Festivals

Choose the Correct Answer

Correct Answer : Option c

Explanation
Statement 1 is correct: Paryushana is the most important Jain religious observance of the year. For both Svetambaras, who observe the festival over a period of eight days, and Digambaras, for whom Paryushan Parva lasts ten days, this is a time of intensive study, reflection, and purification. It takes place in the middle of the four-month rainy season in India, a time when the monks and nuns cease moving about from place to place and stay with a community. Paryushan means, literally, “abiding” or “coming together.” The monks and nuns who have to maintain fixed residence during the rainy season abide with the laity and are available to them for instruction and guidance. It is also a time when the laity take on various temporary vows of study and fasting, a spiritual intensity similar to temporary monasticism. In this respect, it bears comparison with periods of rigorous religious practice in other traditions, such as the Christian observance of Lent. Paryushana concludes with a time of confession and forgiveness for the transgressions of the previous year.

Statement 2 is correct: The Songkran festival is a significant event in the Buddhist calendar that occurs in the middle of April and lasts for several days. During this time, people engage in various activities that symbolize the renewal and purification of the body, mind, and spirit, such as cleaning their homes, washing their clothes, and bathing in water scented with flowers and herbs. One of the most recognizable traditions associated with Songkran is the ritual of ‘sai sin’, which involves participants tying white strings around their wrists as a symbol of good luck and blessings. Additionally, many people offer food to monks during the festival, which is believed to bring merit and good fortune. The playful activity of water splashing has also become a popular feature of Songkran celebrations, particularly in Thailand, where the festival is widely observed. Water is poured over each other as a way of washing away the bad luck and misfortunes of the past year.