Answer

In Jain Dharma, fasting can be done on many spiritually significant days, especially:

• Paryushan / Das Lakshan
• Ayambil Oli
• Ashtami — 8th lunar day
• Chaudas — 14th lunar day
• Poonam — full moon day
• Amavasya — new moon day
• Mahavir Janma Kalyanak
• Samvatsari

Explanation

Jain fasting is not limited to one fixed date. Devotees may fast according to their capacity, vows, tradition, and guidance from Guru Bhagwant.

Common types of fasting include:

• Upvas — complete fast, usually without food
• Ayambil — one simple tasteless meal
• Ekasana — eating once in one sitting
• Beasana — eating twice in fixed sittings
• Chauvihar — no food or water after sunset

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, fasting is not just avoiding food. Its purpose is to reduce attachment, control desires, practice self-discipline, and purify karma through inner awareness, repentance, and devotion.

Takeaway

Fasting can be done on special Jain tithis and festivals, but the most important part is doing it with right faith, humility, self-control, and spiritual intention.