Annie Besant in India

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About the Book Annie Besant (1847-1933) distinguished herself in England as a fierce social reformer and fighter for social justice. After reviewing H.P. Blavatsky's magnum opus, The Secret Doctrine, she rediscovered Theosophy and joined the Theosophical Society in May 1889. She first came to India in 1893 and made India her home, travelling the length and breath of the country and attracting thousands to her message of Brahmavidyā (Divine Wisdom).

This book focuses on Annie Besant's work in India and for India. It includes a description of her passage from England to India, her work for Indian education, her accomplishments as President of the Theosophical Society, and her introduction of J. Krishnamurti to the world as the vehicle of a new teaching to humanity. It also presents her inspiring vision for India, and her brave work towards Home Rule for India.

The Sanskrit word vajrasattva, 'diamond soul; was once applied to Annie Besant. She combined in her person dauntless determination with compassion for all those who suffer. She saw India as the spiritual Mother of the world and worked for its spiritual, social and political regeneration throughout her active life.

Introduction In July 1924, at the Queen's Hall in London, the Golden Jubilee of Annie Besant's public work was celebrated. C. Jinarajadāsa, who was the time in Adyar, Madras, India, quoted from a telegram he received concerning the occasion which said: 'I am amazed... this is no narrow Jubilee; it is the history of the past fifty years.' A number of her former colleagues were there, including the MP George Lansbury.

From the Irish struggle to Home Rule for India, from fiercely fighting social injustice and inequality in England to tackling child marriage in India, from exposing the hypocrisy of the upper classes in London towards the appalling poverty of its East End, from becoming Madame Blavatsky's successor (according to Blavatsky's own words) to being elected President of the Theosophical Society (TS) and an open target for malice and unending misrepresentation, even to this day, Annie Besant made history.

**Contents and Sample Pages**