Jains observe forgiveness day

Micchami Dukkadam, a Jain ritual, is celebrated on the last day of Paryusana which begins on the fifth day of the shukla phase of the Bhadrapada month. The ritual was observed on Friday

Forgiveness is the supreme act of courage. It is an act of faith and humility. It liberates the parties involved and encourages them to move on and build a new tomorrow. However, it is very difficult to execute.

‘To err is human’ is a very old saying and applies to everyone. Everybody commits mistakes. But when forgiven, they get another chance to start their life again, on a better path.

Micchami Dukkadam is a Jain ritual practised on Samvatsari – the last day of Paryushan. It is a day to ask for forgiveness and to forgive all in the universe. The ritual was observed on Friday.

Jains are followers of Lord Mahavir and Paryusana is one of their most ritualistic and famous festivals. It is an 8-10 day festival and Samvatsari marks the last day.

Paryusana is celebrated on Panchami or the fifth day of the shukla phase of the auspicious Bhadrapada month. According to Jain scriptures, Lord Mahavira used to start Paryushana on this day and it is known as Kshamavani Day.

Michhami Dukkadam is an ancient Prakrit phrase meaning “I beg your forgiveness”. People visit their friends and relatives to greet “Michhami Dukkadam” and pledge that no private dispute or quarrel may be taken beyond this day of Samvatsari. There is some debate over whether saying the phrase before Samvatsari means more than waiting for the day itself to say it.

During this occasion people fast the whole day and greet other members of their family and give or take forgiveness for their acts in the past year. For Jains it is a day to forget bitter experiences and nasty offences of the past with Uttam Kshama or supreme forgiveness.

These days, it has also become a trend to exchange messages, send online cards asking for forgiveness. It is held that Kshamavani should be observed with a pure and humble heart for an Uttam Kshama.