Lives in the Shadow with J. Krishnamurti

Lives in the Shadow with J. Krishnamurti is a memoir that documents the complex relationship between the author's family and the renowned Indian philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti, spanning four decades in Ojai, California. The narrative follows the author's unique perspective as she grew up considering Krishnamurti a member of her family, while her parents - D. Rajagopal and Rosalind Rajagopal - maintained both personal and professional relationships with him. The book explores the eventual deterioration of these relationships, culminating in legal disputes that extended beyond Krishnamurti's death. Rajagopal Sloss presents previously undisclosed aspects of Krishnamurti's private life and character, including his relationship with her mother. The publication sparked significant discussion within the philosophical and spiritual communities following its release by Bloomsbury Publishing. The memoir raises questions about the nature of public personas versus private realities, and examines how personal relationships intersect with spiritual leadership. This account offers a distinct perspective on a significant figure in 20th-century philosophy and spirituality.

Readers describe this as an eye-opening exposé that challenges Krishnamurti's public image. Multiple reviews note the author's firsthand perspective as the daughter of Krishnamurti's close associates provides unique insights into his private life and relationships. Readers appreciated: - Detailed documentation and family records - Personal anecdotes about daily life with Krishnamurti - Clear writing style that avoids sensationalism Main criticisms: - Some felt the author had a vindictive tone - Questions about potential bias due to family history - Lack of broader philosophical context Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (156 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (31 reviews) Notable reader comments: "Important historical record, regardless of one's views on Krishnamurti" - Goodreads reviewer "The author's pain and disappointment comes through too strongly" - Amazon reviewer "Necessary counterpoint to the sanitized official biographies" - LibraryThing review

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🔸 The author's father, D. Rajagopal, served as Krishnamurti's editor and business manager for over 30 years, controlling his publications and lecture arrangements worldwide. 🔸 The book reveals a controversial long-term romantic relationship between Krishnamurti and Rosalind Rajagopal (the author's mother), which lasted for nearly 25 years while being kept secret from most followers. 🔸 The Ojai Valley property where much of the story takes place was purchased in 1922 specifically for Krishnamurti, and it later became a significant spiritual center that still exists today. 🔸 The publication of this book in 1991 caused significant controversy within Krishnamurti's following, as it challenged his public image of celibacy and detachment from worldly relationships. 🔸 Despite being raised calling him "Krinsh" and considering him family, the author had limited contact with Krishnamurti after 1969 following a falling out between him and her parents over financial and personal matters.