Answer

Yes, you can chant both ways:

• In front of Bhagwan’s photo or idol — this helps concentration, devotion, and purity of thoughts.
• Without a photo — you can chant anywhere with respectful feelings, calm mind, and inner devotion.

Explanation

In Jain Dharma, the main purpose of chanting is to purify the soul, remember the virtues of Arihant Bhagwan, Siddha Bhagwan, Acharyas, Upadhyays, and Sadhus, and reduce attachment, anger, ego, greed, and worldly thoughts.

A photo or idol is a helpful support for focus, but the true worship is through:

• Right faith
• Pure intention
• Concentration
• Reverence
• Awareness of the meaning of the mantra

Spiritual Understanding

If you are at home and have a clean, peaceful place, chanting in front of Bhagwan’s photo is very good.

But if you are travelling, walking, sitting quietly, or do not have a photo nearby, you may still chant respectfully in your mind or softly.

The important thing is not just the place, but the purity of your bhav — your inner feeling.

Takeaway

Chanting before Bhagwan’s photo is beneficial for focus, but chanting with sincere devotion can be done anywhere. The most important thing is respectful and pure inner intention.