Cosmopolitan collectives

“Auroville wants to be a universal town where men and women of all countries are able to live in peace and progressive harmony above all creeds, all politics and all nationalities. The purpose of Auroville is to realize human unity”.
Since its separation from Sri Aurobindo’s ashram in Pondicherry in 1988, Auroville has enjoyed a special status granted by the federal government (including specific visas for foreigners): the Auroville Foundation is led by a Governing Board appointed by New Delhi, whilst community governance is the responsibility of the Residents’ Assembly.
Auroville is famous for its water management and the eco-restoration projects, as well as for its spiritual experimentation following the teachings of Sri Aurobindo (integral yoga).

At the heart of Punpun Organic Farm’s mission are several principles and types of activities which aim at restoring a deep connection to the earth, particularly through the collection and preservation of native seeds and the protection of agricultural biodiversity. This initiative also aims to regain control over basic human needs—such as growing one’s own food and building one’s home with natural materials—thereby reducing dependence on the industrial economy and money. Punpun is also a learning center offering training in organic farming and construction using natural materials, particularly earth.