Kalpasutra (Kalpa-sūtra) — what it is

• A revered Jain scripture of the Shwetambar tradition, traditionally attributed to Acharya Bhadrabahu.
• It has three main parts:

1) Jina-charitra: concise life-sketches of the 24 Tirthankaras, with detailed focus on Bhagwan Mahavira (also Rishabhdev and Parshvanath). 2) Sthaviravali: lineage of early Jain acharyas after Mahavira. 3) Samachari/Kalpa: rules and procedures for monastic conduct, especially during Chaturmas.

Why it is important

• Preserves the life-ideals of the Tirthankaras: ahimsa, aparigraha, tapas, equanimity—giving devotees a clear model for right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct.
• Guides discipline: its Samachari section supports the purity of monastic life and inspires lay vows and restraint.
• Central in Paryushan: among Shwetambars it is publicly recited during Paryushan; the Janma Kalyanak (birth episode) of Bhagwan Mahavira is read with deep devotion, fostering repentance, forgiveness, and self-purification.
• Keeps the tradition connected: Sthaviravali links today’s sadhus-sadhvis and laypeople to the early acharyas, strengthening continuity of Jain Dharma.
• Cultural heritage: illuminated Kalpasutra manuscripts are a treasured part of Jain art and learning.

Notes on traditions

• Shwetambar: Kalpasutra is a key religious text and is ritually recited during Paryushan.
• Digambar: they revere the Tirthankaras and their charitra, but Kalpasutra is not part of their scriptural canon or liturgy.

For a simple overview and Paryushan context, see: and