Prayushan Parv is one of the most important festivals in Jainism. It is celebrated primarily by the Shwetambar and Digambar sects, though with slight variations in duration and rituals.

Purpose and Significance:

• Spiritual Purification: Prayushan Parv is a time for self-purification, spiritual upliftment, and seeking forgiveness for past wrongdoings (kshamapana).
• Introspection: Jains focus on introspection, self-restraint (samyam), and penance (tapas), aiming to reduce and eliminate accumulated karma.
• Ahimsa and Forgiveness: The festival emphasizes the practice of non-violence (ahimsa), truth, and forgiveness (kshama), culminating in Michhami Dukkadam, where Jains seek forgiveness from all beings for any harm caused knowingly or unknowingly.
• Scripture Reading: During Prayushan, Jains read and listen to the sacred texts (Agamas for Shwetambars, Tattvartha Sutra and Kalpasutra recitation), and attend discourses to strengthen their understanding of Jain philosophy.
• Fasting and Austerities: Many Jains observe fasting (upvaas), dietary restrictions, and other austerities to discipline their mind and body.

Duration:

• For Shwetambar Jains: Prayushan lasts for eight days.
• For Digambar Jains: The festival is called Das Lakshan Parva and is celebrated for ten days.

Conclusion: Prayushan Parv is celebrated to renew one’s commitment to Jain principles, seek spiritual progress, ask for forgiveness, and purify the soul by reducing karmic bondage.