In Jainism, pachhkhan (also spelled pachkhan or pachkhan) is a formal religious vow or declaration, often given or taken after certain rituals or austerities. After upavas (fasting, usually of one day or more), it is customary for a Jain to take pachhkhan before breaking the fast with food.

Purpose of Pachhkhan after Upavas:

• It is a way to reaffirm self-control and spiritual intent.
• The practitioner resolves to avoid certain foods, behaviors, or activities for a specific period (often until the next sunrise).
• It helps in maintaining discipline and preventing indulgence immediately after fasting.

Typical Pachhkhan after Upavas might include vows such as:

• Not to eat after sunset (observing ratri-bhojan tyag).
• Not to consume root vegetables, green vegetables, or other restricted foods.
• To practice samayik (period of meditation or equanimity) or other austerities.
• To avoid violence (ahimsa), lying, or other negative actions.

The Process:

1. After completing the upavas (fast), the practitioner cleanses themselves physically and mentally.
2. They approach a Jain monk/nun (sadhu/sadhvi) or, if unavailable, recite the pachhkhan in front of a Jain idol or at a holy place.
3. The pachhkhan is recited or repeated—usually in Prakrit, Gujarati, or other local languages—stating the specific vows being undertaken.
4. Only after taking pachhkhan is the fast broken with food, often starting with boiled water and simple, sattvic food.

Example Pachhkhan after Upavas (in simple language): "I resolve not to eat or drink anything after sunset, not to eat root vegetables, and to observe non-violence in thought, word, and deed, until sunrise tomorrow."

Importance: This practice fortifies one's commitment to Jain principles, extends the spiritual benefit of the fast, and integrates discipline into daily life.

If you would like the traditional pachhkhan text or its meaning in a particular language, please specify.