A Revolutionary's Spiritual Odyssey

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose is a name that evokes patriotism, resilience, and unmatched determination in the face of adversity. Known primarily for his revolutionary role in India’s freedom struggle, Bose’s life also encompassed a profound spiritual journey that shaped his worldview and leadership. While his political ideologies and military strategies have been studied extensively, his spiritual beliefs and practices often remain overshadowed.

For Bose, spirituality was not an abstract pursuit but a guiding force that fueled his unwavering commitment to India’s liberation. Rooted in the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads, and the philosophies of Swami Vivekananda, his spiritual ethos reflected a unique blend of action, introspection, and selfless service. It was this spiritual foundation that enabled him to balance the tremendous pressures of leadership with inner strength and clarity of purpose.

This spiritual dimension of Bose’s life is as inspiring as his revolutionary persona. From his early influences within a traditional Bengali household to his encounters with sages and thinkers like Sri Aurobindo and the teachings of luminaries such as Goutam Buddha, Sant Kabir, and Guru Nanak, his journey was one of constant evolution. By integrating spirituality with nationalism, he demonstrated how inner conviction, and moral courage could translate into transformative action for the greater good.

Bose’s spiritual journey offers timeless lessons on balancing material pursuits with higher ideals, making him not only a hero of India’s independence but also a seeker of universal truth. Exploring this lesser-known side of Netaji reveals the depth of his character and the profound impact of spirituality on his life’s mission.

Early Influences: Seeds of Spirituality

Born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Odisha, Subhash Chandra Bose was brought up in a traditional Bengali household with strong spiritual underpinnings. His mother, Prabhavati Devi, was a devout woman whose religious practices left an indelible impression on young Subhash. Early exposure to scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads, and the teachings of Swami Vivekananda ignited his spiritual quest. Swami Vivekananda's philosophy of combining spiritual enlightenment with practical action particularly resonated with Bose and became a guiding principle in his life.

His father, Janakinath Bose, though a successful lawyer, also emphasized moral values and discipline, which complemented the spiritual foundation laid by his mother. This harmonious blend of discipline and spirituality became a hallmark of Bose’s character in the years to come.

A Seeker of Truth

Bose’s pursuit of spirituality was deeply tied to his search for truth and meaning. During his college years in Kolkata, he encountered the works of spiritual luminaries, which further deepened his introspection. Despite his rebellious nature against colonial authority, Bose maintained a calm and reflective inner self. His letters and writings often reveal a man grappling with existential questions and seeking solace in the divine.

The Bhagavad Gita, in particular, played a pivotal role in shaping his worldview. Bose drew strength from the Gita’s message of selfless action (Nishkama Karma) and its emphasis on duty without attachment to outcomes. This philosophy became a cornerstone of his approach to India’s freedom struggle, where he placed the cause of the nation above personal ambition. As Sant Kabir once said, "Moko kahan dhundhe re bande, main to tere paas mein" (Why do you search for me, O seeker? I am within you), Bose’s spiritual quest also reflected an inward search for strength and truth.

Encounters with Spiritual Figures

Bose’s spiritual journey was also enriched by his interactions with several spiritual leaders. One of the most significant influences was Sri Sarada Devi, the spiritual consort of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. Her blessings and the teachings of the Ramakrishna Mission inspired Bose to view spirituality as a means of service to humanity.

During his travels in India and abroad, Bose sought the counsel of various sages and thinkers. His visit to Pondicherry to meet Sri Aurobindo, the philosopher-sage and former revolutionary, was particularly transformative. Sri Aurobindo’s vision of an independent India as a spiritual entity aligned with Bose’s belief in India’s unique destiny.

In addition, Bose drew inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi’s emphasis on non-violence and spiritual practices, even though their political ideologies often diverged. He respected Gandhi’s ability to mobilize masses through a moral and spiritual appeal, and this respect influenced Bose’s own leadership.

Spirituality and Leadership

Bose’s spiritual beliefs were not confined to personal practice; they deeply influenced his leadership style and vision for India. He envisioned a nation rooted in its spiritual heritage while embracing modernity. For Bose, spirituality was not about renunciation but about action driven by higher ideals. This synthesis of spirituality and pragmatism was evident in his formation of the Indian National Army (INA), where he motivated soldiers by invoking India’s cultural and spiritual legacy.

His speeches often carried references to India’s ancient wisdom and the moral strength required for the struggle against colonial oppression. Bose’s famous call, “Give me blood, and I will give you freedom,” was not just a call to arms but also a call to awaken the latent spiritual strength within every Indian. As Kabir succinctly puts it, "Jo kare so bhare," (What you sow, so shall you reap), Bose’s life embodied the principle of taking responsibility for one’s actions and destiny. Buddha’s timeless advice, "Your work is to discover your world and then with all your heart give yourself to it," also resonates deeply with Bose’s mission of selfless service.

Trials, Exile, and Inner Strength

Bose’s life was marked by immense trials—imprisonment, exile, and constant surveillance by British authorities. Yet, his inner spiritual reservoir helped him endure these challenges with fortitude. His time in prison was often spent in reading and contemplation, drawing on spiritual texts for guidance and strength. Even during his exile in Europe and later in Southeast Asia, Bose remained connected to his roots, practicing meditation and introspection.

It is said that during his time in Mandalay Jail, he not only delved deeply into the Bhagavad Gita but also wrote extensively about his thoughts on the synthesis of Indian spirituality and modern nationalism. These writings reveal a man who balanced worldly struggles with spiritual introspection, striving to harmonize the two. Guru Nanak’s words, "He who has no faith in himself can never have faith in God," encapsulate Bose’s own belief in self-reliance and inner conviction.

Legacy of Spiritual Nationalism

Subhash Chandra Bose’s spiritual journey underscores the profound connection between India’s cultural heritage and its fight for freedom. He demonstrated that spirituality could be a powerful force in motivating collective action and shaping national identity. His life serves as a reminder that true leadership arises from a balance of inner strength and outward action.

Today, as we celebrate Bose’s contributions to India’s independence, it is essential to acknowledge the spiritual foundations of his vision. His legacy continues to inspire generations to combine courage with compassion, action with introspection, and patriotism with a deep sense of purpose.

Conclusion

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s life exemplifies the harmonious blend of spirituality and action. His spiritual journey was not a retreat from the world but an active engagement with it, driven by a higher purpose. As Guru Nanak reminds us, "Truth is high, but higher still is truthful living," Bose lived a life of authenticity, guided by his inner convictions and dedication to the greater good. Similarly, Kabir’s wisdom, "Pothi padh padh jag mua, pandit bhayo na koi; dhai akhar prem ke, jo padhe so pandit hoy" (One does not become wise by reading scriptures, but by understanding the essence of love), aligns with Bose’s belief in action rooted in compassion and duty.

His spiritual ideals did not just shape him as a leader but also left an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of the nation. Bose’s unwavering faith in India’s spiritual and cultural heritage continues to resonate today, reminding us of the profound connection between inner strength and outward transformation. His journey is a timeless lesson in balancing the material and the spiritual to create a life of purpose, resilience, and impact.

"NEVER BORN, NEVER DIED"

Introduction

"Never born, never died" evokes a profound and timeless concept, one that transcends the boundaries of conventional life and death. It suggests a state of existence beyond the limitations of birth and mortality, where an entity exists outside the normal cycle of human life. This idea can be interpreted in various philosophical, spiritual, or metaphorical ways, pointing toward the eternal or infinite nature of the soul, consciousness, or a higher form of being that is not bound by the physical world. In exploring this concept, we delve into the nature of existence itself, contemplating the possibility of immortality, transcendence, and the idea of a reality where time and death are irrelevant. This phrase challenges our conventional understanding of life, urging us to question the boundaries of life and death and to consider a more expansive view of what it means to exist. 

The name "OSHO" is derived from the ancient Japanese form of word "oceanic," (also used by William James) which represents the dissolution into the ocean of existence. He adopted this name later in life to signify his teachings' universal and timeless nature. OSHO, childhood name as Rajneesh Chandra Mohan Jain arrived on 1931, was a spiritual teacher, mystic, and founder of the Rajneesh movement. His teachings emphasized meditation, mindfulness, love, and a celebration of life. OSHO's philosophy blended Eastern spiritual traditions with Western ideas of individualism, freedom, and questioning societal norms.

Core Philosophy

Meditation and Mindfulness: OSHO placed a strong emphasis on meditation, considering it the core of his teachings. He developed various meditation techniques, including dynamic meditation, which involved physical activity followed by stillness, helping individuals to release pent-up emotions and reach a state of awareness. As he said, "Meditation is nothing but a device to make you aware of your real self—which is not created by you, which cannot be created, but which you already are."

Love and Relationships: He taught that love should be unconditional and free from possessiveness. OSHO believed in the importance of authentic relationships where individuals could express themselves freely without societal constraints. He once stated, "Love is the goal, life is the journey."

Freedom and Rebellion: OSHO encouraged people to challenge traditional beliefs, societal norms, and religious dogmas. He was critical of institutionalized religions and promoted a personal, experiential approach to spirituality. He famously said, "Be—don't try to become."

Zorba the Buddha: This concept combines the Greek figure Zorba, symbolizing a life of enjoyment and pleasure, with the spiritual, meditative Buddha. OSHO envisioned a balance between materialism and spirituality, where one could live a joyous, earthly life while being spiritually aware. He articulated, "I teach you to be both: to be Zorba the Greek and Gautam the Buddha together."

Spiritual Vision

OSHO's spiritual vision was centred on the idea of creating a "new man" who is spiritually aware, intellectually free, and capable of enjoying life fully. He believed that traditional religious practices were outdated and that a new approach to spirituality was necessary for the modern world.

The New Man: OSHO's concept of the "new man" was someone who embodies both the qualities of Zorba and Buddha. This new man would be deeply spiritual yet fully engaged in the pleasures of the world, integrating the material and the spiritual. He described this new human as "a mystic, a poet, a scientist all together."

Inner Transformation: He emphasized the importance of inner transformation over external rituals. OSHO taught that true spirituality comes from within and that individuals must undergo a personal journey to discover their inner truth and freedom. He believed, "The greatest freedom is to be free of one's mind."

Sannyas: OSHO redefined the traditional concept of Sannyas (renunciation). Instead of renouncing the world, his sannyasins were encouraged to live in the world, enjoy it, and use it as a means to grow spiritually. This approach was revolutionary, as it brought spirituality into everyday life. He remarked, "Be realistic: Plan for a miracle."

Silent Transmission: OSHO believed in the power of silent transmission of spiritual energy from the master to the disciple. He often used silence as a tool for teaching, allowing his presence to communicate deeper truths that words could not convey. He noted, "Silence is the language of god, all else is poor translation."

Dynamic Meditation: Developed by Osho. It is an active form of meditation designed to help individuals break free from mental and emotional blockages. Unlike traditional forms of meditation, which often emphasize stillness, Dynamic Meditation involves intense physical activity, including deep breathing, chaotic movements, cathartic release of emotions, and silence. The process is divided into five stages, which encourage participants to express repressed emotions, release pent-up energy, and achieve a state of heightened awareness. This energetic practice aims to bring individuals into the present moment, facilitating a profound sense of liberation and inner peace.

His Meditative Voice and Words from Silence

OSHO delivered numerous discourses on a variety of topics, which have been compiled into books and recordings. Some of his most famous discourses include:

• "The Mustard Seed": A series of talks on the Gospel of Thomas, delivered in the early 1970s in Pune, India.
• "The Dhammapada: The Way of the Buddha": A detailed commentary on the Dhammapada, the teachings of Buddha, also delivered in Pune.
• "Yoga: The Alpha and the Omega": A comprehensive series on Patanjali's Yoga Sutras.
• "The Book of Secrets": Discourses on the ancient text "Vigyan Bhairav Tantra," held in Mumbai and Pune.

OSHO's talks took place in various locations, with the most notable being:

• Pune Ashram (Osho International Meditation Resort): Located in Pune, India, this was OSHO's primary residence and the centre of his activities during the 1970s and after his return from the United States.
• Rajneeshpuram: The commune in Oregon, USA, where OSHO delivered numerous discourses during the early 1980s.
• Woodlands, Mumbai: Before moving to Pune, OSHO gave several talks at his residence in Mumbai.

Controversies

OSHO's life and teachings were not without controversy. His unconventional views, lifestyle, and the practices of his followers often attracted criticism and legal challenges.

Sexual Liberation: OSHO's open discussions on sex and his liberal attitudes towards it were considered scandalous, especially in conservative societies. He believed that sexual repression led to societal problems and advocated for a healthy, open attitude towards sexuality. He asserted, "Sex has been the greatest problem for religious people."

Wealth and Materialism: Unlike many spiritual leaders, OSHO did not denounce wealth. He lived a luxurious lifestyle, owning numerous Rolls-Royces, which led to accusations of hypocrisy and materialism. He argued that material wealth was not incompatible with spiritual growth. He expressed, "I don't believe in a spirituality that has no savor of life."

Rajneeshpuram: In the early 1980s, OSHO and his followers established a commune in Oregon, USA, named Rajneeshpuram. The commune became a focal point of controversy due to its rapid expansion, clashes with local communities, and legal issues. It escalated to criminal activities, including the largest bioterror attack in US history when some members poisoned salad bars with salmonella in an attempt to influence local elections.

Legal Issues and Deportation: OSHO faced several legal challenges in the US, including charges related to immigration fraud. In 1985, he was arrested and later deported. He returned to India, where he continued his teachings until his departure in 1990.

Conclusion

Despite the controversies, OSHO's teachings have endured and continue to attract followers worldwide. His ideas on meditation, personal freedom, and the synthesis of spiritual and material life resonate with many. His books and meditation techniques are widely available, and numerous OSHO centres exist globally, promoting his vision of a balanced, joyful life.

OSHO's philosophy was revolutionary and provocative, blending ancient wisdom with modern sensibilities. His life was a testament to the challenges of pushing societal boundaries and advocating for a liberated, mindful existence. While his methods and lifestyle sparked debates, his teachings on meditation, love, and personal freedom remain influential, offering a unique perspective on living a fulfilling life.

The Future Poetry: A Journey Towards Integral Yoga

Sri Aurobindo, a towering figure in Indian philosophy and spirituality, was a visionary who seamlessly integrated ancient spiritual wisdom with modern ideas. His profound insights into human consciousness, spirituality, and evolution have left an indelible mark on both Eastern and Western thought. Sri Aurobindo's spiritual vision, cantered on the concept of Integral Yoga, offers a transformative approach to life, aiming for the holistic development of the individual and the collective.

Early Life and Spiritual Awakening

Born on August 15, 1872, in Calcutta, India, Sri Aurobindo (originally named Aurobindo Ghose) was educated in England, where he excelled in classical studies and developed a deep understanding of Western philosophy and literature. Upon returning to India, he was drawn into the nationalist movement, advocating for India's independence from British rule. However, his spiritual experiences during his imprisonment in 1908 marked a turning point, leading him towards a deeper quest for spiritual realization.

A Scholar Editor and Writer

Before his full immersion into spirituality, Sri Aurobindo engaged actively in intellectual and political life. He took up editorship of several publications that played crucial roles in shaping public opinion and advancing the cause of Indian independence. Notably, he became the editor of the newspaper Bande Mataram, which was known for its fierce advocacy for India's freedom and resistance against British rule. His writings in Bande Mataram showcased his eloquence and deep understanding of political philosophy, earning him widespread recognition as a revolutionary thinker. Additionally, he contributed to other periodicals, using his editorial prowess to disseminate ideas that combined the quest for national liberation with the aspiration for spiritual and cultural renaissance.

Integral Yoga: The Core of His Philosophy

Sri Aurobindo’s Integral Yoga is a synthesis of various paths of yoga, aiming to harmonize the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of the human being. Unlike traditional forms of yoga that often emphasize transcendence from worldly life, Integral Yoga seeks to transform human nature and integrate it with the Divine consciousness.

1. Synthesis of Yogas: Sri Aurobindo believed that the different paths of yoga—Karma Yoga (yoga of action), Bhakti Yoga (yoga of devotion), Jnana Yoga (yoga of knowledge), and Hatha Yoga (yoga of physical discipline)—are not mutually exclusive but complementary. He proposed a comprehensive approach that includes all these elements to achieve a higher state of consciousness.
2. Evolution of Consciousness: A central theme in Sri Aurobindo’s teachings is the evolution of consciousness. He posited that human beings are not the final product of evolution but a transitional species. According to him, humanity is destined to evolve into a higher spiritual consciousness, which he called the Supramental consciousness. This Supramental consciousness represents a state where the limitations of the mind are transcended, and the individual becomes a direct instrument of the Divine will.
3. The Divine Life on Earth: Sri Aurobindo envisioned a future where spiritual consciousness would manifest in everyday life, creating a divine life on Earth. This vision is not about escaping the world but transforming it, making the physical plane an expression of the Divine reality. He emphasized that the spiritual transformation should encompass all aspects of life, including politics, economics, culture, and education.

The Role of the Mother

Mirra Alfassa, known as The Mother, was Sri Aurobindo's spiritual collaborator. She was not a disciple in that sense. A single consciousness took physical forms as two individuals with a single spiritual mission.

Together, they worked towards realizing the vision of a new humanity. The Mother played a crucial role in establishing the spiritual community at Auroville and guiding the practical implementation of Integral Yoga. Her teachings complement Sri Aurobindo’s, emphasizing the importance of surrender to the Divine and the transformation of consciousness. The Mother’s spiritual experiences and insights added depth to the practice of Integral Yoga, focusing on the receptive aspect of the Divine grace and the need for collective spiritual effort.

Practical Implications of Integral Yoga

1. Self-Discovery and Transformation: Integral Yoga encourages individuals to engage in self-reflection, inner discipline, and active participation in life’s challenges. It calls for a continual effort to purify the mind, heart, and body, aligning them with the higher spiritual principles. This process involves recognizing and overcoming the ego, desires, and attachments that hinder spiritual growth.
2. Collective Evolution: Sri Aurobindo’s vision extends beyond personal enlightenment to the collective evolution of society. He believed that the transformation of individual consciousness would lead to a new social order, characterized by unity, harmony, and spiritual progress. This collective evolution is seen as essential for the manifestation of the Supramental consciousness on Earth.
3. Education and Culture: Sri Aurobindo emphasized the role of education in shaping a spiritually aware society. His ideas on education, which focus on the development of the whole person—physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually—are implemented in schools inspired by his philosophy, such as the Sri Aurobindo International Centre of Education in Pondicherry. He advocated for an educational system that nurtures the innate potential of each individual, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a deep connection with the inner self.

 

Major Works: Savitri and Poems

Sri Aurobindo’s literary contributions are monumental, with Savitri standing out as his magnum opus. Savitri is an epic poem that transcends ordinary narrative to become a spiritual journey. It tells the story of Savitri, a woman whose intense love and devotion bring her husband, Satyavan, back from the clutches of death. This poem, spanning over 24,000 lines, encapsulates Sri Aurobindo’s spiritual vision and serves as a guide for seekers on the path of Integral Yoga.

Savitri is not just a literary masterpiece but also a profound exploration of human consciousness, the soul’s journey, and the transformative power of divine love. Through this epic, Sri Aurobindo presents the possibility of conquering death and transcending human limitations, emphasizing the eventual triumph of the Divine will.

In addition to Savitri, Sri Aurobindo’s poetry, such as "Who," "The Golden Light," and "A God’s Labour," reflects his deep spiritual insights. His poems often explore themes of divine grace, spiritual struggle, and the aspiration for higher consciousness, providing readers with glimpses into his spiritual experiences and realizations.

Insights from The Future Poetry

Sri Aurobindo's The Future Poetry is a seminal work that explores the spiritual potential of poetry and its role in human evolution. He believed that poetry could transcend mere artistic expression to become a medium for spiritual realization and transformation.

1. Poetry as a Vehicle of the Spirit: Sri Aurobindo saw poetry as a powerful tool for capturing the ineffable experiences of the soul. He wrote, "The poetry of the future will not only appeal to the mind and senses but will rise to express the deepest spiritual truths and the highest flights of the soul." This perspective highlights poetry's capacity to connect the human consciousness with the divine.
2. The Mantra of the Future: He introduced the concept of the "Mantra" in poetry, which he described as the "inevitable word, the supreme rhythm," capable of evoking spiritual experiences and transforming the reader's consciousness. Sri Aurobindo asserted, "The mantra is the word of the self-existent truth and power; it is that which being heard, being put into the heart and the memory, being put into the mind and into the life-force, becomes that which it expresses." This profound idea underscores the transformative power of spiritually charged language.
3. A New Aesthetic Vision: In The Future Poetry, Sri Aurobindo envisioned a new aesthetic where poetry would serve as a bridge between the finite and the infinite, the human and the divine. He believed that such poetry would not only reflect the spiritual awakening of the poet but also act as a catalyst for the reader's spiritual evolution.

 

Legacy and Influence

Sri Aurobindo’s legacy continues to inspire spiritual seekers and scholars worldwide. His major works, including The Life Divine, Savitri, The Synthesis of Yoga, Essays on the Gita, and The Future Poetry, offer deep philosophical insights and practical guidance for those seeking a higher purpose in life. The Life Divine explores the nature of reality and the ultimate destiny of humanity, while Savitri is an epic poem that encapsulates his spiritual vision through the story of human love and divine realization.

His vision has significantly influenced modern spiritual thought, bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and contemporary challenges. The spiritual community of Auroville, dedicated to human unity and spiritual development, stands as a living testament to his ideals. Auroville’s experimental township serves as a model for sustainable living, collective harmony, and spiritual progress.

Conclusion

Sri Aurobindo's spiritual vision, with its emphasis on Integral Yoga, offers a path toward personal transformation and collective evolution. His teachings remind us of the potential for divinity within each individual and the possibility of creating a world that reflects higher spiritual truths. In an age of rapid change and uncertainty, Sri Aurobindo’s insights provide a beacon of hope and a roadmap for spiritual progress, urging humanity to rise to its highest potential.