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Who is Sri Aurobindo and what is his background?

Sri Aurobindo was a prominent Indian philosopher, yogi, and spiritual leader who lived from 1872 to 1950. He is widely recognized as one of the greatest spiritual masters of the 20th century and is revered by many as a revolutionary thinker and visionary.

Born in Calcutta, India, Sri Aurobindo was raised in a highly educated and affluent family. His father, Dr. Krishna Dhun Ghose, was a prominent physician and his mother, Swarnalata Devi, was a devoutly religious woman. From a young age, Sri Aurobindo showed a keen interest in spirituality and philosophy, and he was greatly influenced by the teachings of his grandfather who was a scholar of Sanskrit and Hindu scriptures.

After completing his education in England, Sri Aurobindo returned to India and became involved in the Indian independence movement. He was a fierce nationalist and played a crucial role in the struggle for India's freedom from British rule. However, his approach to the movement was unique, as he believed that true freedom could only be achieved through spiritual evolution and a transformation of consciousness.

In 1908, Sri Aurobindo faced imprisonment for his involvement in the independence movement. It was during this time that he experienced a profound spiritual awakening and began to delve deeper into his spiritual practices. He eventually left politics and retreated to Pondicherry, a French colony in India, where he spent the rest of his life in seclusion, focusing on his spiritual pursuits.

In Pondicherry, Sri Aurobindo established an ashram and developed his philosophy of Integral Yoga, which aimed at the evolution of human consciousness and the transformation of the individual and society. He believed that through the practice of yoga, one could tap into the infinite potential of the human mind and achieve a higher state of consciousness, leading to a more harmonious and enlightened way of living.

Sri Aurobindo's teachings and writings have had a profound impact on the spiritual landscape of India and the world. He wrote extensively on various subjects, including yoga, philosophy, and spirituality, and his works continue to inspire and guide people on their spiritual journey. His vision of a divine life on earth and his emphasis on the unity of all beings have made him a revered figure and a source of inspiration for many.

In conclusion, Sri Aurobindo was a highly influential spiritual leader who dedicated his life to the pursuit of spiritual evolution and the transformation of society. His teachings continue to inspire people to strive for a higher consciousness and a more harmonious way of living.