There are moments in life when you pause, take a deep breath, and realize that all you truly want is peace. Some people find it in practicing yoga, others in painting or taking long walks in nature. But peace isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept—it means different things to different people, shaped by personal experiences and perspectives.
For some, true peace lies in living a simple, uncluttered life—free from distractions and material attachments. One of the most profound examples of this simplicity is found in Jain monks. They renounce all worldly possessions, dedicating their lives to mindfulness, non-violence, and inner peace.
Bored Panda had the opportunity to speak with Jain Monk Rajendra Sethia from Rajasthan, who shared his personal journey of transformation. Once deeply involved in corporate life, he made the bold decision to walk away from everything familiar to him, choosing instead a life of minimalism and spiritual fulfillment. His story sheds light on the profound philosophy behind Jainism and the peace that comes with renouncing materialistic desires.
“I was a successful chartered accountant at a big firm, living a comfortable life,” he shared. “But something always felt amiss. I kept thinking a job switch would help, but deep down, I knew it wasn’t the corporate world that was the problem—it was my need for something more meaningful.” That realization set him on a path he never imagined for himself.
#8 Lost Nearly Everything In The Pandemic But Found The Love Of My Life: Painting
“I come from a Jain family, but I never followed religious teachings seriously,” he admitted. “It was only when I started reading more about Jainism that I began to resonate with its teachings, especially the principle of Aparigraha—non-possession. The idea that true happiness comes from letting go really struck a chord with me.”
#10 We Are So Much More Than Our Labour , We Don't Need To Seek Validation To Appreciate Our Lives
#12 Minimalistic, Emergency Microapartment. Living On 90sqft. + Bath After Homelessness. Early Stage, Including Selfmade Gaming Bed. Just Sharing, Feel Free To Comment!
He explained that embracing this principle meant giving up everything he once valued—his gadgets, luxury car, branded clothes, and even the financial security he had worked so hard for. “It wasn’t easy at first. Letting go of attachments is harder than it sounds. But once I did, I felt lighter, freer,” he recalled.
Life as a Jain monk is rooted in extreme simplicity. “We wear simple clothing, which we wash ourselves. There’s no excess, no unnecessary possessions,” he shared. “Initially, it seemed overwhelming—how do you go from a life of comfort to complete minimalism? But the peace and clarity it brings is indescribable.”
When it comes to food, Jain monks follow strict dietary practices. “We eat only what is necessary, and always with gratitude. The idea is that food should nourish the soul, not just the body,” he explained. “There’s no craving for expensive meals or luxury dining. In fact, I don’t even think about the things I used to indulge in.”
#19 Moved Away From The Big City I Was Born In, Already Feeling More Peaceful And Relaxed!
