president of the theosophical society 1953-1973
Nilakanta Sri Ram (1889-1973) was born on December 15, 1889 in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India. His parents, A. Nilakanta Sastry and his wife Seshammal, were both Theosophists. After attending the Hindu High School in Madras (now Chennai), he completed a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Madras, majoring in Mathematics. He then taught at the Besant Theosophical College in Madanapalle, the National School in Bangalore, and the National University of India in Chennai; schools established by Annie Besant, the second international president of the Theosophical Society.
Sri Ram's connection with Annie Besant went deep, working with her as he did on New India, the daily newspaper she established, helping in her work with the Home Rule League, and helping to draft the Commonwealth of India Bill that was presented before the British Parliament on December 9, 1925. During her final years, 1929-1933, he served as Dr Besant's personal secretary, and was at her bedside when she passed away.
A much-loved lecturer and author, N. Sri Ram seemed to embody truth, beauty and goodness to an exceptional degree. His approach tended towards the deeper aspects of life, veering away from sensational and peripheral matters. For a greater insight into his life and work see the biography available at our store: N. Sri Ram A Life of Beneficence and Wisdom.
Also some great articles by N. Sri Ram available accessible directly from the following links:
Initiation
Why Theosophy is Left Undefined
The Significance of Each Present Moment
