He has traveled extensively across the globe to spread the message of Indian Culture and Philosophy and to promote Interreligious Dialogue.
Work & Contribution
Dr. Shantilal K. Somaiya, B.Sc, LL.B, (D.Sc. honoris causa) (born in 1927) is Promoter and Director of various companies having business and manufacturing interest in Sugar, Industrial, Alcohol, Organic Chemicals, Salt, Printing and Publications, Agriculture, Bulk Drugs, etc. As a leading Industrialist and Businessman he has been a member of many prominent committees and apex bodies in India.
Dr. Shantilal K. Somaiya was the chairman of the K.J Somaiya Trust which has sponsored the Educational Society “Somaiya Vidyavihar”. It has established various institutions of higher learning under its banner and has developed a unique and vibrant educational campus.
He was also a believer in the power of the sugar industry, To bring about social as well as financial prosperity
He conceptualized the Sanskritivihar, which comprises of
- K J Somaiya Bharatiya Sanskriti Peetham
- K J Somaiya Institute of Buddhist Studies
- K J Somaiya Jain Centre
Participation
He attended the World Blind Union General Assembly held at Melbourne, Australia in November 2000 as an Observer. He also attended the World Blind Union General Assembly held at Cape Town, South Africa, in December 2004.
At United Nation, New York He has Participated In the Millennium World Peace Summit of Religious and Spiritual Leaders, held in August-September 2000. Also Participated In the Parliament of the World’s Religious held in Barcelona from 7-13 July,2004. Dr. SK Somaiya has participated in Kazakhstan Congress as the Leader of Hindu Delegation.
Dr. S K Somaiya as Philanthropist
Dr. Shantilal Somaiya has promoted a project called SAHAS(Somaiya Action for HIV/AIDS Support), under the K.J Somaiya Medical Trust to provide services for the HIV infected and affected. These services are run from the Somaiya Hospital since 2003.
Vision
Dr. S. K. Somaiya left behind a wonderful vision of an integrated development - be it in medicine, business, education, religion, or philosophy. One that engages rather than divides, and encompasses all, reflecting the true spirit of our heritage and tradition.