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Celebrating Auroville Culture and Community at Mohanam
On Valentine’s Day, AVI USA hosted a special lunch at Mohanam for our partners, led by Matthew Andrews, Executive Director, and Binah Thillairajah, Director of Development. It was a day full of music, heritage, and connection—a celebration that reminded us of the depth and beauty of Tamil culture and the power of coming together.
A Stunning Beginning: The Kalari Performance
The event began with a mesmerizing performance by the Kalari performers. Their strength, grace, and extraordinary talents immediately captured everyone’s attention, setting a tone of wonder and admiration.
“Their performance was breathtaking—full of strength, beauty, and joy.”
Tamil Heritage in Song: Raman and Meenakshi
Raman and Meenakshi then took the stage, bringing the history of this land to life. Raman reminded us that before Auroville, these lands had Tamil names—names that carry stories, meaning, and identity.
Together, they shared songs referencing local siddhas and traditional stories, weaving playfulness, reverence, and joy into their performance. The audience was deeply moved, experiencing a rare connection to the past and present of Tamil heritage.
Sharing Knowledge: Meenakshi’s New Book
Meenakshi introduced her new book, highlighting her ongoing work translating and making Tamil cultural knowledge accessible to local communities. She noted that while these traditions are widely celebrated across Tamil Nadu, few in Auroville are aware of them, making this sharing all the more significant.
“Her dedication to preserving and sharing Tamil heritage is inspiring.”
Connections and Collaboration
It was also a day of meaningful reconnections. Anand Reddy, Deepshikha, and Shruti from Sarkar—an institute focused on learning and cultural exchange—were excited to explore potential collaborations with Meenakshi. Such encounters hint at a promising synergy, amplifying local relevance and cultural preservation.
The Beauty of Mohanam
The setting at Mohanam itself added to the magic. Kolams decorated every corner, fresh flowers adorned the spaces, and a lovingly prepared traditional lunch delighted everyone. As an AVI USA-led partner lunch, Matthew Andrews and Binah Thillairajah encouraged attendees to meet new people, fostering introductions and connections that made the day as much about community as culture. Many attendees were visiting Mohanam for the first time, and it was heartening to see how such celebrations can broaden awareness and forge bonds.
A Day to Remember
Ultimately, the AVI USA partner lunch at Mohanam was a reminder of why these gatherings matter. They honor heritage, celebrate creativity, and create space for people to come together—sharing stories, laughter, and inspiration. It was a day of love, joy, and companionship, leaving everyone with a renewed sense of connection to each other and to the rich cultural tapestry of this land.