Puducherry, known as Pondicherry or "Pondy" today, is a fascinating blend of cultures and spiritual experiences. While my initial intention was to explore the remnants of French India, I stumbled upon a whole new dimension of Pondy's allure during an evening of traditional Tamil cooking at my hotel.
Engaging in conversation with two British travellers who had just returned from Auroville, my curiosity was piqued. Auroville, a visionary township dedicated to "human unity," was born from the spiritual journey of Sri Aurobindo, an Indian philosopher and leader in the Nationalist movement. Alongside him was Mirra Alfassa, fondly known as The "Mother", who played a critical role in establishing the Ashram in Puducherry and later conceptualizing Auroville.
The Ashram centers around the philosophy of Integral Yoga, which aims to manifest a higher consciousness on Earth through the transformation of human nature and daily activities. Ashramites, devoted followers, engage in various practices such as gardening, farming, operating guesthouses, healthcare, engineering, art, and education. Within this serene community, approximately 2000 members embrace a life of service and spiritual growth.
During my visit to the Ashram, I removed my shoes and entered the inner courtyard, leaving behind the bustling streets of Pondy. The stillness and silence enveloped me as I observed devotees meditating around the white marble shrine, the final resting place of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother. The tranquil ambiance allowed me to breathe deeply and savour the serenity, providing a welcome respite from the outside world.
The general principles established at the Ashram for community service were enhanced by the Mother who conceived of Auroville in the 1930’s — a universal township for up to 50,000 people. This town would be made up from people all around the world and they would be devoted to “human unity”. The goal for a society in harmony living together respectfully and peacefully. There is no religious element to the society as the position of Auroville is that religions divide people while their existence is for unity.
Needless to say, I set out to Auroville.
As I reached the visitors' center, I immersed myself in exhibits, videos, and the rich history of Auroville. The town's master plan, resembling a galaxy, featured distinct zones catering to industrial, cultural, residential, and international aspects. At the heart of Auroville stood the Matrimandir, a golden sphere symbolizing the “birth of a new consciousness”. Its design, resembling a lotus flower, encompassed twelve meditation rooms representing various facets of life and harmony. The word Matrimandir translates to 'Temple of the Mother.'
As I approached the Matrimandir through the peaceful woods and gardens, I felt like I was on another planet. The gold-plated discs glistened in the sunlight; it was surreal. While I didn't have the opportunity to enter the Matrimandir — let alone the inner chamber at its center — I was in awe. Supported by UNESCO and the Government of India as a township project, Auroville dispels any notion of being a cult, but rather a society promoting shared values and peaceful coexistence.
Although this detour from Karl's path doesn't directly tie back to his journey, I am grateful to him for inadvertently leading me to this extraordinary experience. Auroville is completely fascinating and my curiosity was in overdrive. There’s a great YouTube video that I’d recommend watching and if you find it too long, go to minute 3 when the inner chamber is accessed:https://youtu.be/_GbJZznFogY. I’m quite sure Dear Reader you’ll be amazed!
1 https://www.sriaurobindoashram.org
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