Krishnamurti, Jiddu (1895–1986)

Indian mystic who was hailed by the adherents of theosophy as a spiritual teacher. Despite his considerable following, he repeatedly declared that he had no wish for disciples.

Krishnamurti was born in Madanapalle, Tamil Nadu (formerly Madras state), the son of a government official and devotee of the theosophy movement. In 1909 he came to the notice of the prominent British theosophist Annie Besant, who believed him to be destined for spiritual greatness and took him into her care. An organization was formed around him, called ‘The Order of the Star in the East’. However, as he matured, Krishnamurti rejected religious institutions of all kinds, and dissolved the sect. Instead he chose to stress personal spirituality as a way of attaining supreme and lasting happiness.