Answer

In Jain tradition, it is generally best not to wear leather shoes to a Prarthana Sabha.

If you are attending a Jain prayer gathering, you should ideally wear non-leather footwear and remove footwear before entering the prayer or worship area, as per the place’s custom.

Explanation

Leather comes from animal skin, so it is connected with himsa. Since Jain Dharma gives great importance to ahimsa, leather items are generally avoided in religious settings such as:

• Prarthana Sabha
• Derasar or temple
• Pathshala
• Samayik or Pratikraman place
• Religious discourses and rituals

Even if the shoes are removed outside, wearing leather to a sacred or prayerful gathering is usually considered inappropriate by many Jains.

Spiritual Understanding

A Prarthana Sabha is a place of prayer, reflection, and respect. Avoiding leather helps maintain a spirit of:

• Ahimsa
• Purity
• Reverence
• Sensitivity toward all living beings

Takeaway

For a Jain Prarthana Sabha, choose simple non-leather footwear. It is a respectful and spiritually mindful choice aligned with Jain values.