Answer

During Das Lakshan, whether you can drink flavored seltzer water depends on the level of discipline or vow you are following.

In general:

• Plain water is usually acceptable if your vow allows water.
• Flavored seltzer water is generally avoided during stricter Jain fasting or tapasya because it is not simple plain water and may contain flavoring, additives, sweeteners, or other ingredients.

Explanation

Das Lakshan is a sacred period for purification, self-control, forgiveness, and spiritual upliftment. Many people observe different levels of restraint:

• Upvas – complete fasting, usually with only boiled water during permitted times, depending on tradition.
• Ayambil – very simple, tasteless food once a day, avoiding spices, sweets, oils, fruits, and rich tastes.
• Ekasana / Beasana – eating once or twice with discipline.
• General restraint – avoiding indulgent, tasty, or unnecessary foods and drinks.

Flavored seltzer is usually considered more of a taste-based drink rather than plain water. So if you are trying to observe Das Lakshan with seriousness, it is better to avoid it.

Spiritual Understanding

The spirit of Das Lakshan is not only about avoiding certain foods, but about reducing attachment to taste, comfort, and desire. Choosing plain water instead of flavored drinks supports sanyam — self-restraint.

Takeaway

If you are observing a strict fast or tapasya, avoid flavored seltzer and drink only what your vow permits. If you are not fasting strictly, it may not be a formal violation, but spiritually, plain water is the better choice during Das Lakshan.