Answer

Atthai is a Jain tapasya in which a person observes fasting for 8 continuous days.

It is considered a very respected form of austerity in Jain Dharma.

Explanation

During Atthai, the devotee usually gives up regular food for eight days and spends time in:

• Prayer
• Samayik
• Pratikraman
• Swadhyay
• Meditation
• Devotion toward Arihant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyay, and Sadhu-Sadhvi Bhagwant

The exact practice may vary depending on health, family tradition, and guidance from Guru Bhagwant.

Spiritual Understanding

The purpose of Atthai is not only physical fasting. Its deeper goal is:

• To reduce attachment to the body and taste
• To practice self-control
• To purify the soul through tapasya
• To develop inner strength and discipline
• To support the shedding of karma

Takeaway

Atthai means 8 days of Jain fasting with devotion, discipline, and inner purification. It should be done with proper understanding, humility, and, when needed, guidance from knowledgeable elders or Guru Bhagwant.