ACROPOLIS

quarterly

VOL 3: JULY SEPTEMBER 2013 www.acropolis.org.in Schedule of Public Events Inside

message from Director

Dear Reader, On July 15th, the International Organization New Acropolis (IONA) is celebrating 56 years since incoporation. Founded in Argentina by Prof. Jorge Angel Livraga Rizzi, IONA is now spread around the world, in over 60 countries, having thousands of active members. Its three founding principles are: 1. To promote an ideal of universal fraternity, based on respect for human dignity, beyond racial, sexual, cultural, religious, social and other differences. 2. To encourage love for wisdom, which, through the comparative study of philosophies, religions, sciences and arts, promotes the knowledge of the universe, nature and the human being. 3. To develop the best of our human potential, by promoting our full realization as individuals, and our integration in nature and society, not as mere spectators, but as active participants in a world that needs to be improved. Our work results in better individuals who bring sustainability to social development. By following these three principles through an active study of philosophy, culture and volunteering, our vision can be simplified here, as making our world a better place to live in. With this vision in mind we can also say clearly that at 56 years, IONA is still very young and our world requires much patience and hard work in order to change in the right direction. It requires a real idealistic
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approach, beyond personal gain of receiving immediate fruits of action, to endure the strong influence of a materialistic world, while sowing in its soil healthy seeds for the future. Can philosophy make the world a better place? Yes, if we understand the true nature of philosophy; an active way of life, not intellectualism. Our world requires loving hearts and working hands much more than words. But our actions must follow the voice of reason; guided by intelligence and the path towards wisdom. Indeed, philosophy can change the world if we only follow the advice of Gandhiji, calling us to BE the change we want to see in the world. First we have to learn to SEE what change is needed, recognize our true potential, what is ethical and right. Then we need to FOLLOW, which always requires from us the ability to change. This is active philosophy, a way of life; we can only give what we have, and so we can make the world better, not by shouting loudly how wrong things are, but by making ourselves better. You are invited to visit us this summer, to celebrate with us IONAs anniversary, by joining us for one of our many activities and maybe, just maybe, you will also find a shining spark of an idealone that aims to change the world, that might change you as well. Sincerely, Yaron Barzilay National Director, New Acropolis India (North)

Table of Content
4 a  rticle: The Power of Symbols public events 12 Jul 13: Lecture Politics and Ancient Society 13  Jul 14: Performance Encounter with a Mystic Minstrel 14  Jul 27: Lecture Karma, Destiny, and Free Will 15  Aug 10: Lecture Unmasking the Mysterious World of Masks 16  Aug 24: Lecture Patterns in Nature 17  Sep 7: Lecture Looking into the Heavens 18  Sep 19: Open House Introductory Lecture 19  Sep 26: New Course World of Wisdom 20 Sep 28: Lecture: Lighting the Spark Within Symbolism of Fire 21 food for thought 22 wise men of the past 27 testimonials 28 sufi story 32  news from na mumbai
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Publisher: New Acropolis Cultural Organization National Director: Yaron Barzilay Public Relations Manager: Harianto H Mehta Design: Art Department, NA Printed By: Nensey Offset Pvt. Ltd. For Advertising Opportunity Contact +91 22 3192 0515 New Acropolis Cultural Organization is an Indian Non-Profit Sec. 25 Company (Registration No: U92412MH2010NPL200490) filed with the Registrar of Companies. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form without the explicit prior permission of the publishers in writing. For feedback and suggestions, please write to us at info@acropolis.org.in

ARTICLE

The Power of Symbols

Alex Warren

Symbols hold a powerful attraction for people. Even today, in an age in which materialistic perspectives rule human thought, many ancient symbols such as the ankh, the yin/yang, American Indian designs, pyramids, and many other symbols are quite popular in jewelry and in the home. Why do symbols of the ancient civilizations continue to be an integral part our society, even to the point that corporations use them in commercials, movies, logos, in television documentaries, etc.? This article focuses on sacred symbols, symbols which contain and represent something metaphysical, and mentions some of the reasons that symbols hold so much fascination. Symbology, the study of symbols, sounds like a very complicated subject, but interestingly enough, you already have some knowledge about it, and maybe a little intuition, because, as alluded to above, you are surrounded by, use and wear symbols every day. The word symbol means something which contains something else. A symbol transmits something, a symbol reflects something, and it has been said that the best type of symbol is the symbol which transmits most purely that which it is reflecting and keeps almost nothing for itself.
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There is a very interesting idea that is fundamental to understanding symbolism, symbology or symbols themselves, and that is that everything that you see in the material world has a counterpart in the invisible world. This is not a new theory. This concept was present in all the ancient civilizations. The Western philosopher who most explicitly described this and laid this out was the great philosopher Plato. Plato lived in Ancient Greece in the 4th and 5th centuries B.C.E. One of the landmark moments in Western Civilization is the infamous and unfortunate death of Socrates in 399 B.C.E. Socrates was Platos master, and after Socrates execution Plato promised to dedicate himself to expanding the philosophy that Socrates taught. Plato spoke of something called Archetypes. The concept of the archetypes is also sometimes called forms, which is a poor translation of the Greek, or Ideas, a much better translation. And this concept says that the archetypes or ideas are beyond the material world that we see, touch, smell, taste and hear. Anything around you on this earth is the reflection of the idea of that thing. For example, when you see a sphere, that is the manifestation of the idea of the sphere. Have you ever seen a perfect equilateral triangle? or a perfect square? or a perfect circle? No, you havent, because they cant be created in the manifested world. No matter what perfect circle or perfect equilateral triangle or perfect square or perfect line or perfect rectangle you show me, we can find an imperfection. No matter how perfect you make it, there will always
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Image courtesy: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Edfu21.JPG

be some imperfection. Perfect geometrical figures do not exist in this world. The ideas of these geometrical figures exist, but not the physical objects. The mathematical description of the equilateral triangle is real. The mathematical description of the perfect circle exists. The idea exists, but the incarnation of that idea is imperfect in this world. This concept of an idea incarnated is the basis for the understanding of what a symbol is. A symbol is metaphysical. It goes beyond the physical realm. If you observe the Universe, you will realize that the whole Universe is a symbol. There is incredible Beauty in the Universe, and when you start to examine it, and try to understand it, then you will realize that it is a symbol of Something beyond. One of the first things that you have to do if you want to understand symbols, is you have to get out this world even if only a little. You have to ascend a little,
Image courtesy: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3AHoris_838.jpg

just like if you want to see what surrounds you, you climb a tree or a pyramid or a mountain so you can see further. If you are stuck in your own cultural perspective, in other words, if the only perspective you are able to perceive is your own, which was shaped by the society, the culture, the religion or politics in which you were raised, then everything is always going to look foreign. You are not going to be able to see symbols or understand symbols, you are just going to see foreign looking things. So one of the first things we have to do is to try to understand sincerely and that requires us to go a little higher, and take a little bit higher perspective, a little more subtle understanding, a little more in-depth understanding. In order to get a little better glimpse of this lost science known as symbology, lets take as an example a symbol which is quite popular these days: the Ankh. By any chance, are you wearing one right now? It looks like a circle or an oval sitting on top of a capital T. Why is the Ankh a perennial favorite in jewelry, etc.? It is interesting is that the Ankh, which hasnt had a living religion associated with it for a couple of thousand years, is so popular today. The ankh is from Ancient Egypt. In the temples of the Ancient Egyptians, it is found in the hands of the Gods. It signifies Eternal Life. It is called the Key of Life, and is the key to the Mysteries of Nature. It is used to open doors between the visible and the invisible worlds. As it regards the individual human being, this refers to the difference between physical existence and spiritual existence. The ancients believed that everything has a soul. Plants, animals, even stars have souls, very great souls. The soul of a chicken is obviously not the same as the soul of a human (although the behavior of some humans these days does make you wonder sometimes).
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According to the Ancient Egyptians, the purpose of life is Spiritual Evolution. Incarnation is a learning process, a big classroom. The ankh represents the opening of the door between physical life and spiritual life. However, entering that world requires purification and education: purification to get rid of false attitudes and misunderstandings that prevent us from realizing our full potential, and education to bring out the virtues and gifts that are latent. Thus you are a symbol, you are a symbol of your own Spirit. Finally, we can analyze the composition of the ankh, although we will probably miss something important, just like a chemical analysis of the human body wouldnt tell us much about the person which inhabits it. The ankh is a combination of two symbols, a circle, and a the T or Tau cross. The circle represents perfection, the spiritual world or Eternity. The cross represents Spirit incarnated or the Manifested World. Its the combination of the vertical line and the horizontal line. The horizontal line is yin. Yin is the place where life can take place. The vertical line is Yang, like a Solar Ray coming down. In order to have life you have to have those two things, you have to have a womb, Mother Earth, where life can take place and you have to have an impulse of life. The horizontal line is like the surface of the sea and the vertical line is like a lightening bolt. These two combine to form the cross, or in the case of the ankh, the Tau, on which the circle sits. Technically the fact that the ankh is the combination of two sacred symbols that makes it an emblem.
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To study the language of the symbols is to learn about Nature, to learn about the laws which rule the Universe. The ankh is one of many, many symbols which were meant to instruct and to assist the spiritual evolution of the human being, or to record some historical lesson for educational purposes. In addition to these, there are unique symbols and emblems which represent schools of thought or religions. The hieroglyphs and ideograms of all ancient civilizations are also symbols. Nature is also full of symbols. A flower, the geometric patterns in the veins of a leaf, the markings on an animal or insect, the constellations in the nighttime sky; all these are symbols. How about your dreams, your aspirations and the work you do throughout a lifetime, might not these also be symbols? They are. We live in a world of symbols. Can sacred symbols help us? Yes, they can remind us of our invisible part. They can remind us that we have an immortal soul. And in many cases, if they are rendered beautifully, they can inspire us. But wisdom is far more powerful than any symbol or amulet. Wisdom is the real ankh, the key to the invisible dimensions, the key that unlocks so many doors. The best way to learn the secrets of the symbols is to follow that ancient Greek recommendation, Know Thyself which is equivalent to learning the secret behind one of the greatest symbols of all: the Human Being, Symbol of the Immortal Soul and Symbol of the Universe.
The author, Mr. Alex Warren, is the National Director of New Acropolis USASouth East. Bibliography: The Secret Doctrine, Helena P. Blavatsky \ Symbology Manual, Dr. Jorge A. Livraga \ Thebes, Dr. Jorge A. Livraga \ The Republic, Plato

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Schedule of Public Events Jul Sep 2013

Mask making Workshop

Jul 13: Saturday 6 pm [2 hrs], FREE ADMISSION Lecture New Acropolis Centre, Mumbai

Politics and Ancient Society

What role should politics play in Society? What is Law and Governance? Uncover how ancient cultures organized themselves to drive the progress of society and the citizen. Through the eyes of philosophers, and their teachings, discover what politics could mean to each one of us, in our lives! Understand the ideals of society and politics, and the meaning of a better world!

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Jul 14: Sunday 11:00 am [1.5hrs], FREE ADMISSION Performance & Discussion New Acropolis Centre, Mumbai

Encounter with Lakshman Das Baul - A Mystic Minstrel

In collaboration with the Kabir Community of Mumbai, we invite Lakshman Da of the mystical Baul tradition to share with us through song and philosophy, an alternative way of life. The Bauls famously reject the traditional social norms to form a distinct sect that upholds music as their religion. Through their unique musical genre, their philosophical lyrics contemplate the state of disconnect between the earthly soul and the spiritual world. Often they reflect on mystical love, subtly revealing the mystery of life, the laws of nature, the decree of destiny and the ultimate union with the divine. Join us at this unique rendezvous with a Mystic Minstrel.
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Jul 27: Saturday 6 pm [2 hrs], FREE ADMISSION Lecture New Acropolis Centre, Mumbai

Karma, Destiny, and Free Will

Life is like a game of cards. The hand you are dealt is determinism; the way you play it is free will. - Jawaharlal Nehru Is Man ultimately bound by Destiny? Or is he entirely free? This question has preoccupied philosophers since ancient times, but is arguably one of the most misunderstood subjects in the Philosophy of Life. However, teachings of wise men, demonstrate a clear understanding of this subject. Join us as we investigate these Laws of Life through the study and application of the Science of Astrology.

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Image courtesy: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3AParanatellonta.jpg

Aug 10: Saturday 6 pm [2 hrs], FREE ADMISSION Lecture New Acropolis Centre, Mumbai

Unmasking the Mysterious World of Masks

What is a mask? Is it just an article worn on the face, for disguise, decoration, entertainment, or protection? Does it serve a deeper purpose, relating to the sacred? Perhaps it helps in connecting with the Higher Self? Together, lets explore the different themes, aesthetics, and symbolism of masks used by different cultures around the world. Lets attempt to unmask this mysterious world of masks.

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Aug 24: Saturday 6 pm [2 hrs], FREE ADMISSION Lecture New Acropolis Centre, Mumbai

Patterns in Nature

Look deep into nature and then you will understand everything better, said Albert Einstein. It is suggested that Nature herself is governed by Laws that can be recognized through observation of the many patterns that appear on her canvas, Human Beings are an integral part of Nature, and it logically follows that these same laws and patterns must govern the life of a Human Being as well. The understanding of the wondrous patterns in nature might, therefore, give us a glimpse into the inner workings of our own existence. Join us for this fascinating exploration of Patterns in Nature.

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Sep 7: Saturday 6 pm [2 hrs], FREE ADMISSION Lecture New Acropolis Centre, Mumbai

Looking into the Heavens

On a clear and cloudless night, looking into the sky above often yields a view of countless celestial objects. Ancient cultures closely observed these heavenly bodies, to assist with various activities on Earth, such as navigation, measuring cycles of time, as well as indicators of special moments. Today, this study has transformed into a major science, involving the gathering of statistics about the vast universe; the stars and systems that are visible to us. Understanding the basics of the way the universe functions could give us a glimpse into understanding how some of these cycles affect us, on Planet Earth. This could further assist us and guide our course of action while proceeding on our path with nature, of which we are an integral part.
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Sep 19: Thursday 7:30 pm [2 hrs], FREE ADMISSION Open House New Acropolis Centre, Mumbai

Open House Introductory Lecture

Be happier! Live a more meaningful life! Live up to your true potential, and make a real difference in the world around you! At New Acropolis we foster an active and practical approach to Living Philosophy with an acute awareness of the World around us. This Open House gives you the opportunity to learn about the introductory course (beginning 26th Sep 2013, Every Thursday, 15 Sessions) World of Wisdom where you will learn what it takes to become a true philosopher through a comparative study of the Teachings of the Great Masters of the past.

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Sep 26: Thursday 7:30 pm [2 hrs], FEES APPLY New Course, Rs. 4,500 New Acropolis Centre, Mumbai

world of wisdom 1st Lecture of new course

This course establishes the foundation of every aspiring Philosopher. The curriculum comprises of traditional knowledge, presented as a comparative study of Classical Philosophies, and helps each student to develop a sensitive ability to internalize the fundamental Laws that govern Nature, and Humanity. The course material serves as an introduction to ancient cultures and investigates the origins of humanity a time when the Invisible World was respected, drawing a sense of wonder and esoteric mysticism. New Acropolis strives to preserve this universal heritage, by offering it as an integral part of its scholastic development. Course Duration 15 Sessions. Thursdays, 7:30pm-9:30pm. Prior Registration Required.
Image courtesy: http://www.flickr.com/photos/earthkath/4386318503/sizes/l/

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Sep 28: Saturday 6 pm [2 hrs], FREE ADMISSION Lecture New Acropolis Centre, Mumbai

Lighting the Spark Within Symbolism of Fire

Throughout history, the image of Fire has been used as a symbol of the celestial. Revered by many traditions worldwide, Fire symbolizes creation, purification, renewal, illumination, and has always served as an inspiration for man. Come and join us to understand more about the symbolism of Fire, and illuminate the fiery spark within.

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Image courtesy: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3AFlame_of_fire.jpg

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

The Best and most Beautiful things in the world can not be seen, or even touched. They must be felt with the heart. Helen Keller

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WISE MEN OF THE PAST

Apollo predicted that the voyage would be profitable and that the son they were expecting would be beautiful, wise and of great service to mankind. From that moment on, Mnesarchus called his wife Pythais and when their son was born, he called him Pythagoras, which means the altar of Pythia. He had 2 older brothers, Eunostus and Tirrhenus. His wife was Theano, a young womPythagoras an from Croton who belonged to his school. They had a daughter, Although his exact origin is unknown, most authors, including Damo, and a son, Telauges, Porphyry, agree that he was born who was said to have been the teacher of Empedocles. and raised on the Ionian island of Samos, around 560 B.C. When he was very young, his uncle Zoilus recommended His father, Mnesarchus, was a him to Pherecydes the Syrian ring engraver of Tyrrhenian who became his first master of origin, who did business with knowledge. Historians do not the Greeks and Phoenicians. agree upon the origin of this His mother, Parthenis, was a important master, but the fact descendant of Ancaeus, the is that, regardless of whether founder of Samos. Accordhe was from Ionia or Syria, ing to Iamblichus, on one of he belonged to the Chaldean Mnesarchus trips to Syria, he tradition which had originated and Parthenis visited Delphi. in Babylonia and was dedicated The priestess of the oracle of
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to the mysteries of mathematics and astronomy. Pythagoras remained with Pherecydes until his death and then began a series of journeys throughout Egypt. Polycrates recommended him to the Pharaoh, Ahmose, who co-ordinated his instruction by different high priests at different centres or Houses of Life, principally in Heliopolis and Memphis. There he learned the meaning of the hieroglyphics and the sacred science. During this period he also visited Mesopotamia, where he probably came into contact with the Magi who followed the doctrine of Zoroaster. He also visited the cave of Mount Ida in Crete where Zeus grew up. There he received purification from the Dactyl priests. He came into contact with other great philosophers of the time such as Anaxagoras and Thales of Miletus. When he returned to Samos, Pythagoras founded a school called The Hemicycle of Pythagoras where matters

of philosophical and public interest were discussed. On the outskirts of the city, he used to meet with his closest disciples in a remote cave, where he communicated to them his most secret teachings. The tyranny of Polycrates made him move to Croton, Italy, when he was 40 years old. His brilliant personality was at its peak, making him stand out amongst his peers in this city, where he was acclaimed by many as a counsellor and teacher. The influence of the philosopher continued to grow throughout the cities of Magna Graecia, for which he and his disciples, Charondas the Catanean and Zaleucus of Locri, drew up laws and constitutions. Just as in the case of Pherecydes, predictions, premonitions and the reading of omens, that is to say prodigious events, were a constant in the life of this wise man, all of which increased his fame and prestige and at the same time fomented envy and animosity amongst his enemies. Cylon of Croton, a rich aristocrat
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of a despotic and violent nature, attempted to join the school of Pythagoras. When he was rejected by the philosopher, he plotted against him and his followers, setting the house of the athlete Milon, where they were all gathered together, on fire, and killing everyone except Archippus and Lysis, who were able to escape. Pythagoras, who wasnt in Croton at the time, was forced to live a wandering life due to the unstable political situation that arose in other cities and the danger that this instability represented for him. Finally, he took refuge in the sanctuary of the Muses at Metapontum, where he died. Thus began the diaspora of the Pythagorean disciples and their effort to reproduce in writing some of the teachings of the master, who apparently hadnt written anything down. According to Diogenes Laertius, the results of these efforts were a number of treatises on Institutions, Politics, and Physics, along with others on the subject of the Soul, the Universe and Piety.
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Pythagorean Teachings The invention of the term philosopher is attributed to the Ionian Master, when he referred to himself as one who loves wisdom, humbly rejecting the term Sophos or wise man. Philosophers belong to a special lineage: they are those who, in the festival of life, instead of worrying about glory and applause, or money and profit, devote their time to examining the nature of things.

Image courtesy: http://www.flickr.com/photos/pelegrino/6954733060/sizes/l/

Historians find similarities in his teachings with the Orphic religion and mysteries, because of their practical character which was aimed, according to Porphyry, at preserving the mind and freeing it from certain obstacles and ties by means of a purification process. This would permit the contemplation of incorporeal eternal beings, skillfully leading the eyes of the soul towards the contemplation of authentic realities. His disciples were divided into two categories: the mathematikoi, completely dedicated to being philosophers and the akousmatikoi, who combined this dedication with their private and social occupations. In his attempt to conceptualise eternal truths, Pythagoras resorted to mathematics, considering this sacred science the best method for conceiving and expressing the first principles, the unifying powers of the cosmos and concepts such as equality, dissimilarity and alterability (change). From this point of view, everything created

adheres to numerical rules and proportions, which are synthesised in the Decad, the perfect number which contains all the rest. The numbers are therefore considered as fundamentals. These ideas are reflected in the notion of Harmony, a vital concept for the Pythagorean movement. Harmony manifests itself throughout the universe, from the combination of the rhythms of the celestial bodies as they revolve in space, known as the music of the spheres, to that which purifies the soul aided by the art of music. Harmony is not only established at a physical level but also in the relationship between the cosmic and moral order, at the heart of the world soul. Another of his teachings focused on the immortality of the soul and its transmigration from one body to another at different moments in time. Friendship had a great value for Pythagoras and was considered an essential characteristic for living together, as exemplified in
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a well-known saying: among friends, things are held in common. The ancient historians have cited on many occasions the practical aspect of his teachings, as well as his advice to live a well-balanced life in body and spirit. Among these recommendations, Pythagoras suggested meditation at the end of the day through responses to the following questions, Where did I go? Where was I? and What did I do that I shouldnt have? He also recommended exercising the memory and behaving in such a way that ones friends do not become enemies, but rather that ones enemies become friends. These and other rules were written down later under the name of The Golden Verses. Plato refers to Pythagoreanism in The Republic as a way of life. As a matter of fact, many of his philosophical theories belong to the Pythagorean tradition, which came to the Academy through the work of
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Philolaus, who was the first to write down the Pythagorean treatises. The historians mention that Dion of Syracuse purchased them for Plato from the descendants of Philolaus for a high price. The dialogue Timaeus includes the doctrines that Plato found in these same treatises.

TESTIMONIALS

New Acropolis is where my inner journey truly began. Here I learnt how to work with myself and it has opened my eyes to the deeper aspects of life. Being actively involved with the various activities conducted here has always been a very soulful experience and helped me to develop and cope better with lifes challenges. Amee Kasyap NA has become an important part of my life. It is a space where I get an opportunity to look at myself in the context of what I want to be. The opportunity to learn (cognitive) and implement (practice) the teachings of the masters transmitted through our teachers. Vasant Sanzgiri

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SUFI STORY

The Bird Who Wants Freedom

There was once a successful businessman who had everything; a beautiful wife, adorable children and a big house in which they all lived happily. The pride of his life though was his exotic songbird which he kept in a cage and fed delicious titbits when it entertained his guests. One day the man had to go on a journey far to the south and he asked his wife and children what presents they would like from abroad; they asked for fine silks, honeycomb and clockwork toys. Finally he asked his songbird if he would like him to bring anything back. I wish only for one small favour. The songbird replied. Anything, his master declared. Just this: when you see my cousins in the trees in the place
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youre going to, please tell them about my conditions here. Are you sure? I could bring you back a fine jewel-encrusted mirror or dried tropical fruit? No, just this, thank you. The songbird replied and the man went away feeling a little disconcerted but resolved to carry out his pets wishes. The man made his trip safely and carried out his business to satisfaction and spent his remaining time there buying the presents his family had requested. Finally, he went to a park and saw some birds in the trees that bore a remarkable resemblance to his own songbird. He called up to one of them and told them about how his own bird lived in cage and sang for him.

But no sooner had he finished speaking than one of these exotic birds trembled on its perch and tumbled to the ground and ceased to move. The man held his head in grief and the incident quite spoiled his trip. He returned home and greeted his wife and family who were delighted at their presents but he couldnt share their pleasure as long as the forthcoming encounter with his songbird remained on his conscience. Finally he found the courage to go down to the garden. Well? His songbird asked and, hesitantly, the man told him exactly what had happened. The song bird listened intently, then trembled on his perch and fell to the bottom of his cage, dead. The man was now beside himself with grief and confusion.

Weeping openly, he opened the door of the cage and carried out his beloved songbird in his hands. No sooner had he done so, however, the songbird returned to life and flew up to the branches of the nearest tree and let out a shrill of joy at finding its freedom. The man scratched his head in wonder and eventually asked: Okay, you win. But tell me please, what was in the message that contained this trick? The songbird looked down at him with pity and said: My cousin in Africa showed me that it was my beauty that kept me in the cage. Were it not for the delight of my singing voice you would have lost interest long ago. I had to give up that life in order to become free.
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search for space for a Cultural Centre in Mumbai

New Acropolis is an international not for profit organization, represented in over 50 countries, having values based on Philosophy, Culture and Volunteering. The organizations flagship centre in India was established in Mumbai in 2006. Today we have almost 100 active members and hundreds of regular visitors. Our centre in Mumbai serves as a community space for cultural and social exchange, where we conduct lectures, workshops, and various activities related to art, dance, and theatre. Our work is entirely supported by volunteers and member contributions. We are currently looking for a larger space of approximately 4000 sq. ft. to continue our work and house our flagship centre in Mumbai. Ideally, the new space would consist of:

A free use space in which to host public events to seat a 100 Smaller rooms to conduct classes, intensive training sessions, and an office space A pantry/kitchen Access to an open outdoor space for physical and ecology related training activities We seek the valuable support of individuals and organizations, which share in our commitment to humanity and take cognizance in our work and ideals. Guidance or referrals to philanthropic individuals or organizations would be deeply appreciated. To assist in our search, please contact us at info@acropolis. org.in or +91 99200 18204.

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NEWS FROM NA MUMBAI

An Evening of Culture On 21st June the members of New Acropolis India North met for a of cultural evening at the Shantivan Garden in Mumbai. The garden is a veritable forest and the perfect place for a few hours in nature. A play talking about the young philosopher, poems themed to the abundance of nature and musical-dance performances coloured the evening. A lovely rendition of the song yeh kaun chitrakaar hai closed the evening touching a chord with the members.

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World of Wisdom From Philosophy to Mystery

Offering a truly enriching Way of Life Course Begins: Thursday, September 26th 2013
Man and the Cosmos Ancient Egypt & India Mysteries of Tibet Buddhist Philosophy Confucius Greek Tradition Wisdom in Rome, Stoics Neoplatonism and Plotinus Astrology, Alchemy and Yoga History and Myth

Refer to Pages 18 and 19 for details

EVENT PROMOTION

Every Wednesday, 7:45AM-9:15AM Fees: 1500/month Venue: New Acropolis Centre Krav Maga is an Israeli form of self-defence. It is efficient and focused on real-world situations.The name in Hebrew translates as contact combat. Krav Maga emphasizes threat neutralization and is used by the Israeli Defence Forces and several other law enforcement organizations. Today, we are often surrounded by mindless violence and general sense of lawlessness. It is not hard to imagine being confronted by a situation threatening the life of a fellow human being. This beginner level course, guided by an instructor affiliated to The International Krav Maga Federation, will develop efficient self-defence skills to enable participants to protect themselves as well as fellow Mumbaikars. To register, please contact us at info@acropolis.org.in.

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New Acropolis Centre, A-O Ground Floor, Connaught Mansions, Opp. Colaba Post Office, Mumbai +91.22.3192.0515 | info@acropolis.org.in | www.acropolis.org.in

New Acropolis Centre, A-O Ground Floor, Connaught Mansions, Opp. Colaba Post Office, Mumbai +91.22.3192.0515 | info@acropolis.org.in | www.acropolis.org.in