Answer

During Paryushan, Jains try to eat food that supports ahimsa, self-control, simplicity, and spiritual awareness. The exact rules may vary by family, sect, health, and level of tapasya, but commonly people eat:

• Simple vegetarian food
• Freshly prepared food
• Boiled water, usually consumed within the traditionally accepted time limit
• Grains and pulses, if one is not fasting
• Milk, curd, ghee, if accepted in one’s family tradition
• Fruits, where permitted by one’s tradition and vow
• Dry fruits, in moderation, if allowed

What is generally avoided?

During Paryushan, many Jains avoid:

• Root vegetables such as potato, onion, garlic, carrot, radish, beetroot, sweet potato, etc.
• Green leafy vegetables, in many traditions
• Fermented foods
• Stale or leftover food
• Food prepared after sunset
• Eating at night
• Honey
• Eggs, meat, fish, alcohol — these are avoided in Jain Dharma generally, not only during Paryushan

Explanation

Paryushan is a time of inner purification. Food is kept simple so that the mind becomes calmer and less attached to taste. Many people observe different levels of discipline such as:

• Upvas — complete fasting
• Ekasan — eating once in one sitting
• Beasan — eating twice in two sittings
• Ayambil — very simple, tasteless food, usually without spices, oil, ghee, milk, curd, sugar, etc.
• Chauvihar — no food or water after sunset
• Tivihar — no food after sunset, but boiled water may be allowed within limits

Spiritual Understanding

The purpose is not only to restrict food, but to reduce himsa, desires, anger, greed, and attachment. Eating less and eating simply helps one focus on:

• Pratikraman
• Forgiveness
• Self-discipline
• Study of Jain teachings
• Compassion toward all living beings

Takeaway

During Paryushan, eat only what is permitted according to your family tradition, guru’s guidance, and personal capacity. The main aim is simplicity, non-violence, restraint, and purification of the soul.