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Aurobindo Ghosh
Aurobindo Ghosh, commonly known as Sri Aurobindo, was a prominent Indian philosopher, nationalist, and spiritual leader born on August 15, 1872, in Calcutta (now Kolkata). His early education in England exposed him to Western literature and philosophy, which significantly influenced his later thoughts and writings. Upon returning to India in 1893, he became involved in the Indian nationalist movement and played a crucial role in the struggle for independence from British rule.
Role in India’s Freedom Movement:
- He was associated with the Bengal National College and the Anushilan Samiti, a revolutionary group advocating for India’s independence.
- Aurobindo’s writings in newspapers such as Bande Mataram and Karmayogin articulated a vision of complete freedom (Swaraj) from colonial rule and inspired many young Indians to join the nationalist cause124.
- His political activism peaked during the Anti-Partition Movement of 1905, which protested against the British decision to partition Bengal.
- Aurobindo called for boycotts of British goods and institutions, promoting a form of nationalism that combined spiritual ideals with political action.
- However, his revolutionary activities led to his arrest in 1908 during the Alipore Bomb Case, where he faced charges related to bombings aimed at British officials. Although acquitted due to lack of evidence, this period of imprisonment profoundly impacted his worldview.
Transition to Philosophy and Spirituality:
- Following his release from prison, Aurobindo experienced a significant transformation.
- During his solitary confinement, he had mystical experiences that shifted his focus from political activism to spiritual exploration.
- In 1910, he moved to Pondicherry (now Puducherry), where he dedicated himself entirely to spiritual pursuits, developing what he called Integral Yoga. This approach is aimed at achieving a divine life on earth through personal spiritual evolution.
- Aurobindo’s philosophical works, such as The Life Divine and Synthesis of Yoga, reflect his belief that human beings could evolve spiritually to attain higher states of consciousness.
- He proposed that this evolution was essential not only for individual liberation but also for societal transformation.
- His teachings emphasised that true nationalism was rooted in spirituality rather than mere political ideology, asserting that “nationalism is a spiritual thing” rather than simply a political programme.
Examples of His Philosophical Influence:
- Integral Yoga: Aurobindo’s Integral Yoga integrates aspects of various yogic practices with an emphasis on personal and collective transformation. This holistic approach encourages practitioners to engage with all facets of life—physical, mental, and spiritual—to realise their full potential.
