A gurukula standing in the shadows in Chintadripet

The building stands in memory of its resident guru who was in charge from 1979 to 2021, when he passed on. A handful of his disciples take turns to clean and maintain the facility where they conduct yoga sessions from time to time

On a winding backstreet alley in Chintadripet, a forlorn building embodies the history of a philosophical quest, the vestiges of community living. At one time, it had doubled as a study hall, community centre; and even a wedding venue.

Today, the gurukula building stands quietly in memory of Swami Charles Chaitanya – its resident guru from 1979 until his demise in 2021. Now, its maintenance has fallen on his disciples, who from time to time, come together and conduct prayer sessions.

The parcel of land on which the building is located is believed to have been donated to the Narayana Gurukula, an institution formed in honour of philosopher and social reformer Narayana Guru. Over the years, this gurukula building in Chintadripet underwent significant infrastructural changes: from a palm leaf-thatched structure to a tin-roofed shed, it acquired a structure born out of well-ordered construction methods. 

In 2017, Charles’s disciples pooled in money to build a new residence for him beside the existing building. However, the construction work stretched on until 2022 due to shortage of funds. Charles was not fortunate enough to spend at least a day in the new building.

Following his demise, the gurukula is being run by his disciples. “His (Charles’s) presence is irreplaceable,” says a person who resides in the locality.

The neighbourhood cherishes fond memories of the gurukula as several community events and wedding ceremonies were organised on its premises. 

“One way or the other, all of us have been associated with this institution. It is special for us because no such institution is located in this cramped neighbourhood of ours,” she says.