In Jainism, upvaas (fasting) is an important austerity. There are different types of upvaas based on the level of restriction observed. Two commonly referred types are Tivihaar Upvaas and Chauvihaar Upvaas.

Tivihaar Upvaas (Three-fold Abstinence)

• Definition: In Tivihaar Upvaas, a person abstains from all solid foods, but is allowed to consume only water.
• Water Restrictions: Water can be consumed, but only between sunrise and sunset (i.e., during daylight hours).
• What is Avoided: No solid or liquid foods except water.
• Intention: This is considered a relatively milder form of upvaas compared to Chauvihaar.

Chauvihaar Upvaas (Four-fold Abstinence)

• Definition: In Chauvihaar Upvaas, a person abstains from all food and water.
• Water Restrictions: No water is consumed at all—complete abstinence from both solid and liquid foods, including water.
• Duration: Typically observed from sunset of the previous day to sunrise of the next day (i.e., one whole night and day).
• Intention: This is a stricter, more austere form of upvaas.

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Summary Table:

| Type | Food Allowed | Water Allowed | Severity | |-------------------|-------------|--------------------------|-----------| | Tivihaar Upvaas | No | Yes (during daylight) | Moderate | | Chauvihaar Upvaas | No | No | Strict |

These practices are undertaken for self-purification and spiritual upliftment, and are important in observing Jain vows of non-attachment and self-control.