Answer

Yes, generally water can be taken during Maun Athai, unless the person has taken a specific vow of chauvihar, upvas, or another stricter niyam that restricts water.

Explanation

Maun Athai mainly means observing maun vrat — silence — for eight days. Its primary focus is:

• Controlling speech
• Reducing unnecessary communication
• Increasing inner awareness
• Supporting dhyan, swadhyay, and spiritual discipline

So, drinking water is not automatically forbidden just because one is doing Maun Athai.

However, the rule depends on the personal vow taken:

• If you have taken only maun, you may drink water.
• If you have taken chauvihar, then no food or water after sunset.
• If you have taken a stricter tapasya with water restrictions, then follow that niyam.

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, tapasya should be done with right understanding and carefulness. The purpose of Maun Athai is not just to stop speaking, but to purify the mind, reduce passions, and become more aware of the soul.

Takeaway

If your Maun Athai vow is only for silence, you can drink water. But if you took additional niyams, follow those rules carefully and ask your guru, sadhu-sadhviji, or knowledgeable elder for guidance.