Kshamavani is a day of forgiveness observed by the followers of Jainism. It falls on the first day of Ashvin Krishna month of the lunar-based Jain calendar. While, Swetambara, a sect of Jains celebrate the day on Samvatsari, the last day of the annual Paryushana festival; Digambaras celebrate it on the first day of Ashvin Krishna month of the Jain calendar. Kshamavani 2019 falls on September 12. The observance coincides with Anant Chaturthi, the fourth day of Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Bhadra. Jains seek forgiveness for intentional and unintentional hurt they caused to others and say 'Micchami Dukkadam'. The phrase means 'May all the evil that has been done be fruitless'. Kshamavani Parva celebrates forgiveness or the act of forgiving. It encourages people to let go of grudges against each other and live a life of peace, love, harmony and friendship. People also send Uttam Kshama messages to people seeking forgiveness.

While Samvatsari is associated with Shwetambar sect, Kshamavaani is associated with Digambara. Although both observe forgiveness day, there is a major difference. Both Samvatsari and Kshamavaani fall on the last day of Paryushan, but are two different days. While Samvatsari, the last day of the annual Paryushana festival, is observed on Shukla Panchami of Bhadrapada month by the Shwetambars, the Digambaras celebrate it on the first day of Ashvin Krishna month as per the lunar-based Jain calendar. Kshamavani 2019 Messages and Forgiveness Day Quotes: WhatsApp Stickers, GIF Images, Facebook Status and SMS to Seek Forgiveness On This Jain Festival.

Members of the Jain community approach people, irrespective of their religion and seek for forgiveness and mistakes they have committed. The act is believed to relieve them of all the heavy burden and sins of yesteryears thus start afresh. They believe in doing so they start a peaceful life. The ritual is believed to be the first step to the path of salvation which is the final goal of every man, as per the teachings of Jainism.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 12, 2019 10:16 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).