‘I came to India for Sri Aurobindo. His teachings are still very important to me. Meanwhile I saw there was a lot to do here. I just decided to go ahead and do it...’ ~ Ivar Initiator and driving force It all started with Ivar. Ivar Jenten (1947) first traveled to India in 1975 to join the Auroville project, a universal city-in-the-making. Auroville, named in homage to Sri Aurobindo—a renowned freedom fighter, philosopher, yogi and guru— was founded with the purpose of realizing human unity in diversity. Although Ivar came to Auroville inspired by Sri Aurobindo’s teachings, he was deeply moved by the poverty and struggles of the socially marginalized Dalit communities living around Auroville. Dalit, a term used for ‘untouchables’ and outcasts, refers to those occupying the lowest rung of India’s caste system. With limited resources and immense dedication, Ivar began by setting up several night schools in the Dalit colonies surrounding Auroville. In 1979, he established the first primary school, Isai Ambalam, for local children—a school that continues to function to this day. Working closely with the local communities, Ivar became aware of their daily challenges, including unemployment, alcohol abuse, and the oppression of women. Determined to make a difference, he launched a knitting business that still employs hundreds of women. He also established over a dozen night schools and community centers in the region. In 2002, Ivar founded Isai Maiyam. Initially, its primary focus was to provide a home for children without parental care. However, the Trust has since evolved into a multifaceted organization. At present there is a village Art School that welcomes dozens of children every weekend for lessons in music, dance, computers, and English. And a daycare center for children and youn adults with disabilities a that supports around 50 people daily. Furthermore, every child who has been under Isai Maiyam’s care continues to receive financial and emotional support for their further studies and into adulthood. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ivar and his partner in work, Brigitte, founded a unit under Auroville’s Auromitra Trust: Isai Ragam. Isai Ragam promotes educational community centers in the villages surrounding Auroville. Since its inception in 2021, Isai Ragam has established eight vibrant centers that provide afterschool and weekend activities for children aged 6 to 18. These centers aim to enhance children’s cognitive skills while also teaching music and dance. Ivar is known for his great sense of humor. He has a strong bond with the children and loves to joke around with them. Since 1975, Ivar has moved between India and the Netherlands, finally settling in India about 20 years ago. He lives with an Indian family and, in return, supports the education of their daughters. Ivar remains actively involved in all projects. He dedicates his entire Dutch state pension to Isai Ragam and supporting the Dalit ommunity. 10
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