The Abhay Prabhavana Museum, dubbed “museum of ideas” and dedicated to Jain philosophy and Indian heritage, recently opened its gates in the western Indian city of Pune. The museum’s mission is to instil a deeper understanding of Jain values, their crucial impact on Indian value system, and its relevance in contemporary society for visitors from around the world.
It is expected to become an important stopover on the travel circuit for members of the Jain community in the UK, many of whom are planning their visits to India over the holiday season.
iGlobal columnist Professor Atul Shah explained: “This outstanding new creative gallery will inspire young and old to learn about one of India's oldest living Dharmic Sciences – Jainism.
“Whilst there are thousands of Jain temples in India, the content and explanation of the philosophy is missing everywhere. There are nearly 40,000 Jains living in the UK, and just as the Akshardham in Delhi has become world famous, so will this site in terms of its significant educational value in an age when science rules the world. It is a must visit for the diaspora, and only a few hours from Mumbai.”
Established by Abhay Firodia, chairman of the Amar Prerana Trust, the new museum represents a significant milestone in preserving and promoting India’s spiritual legacy.
Firodia shared: “Abhay Prabhavana stands as a tribute to the profound values of the Shraman and Jain tradition, which form the core of India’s ethical and cultural ethos, since millennia. This museum reflects the principles of education, enterprise and ethics— not just as concepts, but as the real societal values that guide individuals toward a balanced and purposeful life.”
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He expressed the hope that the new development will inspire people to explore and connect with the 10 ideals of Indian civilization, expressed through Jainism:
Asi – Tools and weapons
Masi – Ink and communication
Kasi – agriculture and animal husbandry
Vanijya – Trade and commerce
Shilp – Professional skills
Vidya – Knowledge (mathematics, Cosmology, Medical sciences etc.)
Ahimsa – Non-violence and non-injury through thought, speech and actions
Aparigrah – Non-possessiveness
Anekantvad – Non-absolutism of truth, Acceptance of others’ viewpoints as equally valid
Kshama – Seeking and offering forgiveness
The exploration is rooted in the Jain principle of “Panna Samikhaye Dhammam”, inviting objective inquiry and personal conviction in understanding truth.
Located along the scenic banks of the Indrayani River in Maharashtra, the expansive Abhay Prabhavana Museum is designed to immerse visitors in profound Jain values. Across 30 meticulously designed galleries and unique artefacts illustrate the essence of Jain values of security, safety, productivity, prosperity on the societal level and compassion, open-mindedness and ethical living on a personal level.
Set across 50 acres of land, the museum is replete with hi-tech audio-visuals, animations, virtual reality, immersive experiences, interactive systems and specially created 350+ artworks, sculptures and grand replicas to explain complex philosophical and spiritual concepts in a modern, and easy manner. It also spotlights Pune as a centre of cultural exploration – situated near the ancient 2,200 years old Pale Jain caves.
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Over time, the museum hopes to take its place as a global cultural landmark, welcoming over 2,000 visitors of all backgrounds daily and offering them a place of reflection and inspiration.
*Info: Abhay Prabhavana Museum