George S. Arundale
Early years and education
George Sydney Arundale was born on December 1, 1878 in Surrey, England. His mother died at childbirth, and George was adopted by his aunt, Francesca Arundale. Miss Arundale joined the Theosophical Society in 1881 and often welcomed Madame H. P. Blavatsky to her home.
Young George attended schools in in Germany and in England, and in 1900 he was graduated from St John’s College, Cambridge.
Career as educator
Two years later, at Dr Besant’s invitation, he went to India with his aunt to become Professor of History at the Central Hindu College, Benares (now Varanasi). In 1907 he was appointed Headmaster of the Central Hindu College School, and later Principal of the College. He was very popular with both teachers and students, for he had a great understanding of youth. [1]
Marriage
The Arundales in London
Rukmini Devi gave an account of travel to England:
Dr. Arundale had a wide circle of friends in London. His father was a famous architect. I was told that he was invited by the Shah of Oman to renovate his Palace, since at that time, he was considered the best person to do it. The family was well known and they had many friends among the aristocracy and famous artists. Dr. Arundale himself was very popular. We stayed in the hosue of the COuntess De la Warr and there were always people coming and going, gaden parties, outings and shipping trips... Mr. Arundale took me to so many concerts and dances, we visited all the museums and art galleries and even among his friends, there were many great artists and painters. He used to play the piano very well, he could also compose music. He wanted me to see everything that the loved and appreciated in Western art.[2]
Liberal Catholic Church
Theosophical work
Social activism
Writings
Later years
Rukmini wrote of his decline:
From 1942 onwards Dr. Arundale's health had been slowly deteriorating. He was such an uncomplaining, cheerful person that I never knew how seriously ill he was. he was highely diabetic but because of his principles would not take medicines which were produced by killing animals. I would pester him to come with me on my dance tours never realizing what a great effort he was making to please me. He passed away in 1945. Till the last moment I was so sure that he would be cured. He had always been there to take care of things but he was also preparing me in many ways - I can see it now - to stand on my own.[3]
Mrs. Arundale traveled to Haridwar and Rishikesh to immerse his ashes.[4]
Notes
- ↑ "George Sydney Arundale (1878 - 1945)," Theosophical Society, Adyar Web page. [1]
- ↑ Rukmini Devi Arundale, "Rukmini on Herself," Rukmini Devi Arundale: Birth Centenary Commemorative Volume, Shakuntala Ramani, ed., (Chennai, India: The Kalakshetra Foundation, 2003), 26.
- ↑ Rukmini Devi Arundale, "Rukmini on Herself," Rukmini Devi Arundale: Birth Centenary Commemorative Volume, Shakuntala Ramani, ed., (Chennai, India: The Kalakshetra Foundation, 2003), 64.
- ↑ Ibid., 64