Film premier and exhibition on Jainism mark 20 Years of study at SOAS
SOAS University of London is currently holding a new exhibition on Jainism, "PureSoul: The Jaina Spiritual Traditions". The exhibition, the first of its kind in 30 years, celebrating 20 years of the Centre of Jaina Studies at SOAS, is currently being held at the Brunei Gallery. It aims to explore the rich cultural and spiritual elements of Jainism, one of the oldest religions in the world.
To mark the end of the exhibition on 25 June 2023, SOAS Centre of Jaina Studies will premier their new documentary. “Pure Soul” presents the life and teaching of the Digambara Jain lay guru Kanji Swami (1889–1980). It draws upon material from interviews with followers and sceptics alongside archival recordings and scriptures to give an intimate but rounded picture of the impact made by his teachings. The documentary is the outcome of a collaboration between the Centre of Jaina Studies and Chouette Films.
The film coupled with the exhibition showcase the unique worldview of the Jaina tradition, which emphasizes the importance of self-realisation, non-violence, compassion, and respect for all living beings. They reflect the pluralism of Jaina thought and practice with focus on previously underrepresented facets of the Jaina way of life.
Liberation of the soul from entanglement in the chain of karma is the principal aim of the Jaina tradition. How can the soul be represented in a visual way? What methods of salvation are taught? These questions are answered by Jaina saints, including Taran Swami, Shrimad Rajacandra and Kanji Swami. Their life sketch and messages will be displayed in the exhibition.
Visitors to the exhibition will have the opportunity to learn about the non-image venerating Śvetāmbara mendicant traditions and their lay supporters, as well as the widely adopted traditions rooted in the spiritual teachings of the Digambara monk Acharya Kundakunda.
The exhibition and film premiere are paired with an academic conference and a cultural programme at SOAS stretching over three months. A dedicated companion volume “Pure Soul: The Jaina Spiritual Traditions” published by the Centre of Jaina Studies will be launched on 22 June at the SOAS Brunei Gallery.
Pictured above: the poster for the documentary about Kanji Swami, Pure Soul.
