Book Title: The Mother: A Life of Sri Aurobindo’s Spiritual Collaborator
Author: Peter Heehs
Publisher: Fourth Estate India
Number of Pages: 352
ISBN: 978-9365691542
Date Published: Feb. 20, 2025
Price: INR 596
Book Review
Peter Heehs’ “The Mother: A Life of Sri Aurobindo’s Spiritual Collaborator” offers a detailed account of Mirra Alfassa, known as “The Mother,” and her vital role in shaping the Sri Aurobindo Ashram. After Sri Aurobindo withdrew from public life in 1926, The Mother became the guiding force behind the ashram, overseeing its activities and nurturing its spiritual aspirants (sadhaks). Heehs, a historian and founder of the Sri Aurobindo Ashram Archives, brings his meticulous research and balanced perspective to this biography, shedding light on her profound influence on Integral Yoga and the spiritual community in Pondicherry.
The book delves into several key themes, including The Mother’s spiritual collaboration with Sri Aurobindo, her leadership of the ashram, and her vision of human consciousness and evolution. Heehs highlights how her teachings integrated Eastern spiritual traditions with Western influences, making her a unique figure in India’s spiritual history. Drawing from rare primary sources, he reconstructs her journey with remarkable depth, exploring how her presence transformed the ashram into a thriving spiritual center.
One of the most debated aspects of The Mother’s life is her relationship with Sri Aurobindo. Heehs portrays their connection as one of deep spiritual partnership rather than personal romance. He describes moments of reverence and devotion, such as The Mother kneeling before Sri Aurobindo in an act of surrender, but he emphasizes that their bond was rooted in shared spiritual ideals. While some critics have accused Heehs of misrepresenting their relationship, his account remains focused on their collective mission to advance Integral Yoga.
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Despite Heehs’ scholarly rigor, the book has sparked controversy among some followers of Sri Aurobindo, who believe that any portrayal deviating from traditional hagiography is disrespectful. However, Heehs’ nuanced approach offers a well-rounded view of The Mother’s life, providing valuable insights into her spiritual philosophy and leadership. For readers interested in Indian spirituality and historical biographies, this book serves as an enlightening and thought-provoking read.
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