Paryushan is one of the most important and sacred festivals in Jainism, observed annually by both Shwetambar and Digambar sects, though the duration and rituals may vary slightly between the two.

Shwetambar Tradition (8 days)

For Shwetambar Jains, Paryushan Parva lasts for 8 days, culminating in Samvatsari (the day of forgiveness).

The significance of each day:

1. Day 1: Beginning of self-purification through fasting, prayers, and meditation.
2. Day 2-7: Each day is dedicated to reading and reflecting upon the Jain scriptures, especially the Kalpa Sutra, and practicing spiritual austerities.
3. Day 8 (Samvatsari): The most important day, dedicated to seeking forgiveness (Kshamavani) from all living beings for any harm caused knowingly or unknowingly.

Each of the middle days emphasizes different virtues, such as forgiveness, humility, self-control, and truthfulness, with daily Pratikraman (introspection and repentance).

Digambar Tradition (10 days)

For Digambar Jains, this festival is called Das Lakshan Parva and is observed for 10 days. Each day is dedicated to one of the ten supreme virtues (Das Lakshan):

1. Uttam Kshama (Supreme Forgiveness)
2. Uttam Mardava (Supreme Humility)
3. Uttam Arjava (Supreme Straightforwardness/Honesty)
4. Uttam Shaucha (Supreme Contentment/Purity)
5. Uttam Satya (Supreme Truth)
6. Uttam Sanyam (Supreme Self-restraint)
7. Uttam Tap (Supreme Austerity)
8. Uttam Tyag (Supreme Renunciation)
9. Uttam Akinchanya (Supreme Non-attachment)
10. Uttam Brahmacharya (Supreme Celibacy/Chastity)

Each day, followers focus on one virtue, perform special prayers, and undertake spiritual practices.

Common Practices During Paryushan

• Fasting or taking a restricted diet
• Attending discourses and scriptural readings
• Increased meditation and introspection (Pratikraman)
• Seeking forgiveness and forgiving others
• Charity and helping the needy

Paryushan is a time for intense spiritual upliftment, purification, and seeking forgiveness, with each day designed to help Jains progress on the path of liberation (moksha).