II

SRI AUROBINDO ASHRAM DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Founded in May 1945, the Sri Aurobindo Ashram Depart-

ment of Physical Education organises the physical education pro-

gramme for the students and teachers of the Centre of Education

and for the members of the Ashram. Its activities are coordinated

and supervised by a group of instructors called captains, who

give training in athletics (track and field events), aquatics, gym-

nastics, games, combative sports and asanas. The yearly sched-

ule is divided into four seasons: during the first three, there is

a period of training followed by competitions; at the end of the

year, participants prepare an annual demonstration of physical

culture which is presented on December 2nd at the Ashram

sportsground. Facilities of the department include a library, gym-

nasium, playground, sportsground, swimming pool, judo hall and

tennis courts.

The Mother took active interest in the development of the

Physical Education Department and helped to shape its pro-

gramme. For years she spent her late afternoon and evening

hours with those who took part in the various physical activities.  

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