Michhāmi Dukkadam is a Jain practice of asking forgiveness for any harm we may have caused, on thoughts, words, or deeds. If you’re not Jain and someone says this to you, a simple, respectful reply is to acknowledge the sentiment and wish harmony in return.

Ways you can reply as a non‑Jain:

• Michhāmi Dukkadam. If I have hurt you in any way, knowingly or unknowingly, please forgive me.
• I forgive you. May we all live in peace and mutual respect.
• Michhāmi Dukkadam. Please forgive me for any hurt I may have caused; I wish you well-being and peace.

Notes:

• This phrase is most commonly used during Paryushan or Samvatsari, but the spirit of forgiveness can be shared anytime to heal relationships. Different Jain traditions (Śvetāmbara and Digambara) have their own festival names for repentance (Samvatsari vs. Kshamāvāṇī), but the underlying idea is the same. You can respond with goodwill and a simple acknowledgment of forgiveness.

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