Participants’ feedback

This programme has helped me uncover channels of awareness and understanding within me, of a deeper sense of my own self, of Auroville’s presence in my life, and of my role in Auroville.

The incredibly generous sharing we have been privileged to experience this week has shown a glimpse of the great faith, love and grace at play.

You have been both inspiring and practical - a wonderful ‘integral’ approach. With heartfelt gratitude

Because I come from a local area, I thought I knew it all. During the programme, we went into communities whose gates I only passed by and got to meet people that I only knew by face, not even by name. After the programme, I realized that I know so little of this place that is so familiar.

My suggestion would be that all the Aurovilians should do this programme as a refresher course!

The spirit of the Auroville module has given me the opportunity to put into my own words the “teachings” of the Mother and Sri Aurobindo and internalize the true meaning of Auroville.

I have the feeling that I have grown during this week and understood some of the reasons that have taken me here.-.-

I was at first reluctant to attend because of the timings and length of the programme but it turned out to be an opportunity to meet new people with innovative ideas for the growth of Auroville and to work collectively. I am glad I did it. For Newcomers who have just arrived, it is a great programme to better integrate. I guess it is less profitable for Newcomers who have been here already for a few months or years!

I never felt reluctant but I did not expect it to be so inspiring as it proved to be. I was persuaded and enthused from the very moment it started.

I think it should be an integral part of the Entry process, otherwise Newcomers may miss out by not making the time to participate. Regardless of one’s history with Auroville, it is an incredibly important and valuable experience.

The programme gave a new vision of spirit and a thirst for collaboration.

Several Aurovilian friends came up to me. “Oh, I hear you participated in the Newcomer programme!” Yes, I did. Why? As one of the “older” Aurovilians (having first arrived in 1975) I am content and not yet disenchanted with my life and work in Auroville. But for some time I also vaguely sensed it might be high time to get in touch with another Auroville. As week went on, I began to gradually feel that each and every one in the group was here for a higher purpose, and that each and every one had been guided here and had gone through a more or less long, more or less conscious preparation for their life here. For me it was a unique experience. I definitely risk sounding pompous when I say that I sensed the very subtle emergence of a group soul this past week. And this feels like an unexpected answer to an ancient almost forgotten longing.

One thing that could be complementary to this programme is once a month reunions when the Newcomer can reconnect. Maybe they can play the collective games like we did in the programme or listen to more talks, visit more places or just meet and talk. It would be wonderful to have something like this. Otherwise our normal circle of people we meet is limited.

I think you should always visit a community outside the geographical circle of Auroville - e g Sadhana Forest like we did. In a way, it did help me to see Auroville from a distance and give me a different perspective.

Spending a full day in a community to partake in the daily activities, including physical activities, would be nice to be better acquainted with day to day living.

For a fruitful community life, I wish there was a module on conflict prevention or resolution since we live in a place dedicated to Human unity.

The rhythm is intense due to the time constraints. Yet I would suggest giving more time to each participant to express themselves. Perhaps less modules?