Pratikraman during Paryushan is essential in Jain Dharma because it is the time set aside every year for deep repentance, purification, and renewal of our vows.

What Pratikraman means

• “Pratikraman” = to return/backtrack from faults; it is confession (ālochana), repentance (pratikraman), and resolve not to repeat (pratyākhyān).
• It is one of the six daily Avashyak duties for Jains.

Why especially during Paryushan/Das‑Lakshan

• Focused purification: These days are meant for intense self‑inspection, so our repentance becomes deeper and more effective (nirjarā of past karmas and samvar of new karmas).
• Annual atonement: Even if daily/prākritik pratikraman was missed, Samvatsari/Kshamā‑vāṇī pratikraman ensures we at least once a year fully confess, repent, and take fresh vows.
• Protection of vows: We review and repair lapses in Anuvrat, Guṇvrat, and Śikṣāvrat, and restrain kashāyas (anger, pride, deceit, greed).
• Ahimsā in action: We ask forgiveness from all living beings (Michhami Dukkadam) and cultivate universal friendship and humility.
• Scriptural study and mindfulness: Along with svādhyāy and samayik, pratikraman aligns our conduct with right faith, knowledge, and conduct.

According to traditions

• Shvetāmbara: Paryushan (8/10 days) culminates in Samvatsari Pratikraman; then we say “Michhami Dukkadam.”
• Digambara: Das‑Lakshan (10 days) centers each day on one supreme virtue; forgiveness day (Kshamā‑vāṇī) emphasizes universal pardon and inner cleansing.

Practical benefits

• Cleanses guilt and calms the mind.
• Weakens passions and strengthens self‑control.
• Repairs relationships through genuine forgiveness.
• Sets the tone for righteous living for the coming year.

For simple explanations and steps, see:

• Importance of Pratikraman
• Importance and purpose of Paryushan/Das‑Lakshan

Michhami Dukkadam to all.