Chauvihar Upvas - Jain penance

Chauvihar Upvas is a strict form of fasting where the practitioner abstains from all four types of intake: food, water, betel (tambul), and any other consumable from sunset to the next day's sunrise (or longer). It is considered one of the highest forms of external austerity (Bahya Tapa).

Fasting disciplines the body and mind, burns away karmic matter, and strengthens willpower. It is a voluntary act of self-purification.

Also called

चौविहार उपवास

Kind of practice

Penance

Difficulty

Advanced

When

Anytime

Suitable for

Adults

How it is done

1. Make a resolve (Sankalp) before starting.

2. After sunset, do not consume anything — food, water, or medicine.

3. Spend the day in prayer, meditation, and scripture study.

4. Break the fast (Parana) at the designated time with simple food.

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