​Preserving the past: PM Modi inaugurates Samrat Samprati Museum, spotlighting Jain values​

PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the Samrat Samprati museum in Gandhinagar, marking an important initiative to promote and preserve Jain heritage along with India’s broader cultural and civilisational legacy. The museum is dedicated to Jain philosophy and core values such as non-violence (ahimsa), compassion, and ethical living, highlighting their continued relevance in shaping both Indian society and global thought. (Image credit: PTI)

Named after Samrat Samprati, the museum symbolises the historical spread of Jainism and reflects the ruler’s contribution to promoting peace and non-violence across his empire. (Image credit: PTI)

The museum houses more than 2,000 rare artefacts, including ancient manuscripts, intricately crafted sculptures, coins, and paintings, offering visitors a detailed insight into the rich history and artistic traditions of Jain culture. (Image credit: ANI)

Spread across seven galleries, the museum integrates traditional heritage displays with modern audio-visual technology, creating an immersive and interactive learning experience for visitors of all age groups. (Image credit: ANI)

PM Modi also highlighted the Gyan Bharatam Mission, which focuses on digitising and scientifically preserving ancient manuscripts through advanced techniques such as high-resolution scanning and chemical conservation methods. (Image credit: ANI)

He pointed out that in the past, many valuable manuscripts were neglected and not properly preserved, emphasising that the current government is actively working to correct these shortcomings and protect India’s intellectual heritage. (Image credit: ANI)

PM Modi met and sought the blessings of Jain Acharya Shri Padmasagar Surishwar during the inauguration, expressing deep respect for his spiritual guidance and acknowledging the important role of Jain saints in preserving cultural and ethical traditions. (Image credit: PTI)

The prime minister recalled that centres like Nalanda and Takshashila once housed vast collections of manuscripts, many of which were destroyed during invasions, leading to a significant loss of knowledge. (Image credit: ANI)

In the inauguration speech, he further stated that even after independence, the preservation of such heritage did not receive adequate attention due to a colonial mindset, and stressed the need to revive and value India’s traditional knowledge systems. (Image credit: ANI)