Answer

During Paryushan, these items are generally considered as follows:

• Pumpkin seeds – usually avoided by many Jains during Paryushan.
• Sunflower seeds – usually avoided by many Jains during Paryushan.
• Flax seeds – usually avoided by many Jains during Paryushan.
• Soya chunks – generally avoided during Paryushan by many, especially because they are processed and made from soybeans.

Explanation

Paryushan is a time of increased saiyam — restraint, purity, simplicity, and spiritual focus. Many Jains follow stricter food rules during these days than in ordinary daily life.

Seeds and processed foods are often avoided because:

• They may be considered heavy or indulgent for a period of tapasya and simplicity.
• They may have storage, processing, or purity concerns.
• Different Jain families, sanghs, and traditions follow different levels of strictness.

Soya chunks are usually avoided more clearly because they are a processed food product, and many people avoid such items during Paryushan.

Spiritual Understanding

The spirit of Paryushan is not only “what is technically allowed,” but also:

• reducing attachment to taste,
• eating simple and pure food,
• avoiding unnecessary indulgence,
• supporting inner purification through restraint.

Takeaway

If you are observing Paryushan with stricter discipline, it is better to avoid pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, flax seeds, and soya chunks. For exact practice, follow your family tradition, local sangh guidance, or ask your Jain guru/saadharmik authority.