Paryushana is the most important
annual holy event for Jains and is usually celebrated in August or September in
Hindi calendar Bhadrapad Month's Shukla Paksha. Jains increase their level of
spiritual intensity often using fasting and prayer/meditation to help. The five
main vows are emphasized during this time. There are no set rules, and
followers are encouraged to practice according to their ability and desires.
In some Indian States, slaughter
houses are kept closed for 1–8 days during the Paryushana festival. It is done
in states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, that have large population of
the Jain community. On 14 March 2008, The Supreme Court of India held that the
ban on slaughter houses in Ahmedabad during Paryushan festival is legal.
Meaning
Paryushana means "abiding and
coming together". It is a time when the Jains take on vows of study and
fasting.
Observance
During the eight-day festival, the Svetambara Murtipujakas recite the Kalpa Sutra, which includes a recitation of the section on birth of Mahavira on the fifth day.