Sri Aurobindo for All Ages

Foreword

There are biographies and biographies: each one has its particular value, its particular viewpoint. This new biography stands apart from all other books on Sri Aurobindo's life, its first distinctive feature being that it is written for the young generation, for whom it was a long-felt need. And its other special value lies in the fact that it is written by a disciple who had the great privilege of serving Sri Aurobindo for twelve years as his literary secretary and, before this, of carrying on a long correspondence with him. During the years 1938— 1950 Sri Aurobindo's attendants used to speak with him on various general topics, and many interesting anecdotes and experiences culled from both the talks and the letters give a unique flavour, an intimate feel to this book. It is sprinkled throughout with humour and personal touches which bring to the reader a very living contact.

The author had originally made a draft; he gave it to a close friend of his, Ashit Gupta, who was a professor of English in the Centre of Education, to rewrite it in his practised English style. Ashit Gupta took up the work very gladly even though he was suffering from a debilitating illness. Day after day, for nearly fourteen months, he took infinite trouble, carried out an exhaustive research of all available facts and rewrote the entire book, making it a true piece of art. But unfortunately he passed away before he could give the finishing touch to the last two chapters.

The book is written in a simple yet noble style; it preserves the intention of the author, that of a personal narration which gives it a special charm.

This is why the book claims distinction from the other biographies of Sri Aurobindo, often more scholarly and less intimate.

17.11.1989