Auroville Witness

One seeker’s serendipitous encounters on the way to Pondy, The Mother, and Auroville.

An exploration of two very different forms of “violence” in the current situation, as well as the conditions for true dialogue and reconciliation.

This article presents excerpts from letters, statements, essays, and a petition. They address in one way or another the March 20, 2026 destruction of the Youth Centre in Auroville. We hope that they give insight into what the Centre means for the Auroville Community and how the event is emblematic of the AVFO’s ongoing destructive approach towards the history, accomplishments, environment, and culture of Auroville. We have linked to the full original of most pieces so you can read further.

How collective solutions emerge in a complex evolutionary and spiritual work like Auroville.

How the emphasis on rules, authority, and permission has replaced trust with efficiency, and spontaneity with caution and paralysis.

A conversation exploring Peter’s time in Auroville, his experience writing for Auroville Today, the effects of the current administration, and his ongoing connection.

One woman’s journey of helping to create the new society.

A tribute and eulogy for Roy, a beloved writer, editor, and quiet presence in Auroville.

A voice of courage tells the truth about the administration’s many ways of constricting and stifling freedom, with effects on housing, work, loss of work, and movement towards creating a profit-driven urban city.

Can the Governing Board engage with residents, and harmony be re-established?