Answer

In Jain Dharma, Pratikraman is generally done to repent for faults, ask forgiveness, and return toward the right path of the soul.

It is commonly done at these times:

• Daily Pratikraman – morning and evening, especially for sādhus and sādhvīs; many householders do evening pratikraman.
• Pakshik Pratikraman – every fortnight, on the 14th day.
• Chaumasi Pratikraman – every four months.
• Samvatsari Pratikraman – once a year, on Samvatsari during Paryushan; this is especially important.

Explanation

Pratikraman means to “turn back” from wrong actions, thoughts, and speech. It includes:

• Remembering mistakes done knowingly or unknowingly
• Repenting sincerely
• Asking forgiveness from all living beings
• Resolving not to repeat the same faults

For householders, the most commonly observed pratikraman is evening pratikraman and especially Samvatsari Pratikraman.

Spiritual Understanding

Pratikraman is not only a ritual. It is a process of inner purification. It helps reduce anger, ego, deceit, greed, carelessness, and violence in daily life.

Takeaway

One should do pratikraman regularly, especially in the evening, on Pakshik days, Chaumasi, and most importantly on Samvatsari, with sincere repentance and forgiveness.