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Thursday, October 06, 2011 - 2145 Hrs. IST
"The Yajna that we are performing now is meant for Loka
Kalyanam (good of the world). Do not think that we are performing the Yajna
just because people are performing Yajnas elsewhere. This Yajna is being
performed with total spirit of sacrifice. We have no desires or expectations.
Our only desire is that everyone should be happy. People perform Yajnas and
Yagas to overcome famine and drought situations. But I don't take such things
into consideration. I do not give scope for such constricted vision. Famine,
drought, etc., come and go. Whatever you do should confer everlasting happiness
on all. It should help you to attain Divine grace." - Dasara Discourse, 11 Oct,
2002.
The Veda Purusha Saptah Jnana Yajnam reached its grand
culmination today. The ritwiks started their worship very early in the morning
and completed their tasks including the study of various scriptures, the
allotted number of Surya Namaskars and the chanting of various Vedic Mantras. At
0900hrs they entered the Bhajan Mandir where they accepted the Poornahuti
Samagri from Bhagawan. With the chief priest carrying the Dhaarini (a large
silver spoon used for feeding ghee to the fire) and his wife carrying the
Samagri, the priests went on a procession with Nadaswaram leading the group.
Reaching the Poornachandra Hall which was filled to capacity
and some, the priests completed the proceedings of the Yajnam with Bhagawan
presiding over the same in a special Peetam installed in front of the Yajna
Kundam. The priests encouraged the gathering to participate in the chanting and
mentioned a few prayers for them to repeat to offer our prayers to the Yajna
Purusha, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba.
Sri Kandukoori Kondavadhani from Rajahmundry who has been a
part of innumerable Dasara Celebrations in Prasanthi Nilayam, spoke a few words
describing the auspiciousness of the occasion. Holy water was sprinkled on all
those who attended the function and Prasadam was distributed while Bhajans were
being sung by the students. Maha Mangala Arati was offered at 0945hrs. The
Tripura Governor Sri. D.Y. Patil participated in the programme.
Meanwhile a new quarters for the milkmen of the Sri Sathya
Sai Gokulam was inaugurated this morning.
Vijaya Dasami also marks the concluding ceremony of the
Prasanthi Vidwan Mahasabha. The calming tunes of Mantra Puspam was rendered by
the senior Research Scholars of the institute to begin proceedings at 1630hrs.
Sri Shashank Shah speaking on the significance of Vijay Dashami enumerated the
reasons for its celebration, namely the vanquishing of Ravana by Rama, the Great
by the Good, the defeat of Mahishasura by Goddess Durga or the evil by the
righteous and the end of the Agnyatvasa of the Pandavas.
Sri Ratheesh Kumbalath, final year student of MA Economics
spoke on the topic, "Gratitude to Mother, Motherland and Divine Mother". He
quoted the instance of Sankara who even as a renunciant ran to his mother's side
at her death bed. He went on to speak of the sacrifices of the freedom fighters.
It was Ruskin Bond who said, "A man who does not when to die does not know how
to live." He concluded his talk speaking on the unique relationship shared
between the students and Bhagawan.
Sri Sanjay Sahni is the Director of the Brindavan Campus of
the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, an inspiring speaker and a role
model teacher who enjoyed immense proximity with the physical presence of
Bhagawan. Starting with the Kabir Doha, " Saat Samundra Masi Karun,
Lekhani Sab Banraye| Dharati Sab Kagad Karun, Sai Gun
Likha Na Jaye||", he said that the glory of the Lord can never be
completely comprehended. He recounted a conversation between Prof. Bhagavantam
and Bhagawan where Prof asked Bhagawan how come after the many years of
association he still did not understand Him. Bhagawan replies, you have lived
with yourself for even more years, the day you understand yourself, you can get
closer to understanding Me.
Speaking of many instances of Love between Bhagawan and His
students, the learned speaker mentioned several instances of students in the
campus still experiencing His Divine Presence and Love. He concluded his talk
speaking on the Vedic dictum, He is smaller than the smallest and larger than
the largest and quoted fitting examples for both.
The speeches were followed by the what has become the most
awaited part of the programme, the recording of Bhagawan's discourse. Today
Bhagawan spoke on viragya and how only God can provide Selfless Love. He then
narrated a "Chinna Katha" to illustrate this. A student listens to His Guru
chanting, "I have no parents, no wives, no relatives, no friends" and chastises
him saying that it is untruth since he does have very loving parents, wife and
son. The guru then instructs him to fall unconscious at his house and pretend to
be dead. He does as instructed and finds every member of the family lamenting
his death much to his satisfaction. Then the guru enters as giving a glass of
water says that if anyone partakes this water, they will die and restore the
life of the corpse. Hearing this everyone gives excuses and ask the guru himself
to drink it. Listening to this the student develops complete detachment and
follows his master out of his house.
The final programme for the day was a rendition of Banaras
Gharana, a form of classical music with a 350 year old tradition, by Padma
Bhushans, Pandit Rajan and Pandit Sajan Mishra from Varanasi. They were
accompanied in the Harmonium by Sri Vyas Murthy Katti while the students and
staff of the Sri Sathya Sai Mirpuri of Music, Sri Kaustubh Pare, Sri Vivek
Karmahe and Sri Nishikant Barodekar played two tamburas and tabla respectively.
They started their concert with the song, "Shankar Bhole Maheswar", followed by
the Tulasidas Bhajan, "Mein Na Jeyum Bin Ram", "Jai Jai Durge Ma" in raag Durga
and concluded with "Sadho Aisa hi Guru Bhawein". Bhajans by students followed
while Prasadam was being distributed. The artistes were honoured with Shawls.
Prof Anil Kumar hailing the successful completion of this
grand festival, announced that there will be a programme by the youth from
United Kingdom who participated in the Grama Seva on 07th Morning and a skit by
Tamil Nadu in the evening.
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Durga Ashtami is the day earmarked in Prasanthi
Nilayam for Aayudha Puja or the worship of instruments. Bhagawan has
often reminded us that
"Expression of Gratitude" is one of the most important virtues of man.
This
value which is ingrained in the culture of Bharat finds expression today
when
man thanks the tools which have helped him in his profession and his
life.
As per tradition, at 0800hrs, the vehicles which had the
privilege of being used by Bhagawan were brought to the Sai Kulwant Hall where
it was worshipped. Ashram Elders broke coconuts even as chocolates were
distributed. On this auspicious day we can but only pray that God makes us too
his ideal instrument scooping out all our shortcomings so that we became a
hollow flute which our Sai Krishna will play.
The Veda Purusha Sapthaha Jnana Yajnam reached its
antepenultimate day as the Ritwiks doing Parayanam reach engrossing parts of the
grand epics they study. At 0930hrs Arati was offered in Poorna Chandra Hall
after which the devotees line up for a close Darshan of the Sanctum Sanctorum of
Bhagawan. Meanwhile students covered 13 villages of Puttaparthi and Bukkapatnam
Mandals including Amagondapalyam and Janakampalli among others.
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Monday, October 03, 2011
Eighteen villages of Puttaparthi mandal was covered by students today even as more and more devotees throng Prasanthi Nilayam to witness the daily Veda Purusha Saptaha Jnana Yajnam as it entered its fourth day.
This evening the programme started at 1630hrs with Vedam
chanting by the students of the Brindavan Campus of the University. Sri Aman
Jhaveri introduced the speakers of the day, Sri Rishabh Sachdeva, a final year
MBA student and Prof. Anantaraman, faculty of the university and media
coordinator of the trust.
Sri Rishabh said that man has a fundamental desire to grow,
to expand, to explore and to improve or in other words not to stagnate. Quoting
Bhagawan's famous phrase, "LIfe is a Challenge - Meet it", the student said that
the only way to do that is through surrender. To emphasise the point he narrated
the experience of his own mother and the various travails she went through only
to pulled out by Bhagawan every time.
Prof. Anantaraman speaking on the theme, "Our Lives, His
message", listed the two main characteristics of the Avatar of the age in his 40
years of association with Him. The first, His Vajra Sankalpa or Cosmic Will and
second His Absolute Detachment. Way back in 1947 in a letter to His brother,
Bhagawan outlined His Mission and it had to come true. Every deed of His was
perfect. The unconvetional university system of Bhagawan was rated as the Crest
Jewel of University Education by the National Accreditation Bodies. His
Hospitals provide tertiary level care absolutely free of cost and the list goes
on. Now, the learned professer, said is the time for us to carry His living
legacy as the world will remember Bhagawan based on what his devotees do by His
Divine Inspiration.
The speeches was followed by excerpts from Divine Discourses
of Bhagawan. Bhagawan through many analogies and parables, conveyed the
importance of good company. The Discourse concluded with the Bhajan, "Subramanium
Subramanium..." in the sweet voice of Bhagawan.
A classical Carnatic and Hindustani concert by the staff and
students of Sri Sathya Sai Mirpuri College of Music titled, "Sai Naada Narayani"
followed. The students started with the carnatic recitals, "Vara Valabha Ramana"
and "Devi Neeya Thunai", followed by an instrumental piece with the Veena being
the central instrument. Next it was the turn of the students of Hindustani music
to display their skills through a Tarana and a song, "Jai Jai Jai Jaga Janani
Devi". The programme concluded with a stupendous carnatic performance by a
faculty member of the college.
The students continued with Bhajans while Prasadam was
distributed to all. Arati was offered at 1840hrs.
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Today was a historic day in Prasanthi Nilayam. Today we
complete 50 golden years since the first Veda Purusha Saptaha Gyana Yajna was
performed in Bhagawan's Divine Physical Presence at Prasanthi Nilayam in the
Navaratri of 1961. The ritwiks assembled at 0700hrs in the Bhajan Mandir of Sai
Kulwant Hall. After the preliminary chants they accepted diksha vastram (new
clothes) from the Ashram elders and invoking the blessings of Bhagawan changed
into the same. The Kalasam was then taken in a procession to the Poorna Chandra
hall where it was installed on the western end of the dais,. A special
Kumkum Archana along with Lalitha Sahasranama Parayanam was commenced by
the Head Priest and his wife.
At the venue in Poornachandra Auditorium the dais was most
magnificently adorned fitting for such a solemn event. A large silver throne of
Bhagawan which the Lord has blessed during many birthday celebrations presided
over the stage on the left side. A large picture of Bhagawan with His most
benign smile adorned the right side of the stage. Statues of Rama Lakshmana Sita
stood in all readiness to the left of the stage as if guarding the Yajna Sthala
against the 6 enemies of the mind: Desire, Anger, Lust, Greed, Attachment and
Ego. The stage had the Yajna Kunda (Sacrificial Pit) prepared as per the
injunctions and students dressed in orange chanting Vedam.
With Bhagawan presiding over the session, the priests lit the
sacred homam creating fire by friction, by rubbing two sticks from churning of
two wooden pieces. The fire produced was deposited in the sacred sacrificial
pit, marking the beginning of the Yajna. Soon other rituals commenced. As one
priest went on doing Surya Namaskar, a group of priests got engaged in Parayanam,
reading of holy scriptures. Mantra Pushpam was chanted by students before Arati
was offered at 0930hrs. After the Arati, the devotees lined up in Sai Kulwant
Hall for close Darshan of the Sanctum Sanctorum and the students continued their
Grama Seva with Puttaparthi Village being the beneficiary today.
The evening programme commenced at 1630hrs with Veda Chanting
by Primary School Children. Sri Shashank Shah introduced the Prasanthi Vidwan
Mahasabha which has been conducted every evening during the Yajnam for the last
five decades. Navaratri is a festival of victory, of Power (Shakti) adored and
celebrated in 3 forms for 3 days each. Anger, Adventure and Audacity (Tamas)
dedicated to Mahakali; Wealth, Authority and Prosperity (Rajas) dedicated to
Mahalakshmi; Self-Control, Knowledge and Discipline (Satwa) dedicated to Maha
Saraswati.
The Avataric Resolve of Nurturing the Vedas and the Scholars,
Protection of the Righteousness and the Devout lead to the formation of this
holy yajna, said the learned speaker. At the conclusion of the very first Veda
Purusha Saptah, Sri Ganapathi Sastri who could expound every syllable of the
Vedas stated that he had not had the privilege of witnessing such a scrupulously
correct Yajna, which could pass the most rigorous tests of ancient Indian
scriptures and traditions while quoting Vedic Mantras in support of what looked
like casual acts of Bhagawan and declared that Baba was the Veda Purusha.
Sri Jagadish Chandra, Asst. Prof, Dept of Physics spoke on
the interesting topic, 'A Deal with Divinity'. He recalled the deals between
Young Krishna and the fruit seller, between Bhagawan and Prof. Kasturi and said
that God is the best one to have a deal with since He is the only one who roots
for us to get the best of the deal. Those who believe in Me, will not only be
provided with food but also with Bliss, he quoted Bhagawan. Take the name of Sai
once and everything will be achieved, he advised.
Sri Nagarjuna, student of II year MBA spoke on the
significance of Navaratri Festival in our lives. The highlight of his speech was
a beautiful anecdote of Bhagawan. A person carrying a heavy bundle on his head
gets into a train and having taken his seat continues to carry the bundle. When
questioned he replies that since the train is already carrying so much weight,
he wants to help by carrying his own burden. Similarly ridiculous, Bhagawan said
is the fate of man who does not surrender.
As per tradition, the speeches was followed by Bhagawan's
Divine Discourse. Excerpts from the Discourse on Oct 20, 2001 where He gives the
true inner significance of Navaratri, the purpose of worship of Mother Durga,
Lakshmi and Saraswati and the message on the importance of Morality in Human
Life.
The programme was followed by Baul Sangeet, typical folk
songs of Rural Bengal which derives devotional inputs of Hinduism, Sufism and
Buddhism. Its hymns give the lessons of spiritual practices in daily life. Sri
Purna Das Baul a world famous Baul singer has performed in front of Bhagawan on
Nov 1975 during the celebrations of the 50th year of Divine Advent where in
Bhagawan blessed him with a locket which he wears to this day. He performed with
his son Sri Bibyendu Das Baul. The programme was followed by Bhajans. The
artistes were honoured with gifts. The day's session concluded with !rati at
1830hrs.
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On the second day of Dasara, the students covered 23 villages
of Puttaparthi and Kothacheruvu Mandals in the morning after circumambulating
the Mandir. The evening programme started at 1630hrs with Vedic invocation.
At 1650hrs Sri Ajit Popat started his talk in his
characteristic style. He reminisced about the very first Grama Seva and the
instructions Bhagawan had given him and his group then. Stressing on the
strength and power of one's mind, He recounted the four stage of Sadhana or
Spiritual Practice as defined by Bhagawan to him, namely,
Feel->Know->Experience->Realise. It is important to feel that the throne in the
Sanctum Sanctoram is not empty. He is seated there as the eternal witness, he
stressed.
In the house of the Lord, there is no regression, frustration
or depression, only Sai Session, he quipped. Concluding with the reminder, "I am
not a beast, I am not a bird, I am a man, I am a Sai Devotee, I am verily God",
Sri Ajit Popat prompted the assembly to follow him in his Jaikars.
Sri R. Raghavendra, son and disciple of Padmabushan Sri
Mushnam Raja Rao and Padma Sandilyan performed a Carnatic concert in the Divine
Presence. He was accompanied on the violin by Smt. Charulatha Ramanujam, Sri
Sudhindhra on the Mridangam and Sri Sashi Shankar on the Ghatam. With his
faultless voice, Sri Raghavendra started the concert with Naadha Tanu Manisham,
upping the tempo with Shiva Shiva Shiva Enna Raaya, continuing with Arunachala
Naayakam and other songs before concluding with Chandrasekara...
The concert was followed by Bhajans by students and
concluding with "Prema Mudhitha.." in the Divine Voice. The artistes were
honoured with clothes and Prasadam was distributed to the assembly. The
Publishing department of the hostel released a new edition of "Vandana" with
Divine blessings.
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On this extremely auspicious day of the birth anniversary of
the Beloved Sai Baba of Shirdi (as revealed by Bhagawan), Prasanthi started her
Dasara festivity with Kalasa Sthapana at 0800hrs in the Bhajan Mandir of Sai
Kulwant Hall. At 0830hrs, students of Bhagawan started this year's Grama Seva.
23 villages including Kodapaganipalli and Narepalli of Kothacheruvu Mandal was
covered today.
This evening saw a scintillating presentation of Classical
Hindustani Music by Ustad Gulshan Bharti, a renowned exponent of the Lucknow and
Senia Gharana. Ustad has earned name and fame across the globe, showcasing
Indian classical musical forms at the Festival of India in France in 1991,
Russia in 1987, Canada in 1988 and Pakistan in 1986.
He started the presentation with the song Tujhe Doondtha,
followed by Mohein Ab Mere, Raja Maharaja and concluded fittingly with Satguru
Maharaj Sai. Accompanied by Sri Moinuddin, Sri Ilyas Khan, Sri Shyam Kumar, Sri
Aqeel Ahmad Khan, Sri Chandan Warsi, Sri Muquim Warsi and Kum Meena Verma, Ustad
Gulshan Bharti took the assembly into a transcendental state with his mystic
Sufi rendition.
The programme was followed by Bhajans. The artistes were
honoured with gifts and Prasadam was distributed to all. The day's session
concluded with Arati.
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Devotees from Prakasam District got their opportunity
to perform their annual pilgrimage to Prasanthi Nilayam this week. A speech and
a Carnatic music concert comprised today's programme. A skit entitled 'Seva
Aradhana' is scheduled for tomorrow.
The programme commenced with Vedic recitation at 1630hrs. At
1700hrs, Sri . M.S. Krishnamurthy, District President of Prakasam District
addressed the gathering. He started his speech enumerating the contribution of
Prakasam District to the culture of Bharath, to its society and the holy mission
of Bhagawan. Conveying his salutations to the various temples of the district,
and expressing gratitude for the various industries it houses, he reported on
the activities of the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations in the district.
The State President in a Nostalgic Mood
He then went on a nostalgic mood, recounting the past
pilgrimages of the group, the programmes performed and the loving interactions
with Bhagawan. He remembered the various groups of Islamic devotees, Lawyers,
Principals and Teachers from the district who arrived with the pilgrimage in
previous years.
The artistes seek blessings before the programme
Sri Prakash Rao, the cultural coordinator introduced the
artists of today's music programme: 'Sangeetha Sevamani', Dr. Dwaram Lakshmi
(Prof of Music, Padmavathi Mahila University, Tirupathi) performed in the
accompaniment of 'Sangeetha Sevamani' 'Violin Kala Deepika' Smt Challa
Prabhavath, (Principal of Venkateswara College of Music, Tirupathi) on the
violin, Sri Parupalli Subramanyam on the Mridangam and Sri Alugolu Satyanarayana
on the Ghatam.
A scintillating presentation.
The concert started with the Aalap, "Sathya Sainam Vishnum"
leading to the song Vatapi Ganapatim in Hamsadvani raag, followed by Appa Rama
Bhakthi in Pantuvarali raag, Krishna nee beganae in Yaman raag and concluded
with the Bhajan, Govinda Krishna Jai. Very melodious aalaps for each song
enhanced their beauty. A sublime voice and a flawless rendition on the violin
was the highlight of the programme.
Mangala Arati
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The sky was overcast this evening, but not to deter
or dampen the spirit of ongoing Onam 2011 celebrations.
This evening, on the eve of Thiruvonam, there was a musical
offering by Child Prodigy S. Mahadevan, a 12 year old from Kerala, who was
fortunate to perform in many stages across the India. Beginning with the
invocatory song Ekadantam Bhaje, the little artiste went on singing for
the next 45 minutes, presenting six carnatic pieces.
Some of the other compositions rendered were
Paripalayamam..., Sri Sathya Narayanam..., Peetambharam... etc. all sung
with interludes of aalaaps presented with aplombl. The blooming artiste
did excel bursting into lengthy aalaaps as interludes, in his tender
voice, with great dexterity infusing life into the session.
The 45 minute session was followed by another rendering, a
solo, by the familar artiste during many an Onam celebration over the decade,
Music Director from Kerala Sri TS Radhakrishnan. Bhajans continued for the next
ten minutes that ended with Subramaniam...Subramaniam in Bhagawan's Own
Golden Voice.
Artistes were felicitated with clothes and prasadam was
distributed to the entire assemblage before Mangala Arathi offering at 1800 hrs.
Thiruvonam, the day that is marked with the return of
erstwhile emperor Mahabali, will be celebrated in Prasanthi Nilayam tomorrow.
Over the years Prasanthi has seen many such live Onam sessions, where in,
invariably, Bhagawan would address the devotees from the state with an initial
vernacular greeting and reveling on the greatness of the emperor Mahabali.
We Wish Our Readers a Happy and Holy Thiruvonam 2011.
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Bhajans that has been an integral part of every day
Prasanthi sessions took a slight detour today presenting an innovative style of
bhajan singing known as 'Sampradaya Bhajans' as the ongoing Onam celebrations
2011 entered in its second day here in Prasanthi Nilayam this evening.
The programme for the evening was Sampradaya Bhajans by Sri
Vinaya Chandra Menon. Sampradaya Bhajan is a traditional bhajan singing, more
popular in South India, a tradition, as the name suggests, is handed down by
one's ancestors and is considered to be the forerunner of modern day Carnatic
music concerts, as it has a harmonious blending of the divine, art and music
elements.
Beginning with invocation of the prime deities, with his rich
and melodious voice echoing the Sai Kulwant Hall, Sri Menon invoked next The
Supreme Lord Presiding Over the session, Beloved Bhagawan, with a 'dhyana sloka'
Sada Sadswaroopam Sadgurum Sainatham...before commencing the programme
with the song Jaya Jaya Sai Namo...Jaya Jaya Jagadisha Namo...
Adjusting the tune within the fabric of Carnatic rules,
almost following a medley pattern, the versatile singer sung with elan another
12 compositions, regaling Prasanthi to greater devotional heights, while
remaining himself completely engrossed in singing. His mixture of songs included
vernacular songs in Malayalam and Tamil and some of Prasanthi's Own bhajans,
namely, Vande Uma Nandanam..., Amba Mandahasa Vadhani..., Subramaniam
Subramaniam etc...
Sri Vinaya Chandra Menon is a trained artiste in this mode of
singing, trained under the expertise of various Bhagavatars, and has
been performing this particular form of bhajan in various temples, namely
Tirupathi and Shabari Mala etc...Sri Menon was accompanied by Natesan, Gururaj
Murthy, Rajesh Menon, Hari Menon and Parvathi Menon in vocal, Ramakrisnna in
Harmonium, Swaminathan in Mridangam and Shankar Vinayak in Dolki.
At the end of the 50 mts. session, the artistes and
accompanists were felicitated with clothes. Bhajans by students continued for
the next ten minutes before Mangala Arathi at 1800 hrs. Blessed laddu prasadam
was distributed for the entire audience.
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Monday, Sep 05, 2011 This was the celebration of an anniversary, an anniversary of 39 years of service to man, an anniversary of the love between the instruments and the Master, an anniversary of the day Bhagawan blessed His Students who he lovingly handpicked to be part of his mission in the most direct way, the day Bhagawan blessed their parents and thereby taught them the lesson of Filial Piety, the day Bhagawan expanded the scope of the Prayer Chant to "Samasta Lokaah Sukhino Bhavantu", the anniversary of the day when Bhagawan told His boys that faith is the most important strength of man, not a faith in an external entity but the faith in his own innate divinity. Today is Sai Sannidhi day. The programme commenced at 1630hrs with Vedic invocations. At 1700hrs Dr. Shashank Shah, a post-doctoral fellow of the School of Business Management, Accounting and Finance at Bhagawan's University introduced the days programme which he entitled, "Sai Sannidhi: A Love Story". He spoke at length on the most wondrous relationship between Bhagawan and His students, the absolute involvement of Bhagawan in every activity of their's and his leadership from the front. Indeed Living with God is True Education. The second speaker was Sri. Vedanarayan, a national award winning Sanskrit teacher from the Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School. He recounted Bhagawan's mission of Service to Man is Service to God and the fortune to be part of that matchless mission and to have an enviable one to one relationship with Him. He listed the three most important qualities essential for the students: Trikarnasudhi (Unity and Purity of Thought, Word and Deed), Self Confidence and Namasmarana (incessant chanting of the Lord's name). Only these qualities he quipped will help us learn to swim before saving the drowning.
The final speaker was Sri Aravind B, an accomplished speaker, writer and photographer, working in the Prasanthi Digital Studio. Recounting some wonderful moments of his personal interactions with Bhagawan, he said that He always holds our hand. Our prayer to Him is to ensure that we don't leave His hand. Being a student of the institute he said is an academic process but to be a Sai Student is in everyone's grasp as it is only Surrender that will make us one. Surrender, he quoted Bhagawan, is the acceptance that everything which happens is for one's own good. Hence we need to be joyful always as everything we get has been handpicked by Him for our own personal good and growth. Tears of joy, love and gratitude he said is the most appropriate 'speech' that we can offer Him. The inspiring talks were followed by a beautiful music programme, a bouquet of five songs. The songs were interspersed with experiences shared by some of the students. Sri Raghuram Bhat from Prasanthi Digital Studio gave a particularly poignant speech, welling up the eyes of all. Many of the old songs which Bhagawan enjoyed in previous programmes had fresh instrumental pieces woven between them symbolic of the ancient but ever fresh nature of our Master, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The programme was followed by Bhajans and Arati. Prasadam was distributed to the assembly. | |||
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Today, Saturday, on the third
day to the grand Ganesh Chaturthi festival, scores of Ganeshas were taken out in
a procession to the Sanctum Sanctorum in Sai Kulwant Hall before retreating for
the immersion ceremony, marking the culmination of the grant religious
extravaganza that gripped Prasanthi Nilayam for the past three days.
The procession that started from various Prasanthi locations,
mainly from the hostels of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning and
Schools arrived at the venue, Sai Kulwant Hall at 1610 hrs. By the entry of the
last entrant, it was time for Vedam to begin. Shortly after Veda chanting began,
the processionists moved forward, towards the Sanctum Sanctorum, going for a
circumambulation of the Mandir.
The fleet of Ganeshas were arrayed, all in varied fanciful
shapes and decor, colourfully adorned, ready to salute the Lord, Beloved
Bhagawan in the Sanctum Sanctorum. The fleet that stretched from the Yajur
Mandiram end to the East Prasanthi end, further projecting towards the south
from both the ends, contained twenty-five Ganeshas representating hostels
mainly, and various other sister institutions of Prasanthi.
After the circumambulation, that took fifteen minutes, the
students from the Higher Secondary School presented a ceremonial dance, invoking
Ganesha to come back next year.
Soon it was time for the Ganeshas to retreat. As one after
one each batch brought its respective Ganesha to the Sanctum Sanctorum, the
Chief Priest offered Mangala Arathi to each individual Ganesha before The Lord
retreated towards the immersion ghat. The whole procession concluded at 1715
hrs. Throughout the session, Sai Kulwant Hall was resounding in loud chanting
and bhajans as the colourful pageantry of Ganesha ruled the roost for the entire
session.
This is the occasion when Prasanthi showcases Ganeshas in
varied theme, displaying colourful innovative ideas with the enthusiastic
devoted bunch of students putting their best to impress upon The Over Lord of
Prasanthi. This year too, like previous years, the procession had all the
variety of craftsmanship, representing greater spiritual truths of yore to
modern innovative ideas. Some of them were the Phoenix Bird Ganesha, Garuda
Vahana Ganesha, Helicopter Ganesha, Swan Ganesha by the tiny tots from the
Primary School, Garden Ganesha by the tiny tots of Smt. Easwaramma English
Medium School, Butterfly Ganesha etc...The whole programme was compeered by the
students detailing structures and their, inner significance.
Bhajans continued for the next 45 minutes and Mangala Arathi
was offered at 1800 hrs. Prasadam was distributed to the entire assemblage.
Earlier the hostel set of Ganeshas, that formed the crux of
the contingent, were taken out half-an-hour in advance. Enthusiastic batches of
students in colourful attire, chanting in loud with devotional exuberance
assisted by musical paraphernalia led the procession.
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Saturday, Aug 27, 2011
"My Life is His Message" is probably the most powerful quote
of Bhagawan who always lived His life as an example for humanity. Respect to the
mother, mother land and mother tongue were among the high principles he
practised and taught. Therefore Bhagawan always encouraged his students to learn
the folk arts of the land. Burrakatha sessions in Prasanthi hold a special
significance, as, on most occasions, it is Bhagawan who 'demands' the same,
selecting the theme and title by Himself. Ever since it’s grand entry into the
precincts of Prasanthi Nilayam, this popular folk art of Andhra Pradesh has
earned the status of ‘Divine Folklore’, earning the attention and grace of
Bhagawan.
The Burra Katha focuses on presenting serious matters in an
easily understandable manner with a touch of humour. It consists of three
artistes, one the Kathakudu( Story Teller), the Rajakiya (Political Analyst) and
the Hasyaka (Humourist).The trio, students from Sri Sathya Sai University, Sai
Prabhakar, Aravind Sai and Sai Raghuram (Post Graduates of the University),
blessed to be the ‘originators’ by being the first batch of burrakatha
students, have been displaying their skills in the distinctive
 art with
constant blessings, guidance and encouragements from Bhagawan. Prasanthi has
witnessed number of such burrakatha sessions over the past three years, enacting
epical incidents in the Divine presence. The trio have been trained by Mr.
Krishna Bhaskar from BHEL who had the rare blessing of conducting burrakatha
sessions for Bhagawan during the early years.
This evening the students decided to perform on the theme "Yugaavatar
Sai". Recounting the blessing of being His contemporary and playing a small role
in His mission, the students narrated the blessed story of the Lord's Advent and
His matchless splendor. The presentation was extremely beautiful gently taking
the audience through history - His Story with well timed comic interludes,
astute interpretations and melodious songs.
The programme concluded at 1800hrs followed by Bhajans and
Arati. Prasadam was distributed to the assemblage
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Monday, Aug 22,
2011
Serene touch of Bhagawan Sri
Krishna engulfed the Sai Kulwant Hall this morning as Prasanthi celebrated the
auspicious Sri Krishna Janmashtami in this Highest Abode of Bhagawan Sri Sathya
Sai Baba, today.
Today is Krishna Janmashtami, the day denotes the birth of
Bhagawan Sri Krishna. Enchanting Little Krishna has been one of the most
endearing Divine forms for millions and billions of hearts over past many
millennia, cutting across borders and barriers set by religion, caste and
nationality…And His song celestial Bhagavad Gita has been the right recipe for
the human minds to reach their final destination. His legacy continuous even
after five thousand years of His Divine Advent. Little Krisnna, fondled and...read
complete Krishna Janamasthmi update & Report - Prasanthi Nilayam
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A group of 126 from the Central European country of Poland
presented a musical offering at the Sanctum Sanctorum of Sai Kulwant Hall this
evening in Prasanthi Nilayam. The group that has come on a Sai Pilgrimage
comprised of 35 gents and 91 ladies.
The programme commenced just after 1700 hrs. after
half-an-hour Vedam chanting. Beginning with a Ganapathi Prarthana, "Om Gananam
Tva..." the group sang 18 songs in three languages, Sanskrit, English and native
Polish.. Abba, Father, a song in praise of Heavenly Father picturising Jesus as
the Dvine Son, Alleluya, a song in praise of The Lord, "There is a tone that
sounds like a bell", a song on the Pranava - AUM,
"Don't Worry, Be Happy", a song reflecting Bhagawan's assurance, were some of
the compositions for the evening. The programme lasted for 45 minutes, ended
with a song "Aum Santhi Aum...".
For Prasanthi, it was yet another nostalgic evening,
revelling golden memories of Bhagawan enlivening many such sessions in the past
with His unmatchable physical presence. The group sang in great harmony, echoing
His message of Unity, with great devotional fervour. Women choristers were
distinct in their floral headband while the entire troupe was donned in white.
The Choir was ably conducted by Ms. Maria Quoos.
After the programme bhajans continued for another 10 minutes
before Mangala Arathi was offered at 1800 hrs. Prasadam was distributed to the
entire assemblage.
Prof. Anantaraman, Media Co-ordinator, Sri Sathya Sai Central
Trust thanked the group on behalf of the Trust, appreciating the programme, for
their 'Voices of Unity'. He also announced about the arrival of a three thousand
strong Parthi Yatra group from Srikakulam District of Andhra Pradesh that will
be staging cultural programmes for tomorrow and the day after.
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Today is National Independence
Day, 15th August! As the whole nation is gripped in patriotic fervour,
commemorating the occasion, Prasanthi Nilayam, as she has been for past many
years, once again got into celebrating mood joining the countrymen,
commemorating the occasion in 'The Divine Presence!'.
The schedule for the day was a drama
presentation,...continue
reading with photos from Prasanthi Nilayam
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The green scarved army with the message of peace from the
heartland of Islam gave their second presentation in two days in the holy
precincts of the Sai Kulwant Hall. After the soul uplifting performance of the
Whirling Dervishes of Turkey, the other devotees from the Region offered a
beautiful musical garland to their Lord.
Entitled "Sarva Devata Ateeta Swaroopa Karuna Sagar Sai"
(which translates to My Lord Sai who is the ocean of Mercy and transcendental of
all forms of God), the programme started with a brief introduction where in the
narrator spoke about the unity of religions, the compassion of Bhagawan and the
need to experience His love.
read more with photos
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Friday, Aug 08, 2011
A pilgrimage by the Region 94 of the Sai Organisation comprising the countries from Middle East and Gulf has enveloped Prasanthi Nilayam with Islamic Fervor. The group comprises devotees from Turkey, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.The portion of the Sai Kulwant hall in front of the stage is decorated with flags from all the participating nations. A crescent smiles atop the Sanctum Sanctorum. Teachings of Islam gleaned from Bhagawan's discourses flutters on the pillars of the hall. A large contingent of devotees in green scarves representing the colour of peace have been very active in Prasanthi Nilayam. Members of the group have joined the students for Morning Bhajans since August 7th. This evening it was announced that this group will be blessed to perform in Sai Kulwant hall on the next two days. The programme will include a procession of a replica of the holy mosque of Abu Dhabi. The programmes will begin at five o clock in the evening. | |||
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Friday, Aug 05, 2011
Children from Germany who participated in the Summer Course 2010 along with other youth, parents and teachers have come on a pilgrimage to Prasanthi Nilayam. They had an opportunity to perform a musical programme titled "Religions are Many. God is one." The programme started at 1700hrs. A few representatives offered roses to Bhagawan. The German devotees then astounded the assembly with clear vedic recitation of Sikshavalli. They concluded the recitation with Sahana Vavatu...
They continued the programme with sacred verses from Zoroastrianism: 'Armaiti anahita, Ahura Mazda Tame Kare'.. This was followed by verses and songs from Buddhism: 'Budham sharanam gachami' and 'Om Mani Padme Hum'. Judaism was glorified with the piece 'Hevenu Shalom -Shabbat Shalom' and Christianity by the songs 'Dass Du mich einstimmen' and 'Agnus Die'. 'Bismillah' was their song on the glory of Islam. These songs were followed by songs of gratitude to Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, namely, 'He's got the whole world', 'We are the world', 'Gespriesen sei der Herr', 'Laudato si' and 'Du bist die Liebe'. Bhajans by students commenced at the end of this programme at 1750hrs and Prasadam was distributed to the entire gathering. Arati was offered at 1800hrs.
In other news, Thursdays and Sundays have become extremely special days in Prasanthi Nilayam this month since one Bhajan in Bhagawan's own voice is played to the delight of all devotees assembled in the hall. All devotees are blissfully able to follow the sweet voice of our most beloved Bhagawan.
Meanwhile there is a large congregation of devotees from the Middle East in Prasanthi Nilayam now. They have decorated the Sai Kulwant Hall in Islamic style. They are expected to have cultural programmes the following week | |||
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Monday, Aug 01, 2011
The North American premabandham which evolved into a Global premabandham was planned as an occasion for all alumni to come together and re-evaluate their way forward as a community. The meet took place on 30th and 31st of July. As per tradition, the alumni meet started with a service camp in Puttaparthi. The Registrar addressed the Alumni at the institute auditorium.
He spoke about the presence of Bhagawan felt more than ever before in every aspect of the institute's functioning. The utmost duty of the alumni, he emphasised was being Shining Examples for the society to emulate. The Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning is a unique university which never needs to compare itself with any other varsity. He concluded his talk with the way forward on how the Alumni can contribute to the University. After the Mandir Session on the 30th, Prof. G. Venkataraman addressed the Alumni and their family with an attempt to understand the concept of Premabandham, what it actually means and what the responsibilities associated with it are. The next morning contained interactive sessions with Sri. S.V. Giri, Trustee of Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust and Prof. Anantharaman, Media Coordinator and Faculty of the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning. The role of 25000 Alumni of the University spread across the world was discussed. Their talks was followed by a presentation and interaction on the Sri Sathya Sai Vidhya Vahini Project by Sri Satyajit and other members of the team. Enemy of innovation is to work in isolation and hence the Alumni was urged to work together on this noble task. At 1700hrs in the evening, the Alumni put up a programme of thanksgiving to their Lord, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The programme started with speeches from Sri. SBSS Madhav and Sri. G V Ravi Shankar. This was followed by a music programme which suffused the ambience with nostalgia. Arati was offered at 1800hrs | |||
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Monday, Jul 25, 2011
Taking a leaf of inspiration
from Bhagawan, carrying the mantle of His precious Divine Teachings, a group of
youth from Australia under the banner, Sai Youth Australia, staged a musical
programme in the Sai Kulwant Hall this evening. The programme commenced at the
end of half-an-hour Vedam chanting, just after 1700 hrs., with customary
offering at Bhagawan's Maha Samadhi.
Beginning with an invocatory
song in Telugu, "Premamurthini Swagatham.." the group continued with "Sathya Sai
We Love You..." before bursting into a commentary, dwelling upon, reminding
themselves of Bhagawan's advice during the group's previous visit last year, to
share love with all. With this they sang "Swami, We Are Your Youth Autralia..."
that was followed by an often heard Telugu number. One more Telugu song
followed, that glorified the importance of service, yet another
familiar song, "Sai Maatha
Biddalame Andharam..." which was followed by a "Qawwali "Meri Muhabbat Mera
Khuda Hey...". The group ended the programme, expressing gratitude to Bhagawan,
praying for continued guidance to move in the path shown by Him, following His
advice "service begins at home...". Students took over to sing bhajans for the
next fifteen minutes before Mangala Arathi at 1800 hrs. Special Prasadam was
distributed at the end of the programme.
The group from Australia
comprised of around sixty members, 35 ladies and 25 gents.
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Saturday, Jul 23, 2011
The first Parthi Yatra, post the new phase of Prasanthi with Bhagawan's Maha Samadhi, that came from Medak district of Andhra Pradesh offered a bouquet of devotional songs at His Divine Lotus Feet this evening in Sai Kulwant Hall. The programme commenced at 1700 hrs., after the half an hour Veda chanting by students, with an invocatory prayer "Shuklambhara Dharam Vishnum..."
Reveling in His unfathomable glory, entwining various attributes of the attributeless Divine, the guest artiste for the evening representing the district, Sri Sasidhara Sharma, an accomplished TV artiste, accompanied by eleven accompanists sang for the next 45 minutes before students took over for a fifteen minute bhajan session. At the end of the session, before Mangala Arathi, an announcement on the Water Project Scheme implemented in the district was made, offering gratitude to Bhagawan for His immense love and compassion to the suffering people of the district. 196 villages have been benefitted from this stupendous scheme supplying "Elixir Divine' to the drought affected areas of the district. Special Mangala Arathi was offered at 1800 hrs. and special prasadam was distributed to the entire gathering. The group from Medak included 200 men and 500 women devotees. The group is to continue with their cultural offering tomorrow as well. A special guest block comprising of medicos attending the ongoing Ortho Conference was also present for the evening session. | |||
Friday July 15, 2011UNVEILING OF MAHA SAMADHI At the stroke of 8.00 in the morning, the Mahasamadhi of Bhagawan Sri Sri Sathya Sai Baba was unveiled with the offer of Mahamangalarati. The sepulchre, if one can call it presented a beautiful sight, the whole structure including the pillars on both sides was draped in white colour.
The first programme for the
morning was Guru Vandana (salutations to the Guru) by the students
of Sri Sathya Sai Educational Institutions. This presentation was a
collection of melodious songs and Stotras (verses) interspersed with
beautiful incidents, experiences, interactions that the students had
with Bhagawan.
With the chanting of Sai Gayatri, the students
offered their salutations at the Lotus Feet of Sadguru, Bhagawan Sri
Sathya Sai Baba on the auspicious occasion of Guru Purnima. Twameva
Mathacha Pitha Twameva, Twameva Bandhuscha Sakha Twameva, Twameva
Vidya Dravinam Twameva, Twameva Sarvam Mama Devadeva. (Oh Lord! You
alone are my father and mother, friend and relation, wisdom and
wealth.
You are my everything). We have found our mother,
father, Guru and God in Bhagawan was the announcement by the
students. Describing a wonderful incident that happened during
Prasadam distribution when a child at the end of the hall could not
receive the Prasadam, the student said the merciful Lord Himself
went all the way to the child and gave the Prasadam. This world may
forget us, but the Lord will never forget us was the underlying
theme in this incident. Narrating another incident in the olden days
when the host was expecting Bhagawan for a function, but Bhagawan
had not come even after a long wait. When he went in search of
Bhagawan, he found Bhagawan arranging the footwear of people who had
come for the function. This incident is very much reminiscent of the
days of Dwapara Yuga. The song that followed was a composition of
Bhagawan, Sathya Dharmamu Santhi Premalato, Nee Nitya Jivamu Yatra
Saginchu (perform the journey of your life with truth,
righteousness, peace and love as your companions).
There was a cascade of experiences one after the other. This incident of the mother and child during Narayana Seva is equally touching. Once during Narayana Seva, Bhagawan found a woman sitting with her baby. As the student was serving sweet rice and tamarind rice, Bhagawan told the student that the child would not be able to partake of the rice items. At this instance, the student ran inside to get milk. The milk he brought was fresh and hot. Bhagawan asked the student as to how the kid could drink hot milk. Bhagawan Himself took the glass of milk in His hand, allowed it to cool and gave to the child. After this experience, another Guru Stotram followed. A student was suffering from Asthma, and was gasping for breath. His every breath was a struggle. He cried out in front of Bhagawan’s photograph and expressed his anguish. Once Bhagawan called him for an interview where he could see Bhagawan gasping for breath, and His face had turned blue. Bhagawan told him that He had removed his suffering of ten births. The experience that followed was elevating. Bhagawan had gone to Santhi Vedika to see the students doing their morning exercises. Then Bhagawan was explaining to them showing His forearm that students have to be strong and sturdy. A student felt how is that Bhagawan who is looking frail could explain about sinews and strength! It is then that Bhagawan turned towards the boy, smiling mischievously asked him to try arm wrestling with Him. The boy too felt happy to wrestle with Bhagawan.
At first the boy took
it lightly and was not using his full strength, but later he used
his full force, and even three more boys tried arm wrestling with
Bhagawan. But all in vain. The boy told Bhagawan since He was God,
he had so much strength. Bhagawan laughed at the boy and told him,
“Do you think that I will use my divine power to arm wrestle with
you?” You too can have such strength if you have purity in thought,
word and deed. The song Maa oh Maa, Maa Sai Maa followed. The next
experience shows Bhagawan care and concern for the devotees. A
student saw that Bhagawan had clipped his nails to the maximum that
blood was oozing out. When the student asked Him, Swami told that
since devotees touch His feet during Darshan, there is a possibility
that they may injure themselves while doing Padanamaskar. That is
why I am cutting My nails so small.
The song that followed was a
Telugu song. Bhagawan’s care and affection for the little ones of
the Primary School has to be seen to be experienced. Once Bhagawan
was giving ice creams to students of Primary School. Suddenly Swami
asked the students, “Do you know the qualities of God”? A boy
quickly answered, God is omniscient, omnipotent and omnipresent.
Then Bhagawan said, “God is cool, sweet and soft like ice cream.”
Once in Poornachandra Hall, Bhagawan was distributing items of
everyday use like toothpaste and deodorants. Some of them got
toothpaste, while some got deodorants. They were discussing what
they got and what they did not get in Bhagawan’s presence. Then
Bhagawan went to the stage and asked, “Who wants Me?” The students
could not answer this question succinctly. The message was when God
gives, do not compare. Ask for Swami and everything will be given to
you. It was at this point a student announced that usually we wait
for Bhagawan’s Darshan when He glides in the hall. Let us be aware
that now He is always waiting for us in the hall. A student summed
up that on this Guru Purnima day, let us be aware that God is always
with us. He has not gone anywhere. The presentation of the students
ended with a Telugu song. Prof. Anil Kumar paid encomiums to
students for their performance.
After the music programme of students Sri Leonardo Gutter from Argentina, a psychologist, a successful businessman and a member of the Prasanthi Council addressed the audience. He has the distinction of being the first president of Latin American Sathya Sai Council. Offering his salutations at Bhagawan’s Lotus Feet, Sri Gutter narrated an experience of his first visit to Prasanthi Nilayam. When he came here, Bhagawan was on a visit to Chennai. 50,000 people were waiting for him. He felt an inner urge and Bhagawan returned. So, the heart know prior, it is aware. Sri Gutter remarked that Swami says to be born as human is rare, and to be born when the Avatar comes down is still rare. Not only to know God, but to be selected by Him is a great fortune. Sri Gutter told the audience that some of us have travelled thousands to kilometres to be here. But let me tell you even residents of Prasanthi Nilayam should have taken so many births to be permanently in this place. We have to intensify our Sadhana not by the increasing the hours of Bhajans but by wearing the glasses of Sai. When we wear those glasses, we will not criticise anyone. To be a devotee, we have to deserve His love. Sri Gutter said that he has travelled far and wide in Latin America. There are so many people who know Swami. Many years ago when the Sai Organisation was at its infant stage in Brazil, he met a person there. The person was narrating his experience when he came to Prasanthi Nilayam. He could see angels everywhere in Prasanthi Nilayam. When he saw Swami, he could only visualise love, nothing else. With our physical eyes, we cannot gauge the energy that is there in the Ashram. He made an appeal to devotees, “Don’t ever stop coming here.” Nothing has changed here. We have to travel from the form to formless. He is alive, eternal; He does not go anywhere. Swami says, “If you look to Me, I look to you.” Sri Gutter made an emphatic statement that he was fully convinced in his first visit that Bhagawan is a Poornavatar. Narrating the experience when Bhagawan formed the Prasanthi Council, He called the members to His residence. Bhagawan said, “You have the good fortune of knowing His message. You have to share it with all.” We should do everything to spread His message. The time is now for us. We have to take advantage of every moment of our life, we have to become beacons of His love. Sri Leonardo Gutter concluded his talk by expressing his gratitude to Bhagawan for all that He has given. He is our father, mother and closest friend and everything. The last speaker for the morning session was Sri Nimish Pandya, District President of Mumbai, Sri Sathya Sai Organisation. Sri Pandya said that Bhagawan wanted us to realise that not only He is God, but we are also God. Man searches for God in different places like Gurudwara, temples, churches and mosques. But He resides in our hearts. Sri Pandya remarked that it is not that we have unveiled the Mahasamadhi, but Bhagawan has unveiled the ignorance in us. This is a unique Mahasamadhi; it breathes every moment. In the Shirdi Avatar, Shirdi Baba lit the Dhuni, but in this Avatar there is no Dhuni. He is going to live for ages through man’s devotion. Bhagawan has said that His words have the power of His presence. Many people had questions in their minds as to whether Bhagawan has left. Sri Pandya asserted, “How can He leave us, He is always with us. Bhagawan had a definite plan. He had decided to leave. It was a grand departure. He has taken the back seat. Now it is we who have to take the lead. Sri Pandya informed the audience that many questions were asked regarding the legacy of Sathya Sai. His legacy is the hospitals, university and the Ashram. Only God can make such hospitals for mankind.
It is an emissary of Bhagawan’s love. It is
God who has set up these hospitals and it is He who will run them.
Sometimes I envy the students because I am not young enough to join
the university. It is the alumni who will spread the light of
effulgence of Bhagawan’s teachings in the world, opined Sri Pandya.
If you want to experience love, this is the place. During dramatic
performances Bhagawan bestows his benevolent look on the children
and inspires them. Bhagawan has inspired so many millions to do
service in Sri Sathya Sai Organisation. It is only God who can do
such a stupendous task. No one could achieve what Sathya Sai Avatar
could achieve. Bhagawan gave the feeling to everyone that He has
come only for him. This is the personal experience each one had with
Bhagawan. No individual can shake the foundation of Sri Sathya Sai
Organisation, the legacy of love. Surrender everything to His love.
This divine legacy of love will unflinchingly be present in every
humankind. Manifestation of love through Sathya Sai Educare will
live forever. Sri Pandya declared, “He will speak from within us, He
will never leave us”. Bhagawan brought us to Him. Now is the time to
reflect on His Divinity. Keep coming to Prasanthi Nilayam. At the
end of all, we have to merge in Him. Every time you look in the
mirror, think emphatically, you are God, told Sri Pandya. Bhagawan
gave this Guru Dakshina (offering) on the 24th of July 1965: “Give
Me your unselfish and unwavering mind. I will appear and give
Darshan to you”.
After Sri Nimish Pandya’s speech, there were a few Bhajans by students. An announcement was made that Radio Sai has started a new service in Telugu on this day of Guru Purnima. It can be heard over Radio Sai Telugu Stream. Radio Sai Telugu has become a 24 hour channel from this day. Radio Sai can also be heard over mobile phones. Radio Sai will also start broadcasting the proceedings in the Mandir. Arati was offered at 10.25 am. The Darshan of Mahasamadhi started immediately after the programme and will continue throughout the day. As people were having Darshan of the Mahasamadhi, a few songs and commentaries by students were in progress. This was followed by continuous chants of Sai Gayatri. | |||
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Thursday, Jul 14,
2011 Morning Programme: As a curtain raiser to the Guru Purnima festival, on the morning of 14th July, the programme commenced with Veda chanting at 8.00 a.m. Sai Kulwant Hall was filled to capacity. The Hall was tastefully decorated with Chinese lanterns and buntings which added aesthetic value to the ambience. The altar with Bhagawan’s photographs was beautifully decorated with fresh flowers. Malladi brothers, Sriram Prasad and Sri Ravi Kumar, the famous Carnatic music duo enthralled the audience with their performance for the sixth time. They were accompanied by artistes on violin, Ghatam, Mridagam and Tanpura. The singers and artistes sat facing Swami’s majestic throne and the photographs.
The Malladi brothers began their rendition with a song in Hamsadhwani Raga. The songs extolled Bhagawan as a Brahmajnani (one who has the wisdom that reveals the inner reality), as the One who chose to be born in the Ratnakara clan and the mother of the Avatar, Easwaramma. The concluding songs raised the tempo to a crescendo, namely, Janula Madhya Tirugade Jagapati (the Master of the universe who moves amidst people), Sai Namasmaranam Sai Rupa Dhyanam (Chanting the Name of Sai and meditating on the form of Sai). At the end, Prof. Anil Kumar showered praises on the singers and compared them to the singers Sri Rama and Sri Lakshmana who sang along with Bhagawan in Venkatagiri during those earlier days. Sri V. Srinivasan, All India President, Sri Sathya Sai Organisations honoured the singers and artistes with silk Angavastrams, after which the singers paid their obeisance to Bhagawan. A few Bhajans followed and the morning programme concluded with Arati at 10.15 am. Meanwhile in the Poornachandra auditorium, the second day of the World Youth Conference began with opening prayers at 0830hrs. The first speaker for the day was a young adult speaker Aparna Murali, a member of the International Youth Council from Zone 1 comprising the countries – U.S.A., Canada, West Indies and Israel. The second young adult speaker was Mathias Seital, again a member of the International Youth Council from Northern Europe. The third and fourth young adult speakers were Anatoli Dikunov from Russia and Alvin Leo from Zone 3 comprising the countries – Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Fiji. Both were members from the International Youth Council. The delegates dispersed into study circle groups and deliberated on the topic “Sai Young Adults – Sai Ideal Leaders of the Future.” After the lunch recess, the reports on the deliberations of all the study circles were presented by the group facilitators. The day’s proceedings ended with concluding remarks by Sri Shitu Chudasama, International Youth Coordinator and closing prayers. Evening Programme: The evening programme commenced in Sai Kulwant Hall with Veda chanting at 1630hrs followed by speeches by two youth from the International Sathya Sai Organisation. The first speaker was Sri Shitu Chudasama, International Youth Coordinator. Sri Chudasama said that Bhagawan had granted permission for this youth conference in last November to Dr. Michael Goldstein. This youth conference is “of the youth, for the youth and by the youth.” There are 440 youth leaders. Many of them are active participants in international youth programmes. The next young adult speaker was Sri Daniel Strauss, Member of the International Youth Council. Speaking on the deliberations of the conference, Sri Strauss said that delegates examined on the ways to improve the organisation. In addition to new guidelines, delegates were asked to structure the old ones. An important deliberation was to make Sai leaders for the future. Young leaders are important for the Sai Organisation. After the speech of Sri Strauss, youth from 16 countries presented a choir in unison. The group was christened LASA (Love All Serve All). The voices of the youth, both gents and ladies gelled well with the musical instruments. The international choir enthralled the audience for about an hour. At the end, the leader of the group expressed his gratitude to Swami for the opportunity. The students from Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning sang a few Bhajans, and then Arati was offered at 6 p.m. | |||
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Wednesday, Jul 13,
2011 On the sidelines of Guru Purnima celebrations, over 440 youth leaders from seventy countries convened at the Supreme Abode, Prasanthi Nilayam for a two-day World Youth Conference on the theme "Ideal Sai Leadership". The conference got underway this morning, at the Poornachandra Auditorium, at 0830 hrs. with prayers at His Lotus Feet. After the short prayer, the conference kicked off to an inspiring start with a welcoming address by Sri Shitu Chudasama, International Youth Coordinator, who subtly laid down the objectives of the conference, aimed at cultivating ideal leadership qualities in youth through diligent application of Sai principles. Mr. Chudasama also gave an overview of the current tasks facing the youth force that has increased in magnitude since the last World Youth Conference at Prasanthi Nilyam in 2007. He also touched upon the development on youth wings throughout the globe anbd successful formation and development of the Internationial Youth Council.
Dr. Michael Goldstein, Chairman, Prasanthi Council and Sri Sathya Sai World Foundation, who followed next with his key note address introduced the fundamentals of this year's conference, namely the spiritual principles that should prevail in the lives of every Sai youth and organisation as whole. Some of the youth leaders, all members of International Youth Council, shared their experiences in implementing various programmes that effectively helped in the transformation of hearts and promoted human consciousness. These included Ivan Bavcevic from Southern Europe, Parani Kumar and Anjali Daswani from Far East Asia, Daniel Strauss and Perla Yannelli Fernandez Silva from Latin America. At the end of these succinct talks, the group broke into Study Circles and deliberated on the Ideal Sai Leadership and the way forward. | |||
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Monday, Jul 12, 2011 The third block (the section of Sai Kulwant Hall directly in front of the stage) was empty. Backdrops were in place. A few official looking people running around with tension on their faces. Thousands of others sitting packed in the Sai Kulwant Hall with anticipation writ on their faces. Familiar sites in Prasanthi. But the first time since the Maha Samadhi. The programme started at 1630hrs with Vedam Recitation. Bhajans commenced at 1715hrs and went on till 1745hrs, at the end of which Sri Nimish Pandya continued his role as the master of ceremonies. He announced that under the Omnipresent guidance of Bhagawan, the organisation work in Mumbai is going in full flow. Various coordinators presented their work reports at Bhagawan's Lotus Feet. Sri Pandya also spoke about the star project of Maharashtra, the mobile hospital which is now being expanded further. Sri Ramesh Sawant, State President of the Maharashtra Organisation, placed the keys of the new vehicles at the Lotus Feet. "Dhanyanti Parthi" (Blessed is the Land of Parthi) was the name of the Dance Ballet which was to follow. This dance was also a deep spiritual lesson helping the audience understand the philosophy of the Varkari's system of devotion. Sri Deepak Mazumdar, one of the earliest Balvikas students was the teacher for the event. The dance started with a group of children headed by Sri Mazumdar all dressed up as Varkaris, starting their pilgrimage to Pandharpur. Their one prayer to Vittala being that let them always be attached to Him and be completely detached from the world. A question is then raised that since God is omnipresent, what is the need to travel to pilgrimage sites like Pandharpur and Parthi. The answer is given that since the Lord had taken human form and lived there, the sacredness of even the soil here can raise the consciousness of the pilgrim to great spiritual heights. As the Palkhi Seva commences, the point is brought forward that body is in fact the temple of God and hence the search for God should always lead us within. Finding the omnipresent companion within, the devotees dance to the tune of Divine Music, in the company of the Divine. Demonstrating this beautifully, Sri Mazumdar worshipped an empty screen with flower petals only to find it forming the silhouette of Bhagawan. Bhagawan is the Divine Director, Composer and Artist of this play called life. It is only in union with Him can we rid ourselves from the travails of the world. Attachment to Him and Detachment from the world is the message with which the dance programme reached its completion. Gifts were distributed to all participants. At 1730hrs Bhajans resumed and Prasadam was distributed to the entire gathering. Arati was offered at 1740hrs. This was a very important event as it revived the grand festivity of Prasanthi Nilayam - the land of Nityakalyanam (eternal auspiciousness) and Panchathoranam (eternal celebration). | |||
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Monday, Jul 11, 2011
Prasanthi woke up this morning to a festive ambience and who better to add colour to an occasion than Maharastra. The Varkaris continued their grand tradition of Palkhi Seva. Every year they carry a Paduka for Bhagawan in a pada yatra ( through walk) from Dharamavaram to Puttaparthi. Sri Nimish Pandya (District President of Mumbai), who played the master of ceremony today, recollected how Bhagawan used to always enquire about the welfare of these simple devotees from him again and again over the years. The programme for the day started at 8:00 AM with the chanting of the Holy Rudram. At 8:20, Sri S.V. Giri, after taking Bhagawan's blessings, lit the lamp to start the proceedings. It started with the sacred sound of the conch. The sound of victory, the sound of truth, the sound of clarity, lit joy in the hearts of all as it declared the festivities open. |
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jueves, 6 de octubre de 2011
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