Fasting is a tradition found in nearly every religion around the world. During Navratri, which is currently being observed with this year’s celebration lasting ten days instead of the usual nine, many people observe fasts.

However, some fasts go far beyond abstaining from regular meals.

The most difficult known fast in the world is rooted in Jainism. This fast, known as Santhara or Sallekhana , is so rigorous that it is not meant for everyone.

It involves renouncing food, and sometimes even water, for extended periods, often weeks or even months, as a conscious and spiritual decision to embrace death when life’s duties are believed to be complete.

Jain monks and nuns lead an austere life. They sleep on the floor, walk barefoot, do not use utensils, and even pluck out their hair by

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