In Jainism, the tonsure ritual, known as “Kesh Lonch” or “Kesh Lochan,” is a traditional practice especially observed during the initiation ceremony for monks and nuns (diksha). In this ritual, the hair is plucked out by hand as a symbol of renunciation and detachment from worldly ties.

Regarding your specific question: hot sand is not applied to the head to ease hair plucking in the Jain tonsure ritual. The process is carried out without the use of any substances like hot sand, oils, or creams. The ritual is intended to be an austere act that cultivates endurance (tapasya) and non-attachment (vairagya). Any form of relief or ease, such as applying hot sand, is not part of the traditional Jain tonsure ritual.

The act is performed with solemnity and is meant to help the initiate embrace the principles of suffering and renunciation, following the example set by Lord Mahavira and other Jain ascetics.