Pachkhan to complete upavas
In Jainism, after completing an upavas (fasting for a day without food and sometimes water), it is customary to recite a Pachkhan (pratyakhyan or vow/affirmation) before breaking the fast. The Pachkhan is a formal statement of intent, reflecting discipline and awareness, and sets the boundaries for how one will break the fast.
A commonly recited Pachkhan before breaking upavas is as follows (in Hindi/Sanskrit with English transliteration and meaning):
---
Hindi/Sanskrit: "Ichchhakar Upvas Pura Karu Chhu, Aa Pachhi Aaj Shuddha Bhojan Gruhan Karis, Atyachar, Himsa, Kashaya, Vigrah Thi Door Rahi, Samyak Bhavthi Pachkhan Bandhu Chhu."
English Transliteration: "Ichchhakar upvas pura karu chhu, Aa pachhi aaj shuddha bhojan grahan karis, Atyachar, himsa, kashaya, vigrah thi door rahi, Samyak bhavthi pachkhan bandhu chhu."
Meaning in English: "I declare the completion of my upavas with full intention. Now, I will partake in pure food today. I vow to stay away from violence, anger, quarrels, and misconduct. With right intent, I take this pachkhan (vow/affirmation)."
---
How to Perform Pachkhan:
- Sit in a calm and respectful manner.
- Recite the Pachkhan aloud or in your mind, with focused intent.
- Express gratitude and seek forgiveness (pratikraman) for any lapses during the upavas.
- Only after reciting the Pachkhan, proceed to break the fast with appropriate food and drink, preferably with boiled water and simple, non-violent food.
Note: The language and exact wording of the Pachkhan may vary by region and Jain sect (Sthanakvasi, Terapanthi, Shwetambar, Digambar, etc.). If you follow a specific tradition, you may wish to consult with a Jain monk, nun, or elder for the precise version used in your community.
Example (short version):
"Aajno upvas pooro karu chhu. Aaj shuddh bhojan grahan karis, Himsa, asatya, chori, maithun ane parigrah thi door rahi, Samyak bhav thi pachkhan bandhu chhu."
Always recite the Pachkhan with sincerity and devotion.