Why Do Shvetambar and Digambar Sects Celebrate the Same Festival Differently?
In India, followers of Jainism are mainly divided into two sects — Shvetambar and Digambar. Both aim for the purification of the soul, non-violence (Ahimsa), and forgiveness, but due to differences in traditions, practices, and scriptures, their way and duration of celebrating festivals vary. The best example of this is the celebration of Paryushan Parva and Das Lakshan Parva.
1. Paryushan Parva in the Shvetambar Sect
In the Shvetambar tradition, Paryushan begins on the 5th day of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) of the Bhadrapada month and lasts for eight days. During this time, devotees observe fasting, prayers, meditation, and study of the Agam scriptures.
The most important day of this festival is Samvatsari (Forgiveness Day). On the eighth day, all Jains say “Micchami Dukkadam” to each other, which means — “If I have caused you harm knowingly or unknowingly, I seek your forgiveness.”
Another key highlight of this festival in the Shvetambar community is the reading of the Kalpa Sutra, which narrates the life and teachings of Lord Mahavira.
2. Das Lakshan Parva in the Digambar Sect
In the Digambar tradition, this festival is celebrated as Das Lakshan Mahaparva, lasting for ten days. Each day is dedicated to one of the Ten Virtues (Laxanas of Dharma):
Kshama (Forgiveness)
Mardava (Humility)
Arjava (Straightforwardness)
Shauch (Purity/Contentment)
Satya (Truth)
Samyam (Self-restraint)
Tap (Austerity)
Tyag (Renunciation)
Akinchanya (Detachment)
Brahmacharya (Celibacy)
At the end of the festival, Digambar Jains observe Kshamavani Day, where people forgive each other and resolve all disputes with humility.
3. Why is There a Difference?
The primary reason for the difference lies in scriptures and traditions:
Shvetambar Sect: Follows the Agam texts and Kalpa Sutra, which prescribes an eight-day celebration.
Digambar Sect: Follows the teachings of Acharyas and the Das Lakshan Sutra, making it a ten-day festival.
4. What is Common?
Despite differences, the essence remains the same in both sects:
Self-reflection and meditation
Liberation from sinful deeds
Purification of the soul through fasting and discipline
Forgiveness and harmony through Kshamavani
5. Festival Dates in 2025
Shvetambar Sect: Paryushan Parva will be celebrated from 21st August to 28th August 2025.
Digambar Sect: Das Lakshan Parva will be celebrated from 28th August to 6th September 2025.
Although Shvetambar Paryushan and Digambar Das Lakshan differ in name, duration, and rituals, their core essence is the same — purification of the soul, penance, forgiveness, and walking on the path of truth. This is why both festivals are considered the great festivals of spiritual upliftment and forgiveness in Jainism.
- Religion World Bureau
