The Auroville and Matri mandir

In continuation of my reminiscences from my last holiday, this blog is dedicated to the serenity and peace of the Auroville Ashram in Pondicherry and the beautiful Golden dome of Matri Mandir in its campus.

The first greeting into the campus is the Visitors centre resplendent with artistic photography and abstract sculptures conveying a much deeper meaning to those interested to delve into them. The host/hostess at the reception is most probably a polite foreigner, though there are Indians working there as well, who with a very characteristic gentleness, hands the free passes to view the Matri Mandir. The greeting itself is so polite and peaceful, that it fills the visitor with equivalent ease and relaxation.

As one makes the way on foot through the earthy path leading to the Matri mandir, one is educated at regular intervals of the purpose of The Ashram and how it came into existence through exhibitions of posters and placards at certain places. As the path unwinds further, one is happily led into the serenity of the greenery and gentle landscaping of the place. One can almost taste the peace in the air, cool and gentle as the entire surrounding.

As the destination approaches, one heralds a huge banyan tree with numeous prop roots supporting it from the ground, the symbol of wisdom and meditation. Finally across the bend, the first glimpse of the beautiful Matri mandir can be seen, so happily situated across the sprawling lawns of the Auroville Ashram, distinct with its shimmering golden exterior from the rays of the sun. Its a place solely meant for meditation, to search the inner peace. Open only for 4 hours a day, which I do not think is the right, as how can one bind the pursuit of inner peace in a time limit of 4 hours a day. But it is the rule there so has to be adhered.

The most starking fact about the place is its simplicity. it is the most greenest and eco-friendly complex, as the resident Ashramites who come to spend time in meditation from all over the world, use bicycles for transportation in the huge campus. Everything from the handicrafts industry inside the campus to the prepartion of meals is done with the intent to use the most greenest means without causing any harm to the environment.

It was a relish to visit such a place and witness people living in such supreme tranquility.