The community that we call Mangrove began in 1974, when the disciples of Swami Satyananda came together to purchase the property at Mangrove Creek with the intention of establishing a space where sannyasins could come to live, work, do spiritual practice, and receive the teachings of their Guru Swami Satyananda who made regular visits here from India.

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At the request of that community, Swami Akhandananda was sent from India to Mangrove to take on the role of spiritual and administrative head of the organisation.

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During the period from 1974 up until 1987, the community expanded eventually numbering several hundred dedicated, hard working people, who thrived in the belief that they were creating an alternative future for themselves, their families, and other spiritual seekers. It was due to their dedication, hard work and commitment that the buildings and gardens came into being. It is not possible to understate the work undertaken during this time by those who literally cut down the trees, dug the earth and built, mostly by hand, what was to become the teaching space that we appreciate today.

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As idyllic as this environment appeared, it eventually became apparent that during the 1980’s  an undercurrent of abuse and bullying existed. This situation was able to continue undetected by the majority of residents up until 1987 due to the fact that all power and decision making was concentrated in the hands of a few, while the majority of residents were expected to practice unquestioning obedience.

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In 1987 it became known that during the early 80’s through to 1987 Swami Akhandananda had taken advantage of his position of authority to groom and sexually assault some of the young, underage female residents. As a result he was sentenced to a term of imprisonment.  After some time in jail he lodged an appeal which led eventually to his release. He never returned to Mangrove.

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These revelations shattered the community and all but a handful of the original residents left to re-establish lives elsewhere.

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In 1994, after several years of dormancy, there began a period of rebirth. The structure of the organisation was reviewed with the intention of bringing it in line with contemporary Australian standards. The Academy of Yoga Science was established at this time, and all management and decision making transferred into the hands of various Boards and Committees so that power could never again be exercised by a single individual. Since that time there has been strong emphasis on transparency and compliance.

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With the advent of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Abuse (the Commission) and the  decision to include Mangrove as a case study, light has been shone on this difficult period. The Commission concluded that the past cultural environment of the 70’s and 80’s with its lack of checks and balances contributed to fostering an environment in which abuse could exist.

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We apologise unreservedly for the pain and suffering of all those whose lives were deeply affected by this dark period in our history.

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In light of these recent events the residents and management of Mangrove again began a review of their policies, procedures and management structure to ensure that an environment is created where bullying and abuse of any kind has no place.

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In order to establish a culture of clarity, transparency and openness which would prevent this behaviour ever happening again, the management of Mangrove approached the organisation in India requesting an open and honest discussion as to how both parties could move forward knowing, as they did now, the details of the events of the 80’s. Through this approach Mangrove has endured the criticism of those from around the world who think that in requesting open and honest discussion we have done the wrong thing.

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In terms of each individual’s relationship, we ask only that people reflect and make up their own minds and follow their conscience.

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We wish to acknowledge the enormous contribution that Swami Satyananda has made to the spread of Yoga throughout Australia and the world, through his writings, his extraordinary presence, and his unwavering dedication to yoga worldwide. It is not possible to overstate that contribution or the fact that Mangrove exists because of his hard work and the efforts of so many of his dedicated followers.

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While Mangrove remains open to discussions around the possibility of future cooperation between the two organisations, we are not looking to re-establish the past relationship – be this formal or informal. Mangrove is now moving forward in a spirit of inclusiveness with an open heart to all who share the love of yoga. We offer an environment where true spiritual practitioners, regardless of tradition, culture, or affiliations, can find a safe and supportive environment in which to live, study and imbibe the underlying spiritual truths that enable each of us to live our lives to the fullest, and realise our potential for the benefit of all humanity.

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Please follow the links provided here if you want to know more about Mangroves current Guru Policy or the Findings of Royal Commission into the Institutional Responses to Child Abuse Case Study 21 or the Mangrove Yoga Child Protection Policy

 

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Om Tat Sat

Mangrove Yoga Management.