Jain Bhawan: Its Aims and Objects
Summary
The brief piece “Jain Bhawan : Its Aims and Objects” describes the history and activities of Jain Bhawan, an institution founded in 1945 in Calcutta by members of the Jain community. Since its establishment it has served as a hub for the dissemination of Jain philosophy and culture in eastern India. The article lists the institution’s objectives: to establish the greatness of Jainism rationally, spread its glory in the light of new knowledge, foster intellectual and moral pursuits, teach Jain doctrine to the public and encourage research on Jain religion and philosophy. To realise these goals the Bhawan operates several programmes. Its school, the Jain Shikshalaya, follows the West Bengal Board curriculum and integrates moral education; it currently enrols about 550 students and employs 25 teachers. Vocational and physical classes offer training in tailoring, embroidery, Judo, Karate, Yoga and other crafts, benefitting both students and local residents. The Bhawan also runs a large library containing over 10 000 books on Jainism and approximately 3 000 rare manuscripts. Its reading room subscribes to about 100 periodicals and journals from around the world, keeping members abreast of contemporary thought. Recognising the need for scholarship, the Bhawan publishes three journals—Jain Journal in English, Titthayara in Hindi and Śrāmana in Bengali—which have gained acclaim and play a key role in propagating Jain literature. Beyond publishing, the institution organises seminars and symposia on Jain philosophy and culture, invites eminent scholars to speak, offers scholarships to researchers and produces books and pamphlets on Jain doctrine. A computer training centre opened in 1998 provides students with skills in programming and internet communication, enabling the Bhawan to connect with educational organisations worldwide and to spread Jainism via email and the web. The article concludes by noting that the Bhawan also maintains a research centre—the Jainology and Prakrit Research Institute—which encourages students to undertake research in Prakrit and Jainism. The institution appeals to readers for continued support so that its educational and scholarly initiatives can thrive.
Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.
Conclusion
Jain Bhawan’s mission is to promote Jain philosophy through education, research and publication. Operating a school, vocational classes, a library and journals, it provides holistic education and preserves a vast collection of texts and manuscripts. Regular seminars, scholarships and a computer centre reflect its commitment to combining traditional learning with modern skills. By maintaining a research institute and appealing for community support, the organisation positions itself as a vital hub for sustaining and disseminating Jain culture in eastern India.