Answer

During Paryushan, whether one can drink nimbu paani depends on the level of observance and the guidance of one’s Jain tradition, family practice, or Guru.

In general:

• If you are doing a strict upvas, nimbu paani is usually not taken.
• If you are doing ayambil, nimbu paani is not allowed, because ayambil avoids taste-enhancing items.
• If you are doing a lighter form of fasting or dietary restraint, some families may allow plain water, boiled water, or limited liquids, but this should be confirmed according to your practice.

Explanation

Paryushan is a time for self-control, simplicity, tapasya, and inner purification. The purpose is not only to avoid certain foods, but to reduce attachment to taste and comfort.

Nimbu paani has taste and can be considered a refreshing or flavor-enhancing drink. Therefore, in many traditional Paryushan observances, especially during strict fasting or ayambil, it is avoided.

Spiritual Understanding

The spirit of Paryushan is:

• to reduce desire for taste,
• to practice discipline,
• to purify thoughts, speech, and actions,
• to focus more on samayik, pratikraman, forgiveness, and dharma.

So even if something is technically permitted in a lighter observance, the higher spirit is to keep the diet simple and restrained.

Takeaway

If you are observing a strict Paryushan fast or ayambil, avoid nimbu paani. If your observance is lighter, follow your family tradition or ask your Guru/Maharaj Saheb/Sadhviji for proper guidance.