Jain — observances and vrat guides

Jain fasting is rooted in ahimsa, self-restraint and reflection on one's conduct. Upvas, Ekasana, Ayambil and Posaha describe different disciplines, not different names for a single fast. Paryushana and Samvatsari bring repentance and forgiveness into focus; Navpad Oli centres reverence for the nine supreme spiritual categories. Digambara and Shwetambara communities can follow different festival schedules and practices. Food restrictions are equally important: avoiding roots and eating within the prescribed daylight period cannot be replaced by a general Hindu phalahar menu. These entries keep individual observances separate so that their austerities, dates and purpose remain visible.

The catalog currently includes 27 distinct entries in this collection. Examples are Mahavir Jayanti; Navpad Oli; Paryushana Parva; Paryushana Upvas; Samvatsari. Their recorded devotional focus includes Lord Mahavira (24th Tirthankara); Navpad — the 9 Supreme Elements; Lord Mahavira. Follow the individual links below for the full description, calendar dates, mantra and allowed or avoided foods; each link leads to a dedicated observance page rather than a search result.

Calendar dates are references, not a substitute for the observance rules of your chosen city and community. Lunar days can cross civil-date boundaries, and regional practice can change which day is kept. Meal suggestions are optional ideas for an allowed meal, not instructions to eat during a complete fast. Children, pregnant people and anyone with a medical condition should seek appropriate advice before fasting. Compare the linked guides with your family or temple's practice and choose a discipline suited to your health.

All 27 observances in this collection