Answer

During Paryushan, Jains generally avoid cutting hair, shaving, nail-cutting, and other grooming activities as much as possible.

It is considered better to postpone hair cutting until after Paryushan.

Explanation

Paryushan is a sacred period of:

• Self-discipline
• Tapasya
• Pratikraman
• Forgiveness
• Reducing attachment to the body

Cutting hair is not usually seen as part of spiritual discipline during this time. It is associated with bodily care and appearance, so many Jain families and traditions avoid it during Paryushan.

Spiritual Understanding

The deeper idea is not merely “hair cutting is forbidden,” but that during Paryushan one should reduce focus on external appearance and increase focus on the soul, forgiveness, restraint, and purity of conduct.

Takeaway

If possible, do not cut your hair during Paryushan. Wait until Paryushan is over. If there is a genuine medical, hygiene, or unavoidable reason, consult your family elders or a learned Jain sadhu/sadhvi or scholar from your tradition.