Venus Jain - K J Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies

I am Prof. Venus Jain, a historian and educator with a long-standing commitment to academic leadership, research, and the study of religion and culture. My professional journey began with the Galaxy Education System in Rajkot, after which I moved to the Global Indian International School in Gandhidham, where I served as Principal and Director (Education).

Later, I took on the role of Group Director at the Shri Ram Group of Colleges in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, gaining extensive experience in higher education administration. I subsequently joined Amity University, Noida, as Junior Vice President, where I played a key role in establishing the Department of History and served as the Global Stream Coordinator for History.

At present, I serve as Professor of Jainism at the Centre of Studies in Jainism, K. J. Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies, under Somaiya Vidyavihar University. Alongside teaching and research, I contribute to academia as a member of the editorial boards of several national and international journals. I have authored books that have received international recognition, including System of Devadasis in India – Tradition or Travesty and Celebrating Tenfold Virtue.

My work has been honored with several prestigious recognitions, including the President’s Award from the President of India, as well as titles such as the Outstanding Educator & Scholar Award and the Distinguished Woman Educator & Scholar Award.

Over the years, I have published more than 95 research papers and publications, many indexed in Scopus, focusing on themes such as religion, cultural history, and the role of women in religious practices. I am also a Distinguished Fellow of the National Foundation for Entrepreneurship Development, Coimbatore.

Beyond academia, I frequently engage with wider audiences through television programs and radio platforms such as Radio 90.8 FM. As a keynote speaker at national and international conferences, I focus on cultural history, the role of women in religious traditions, and the global relevance of Jain philosophy.