Nestled amidst 200 acres of land, roughly 35 kilometers from Cuttack in Odisha, lies Sri Aurobindo Srikshetra, Dalijoda. Often referred to as the "Auroville of Odisha," this spiritual center draws inspiration from the teachings of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother.
A Legacy of Integral Yoga
Founded in 1974, Sri Aurobindo Srikshetra carries the vision of Sri Babaji Maharaj, a prominent figure associated with the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Puducherry. Sri Aurobindo himself describes "An Asram means the house or houses of a Teacher or Master of spiritual philosophy in which he receives and lodges those who come to him for the teaching and practice. An Asram is not an association or a religious body or a monastery—it is only what has been indicated above and nothing more."
Here at Sri Aurobindo Srikshetra, Dalijoda, the focus is on practicing Sri Aurobindo's Integral Yoga, a path aiming for the complete transformation of the individual. This philosophy transcends religious boundaries and strives for a harmonious union of the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of life.
Serving the Community
Beyond its spiritual core, Sri Aurobindo Srikshetra actively serves the surrounding community. The Ashram runs a free school up to the 10th standard, offering education based on Sri Aurobindo's and the Mother's ideals of integral education. This system emphasizes holistic development, nurturing intellectual curiosity alongside moral values. Ashram also runs a health center within the campus.
The center also runs various self-sustaining initiatives. These include:
An agricultural department that cultivates paddy, pulses, vegetables, and fruits.
A nursery promoting horticulture.
Cottage industries provide income-generation opportunities for women in nearby villages. Products like incense sticks, sweets, and honey are produced here.
A well-maintained dairy.
A Spiritual Destination
Sri Aurobindo Srikshetra, Dalijoda, welcomes visitors seeking a spiritual retreat. The Ashram provides a serene atmosphere conducive to meditation, introspection, and spiritual growth. It is a place to learn about Sri Aurobindo's teachings and experience the transformative power of Integral Yoga.
Whether you are a local seeking educational opportunities or a visitor yearning for spiritual solace, Sri Aurobindo Srikshetra, Dalijoda, offers a unique experience that blends spiritual practice with social responsibility.