To:
Mr. Suresh Nambath,
Editor,
The Hindu, Chennai
Subject: In Support of Your Article on Auroville Governing Board’s Visit
Dear Mr. Nambath,
I am writing to express my support and appreciation for the article titled “Auroville Governing Board Reviews Ongoing Projects” published in The Hindu on October 2nd, 2024. The article provided a valuable overview of the recent visit by members of the Auroville Governing Board (GB) and highlighted crucial steps toward aligning Auroville’s development with its founding vision of Human Unity and progress.
While some have criticized the lack of engagement with certain interest groups within Auroville, I believe that the Governing Board’s efforts represent a long-overdue shift toward much-needed reforms. These reforms are vital to ensure that Auroville does not remain in a state of stagnation, controlled by a small group of individuals who have hindered the collective growth and development of this unique experiment in human unity. For decades, these groups have prioritized personal interests over the broader community’s aspirations, stalling Auroville’s progress.
The article correctly points out the engagement with various working groups, which are essential to advancing projects that will bring Auroville closer to its original ideals. The GB’s interaction with bodies such as the Auroville Town Development Council and the Land Board marks a significant step toward manifesting the Galaxy Plan, Auroville’s long-intended blueprint for city planning. This plan has been obstructed for too long by those resistant to any meaningful development.
As someone closely involved in Auroville’s affairs, I would like to add that the pushback the GB faces from a few influential families—who have maintained a near-colonial control over the community—has unfortunately led to a deeply entrenched cancel culture of boycott and non-cooperation. These families have consistently blocked genuine efforts at community-wide participation and progress, maintaining a grip on resources and decision-making in ways that do not serve Auroville’s purpose.
In this climate of constant attacks and non-cooperation of a select few and loud silence of the large presence, it is understandable that the GB has begun seeking advice from a trusted few. However, I hope the GB does not lose sight of the broader community. The loud, often disrespectful voices of this select group should not lead to the alienation of the entire Residents’ Assembly. Instead, the GB should focus on engaging with those members who are genuinely committed to Auroville’s ideals but are perhaps less vocal. This silent majority remains sidelined by the dominance of a few, but they too have a deep interest in the ordained future of the City.
The way forward lies in finding common ground with the broader Residents’ Assembly—while excluding these disruptive elements—and bringing the community together to manifest Auroville’s aspirations. Moving ahead without engaging the majority of residents could undermine the very spirit that Auroville was meant to embody.
I appreciate the article’s balanced portrayal of the Governing Board’s objectives, which aim to drive Auroville’s progress while honoring its foundational principles. It is encouraging to see steps being taken to address the long-standing issues that have hampered Auroville’s growth and inclusivity.
Thank you again for covering this important development. I look forward to continued reporting on the efforts to align Auroville’s future with its original vision of Human Unity and Global Peace. A much-needed positive piece of news amid the growing chaos and insecurities around the world.
Warm regards,
Lakshay Dharan
AWARE Auroville
