The Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA) announced the successful observance of Paryushan and Das Lakshan, Jainism’s most significant annual festival, across the United States and Canada. The week-long period of reflection, fasting, prayer, and forgiveness was celebrated by thousands of Jain families in temples, community centers, and homes.
Throughout North America, Jains came together for daily prayers, scriptural discourses, meditation sessions, and acts of community service. Many observed fasting as a practice of discipline and self-reflection. The festival culminated in Kshamapana (forgiveness), with Jains humbly seeking and granting forgiveness, symbolized by the phrases “Micchami Dukkadam”, “Uttam Kshama”, and “Khamat Khamana”.
“Paryushan gives us a unique opportunity to pause, reflect, and renew ourselves with compassion and forgiveness,” said Bindesh Shah, President of JAINA. “Across North America, it was heartening to see Jains, young and old, come together to honor this tradition and strengthen our community bonds.”
As the umbrella organization for Jains in North America, JAINA continues to unite over 70 Jain centers and organizations, while promoting the timeless values of Jainism, such as Ahimsa (non-violence), Aparigraha (non-attachment), and Anekantavada (non-absolutism). In addition to preserving traditions, JAINA champions vegetarianism and veganism, mindfulness, and wellness initiatives that align with the Jain principles of non-violence and compassion.
The celebrations reaffirmed Jainism’s message of peace, forgiveness, and unity — values that hold relevance well beyond the Jain community.
About JAINA
Founded in 1981, JAINA is the largest Jain umbrella organization outside India, uniting over 70 Jain centers and organizations. JAINA is dedicated to promoting Jain principles, culture, and education while fostering unity among Jains across the continent.For more information, please visit: www.jaina.org
Leave a Reply