Why do we do 8 upavas?

Short answer “8 upvaas” (Aathai/Atthai) means fasting for eight continuous days. Jains do it mainly to stop and shed karmas (samvar and nirjara) through tap (austerity), deepen self‑control, and purify the passions (krodh, maan, maya, lobh). It is often observed during the 8 days of Paryushan (Shwetambar) but can be done at other times too.

Why specifically eight?

• Symbolic purification of the eight types of karmas (ashta‑karma) that bind the soul.
• Alignment with Paryushan’s eight days, a period focused on repentance, study, and forgiveness.
• Honor to the “eight-fold” themes seen in Jain tradition (like ashta‑mangalas, ashta‑prakari puja), reminding the devotee to cultivate many virtues together.

Scriptural grounding (kept simple)

• Fasting is one of the external austerities within the 12 tapas described in Jain texts.
• Its aim is inner purity, not bodily hardship: reducing intake helps calm the mind, soften passions, and support pratikraman, svadhyaya, samayik, and forgiveness.

How it is practiced (maryada in brief)

• Complete fast each day (only boiled water within prescribed daylight hours), with proper pachchakkhan (vow), daily pratikraman/alochana, and kayotsarg.
• Maintain truthfulness, humility, and non‑violence in thought, word, and deed; avoid show or competition; end with proper parna as per maryada.

Tradition notes

• Shwetambar: commonly linked with the 8 days of Paryushan; many observe Aathai then.
• Digambar: Das‑Lakshan spans 10 days; Atthai Tap (8‑day fast) is also respected as a powerful austerity.
• Both traditions agree the purpose is samvar‑nirjara and cultivation of uttam tapa (supreme austerity).

Essence We do 8 upvaas to cleanse karma, master the self, and awaken compassion and forgiveness—using the number eight as a disciplined, symbolic framework to intensify sadhana while preserving the true aim: inner transformation and ahiṃsā.