Acknowledgement -
Source: photos, text etc. Our humble
thanks to all Sai friends for Sai Baba photos & textual matter,
particularly to www. sssbpt.org - www. sairadio.org for darshans & photo
material and all the other official
& public domain sources - Also, Various Sai
Baba groups ,Forums & individuals etc. In addition, submitted articles,
Darshan account, photos & Sai news by respective Sai devotees from all
over the globe & SBOI group members to Group Saibabaofindia &
www.Saibabaofindia.com website. Submit Sai news &
Photos: mail to:
saibabaofindia@yahoo.com
Sunday, November 30, 2008 The morning
dawned with a lot of hectic activity for the members of the Sri Sathya Sai Book trust as Swami
had promised to inaugurate their new e-commerce cum storage building. The building stood in
all its majesty and grandeur just by the Supermarket stores area and it was now being readied
and bedecked for the grand beginning of its life of service to the Lord. And as everything
stood ready by 8:30 awaiting the arrival of Swami, the Yajur Mandir area seemed too peaceful
to show any indications of Swami coming out.
It was about 9:25am when Swami came out of the Yajur mandir and proceeded for darshan in the
chair itself. As He moved down the gentle slope through the ladies side, eager heads popped up
and hands holding letters stretched out in thrilled anticipation. Swami collected letters and
also spoke to a few ladies. In fact, right in the beginning, a couple of ladies got up to show
Swami a newborn babe! Swami sweetly looked at the baby and blessed it. Moving through the
gents side which was a little empty, because of the natural lull after a heavy season, Swami
collected a lot of letters. There might be a lull in terms of quantity of people but with
Swami there is never a lull in the intensity with which the people long and crave for Him.
Gently gliding through the students' area, He blessed all the students holding trays. Many
made good of the opportunity to touch His tender lotus feet and He seemed to be in a
gracefully obliging mood for that today. Bhajans were on and Swami moved into the interview
room granting a couple of interviews. After that, He moved into the bhajan hall where He sat
for about 2-3 bhajans. Then, receiving Aarthi, Swami left for Yajur Mandir. He was moving in
the car via the ladies side when something interesting happened near the big gate that leads
from Kulwant hall to Yajur Mandir.
A little boy with both his legs fractured had been brought by his mother in a wheelchair and
he was seated praying to Swami. Seeing him, Swami lowered the window glass and enquired about
him. Later, much to the delight of everyone around, the car door opened! Swami asked for the
child to be brought near and then slowly patted the legs in the cast! It was such a humbling
sight - an answer to the mythical question that emperor Akbar once asked of his favourite
minister Birbal, "Why does God descend himself to save mankind? Cannot He send any of His many
attendants?" - God's love knows no reason and season; it simply gives without a second
thought. As Swami gently touched the toes of the child and the cast too, He alone knows all
the transformations and healing going on through that transmuting touch.
Swami then reached the Yajur Mandir entrance where the Convenor of the Books and Publications
Trust offered his salutations and pleaded with Him to grace the new e-commerce cum storage
building with the touch of His lotus feet. Swami's word is the greatest bond in the Universe.
once He says it, it is as good as done. Swami had promised earlier and He said that in a few
minutes He would be arriving at the building to inaugurate it. The good news travelled fast
and far and soon devotees were headed towards today's "special" building. Meanwhile, it was
the final day for the security guards who change once every month. At the end of this great
month long opportunity, they too cluster around Swami to bid goodbye. The problem of bidding
goodbye to God/Love is that though we may leave Him physically, we keep carrying Him in our
hearts! And that ensures that a goodbye is actually never a goodbye! Swami lovingly posed for
photos with them and blessed them.
Soon, Swami too was at the special "Annexe"
building as it was named on the commemorative stone slab. As He got out of the car, He
depressed a switch that parted the curtains in front of the slab to reveal the purpose and
nature of the building. Then as the heads of the various departments of the Trust and the
Convenor welcomed Swami, the Vedic chanting with the Poornakumbham and the welcome song filled
the air. Swami cut the ribbon to mark the formal opening of the building and also lit the lamp
sending out a profound message of what He expected the "building" as a physical entity to
achieve - lighting up lives and giving more people the joy of participating in His mission of
Love. Quickly He moved through some of the rooms in the building. Roses galore were offered to
Him and He smilingly accepted all of them. He was taken through the storage area where huge
racks stood empty. Surely these will be full and brimming very soon for thats how it always is
with Swami - He enters into lives when they are empty and once He does it fullness
automatically enters too!
Swami went via the lift to the first floor where there was a nice little balcony. Swami came
into the balcony and had a look at the view from there. Soon after that, Swami descended,
blessing all the people who had gathered along the way. Coming out of the building, He seemed
to have another look at the stone slab. As He slowly entered the car, "kala jamuns"- the
prasadam- were brought to Him for blessings. He blessed them and then, receiving Aarthi, Swami
left for His residence.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Exemplary Devotion and Dedication of Ramadas
In the packed Prasanthi Calendar, where every day is a festive day, one often gets to see the
thrust being given for nation’s cultural and spiritual renaissance. In the very recent Divine
Discourses delivered on the Convocation day that was followed by the one on 23rd November,
Bhagawan repeated yet again His oft made references regarding the richness and greatness of
Bharat. …And Bharat has the richest reservoir of spiritual wealth and with this comes an array
of great men and women who had contributed yeomen services to the nation’s cultural and
spiritual build.
Fresh from the festive mood, Prasanthi’s tale of celebration was on. Every year, 24th November
does not pass empty without a cultural show and so was the case this year as well, with the
tiny tots from the state of Tamil Nadu was ready with a Musical Drama on the devoted life of
one of the well-known carnatic music composers of South India during 17th century, Bhadrachala
Ramadas.
Bhadrachala Ramadas was one of the well-known Carnatic music composers of South India during
17th century. Born in 1620 A.D., Ramadas lived during the pre-trinity period, before the times
of Thyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar and Shyama Sastri. His father was Linganna Murthy and
mother Kamamba, who named him Gopanna. But later, he became famous by the name Ramadas due to
his unconditional devotion for Lord Rama. His unflinching devotion and total surrender to Lord
Rama earned him the name of Ramadas, meaning a devout servant o Lord Sri Rama.
The Musical Drama performed in the Divine presence on the twilight of 24th November was a
portrayal of Ramadas’s total surrender and devotion to Lord Sri Rama.
The story-line:
One day, while visiting Bhadrachalam for a `Jatara` (fair), Ramadas noticed the damaged
condition of the temple there. Moreover, the place was very significant as it is believed that
Lord Rama along with Sita and Lakshmana stayed near the Parnasala there during his exile. So,
he collected money for renovating and reconstructing the temple. But all his assets finished
and he needed more money to complete the works. Then the villagers requested him to spend the
money of revenue collection for the purpose and they would repay him the amount after
harvesting crops. He did accordingly and spent hundred thousand rupees of the revenue without
the permission of Abul Hasan Qutb Shah. Just before the completion of the construction of the
temple, one night Bhadrachala Ramadas had a dream in which Lord Rama asked him to have a holy
dip in the Godavari River. So, he did the same and found the holi Sudarshana Chakra in the
river without much difficulty. He also bought new jewels for the icon of Rama in that temple.
In the earlier period of him as Tahsildar, Bhadrachala Ramadas submitted all the money of
collected from revenue to the state treasury. But later, he started to invest a part of it in
building and renovating the Rama shrine and temples. This resulted in the arrest of Ramadas by
the officials of the Nawab and he was kept at the fort of Golconda. He was in the prison for
almost 12 years. During his stay in prison, Ramadas composed most of his soul-stirring songs.
In those dark days, he constantly prayed to his favourite deity Lord Rama and begged for his
help. He believed that nothing can harm him and he had nothing to fear during this punishment
period or after that because he is under the care of Lord Rama.
There is a strange story regarding his relief from the jail. It is said that being pleased
with his devotion, Lord Rama and Lakshmana in the disguise of two employees of Ramadas went to
the palace of the Golconda ruler Tana Shah. They paid him the entire amount which was Ramadas
Ramadas owed and also received a receipt for the same from the ruler. The extraordinary
magnetism of the two youths and their sudden disappearance after paying the money made Tana
Shah believe that they were indeed Rama and Lakshmana whom Ramadas had constantly been
worshipping. So, he personally went to Ramadas to release him and also explained about the
incident. Tana Shah then gave him a lot of money and placed him in a palanquin and sent this
great devotee of Rama to Bhadrachalam to continue his noble work of temple reconstruction.
It is said that Ramadas later got `darshan` of his Lord Rama and so he is considered yet as
one of the foremost among the galaxy of Rama devotees. Many devotional songs composed by him
are sung now also in many parts of the country, especially in South India.
His greater devotion to Lord Sri Rama and the devoted pain that he underwent with his
unwavering faith in His master in rebuilding the house of the Lord earned him the name
Bhadrachala Ramadas, a name that is synonymous with pristine love and dedication to the
Divine.
37 Balvikas Children, including a tiny little girl of just 3 years from the state assisted by
a team of dedicated devotees put up a most impressive display in the Divine Presence, all with
one intention of making their Beloved Bhagawan happy. No fruition comes without pain and these
adversities come always with a greater message of His testing and reassurance that He is with
us. Mrs. Soundarya Krishnamurthy, State Mahila co-ordinator had the inspirational tale of
dedication and co-operation that made the presentation a grand success. The main character who
was to act as Ramadas had an appendicitis operation just five days before the final rehearsal
scheduled for 12th November. And when the children were about to board the bus, it was lashing
rains all over, and come encouragement from the devoted parents, who dared the rains to bring
the children in time, that Bhagawan would take care and they should proceed. From the language
front, it would be interesting to note that all these children, of tamil speaking origin
without any base or knowledge in telugu, were narrated the song sequences to get the best of
emotions each character entailed and they excelled. The drama interspersed with many a
keerthan sung in melodious tunes was a treat to the eye and ears in the presence of the
greatest joy man could ever decipher, Divinity’s physical presence.
A prayer submitted during Dasara celebrations this year finally fructified…and the children
got a life opportunity in the Divine Presence. …And the Lord was pleased. Coming down the
ramp, Bhagawan granted a coveted photo session for the children….a cherished possession to
carry back home which would speak of a tale of Divine Love.
.
Sunday, November 23 2008
- HAPPY BIRTHDAY SRI SATHYA SAI BABA
Celebrating the Divine Advent
The term birthday has greater connotations of profundity when it is used with reference to a
sublime spiritual persona. And when this spiritual persona in reference is incidentally
Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, we need to take a refreshed look at the term birthday. For Him
who has made the characteristic and profound declarations about His coming on to planet earth,
it is obvious that the most apt term to be used to commemorate His coming is ‘Divine Advent’.
The Birthday of Bhagawan is always a very special occasion in any calendar year in Prasanthi
Nilayam. But with each passing year, the Birthday festival is growing in grandeur, splendour,
magnificence and majesty. People from all parts of the globe swarm like bees to this spiritual
capital to witness the grand birthday festivity. This year, the festivities had begun as early
as 10th November with Bhagavata Saptaham and Sahasra Poorna Chandra Shanti Mahotsavam.
Devotees who were present in Prasanthi Nilayam during these days would have experienced the
Divinity of Bhagawan in full measure. One can say that the rain god was at Bhagawan’s beck and
call. On the 16th of November (2nd day of Sahasra Poorna Chandra Shanti Mahotsavam Yajna),
there was heavy rain, but on the 17th there was not even a drop of rain. Similarly, on the
22nd, there was heavy downpour, the roads were flooded, and there was slush everywhere. On the
23rd, there was not even a trace of rain. On the contrary, the sun had come out shining
brightly. It was as if the Sun god was offering his obeisance to Bhagawan. Yes, the Birthday
of Bhagawan is a moment to cherish for the gods of the highest heavens. After the Birthday
function, when this report is being made, there is a possibility of rain lurking in the sky.
But, albeit all these anticlimaxes, Prasanthi Nilayam was basking in glory for her rare
privilege of housing the Avatar of the age and as the Day approached, the day that was etched
in the history of time in bold and gold, it was joy of anticipation every where.
Ushering into the day all have been waiting for, Prasanthi had the hustle and bustle in the
wee hours when every single devotee wished to occupy a slot in the Sai Kulwant Hall, the venue
of the Birthday celebrations. Much before the eastern sunny rays splashed over the spiritual
township, the throng of devotees were up from bed with just one thing in mind and thousands of
hearts blossomed into ecstatic joy of anticipation of beholding the sight of the Avatar yet
again coming out granting the rarest of the boons, a birthday Darshan!
A beautiful arch with the lettering 83rd Birthday of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba was seen
richly decorated with flowers and other paraphernalia of decorations. The dais too was a treat
to the eye with magnificent flower decorations. Video cameras were stationed at important
points to catch all the live action. Pressmen had cramped every available space in the
exclusive gallery allotted to them with their scribble pads. Lensmen too had taken their
positions in their allotted places.
Welcoming the Lord in white was a pageantry comprising the University Brass Brand, both Men
and Women in their gleaming uniforms, the Bagpipers from the Primary, both by Boys and Girls,
and the Vedam Group with Poornakumbham. This glittering cavalcade forming the pageantry
welcoming Bhagawan stole the show when the Lord in white came out of His Divine Abode just
after 9:35 a.m. Bhagawan who came in His special chair moved through the throng of devotees
for a complete round while Sri Rudra Prasna was heard reaching its crescendo in the
background.
As Bhagawan came to the dais, the brass band, both the boys’ and girls’ played Happy Birthday
song with the audience keeping beat to the song. After this sonorous tunes were played by the
brass band of boys and girls followed by the primary school bands. Then Bhagawan went to the
portico of the Mandir to cut cakes lovingly brought by students of various educational
institutions, staff of hospitals and the institutions in the Mandir. After a while, Bhagawan
again came to the dais and signalled to the students to start Bhajans. Even songs like “Sri
Raghavam Dasarathmaja Aprameyam ...”, “Namo Sathya Sai Baba ...”, “Manishini Madhavuni Chese
Mahine Swargamuga Marche Sathya Sai Bhagawan Ki Enta Premayo, Enta Premayo …” This song has a
profound meaning, which is worth mentioning in this context: “The love of Bhagawan Sri Sathya
Sai Baba for humanity is incomparable and indescribable that He is transforming humans into
divine and earth into heaven …” After these songs and Bhajans, Arati was offered to Bhagawan
at 10.55 a.m.
What entailed on this auspicious morning was very clear. It was His Divine Darshan that was
foremost in the agenda of every devotee the benevolent Lord was magnanimous to bestow the
boon, as He chose to sit on the dais for a long time, in resplendent white. The Karnataka
Governor His Excellency Rameshwar Thakur was present on the dais paying obeisance to Bhagawan
while Sunil Gavaskar was seen presenting a cricket memorabilia, a bat signed by the members of
the 1983 World Cup Winning Team. ...and a miniscule of the world was present to behold the
sight of the Lord walking on earth on His chosen date with destiny..
The evening programme commenced with Bhagawan arriving
from His residence at 5.40 pm. Once He reached the stage, He asked Prof Anil Kumar to speak a
few words in Telugu and to introduce the speakers for the evening. Sri. V. Srinivasan, All
India President of the Sai Organisations spoke first, and was followed at 6.15 pm by Sri. Ajit
Popat of the UK.
Saturday, November 22 2008 Convocation 2008
(source: published by www.sssbpt.org)
Sri Sathya Sai University – Alma Mater for Ambassadors of Peace…
The 27th Annual Convocation of Sri Sathya Sai University was held on the 22nd November 2006,
in a glittering ceremony that had its grandeur, richly deserved for the yeomen service it has
been rendering in the field of education for a quarter century. This prestigious institution
that is undoubtedly the one of its kind that has won attention and accolades for simple reason
that it promotes value education with spiritual orientation helping in engendering students
whom Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba prefers to address as future ambassadors, has thousands of
such students in its alumni list who are engaged in relentless service activities in different
part of the world, following the invaluable inputs that they received before leaving the
portals of this great institution.
Sai Kulwant Hall, the venue of the XXVII Convocation of Sri Sathya Sai University was
tastefully decorated with flowers of various hues. A beautiful arch decked with flowers
bearing the letters XXVII Convocation of Sri Sathya Sai University welcomed Bhagawan into the
Hall. Another arch bearing the same lettering embossed in gold was placed near the gate facing
the dais. A backlit panel bearing the letters XXVII Convocation … with serial lights of
various colours was placed just the dais. The dais had virtually a bower with flowers in the
background in the shape of an arch. Roses arranged in the shape of a Kalasam were placed on
either side of the dais. On the dais were neatly arranged chairs for Bhagawan, the Chief
Guest, the Vice Chancellor, Members of the Governing Body and Members of the Institute Trust.
The regal convocation procession began at 3.50 p.m. led by the students of Institute Brass
Band. They were followed by two students on either side holding the scepter with the Institute
insignia embossed on it. The Registrar of the University carried the ceremonial mace. Members
of the Governing Body and Members of the Institute Trust followed them. Bhagawan the
Chancellor of the University came to the Hall in a red robe. At the outset, Prof. Vishwanath
Pandit, the Vice Chancellor of the University garlanded the Chief Guest Prof. G. Venkataraman.
He also welcomed the prominent guest from the UGC, the Vice Chairman of University Grants
Commission, Prof. Moolchand Sharma. The proceedings began with the customary Vedic chant which
has a lofty meaning to consider the mother, father, preceptor and guest as God and hold them
in high esteem. The Vice Chancellor then requested the Chancellor, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai
Baba to declare the convocation open. The convocation was declared open by Bhagawan exactly at
4 p.m.
The Vice Chancellor in his speech welcomed the Chief Guest and Members of the Governing Body
and Members of the Institute Trust to the XXVII Convocation of Sri Sathya Sai University. The
Vice Chancellor then introduced the Chief Guest Prof. G. Venkataraman. Prof. Venkataraman,
educated at the University of Madras, had an illustrious career. He has rendered yeoman
service to the nation, starting his career at the Bhaba Atomic Research Centre (BARC). He also
held the position of Director, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). In
recognition of his services, he was elected President of Indian Physicist Association. He was
also conferred Padma Shri by the Government of India. Above all he has been a humble devotee
of Bhagawan and was also the Vice Chancellor of the University. Prof. Pandit said that this
was the 17th Birthday of Bhagawan as he had come to serve Bhagawan in the year 1992. He
pointed out that this University was declared as the crest jewel of all universities by NAAC
(National Assessment and Accreditation Council). We have to be grateful to Bhagawan for giving
this University to the world, he said.
Then the Vice Chancellor announced the achievement of the students of the University:
8 students have cleared the CSIR examination.
42 students have passed the GATE examination with a student securing the top rank.
Sri Sathya Sai Grama Seva and the spectacular sports events every year showcases the calibre
of the students. He said 3 lakh residents in 150 villages were covered by students in the
Grama Seva held this year. 437 students received their degrees this year, 20 students were
decorated with gold medals by Bhagawan this year. 5 students had completed their doctoral
dissertations from the departments of Mathematics, Physics, Finance (2 students) and
Economics.
The candidates for the various degrees were then presented to the Chancellor. The principal of
the Sri Sathya Sai University then administered the oath to the students: “I hereby solemnly
declare and promise that if admitted to the degree for which I have been duly recommended, I
will conduct myself which befits as a member of Sri Sathya Sai University …” The various gold
medalists were as follows: List of Gold Medallists
Chief Guest’s Key-note address:
The Chief Guest of the Convocation Prof. G.V. Venkataraman began his convocation address by
expressing his gratitude to Bhagawan for being conferred the honour of the Chief Guest of the
27th Convocation. Prof. Venkataraman congratulated the grandaunts not for only for their
degrees, but also for being the students of Bhagawan. Many years ago Prof. V.K. Gokak declared
that this university has the good fortune of having Bhagawan as the Chancellor of the
University who is also the Chancellor of the universe. He said, when Bhagawan established the
Sri Sathya Sai Arts and Science College in 1968 for women in Anantapur, He made the first move
for a Kali Yuga Gurukulam. The seed had sprouted into a sapling with the establishment of Sri
Sathya Sai Arts and Science College in the year 1969 in Brindavan. He said that Bhagawan takes
care of the minute details of the University right from its management to its finance to
examination. While students learn from teachers how to earn a living, Bhagawan teaches the
students how to live, the learned speaker said. In the early days at Brindavan, the students
rose as early as 4 a.m. and took care of activities like milking the cows, even ploughing the
fields, feeding cattle and whitewashing walls. Prof. Venkataraman then narrated an interesting
incident of those days when this college was affiliated to Bangalore University wherein a
student was awarded 7 gold medals. In the convocation function when the medals were about to
be given, the student requested the chancellor of the University that he wanted the medals to
be given in his hand as he wanted his Guru to confer the medals. As soon as the convocation
function was over, he rushed to Brindavan and offered the medals to Bhagawan so that he could
be decorated by Bhagawan for his achievement.
He also related an incident which amply showed the love of students for Bhagawan’s physical
proximity. When in 1975, the Brindavan college was growing and the hostel was relatively small
for the students. So, Bhagawan wanted to build a spacious hostel near the sports ground. All
preparations were being made by Col. Joga Rao. A day before the ground breaking ceremony,
Bhagawan came to hostel. Then a student gave a letter to Bhagawan. After Bhagawan read the
contents of the letter asked the student whether He could ask the warden to read the letter
for the benefit of others. The student readily agreed. He had expressed his anguish at being
separated from Bhagawan. He had written, “Why was Bhagawan so upset that He was distancing
them from Him?” Bhagawan was moved by the sincere prayer of this boy and He immediately
changed the plan to construct the hostel at that place. Instead the hostel was built close to
His residence. After a few years Bhagawan built a college and hostel in Prasanthi Nilayam when
it was considered impossible to have college in such a remote place, but Bhagawan established
a University itself. He said, Bhagawan would visit the hostel and institute frequently and
discoursed on Atma Vidya (education of the Self). Bhagawan even used to visit the stadium and
witness the matches. Once in the course of a volleyball match, Bhagawan said to the teachers
and senior students present there that once the server serves the ball, his teammates would at
any cost ensure that the ball does not touch the ground on their side. In a similar way, the
teachers should maintain that students do not slacken in their efforts.
Bhagawan used to take the students along with him to Kodaikanal in the summer months. On an
Easwaramma Day, Prof Venkataraman said, Bhagawan had suddenly gone out in his car and came
back after one and a half hour. The students thought that Bhagawan had gone for a ride, but
Bhagawan revealed to His students that He had gone to distribute blankets to poor people who
could not come to the Sai Sruti Ashram when the distribution was done. He said this showed
Bhagawan’s care and concern for the poor and needy.
The erudite speaker said that the current economic meltdown is due to uninhibited consumerism
without any regard to moral values. He said that Bhagawan has been emphasising a lot on moral
values in business to MBA students in His talks. He referred to a Bhagawan’s Discourse when
Bhagawan said that Mother Yashoda had butter in one hand and a stick on another hand to catch
Krishna. Similarly Bhagawan draws students with education. Like Mother Yashoda, He does not
have a stick, but imparts Atma Vidya to His students. He also narrated an incident when He
took upon Himself the injury the students were to suffer while doing a stunt on lorries. The
learned speaker said that such is the concern of Bhagawan for His students.
Prof. Venkataraman then related what Bhagawan had told in one of His Discourses during
Kodaikanal visit in 2007. “The students as long as they are here, behave well, but when they
go out how they would conduct themselves is My concern. This is what worries Me. If they
behave well that is enough gratitude for Me.” Does any chancellor bestow so much love? That
God is here playing innumerable roles being the revered Chancellor the universe. As Sadguru,
He is steering the students to the moral path in His Gurukulam, opined Prof. Venkataraman. He
concluded His speech by saying that he did not speak about students because the world knows
about it, but wanted to tell the secret behind it.
After Prof. Venkataraman’s speech, Bhagawan delivered His Divine Discourse, the excerpts of
which follows:
The Divine Benedictory Address
Bharat is the motherland of many noble souls who earned great reputation in all the continents
of the world. This is the land of many valorous people who could vanquish the enemies in the
battlefield. This is the land of many learned people who taught the Vedas and other sacred
scriptures to the people of other countries. But, unfortunately, the Bharatiyas today have
forgotten the principles of spirituality and are taking to wrong path. (Telugu Poem)
Boys and Girls!
It is your responsibility to uphold the glory of this country Bharat. This country Bharat is
highly reputed and is the land of plenty and prosperity. In spite of many foreign invasions,
this country has prospered. The real beauty in this land is observance of forbearance. There
is no greater feeling than the feeling that one has towards one’s own mother. This country
Bharat is known for women of chastity. Savitri could bring her dead husband back to life. Do
you find such chaste women in any other country? This is also the birthplace of Damayanti.
Mother Sita came out of blazing fire unscathed to prove her chastity. Today everyone seems to
succumb to silly problems. People seem to have forgotten their responsibilities. Just as a
mighty elephant submits to the dictates of the mahout, the Bharatiyas are unaware of their own
strength and are aping others. Truth and righteousness have been the guiding principles of
Bharat. Since these twin principles are forgotten by the Bharatiyas they are suffering.
Man should declare that I am a human being not an animal. When he declares that he is a human
being, he should have human qualities and not animal qualities. Where there is love, there is
no chance for hatred or enmity. The dog loves its puppies and the birds love their young ones,
but modern man does not love his fellowmen. Today there is no unity in Bharat. Where there is
unity, there is purity, where there is purity, there is divinity.
Man should develop faith in the Self. But man today lacks Self-confidence. Self-confidence
leads to self-satisfaction, self-satisfaction leads to self-realisation.
Human quality is still prevalent in Bharat. In other countries there are so many problems.
Today even countries like U.S.A. and Japan are envious of Bharat.
Today the food is polluted, water is polluted, even air is polluted. Bharat faces no such
pollution problems.
Man is verily God. But man is not able to know his true nature. Education leads to only
argumentation. Modern education is not conferring the knowledge of the Self. Parents spend
lakhs and lakhs to send their children abroad for studies. But they return totally spoiled.
There is no need to go abroad. What is available in Bharat is not available elsewhere. The
greatness of Bharat is beyond estimation. The kind of fortune that you find is Bharat is not
found anywhere.
There are many people who invite Bhagavan to foreign land. They are prepared to bring
aeroplanes to take Bhagawan with them. I do not want these comforts, I want only devotion.
There are no enemies of Bhagawan. Bhagawan loves everyone. But His pure divine love is often
misunderstood.
If your desires are fulfilled, you are sure to be spoiled. So, Bhagawan is training youngsters
here with all limitations. Students have great love for Bhagawan. As Bhagawan leaves this
place elsewhere, they bid farewell with tears. He is an intelligent man who helps those who
have harmed them. That is true human quality. Whomsoever you meet, consider him as God. God is
in human form. Rama, Sita, Hanuman, all were humans. All are divine. Names may be different,
but the principle of Atma is the same in all.
It is necessary to develop equal-mindedness at this young age. You may think it is difficult,
but in reality it is easy. You will not experience in spite of doing Yajnas and rituals. In
the outside world, there are only pieces. Peace is within you.
You call yourself as humans and behave like an animal. Evil qualities like greed, avarice,
hatred are animal qualities. Be a human with fellow human beings. Do not hate anyone. Till
this moment, Swami has no hated anyone. Bhagawan is full of love. Bhagawan may be at a distant
place, but divine love is drawing people like magnet. He is not angry with anybody. He is
always happy. Bhagawan always smiles. Swami wants us to be blissful. Swami has not sent any
invitation to anyone, but thousands have gathered here. It is only your love for Bhagawan that
has drawn you here. When Bhagawan goes in the streets, shopkeepers come running out of their
shops to have His Darshan. On this sacred day, one has to develop love primarily. Very soon
the world will be united under one roof. Nobody would say, I am from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka,
Kerala and so on. Everybody would call themselves a Bharatiya. We do not belong to any party.
We have only the party of love. You may go anywhere, you will respected and honoured if you
have the party of love. Love is selfless. A true man is one without an iota of selfishness.
Every human being has love. There is no greater quality than love. Samasta Lokah Sukhino
Bhavantu (May all the beings of all the worlds be happy!). This should be our prayer if we
want the world to be peaceful. This is the message of Bhagawan today.
Bhagawan concluded His Discourse with the Bhajan, “Hari Bhajana Bina Sukha Santhi Nahin …”
The grand convocation function concluded with the singing of National Anthem by all at 6.15
p.m.
In the evening at 6.30 pm. students of Sri Sathya Sai University presented a play "Divya
Premashrayam", in the Poornachandra Auditorium. The Drama entails the tenets of His essential
teachings to serve the society in the name of the Lord. This presentation interspersed with
scenes from the epics and lives of the greats bringing greater effectiveness sending out the
message of service to the society. Songs set to melodious music added flavour go the
glittering presentation that was watched by Bhagawan, the Chief Guest, the UGC Vice Chairman,
The Vice Chancellor, scores of other dignitaries, students and staff from the university and
devotees in general. A grand finale to the glittering Convocation of the unique Institution,
Sri Sathya Sai University
Prasanthi Nilayam is warming up to celebrate the 83rd year of His Divine Advent and as a
prelude to the D-Day comes the annual convocation of Sri Sathya Sai University. After a joyous
ride for three festive days during the Sahasra Poorna Chandra Darshana Mahotsavam followed by
a grand Ladies’ Day festivity, the focus of attention is on the 27th Annual Convocation of Sri
Sathya Sai University to be held on 22nd November in Sai Kulwant Hall.
click here read more
Ladies' day at Prasanthi Nilayam began with the traditional Suprabhatam being sung by Smt. P.
Susheela just before 5.30 am. The vedam chanting around the Mandir was also by the ladies.
Bhagawan arrived in Sai Kulwant Hall at 9.30 am in a procession led by the girls bands of the
Anantapur campus of the Sri Sathya Sai University and the Primary School, along with Vedam
chanting students, as a welcome song was aired. Fifteen minutes later, when Bhagawan reached
the stage, the programme for the day began with a ten-minute introduction by Mrs. Chetana
Raju. The two speakers of the morning were Dr. (Mrs) Ankhi Mukherjee, former student of the
Sri Sathya Sai University and Lecturer in the Universty of Oxford and Mrs. Sylvia Alden, who
is a member of the Central Council of the Sai Organisation in the USA with a Masters in
Special Education. After their talks, the materials kept in the centre of Sai Kulwant Hall
were distributed to the needy. Solar LED lanterns, water purifiers, rugs and other items
useful for the rural folk were passed on to the recipients drawn from various parts of
Anantapur district. After prasadam distribution, Bhagawan accepted Arati at 11.10 before
returning to His residence.
In the evening, once again Bhagawan was ushered into Sai Kulwant Hall in a procession, with
another welcome song played over the speakers, at 5 pm. When He reached the Mandir, He moved
to the Bhajan Hall where the children from the Primary school were ready in costumes for their
programme this evening. After a brief interaction with them, Swami came onstage and started
the programme for the evening. Smt. Sunitha and troupe presented devotional songs for an hour
and Bhagawan blessed them with clothes before the programme by the Primary School children
began at 6.20 pm. Their 70 minute dance-drama brought out the glory of Sai down the ages from
Krita Yuga till the present, with video projections on the back-drop adding to the narrative.
Swami was very pleased with their performance and went down among them for group photographs
before returning to His residence after Arati at 7.40 pm.
The traditional Rathotsavam in which the idols of Rama Lakshmana Sita along with Venugopala
Swami are taken from the Mandir to the Kalyanamantapam in Puttaparthi was held this morning.
Bhagawan arrived at Sai Kulwant Hall after blessing the baby elephant Gita near His residence
and after a darshan round in His chair, went inside a few
18th
Nov. click to enlarge
minutes before 9.30 am. The procession led by
Vedam chanting students began soon after, and as they came near the stage, Bhagawan arrived
there to send them to the Gopuram gate. He then moved to the Gopuram gate to see off the
procession and then returned to the Mandir and asked for Bhajans to begin a few minutes before
10 o'clock. At 10.30, He accepted Arati and returned to His residence.
Words can't explain the kind of bliss that thousands of devotees witnessed during the last day
of Sahasra Poorna Chandra Darshana Shanthi Mahotsavam. Apart from the many thousands, there
were many Swami ji's belonging to various temples, spiritual organisations and Institutions.
The atmosphere was totally Divine and why not - it was the day to thank the DIVINE for coming
to His world, and witnessing 1000 full moons in this BODY. People started coming in as early
as 5am into the stadium. The security staff were all alert and everyone wanted this DREAM day
to be a very grand one in typical Swami's style. All the VVIPS one could think of were
present in Puttaparthi apart from many other dignitaries. And while we all were waiting for
Swami, Prof.Anil Kumar and Nagaphani Sharma rendered some beautiful poems praising our beloved
Swami's compassion and love.
It was around 9am when Sri Jayendra Saraswathi from Kanchi Peetham arrived int the stadium
followed by Swami Shivakumara from Sri Siddaganga muth, Karnataka, followed Sri Sakthiamma
Swami from Sri Narayani Pitham and others At 9:45 am the most auspicious time, a profoundly
memorable moment in our lives, that moment which is undoubtedly a result of years and years of
sadhana, that moment of glory, which made every one jump in joy and that moment of joy which
took us to Samadhi state came when the Lord of the Lords clad in bright golden yellow robe,
seated in the golden coloured Mobile Throne appeared. He sat in Supreme Bliss looking at all
of us majestically from His Golden Chariot as it entered into the Sri Sathya Sai Hill View
stadium amidst Veda chantings with 3 huge elephants leading the procession followed by
students chanting Vedas. The priests and all the Swamiji's on the dais watched the Greatest
Avatar the man kind has every witnessed. Thousands in the stadium were wiping their eyes, to
take away the tears of joy and have a good view of the MATCHLESS Lord whom we very rarely see
in His Golden Chariot.
Swami's chariot which had small
tyres was pulled by Sevadals, (they might have done lot of meritorious deeds in their past
lives to be chosen
for this once in a life time chance), and the chariot took its time and it was just beautiful
to watch Swami in His golden chariot seated all alone,
blessing all the devotees seated on either side, watching all the arrangements in the
stadium and a sweet smile in appreciation.
The Chariot slowly came closer to the dias, all the primary school kids seated right across
the dais were in full swing with their characteristic full throated Veda chanting. Swami
sweetly looked at them appreciating their devotion and blessed them from the Golden Chariot.
As the Golden Chariot came closer to the dais, He was slowly wheeled on to the dais and all
the Spiritual heads looked at Him, some of them were here for the first time and we could see
the bliss on their faces and a first hand experience of what our Swami is and what we devotees
mean to Swami and the love He has for us. The Chariot stopped in front of the dais and Swami
transferred on to the dais. He then proceeded to see the vedic activities taking place by the
priests and Swami visited each and every Yagna Kunda and blessed the rituals while witnessing
the poornahuthi thus ending the Most memorable Event which the Man kind has ever witnessed so
far. Swami then came forward and all the Swamiji's were seated on either side of Swami. It was
a treat to watch this particular scene where the Avatar of this Kali age with Swamijis from
distinguished Spiritual organisations (Muths) in India on either side. Sri Shiva Kumara Swami
from Sri Siddaganga Muth Spoke in kannada thanking Swami for this opportunity and asked the
humanity to uphold the Indian culture and Dharma. The Swamiji who is a centurion was seated
next to our beloved Swami and Swami had a sweet smile when He exchanged words with Him. It was
around 10:45am and Arathi was given to Swami and taking leave from all the blessed souls,
Swami left to His Physical Abode in His usual Porte car thus marking the end of a magnificent,
never before SAI morning and there were smiles and just smiles on every one's faces... and any
particular reason for that broad smile??? Its the reflection of Love we have for Swami and if
you are smiling or there are any tears in your eyes while reading this report.. its all Swami
and His love being reflected on you.....Will we have another holy day like this.. probably yes
if Swami blesses us... Prasadam was distributed to all the approximate150,000 devotees
(the chosen souls) and we all left for our homes with our families hoping to come back again
at 5pm for a cultural programme by Ms.Mahalakshmi Iyer and Troupe and hopefully a divine
discourse from the 1000 full moon Swami... while others headed to the Bangalore International
Airport to get back to their countries after their 3 or 4 day after having witnessed one of
the most important days in the history of the universe.
( Submitted to SBOI-Group)
When the almighty Lord decided to script His own story for a descend down to
planet earth, He had everything fell in place and in that was written in gold
– 17th November 2008, and the day was indeed golden.
Inducing nostalgic memoirs of the epochal scene way back in 1997, Prasanthi
witnessed yet another grand spectacle, Golden Chariot Procession coinciding
with the grand finale of the three day long Sahasra Poornachandra Darshana
Mahotsavam.
The atmosphere around was electrifying as thousands of hearts and minds woke
up to a morning that promised much, with greater expectation of beholding yet
another Divine Sport!
As time ticked to the scheduled hour, it was expectation in the air with
greater enthusiasm, as all eyes ready to gaze on the Lord of thousand moons
coming in a regal procession on the golden chariot. Adding to this expectancy
came through the mike mellifluous poetic rendering by Madugula Nagaphani
Sharma who rendered the air that was intermittently translated by Prof. Anil
Kumar, boosting the air of expectancy. The tempo was further enhanced with the
song Sarvam Sai Mayam Jagamantha Sai that was followed by yet another audio on
Sai Mahatmyam.
Surya Koti Samaprabha the brilliance of one crore (10 million) suns. As said
in the Sloka (verse) Vakrutanda Mahakaya Surya Koti Samaprabha …Bhagawan Sri
Sathya Sai Baba shone with the brilliance of millions of suns when He entered
the stadium at 9.40 a.m. in a glowing yellow robe sitting majestically on the
brilliant Suvarna Ratham (golden chariot). It was a sight to behold for
everyone, not only for the mortals, but also for the gods of the highest
heavens. An attempt to describe such a sight as the brilliance of millions of
suns only shows our shallowness, it defies all descriptions.
Bhagawan was heralded into the Hill View Stadium in a long procession
consisting of two huge elephants, Institute Brass Band playing sonorous tunes,
Bhagawan’s beloved elephant Sathya Geeta and a big contingent of about 150
Veda chanting students in ochre dhotis and angavastrams. As Bhagawan neared
the Yajna Vedika, like the previous two days of the Yajna, there was a booming
display of pyrotechnics. A Swagatam song (welcome song) rent the air ushering
Him into the Yajna Vedika.
Upon entering the Yajna Vedhi after a 20 mts. chariot ride, Bhagawan was
traditionally and religiously welcomed with Poornakumbham by family members
and senior devotees.
Earlier the proceedings for the final day began at 6:30 a.m. with ganapathi
pooja and special sankalpa for the homam. Rithwicks in groups gathered around
the 10 homa kundas offering ghee and boiled rice with the accompaniment of
vedic chanting, that went on for almost 2 hours.
After Bhagawan entered the Yajna Vedika, this being the concluding day, 17th
November 2008, Lakshminarayana Poornahuti was performed for the Yajna. The
priests chanted sacred Vedic Mantras in unison, Veda chanting students chanted
Sri Rudra Prasna, Purusha Suktam, Sri Suktam and Durga Suktam as Bhagawan was
giving Darshan to devotees from the Vedika. He went to each side of the Vedika
to bless the vast multitudes of devotees with His Darshan. One could see a
huge concourse of devotees literally filling every inch of space in the
stadium. Precious materials were offered in each of the 10 Yajna Kundas.
Bhagawan blessed them before they were offered in the Yajna Kunda. Final
offerings were done in each of the Yajna Kundas with ghee (clarified butter)
and fruits.
There was a wide array of Mathadipathis (heads of Maths) from different Maths
of India. These luminaries are the heads of prominent Maths in India. They had
come to grace this auspicious function by their presence and also shared the
dais with Bhagawan. They were: Sri Sri Sri Dr. Shivakumara Swamigalu, Head of
Sri Siddaganga Math, Tumkur is a nonagenarian and also spoke a few words on
this occasion, Sri Jagadguru Madhwacharya Mahasamsthana Pejawara Mathadeesha
H.H. Sri Vishwesha Tirtha, Sri Sri Sri 1008 Sri Sushameendra Thirtha Sri
Padulavaru, Sri Jagadguru Kanchi Kamakoti Peetadhipathi Sri Jayendra
Saraswathi Swamigal, Jagadguru Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji, Suttur
Math, Sri Sri Rangapriya Mahadesika Sri Sri and Sri Sakthiamma, Sripuruam,
Golden Temple, Sri Narayani Pitham. Pujya Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji
graced this occasion on 16th November. Sri Vilasrao Deshmukh, Chief Minister
of Maharashtra also shared the dais with Bhagawan and sought His blessings.
This most auspicious and holy function concluded with Jaikars – Bhagawan Sri
Sathya Sai Baba Ki Jai and offer of Arati to Bhagawan at 11.00 a.m.
After the Poornahuthi Bhagawan appeared at the front of the Vedika followed by
distinguished guests who arrayed on either side of Bhagawan granting a rare
spectacle for the multitudes gathered all over the stadium. For the devotees
who have been waiting from early hours it was indeed a sight to behold with
the yellow clad Lord of thousand moons granting darshan on the most auspicious
day. Adding fervour to the grand spectacle came the helicopter drizzling holy
water blessing the multitudes from heaven followed by a shower of hues
rejoicing the grandeur and beauty of this earthly carnival. It was indeed a
golden day to rejoice!!!
The afternoon function for this day, 17th evening, was held at Sai Kulwant
Hall. Bhagawan came to the Hall at 5.25 p.m. and went round the Hall to the
delight of the huge gathering. The Sankaracharya of Puri was present on the
dais on this occasion. The arrangement of idols for this evening’s programme,
Rukmini Kalyanam (marriage of Rukmini with Lord Krishna) was Lord Krishna’s
idol placed on a pedestal on one side, decorated in all splendour and His
consorts Rukmini, Sathyabhama on another pedestal, on the other side. The
celestial wedding was performed in the traditional manner with all its piety.
The priests continuously chanted Vedic Mantras as the divine marriage was
being performed. The Mangalasutrams (Mangalasutram means an auspicious thread
or cord or gold necklace) for the celestial wedding was first shown by a
priest to the entire audience on either side. Then the gold necklaces were
placed on the arm of Lord Krishna. After some time, the necklaces were removed
and worn round the neck of Rukmini and Sathyabhama. Thus, the ceremonial
wedding was performed to the thunderous applause of devotees. Flower garlands
were exchanged between the idols of Sri Krishna and Rukmini and Sathyabhama.
After this, there was a brief period of chanting of Sama Veda by the priests.
Mahamangala Arati was offered to the idols at the end of this ceremony. The
priests chanted Vedic Mantras religiously standing in front of Sai Krishna.
Bhagavan blessed the priests with mementoes. He then materialised a gold chain
for the head priest of the Yajna, Sri Lakshminarayana Somayaji. Bhagawan went
amidst the priests of the Yajna. When Bhagawan came back to the dais, the
Sankaracharya of Puri paid his obeisance to Bhagawan.
Ms. Mahalakshmi Iyer’s Concert
There were two concerts for the evening session, the first of them was by Ms.
Mahalakshmi Iyer & Troupe, the second was by Malladi Brothers. Ms. Mahalakshmi
Iyer sang her songs in the Hindustani classical style of music. She began her
performance with a Marathi song, a song dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Guru
(preceptor). It was a Tukaram Abhang (is a form of devotional poetry sung in
praise of the Hindu God Vitthala also known as Vithoba. Abhangs were first
sung by Tukaram in his native language, Marathi). Her second song, a Mira
Bhajan was sung with deep feelings of devotion. The lyrics of the song ran
thus, “Whatever anyone may, I have given my heart to Lord Krishna. My mind
which was hitherto in slumber was suddenly woken up after hearing the name of
the Sadguru. Her third song was a composition for occasion, Sahasra Poorna
Chandra Darshana Mahotsavam, the meaning of which was, “As long as there is
water in the Ganges, may the Lord Sathya Sai live!). Whatever the world may
say, I should always love and worship You. I should always cling on to Your
Lotus Feet.” “Rama Ka Gun Gan Kariye …” was the next song. The song, Bhaje
Murliyan …was enjoyed by one and all. The song, “Damadam Mast Kalandar …”
enlivened interest in the audience. One could see the audience joyfully
clapping to the song. At the end of Ms. Mahalakshmi Iyer’s concert, Bhagawan
gave clothes to her and her accompanying artistes.
Malladi Brothers’ Brief Performance
The Carnatic music duo Malladi Brothers along with their father who performed
on the evening of 16th were given another chance on this evening too. Starting
their performance with “Radha Sameta Krishna …”, they followed it up with a
livelier song, “Shambo Mahadeva ...” in Panthuvarali raga. This song won the
plaudits of the audience in good measure. Prasadam was distributed to all the
devotees in the end. The Arati for this memorable day was offered at 8.10 p.m.
Thus, concluded the grand and glorious Sahasra Poorna Chandra Darshana
Mahotsavam festival which will ever remain etched in the hearts of everyone at
Prasanthi Nilayam.
Sunday, November 16, 2008Lord had a special invitee and from the heavens rained droplets;
drizzles dripped in the wee hours bathing Prasanthi as if showing gratitude; unwilling to
budge from the sight that was heavenly , she went on showering herself, making merry of the
boon bestowed upon…
Yes, rain god forced her entry into Prasanthi and was unwilling to desist. The day 2 of the
Yajna had a dizzying start due to the sudden rains, but things fell in place soon when lashing
rains subdued to cooling drizzles retaining the charming freshness and adding to this
freshness arrived Bhagawan at 9:30 a.m.
While spirit beyond the platform was bit dampened due to the intermittent rain, the dais was
yet again a scene for bustling actions. The morning rituals included Yagasaala Suddhi and
Pratah Kaladharanam. A group of priests were engaged in Sarva Veda Shakha Parayanams while
another set of Rithwiks were engaged in Navagraha Parayanam and Maha Mrithyunjaya Japam.
Two main rituals for the second day of the Yajna were Satharudra Abhishekam and Maha
Mrithyunjaya Homam. Satharudra Abhishekham was performed to the Sayeeshwara Lingam that was
consecrated during the Ati Rudra Maha Yajna held in the year 2006. Abhishekham was done to the
linga with milk, curds, clarified butter, turmeric paste, sugar, vibhuthi (holy ash), coconut
water etc. Maha Rudrabhishekam is performed invoking greater benediction from Lord Rudra. As
each of these items were offered under strict religious discipline with accompaniment of vedic
mantras, the Linga that was charged by the Divine hands during the Atirudra was shining in
splendour evoking nostalgic memoirs.
Maha Mrithyunjaya Homam was done invoking immortality for all living beings. The two hour long
homam was done by the Chief Priest for the Yajnam. With the accompaniment of holy chants and
Bhagawan presiding over, Poornahuthi was offered to the Yajna Purusha. Oblations including
vastra, phala etc. along with a golden chain materialised by Bhagawan were offered to the holy
fire followed by Mangala Arathi.
These are the spiritual exercises that entail detailed scriptural procedures to follow in
precision and the blessedness that it brings goes not for any limited sect, but for the
universe at large, ensuring greater benediction for world harmony.
Earlier, His Holiness Parama Pujya Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda Swamiji, the Pontiff of
Avadhoota Datta Peetham at Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda Ashrama in Mysore came on stage paying
obeisance to Bhagawan. After spending sometime with Bhagawan and watching the Poornahuthi
proceedings, the Swamiji left the stage while proceedings were still on.
The Yajna Vedhi was indeed a sight of greater benediction with 150 priests sitting around
chanting vedic mantras and performing rituals along with 150 boys chanting Rudram. With
weather taking its toll showering rain drops from heavens beyond the sky, and Bhagawan in His
majesty showing up with His pristine presence, two elephants taking guard on either side of
the platform raising trunks in reverence reminding one of the kingly days, the sight was
absolutely dazzling and spiritually elevating. Gods of the highest heaven would also be
watching this heavenly sight through the holes of heaven,
if there be, when Yajna Vedhi was virtually transformed into a virtual heaven…and they seemed
to be singing to the fraternity on planet earth…
This is the house, the house of the Lord!
We wish the best for you!
This is the house, the house of the Lord!
We wish the best for you!
Bhagawan who came at 9:30 a.m. spent an hour on the platform, at times watching the rituals,
often moving around blessing the pundits and students onstage and the devotees who dared to
show up in spite of intermittent rains. Managala Arathi was offered at 10:30 before Bhagawan
retired to His Divine Abode.
World may watch this Divine cosmic drama without entreating much into the greater import it
entails. But, anything that happens at His instance has a greater meaning and it is aimed at
Loka Kalyaanam, for the benefit of world at large!
Evening 16th Nov. 2008 :
The week long Bhagavata Saptaha came to a grand conclusion on 16th November 2008. On this
evening, Bhagawan came to Sai Kulwant Hall at 4.40 p.m. Needless the say, the number of
devotees have swelled to enormous proportions. As Bhagawan came to the dais, the priests
started abhishekam (ceremonial sacred bath) of the idols of Lord Krishna and Rukmani and
Sathyabhama (the consorts of Lord Krishna). The abhishekam was done with religious fervour,
chanting of Vedas by students and priests. As the ceremonial bathing of the idols with milk,
curd, honey, diluted sandal paste, tender coconut and Kumkum continued in the traditional way,
the students chanted Sri Rudram, Purusha Suktam, Sri Suktam, Bhu Suktam and Narayana Upanishad
from the Vedas. After each ceremonial bathing with water, the idols were dried with soft cloth
and arati was offered to the Lord. Lord Krishna with His consorts was garlanded with different
types of garlands. If it was Tulasi (basil) garland one time, it was a fragrant rose garland
next time. With such scrupulousness and devotion, the entire ritual was performed. An LED
screen placed at the eastern side of the Hall, gave a view of the entire landscape of the
proceedings. After completing the abhishekams, elaborate decoration was done on the idols. It
was sight to watch the Lord and His consorts adorned with jewels and gems of exquisite beauty
and diadems on the head.
After this, it was the turn of Sahasraavadhani Medasani Mohan, another erudite scholar to
conclude the proceedings of the Bhagavata Saptaham. He dilated at length on Sri Krishna Leela,
right from the Lord’s birth to His killing of demons and the childhood pranks of Krishna. His
narration started from Sri Krishna’s birth in the jail and how he heard an akashvani (audition
from the sky), which foretold his end. He continued with how the river parted when Vasudeva
was carrying the child Krishna to rescue it from the tyrant Kamsa and the killing of Poothana.
He gave a beautiful analogy by saying that Lord Krishna had all the traits of previous Avatars
like Matsya, Kurma, Varaha just like human beings inherit the traits of their previous births.
The butter stealing episode of Krishna too found a mention in the speaker’s inimitable style.
At the end of his didactic speech, Bhagawan blessed the speaker with clothes and materialised
a chain for him.
If it was the mellifluous rendition of Priya sisters yesterday, it was the beautiful
compositions and their singing in ornate style by Malladi Brothers from Vijayawada today. All
their songs were sung in Carnatic classical style. Bhagawan released a DVD “Sai Naada Jhari”
sung by the brothers. As it was being released, a song from the album, Sai Namasmaranam Sada
Rupa Dhyanam was played on the public address system. Their father who also happens to be
their Guru gave a lead to the songs in the form of verse in a melodious manner.
The first song Sri Raghuvara Sugunalaya …sung in Bhairavi raga was preceded by a Sanskrit
verse and Telugu verse by their father in Mohana raga. The next song Janulamadhya Tirugadhe
Jagapati …was sung in Khamas raga. One song followed the other in quick succession. Janaki
Ramana Dasaratha Nandana sung in Kaapi raga was the next Carnatic classical song. The next
song was the famous Ramadas Kirtana, Takkuveni Manaku Ramudu Okkadundu Varaku ... sung in
Suryakamti raga, Capu Tala had a spellbinding effect on the audience. Disathu Me Sarva
Sukhadayi …, a Sanskrit song was the next one sung in Sankara Bharanam raga.
It is worth mentioning here a Telugu poem sung by their father: “Dear Lord, in times of misery
and difficulty, I have been fortunate to receive Thy grace without Thy knowledge. So, I have
now become a thief. Oh Easwara, it is my humble prayer, please catch hold of me and do not let
go off Thy hold.” This was sung in Tilang raga.
Now it was the song for the occasion, Sathya Paritraana, Dharma Paala, Santhi Varada, Prema
Swarupa Sai…” This raga “Sai Chandrika” needs special mention here as it was invented by
Malladi Brothers themselves. Sai Chandrika is the derivative of Kokila Priya Raga, which is
the 11th raga in the list of 72 Mela Kartha Ragas (fundamental ragas) in the Carnatic School
of Music. Since it is the 83rd Birthday of Bhagawan, the 11th raga in Carnatic music, i.e., 83
subtracted by 72 Mela Kartha Ragas was chosen as the raga for this song. Their next
composition was Sai Namamamrutham Sai Charitamathulitam sung in Yama Kalyani raga. Another
composition for this occasion was sung by their father – Sahasra Chandra Darshanam …The raga
for this song was Madyhyamavathi. They capped their performance with the famous Mangalam song
Rama Chandraya Janaka …Then Bhagawan blessed the singers and the accompanying artistes with
clothes. Mangalarati for the day was offered at 7.45 p.m. to Bhagawan.
The venue for the three-day Sahasra Chandra Darshana Mahotsava Yagnam commencing this morning
is the extended Shanthi Vedika Stage at the Vidyagiri Stadium. Seating for the vast gathering
has been arranged on the ground in addition to the galleries by spreading green matting. Giant
LED screens and strategically placed TV monitors helped all to have a ring-side view of the
proceedings. At 7.45, the priests began the chants. Bhagawan arrived at 8.45 and was welcomed
onstage with the Poorna Kumbham amidst chanting by the priests and the students. After
spending more than 90 minutes going around the different parts of the stage and blessing the
entire congregation, Swami accepted Arati and returned to Yajur Mandir. -
click on the link to read all about :
Sahasra Chandra
Darshana Mahotsava Yagnam with photos
Bhagawan arrived at 4 o'clock this evening in His chair to Sai Kulwant Hall. The priests who
were to conduct the Sahasra Chandra Darshana Mahotsavam ceremony from tomorrow were seated in
front of the stage. Clothes and other ceremonial materials for them were brought out. After
Swami's blessings, Sri Adikesavulu Naidu, chairman of the Tirupati Tirumala Devasthanam,
distributed the items to the more than 120 priests. The Bhagavatha Saptaham speech for today
began after the distribution at 5.15 pm. Dr. K. Ramanujacharya narrated the stories of Dhruva
and the churning of the ocean, bringing out the inner meanings of the Puranic stories. As the
speaker concluded at 6.30 pm, Bhagawan blessed him with a chain before accepting Arati and
returning to His residence in the car. An announcement was made about the programme commencing
tomorrow at 7.30 am in the Vidyagiri Stadium. The priests moved to the stadium, where they
completed preliminary rituals onstage. www.radiosai.org is readying to carry video web streams
of the highlights of the ceremonies over the next three days.
Prasanthi Nilayam is gearing up to have a date with destiny, as the epoch making event,
Sahasra Poorna Chandra Darshana Shanti Mahotsavam is scheduled to get underway on the 15th
November on a grand scale. The festivity is scheduled to have a formal beginning with the
commencement on the 14th evening with a group of 170-200 learned priests entering the
specially erected Yajna Vedhi in the Sri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium. The festivity would
continue for three days to have a grand finale on the 17th in the Divine Presence and will be
attended by devotees from all around the world.
The preparations are in full swing in the Hill View stadium with a 56 ft Yajna Vedhi being
completed at the Shanti Vedhika. This extended portion is a temporary build that has a
permanent base built with granite walls and laden with sands, protruding to the front as an
extension to the existing Shanti Vedhika structure. There are 12 homa kundas evenly marked on
this extended platform. This extension is being done in such a way that the existing structure
is left in tact underneath, well covered by this newly erected platform…
Apart from the venue, Yajna Vedhi, all the statues adorning the huge Hill View Stadium have
been repainted to resplendence; all the roads leading to the venue have been resurfaced, a
huge arch is being done on the road leading to the stadium and bamboo barricades are being
done in the stadium for proper crowd control.
Prasanthi Digital studio teaming up with the students of Sri Sathya Sai University is gearing
up to provide deferred telecast and video streaming of highlights everyday for the benefit of
viewers across the world. Two huge LCD screens are projected in the stadium to facilitate a
better view of the proceedings to the massive crowd expected to attend the function. Closed
Circuit TV transmission will be provided in Sai Kulwant Hall adding on to their effort to
reach out devotees with better coverage.
Hundreds of extra hands, ranging from masons to welders & carpenters, painters to sculptors,
technicians to engineers are being pressed into service, and hundreds and thousands of extra
sevadals from different states have been already deployed to meet the emerging festive demand,
Prasanthi Nilayam, the global spiritual town housing the supreme divinity is doubly ensuring
not to leave any stones unturned and thus making the event a momentous one! Above report
courtesy: sssbpt.org
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Yesterday and today, the Bhagavatha Saptaham continued with scholarly talks by Sahasravadhani
Garikipati Narasimha Rao garu and Tribhasha Sahasravadhani V. Padmakar garu respectively.
Bhagawan arrived in Sai Kulwant hall after five o'clock and began the proceedings with the
puja by the Tirupati priests for a few moments followed by the speech in Telugu for around an
hour. Yesterday's topics were the prayers of Kunti and Parikshit along with the episode of the
Varaha Avatar. Today's speech dwelt on Prahlada's story. Swami blessed both the speakers with
chains before accepting Arati and returning to His residence. This evening, an announcement
was made after Arati about concluding of the two-week village service programme by the
students with the distribution taking place at Prasanthi Nilayam tomorrow.
All good things in life come in pairs they say. We referred to the Akhanda Bhajans as the "Kalpavriksha
Day". It seemed as if that too comes in pairs! As part of the grand yet sublime celebrations
for the Sahasra Poorna Chandra Darshanam Yajnam(SPCDY) the Bhagawatha Parayanam was to begin
on the 10th. The Bhagawatham is the collection of the leelas and mahimas of Lord Mahavishnu
with special emphasis on His glories as Lord Krishna. King Pareekshith had been cursed to meet
death in 7 days and he made the correct choice to listen to the Srimad Bhagawatham in the last
week of his life. Death approached him but it was immortality that embraced him as he was
freed forever from the tyranny of the flesh. The power of this is such because as Swami says,
the Name equals the Form. What then do we say when the name and form come together? Cutting
the suspense, what was the "Kalpavriksha Day" part 2 all about? Well it was something that
many of the westerners, the ladies actually, will cherish throughout their lives. Lets go
through the beautiful day without hurrying, in the order in which the events unfolded for this
is the best order - hasn't it been ordained by Swami Himself?
The idol of Sri Venugopalaswami (Lord Krishna) had been installed and decorated with all jewels
and flowers at the centre stage. There were priests attending on to the Lord in idol form at
all times. At about 10:30 am, Swami arrived for the installation and first Aarthi that was
performed in Kulwant hall. The hall was empty as the morning session had just concluded and
everyone had given up the thought of Swami coming out in the morning. But well, as He came,
many of the students who were still around, rushed in and were lucky to witness what happened.
Since the hall was almost devoid of the full strength Seva dal volunteers, the gates were
quickly closed to prevent the excited and charged devotees from rushing in. Swami blessed all
the priests all those on stage seemed to be intent on just falling prostrate at His feet. The
priests and organizers are all part of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam. Receiving Aarthi and
blessing all the priests, Swami made another round to the Vidyagiri stadium where the work now
has taken on a feverish pace and one can already feel the magnificence and grandeur of the
upcoming event. From there, Swami drove back to the Yajur Mandir.
Day 2
Come the evening and Swami came out for darshan as usual - only today it would not be that
usual! Swami's darshan is never the same or "usual" in the way we use the term. New and
refreshing things keep happening. It is only on a few fortunate occasions that we come to know
what is happening or at least what happened! Today, Swami completed the darshan rounds and all
expected Him to come on the stage. What does the Lord do instead? He moves to the ladies side
for a second round and in what seems like a random choice, starts picking up ladies and tells
them to move towards bhajan hall.
"Is it an interview? But...wait. An interview will not be for 30 people! And Swami is simply
picking up people from everywhere? The only thing common among all of them (other than their
Love and devotion to Him of course) was that they were all westerners or shall we say
non-Indians."
Swami then went into the bhajan hall and the ladies sat, overwhelmed and happy. Swami spoke to
a few of them as to where they had come from. Then He said, "Two Russian ladies...they run
behind Swami's car always... call them." These two ladies have been so persistent and tireless
in their pursuit of God that not only the all-knowing one but almost all those in Parthi for
quite some time know them! They were immediately brought to His presence and Swami gifted them
a smile. He moved up and down the aisle and gave a command, "Call all the foreigners." As
people hurried to put His command into action, He gently moved around the hall bringing tears
from many eyes. To those lost in the Love of God,(and who is not? Many who have claimed and
even paraded themselves as atheists have sobbed and wept in front of Him as children for
apparently no reason whatsoever.) there seem to be tears always. When they cannot see their
Lord, their tears speak of their agony and when they see Him, it is the tears again that speak
of the unspeakable joy. Tears! Those salty droplets that carry with them the sweetest of
feelings!
When the bhajan hall ladies' side was filled to its capacity, Swami began the distribution.
Distribution? Of what? When the Bhagawatha Parayanam begins, it is customary to do
Vasthradaanam (distribution of clothes). Boxes of brown silk sarees were opened and lovingly
Swami began to distribute these to the ladies who had assembled. As He gave away the sarees,
many of the ladies spoke to Him in their native tongues. There was so much that each wanted to
tell Him and there seemed to be so little time. To top it all, this opportunity had arrived as
a pleasant bolt in the blues and no one seemed prepared with what they wanted to tell Him. And
that shows the importance of living every moment of life occupied with those thoughts and
feelings that we cherish the most for at such sudden times, only they surface in the mind and
get rendered out by the tongue. Swami's response to the multitude of languages being showered
on Him was in a language that all know and understand - that of the heart. His smile seemed to
have a magical calming effect on all and His Abhayahastha seemed a satisfactory enough answer
to all the travails and tribulations of every heart.
There were mothers with their babies, grandmothers who had difficulty standing such that Swami
had chairs arranged for them to sit and young women beginning their journey of Life receiving
the gifts of Love from His hands. Swami advised one of the women to eat well and have porridge
and milk. To another He enquired whether she was happy and she replied loudly, "Very happy
Swami. Very, very, very happy." All the babies inside were blessed and the mothers were so
pleased with that. Swami went on this way for about 1 whole hour and it was only after He had
personally distributed sarees to everyone inside (that is at least 250 of them) that He moved
back into the interview room. In that one hour, He had spread happiness to various parts of
the globe even with His physical frame as the grateful and joyous recipients spread it through
word of mouth and the scientific technology of the cell phone and the internet. As Swami moved
out of the bhajan hall, one of the boys there told Him, "Swami how you shower so much Ananda
on all!" Swami just seemed to shrug it away for what seems as extraordinary for us is so
natural for Him. And it was so apt also. The story of Krishna is sweetest when He is doing His
divine leelas as a child among the Gopikas. Sai Krishna seems to have gopikas from all the
nations of the world and what we witnessed before the Bhagawatha Parayanam was the ceaseless
flow of love that exists between Sai Krishna and His Gopikas, the Lord and His beloved
devotees. Practicals even before the theory class if we can call it so!
Swami then quickly moved to the stage where the Saptaham was to commence. The priests did a
brief ceremony and Swami moved across the stage to observe the Idol. After a short
introduction in Telugu, Brahmasri Dr. Nagaphani Sharma took the stage with his Bhagavatha
narration. Interspersed with songs and poems, the scholar described the glory of Sai in
mellifluous Telugu for an hour. The speaker, an orator par excellence, had a mridangams and
harmonium supporting him as he spoke and sang. Swami seemed very happy and touched with his
rendition. So lost was he in the glories of Sai, that it truly became a Sai Bhagawatham
Parayanam. Swami blessed him profusely and patted him while posing for pictures with him. Then
as He moved into the car, He raised both His hands in a smiling benediction for all. There
were gasps of delight from everyone who saw the beautiful scene. It was 7:30pm when Swami
retired into Yajur mandir.
The 11th of November saw a sort of repeat of the previous day in the sense that Swami came out
at the same 10:30am or so and after a brief stint with the installed idols, made His way to
the grounds. The grand stage looked wonderful once the supporting scaffolding was removed. It
looked so inviting that it will not be a surprise if very soon Swami ascends the stage once
again to do the final checks. Swami then moved back into Yajur mandir.
The evening saw the continuation of the talks on the Bhagawatham. Swami came for darshan at
about 5:15pm and took the detour that the narrow passage after the Primary school block
afforded Him. He came on stage and the priests did the brief ceremony. Swami blessed one of
the priests to introduce the speaker of the day. He did so with such force and vigour
beginning with the glory of Lord Sai that one who doesn't understand could have very much
mistaken him to be the speaker of the evening! The speaker today was Garikapati Narasimha Rao,
a renowned scholar and excellent orator. He spoke to an enthralled crowd for about an hour and
fifteen minutes. Though the speaker was excellent and flawless in his rendition, it was only
Swami's presence that kept the entire crowd in order. There is the scientific law of entropy
that states that with passage of time, the randomness or disorderliness increases unless
energy is spent to maintain order. But in the Divine presence, this law gets reversed. With
passage of time, more and more orderliness sets in and perfect unity and harmony gets achieved
at that too apparently effortlessly! But that just speaks of Swami as the greatest generator
of godly energy! This got demonstrated when Swami went briefly into the interview room. People
started getting up and relaxing their muscles and moving around a bit maybe to refresh the
blood circulation in their tired legs! Some even began to get up and file out. Five minutes
later, Swami arrived and then it was all back to perfect order! It must be said that the
speaker did a really fantastic job and narrated the Bhagawatham from Pareekshith's curse and
dilemma till the Varaha Avatar of Lord Vishnu. The talk was peppered with examples from day to
day life and sprinkled liberally with humour. For instance, the speaker said that worries were
like Government buses - they arrive 5-6 in a row and after that for the next 3-4 hours there
are none! So when in worry remember that trouble free days are coming soon. Its a pity that
each language has its own unique specialty that cannot be properly translated into other
languages! It suffices to say that it was a Telugu person's delight to hear Sri Narasimha
Garu.
At the end of his speech, at about 6:45pm, Swami materialised a beautiful gold necklace for
him and lovingly put it around his neck. He also blessed him with silk clothes - dhoti and
angavastram. The Aarthi to Swami and the idols were simultaneously performed and Swami
blessing everyone retired for the day.
This evening, the seven day Bhagavatha Saptaham got underway at Prasanthi Nilayam. In the
morning, Swami came to Sai Kulwant Hall at 10.30 and the icon of Venugopala Swami kept onstage
was consecrated with Pujas by the priests from Tirupati. Swami then went to the Stadium before
returning to Yajur Mandir. In the evening, Bhagawan arrived in Sai Kulwant Hall at 5.10 pm,
and after a full round of Sai Kulwant Hall in His chair, once again moved through the ladies'
side, picking up ladies and telling them to be seated on the verandah. When He reached the
mandir, He asked these ladies to move to the Bhajan Hall. He entered the Bhajan Hall and
interacted with them, and asked for some more ladies to be called. Soon, all the ladies from
overseas were making a beeline for the Bhajan Hall. Bhagawan blessed more than 250 of them
with sarees, granting them padanamaskar and a moment of interaction, for nearly an hour. He
then came onstage, where the Saptaham was to commence. The priests did a brief ceremony and
Swami moved across the stage to observe the Idol. After a short introduction in Telugu,
Brahmasri Dr. Nagaphani Sharma took the stage with his Bhagavatha narration. Interspersed with
songs and poems, the scholar described the glory of Sai in mellifluous Telugu for an hour.
After the oration, it was 7.30 pm when Swami accepted Arati and returned to His residence.
Photos: Saturday,
November 8, 2008 & Sunday, November 9, 2008 "Akhanda Bhajans"
Saturday, November
8, 2009
Sunday,
November 9, 2008 "Akhanda Bhajans"
Saturday, November 8, 2008 & Sunday, November 9, 2008 "Akhanda
Bhajans" If at all we get a chance to rise and travel with the sun
along its perennially westward journey, we will find that the second weekend in the winter
month of November is something very special. As the sunset time gets due, the primeval sound -
the Omkara - resounds marking the beginning of the 24 hour long Akhanda Bhajans. As we move
along westward into the later time zones of the world, more and more nations join this
activity of devotion, peace and love till a point when the whole world is reverberating with
the divine name. This practice which began as a small stream of singing at a senior devotee's
house in Bangalore has today gathered momentum into a massive river of devotion worldwide
surging towards the tranquil ocean that the Lord is.
It was about 5pm IST when Swami entered the Kulwant hall for the darshan rounds. He took the
detour after the Primary School blaock to enter the Bhajan Hall where a lovely large lamp had
been prepared. This is the lamp that Swami would light to mark the beginning of the global
Akhanda Bhajan. Swami inspected it and He was shown the various fittings that would be added
on soon to the lamp to make it taller and grander. He also examined the wicks and satisfied
that all was fine, moved out to the stage.
What happened there was something so special that maybe we could also term today as the "Kalpavriksha
Day"! Swami sat out listening to the Veda chanting that was on. The Rudram was soon completed
and the Purushasuktam was beginning. Swami called the Vedam tutorial teacher and in a spurt
told him that Swami's wish was that all learn the Purushasuktam as well. He, on his part,
assured Swami that all the students and staff would begin efforts in earnest towards that
direction. Swami then called the boy in front who was holding up a tray. He spoke to him and
blessed him by sprinkling the holy Akshatha grains on his head. As is the practice, when Swami
calls one of the boys with the tray, it is assumed that He has called the other "tray boys"
too. So, one by one, the boys started to move to Swami and Swami blessed them all. He spoke a
few words to some, listened to a lot of words from many(!) and granted the twin joys of an
Akshatha shower and a padanamaskar to all. The grace-hungry are a huge number and even Swami
seemed a bit startled as about 25-30 boys came upto Him with trays! Though He jocularly asked
once, "How many boys!!?", He ensured that every boy returned with a heart full of satisfaction
and joy.
Then began the part two of the "Kalpavriksha Day" celebrations as we have chosen to term it!
Swami called one of the boys in the front who was holding a letter. He took the letter and
went through it and spoke a few words of advice to him. Another boy meanwhile decide to play
his chances and moved to Swami along with the first boy and he too gave a letter. Swami simply
smiled at him and took his letter and spoke to him too. Emboldened by this response another
boy and then yet another moved to Swami. And again from His side, it was the same response.
With smiles on their faces, the boys slowly made sort of a line that was headed to the Lord
and Swami too noticed that from the corner of His eye and merely smiled. And so from 5:20pm
till almost 6:00 pm, boys kept moving to Swami handing over their letters of gratitude, love,
prayers and petitions and Swami satisfied each and everyone. The whole block now resembled a
river that was flowing on to become a waterfall as all the boys converged to join the stream
that was headed towards Swami and bliss! As the time became 5:55pm, the boy sitting next to
Swami "reminded" Him that He was due to light the lamp at 6:00pm. At that time, Swami sweetly
said, "Only 5 minutes left now." That acted as a prod for all to go quickly to Him and offer
letters. It was seconds before 6:00pm that Swami moved into the bhajan hall and gently lit the
beautiful lamp as the Aumkaram began.
Swami sat for about an hour listening and keeping beat for the bhajans. The boys and girls, as
usual, alternated in singing the bhajans. It was about 7pm when Swami left for Yajur mandir.
The 9th morning saw Swami coming out for darshan at about 9:20 am after a plethora of "Aao"
bhajans as they are called had been sung. These are bhajans which request and plead with the
Lord to come and bless all with His darshan. Swami cut through after the Primary school block.
However, He moved to the stage and sat outside and everyone assembled in the hall had
beautiful darshan. Singing the name as we see the form is a sublimely uplifting experience.
And that experience was conferred on the thousands gathered in Kulwant hall. Soon after that,
Swami moved into the bhajan hall where there were quite a few people who had spent the whole
night singing the divine glories of God. He sat through 6-7 bhajans after which He very
sweetly excused Himself! He then left for the Institute Auditorium where the students were
rehearsing for the Convocation drama.
Swami takes keen interest especially in the Convocation drama and though it is performed in
His presence on the 22nd of November, He sees through every aspect of the drama right from the
script writing to the acting and costumes. As always, the devotees from Kulwant hall and other
places in Puttaparthi made a beeline towards the car to glimpse their beloved Lord as He drove
by. Swami was welcomed into the auditorium by the Vice Chancellor, the principal and the
controller of examinations. All the boys lined up the path through which Swami entered. Swami
signaled to them to go on stage and begin the drama.
It is on an apologetic note that the updating on the sequence of the drama and Swami's
specific reactions have to be reserved to preserve the suspense of the drama! However some
points can be divulged. Swami watched the drama with rapt attention. Speaking to the warden
who sat beside Him, Swami enquired into the various roles and characters on stage. There was a
scene from the Ramayana which was very apt to the situation and it evoked very positive
response from Swami. He was absolutely touched. All the various songs that were part of the
drama were sung live by the students. Swami gave feedback on the drama to the warden and asked
for it to be trimmed at certain points to make it crisp. After watching for 50 minutes, Swami
blessed all and said that it was time to leave. As Swami moved towards the car, all the
students crowded around Him and sought blessings. Chocolates were blessed to be distributed to
all. As He came out of the auditorium, the Institute brass band struck up the National Anthem.
It was played beautifully and listening to that, Swami left for the mandir and moved into
Yajur mandir.
Meanwhile the bhajans continued in the mandir and as the evening drew close, more and more
people thronged the mandir premises. The prasadam to be distributed at the end of the bhajan
session was also carried in or wheeled into the Kulwant hall. The rows of vessels holding
tamarind rice and the laddoos were placed neatly at the Northern end of the hall. It was about
4:45pm, when Swami came out once again. He moved through the ladies and then took a detour
towards the Northern gate where all the prasadam had been kept. He blessed them and then
surveyed all the preparations done for the distribution. Turning back, He moved towards the
mandir again and near the gents side took another detour. Now this detour was something that
pleased all the gents as it meant that Swami was coming towards them. After a gap of many
days, Swami was going through this path and naturally there was a rejoicing. Swami took a
complete round as if rewarding all for whatever efforts they had put in for the Akhanda
bhajan.
The evening was characterized by Swami moving in and out of the bhajan hall. He moved through
the central aisle in the bhajan hall and also through the upper and lower porticos in the
mandir. He sat out for a while collecting a few letters and granting darshan. Nobody could
have complained of not having darshan. The tempo and enthusiasm levels of the bhajans went up
as the conclusion time arrived. At about 5:55pm, Swami asked a pair of boys in the front to
sing the Sree Raghavam aalaap bhajan. Everyone expected that with that bhajan the 24 hour
session would culminate. But sensing another minute and an opportunity remaining, the girls
began in full speed, "Namah Parvati Pataye Hara Hara". Swami saw that and smiled. After a
while, He told the boys with puckered lips that the girls took the opportunity and they are
concluding. A total of more than 400 bhajans had been sung and according to one student, the
exact number stands at 424! With that bhajan, Aarthi began.
The last stanza where the tempo picks up was marked by resounding clapping and vociferous
singing. Swami also asked all to sing the "Samastha Loka Sukhino Bhavanthu" is a very loud
voice and all were only too happy to oblige. Swami then sprinkled water over the vessels
holding the prasadam and blessed them to be distributed. When a boy started serving the boys
immediately, Swami told him that ladies must be first and so the prasadam must be kept on the
other side for serving to the ladies! The prayer, "Bhrahmaarpanam" was then done after which
everyone began to eat in the divine presence on the divine command.
Swami then moved out of the bhajan hall and surveyed the food being served to the Primary
school children. They too began to chant the prayer and so sweetly at that too! It was a high
pitched one and Swami sat sweetly swaying to the chants. As they completed, Swami told them
all to begin eating. Then He slowly moved through the ladies side and blessed the Anantapur
students who were seated there. Finally, leaving all with full hearts and quickly filling
bellies(!) Swami retired into Yajur mandir.
A lot of Rudram chanting and learning is going on in Puttaparthi and all around the globe too.
Thats what happens when anything receives patronage from God Himself! Today, Swami added
something very special to the "incentives list" of this "patronage package". It was the
fulfillment of a promise that had been made at the very beginning of the Rudram tutorials -
Swami had said," I will personally give prizes to those who learn the Rudram well." As per His
command, 150 members from the staff and students of the Sathya Sai university and the Central
Trust who were well versed in the Rudram, sat in the mandir portico by 8:00 am.
Swami had said that He would distribute dhoties and angavastrams to all of them. There was an
air of eager anticipation and the atmosphere seemed charged. But come 9:00 am, the bhajans
began. Grama Seva, that had already begun few days back, was continuing and all the other
students left for serving their respective villages. The bhajans also concluded eventually and
the special 150 people a few hours ago were the only 150 people now. At about 11:30 am, giving
added emphasis and meaning to the statement, "God's delays are not His denials", Swami came
out of Yajur Mandir in the car. The cream of the Veda chanting students comprised the 150
seated and so there was a literal Vedic blast of the Rudram. There were no mikes, but the
spirited spirits of the energetic youth pining for the Lord more than compensated for that.
Click to enlarge
Photos
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Swami came to the portico and then had the Dhoties brought. To the delightful amazement of
all, Swami was gifting His very own brand new silk dhoties to all! Everyone felt a surge of
thrill and as the Rudram chants continued to eclipse any other sound vibrations in the
vicinity, Swami began to call the boys one by one and hand delivered the bundles of silken
joy. As He was distributing, He opened up many of them and asked as to where the Angavastrams
(the cloth put on the upper half of the body) were. He commanded that the Angavastrams too be
distributed to those that had already received the dhoties from His hands. The distribution
went on for about 20 minutes after which Swami sat listening to the chants. It was a really
vibrant feeling to see the Lord amidst the divine chants. As Swami was moving to the
car, there was another chant- this time in English as all cried out, "Thank you Swami!" And
then, in the perfect silence that ensued after that, Swami said in His sweet gentle voice, "I
have the right to give and you have the right to take. Why the thank you?" As He beamed a
smile to the joyous gathering, smiles were beamed back at Him and shouts of "Jai Bolo Bhagawan
Sri Sathya Sai Baba Ki Jai" rented the air.
From the Kulwant hall, Swami moved to the Vidyagiri stadium to check the progress of the stage
being built along with the galleries being extended and the kitchen and bathrooms for the
priests.
In the evening, Swami arrived at about 4:50 pm for the darshan round. As the bhajans were on,
Swami came out and sat on the stage. So many students had letters and they were showing it to
Him. Swami, in the middle of HIs rhythm tapping, signaled to the boys to put down their
letters. But none seemed to obey. They held out with greater desperation and eagerness! After
about 10 minutes, Swami called one boy and taking his letter, opened it. It was an A4 sized
paper and both sides had been filled with writing. Swami had a shocked expression as He asked,
"Why such big letters? Keep writing like mad people. Write only two or three lines enough!"
Blessing the boy nevertheless(!) He once again told towards all the students, "I will not take
letters if you write such big ones!" After a while, one more student was called and Swami
opened it. It was again a huge one! Swami gave that, "see-I-told-you" look and signaled that
He would not take letters. At this point, some of them dropped open the letters to show Swami
that theirs were small letters! Swami just smiled and after a while, He went back into the
bhajan hall.
The Grama Seva programme began on the first of November. Bhagawan arrived at 10.40 am as the
Bhajans went on, and went for a drive. When He returned after half an hour the students
circumambulated the Mandir and left for the Village Service. Yesterday and today, Bhagawan did
not come for morning darshan. So, the students left for grama seva at 8.30 and 9.00 am
respectively, In the evenings, Bhagawan has been coming a few minutes before the Bhajans begin
at five o'clock, sitting for a few minutes onstage, and then moving inside. This morning He also
visited the Hillview Stadium a few minutes before 11 o'clock.
