In Jainism, especially among the Shwetambar sect, it is a traditional practice to perform the Panchkār (or Panchkāl) Vidhi before the commencement of the holy festival of Paryushan. The Panchkar Vidhi is a ritual of purification and preparation, aimed at seeking forgiveness and purifying the environment and oneself before entering the sacred period of Paryushan.

What is Panchkar Vidhi?

"Panchkar" literally means "five actions/steps." The ritual typically involves the following five purifications:

1. Dev Shuddhi (Purification of the place of worship)
2. Guru Shuddhi (Purification relating to spiritual teachers)
3. Shastra Shuddhi (Purification of scriptures)
4. Pujari Shuddhi (Purification of the worshipper)
5. Dravya Shuddhi (Purification of the substances used in worship)

Purpose

• Purification: To cleanse the mind, body, and surroundings, making them auspicious for the spiritual practices of Paryushan.
• Atonement: To seek forgiveness for any mistakes made in the previous year.
• Preparation: To mentally and spiritually prepare for the intense period of self-discipline, introspection, and spiritual upliftment during Paryushan.

How is it Performed?

• The community or family gathers together.
• The rituals are performed in front of the idol of a Tirthankara, usually with the guidance of a Jain monk or learned layperson.
• Prayers, hymns, mantras, and recitation of certain sutras (like the Pratikraman Sutra) are included.
• Sometimes, the ritual includes a symbolic cleaning of the temple and its objects.

Significance

Performing Panchkar Vidhi helps set the right intention and sanctity for the observance of Paryushan, the most important spiritual festival in Jainism, focused on forgiveness, penance, and self-purification.

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In summary: Panchkar Vidhi before Paryushan is a preparatory purification ritual, emphasizing the Jain values of cleanliness, humility, and readiness for spiritual elevation during Paryushan.