Nandavart (Nandyāvarta) is one of the Ashta‑Mangal — the eight very auspicious Jain symbols. Its importance in Jain Dharma is:

• What it is: A complex, large swastika‑like figure with many angular turns. It is traditionally described as having nine corners, so it reminds the devotee of “nav” (nine) kinds of prosperity and auspiciousness grounded in dharma, not mere wealth.

• Core meaning (arth): It signifies ever‑growing spiritual prosperity, auspicious expansion of right faith, and the steady movement of the soul towards the center (Self) despite many turns in saṃsāra. It is a wish for lasting maṅgal — purity of vision, conduct, and inner joy.

• Place within Ashta‑Mangal:

- Shvetāmbara and Digambara traditions list the eight symbols with small differences, but both include Nandavart. Thus, its auspicious place is accepted across traditions. - It is drawn or displayed with the other maṅgalas during pujas, Pratiṣṭhā, Janma/Deekṣā/Mokṣa Kalyāṇaks, and festive occasions.

• How it is used in practice:

- Drawn with rice, sandal, or rangoli during temple and home rituals to invoke śubhatā (auspiciousness). - Placed near kalasha, siṃhāsana/bhadra āsana, and other maṅgalas during Ashta‑prakāri Pūjā to create a pure, focused worship space. - Seen in Jina‑pādukā/āyāgapaṭṭa and sacred decorations as a reminder to expand virtues in all directions.

• What it reminds the sādhaka:

- Prosperity is truly auspicious only when it supports ahiṃsā, satya, and saṃyam. - Keep progressing despite life’s “turns,” staying centered in samyak‑darśan, jñān, and chāritra.

For a simple overview of Ashta‑Mangal with Nandavart, see this short explainer from JainKnowledge: