Sri Aurobindo Ghose (1872–1950) began his public life as a vehement nationalist, advocating armed resistance, Swaraj, and religiously grounded activism his “spiritual nationalism” infused politics with dharma and divine purpose. He was a key leader of Bengal’s revolutionary awakening and editor of Bande Mataram, ultimately arrested in the Alipore Bomb case, trialed and acquitted events that cemented his status among India’s daring freedom fighters.

However, his imprisonment became a spiritual turning point. He experienced a profound awakening that shifted his focus from political struggle to spiritual evolution. Retreating to Pondicherry, he developed Integral Yoga, emphasizing the integration of action, devotion, and knowledge to facilitate higher consciousness on earth.

This philosophical transformation did not completely overshadow his patriotism. Instead, Aurobindo envisioned India’s independence as a vehicle for humanity’s spiritual renewal. His concept of spiritual nationalism transcended narrow political agendas championing a universal awakening rooted in India’s spiritual heritage.