South Daytona, FL – September 6, 2025 — 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.
Across North America, Jain communities gathered for daily prayers, scriptural discourses, meditation sessions, and acts of community service. Many devotees observed fasting as a practice of discipline and self-reflection. The festival concluded with Kshamapana, the act of forgiveness, where Jains humbly sought and granted forgiveness, symbolized through 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 Mr. 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 more than 70 Jain centers and organizations, while promoting the timeless values of Jainism: Ahimsa (non-violence), Aparigraha (non-attachment), and Anekantavada (non-absolutism). Beyond preserving traditions, the organization also champions vegetarianism and veganism, mindfulness practices, and wellness initiatives that align with Jain principles of compassion and non-violence.
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The celebrations underscored Jainism’s enduring message of peace, forgiveness, and unity — values that resonate not only within the Jain community but also with the wider world.
Founded in 1981, JAINA has grown to become the largest Jain umbrella organization outside of India. Today, it serves as a guiding force in promoting Jain principles, culture, and education, while fostering unity and engagement among Jains across North America.