Introduction
During the monsoon months, many Jains seek to deepen their spiritual practices but often find it challenging to identify the key festivals and their significance. This lack of clarity can lead to missed opportunities for spiritual growth. By understanding the major Jain festivals celebrated during Chaturmas, individuals can align their actions with spiritual goals, fostering discipline and inner peace.
Understanding Chaturmas
Chaturmas, meaning “four months,” is a sacred period in Jainism observed during the monsoon season. From Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi (July 6, 2025) to Kartik Shukla Ekadashi (November 3, 2025), Jain monks and nuns stay in one place, intensifying their spiritual practices. For laypersons, it’s a time to engage in vows, fasting, and other religious activities to enhance spiritual growth.
Major Jain Festivals During Chaturmas
1. Paryushan Parva
- Dates (2025): August 20 – August 27
- Significance: Paryushan is the most important festival in Jainism, emphasizing introspection, repentance, and forgiveness.
- Observances: Fasting, prayer, scriptural readings, and meditation. The festival culminates in Samvatsari, the Day of Forgiveness, where Jains seek forgiveness from all living beings.
2. Samvatsari
- Date (2025): August 28
- Significance: Known as the Day of Forgiveness, Jains perform Pratikraman (introspection) and seek forgiveness for any harm caused during the year.
3. Das Lakshan Parva
- Dates (2025): August 28 – September 6
- Significance: Primarily observed by Digambara Jains, this ten-day festival focuses on ten virtues like forgiveness, humility, and self-restraint.
- Observances: Fasting, meditation, and studying scriptures to cultivate these virtues.
4. Anant Chaturdashi
- Date (2025): September 6
- Significance: Marks the conclusion of Das Lakshan Parva and is associated with Lord Vasupujya’s attainment of Moksha (liberation).
5. Kshamavani
- Date (2025): September 7
- Significance: Observed by Digambara Jains, it’s a day to seek and grant forgiveness, reinforcing the principle of non-violence.
6. Navpad Oli
- Dates (2025): September 29 – October 7
- Significance: A nine-day period dedicated to the worship of the Navpad (nine supreme posts).
- Observances: Fasting and meditation focusing on each of the nine entities.
7. jain Diwali
- Date (2025): October 20
- Significance: Commemorates Lord Mahavira’s attainment of Nirvana.
- Observances: Lighting lamps, reading scriptures, and reflecting on Mahavira’s teachings.
8. Gyan Panchami
- Date (2025): October 25
- Significance: Known as the Day of Knowledge, it’s dedicated to the worship of pure knowledge.
- Observances: Fasting, meditation, and worshipping scriptures.
Conclusion
Chaturmas is a period rich with festivals that offer Jains opportunities for spiritual growth, self-discipline, and community engagement. By actively participating in these festivals, individuals can deepen their understanding of Jain principles and foster a more compassionate and mindful life.
