Ahimsa, Cheltenham

Ahimsa is a heritage-listed residence and meditation meeting place located in Cheltenham, a suburb of Sydney, Australia. Designed and built by Marie Byles in 1937, this unique property blends seamlessly with its bushland surroundings, showcasing a small one-bedroom house made of unpainted fibro and oiled timber. Byles, a pioneering figure in environmental conservation and women's rights, was the first woman in New South Wales to practice law and played a significant role in advocating for national parks. The name 'Ahimsa' reflects her interest in Gandhi's teachings of peace and non-violence. The site, which includes the Hut of Happy Omen for meditation groups, is surrounded by native bushland and offers a glimpse into Byles' ascetic lifestyle and dedication to nature. It was added to the New South Wales State Heritage Register in 2002 and is owned by the National Trust of Australia.