A Deshna is a type of religious speech in Jain Prakrit

Jain Prakrit

Jain Prakrit is a term loosely used for the language of the Jain Agamas . The books of Jainism were written in the popular vernacular dialects , and therefore encompass a number of related dialects...

. According to Jainism

Jainism

Jainism is an Indian religion that prescribes a path of non-violence towards all living beings. Its philosophy and practice emphasize the necessity of self-effort to move the soul towards divine consciousness and liberation. Any soul that has conquered its own inner enemies and achieved the state...

, after a Tirthankara gains infinite knowledge, in his honor, the heavenly beings create a place called samavasarana

Samavasarana

Samavasarana or Samosarana "Refuge to All" is a Jain term for the divine preaching hall or the assembly of the Tirthankara after attaining perfect knowledge or Kevala Jnana. It also refers to the hall in which the speech is given...

, where all creatures are welcomed (including non-human creatures, humans, and angels) and delivers a speech. This speech is understood by everyone in their own languages. These types of speeches are known as deshnas.