Why always nude

In Jainism, particularly in the Digambara (meaning "sky-clad") sect, monks practice nudity as a symbol of complete renunciation and non-attachment to material possessions. According to Digambara tradition, true ascetics must give up all possessions, including clothing, to attain liberation (moksha). Nudity represents their absolute detachment from worldly ties, ego, and desires.

This practice is based on the belief that only by renouncing everything external can one fully conquer inner passions and achieve spiritual purity. It is also considered a way to practice supreme non-violence (ahimsa), as wearing clothes might inadvertently cause harm to tiny living beings.

However, the other main Jain sect, the Śvetāmbara ("white-clad"), allows monks and nuns to wear simple white robes, interpreting the teachings differently. Both traditions share the core Jain values of non-attachment, non-violence, and self-discipline, but differ in their practices regarding clothing.