In memoriam - Shipra Di

Shipra Di from the Sri Aurobindo Ashram passed away on 2 January at 2:35 pm in the Ashram Nursing Home.

Born in 1935, she spent her early years in Delhi and Shimla. In 1956, having completed her undergraduate studies in history, she started teaching at the Mother’s School in New Delhi, which is where she met Chamanlal Ji, whom she married in 1962 with the Mother’s blessings. The Mother gave permission to the couple to work in Australia for some years, where Chamanlal Ji worked with the CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization), and where Shipra Di served as a librarian.

Her visit to the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in 1968 was profound. She was tasked by the Mother to be part of the cooking team for delegates during Auroville’s inauguration, and from that time she maintained a deep bond with Auroville. In 1972, she took up Mother’s invitations to join the Ashram and reside permanently in Pondicherry.

Shipra Di played a pivotal role in several organisations, including the early development of The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) in Pondicherry, establishing the solar energy unit in the Ashram, and serving as a founding member of the Keystone Foundation in 1993.

Shipra Di’s exceptional work in documenting and disseminating research and experimentation in renewable energy earned her the reputation of being a “human google” long before the search engine was invented. With her remarkable memory and vast network, she could effortlessly connect people to ex-students, publications, or projects, providing the exact documentation, research, or information they needed.

For over two decades, she served as the key point of contact for the renowned Golconde building in Pondicherry. Architects, planners, and designers visiting the Ashram were treated to Shilpa Di’s personalised tours, enriched with captivating anecdotes about the building’s history, along with insightful interpretations of its spatial design, materials, and architectural details. These tours inspired many visitors to feature Golconde in prestigious journals and author monographs about the building.

While she dedicated herself to supporting the complex technical and administrative work of Chamanlal Ji, Shipra Di was cherished for her warmth, hospitality, and remarkable ability to create a welcoming environment. Her home was a hub of inspiration, where she hosted distinguished personalities, JRD Tata, Eckhart Tolle, Dr. BV Doshi and many more, leaving a lasting impression on all who crossed her path.

Her vibrant and nurturing spirit touched countless lives, especially students, who continued to hold her in their hearts through the decades. She was a motherly figure to many, radiating kindness, grace and unconditional love throughout her remarkable journey.

Her cremation took place on 28 January at the cremation ground at Karuvadikupam, next to Muthialpet.