Answer

In Jain Dharma, Chauvihaar means not eating or drinking anything after sunset until the next morning. To “open Chauvihaar” means to properly end the vow the next day.

A common way to open Chauvihaar is:

• Open it after sunrise.
• First do Navkar Mantra with devotion.
• Then drink boiled and cooled water or take suitable Jain food.
• Do it with a calm and respectful mind.

Explanation

Chauvihaar is generally observed from sunset to sunrise. During this period, one avoids all food and water. After sunrise, the vow may be completed by remembering the soul’s purity and taking food or water in a proper Jain manner.

If you had taken Chauvihaar as part of a specific tapasya, pratikraman instruction, or under guidance of a sadhu-sadhvi/elder, then follow the method they gave.

Spiritual Understanding

Chauvihaar helps in:

• Practicing self-control
• Reducing attachment to taste and food
• Supporting ahimsa by avoiding night eating
• Strengthening discipline in daily life

Takeaway

Open Chauvihaar after sunrise with Navkar Mantra, purity of thought, and proper Jain food or boiled water.