1. What’s your name, where are you from and how long have you been a member of the TS?
My name is Shyam Singh Gautam. I live in the city Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh state in India. I have been a member of Theosophical Society since 1975.
2. Are you active in your Lodge/Section and if so, what do you do?
At present I am secretary of the Theosophical Lodge at Kanpur (Chohan Lodge) for about 5 years or so. Before that I was vice president many times. For two years I have been a National Lecturer for TS India. Presently Federation Speaker for the UP Federation of TS.
3. How did you first learn about Theosophy or come in contact with the Society?
During 1975, a few days before the centenary convention at Adyar, Chennai, India.
4. What does Theosophy mean to you?
The knowledge that transforms a man by itself.
5. What is your favorite Theosophical book and why?
The four books that were instrumental for bringing about fundamental transformation in me are Ancient Wisdom AB (Annie Besant), Man Whence, How and Whither by CWL (C.W. Leadbeater), Occult Chemistry CWL & AB, Masters and Path by CWL.
6. What in your opinion is the biggest challenge the TS is facing at the moment?
Lack of interest of ordinary people, in the TS ideals. The need to spread the messages of TS by TV and other electronic and paper media and reach the public in order to reach the persons who may be potential members, and can thus be benefited.
7. Is there anything you would wish for the future of the Theosophical Movement?
Within the society, emphasis should be more on core Theosophical activities that are basically Gnyana yoga, which is supreme and unparalleled in the world. Comparative philosophies of Theosophy and J. Krishnamurti’s thoughts could add to the value of Theosophy.
From the editor:
Opinions and ideas expressed in the mini-interviews are exclusively of those who are being interviewed. They don’t necessarily represent the ideas and opinions of the compilers of Theosophy Forward. The responses of the interviewees are not edited for content. Some contributors give short answers to the questions while others touch upon the subject more elaborately.
