Jiddu or J Krishnamurti, a name that resonates with profound philosophical insights and revolutionary thoughts on education, is often considered one of the most influential philosophers of the 20th century. Despite his significant contributions, his life and work are not as widely known as they deserve to be. This article delves into the life, philosophy, and enduring legacy of J Krishnamurti, exploring his childhood, his solitude, his education, his adoption by Annie Besant, his decision to remain single, his establishment of schools, and his unique perspective on education and the human condition.
Early Life and Childhood of J. Krishnamurti
J Krishnamurti was born on May 11, 1895, in the small town of Madanapalle in Andhra Pradesh, India. His early life was marked by poverty and hardship. His father, Jiddu Narayaniah, worked as an official in the British colonial administration, and his mother, Sanjeevamma, was a devout Hindu. J Krishnamurti was a frail and sickly child, often lost in his own world. He had a difficult time with formal education and was considered mentally slow by his teachers. However, his life took a dramatic turn when he was discovered by C.W. Leadbeater, a prominent member of the Theosophical Society, who believed that J Krishnamurti was destined to be a great spiritual leader.
The Theosophical Society and Adoption by Annie Besant
In 1909, J Krishnamurti and his younger brother Nityananda were taken under the wing of Annie Besant, the president of the Theosophical Society. Besant and Leadbeater believed that J Krishnamurti was the “World Teacher” foretold in Theosophical prophecies. They adopted the brothers and brought them to England, where J Krishnamurti was groomed to fulfill this prophetic role. He was given an extensive education and exposed to Western culture and philosophy. Despite this, J Krishnamurti often felt isolated and struggled with the weight of the expectations placed upon him.
Solitude and Personal Reflection
J Krishnamurti’s life was characterized by long periods of solitude and introspection. He often retreated into nature, finding solace and inspiration in the natural world. This solitude allowed him to cultivate his thoughts and philosophies, free from external influences. It was during these periods of introspection that he began to question the teachings of the Theosophical Society and the role he was being forced into. In 1929, in a dramatic and unexpected move, J Krishnamurti disbanded the Order of the Star, an organization created to support his role as the World Teacher and declared that truth is a pathless land that cannot be approached through any organization, creed, or dogma.
Commitment to Solitude and Singleness
J Krishnamurti’s decision to remain single was deeply rooted in his philosophy of life. He believed that personal relationships, particularly romantic ones, often led to attachment and dependency, which could hinder one’s spiritual growth and self-understanding. By remaining single, J Krishnamurti sought to maintain his independence and avoid the distractions and emotional entanglements that could interfere with his mission. His solitary lifestyle allowed him to dedicate himself fully to his work and to the pursuit of truth.
Education and Philosophy
J Krishnamurti’s views on education were revolutionary and ahead of their time. He believed that the purpose of education was not merely to prepare individuals for a career but to help them understand the complexities of life and develop a holistic understanding of themselves and the world around them. He emphasized the importance of self-awareness, critical thinking, and the cultivation of a free and inquiring mind. To realize this vision, J Krishnamurti established several schools around the world, including in India, England, and the United States.
Establishment of Schools
J Krishnamurti’s commitment to education led to the establishment of schools in various parts of the world. In India, he founded the Rishi Valley School in Andhra Pradesh, the Rajghat Besant School in Varanasi, and the Valley School in Bangalore. In England, he established the Brockwood Park School, and in the United States, he founded the Oak Grove School in Ojai, California. These schools were designed to be centers of learning where students could explore their intellectual and creative potential in an environment that fostered inquiry, freedom, and respect for all life.
The locations of these schools were chosen for their natural beauty and tranquility, providing an ideal setting for reflection and learning. J Krishnamurti believed that being in close contact with nature was essential for a child’s development and well-being. The serene and picturesque environments of these schools were intended to inspire students and encourage a deep connection with the natural world.
Unique Perspective on Education
J Krishnamurti’s educational philosophy was centered on the idea that true education should help individuals understand the totality of life and their place within it. He argued that traditional education systems, with their emphasis on rote learning and conformity, stifled creativity and critical thinking. Instead, he advocated for an education that encouraged students to question, explore, and discover for themselves. He believed that education should help individuals develop a deep sense of self-awareness and an understanding of their own thoughts and emotions.
One of J Krishnamurti’s most significant contributions to education was his emphasis on the importance of relationship and communication. He believed that education should not be confined to the classroom but should encompass all aspects of life. Teachers and students should engage in open and honest dialogue, exploring fundamental questions about life, relationships, and society. This approach, J Krishnamurti argued, would help create a learning environment that fostered mutual respect, understanding, and genuine inquiry.
Advocacy for Meditation and Mindfulness
J Krishnamurti’s teachings often emphasized the importance of meditation and mindfulness as tools for self-discovery and inner transformation. He believed that by observing one’s thoughts and emotions without judgment, individuals could gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationship with the world. This practice of self-observation, or “choiceless awareness,” was central to J Krishnamurti’s philosophy and was incorporated into the educational programs of his schools.
The Symbolism of the Setting Sun
One of the most evocative images in J Krishnamurti’s teachings is that of the setting sun. He often spoke of watching the sunset as a meditative practice that could help individuals connect with the present moment and appreciate the beauty and impermanence of life. For J Krishnamurti, the setting sun symbolized the end of one day and the promise of a new beginning, a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the constant opportunity for renewal and transformation.
Paving the Way for Osho’s Spiritual Movement
J Krishnamurti’s influence extended beyond his own followers to other spiritual leaders, including Osho (Rajneesh), who emerged as a prominent figure in the decades following Krishnamurti’s rise. Osho admired Krishnamurti’s emphasis on individual freedom and inner transformation, often referencing his teachings in his own discourses. Despite differences in their approaches, both shared a common vision of liberating the human mind from societal constraints and fostering spiritual awakening. Krishnamurti’s pioneering ideas continue to inspire and guide seekers, laying the groundwork for subsequent spiritual movements like Osho’s.
Krishnamurti’s Influence in the United States and His Final Journey
In the United States, J Krishnamurti found a significant following and established deep connections. He frequently visited and lectured in the country, particularly in California. The Krishnamurti Foundation of America, based in Ojai, California, continues to preserve and disseminate his teachings. Ojai also hosts the Oak Grove School, one of the institutions founded by Krishnamurti, reflecting his commitment to holistic education.
J Krishnamurti passed away on February 17, 1986, in Ojai, California, at the age of 90. His death marked the end of an era, but his teachings continue to inspire and guide countless individuals in their quest for truth and self-understanding.
Legacy and Impact
J Krishnamurti’s teachings continue to inspire and influence people around the world. His writings and recorded talks cover a wide range of topics, from education and meditation to politics and human relationships. Despite his rejection of organized religion and traditional authority, J Krishnamurti’s message of self-awareness, inquiry, and inner freedom resonates with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
The schools he founded continue to operate, embodying his vision of education as a holistic and transformative process. These institutions serve as living examples of his educational philosophy, providing students with an environment that nurtures their intellectual, emotional, and spiritual development.
Conclusion
Jiddu Krishnamurti’s life and work offer a profound and unconventional perspective on education, philosophy, and the human condition. His emphasis on self-awareness, critical thinking, and the importance of understanding one’s own mind and emotions remains relevant in today’s fast-paced and complex world. J. Krishnamurti’s legacy is a testament to the enduring power of his ideas and the transformative potential of a life dedicated to the pursuit of truth and self-understanding. As we reflect on his contributions, we are reminded of the timeless wisdom of his teachings and the profound impact they continue to have on individuals and society as a whole.
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