided foods include:

• Root vegetables such as potatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, radish, beetroot, sweet potato, etc.
• Green leafy vegetables, especially during stricter observance
• Fermented foods such as bread with yeast, idli/dosa batter, vinegar-based foods, etc.
• Stale or leftover food
• Food after sunset
• Alcohol, meat, eggs, fish, honey — these are avoided in Jain Dharma generally, and especially during Paryushan
• Highly processed or indulgent foods that increase taste-attachment

Explanation

Paryushan is a sacred time for self-discipline, purification, repentance, and spiritual reflection. Food restrictions are observed to reduce harm to living beings and control desires.

Different Jain families and traditions may follow different levels of strictness. Some may eat only simple boiled food, some may avoid certain vegetables, and some may fast completely or partially.

Spiritual Understanding

The purpose is not only “what to avoid,” but also to cultivate:

• Ahimsa — non-violence
• Sanyam — self-control
• Aparigraha — reducing attachment
• Pratikraman bhav — repentance and inner purification

Takeaway

During Paryushan, eat simple, fresh, non-violent food and avoid foods that involve greater harm, indulgence, or carelessness. The deeper goal is purification of the soul through restraint and awareness.