Dr. B.K. Khadabadi
Late Lala Prem Chandra Jain
(11.3.1922 to 2.12.1995)
The late Lala Prem Chandra Jain, one of the distinguished philanthropist and social activist was born in Ambala (Haryana) in March 1992. He was the only son of the late Lala Raj Krishen Jain, the self-made-man who rose from rags to riches. Like his father he was fully dedicated to the cause of Ahimsa (non-injury), Jainism and Prakrit. He was extremely attached to his father and, therefore, they jointly contributed to the cause to the extent very few jain families have done. He was very much enlightened and had vision to review Jain tradition and love. His physical disability due to an accident in the year 1970 could not deter him from continuing his religious and creative works.
His main contributions are as under:
- Construction of Ahimsa Mandira at Haridvara
- Construction of Ahimsa Mandira at Pilani
- Construction of Ahimsa Mandira at Kurukshetra (opposite Kunda)
- Institution of Sh. Raj Krishen Jain Memorial Lectures, University of Delhi, in 1975.
- Institution of Shiksha Vritti Fund at Mysore University, Mysore for award of scholarship to deserving students in the field of higher studies in Prakrit and Jainism.
- Institution of A.N. Upadhye Memorial Lectures in Mysore University, Mysore, as one of the donors.
- Establishment of Shrimati Padmavati Prem Chandra Jain (Delhi) Sarvajanika Pustakalaya at Sravanabelgola.
- Establishment of a Museum for preservation of Thirthankara images of precious stones at Moodbidri.
- Founding of Sh. Raj Krishen Jain Charitable Trust and Publication of books on Jainism, Ahimsa and Prakrit through the aforesaid Trust.
- Donated generously for sinking wells for the use of the most down trodden community of Saraks of Bihar and Orissa.
- Launched a number of movements for revival, restoration and promotion of Jain and Prakrit Studies.
- He had endeared himself to the scholars and students by way of opening the doors of his big house in Daryaganj for their stay, use of library, meeting and debating on important academic and religious issues. Lalaji's house was a shelter for Muslim victims of violence during 1947 partition days.
