Answer

Paryushan is celebrated because it is one of the most sacred periods in Jain Dharma for self-purification, repentance, forgiveness, spiritual study, and inner discipline.

It is not mainly a festival of outward celebration, but a time for turning inward and cleansing the soul.

Explanation

During Paryushan, Jains focus on:

• Pratikraman – reflecting on mistakes and asking forgiveness
• Tapasya – fasting and self-control
• Swadhyay – studying Jain teachings
• Ahimsa – becoming more careful in thoughts, words, and actions
• Kshamapana – forgiving others and seeking forgiveness

For Shvetambar Jains, Paryushan is generally observed for 8 days. For Digambar Jains, the sacred period is commonly observed as Das Lakshan Parva for 10 days, focusing on ten great virtues.

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, the soul becomes bound by karma through anger, ego, deceit, greed, attachment, and carelessness. Paryushan gives an opportunity to reduce these passions and move closer to the true nature of the soul.

The most important message of Paryushan is:

“Micchami Dukkadam” — if I have hurt anyone knowingly or unknowingly, through mind, speech, or body, I ask forgiveness.

Takeaway

Paryushan is celebrated to purify the soul, practice forgiveness, reduce karmas, strengthen self-discipline, and move toward liberation. It is a sacred reminder to live with more humility, compassion, and awareness.