In Jainism, Paarna refers to the ceremonial breaking of a fast, especially after observing a long period of fasting. Mahavir Swami, the 24th Tirthankara, is renowned for his intense penances and long fasts as part of his spiritual practices.

According to Jain scriptures, after attaining keval-jnana (omniscience), Lord Mahavir continued to live a life of asceticism and would take food only once a day, that too from a single household, and only if the food met strict spiritual and ethical criteria.

One of the most significant events related to Paarna in the life of Mahavir Swami is his first meal after 4 months and 19 days of continuous fasting (according to some Jain traditions). This event is known as Ahar or Ahar-daan. After such a long fast, Mahavir Swami accepted food from a householder named Chandanbala. This moment is highly revered in Jain tradition and is seen as an example of supreme restraint, compassion, and the importance of non-attachment.

Chandanbala’s Ahar to Mahavir Swami is not only a historical event but also a symbolic lesson in Jainism about the virtues of patience, charity (daan), and purity of intention. The story is often narrated during Jain festivals and is an important part of Jain religious teachings.

In summary: Paarna of Mahavir Swami refers to the sacred and significant event when Lord Mahavir, after a long period of fasting, broke his fast by accepting food from Chandanbala. This event symbolizes spiritual victory, compassion, and the ideal of right conduct in Jainism.