Answer

Yes, many Jains do observe nirjal fasts, meaning fasting without food and without water.

Explanation

In Jain Dharma, fasting is practiced as a form of tapasya to reduce attachment to the body, control desires, and purify karma.

A nirjal fast may be observed during:

• Upvas – fasting for one day without food, often also without water
• Atthai – fasting for 8 days
• Masakshaman – fasting for about one month
• Paryushan and other holy periods

However, practices can vary by person, health, family tradition, and Jain sect.

Spiritual Understanding

The goal of fasting is not just physical hardship. In Jain Dharma, the true purpose is:

• self-control
• less attachment to taste and comfort
• repentance for past mistakes
• focus on prayer, swadhyay, and inner purity

Takeaway

Yes, Jains may fast nirjal, but fasting should be done with proper understanding, humility, and according to one’s health and capacity.