Answer

During Paryushan, a fast is usually opened with parna. Parna means ending the fast in a proper, calm, and religious manner.

Commonly, people open the fast with:

• Boiled water first
• Then light, simple food such as moong water, rice, khichdi, or simple sattvik food
• Food should be taken slowly and in small quantity

Explanation

The exact way may differ depending on:

• The type of fast: upvas, chauvihar upvas, attham, athai, etc.
• Your Jain tradition: Shwetambar, Digambar, Sthanakvasi, Terapanthi, etc.
• Your health and capacity
• Guidance from your guru, sadhu-sadhvi, or family tradition

A respectful way to open the fast is:

• Do dev-vandan, guru-vandan, or prayer if that is your practice
• Ask for forgiveness and maintain a peaceful mind
• Take boiled water first
• Eat only light and suitable food
• Avoid overeating or eating heavy, oily, spicy food immediately

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, fasting is not only about not eating. It is a practice of:

• Self-control
• Reducing attachment to taste
• Purifying thoughts
• Practicing ahimsa and discipline
• Moving closer to the soul’s true nature

So parna should also be done with humility, gratitude, and awareness.

Takeaway

Open your Paryushan fast gently with boiled water and simple food, after prayer or reflection. Follow your family or guru’s tradition, and if you have health concerns, take proper care of your body while maintaining religious discipline.