Answer

In Jain Dharma, we do upwas to purify the soul, reduce attachment to the body and taste, control desires, and strengthen self-discipline.

Upwas is not just “not eating.” Its deeper purpose is to turn the mind toward the soul and away from worldly cravings.

Explanation

The word upwas means staying closer to the soul:

• Up means near.
• Was means to stay.

So, during upwas, a person tries to stay close to the true nature of the soul by practicing:

• self-control
• prayer
• samayik
• swadhyay
• repentance for mistakes
• less attachment to food and comfort

Spiritual Understanding

Upwas helps us understand that the soul is different from the body. Hunger may arise in the body, but the soul’s progress depends on inner purity, awareness, and control over passions like anger, pride, deceit, and greed.

When done with the right intention, upwas helps in:

• Reducing karmas
• Building willpower
• Controlling taste and desires
• Developing detachment
• Increasing devotion and spiritual focus

Takeaway

We should do upwas not for show, pride, or social praise, but for atma shuddhi — purification of the soul. True upwas is when the body fasts and the mind also becomes peaceful, humble, and focused on Dharma.