Paryushana-parva is the holiest period of the year for the ascetic Shvetambara sect. Celebrated for eight days concluding on Samvatsari, it is a time fo dedication to Jain ideals through fasting, worship of the Jina, and reading the life-story of Lord Mahavira from the Kalpasutra. The degree of fasting and period of fasting depends on the individual, but it is considered obligatory to fast on the last day of Paryushana.
Description by Multifaith Calendar