Kshamavani: The Jain festival of forgiveness

Jainism and all other religions share a common goal – the welfare of the self, human beings, and all living creatures. At its core, Jainism emphasises non-violence, non-attachment, and forgiveness. This ancient faith operates on the scientific principle of karma, where individuals are their own creators and do not subscribe to the authority of a god. A daily practice among followers involves seeking forgiveness from all living beings through a ritual known as Pratikraman.One of the most significant festivals in Jainism is Paryushan, also known as Dashalakshana Dharma. Celebrated with devotion during the month of Bhadrapada, this festival centres on ten fundamental virtues: Uttam Kshama, forgiveness; Uttam Mardava, humility; Uttam Arjava, honesty; Uttam Shaucha, cleanliness; Uttam Truth, truthfulness; Uttam Restraint, self-control; Uttam Tapa, austerity; Uttam Tyag, renunciation; Uttam Akinchan, non-possessiveness; and Uttam Brahmacharya, celibacy.During Paryushan, Jainism encourages followers to reflect on their conduct in the light of these fundamental virtues. Paryushan concludes with a special festival known as Kshamavani on Ashwin Krishna Ekam. Also known as Forgiveness Day, on this day, Jain followers, without any hesitation, seek forgiveness from one another for known and unknown mistakes. It is a festival of spiritual reform, symbolising the power of forgiveness in mind, words, and deeds.Dashalakshana Dharma begins with Uttam Kshama Dharma and concludes few days later with Kshamavani. It is said that just by practising forgiveness, all the virtues start assimilating in you, automatically. On the day of Uttam Kshama Dharma, we do self-study and try to work on simplicity, purity, and detachment, and on Kshamavani, remove the impurity of the mind and practise forgiveness.Kshamavani is a unique festival that provides an opportunity to reflect on the harm caused knowingly or unknowingly to others and facilitates the resolution of ongoing enmities and grudges. Atonement for past mistakes and a commitment to avoid future transgressions contribute to personal development. This festival stands as an exceptional example in the history of celebrations, as it focuses on inner purification and healing.Forgiveness is not a sign of weakness but rather a symbol of strength. It transcends anger and retaliation, fostering mental and spiritual growth. In some cases, not retaliating can also be considered an act of forgiveness, considering the mental state of the other person.Bhagwan Mahavir says, “Koho piyapana sai.” Anger destroys love. The only way to overcome anger is forgiveness. This is a way to gain mental peace. Forgiveness removes animosity and the mind becomes light.Practising forgiveness gives double benefit: it liberates the other person from self-guilt and removes the distances in the heart, creating a comfortable environment.Forgiveness is a self-refining quality that everyone needs because we all make mistakes. Everyone should have the right to admit their mistake and correct it; it is in this spirit that we observe Kshamavani.September 30 is Kshamavani Parv