Partner Stories 2026

The Matrimandir and I

Webseries and Feature Film

“They described it as a moment of reconnection.”

A long-term Aurovilian, in the community for decades, hesitated before filming. They had never spoken publicly about their relationship with the Matrimandir. As the interview unfolded, what emerged was a deeply personal and honest reflection, one that moved from uncertainty into clarity. Afterwards they said the process had let them put into words something they had felt for years. Several participants have echoed this, and audiences say hearing so many voices has helped them feel more connected to the Matrimandir. Some have called the films “meditative” and “deeply human.”

What would help nextGrant guidance for post-production, subtitling and archiving, and introductions to cultural, media and educational partners.

Aikiyam School

“The successful completion of the student windmill project after three years of continuous effort.”

After three years of continuous effort, students completed their windmill project. They worked closely with teachers and vocational instructors to design and build the model, learning how renewable energy systems work while growing in confidence, perseverance, teamwork and problem-solving. Then came another milestone: the school’s very first CBSE batch achieved a 100% Board Examination result, with several students securing top ranks. Parents, visitors and the wider community turned out to see the students’ work at exhibitions and presentations.

What would help nextMicroscopes, digital classrooms, and STEM and robotics learning.

The Mother’s Flower Garden

Just before sunrise, the flowers still carry the coolness of the night and the first light touches the pathways. This year more than 5,000 visitors walked through the garden, some searching for peace, some for beauty, some simply curious. Before the February celebrations, children from nearby schools came to sow seeds. A few days later many returned, running down the paths asking, “Has my plant grown?” Some sat quietly beside the plants they had nurtured; others watered them with great care.

What would help nextSustained care for the gardens and their infrastructure.

Sadhana Forest

“There is a quiet depth and presence in this work that we feel immediately.”

Sadhana Forest is transforming 70 acres of eroded land into a thriving forest through community collaboration and water conservation. Volunteers arrive from all over the world to plant and care for it. This year, fellow AVI USA partner Savitri Art Offerings sent founders Yorit and Aviram a painting called “Blissful Offering.” It now hangs in the Main Hut, “with much appreciation and gratitude.” Hear the volunteers in their own words in a film made by one of them, or read Condé Nast Traveler’s guide to Auroville.

What would help nextIntroductions to potential donors for House of Seva, their next project, and for other activities.

Aurokiya

“This simple intervention not only corrected her vision but also transformed her overall learning experience.”

During a routine school eye screening, Aurokiya found a 10-year-old girl who couldn’t see the blackboard. She had been struggling silently in class, unable to follow lessons and slowly losing interest in her studies. Her teachers had noticed she seemed distracted. A detailed exam found a refractive error, and she was given the right spectacles. Within a short time she was attentive, participating actively and improving markedly. Her teachers say she is more confident and engaged. One simple intervention transformed her whole experience of learning.

What would help nextSharing Aurokiya’s work with new audiences and visiting groups.

YouthLink

“It was the feeling of togetherness that made this space so special.”

Bringing more young people into Auroville was a priority this year, and three new members joined the team through the “Idea Kitchen” initiative. With around 63% of surveyed youth leaving Auroville or seeking work outside it, YouthLink keeps making spaces where young people feel part of something meaningful. The “Auroville’s Got Talent” series has brought together more than 150 participants and audience members, as organizers, performers and volunteers. Those shared experiences, the team says, build belonging, confidence and hope in uncertain times.

What would help nextExposure beyond Auroville, and partnerships for international volunteer programs with young people from the USA and Canada.

Pazhamudir Cholai Farm

When heavy rain and a storm hit Auroville, the farm lost many banana and fruit trees, and the cow shed and fencing were damaged. One family who regularly depend on the farm for fresh produce stayed connected through it all. Siblings came together to help restore the farm and keep sustainable farming going. Their young children have become more aware of where their food comes from, and curious about the crops, the animals and natural farming. The farm is not only a place of food production but a space for community well-being.

What would help nextFarm restoration, water conservation, and orchard recovery.

Mohanam Kindergarten

“Today, he calls out names, plays joyfully with other children, and is present in the moment.”

One young Tamil child, who had lost his twin in infancy, arrived at Mohanam walking with his head down, speaking softly to himself and unable to connect with the children around him. With time, patience and a nurturing environment, something began to shift. Slowly he started to look up, to notice others, to respond. His first words, his first attempts to say what he needed, and eventually his first friendships were small but powerful milestones. Today he calls out names and plays joyfully with other children.

What would help nextFair allowances for contributors, and steady running costs.