Paryushan (often written Paryuṣaṇ) is the most important annual festival in Jainism. It is a dedicated period for inner purification, self-discipline, and spiritual renewal.

Key points:

• Duration and traditions

- Śvetāmbara Jains observe Paryushan for 8 days. - Digambara Jains observe a similar period called Das Lakṣaṇ Parva for 10 days, focusing each day on one supreme virtue.

• Main practices

- Fasting or eating very simply, study of Jain scriptures, daily prayers, meditation, and increased self-control. - Confession of past faults and seeking forgiveness (pratikraman).

• End of the festival

- Śvetāmbara: Samvatsari Pratikraman and the forgiveness ritual called Michhami Dukkadam. - Digambara: Kshamavani (forgiveness) is emphasized, often with the vow to forgive others.

• Meaning and aim

- The name suggests coming together or staying close to the spiritual path, turning attention inward to purify the soul and reduce karmic bondage. - It is a time to strengthen right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct, and to renew commitments to non-violence, truth, and compassion.

Simple summary: Paryushan is a sacred eight- to ten-day period of intensified prayer, fasting, study, repentance, and forgiveness, ending with rituals of asking and granting forgiveness to all beings.

You can read more here and learn about its significance and duties from the JainKnowledge pages. ( jainknowledge.com)