Matrimandir- Symbol of peace

Matrimandir, which is the Sanskrit word for 'Temple of The Mother', is the most important edifice of the Auroville township in Pondicherry. Located just in the middle of Auroville in a large open area known as 'Peace', Matrimandir is fondly known as the 'soul of the city' and holds crucial spiritual significance for those who practice Integral Yoga. At the same time, it is also a place for individual silent concentration...

The idea of the Matrimandir was initiated by The Mother of the Shri Aurobindo Ashram. According to the teachings of Sri Aurobindo, the concept of the 'Mother' represents the 'great evolutionary, conscious and intelligent principle of Life', that is the Universal Mother aims to help humankind to move ahead of its present limitations onto the next stage of its evolutionary adventure, which is the supramental consciousness.

Matrimandir is a place for acquiring peace and meditation and belongs to no particular religion or sect. People from all around the world come to Auroville to lead a life without any discrimination by caste, religion, colour or socio-economic status, with the sole purpose of realising human unity. Matrimandir is no tourist place, and the entry inside the central premises of the building is allowed only to those who have a brief understanding of the idea of Auroville township. However, the beautiful gold dome structure of the Matrimandir, which is surrounded by twelve lush green gardens, attracts the tourists visiting Pondicherry. A viewpoint has been constructed to the south of the building which offers a panoramic view of the Matrimandir and its surroundings. The viewpoint is just 10 minutes' walk away from the Visitor's Centre...