Answer

After Maskhaman, Parna should be done gently, respectfully, and in a way that does not shock the body. Traditionally, Parna is done after offering devotion, doing forgiveness, and taking very light, suitable food or drink first.

How to Do Parna Properly

• Begin with devotion: Do darshan, bow to Arihant Bhagwan, Siddha Bhagwan, Guru, and Dharma with humility.
• Do pratikraman or forgiveness: Ask for forgiveness through Michchhami Dukkadam and maintain a peaceful state of mind.
• Take blessings: If possible, take blessings from a sadhu-sadhvi, guru, or elders.
• Break the fast slowly: Do not eat heavy food immediately.
• Start with light intake: Traditionally, Parna may begin with suitable boiled water or a light liquid, depending on family and sampraday tradition.
• Eat small amounts: Take only a little at first. Let the body adjust.
• Avoid heavy, oily, spicy, fried, or very sweet foods: These can disturb digestion after such long fasting.
• Eat with awareness: Maintain gratitude, restraint, and calmness. Parna is not indulgence; it is a disciplined return to food.

Important Practical Care

After Maskhaman, the body can be very sensitive. It is wise to:

• Follow the guidance of your Guru or local Jain tradition.
• Consult a doctor or experienced person if you feel weakness, dizziness, vomiting, severe acidity, or abnormal symptoms.
• Avoid overeating even if you feel hungry.
• Continue eating simple and light food for a few days.

Spiritual Understanding

Parna is not just “eating after fasting.” In Jain Dharma, it is a sacred completion of tapasya. The right attitude is:

• Humility, not pride.
• Gratitude, not celebration of taste.
• Self-control, not overeating.
• Forgiveness and inner purity.

Takeaway

Do Parna after Maskhaman with devotion, forgiveness, Guru’s guidance, and very light food. The spiritual goal is to complete the tapasya with humility, awareness, and continued restraint.