Archive · 20 Sep 2026
Jain Devotees Turn To Digital Fasting During Paryushan
Some Jain devotees are trying a new kind of fast called E-Upvas.
Instead of only avoiding food, they also avoid phones and the internet.
This idea has been connected with the Jain festival of Paryushan.
In 2022, people in Madhya Pradesh observed a 24-hour digital fast.
Some even left their phones at a temple.
Paryushan encourages people to look inward and think about their actions.
It also emphasizes admitting mistakes and asking for forgiveness.
Digital fasting is seen as one way to reduce distractions and find inner peace.
Jain communities are exploring “E-Upvas,” or digital fasting, during Paryushan.
In 2022, devotees in Madhya Pradesh observed a 24-hour digital fast.
Participants avoided mobile phones and internet services during the fast.
Some devotees left their phones at a temple while observing the practice.
The practice reflects Paryushan’s focus on self-reflection, forgiveness and reducing inner disturbances.
- Who
- Jain devotees and communities.
- What
- They are experimenting with E-Upvas, a digital fast involving abstinence from mobile phones and internet services.
- When
- A documented 24-hour observance took place in 2022; the current timing of other observances is not specified.
- Where
- Madhya Pradesh, with some participants leaving their phones at a temple.
- Why
- The practice aligns with Paryushan’s emphasis on self-reflection, acknowledging mistakes, seeking forgiveness and reducing passions that disturb inner peace.
- Practice
- E-Upvas, or digital fasting
- Festival
- Paryushan
- Documented year
- 2022
- Duration
- 24 hours
- Location mentioned
- Madhya Pradesh
- Devices and services avoided
- Mobile phones and internet services
- Spiritual focus
- Self-reflection, forgiveness and inner peace