From 17th to 19th March 2025, Dr Medhavi Jain (Founder, Dharma For Life) and Dr Palakh Jain (Joint Secretary, DFL) visited Pune for the twin purpose of delivering a lecture on “Arihant: Jain Darshan Mein Sarvagya ki Avdharna” at Savitribai Phule Pune University and visiting Abhay Prabhavana Museum.
Lecture by Dr Medhavi Jain at the Department of Philosophy, Savitribai Phule Pune University on 18th March 2025, Tuesday:
With a hall full of intellectual audience, Dr K K Jain of Pune University initiated the lecture by giving a brief history of Seth Hirachand Nemichand Jain Chair, followed by Manglacharan—an introduction of Dr Medhavi Jain by Dr Shrinetra Pandey, ISJS. Dr Pandey appreciated Dr Medhavi’s deep interest in Jain philosophy as a poetess and an author of Hindi literature. Dr Medhavi has written a dozen books, with Matter and Mokṣa being the latest publication by the renowned DK Publisher, Delhi. As the founder of Dharma For Life, Dr Medhavi has achieved significant milestones in quickly spreading ancient Indian wisdom. Almost fifty people joined online mode, including dignitaries like ex-space scientist Dr Narendra Bhandari.
After being welcomed by Dr K K Jain, Dr Medhavi thanked everyone and started her lecture with a quote from her latest book, Matter and Mokṣa. She presented various perspectives on the unique teachings of Jain philosophy, emphasising that Jainism does not accept the concept of a creator. She beautifully explained how in Jainism, “The soul that is absolutely devoid of karmic baggage is Paramātma”. Using examples and reference materials, she elaborated on how God is a free soul, and complete freedom is the state of Godhood, also known as Mokṣa.
The second part of her presentation focused on the idea that how on the path of knowledge, “Guru is a medium, not the means”. She beautifully narrated a few lines in Hindi written by her:
जिसे समूचा भिज्ञ
वह सर्वज्ञ
एवं
जो पथ उस भिज्ञता तक ले जाए
वह सत्पथ
She emphasized that the peak of evolution is also the peak of jñāna, known as Kevalajñāna or omniscience. She explained the same through giving references from Jainendra Siddhant Kosha and the literature of Kundakunda Ācārya. She used beautiful relevant images to enhance her presentation and make the subject easily understandable by all.
The lecture was followed by a question-and-answer session, where scholars and students engaged in thought-provoking discussions. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr K K Jain.
The video of the lecture can be seen at Lecture on The Concept of Omniscience in Jainism. The slideshow presentation can be seen at अरहंत: जैन दर्शन में सर्वज्ञ की अवधारणा
Visit to Abhay Prabhavana Museum on 19th March 2025
On the final day of the visit, the DFL team explored the Abhay Prabhavana Museum, a remarkable repository of Jain heritage and philosophy. Located in a serene environment, the museum houses rare artefacts, audio video depictions, and intricately designed idols, offering a deep insight into the rich legacy of Jainism.
King Rishabh Dev or Lord Adinatha. The father of civilisation, from whom the Ikshvaku Dynasty began. Who taught 6 main professions to the people to survive in the changing times: (1) Asi (swordsmanship for protection), (2) Masi (writing skills), (3) Krishi (agriculture), (4) Vidya (knowledge), (5) Vanijya (trade and commerce) and (6) Shilp (crafts).
The visit was personally guided by Dr Shrinetra Pandey, Director, International School of Jain Studies; who meticulously explained the significance of various exhibits. One of the most captivating sections of the museum was the collection of ancient Jain scriptures preserved in their original form, along with interactive digital displays that narrated the stories of Tirthankara and Jain Acharyas. The museum’s emphasis on Anekantavada (the doctrine of non-absolutism) and Ahimsa was evident in its carefully curated displays.
With ISJS team
A highlight of the visit was the viewing of an Tirthankara Gallery followed by details of the lives of the prominent Ford-makers. Additionally, the museum featured a unique depiction of Samavasarana, the divine preaching assembly of a Tirthankara, which left the visitors in awe.
The visit concluded with a heartfelt interaction with the museum team, where Dr Medhavi and Dr Palakh expressed their gratitude to Dr Shrinetra Pandey for his warm hospitality and for sharing his valuable insights. This enriching experience further reinforced the relevance of Jain teachings in contemporary society and the importance of preserving this spiritual heritage for future generations.
