Kailas Jhaveri
| Kailas Jhaveri | |
|---|---|
 Kailas-photo.jpeg | |
| Born | Jhaveri |
| 🏳️ Nationality | Indian |
| 💼 Occupation | Mother Disciple |
Biography
Early years in India
Kailas Jhaveri, born on 11 June 1926 in Surat, grew up in a conservative Jain family. Her spiritual quest led her to Sri Aurobindo's teachings during college, and she felt a profound connection with his works. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in a remarkably short time and pursued a Master's degree in Philosophy. Eager to meet Sri Aurobindo, she sought permission for his Darshan but was disappointed to learn of his passing. Seeking solace, she encountered the Mother in Pondicherry, and an unspoken bond was formed.
Move to the United States
Despite completing her studies, Kailas felt an undeniable pull towards the United States. Undeterred by discouragement from her relatives, she embarked on a journey to America in 1954. There, she secured a job at the United Nations and decided to focus on International Relations instead of Psychology. During her stay, she not only attended the UN's anniversary celebration but also developed a close friendship with the renowned sitar maestro, Pandit Ravi Shankar. She even organized a successful soiree for him at her residence.
Deeply committed to the concept of human unity, Kailas felt a strong connection to her work at the United Nations, considering it akin to serving in a temple of human unity. However, her faith in the UN's ability to achieve its goals was shaken when Egypt and Hungary were invaded by the Anglo-French and Soviet Russian troops, respectively, in 1956. She realized that the pursuit of a Ph.D. would not align with her life's purpose, which was centered around fostering human unity. Thus, she decided to explore the spiritual path and underwent secretarial training.
In 1956, Kailas made the difficult decision to divorce her husband, Madhubhai Damania, who had been supportive of her academic pursuits. She subsequently worked as an assistant to the Foreign Minister of Nepal and secured a job with the Indian Delegation to the United Nations during the General Assembly session. Later, she joined the literary section of the American Baptist Convention.
In 1960, Kailas found her way to Broadcast Music Incorporated (BMI), where she served as an assistant-cum-secretary to Oliver Daniel, the Director of contemporary classical music. Her work at BMI allowed her to attend prominent orchestras worldwide and kindled her interest in Western classical music. Additionally, she became a member of various organizations like The Asia Foundation, American Friends' Service Committee, and The Foreign Policy Association. She actively participated in seminars, advocating for Egypt during one focused on the Anglo-French invasion of Egypt for the Suez Canal.
Throughout her life in New York, Kailas's inner world flourished, with the Mother at the center of her being. She often sent gifts and offerings to the Mother in Pondicherry, cherishing the intimate connection they shared. Her spiritual experiences deepened, leading her to acquire unique abilities like thought-reading and granting wishes to others.
Move to the Shri Aurobindo Ashram
Despite her success in the U.S.A., Kailas's yearning to be with Sri Aurobindo and the Mother in Pondicherry intensified. In 1964, she received the Mother's silent permission to visit the Ashram, and her heart was filled with a profound sense of devotion and purpose. She journeyed to Pondicherry, where she was warmly welcomed by her family members and introduced to other Ashramites.
Kailas's life in the Ashram was filled with profound learning and inner transformation. She engaged in various activities and found spiritual fulfillment in embroidery and painting. The Mother's constant guidance and love supported her through life's challenges.
Through her journey, Kailas discovered the true meaning of surrender and integral perfection. Her unwavering faith in the Divine guided her every step. Her life became an unwritten story of love, devotion, and service, all centered around the ideal of human unity and her connection with the Divine.
Kailas sailed for the United States of America on 18th February 1954 in the British passenger ship "Canton" and reached New York on 29th March.
However, her longing to meet the Mother in Pondicherry intensified. In 1964, she decided to visit the Ashram, leaving behind her life in America. The Mother welcomed her warmly, and Kailas became an integral part of the Ashram community. She engaged in various activities, including working for Auroville's creation under UNESCO. Kailas's spiritual communion with the Mother deepened through flowers, and she expressed her aspiration for purity and surrender through them.
Kailas's dedication to her spiritual path was evident in her work for the Ashram, making compilations, and contributing to Auroville's foundation. Despite facing criticism and challenges, she remained firm in her devotion to the Divine's will. The Mother's guidance and blessings continuously supported her throughout her journey.
Kailas Jhaveri passed away on 13 January 2007, leaving behind a legacy of selfless service, spiritual devotion, and unwavering faith in Sri Aurobindo and the Mother's vision for human unity.
Bibliography
- (2016) His Miracle-Breath - Vidagdha Bennett <ref>{{cite book|url=https://www.google.fr/books/edition/His_Miracle_Breath/16_oCwAAQBAJ?hl=fr&gbpv=1&dq=kailas+jhaveri&pg=PT19&printsec=frontcover
- (2004) I Am With You - Kailas Jhaveri
