Mahavir Jayanti 2025 | From germination to inauguration—that's how India witnessed the emergence of Abhay Prabhavana Museum, a colossal museum dedicated to Jain philosophy and Indian heritage. Located along the scenic Indrayani River in Pune, the museum celebrates Jain values and their relevance in today’s world.

　　My visit here was more than just a sightseeing experience—it was a journey through centuries of Jain philosophy and artistry, a profoundly personal exploration of a faith that thrives on non-violence, compassion, and asceticism.

　　As I walked through the gates, the museum's architecture immediately caught my eye. Its white marble facade gleamed in the sun, embodying serenity. The silence was almost sacred, broken only by the occasional chirping of birds—a perfect prelude to the immersive experience awaiting me inside.

　　Abhay Prabhavana Museum: A World Of Stories And Art

　　Established by Abhay Firodia, Chairman of the Amar Prerana Trust, this remarkable institution, with a 3.5 lakh square feet built-up area, is believed to be the largest Jain museum. Entering the premises felt like entering a time capsule. The galleries were filled with intricate sculptures and paintings that narrated the life of Jain Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers) and the evolution of Jainism in India.

　　"Through this museum, we want people to experience the Jain philosophy more deeply. Besides, one must understand that true religion is in the values of life and is meant to make a person feel at ease," Firodia told Outlook Traveller.

　　He added that the museum is a tribute to the timeless values of the Shraman and Jain traditions, celebrating principles like non-violence, knowledge, sustainability, and acceptance, which have shaped Indian civilisations and guided us toward a balanced and purposeful life.

　　One particular sculpture of Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, stood out to me. The attention to detail—the folds of his robes, the serene expression on his face—was mesmerising. I paused momentarily, feeling a connection to his ideals for peace, humility, and inner strength.

　　Among the museum's most prized possessions are its manuscripts, some dating back over a thousand years. These texts, meticulously preserved in glass cases, offer insights into Jain philosophy, ethics, and cosmology.

　　Interactive Exhibits at the 'World's Largest Jain Museum'

　　Spread across 50 acres of land, the museum features over 30 galleries, blending ancient Jain teachings with cutting-edge technology. What sets it apart is its ability to engage modern visitors. Interactive exhibits using audio-visual technology make the teachings of Jainism accessible even to those unfamiliar with the faith. I was drawn to a 3D model showcasing the universe according to Jain cosmology, a fascinating depiction of their unique worldview.

　　The meditation hall was a highlight of my visit. Quiet and dimly lit, it offered a space to reflect away from the world's noise. Sitting there, I could feel the weight of history and spirituality, a moment of stillness amidst the journey.

　　Strategically located near the 2200-year-old Pale Jain caves, the museum bridges India’s rich historical roots with its global aspirations. It offers a serene environment for reflection and learning. Its innovative approach positions Pune as a centre of spiritual and cultural exploration on the global stage.

　　The Information | Abhay Prabhavana Museum

　　Address: Village Parwadi, Taluka, Maval, Pune, Maharashtra 412106

　　Tickets: Four journeys will take you through different phases of the Jain philosophy. The ticket prices vary for each gallery, starting at INR 200 for those opting for an open-air heritage walk, followed by tickets starting INR 1,500 for the three indoor galleries.

　　Please note the duration of each experiences ranges from 1-1.5 hours to 4-5 hours.

　　Timings: Entry, particularly for Part 1, is done batch-wise. Those opting for the whole experience need to keep in mind that from Wednesdays to Fridays, the first batch enters at 10:00 am and the last at 1:00 pm. On weekends, while the first batch remains the same, the timings of entry for the last batch is extended till 4:30 pm.

　　Those only looking to experience Part 5 are allowed entry till 7:00 pm on weekends. On other days, entry closes at 3:30 pm. The opening hours on all days is 10:00 am.

　　The museum remains closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

　　Getting There: The museum is about 50 km from Pune International Airport. Take a cab to reach your destination about two hours from the airport.

　　Who Can Visit: Kids under 12 will not be admitted inside the museum. Wheelchair with attendant is available for INR 750 per person (including GST).

　　This story was first published on November 18, 2024; and it has since been updated.