The City of Dawn and Human Unity : Auroville
‘Stayed around this unique place for about two months, and the evolution of Auroville heard about was truly spectacular. While its detailed history is easily available online, I want to emphasize its extraordinary nature.
Auroville, located near Pondicherry, is a unique and progressive township dedicated to the idea of human unity and sustainable living. Founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa, also known as “The Mother,” Auroville was envisioned as a universal city where people from all over the world could live together harmoniously, irrespective of their nationality, religion, or background. The central philosophy behind Auroville is the pursuit of human unity and spiritual growth, aiming to create a space that fosters peace, self-development, and collective well-being.
At the heart of Auroville is the Matrimandir, a stunning golden sphere that serves as the spiritual center of the township. It is surrounded by lush gardens and is meant for meditation and inner reflection. The Matrimandir’s architectural design is both futuristic and deeply symbolic, representing the pursuit of higher consciousness and unity. Visitors are welcome to visit the gardens and the surrounding areas, but entry to the Matrimandir itself requires prior permission and an introductory session.
Auroville is not just about spirituality; it is also a thriving community focused on sustainability and eco-friendly living. The township is home to numerous organic farms, renewable energy projects, and eco-friendly buildings made from local materials. People here follow a simple, self-sustained lifestyle, and Auroville promotes education, arts, and crafts as part of its development.
The township is home to residents from all over the world, and it continues to attract visitors and volunteers who wish to experience its unique lifestyle and philosophy. The Auroville Visitors’ Center offers information about the township’s history, projects, and activities, allowing visitors to learn more about its ideals and contributions to sustainable living.
While staying around Auroville was good, I personally didn’t feel deeply integrated into the community; it felt somewhat like a closed circle, not always open to most people. However, I did meet a few individuals who were part of various communities, and through one such connection, I ended up attending a music festival in Auroville.
It started around 6 PM, and I’d received an invitation from a band member who was also a singer, originally from Kerala. When I arrived, the music was truly nice, and people slowly and freely began to dance. More and more people started to gather. I was alone at that point, as Sabine was at our homestay. I called her, telling her what a great festival it was, and she soon joined me, quickly getting into the rhythm. We danced for a while, then decided to explore the food stalls. There were people from different countries, each making their own unique dishes.
We ordered some food and waited. While doing so, I met a man from the USA. He greeted me with “my nega” – I was happy and just laughed. We started talking, and he was an amazing person. He recounted his life’s journey, which was truly fascinating to hear. Meanwhile, some people started a fire show; brave performers handled fire sticks smoothly, creating dazzling displays. We went closer, and I began taking pictures while Sabine actually joined in with the performers. Seeing people from different countries performing together, I felt, truly captured the essence of Auroville: people from diverse backgrounds coming together and uniting here. After the fire show, we returned to the music festival. The song playing was amazing, and everyone was dancing with renewed energy. After that, we finally headed back to our stay.
1.Auroville Marathon: Unity in Motion
The Auroville Marathon is a popular annual event held in the unique township of Auroville, near Pondicherry, and is celebrated for its emphasis on human unity, sustainability, and wellness. This marathon stands out not only for its athletic challenge but also for its connection to the ideals of Auroville. The event attracts participants from around the world who come to take part in various categories, including full marathon (42.195 km), half marathon (21.1 km), 10K, and 5K runs, as well as a relay race.
The Auroville Marathon is special because it takes place amidst the serene and natural environment of Auroville, with the race routes winding through lush forests, rural landscapes, and the peaceful, sustainable community of Auroville itself. The event promotes not just physical fitness but also community spirit and environmental consciousness, with participants encouraged to embrace Auroville’s values of unity, peace, and eco-friendliness.
In addition to the race, the marathon weekend features various cultural and community activities that reflect the values of Auroville. The event brings together people from different cultures and backgrounds, making it a celebration of diversity and unity. It is a meaningful way for participants to connect with the Auroville philosophy while engaging in a challenging physical activity.
2.The Temple of Harmony
Near Auroville, one of the prominent temples is the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, located in the heart of Pondicherry, about a 30-minute drive away. While not a traditional temple in the strictest sense, it is a spiritual center dedicated to the teachings and philosophy of Sri Aurobindo, one of India’s most revered philosophers and spiritual leaders. The Ashram is a peaceful retreat, offering a serene space for meditation and reflection, much like a temple for those seeking spiritual growth and inner peace.
However, if you’re looking for a more traditional temple experience near Auroville, the Manakula Vinayagar Temple in Pondicherry is a popular destination. This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, is known for its vibrant and colorful architecture. The temple is located close to the French Quarter in Pondicherry and is a significant cultural and religious landmark for both locals and tourists. Devotees visit the temple to seek blessings for success and prosperity, and the atmosphere is filled with devotion, especially during festivals.
Another nearby temple of interest is the Guruvayurappan Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located in the town of Guruvayur, around 70 km from Auroville. This temple is renowned for its ancient architecture and spiritual significance, attracting pilgrims who come to offer prayers and seek blessings.
3. homestay in Auroville
Vellayani Lake serves not only as a stunning natural landmark but also as a agricultural hub for the communities surrounding it. The lake, the largest freshwater in Thiruvananthapuram, plays a major role in the local ecosystem, influencing both agriculture and the livelihoods for the people around it.
Vellayani Lake is an important source of irrigation for the agricultural lands that border it. The lake’s waters support a diverse range of crops, with rice being the predominant crop cultivated in the surrounding fields. The fertile soil, enriched by the lake’s nutrient-rich waters, creates an ideal environment for various agricultural activities.
In addition to rice, farmers in the Vellayani region grow a variety of other crops, including vegetables, fruits, and spices. The local climate, characterized by its tropical monsoon weather, allows for multiple cropping seasons, enabling farmers to maximize their yields throughout the year. The best thing is many farmers engage in organic farming, reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and they are instead utilizing natural methods to enhance soil health and crop productivity.
Despite the advantages provided by Vellayani Lake, agricultural practices face challenges. Climate change, water pollution, and the encroachment of urban development threaten the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Farmers are increasingly aware of the need for sustainable practices to ensure the longevity of their crops and the health of the lake.
Community initiatives focused on conservation and sustainable agricultural practices are gaining traction. Workshops and training sessions educate farmers on organic methods, water conservation, and eco-friendly pest management, fostering a deeper connection to the land and its resources.
4. a place for traditional martial arts
Kalari Gram in Auroville is a unique and vibrant center dedicated to the ancient Indian martial art of Kalaripayattu. This traditional art form, originating from Kerala, focuses on physical conditioning, flexibility, self-defense techniques, and spiritual growth. Kalari Gram was established to preserve and promote Kalaripayattu in its purest form while offering a space for both practitioners and visitors to connect with the deeper aspects of this discipline.
The center offers training in Kalaripayattu for all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Classes are taught by skilled masters who have deep knowledge and expertise in the art, guiding students through its intricate movements, physical postures, and weaponry. The practice incorporates dynamic and fluid movements that combine physical strength with mental discipline, making it not only a form of self-defense but also a way to cultivate balance, focus, and mindfulness.
Kalari Gram also serves as a space for those interested in the holistic approach of Kalaripayattu, which includes elements of yoga, meditation, and traditional healing practices. The center is beautifully integrated into the natural environment of Auroville, offering a peaceful, immersive experience for anyone who seeks to explore this ancient art.
In addition to training and workshops, Kalari Gram organizes performances and demonstrations, showcasing the grace and power of Kalaripayattu. These performances often include the use of weapons like swords, shields, and sticks, which are an integral part of the training. The center also emphasizes the spiritual and philosophical aspects of Kalaripayattu, which align with the overall vision of Auroville for promoting unity, peace, and self-development.
Kalari Gram is a unique destination in Auroville, offering not just physical training, but an opportunity to explore an ancient tradition that bridges the body, mind, and spirit. It’s a wonderful place for those looking to connect with the cultural heritage of India while experiencing a transformative discipline that nurtures both personal growth and physical well-being.
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There was a sense of a shared journey towards a better way of living.
thank you
Rahul
