Sri Aurobindo
ISBN: 81-85137-57-9
271 Pages, Mira Aditi

Reviewed by Rajun Shah
Hindu Voice UK, May 2008

“India’s Rebirth” is a post-humous compilation of Sri Aurobindo's writings, talks and speeches from 1893-1950. Sri Aurobindo (1872-1950) was a Hindu mystic, yogi, philosopher and freedom fighter. The book records and traces his thought on a variety of subjects relating to the direction which he believed Hindus should tread in order for India to regain her ancient brilliance in the modern age.

In 1893 Sri Aurobindo was just 21 years old, and had just returned to India from a British education. He soon became involved in the Nationalist (i.e. freedom struggle) movement, which was then in its early stages. It is fascinating to read his early writings which reveal the lucid brilliance of his young mind. He writes with piercing insight into problems of the time, and one only wishes that we had people of his caliber with us here today to give us direction in our current directionless state.

As the book progresses one notices a gradual shift in the substance of the writings, changing from a more outward political and social insight to a more religious and spiritual content. However Sri Aurobindo’s brand of spirituality was worldlier than other yogis and sages. Even after leaving active politics and taking to a life of yoga, he continues to offer robust and practical insights for those still involved in the worldly struggle. His idea in leaving politics was not to escape to moksha but to rediscover a way that spirituality can transform not just the individual but also the whole of society and planet, as was the way of the Vedic seers.

It would not be an exaggeration to say that every page of “India’s Rebirth” pulsates with energy. It is the kind of book that can pick you up when your motivation slacks and bring clarity in the face of confusion. A warning though – it is not for every one. Individuals with a decent grounding in Hinduism and modern Indian history will likely love every page of it, while those who don’t are more likely to shrug.

The full text of India's Rebirth is available to read online here