India now has a new feather in its credentials as it has become the host of the the largest Jain museum and knowledge center in the world. That’s right! The world recently witnessed the inauguration of Abhay Prabhavana Museum and Knowledge Center, Pune, India.
The museum takes people on a journey into the teaching of Jainism, the beautiful philosophy of religion, lessons of wisdom, truth, non-violence and much more. And not only that, the museum also features modern, aesthetic and avant-garde architecture that beautifully blends the old with the new aspects of the world, making the lessons more relevant to the younger generation.

A tribute to Jain philosophy

Abhay Firodia, the founder of the museum, considers it not just a museum building, but rather a global landmark that will help people connect to the core values ​​of Jainism. The museum pays homage to the principles of Jainism, non-violence (Ahimsa), non-possessiveness (Aparigrah) and respect for all living beings. The museum features specially commissioned artworks, sculptures and replicas, each designed to explain Jain philosophy and its relevance in today’s world.

(Image: Abhay Prabhavana)

Architecture

The Abhay Prabhavna Museum is spread over 50 acres of land and covers an area of ​​3.5 lakh square feet. These are state-of-the-art facilities and their design is intended to enchant visitors into a world that mixes Jain philosophy with modern technology.
One of the first things visitors will notice is a huge marble tower that stands in the center of the museum. The tower is not only an architectural feature, but also symbolizes the Jain spiritual journey, with murals that show practices that uplift the soul. This tower is also the heart of the museum and makes a fitting focal point.

Another eye-catching feature is a colossal statue of Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankara. These are undoubtedly the most iconic structures in the museum and quickly enchant people with their simplicity and minimal beauty.
High-tech features
What sets Abhay Prabhavana Museum and Knowledge Center apart is that it is not just a traditional museum with dusty artifacts and books but also uses modern technology to educate and entertain . It has approximately 35 projectors, 675 speakers and 230 LED TVs, all of which work together to provide visitors with a dynamic experience inside the museum.
There are virtual reality setups, interactive kiosks and animations, making the ancient teachings of Jainism more accessible and appealing to a modern audience.
The galleries inside
The museum is divided into 30 galleries, each dedicated to a different aspect of Jain philosophy. These galleries explore topics such as the evolution of Jainism, the path to happiness and the eternal flow of Indian values.
Additionally, the combination of indoor and outdoor exhibits promises visitors a holistic experience.
An institution ready for the future
The architecture of the museum is carefully planned to meet both modern needs and ancient values. The museum is air conditioned with an HVAC system. The museum’s design is rooted in sustainability and functionality. Additionally, it is wheelchair friendly and was built with accessibility in mind, ensuring that people of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy and learn from the exhibits.
The golden-hued open dome allowed for the most beautiful drone and aerial photography captures, and the pillar located right in the middle gives perfect harmony to the museum and knowledge center, bringing all the elements together.