Sri Aurobindo was an influential Indian philosopher, poet, and yogi who played a pivotal role in the Indian independence movement and developed a unique spiritual philosophy that blends Eastern and Western thought. His work emphasized the evolution of human consciousness and the potential for spiritual transformation.
Early Life and Career
Sri Aurobindo Ghosh was born on August 15, 1872, in Calcutta to Krishna Dhan Ghose and Swarnalata Devi.
He cleared the Indian Civil Service Examination in 1890 but could not join the service due to failure in the horsemanship test.
In 1893, Aurobindo accepted a position in the Baroda state service. Over 13 years, he advanced to become the principal of Baroda State College.
Eventually, he left his role in Baroda to join the Bengal National College.
Revolutionary Activities
Role in Freedom Movement: Aurobindo emerged as a prominent figure in the freedom struggle, writing bold articles for the English newspaper ‘Bande Mataram’ and contributing to the Bengali weekly ‘Yugantar’.
Advocacy for Swaraj: He launched the English weekly ‘Dharma’, promoting the message of Swaraj (self-rule) and advocating for freedom from British colonial rule.
Political Engagement: As a founding member of the Anushilan Samiti, he protested against British oppression.
He was a vocal opponent of the 1905 Partition of Bengal, urging people to boycott British institutions and goods.
Congress Participation: At the 1906 session of the Indian National Congress, he supported key objectives of Swadeshi, Swaraj, education, and boycott.
He presided over the Nationalist Conference at Surat in 1907
Sri Aurobindo was prosecuted for sedition in 1907 and acquitted.
Involved in the Alipore Bomb Case, Aurobindo faced charges and was sentenced to imprisonment in 1908.
He spent a year in solitary confinement at the Alipore Central Jail in Calcutta before being released with the help of Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das.
Spiritual Pursuits in Puducherry
Following his release, Aurobindo retired from active politics and devoted himself to spiritual pursuits.
Sri Aurobindo had begun the practice of Yoga in 1905 in Baroda.
In 1908 he had the first of several fundamental spiritual realisations.
In 1910 he withdrew from politics and went to Pondicherry in order to devote himself entirely to his inner spiritual life and work.
During his forty years in Pondicherry he evolved a new method of spiritual practice, which he called the Integral Yoga.
He founded the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in 1926.
Aurobindo dedicated his life to developing his philosophy of “integral” yoga, aimed at elevating human consciousness and self-awareness.
Major Works
Literary Contributions: Sri Aurobindo authored a wide range of works including:
Essays on the Gita (1922)
The Life Divine (1939)
Collected Poems and Plays (1942)
The Synthesis of Yoga (1948)
The Human Cycle (1949)
The Ideal of Human Unity (1949)
Savitri: A Legend and a Symbol (1950)
On the Veda (1956)
Contemporary Relevance of His Teachings
Aurobindo’s concepts of integral nationalism promote harmony and inclusive governance, encouraging the welfare of all communities.
His teachings advocate for a balance between material progress and spiritual values, fostering an environment conducive to spiritual growth.
He supported a holistic education system that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit, inspiring reforms in value-based education and creativity.
His vision of a harmonious society transcends caste, gender, and religious barriers, guiding efforts to address social inequalities.
Aurobindo’s emphasis on human unity beyond national boundaries offers a framework for international cooperation and understanding.
He championed a balanced approach to development, promoting eco-friendly policies and environmental conservation.
His call for ethical leadership rooted in moral values offers guidance for politicians and leaders to prioritize public welfare.
Aurobindo’s focus on inner growth and self-realization underscores the importance of personal transformation in societal progress.
His concept of supramental consciousness continues to inspire those seeking higher states of human evolution and self-realization.
Impact on National Consciousness
His teachings rekindled interest in Indian spiritual traditions and philosophies, fostering national pride and identity.
Aurobindo’s work promoted the appreciation and preservation of Indian cultural heritage and Sanskrit literature.
His efforts in nation-building and the establishment of Auroville emphasized the unity of all people, regardless of their differences.
He established the Sri Aurobindo International Centre of Education, advocating for a system combining academic and spiritual growth.
His collaboration with Mirra Alfassa (The Mother) symbolized the fusion of cultural values and modernity.
Aurobindo’s teachings bridged the gap between scientific inquiry and spiritual exploration, promoting a holistic worldview.
He inspired many to engage in social and political movements, advocating for progressive change.
Sri Aurobindo Ghosh’s teachings offer profound insights into spiritual growth, societal transformation, and national consciousness. His legacy continues to influence contemporary thought, guiding individuals and communities towards a higher state of being and a more harmonious and ethical society.
