Answer

In Jain Dharma, during pooja we should touch the Pratima only according to the accepted maryada of that temple and tradition.

If you mean touching the cheeks of the Pratima as an expression of affection or faith, it is generally better not to do so. The Pratima represents the Arihant Paramatma in a sacred and worshipful form, so we should maintain reverence, purity, and discipline.

Explanation

Jain pooja is not based only on personal emotion. It is performed with:

• Vinay — humility and reverence
• Shuddhi — purity of body, mind, and materials
• Maryada — proper religious discipline
• Bhakti — devotion without possessiveness

In many Jain temples, touching the Pratima is limited to specific parts and specific rituals, such as while performing Abhishek, Anga Pooja, Chandan Pooja, or prescribed seva, depending on the tradition.

Casual touching of the face, cheeks, or other parts of the Pratima out of emotion is usually avoided, because the Pratima is not treated like an ordinary image or personal object.

Spiritual Understanding

True sparsh of Bhagwan is not physical touching. In Jain understanding, the deeper “touch” of the Lord is through:

• Samyak Darshan
• Vinay
• Purity of conduct
• Following the path shown by the Tirthankars
• Reducing attachment, ego, anger, and passions

Bhagwan is Vitarag — completely free from attachment and aversion. So our devotion should also become peaceful, disciplined, and pure.

Takeaway

Faith is very valuable, but in Jain pooja faith should be expressed with maryada. It is better to bow, do darshan, perform pooja properly, and follow the temple’s tradition rather than touching the cheeks of the Pratima.