Sri Aurobindo Ashram grew with the arrival of the Mother, a French by birth, in 1920. For Sri Aurobindo’s followers, the Mother’s and Sri Aurobindo’s consciousness were the same. After Sri Aurobindo’s death in 1950, the Mother was the sole guide for all who looked upon Sri Aurobindo as their Master— be they in the Ashram or outside. The Mother passed away in 1973. The Ashram hums with activities as work is an offering by the Ashramites to the Divine — and hence a means of their Yoga.
Samadhi of Sri Aurobindo & the Mother: This is in the main premises of the Ashram where Sri Aurobindo and the Mother lived. The Samadhi is always decorated with flowers in charming patterns. The atmosphere is meditative. With special permission a visitor can see Sri Aurobindo’s Room. The 21st of February (the Mother’s Birthday), 24th of April, 15th of August (Sri Aurobindo’s Birthday) and 24th November are known as Darshan Days, because Sri Aurobindo and the Mother used to bless the people on these days. The days are still observed with meditations and visits to Sri Aurobindo’s Room.
Sri Aurobindo International Centre of Education is a wing of the Ashram where education is imparted keeping the integral development of the student in view. From the kindergarten to the Higher Course, emphasis is on the free and inner growth of the child, matched by a sound physical culture. The Ashram’s playgrounds and gymnasium are interesting for the young visitors. They can obtain permission from the Department as Physical Education of the Ashram.
Ashram also pampers the growth Cottage Industries. Hand-made paper of high quality, perfumes, incense-sticks, embroidery, batik, and marble works are among a variety of things the different units of the Ashram produce. The Ashram Reception Service can help in showing the visitors around if they report at 8 a.m.