by Mohini M. Chatterji
[First published in The Pall Mall Gazette
(London), October 2, 1884, p. 2.]
TO THE EDITOR OF THE PALL MALL GAZETTE.
SIR,---Since an attempt is now being made by the opponents of the Theosophical Society to discredit the whole movement by circulating the report that the "Mahatmas," or Eastern Adepts, are but "crafty arrangements of muslin and bladders," I ask permission to say a word. I have sacrificed all my worldly prospects, as is well known in my native city of Calcutta, to devote myself to the propagation of the esoteric philosophy of my race, in connection with the Society so unjustly slandered. Needless to say I should not have taken this step, with many others of my countrymen, if the Theosophical Society were but a sham, and the Mahatmas vulgar "concoctions of muslin and bladders." To a Brahman, like myself, it is repugnant to speak of the sacredly confidential relationship existing between a spiritual teacher and his pupil yet duty compels me in this instance to say that I have personal and absolute knowledge of the existence of the Mahatma who has corresponded with Mr. Sinnett, and is known to the Western world as "Koot-hoomi." I had knowledge of the Mahatma in question before I knew Mdme. Blavatsky, and I met him in person when he passed through the Madras Presidency to China last year. --- I am, Sir, your obedient servant,
MOHINI M. CHATTERJI.
12, Platzhofstrasse, Elberfeld,
Germany, September 30.