What to Eat in Paryushan Fasting: Paryushan is more than just a religious observance—it’s a time for self-discipline, reflection, and purification. For Jains, food plays a crucial role in this practice, as dietary discipline aligns with the principles of Ahimsa (non-violence) and self-restraint. The fasting and food restrictions during Paryushan aren’t just about avoiding certain foods; they are about simplifying eating habits and maintaining purity in thoughts and actions.
If you’re wondering what to eat (or avoid) during Paryushan fasting, this guide will help you understand the rules, meal options, and the best way to sustain yourself while staying true to the spirit of the festival.
General Food Guidelines for Paryushan
During Paryushan, the focus is on pure, simple, and easily digestible food. Here are the basic guidelines:
- No root vegetables – This includes potatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, radish, and anything that grows underground.
- No fermented or processed foods – Bread, vinegar, and yogurt with active cultures are avoided.
- No food after sunset – Meals must be consumed before dusk to maintain digestive discipline.
- Only boiled water – Water should be pre-boiled and consumed at specific intervals.
By following these guidelines, you ensure that your diet remains light, sattvic (pure), and non-violent, which is essential for spiritual growth during Paryushan.
What to Eat During a Tuesday Fast
Foods Allowed During Paryushan Fasting
Even with food restrictions, there are plenty of wholesome options available:
Simple Grains & Pulses
✔ Rice, wheat, lentils, moong dal, chickpeas (prepared simply, without excess oil or spices).
Fruits & Nuts
✔ Apples, bananas, dry fruits, almonds, raisins (fresh and unprocessed).
Dairy Products (Depending on fasting rules)
✔ Milk, curd, paneer – if included in your fasting practice.
Boiled or Steamed Vegetables
✔ Bottle gourd, ridge gourd, pumpkin, spinach – prepared without garlic, onion, or excessive seasoning.
Minimal Spices & Salt
✔ If needed, rock salt can be used sparingly.
These foods keep you nourished while maintaining the simplicity and purity of your meals.
Types of Fasting and What to Eat
Different types of fasting are observed during Paryushan, each with its own food restrictions.
1. Upvas (Complete Fast)
- Only boiled water at specific times.
- No solid food throughout the day.
2. Ekasana (One Meal a Day)
- A single, simple meal – usually rice, dal, or fruits.
- No snacking or additional meals.
3. Biyasana (Two Meals a Day)
- Two light meals without processed or heavy foods.
- Simple khichdi, dal-rice, or steamed vegetables.
4. Ayambil (Plain Meal)
- One meal without spices, ghee, or salt.
- Very basic foods like plain khichdi or roti with boiled dal.
5. Chauvihar (No Food or Water After Sunset)
- Meals must be consumed before sunset.
- No water or food after dusk.
Each type of fasting is a step toward self-control, detachment, and spiritual discipline.
Tuesday Fasting: What to Eat, What Not to Eat, and How to Do It Right
Sample Meals for Paryushan Fasting
Even with restrictions, you can still have nutritious, energy-sustaining meals.
Breakfast Options
✔ Warm milk with almonds and raisins
✔ Fresh fruits (banana, apple, dates)
✔ Plain boiled rice
Lunch Options
✔ Khichdi (made with moong dal and minimal spices)
✔ Plain dal with rice
✔ Steamed vegetables with roti
Dinner Options (if permitted)
✔ Light meal before sunset (roti with dal or a simple fruit salad)
Snacks (if allowed)
✔ Dry fruits, soaked almonds, dates
These meals nourish the body while keeping the fasting spirit intact.
Drinks Allowed During Paryushan Fasting
Staying hydrated is essential, but even drinks follow strict rules.
✔ Only boiled water – cooled and consumed at fixed intervals
✔ Fresh fruit juices – if permitted in fasting rules
✔ Buttermilk – for those who include dairy
Avoid tea, coffee, and aerated drinks, as they disrupt fasting purity.
Foods to Avoid During Paryushan
🚫 Root vegetables – Potatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, radish
🚫 Fermented foods – Bread, vinegar, yogurt with active cultures
🚫 Processed or packaged foods
🚫 Spicy, fried, or rich foods
🚫 Tea, coffee, and aerated drinks
By avoiding these foods, you maintain the purity of ingredients and intention behind fasting.
What to Eat During a Thursday Fast
How to Break the Fast (Parna Vidhi)
Breaking a fast requires careful reintroduction of food to avoid digestive discomfort.
- Start with boiled water or fresh juice to awaken digestion.
- Eat light foods like khichdi, dal-rice, or fresh fruits.
- Avoid overeating to prevent digestive issues.
Breaking the fast gradually and mindfully helps maintain its spiritual benefits.
Conclusion
Paryushan fasting isn’t just about what you eat, but how you eat. Mindful eating, self-discipline, and choosing pure foods help cleanse both the body and mind. Even after Paryushan ends, the essence of this practice—purity, simplicity, and self-awareness—can continue to shape your food choices.
By following these dietary principles, you’re not just fasting; you’re nurturing your spiritual well-being.
