The Abhay Prabhavana Museum, dedicated to Jain philosophy and India’s rich heritage, officially opened in Pune recently, marking a significant step in preserving and promoting India’s spiritual and ethical values.
Established by Abhay Firodia, Chairman of the Amar Prerana Trust, the museum aims to immerse visitors in the core principles of Jainism and their relevance in modern society. The inauguration ceremony was attended by several esteemed dignitaries, scholars, and leaders, all gathering to celebrate the museum’s mission of fostering a deeper understanding of Jain values and their enduring impact on Indian society.
Among those gracing the occasion were Union Ministers Nitin Gadkari and Jyotiraditya Scindia, Maharaja of Gwalior; Justice Dalveer Bhandari of the International Court of Justice; Maharaj Kumar Lakshyaraj Singh of Mewar; Padma Bhushan awardees D R Mehta and Anna Hazare; and Maneka Gandhi, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Environment and Forests. Spiritual blessings were offered by Padma Shri Gurudevshri Rakeshji, Acharya Chandana Ji Maharaj, and His Holiness Siling Tongkhor Rinpoche.
Located along the banks of the Indrayani River, the Abhay Prabhavana Museum spans an impressive 3.5 lakh square feet across 30 galleries, showcasing artifacts and interactive exhibits that celebrate Jain values such as non-violence, compassion, and ethical living. With the aid of cutting-edge technology – interactive systems, virtual reality, immersive experiences, and over 350 specially commissioned artworks – the museum offers an innovative exploration of Jain principles in a modern, accessible format. Equipped with 35 projectors, 675 audio speakers, and 230 LED displays, the museum provides a deeply engaging cultural experience.
Reflecting on the vision behind the museum, Firodia said, “Abhay Prabhavana is a tribute to the timeless values of the Jain tradition, which have shaped India’s ethical and cultural ethos for millennia. It represents the principles of Education, Enterprise, and Ethics not only as concepts but as guiding values for a purposeful life. Our hope is that this center will inspire visitors to connect with the ideals of Indian civilization, as embodied in Jainism, including the principles of Ahimsa (non-violence), Aparigraha (non-possessiveness), and Anekantavada (non-absolutism).”
Located near the historic 2,200-year-old Pale Jain caves, the museum is set to become a global cultural landmark, with an anticipated 2,000 visitors daily. It seeks to position Pune as a center for ethical and spiritual learning, drawing individuals from all walks of life to explore India’s spiritual and philosophical legacy.
The Amar Prerana Trust, under Firodia’s leadership, has long been committed to preserving India’s heritage and promoting education and healthcare. With the establishment of the Abhay Prabhavana Museum, the Trust hopes to inspire future generations to embrace the timeless wisdom of Jainism and contribute positively to society.