What to eat during 8 days of paryushan

During Paryushan, which is one of the most important festivals in Jainism, followers focus on spiritual upliftment, self-purification, and non-violence (ahimsa). The dietary practices become more restrictive to minimize harm to living beings and to support the spirit of austerity.

General Guidelines for Eating During Paryushan:

1. Strict Vegetarian Diet:

Only pure vegetarian food is consumed. Jains avoid root vegetables (such as potatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, and beets) because uprooting the plant kills it and harms many small organisms in the soil.

1. No Green Vegetables:

Many Jains abstain from green leafy vegetables during Paryushan, as per tradition, to further minimize harm to living beings.

1. No Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (Varies):

In some sects, especially among Shwetambar Jains, eating fresh fruits and vegetables is also avoided. Only dry grains, pulses, and preserved foods are eaten.

1. No Fermented Foods:

Foods involving fermentation (like curd, yeast breads, and certain pickles) are avoided as they involve the generation of new life forms.

1. Avoiding Night Eating:

Traditionally, Jains do not eat after sunset to avoid accidental harm to microorganisms that are more active in the dark.

1. Simple Food:

The food is kept as simple as possible—lightly spiced, less oily, and without unnecessary extravagance.

1. Fasting:

Many Jains observe various types of fasts during Paryushan—from complete fasting (no food/water), to partial fasting (only boiled water, or a single meal a day).

1. Boiled Water Only:

Only boiled water is consumed, and that too within daylight hours.

Typical Foods Eaten During Paryushan:

• Plain rice
• Rotis made from wheat or other grains
• Lentils and pulses (dal) without onion/garlic
• Moong dal khichdi (without vegetables)
• Sabudana (sago) khichdi
• Dry fruits and nuts
• Milk and milk products (if not observing stricter fasts)
• Sweets made without root vegetables and fermentation

What to Avoid:

• Root vegetables (potato, onion, garlic, carrot, beet, radish, etc.)
• Leafy greens (spinach, methi, coriander, etc.)
• Fermented foods (yogurt, bread, idli, dosa, etc.)
• Processed and packaged foods with preservatives or hidden ingredients
• Any food or drink after sunset

Important Note: Practices may slightly differ between Shwetambar and Digambar traditions and also based on personal vows (vratas). It is always best to consult your local Jain temple, guru, or family elders for specific guidance.

Main Principle: Eat simple, pure, non-violent food, and focus on spiritual practices, self-control, and minimizing harm to all living beings.