. sriaurobindo biography
Sri Aurobindo (1872-1950) was an Indian nationalist, philosopher, yogi, and spiritual reformer. He played a significant role in the Indian independence movement and later became a prominent figure in the field of spiritual philosophy and integral yoga.
Sri Aurobindo was born on August 15, 1872, in Kolkata (then Calcutta), India, into a Bengali family. His father, Krishna Dhan Ghosh, was a physician, and his mother, Swarnalata Devi, was a cultured woman. At the age of seven, Aurobindo was sent to England for his education. He attended St. Paul's School in London and later studied at King's College, Cambridge.
After returning to India in 1893, Aurobindo became involved in the nationalist movement against British colonial rule. He joined the Indian National Congress and was a key figure in the early stages of the struggle for independence. He was associated with the extremist faction of the Congress, advocating for direct action and self-rule. His writings during this period, including articles in the newspaper "Bande Mataram," inspired many Indians to join the freedom struggle.
In 1908, Aurobindo was arrested for his involvement in a revolutionary conspiracy and was imprisoned for a year. After his release, he shifted his focus from political activism to spiritual pursuits.
In 1910, Sri Aurobindo withdrew from public life and settled in Pondicherry (now Puducherry), a French colony in India. It was here that he experienced a profound spiritual awakening and began to develop his philosophy of Integral Yoga. This approach aimed to integrate the spiritual and material aspects of life, emphasizing the transformation of human consciousness.
Aurobindo's major works include "The Life Divine," "Savitri," and "The Synthesis of Yoga." In these texts, he explored themes of evolution, the nature of reality, and the potential for human beings to attain a higher state of consciousness.
In 1968, the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, which he founded, established Auroville, an experimental township aimed at promoting human unity and spiritual growth. Auroville continues to attract people from around the world who seek to live in harmony and pursue spiritual development.
Sri Aurobindo passed away on December 5, 1950, but his teachings and philosophy continue to influence spiritual seekers, educators, and thinkers globally. His vision of a transformed humanity and a divine life on Earth remains a guiding principle for many.