I am a spiritual person who follows Jainism. In August of 2017, I did what's called an Atthai — a completely optional, voluntary practice — and what I didn't fully appreciate at the time was how defining that experience would become.
Atthai is a rigorous form of fasting practiced during Paryushana, the most important annual Jain festival — eight days dedicated to introspection, meditation, and repentance. During Atthai, one follows a water-only diet: just boiled water, consumed only between sunrise and sunset, for the entire duration. No food, no drinks, no supplements. Scientifically, your body goes into a complete detox, clearing the digestive tract of impurities. I felt rejuvenated — as if my body had been refurbished. Its deeper essence, though, is spiritual: detachment, renouncing bodily needs to strengthen mental resolve and deepen devotion. Atthai aligns with the broader goals of Paryushana — to atone for past mistakes, purify karma, and reflect on the five ethical vows.
"After the fourth day I was on autopilot, and my mind was rather clear. I felt confident in pulling this off — like I had power over my mind and could go on for even longer."
How did I do it? A few friends joined me in the pursuit, and I had a lot of support from family. The first three days were the toughest — my body had never experienced anything like this before. Mean urges, constant temptation. But I kept telling myself: one day at a time. I kept distracted playing cards, hanging out with friends, watching TV shows. (I binged the entirety of Game of Thrones across those eight days.) I was still attending university classes and doing homework during the festival. After day four, something shifted. I was on autopilot. My mind was clear.
I took the 8th day off from classes — a little weak, but holding strong. Just one more day before I could taste food again. And honestly? I wasn't even craving it anymore. I felt like I had a power over my mind that I'd never known before.
As to why I did it — not out of devotion or societal pressure, but simply to find out if I could. Whether I had the strength and determination to push my body to its limits and see it through. This will always be one of the toughest battles I have fought, and a true testament to my willpower.
The Jain community in my area took out a procession for all Atthai practitioners and we were showered with praise and gifts. We got to ride in a chariot pulled by horses. On the 9th day, friends and family came home and fed me from a huge spread prepared in my honour. It took three more days to ease back into a normal diet. And then there's Samvatsari — on the 8th and final day, all Jains ask forgiveness from others using the phrase "Micchami Dukkadam" for any intentional or unintentional wrongdoings. It is truly a festival of repentance.
Oh, and did I mention? I lost 8 kgs in those 8 days. Kinda like intermittent fasting — just with very long intervals.