Answer

In Śvetāmbara Jain tradition, a male layperson generally does not need to remove the upper cloth during Sāmāyik or Pratikramaṇ.

He may wear clean, simple, respectful clothing. The main requirement is purity, humility, and proper conduct, not removing the upper garment.

Explanation

During Sāmāyik and Pratikramaṇ, the focus is on:

• Equanimity
• Repentance for faults
• Forgiveness
• Self-discipline
• Devotional concentration

Śvetāmbara laymen commonly wear:

• Clean white clothes
• Simple traditional clothing
• Sometimes a special cloth used for religious practice

Removing the upper cloth is not a universal Śvetāmbara requirement for householders doing Sāmāyik or Pratikramaṇ.

However, customs may differ slightly by:

• Gaccha or sampradāya
• Local temple tradition
• Family practice
• Guidance of one’s guru or upādhyāy

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, the inner bhāv is most important. External discipline supports inner purity, but the real aim is to reduce attachment, pride, anger, deceit, and greed.

If one wears clean and modest clothing with humility and concentration, Sāmāyik and Pratikramaṇ can be performed respectfully.

Takeaway

For Śvetāmbara Sāmāyik or Pratikramaṇ, a male normally does not have to remove the upper cloth. Follow your local tradition or guru’s guidance if your sangh has a specific practice.