Pratikraman means “returning from (pra­ti) past mistakes (atikrama)”—coming back to the right path. In Jain Dharma we do Pratikraman to keep our mind, speech and actions pure every day.

Why we do Pratikraman

• To stop new karmas (samvara): by reflecting on the day, we become alert and avoid repeating wrong actions.
• To shed old karmas (nirjara): sincere repentance and restraint lightens the bondage of past karmas.
• To purify conduct and vows: we review lapses in the five vows (non‑violence, truth, non‑stealing, celibacy, non‑possessiveness) and resolve to keep them better.
• To cultivate forgiveness and equanimity: by asking and giving forgiveness, anger and hostility dissolve; inner peace grows.
• To strengthen right faith (samyak‑darshan): regular self‑examination keeps our spiritual goal clear.

What it includes (in simple terms)

• Samayik: sitting in equanimity.
• Stuti/Namaskar of the 24 Tirthankars (Chaturvimsati‑stava).
• Vandana: respectful salutation to monks/nuns or the ideals they represent.
• Alochana: honest confession of faults.
• Pratikraman proper: repentance for transgressions and recalling specific lapses.
• Pratyakhyan: firm resolve not to repeat them.
• Kayotsarga: stillness of body with focused awareness.

When we do it

• Daily: evening (Devasi) and morning (Pratah).
• Periodic: fortnightly (Pakshik), four‑monthly (Chaumasi), and yearly.
• Annual forgiveness: Shwetambar tradition observes Samvatsari Pratikraman during Paryushan; Digambar tradition observes Kshamavani after Das‑Lakshan Parva. On this day we say “Michhami Dukkadam” (please forgive me) to all.

Notes on traditions

• Shwetambar Pratikraman follows the Avashyaka sequence and sutras in Ardhamagadhi/Prakrit.
• Digambar Pratikraman follows its own vidhi with the same core aims—repentance, resolve, and stillness—though the texts and order may differ.
• The spiritual essence in both is the same: awareness, repentance, restraint, and forgiveness.

Practical fruits you can feel

• More mindfulness in daily choices.
• Softer speech and fewer conflicts.
• Lighter heart through asking/giving forgiveness.
• Steadier progress on the path to liberation.

If you wish to read a simple overview of Pratikraman and Paryushan/Das‑Lakshan, see this reference from JainKnowledge: