Jain Bhawan: Its Aims and Objects

The article outlines the genesis and programmes of **Jain Bhawan**, an institution founded in Calcutta in 1945 to promote Jain philosophy and religion. Established by prominent Jains in the city’s Burrabazar area, it has been a cultural beacon in eastern India for more than fifty‑eight years. Its objectives are to rationally establish the greatness of Jainism, spread its glory through new knowledge, cultivate intellectual, moral and literary pursuits, impart lessons on Jainism and encourage research. To fulfil these aims the Bhawan runs several programmes: (1) **School** – the Jain Śikṣālaya educates about 550 students under the state syllabus and integrates moral education; (2) **Vocational and physical classes** – courses in tailoring, embroidery, fine arts, judo, karate and yoga cater to both students and community members; (3) **Library** – housing more than 10 000 books on Jainism and 3 000 rare manuscripts and subscribing to about 100 periodicals; (4) **Periodicals** – the Bhawan publishes three journals—*Jain Journal* (English), *Titthayara* (Hindi) and *Śrāmana* (Bengali)—edited by Professor Satya Ranjan Banerjee and widely acclaimed; (5) **Seminars and symposia** – bringing together scholars to discuss Jain philosophy and the Jain way of life; (6) **Scholarships and research grants** – supporting researchers in Jain philosophy; (7) **Publications** – producing works such as the *Bhagavatī Sūtra* (English translation), *Barsāt kī Rāt*, *Pañcadarśī*, *Bangal kā Adi Dharma* and others; (8) **Computer centre** – opened in February 1998 to provide computer training and connect the Bhawan with global educational networks; (9) **Research centre** – the Jainology and Prakrit Research Institute fosters advanced study of Jainism. The article urges continued support from the community, emphasising that the Bhawan acts as a guide and moral compass in a world marred by violence and contradictions.

Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.