Answer

Yes, during Ekasan/Ekanshnu, it is better to keep a separate clean napkin/cloth for wiping the dish and a separate one for wiping the glass, if possible.

Explanation

In Jain practice, especially during tapasya like Ekasan, the focus is on:

• cleanliness
• carefulness
• avoiding unnecessary mixing of food particles
• maintaining discipline in eating

If the same napkin is used for both dish and glass, food particles or moisture from one may get transferred to the other. So, using separate cloths is considered a more careful and disciplined practice.

Spiritual Understanding

The deeper purpose is not merely the napkin itself, but the attitude of jagruti — awareness and carefulness. Ekasan is a tapasya that trains the soul in restraint, purity, and mindfulness.

Takeaway

If available, use separate clean napkins for dish and glass. If not, at least use one clean cloth very carefully, ensuring no food particles are transferred. For exact rules followed in your ghar, sangh, or tradition, it is best to ask your guru or knowledgeable elder.