CHENNAI: Renowned exponents of Jainism and Jain scholars have put in public domain the contemporary relevance of Jain philosophy and the crucial need to follow the concept of ‘ahimsa’ (non-violence) in today’s global scenario.
These experts have shared their insights at a two-day national seminar organized by the Department of Jainology of University of Madras in collaboration with Research Foundation for Jainology (RFJ) in Chennai on March 23rd and March 24th 2026 with the theme ‘The glory of Jainism and its relevance in the modern context: New findings’.
Addressing the delegates, RFJ vice-president Mr.Sugalchand Jain has said that the seminar underscores the enduring commitment of RFJ and the Department of Jainology of University of Madras towards establishing Jain philosophy as a vibrant and relevant field of study in the modern context.
According to a press release here yesterday, scholars and scientists from various places including Jain Academy of Scholars (JAS) at Ahmedabad had focused on important aspects of Jainism and the life of great Mahavir Jain.
Prof.Rita John, Registrar, University of Madras, had delivered the inaugural address while RFJ chairman Mr.Abhay Mehta and JAS founder Dr.Narendra Bhandari shed light on the importance of this seminar to spread the message of Jainism which propounded non-violence.
JAINISM AND VEGETARIANISM:
Dr.Nanditha Krishna, Director, C.P.Ramaswami Aiyar Foundation-Chennai, who delivered the valedictory address has said that the practice of animal sacrifice could be curbed significantly due to Jainism impact and if India today boasts of its large vegetarian population and if vegetarianism holds a prestige position globally, the fundamental reason is Lord Mahavir and his teachings.
Dr.C.Arulvasu, controller of examinations, University of Madras, Dr.Priyadarshana Jain, seminar director and Jainism experts including Dr.Chakravarthy Devkumar, Dr.Jayantilal Jain and Dr.Dilip Dhing were among those who highlighted the need for harmony among different languages, regions and cultures.
RFJ president Mr.Kailashmal Dugar had presented a report on the various activities undertaken by RFJ and its executive director Dr.Santosh Surana has said that a heritage tour was organized for the participants. Research papers were presented in this seminar and deliberations on contemporary relevance of Jain philosophy took place in this seminar which was sponsored by RFJ.
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