Answer

Atham Parna means properly completing the Atham tapasya after fasting for three days. In Jain tradition, Parna should be done with purity, humility, and awareness.

A general way to do Atham Parna is:

• Wake up early and do Navkar Mantra, Pratikraman, Samayik, or quiet prayer as per your tradition.
• Take blessings from Guru Bhagwant, elders, or family members.
• Do Parna at the proper time, usually in the morning, according to the time fixed by your local Jain tradition or Guru.
• Break the fast with simple, appropriate food or drink, according to your sect and family custom.
• Eat slowly, peacefully, and in limited quantity.
• Avoid overeating after tapasya.
• Maintain feelings of gratitude, forgiveness, and detachment.

Explanation

After three days of fasting, the body becomes delicate, so Parna should be gentle. Traditionally, many people begin with simple boiled water or light food, depending on their health and custom.

The exact Parna items can differ by Jain tradition, family practice, health condition, and Guru guidance. Therefore, it is best to follow the instruction of your Guru Bhagwant, local sangh, or experienced family elder.

Spiritual Understanding

Atham is not only about avoiding food. It is a practice of:

• controlling desires,
• reducing attachment to the body,
• increasing inner purity,
• strengthening faith in Dharma,
• and developing humility.

Parna should also be done with the same spiritual feeling. The thought should be:

“This tapasya is for purification of the soul, not for pride or praise.”

Takeaway

Do Atham Parna at the proper time, with simple food, calm mind, Guru’s guidance, and deep gratitude. The most important part is not the food used for Parna, but the purity of intention and humility after tapasya.