Abhay Prabhavana is a Knowledge Centre created by the Firodia Institute of Philosophy, Culture and History (FIPCH), which is a division of Amar Prerana Trust (APT).
A ‘Museum of Ideas’, it showcases the timeless values of Jainism, in a scientific, logical, easy to understand and modern perspective. It highlights Jainism’s depth, diversity, and their crucial impact on the entire Indian value system, emphasizing its timeless appeal.
The term ‘Prabhavana’ means a precious gift to society, for the benefit of all - given selflessly. This Center has been built under the vision and leadership of Shri Abhay Firodia. It is developed over ten years in collaboration with Jain scholars, thought leaders, artists and facilitators.
To create a repository and exposition of Jain values, discuss the impact of its thought on the ethical and cultural values of Indian philosophy, exhibit the role of Jainism in the evolution of pan-Indian culture, while showcasing the depth, diversity, and contemporary relevance of Jain culture, and the timelessness and universal appeal of Jain thoughts.
Shri Abhay Firodia
Chairman, Amar Prerana Trust
Founder, Abhay Prabhavana
The purpose of religion and social values is to enable individuals to find inner peace, true happiness, confidence, contentment, a positive attitude, and the ability to collaborate with society, thereby promoting inner peace and security.
For the renunciate or the sadhu, Jain tradition shows a way to progress towards enlightenment and liberation.
For the householder, it emphatically encourages prosperity and security for society through individual productivity, connectivity, and scientific capability.
Jain way of life aims to enable an individual to feel secure and content, while cultivating awareness and compassion, leading to harmony with oneself and the world.
Jainism is not just non-violence, nor is it simply limiting an individual's food habits and lifestyle.
A true Jain is defined not by birth, but fundamentally by adherence to values of Education, Enterprise and Ethics.
Some six thousand or so years ago, during the mature bronze age, Rishabhdev explained the basis for a safe, productive, prosperous, enlightened and cohesive society. He became the first great spiritual guide or Tirthankar in the tradition.
Three thousand years later, the last two of the 24 Tirthankaras, Parshvanath and Mahavir, showed the path for enlightenment and liberation for an individual through Ahimsa(non-violence), Aparigraha (non-possessiveness), Anekantvad (open-mindedness), and Kshama (forgiveness).
The Museum is built to showcase the timeless relevance of Jainism which lies in its profound impact on the ethical and cultural values of India.Known as the path of knowledge, it inspires objective examination to realize the values recommended.Jainism promotes a creative, balanced, and compassionate individual, while emphasizing a productive and peaceful society.”
To disseminate the principles expounded by the Tirthankars, spanning from the first Tirthankar, Rishabhdev, to the last, Mahavir comprising asi, masi, kasi, vanijya, shilp, vidya, ahimsa, aparigrah, anekantvad and kshama, and
To critically examine all thoughts to understand and accept their validity. ‘Panna Samikhaye Dhammam’ encourages not to blindly accept any thought principle, belief, without personal conviction.
Any teaching should only be accepted through one’s own objective examination of the value propounded.
Guided the Museum's vision, emphasizing
the power of stories to convey philosophical
values.
Identified and initiated the key aspects
of philosophy and cultural practices
to be highlighted.
Contributed to the Philosophy section,
ensuring depth and authenticity in
Jain philosophical content.
Provided scholarly guidance on
India's historical, cultural and
architectural evolution
Mentored the Art section,
emphasizing the aesthetic appeal
of Indian art in display, over mere
historical accuracy
Interpreted and explained how
the iconography of ancient Indian
art and architecture symbolically
represent values and personalities.
Mentored the concept and narrative of the 'Path to Happiness' that explores the relevance of the Jain
Value system for the individual and society, in
today's world.
Contributed perspectives on
health, nutrition, and holistic
well-being through Jain
principles.
Helped highlight shared
Indic values and deepen
understanding of India's
diverse spiritual traditions.
Late Shri Ishwardas Chordia inspired the building design, brought to life by his sons, Shri Atul & Shri Sagar Chordia and architect Beck John, blending architectural excellence with cultural depth.