Soham

Soham (Jacques C H Philippeau) came to Auroville in 1987, together with his former partner Djouna. He was in Auroville continuously till he passed away at his home in Transformation on 19th September, 2024, due to cancer. He was 73 years old.

Soham spent some of his younger years in Corsica, on an isolated goat farm, where it was hard to get even essential amenities. He continued this simple life in Auroville. He is known to have been a disciplined and hard worker. As a lover of flowers and nature, he worked for a long time in the Matrimandir Nursery’s hibiscus garden, and tended with meticulous care to his own garden in Transformation, sharing his plants and flowers with others. 

Many years ago Soham lost his voice due to cancer of the throat and began to feel isolated, and eventually fell prey to depression. He worked on overcoming the instability in parts of his being with the help of Dr. Alok Pandey. One of his carers mentioned that a recent insight of his was that his yoga was a selfish one and that he hurt people because of this. Physically he had to face many difficulties but managed to address his health problems using alternative means, and in the meantime kept his discipline and ability to smile.

Soham was a gifted artist. He showed a deep understanding of mandala symbolism and intricate design. He recently donated his mandalas and other paintings to Art for Land. His paintings can be seen online in the website of Art for Land, artforland.in.

He was immersed in the Mother’s and Sri Aurobindo's writings and, at the same time, kept himself informed about what happened in Auroville and the world outside. He occasionally published long extracts from Sri Aurobindo's works in the weekly News & Notes, adding his -- equally long -- unusual comments and distinctive views about Auroville and the world to it. 

During his last few months, Soham volunteered and was happy to do shopping for Mahalakshmi Home.

His neighbour of many years, Hans van Baaren, wrote the following heartfelt message: 

“There is a wonder to have been a witness to your life, Soham. You had many adventures and trials and tribulations. You are a great soul and a warrior to have gone through so many physical hardships. And often with a total dedication and a smile. It was amazing to have known you. Bon voyage.”

Soham's remains were cremated on Sunday 22nd September 2024, at the Adventure burial ground.

Written by Annemarie, with inputs from Hans, Mauna, Guy R. and Paula.

Add your recollections

If you would feel like, you can send us your recollections or photographs, so they can be added to the page in order to commemorate years of dedication to Auroville and its ideals.

This page has been published in order to create a space of remembrance for all of those who lived, struggled and enjoyed in Auroville, making a conscious effort to manifest the Dream of Human Unity that is in the process of emerging.