1. What’s your name, where are you from and how long have you been a member of the TS?
My name is Vibhuti Goel, I am from India, got to know about the TS in 2005. After attending some meetings in Shankar Lodge, New Delhi, I became a member in 2007. So, I have been involved with the TS for almost 16 years now,
2. Are you active in your Lodge/Section and if so, what do you do?
I became active when I joined the TS, participating in lodge meetings and study groups, attended lectures, and coordinated events, as a member of Shankar Lodge (2005-2010). Along with study, I and a bunch of young theosophists made efforts to keep that place with cleaning, painting, gardening, maintaining the library etc. I also was involved with different arts and crafts related activities there, working simultaneously on Mind, Heart and Feeling. Now, as life demands, I occasionally attend the various online sessions and I try to be at the TS in Adyar at least once a year. I really want to give my creative services to the TS. I have worked for the Publishing House as a graphic designer a few times.
3. How did you first learn about Theosophy or come in contact with the Society?
From a very young age I read books by J. Krishnamurti. Dr. Ravi Ravindra at that time was my big inspiration for Theosophy. In his lectures he always mentions theosophical values and refers to its Mentors work and their quotes. Because of Ravindra’s publications, I began studying theosophical history. While attending sessions of the School of the Wisdom in Adyar I also learned many aspects of spiritual study.
4. What does Theosophy mean to you?
As I am an artist I see things in a pictorial way. For me Theosophy is a very Huge Vigorous Banyan Tree, that was planted by very Elevated Beings with the intension for the spiritual development of human beings in all aspects. All kinds of souls can nourish, develop and enhance beneath this tree and different branches or sub-branches, growing into many directions, while all are fed by that one root called “The Theosophical Society”
5. What is your favorite Theosophical book and why?
Books automatically came my way when I eagerly required them. My first book was Annie Besant’s ( and Bhagavan Das’s) English translation of the Bhagavad Gita. At The Feet Of The Master by J. Krishnamurti followed, as well as Truth, Beauty and Goodness by Radha Burnier. Those were my first theosophical books and along with them I read different books and articles related to spiritual exploration.
6. What in your opinion is the biggest challenge the TS is facing at the moment?
In my opinion the biggest challenge the TS is facing is a lack of connection between what typically the Masters conveyed and our youth. Therefore, what would be the best communication method between them be? It’s a big challenge as I have been observing. I don’t think that we should only use the currently available facilities through the means of what the internet offers us for example, but rather convert the value receivable, through different methods. I am a graphical-technical person myself, but I do not recommend using hi-tech facilities on campus. The campus’s peacefulness, serenity and potent energy are to be maintained and cherished. But then, how can the Master’s teachings be best transmitted? I would say, don’t pass on too much theory, too many academic lectures or recommended texts. Instead, and as a starter, supply easy readings and have light and basic talks delivered. I am of the opinion that when this takes place, many will get interested, eager to get involved in serious studies. Very importantly, I also vouch for open sessions for all generations, dynamic Q&A session, physical activities, teaching theosophical ideas about painting, games, music and nature.
7. Is there anything you would wish for the future of the Theosophical Movement?
My wish for the Theosophical Movement is to grow, working in all the colors of Theosophy as the Masters suggested. Reading Their Letters remind us of what they think of Theosophy and its vehicle’s future. Every limb of Theosophy requires attention in order to flourish. Nowadays as Theosophy is flourishing, I wish that its development becomes more meaningful, spreading out into all directions, fulfilling human spiritual development.
From the editor:
Opinions and ideas expressed in the mini-interviews are exclusively of those who are being interviewed. They don’t necessarily represent the ideas and opinions of the compilers of Theosophy Forward. The responses of the interviewees are not edited for content. Some contributors give short answers to the questions while others touch upon the subject more elaborately.