Growing Up in Auroville: How a Utopian Community Shaped My Values and Outlook on Life.

When I was just three years old, my mother took me to India from Australia. She had discovered a book on Sri Aurobindo in the Theosophical Society in Sydney, and with her newfound curiosity and openness, we joined Auroville, a budding experimental community in southern India.

At the time, Auroville was just starting, and we moved onto a desert plot to attempt to cultivate the land and get involved in the birth of a city. Idealism was at the forefront, and the new utopia was beginning.

Reflecting back on my childhood, I am struck by the profound influence that growing up in Auroville has had on me. From an early age, I was exposed to a unique way of living and a community committed to creating a more just and sustainable world.

In Auroville, there was a strong emphasis on healthy living, both mentally and physically. We were encouraged to explore our creativity, connect with nature, and develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. There was a sense of collective responsibility and a shared vision for a better world.

Growing up in Auroville also taught me the importance of self-reliance and community. We were encouraged to be self-sufficient and to support each other in times of need. The sense of belonging to a larger community was a powerful motivator for personal growth and development.

As I look back on my childhood, I am grateful for the experience of growing up in Auroville. It has shaped my values, my outlook on life, and my commitment to creating positive change in the world. The lessons I learned during my formative years have stayed with me and continue to inspire me to this day.