Pune: The International School for Jain Studies (ISJS), a division of Amar Prerana Trust, Pune, organized the prestigious Bhagwan Kunthunath ISJS Award ceremony on January 21, bringing together eminent scholars, academicians, past awardees, and members of the Jain community from India and abroad.
Seeking to honor and motivate individuals whose academic or literary work has significantly strengthened the understanding and global outreach of Jain thought, the award was presented to Prof Kanti Mardia in the book category titled “Destructive Emotions, Jain Perspectives” and to Prof Claire Maes in the research paper category on Sallekhana.
While the first award of INR 1 lakh has been instituted by Dr Sulekh C Jain, the second award of INR 25,000 has been instituted by Dr Shugan C Jain.
Instituted by ISJS, the Bhagwan Kunthunath ISJS Award, presented in recognition of outstanding and sustained contributions to the field of Jain studies and allied disciplines, symbolizes the ideals of knowledge, discipline, ethical living, and intellectual inquiry as embodied in Jain philosophy.
The event, which also hosted a book release, commenced with Mangalacharan, followed by a welcoming address by Dr Abhay Firodia, Chairman, ISJS. This was followed by insightful addresses from distinguished guests who highlighted the relevance of Jain philosophy, ethics, and values in contemporary times.
Two scholarly books titled “Jains in India and Abroad: A Sociological Introduction” by Prakash Chand Jain, an eminent sociologist and advisor to ISJS, and “Applications of Anekantavad: Jain Pluralism” edited by Dr Shugan C Jain and Dr Preeti R Jain, were released during the ceremony.
The publications focus on key demographic dimensions of the Jain community and the application of Anekantwad, respectively. Both books offer fresh perspectives that are expected to enrich Jain academic literature and support future research in the field.
Over the years, ISJS has emerged as a leading global institution for structured and academic engagement with Jainism. Through its international summer and winter schools, research initiatives, conferences, and publications, ISJS has played a pivotal role in introducing Jain philosophy to scholars and students worldwide.
The institution emphasizes core Jain principles such as Ahimsa (non-violence), Anekantavada (multiplicity of viewpoints), Aparigraha (non-possessiveness), and Saiyam (self-restraint), positioning them as universal values relevant to present-day global challenges.
The online format of the event enabled broad participation from different countries and time zones, reinforcing ISJS’s commitment to accessibility, inclusivity, and global academic collaboration.
