Old Monks

  Theosophical Society, Adyar: Unveiling the Global Epicenter of Esoteric Wisdom Nestled along the Bay of Bengal, the Theosophical Society Adyar stands as a beacon for seekers of hidden truths. This place isn't just a spot on the map in Chennai, India—it's the beating heart of a movement that blends old secrets with fresh questions. Founded on ideas of unity and discovery, it draws people from every corner of the globe to explore life's big mysteries. What makes Adyar so special? It's the official international headquarters of the Theosophical Society, a role it's held since 1882. Here, ancient wisdom meets modern minds, shaping how we think about spirituality today. Let's dive into its story, from humble beginnings to its lasting impact. The Genesis and Evolution of the International Headquarters Founding Vision and the Arrival in Adyar Henry Steel Olcott, Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, and William Quan Judge started the Theosophical Society in New York back ...

  Ramalinga Swamigal Popularly known as Vallalar, Ramalinga Swamigal or Ramalinga Adigal (1823–1874), was born in Marudhur, a village near Chidambaram. After his father’s death, his family moved to his brother’s house in Chennai. Despite having no formal education gained immense scholarship. Ramalinga emphasised the bonds of responsibility and compassion between living beings. He expressed the view that ‘those who lack compassion for suffering beings are hard-hearted, their wisdom clouded’.  He showed his compassion and mercy on all living beings, including plants. This he called jeevakarunya. He established the Samarasa Vedha Sanmarga Sangam in 1865, and it was renamed “Samarasa Suddha Sanmarga Satya Sanga”, which means “Society for Pure Truth in Universal Selfhood”. Ramalinga also established a free feeding house for everyone irrespective of caste, at Vadalur (1867), in the wake of a terrible famine in South India in 1866. His voluminous songs were compiled and published und...