Answer

In Jain tradition, 3 upvas is called Attham because it refers to a fast connected with the eighth tithi or the traditional counting of fasting days.

Explanation

The word Attham comes from “Aṭṭhama”, meaning eighth.

In Jain practice, when a person does 3 continuous upvas, the fasting period is traditionally counted along with the surrounding meal days in a religious observance pattern. Because of this traditional counting, it is known as Attham.

Commonly:

• 1 upvas is called Upvas
• 2 upvas is called Chhath
• 3 upvas is called Attham

Spiritual Understanding

Attham is not just a physical fast. In Jain Dharma, fasting is meant to support:

• self-control
• reduction of attachment to food
• purification of karma
• greater focus on samayik, pratikraman, svadhyay, and bhakti

Takeaway

3 upvas is called Attham because “Attham” means eighth, and the name comes from traditional Jain fasting-counting practice associated with the eighth count.