Answer

Choviyar Upwas generally means doing an Upwas while observing Chovihar.

In Jain Dharma:

• Upwas means fasting for the whole day, usually without eating food.
• Chovihar means not taking any food or water after sunset until sunrise.

So, Choviyar Upwas refers to a fast where one observes strict discipline, especially avoiding food and water during the night period.

Explanation

In common Jain practice, during an Upwas a person may avoid solid food for the day. Depending on one’s capacity, health, and family or sect tradition, the rules may vary regarding water.

Chovihar is an important Jain practice because Jain Dharma emphasizes avoiding eating or drinking after sunset. This helps reduce harm to tiny living beings and supports self-control.

Spiritual Understanding

Choviyar Upwas is not only about not eating. Its deeper purpose is:

• to practice sanyam — self-restraint,
• to reduce attachment to taste and comfort,
• to spend more time in prayer, samayik, pratikraman, svadhyay, and inner reflection,
• to purify the soul by reducing passions and carelessness.

Takeaway

Choviyar Upwas is a Jain fast observed with the discipline of Chovihar, helping a person practice restraint, non-violence, and spiritual awareness.