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Sai Baba Photos & darshan news updates - September 2008
regularly updated with daily darshan news & photos from Prasanthi Nilayam
 

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

October 08 >>

 
Saturday, September 27,2008 Saturday! A welcome day for anyone in any part of the world for it signifies a day which brings to a close the week long activity and acts as a precursor to Sunday. It is also a day when the Kulwant hall gets packed a bit more due to the inflow of devotees from nearby areas and cities during the weekend. It also raises the probability of Swami spending more time outside for He always brings maximum smiles for maximum people isn't it? That first portion is a bit of an ambitious prediction but well we do dare to take that risk!

Swami arrived at about 5:00pm and slowly slid down the ladies side slope. He did not seem keen on collecting letters but He passively kept seeing everything going on The final day of the Veda chanting classes was on and all the students were quite proficient in the Rudram by now. Swami took a detour after the ladies side and moved towards the bhajan hall. The "risk" part of the "prediction" made in the beginning was showing very clearly. Swami had won as He always does! But one thing with the Lord - He loves to win over the devotees, but more than that He loves to lose to their Love, devotion and calling also! He moved through the bhajan hall and after gifting precious proximity to those seated inside, He moved out and with gentle flick of His little finger, indicated that He wanted to turn the 'right' way into the area where all the devotees were seated!

Moving down the veranda slope, Swami made the left turn into the students! He started collecting letters and speaking to a few who rose on their knees with either doubts, problems or gratitude. One immensely significant thing we notice as we hear Swami speaking is that He always is fiercely optimistic and positive! He always sees the brighter side of things and in situations when we feel that there is no bright side to look at, He creates such a side! And we say, "Only God can do that!" But through these acts of continued optimism, Swami is sending a very powerful message. Think and feel only that you would like to see and experience in 'your' world. Is it any wonder that Swami sees only Love, expansion, hope and Faith in His world? Like passing on bad dishes at an eating table, we talk and think about negativities to the extent that they occupy not only the headlines of the newspapers but also create "head-lines" being in the top of our minds always. And then we complain that things are going bad. What we pass around, goes around and comes back to us. So is it not time that we forget the negatives and pass on, think and speak about, only the positives - those that we want to hear, see and experience?

Swami passed by the birthday boys and blessed them. He had a smile on His face and His ear was on the Veda chanting that was on. After passing through the students area in the front, He lent credibility to the "risky prediction" we made in the beginning! HE slowly moved to the ladies side again. Taking a complete round and collecting letters, Swami blessed everyone. Then, taking the path neglected in the first round, Swami moved through the students in the centre of the hall. He then moved into the gents side and on their part, the gents seemed to rise to welcome Him in their midst! Swami thus completed a full darshan round in the second innings! He then moved on stage and blessed the completion of the Veda chanting.

He was informed that everyone had picked up the chanting with His Grace. Swami was satisfied and He blessed the teachers to conclude the session with "Samastha Loka Sukhino Bhavanthu". Swami then sat in perfect poise and silence and the kind of calm and serenity that descended in the hall must be experienced to be believed! He looked at Sri Kishtappa who was standing all the while. (Thats how he looks at Swami always). Swami is God not simply because of the position His devotees give Him, but also because of the position He gives His devotees. He asked for a chair to be given to that devotee so that he could sit with comfort. That was done implicitly and immediately. Swami then nodded in satisfaction and everyone witnessing this divine play couldn't help but feel a portion of that love and concern and express it as smiles. Swami then called the priest who was in the first line and asked him what was the meaning of the Gayatri mantra. He replied, "Swami its a prayer for the illumination of the intellect." As they deliberated on the exact meaning and translation, Swami said, "Bhargo Devasya Deemahe". Then the priest said, "Forgive me Swami but I think it is Bhargo Devasya Deemahi!" Swami smiled at his sweet frankness which we normally might consider as "audacity". Then telling him to return to his place, Swami went into the bhajan hall. Bhajans and Aarthi completed the evening.
 
Thursday, September 25, 2008   The Sri Sathya Sai University, today had important guests visiting. The Vice-Chairman of the University Grants Commission, Mr Mool Chand Sharma and his team of academics had arrived. And so in the afternoon also, they were seated on chairs and they too joined the devotees in the wait for the Lord to arrive. It was about 4:40 pm when Swami arrived for darshan as the Veda chanting classes were on. As the children from the the Primary school had arrived the hall was not only full today but was also complete! It being a Thursday - the holy day decided by Sai - also added to the wholesomeness of the occasion.
 

"Happy Birthday"

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"Shirdi facets"

Speaking on 28th September, 1990; Sri Sathya Sai of Parthi (Prasanthi Nilayam - Puttaparthi) revealed the 28th September 1835; was the birthday of SRI SHIRDI SAI BABA; He added; "In the former Nizam's dominions there was a remote village called PATHRI. In that village there were a couple named GANGABHARADYA and DEAGIRI Amma. They were grieving over their lack of children. In answer to their prayers, a son was born to them on September 28th, 1835. That child was SAI BABA, who completed His Avaatar on VIJAYADASMI day in 1918. The life span of Shirdi SAI avaatar was therefore about 83 years. Read more
 


Swami came down the gentle slope through the ladies side and was welcomed by smiles and salutations. Letters exchanged hands and blessings were blown in all directions by the gentle breeze that had stirred up seemingly to rejoice His arrival! Swami moved from the ladies side to the gents side through the central students' block. Swami blessed all the boys holding trays and then via the Veda chanting group, He moved towards the stage. He materialised vibhuti for a devotee and then came near the Vice-chairman of UGC. He rose from his chair and fell in prostrations to Swami and Swami lovingly patted and blessed him. After a heartfelt exchange of words, Swami came to the stage. All the other members of the UGC team too sought His blessings. Blessing them, and granting padanamaskars, Swami sat on the stage listening to the Veda tutorials that were on. As that got completed, Swami asked for all the students to chant all that they had learnt in the past few days. And so the Rudram began in all fervour and enthusiasm. Everyone were at the top of their spirits and the top of their throats too as they strained to impress Swami with their "vedic knowledge"! Swami too, on His part, kept a vigil and was liberal with appreciative looks to all those who had picked up well! He called many students and accepted letters from them. He called all the birthday boys and blessed them too by sprinkling the holy Akshatha grains. Then came what could be the very special moments of the evening. Swami began spotting those students who were chanting very sincerely and called them to accept letters. There were quite some rice grains that had collected on His lap as He had blessed the birthday boys. Swami picked them up and began sprinkling on all the boys He was calling! They were all so happy and thrilled at this act of special Grace. The rest of the 30-40 minutes, Swami sat with a smile, His hands swaying to some celestial rhythm! Blessed indeed was the day as everyone had the golden opportunity for an hour long darshan. These days when it becomes so difficult to have His darshan, a day like this is indeed a bounty out of His Love and Compassion.

Swami then moved towards the behind door of the bhajan hall. On the way, He received many letters and a privileged few had the opportunity to kiss His feet. Bhajans began soon after and Aarthi was taken at 6:00 pm.

 
Monday, September 22, 2008  - The devotees from the Medak district had also planned a distribution of livelihood items to the poor and needy of their district. And Swami, being one who always encourages service, had graciously permitted the distribution to happen in His divine presence. And thus it was that the materials for distribution like sewing machines, sprayers, bicycles, carpentry kits and so on were arrayed in Sai Kulwant hall this evening. The Vedam tutorial that began at 4:00pm was on as Swami arrived and took a detour straight to the stage before coming to the centre also. Moving on to the stage, Swami blessed the completion of the Vedic chants and then blessed Prof.Anil Kumar to make the introductory remarks and also read out the names of the recipients of the distribution materials.

In his inimitable style, the professor spoke about the wonderful service activities that had been taken up in the district with Love and reverence for the Swami in all. During the course of his speech, he mentioned about a young bread-winner who had a second lease of life thanks to the Super Speciality Hospital here. He needed more than 80,000 Rs for his operation and was at his wits end as to what had to be done. And Swami's hospital at Parthi ensured a wonderful happy ending to what could have been another tragic story of dwindling health due to lack of finances. It is said that familiarity breeds neglect if not contempt. The way that the hospitals run by Swami together have completed more than 30,000 operations completely free of cost is a wonder that makes us drop our jaws and gape in awe. Its not about the quantity or the number but the quality of the treatment and the way it has transformed the lives of these people that is truly so divine and magnificent. Experience the feelings of a drop in this ocean of patients at http://media.radiosai.org/Journals/patient_story_archives/Hospital_Patient_Story_archives.htm

 
         
         
click 2 enlarge   Photos
21 & 22 Sep. 2008

 

 
         
         
         
         
click 2 enlarge Photos
21 & 22 Sep. 2008


 The narrative was very touching and as it was completed, Swami asked, "Where is he now?" And so on the PA system the announcement was made,"Mr.Sathyanarayan, please come to the stage!" And there, embedded in the crowd, a solitary figure rose and stood in a sort of confused manner till the security personnel escorted him to the stage. He stood near Swami barely able to speak, and as his blank face showed, barely able to think also! Swami waved His hand and creating a beautiful gold chain, put it around Sathyanarayan's neck. The overwhelmed devotee bowed down to His feet and Swami lovingly raised him and patted his cheeks. There was a thunderous applause. The magic of Love is such that it thrills everyone - the Giver, the receiver and the audience alike. The grateful and dazed patient slowly made his way back to his place. Midway, he was intercepted and the devotees gave him a place right in the front to sit! Its always true that once you win the Love of the Lord, the whole world will seem to give preferential treatment to you! The speech went on for a few more minutes where the speaker described the spiritual sadhana taken up by the devotees before this pilgrimage and about the water project that Swami had set up at Medak. After that, he began to read out the names of the worthy recipients.

As the names were read out, the devotees came forward and accepted the gift after reverentially offering a rose to Swami. And thus, cycles, grinders, sewing machines, iron boxes, carpentry kits were distributed. It is heartening to note that all the recipients had also received training for some weeks prior to their trip and thus were skilled at using the equipment being given to them. One of them wanted to desperately touch Swami's feet. He made a plea and then went to Swami and had his heart's desire fulfilled. After the distribution, Swami permitted a musical programme - the same group that had performed yesterday. And thus He kept up His promise. They sang popular Telugu songs which everyone enjoyed. There were two main singers among the gents and two among the ladies. They sang for about 35 minutes and after that, Swami gifted them with sarees and Safari pieces. Then receiving Aarthi, Swami retired for the day.
***  Also read Prasanthi Bulletin 22nd Sep.:  Materials for distribution like sewing machines, sprayers, bicycles, carpentry kits and so on were arrayed in Sai Kulwant hall this evening. The devotees from Medak had arranged for these items to be given to deserving needy people. Bhagawan arrived as the Vedam tutorial went on, and once He came onstage, the class came to a close and Prof. Anil Kumar took the stage to introduce the distribution function. In his speech, he mentioned a young bread-winner who had a second lease of life in the Super Specialty Hospital here. Bhagawan called up the young man and blessed him with a chain. By 5.20, the distribution of items came to a close, and a music programme was arranged. Half an hour of popular Telugu songs followed. Swami accepted Arati at six o'clock before returning to His residence.

 
Sunday, September 21, 2008

Props had risen up in the marble blocks of the Sai Kulwant hall. Little boys holding flags stood in front of them to welcome Swami. That is almost a penance these children do. Every time when there is a programme by the children from a district in Andhra Pradesh, the basic stage framework is almost the same and it inevitably has children holding banners and flags, standing and waiting for the Lord's arrival. At 4:00pm, the regular daily Vedam classes began. It was around 4:25pm when Swami came out for the darshan rounds. Swami moved through in His natural sweet and graceful manner. As He passed by the props, He seemed to carefully study every bit of it. His eye for detail and perfection has not changed one bit.


More photos above

Today also happened to be the concluding day of the Cardiac conference being held in the Super Specialities hospital. This conference held in collaboration with the Indian Association of Cardio-Thoracic Surgeons boasted of the best surgeons in the world giving live demonstrations.. Notable among them was Dr.Valluvan Jeevanandam. A few words about the man will not be out of place here. Dr. Jeevanandam has a special interest in treating patients traditionally considered inoperable. He has repaired damaged hearts in several patients awaiting transplant, enabling those patients to forgo transplantation. He also has successfully performed transplants involving patients who do not fit the standard criteria for transplant.

Dr. Jeevanandam is a pioneer in the field of mechanical circulatory assist devices. In October 2000, he was the first surgeon in the world to successfully implant the CardioVad, a revolutionary, permanent circulatory assist device that boosts heart function in patients with severe heart failure who are not candidates for transplant. And most importantly he feels that the future of health care is in the way Swami's hospitals function. In his own words,

"After being given the privilege and honor of working at the SSSIHMS many times, my answer to all questions is unequivocal - not only is patient care absolutely superb, but this institution is unmatched by any other in the world. If my experiences are any indication, SSSIHMS is truly a Temple of Healing. Not only is there treatment for the patient, but there is also the 'Presence' of the Caregiver as well. Everyday now, I spiritually give Him my patients and He takes care of them - I am an extension of His Hands and just do the duty that Swami has put me on this earth for."

All the participants had seated in front and Swami blessed them accepting letters and speaking a few words - words which mean the world to the recipient - to some of them. It was a wonderful sight. Great surgeons and 'aspiring-to-be-great-surgeons' taking the blessings of Dhanvantari Himself! Swami moved on to the stage where the other surgeons too sought and received His blessings. Swami then sat on the stage and presided over the classes.

After the completion, Swami asked for the drama to be staged. The coordinators came up to Swami and offered flowers and the details of the programme. Swami blessed the district president with a gold chain. It all happened so simply that the president was just dumbstruck. With a sweet smile, Swami put the chain to his neck and blessed him by placing His hand over his head. Then minister Ms.Gita Reddy and another lady moved to the stage and offered the program at His lotus feet. Swami accepted groundnuts that they offered and quickly popped one into His outh too. That act was followed by a gentle smile which was actually a reflection of all the smiles that beamed at His act. Swami blessed a marble Shivalingam and silver padukas that were brought for His blessings. All the office bearers made most of the opportunity as they fell at His feet joyfully. Then after a brief introduction, the programme began.

The drama, based on real life incidents, centred around a young man, Bheeshma who has been inspired by Swami's Love and teachings. He acts as the center of serenity, peace and harmony in his village. Being young in age, he still displays admirable maturity and conscientious thinking. He inspires the children of the village to go Godward. He wins the respect of the elders and inspires them to work together and build a much needed bridge without any external help.

When some of the foreign-resident members of the village arrive there with ideas of constructing factories to exploit the natural resources, he transforms them to construct a school and hospital instead. Having done all this, he says that he has to move on and share the wonderful Love he has received from Swami with people in all other villages too.
The drama had its share of dances. Little boys and girls performed with sweet synchronisation and devoted dexterity to highlight the points the 'hero' of the drama was making.

The grand finale song was the theme song shall we say and its first line was "Sai Rama Nauka". The dance featured a boat being rowed by the hero and the lilting melody was one that would transport the listeners to a traditional sleepy village. The tune itself was so relaxing and refreshing.

The drama concluded and all the participants came forward into the final formation. Swami called out for a little boy and patting him asked, "Whats your name?" He replied, "Aravind." Swami smiled and blessing him, told him to return to his place in the formation. Swami then moved down and sat amidst all the children. He told them to come close and cluster. When that was done, a beautiful group picture was the result.

As Swami moved up the stage, HE granted permission for a music programme too. The time was already 6:05 pm and it was indeed an act of Grace that Swami decided to shower love on the singers. Since it was a programme that Swami scheduled on the spot, the singers and artistes had a difficult time trying to move ahead and tune their instruments.

Then, Swami so understandingly went into the interview room for 5 minutes! That gave them sufficient time to arrange everything and get ready. Immediately, Swami came out, a smile dancing on His beautiful lips.

The performers - a vocalist, violinist, keyboard player, a tablist and chorus singers among the ladies comprised the team. After they sang two songs, Swami blessed them and promised another opportunity the next day. It had already got quite late and Swami recieved Aarthi after blessing the prasadam to be distributed to one and all.

There was a plethora of Aarthis performed today and that was also a wonderful sight. Camphor and the holy fire was being waved from all sides. The fact here is that anything done in the Lord's presence becomes so wonderful because He is the source of all that wonder and grandeur! Swami asked them, one by one, to place the Aarthi plates down and then retired to Yajur Mandiram.

Saturday, September 20, 2008

This evening, Bhagawan arrived during the Vedam tutorial at 4.30 pm. After His darshan round, He came onstage, and in a few minutes, the class for the day concluded. Swami asked the two singers who were teaching the Vedam to sing the bhajan 'Ram Hare Hari Nam Bolo' with aalaap standing onstage. After that, He asked an Iranian student of the Primary School to chant the Rudram. After blessing the boy, Swami came into the Bhajan Hall for Bhajans to commence at 5.45 pm. After a couple of Bhajans, Swami asked for the 'Mohabbat ki kami' quawwali and as it concluded, left for His residence accepting Arati.

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Another beautiful Thursday dawned in the international hamlet, Puttaparthi. Thousands had arrived from the Northern states of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. It has now become a kind of timetable schedule, with devotees from the different places arriving in a manner that the pilgrimage dates do not clash and thus all are assured of the precious proximity to Swami. Swami had agreed for a programme by the youth from these states and a huge backdrop of the Ganges bathing ghat stood in the centre of the hall. As per the regular schedule, the Veda chanting class for Rudram began at 4:00 pm and was going on when Swami arrived at about 4:20 pm.
 
       
       
       
 
   
       


Moving in the chair through the ladies side, Swami reached the centre. He seemed to be intrigued by the backdrop that had been erected. He studied it as He passed by. The previous day, Swami had not moved through the gents side. And so, as He entered the gents side of the hall, all of them were so happy and excited. Like bees getting attracted to a rose, they seemed to be buzzing all around the orange robed figure. Swami bestowed Abhayahasta and seemed to be making a sort of futile attempt to calm down the devotees! Moving through the students, Swami collected letters and blessed the boys holding trays. As soon as He moved to the stage, Swami said that the coaching was enough for the day. The teaching students took padanamaskar and returned to their places and then Swami sat in the silence that prevailed.

It is amazing how His mere presence has such a soothing and calming effect on everyone present. The 10,000 strong crowd sat in a serene silence and all the 20,000 eyes were riveted on Swami. It was after a few moments of blissful silence that Swami asked for the programme to begin as soon as He returns from the interview room. As Swami went in, the performance area was cleared. The actors got ready. Swami came out soon enough and then the programme began. A few actors moved up front and opened a huge scroll which Swami read with a smile for about a minute or so. Then receiving His blessings and padanamskar, the lads returned to start the drama.

The drama was based on the secret behind the Sai Avatars. It was entitled "Sai Avataran Rahasya". It showed a modern youth very disturbed, coming up to his saintly uncle with doubts. The uncle offers him sage counsel along the lines of the teachings of Sathya Sai Baba. Very intr
igued and interested in knowing more about Swami, the lad asks his uncle about the same. Narrating the story of how Swami suffered a paralytic attack and cured it during the Guru Purnima of 1963, the uncle narrates the story of how Swami as Lord Shiva promised sage Bharadwaja of three advents into his clan. When the sage visits Kailas to request an audience with the Lord, he sees Shiva and Parvati engaged in the cosmic dance. Mother Parvati smiles at him and he mistakes it as mockery. As he is leaving, he suffers a paralytic stroke on the left half of his body. Lord Shiva then revives him and tells him that his suffering of the stroke was a blessing in disguise. He confers the boon of being born in his lineage, not once but thrice. In the second advent as Sathya Sai, the left side of His body signifying the Shakti or Parvati aspect would suffer a stroke for exactly the same time as sage Bharadwaja waited, i.e. 7 days. The drama then cocluded with all the children coming front and forming the Sarva dharma symbol that Swami has gifted the world.

The drama concluded and Swami asked so sweetly, "Drama over?" He makes such a perfect audience. Always asks, "Is it over already?" as He is so engrossed. Many times, we humans do not enjoy things because we have expectations and keep judging the performance. As someone beautifully put it, "if you judge, you just do not have time to Love." We can safely add the corollary that when you Love, there is not a moment free where you can judge. And Swami is always so engrossed for He sees the sincerity and effort. God sees the efforts and so whether it's a fantastic performance or an average one, they are the same for Him as long as the efforts have been put in. Not so for humans. We judge everything by results forgetting the fact that many things that we ourselves have learnt in our lives is because of the encouragement and support that our efforts (and not our results) have received!

Swami called the actor "Bharadwaja" to come up to Him. He materialised a gold chain and gave it to him. His hair and beard were so copious that Swami could not put the chain around his neck! Swami then asked what was "Parvati's" name! He said that the drama was fully based on Parvati! Calling 'her' Swami created another beautiful gold chain with a pendant for the lad who did that role! Swami then wanted Shiva, Parvati and sage Bharadwaja to pose for photos with Him. The three were overjoyed and after that, Shiva fell at Swami's feet. It was such a poignant and beautiful sight! Swami then called the videographer and told him, "I will come down and pose for photos." Swami then moved down the stage and with a beatific smile posed with the lads. As it always happens, after the session, all of them took the opportunity to fall at His feet and speak a few words with Him. After that, Swami moved up the stage and blessed prasadam to be distributed to all. He also asked them to sing bhajans which they did. After two bhajans, Swami received Aarthi and left. Sai Baba in Media: "Nagarjuna Construction Company (NCC) founder-chairman AVS Raju has set a new Guinness world record by writing the largest single volume biography on the life of Sri Satya Sai Baba between 1996 and 2007." The single bound book consists of 32 separate volumes. source: www.expressbuzz.com
 

Friday, September 12, 2008

Bhagawan was escorted into Sai Kulwant Hall at 9.40 am in a procession this Onam morning, led by a band by Srisailam school students and Vedam chanting children. After a full round of the Hall in His chair, Swami sat onstage as the Vedic hymns were chanted and the Panchavadyam troupe played. At 10 o'clock, songs by the devotees commenced. After half an hour of songs, Bhagawan accepted Arati. After that, He spoke to a couple of students and asked them to sing the Bhajans 'Sri Raghunandana' and 'Ram Hare' with alap. He spoke to Prof. Mukundan and asked him to announce the programme for the evening. It was 11 o'clock when Swami returned to His residence.
Onam- Discourse   -  Onam Celebrations, 11-12 Aug 2008, Videos
 

Onam Celebrations

Procession and Music Concert,  September 12, 2008 -Morning
 

Onam Celebrations, 11-12 Aug. 08, Videos

 

Speech, Divine Discourse and "Savitri - The Embodiment of Shakthi", a skit by Balvikas Children

September 12, 2008

Evening

 


In the evening, the Vedam tutorial commenced at four o'clock as instructed by Bhagawan. As the chanting went on line by line, Swami arrived at 4.15 and went on a full round in His chair. Once He reached onstage, He asked Prof Mukundan to announce the programme for the evening. A student from Sri Sathya Sai Vidyapeeth, Srisailam, spoke briefly before Bhagawan stood up to deliver His Onam message. Swami praised the sacred land of Kerala and the devoted Keralites. He narrated the story of Mahabali and Vamana, concluding by mentioning the Savitri drama to be staged as the next programme. Balvikas children of Alappuzha district presented the Savitri drama at 5.30 pm. Swami blessed the participants with clothes and a group photograph, and asked for Bhajans to commence at 6.10 pm once He returned onstage. Prasadam was distributed and Bhagawan accepted Arati ten minutes later before returning to Yajur Mandir.



Thursday, September 11, 2008

It was 3:45pm when Swami came out for darshan rounds. Many were taken by pleasant surprise for Swami usually comes out nowadays at after 4:00pm. Swami completed the rounds quickly and then moved on stage. He asked for the Veda chanting classes to begin. He said that come rain or shine, the classes must proceed and all must make efforts to learn the Namakam. And so, the class began and as it went on, Swami went into the interview room.

Soon He came out and once the lessons for the day had been completed, He asked all the students to get up and clear the area for the drama to begin. This was a fantastic scene. There is very little space even to walk as all sit huddled and close with the desire of maximum divine proximity. At the same time, when Swami tells to get up and clear the area, everyone does it with the greatest enthusiasm, for is that too not a chance to directly follow His command? However, as these two feelings combine, the apparent confusion it creates is hilarious at times! And Swami sits enjoying every bit of it. As the students cleared the area, Swami once again went into the interview room. He asked for the programme to begin. On His return after a few minutes, He sat watching the proceedings.
 

         
         
Photos 11th Sep.08 Sai Baba Video update:  - SBOI
Onam Celebrations, 11-12 Aug. 08, Videos


The drama that was being performed was derived from the immortal epic, Ramayana. Its focus seemed to be on three characters whose lives were intertwined since birth - Rama, Lakshmana and Hanuman. While Lakshmana was born of Kausalya's portion of the potion given to Sumitra, Hanuman too was born of the same potion which an eagle carried away and dropped in his mother's hands. The drama opened with the incident where Rama is so happy that Lakshmana won the game but Lakshmana is crying because Rama had lost the game purposely in his favour. Rama is the apple of the eye of every queen. Seeing this scene, the Lord's eyes brimmed with tears. Seeing Swami at such times is such a revealing experience. Nobility has the power to arouse the pure heart very easily.

Fast forward to the trio of Rama, Lakshmana and Sita in the forest. Rama tells Lakshmana to set up a hut in the place of his choice. This brings Lakshmana into tears! He asks, "Oh brother! What do you mean by the place which I like? My likes are exactly whatever You like. Dont you know that?" That sort of brotherly Love existed between them. Once again fast forward to the search for Mother Sita. Lord Rama places all his faith in Hanuman. It showed so beautifully that the amount of faith the Lord has in His devotee is the reflection of the faith that the devotee has in the Lord! Hanuman completes the mission successfully by meeting Sita, conveying her Lord's message to her and then strikes terror into the hearts of the demons. Vibhishana comes over and surrenders to Rama. And Rama accepts him wholeheartedly saying that He will give refuge to anyone who asks for it irrespective of any distinctions.

The drama concluded with the famous pearl necklace incident where Hanuman breaks Mother Sita's gift to him saying that it is worthless as none of the pearls chanted Rama's name! When the courtiers think that it is the monkey in him manifesting, he plucks out a hair from his body and the resonant name of Rama is heard. The drama closure took place in the grand palace. As all the participants gathered in a formation, Swami sat watching them and smiling. He told the two Ramas and two Sitas to come in the front separately. Then He moved down and stood amidst them posing for group photos. He patted many a child and said, "Very nice drama, very nice drama." Then He had sarees and white pant-shirt pieces distributed to all the participants. Prasadam also followed very soon. As all this was going on, singers from Kerala began bhajans. The bhajans were in a different style in the fact that they had portions which only the lead singer would sing and those demonstrated his hold over the ragas and they also had portions which gave a chance for all the following devotees to sing out and vent their devotion and Love! After two bhajans, Swami received Aarthi. He sat through the entire Aarthi on the stage itself.

Swami was so happy with the drama that He called the Kerala state president and using him as a translator for Malayalam said," I am very happy with this drama. This drama gets first prize. The dialogues, script, acting, role selection and dresses were all very good. The people who have trained the children have also done a fantastic job. When I come to Kerala, I will surely stay in your school. And when I come I will come walking! Sita especially did very wonderfully. She performed with a lot of feelings." At this time, very understandably, the girl who had donned Sita's role broke down and let a free flow of tears. That started tears from almost all the other actors' eyes too. Swami immediately said, "One should not cry! Swami is overwhelmed with joy and so all of you should also smile and not cry!"

Leaving all in a state of great satisfaction and happiness Swami retired for the day.

 

 
Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Today marked the beginning of the three day  festival of Onam. Onam is the biggest festival in the Indian state of Kerala and it falls during the Malayali month of Chingam (Aug - Sep) marking the homecoming of the legendary King Mahabali. The carnival of Onam lasts for ten days and brings out the best in Kerala culture and tradition. Intricately decorated Pookalam (design with flowers), ambrosial Onasadya (the traditional feast), breathtaking Chundanvellams (Snake Boats) racing through placid waters and the exotic Kaikottikali dance are some of the most remarkable features of Onam - the harvest festival in Kerala. Most importantly, wherever the Malayali people are located, they return home for the festival. And it is this homecoming that sees thousands of devotees from Kerala flock the abode of highest peace at Puttaparthi.
 
  Photos 10th Sep. 2008  


A central stage had been set up in the marble block in which the acting area had been demarcated with flowers. The sets were in place and wonderfully costumed children sat awaiting the Lord's arrival. The staging area however had been filled with students. Swami came out for darshan at around 4:35pm. He was all smiles and so were the devotees. To see Swami is really a very special feeling. But that feeling seems to get enhanced especially when you see Him on a day that you consider as very special. And so, while the people in Kerala waited in eager anticipation for their king Mahabali, the Kerala devotees in Puttaparthi were welcoming the Lord Vamana Himself!

Swami moved through the ladies side and coming to the centre saw the elaborate stage that had been set up. Seeing the tiny tots seated in regal costumes, the smile on His face widened. He asked them, "Are you doing drama?" All He got for a reply was hesitant and cute nods from a few kids and absolutely blank looks from the others! Smiling to Himself, Swami moved on. As He moved through the gents side, which experiences greater freedom for devotion due to the looser rope of discipline being imposed on them, the devotees rose to various heights to catch a glimpse of Him. On His part Swami blessed all of them and His hands kept moving up and down, reassuring and calming them. Moving through the students area, Swami finally came on to the stage. He asked all the students to clear the performance area so that the drama could immediately begin. He called the Kerala state president and asked him to introduce the program.

The Balvikas students from Kerala would be performing a dance drama called "Dashavataaram". As that announcement was made, "microscopically" (!) tiny children came forward with flowers to present to Swami! Swami also seemed to be amazed at how little the children were. Full marks to the children for the exemplary discipline they exhibited and that discipline seemed to invite Swami to interact more with them. Swami blessed them and then told them to return to their place which they did so in the most reverential manner. Then the programme began. It turned out to be more of dance and less of drama - a wonderful proposition when it comes to the children from Kerala who seemed to have learnt dance even before they were born!

The programme traced all the 10 avatars of MahaVishnu. Each avatar was introduced by the dance and then made its brief appearance. The avatar was then celebrated with another dance. The dances were such a pleasing sight and musically so rich and resonant. The choreography was perfect and it was incredible to think that children so small were capable of feats so big! The Matsya (fish), Kurma (tortoise) and Varaha (boar) Avatars were well depicted with 'manimals" shall was say! That is, people in disguise as a fish, tortoise and boar were seen on the backstage. The story of the Narasimha Avatar (half man- half lion) was briefly depicted and the actor donning the role of Hiranyakashyapu performed superlatively. The significance of Onam and some of the festivities were beautifully depicted as the Vamana Avatar came onstage. The Prashurama and Rama Avatar arrived together and the greatest devotee Hanuman too got his share of the 'limelight'. The tiny toddling Krishna won everyone's heart with his sheer presence on the scene! He looked so sweet and cute. The famous episode between of Krishna enriching Sudama's life in every way was depicted. Then going the Buddha, the programme turned to Swami.

Swami went briefly to the interview room and returned having arranged for sarees which He wanted to gift the children with. On His way back, He stopped for a minute at the bhajan hall. Representatives of the students working in Central Trust were seated there. Swami, in all Love, had granted everyone bonuses and hikes in salaries and they expressed gratitude to Him. Swami blessed them and told them, "Continue whatever you are doing in the same way. Thats enough for me!"

He arrived at the stage and asked for the children to arrange themselves in a compact manner so that He would pose for group photos with them. As the boys and girls seated themselves separately, Swami moved down from the stage and posed for photographs with the children. He then asked for sarees to be brought. He personally gave all the girls sarees and along with each saree came a free smile too! The same procedure followed with the boys too, only that they were given white cloth pieces. After blessing them thus, Swami moved back to the stage and asked for bhajans to begin. During the bhajans, He blessed prasadam to be distributed. Later, receiving Aarthi and blessing everyone with beautiful smiles, Swami went back to Yajur Mandir.
 

 

Tuesday, September 9,2008  Life with the Lord is always full of novelty and a new freshness. No moment is the same and the fact that the ever-steady Lord is also the ever new is indeed a great mystery. When Swami came out for the darshan rounds at 4:40pm, very few even dreamt of the wonderful gift that Swami had planned for one and all. As far as Swami was concerned, He came out in His usual sweet smiling self. Moving down the slope on the ladies side, He collected letters. One letter seemed to engross Him a lot and He began reading it then and there. By the time He completed reading it, He was already on the marble block in the centre.

Passing by the students, He collected letters and moved into the gents side. Finally, finishing the complete round, Swami went into the interview room. In a few minutes time, He came out and sat in the centrestage. There was a gleam in His eye and everyone seemed to understand that something special was brewing! He called the lead Veda chanters and also asked for the podium and mike to be brought forward. He instructed them and soon the special news was conveyed to one and all over the public address system.

Swami desired that all the students learn to memory the chanting and meaning of the first part of the Sri Rudra Prasnah or the Namakam as it is popularly called. There is a significant point to note here. The Vedas are believed to be birth less and the term originates from the word "vid" meaning knowledge. Initially, the Vedas were not written down and the composers were actually seers, i.e. to say that the chants were revealed as intuitive flashes to all of them. And as Swami says, people falsely mistake that it pertains to Hinduism. It belongs to the Sanatana Dharma (the eternal way of life!).For ages, these chants, basically very powerful and positive vibrations, were simply taught to the disciples along with the pronunciation by vocalization. It is a very spiritual and wholesome prayer to Rudra, sometimes also referred to as Shiva.

 
       
Photos 9th Sep. 2008

First, one of the students thanked Swami for presenting all with this great opportunity to learn in His divine presence. Following that, everyone chanted the Gananaam twa mantra. And then the training began. Swami's desire was that all learn it before His birthday. He also promised in a very inviting manner, "Those who learn very well, I will call personally and reward all the efforts." So, in His presence, the class began. Each line of the first paragraph would be chanted and all would follow twice. Swami sat with a scrutinizing eye looking at every student and checking how well he/she was picking up! This was Vedic teaching in its past pristine glory, in the "Guru-Shishya parampara" as its known. The special difference here was that the Lord sat in the Guru's position! As 25 minutes of 'coaching' elapsed, Swami turned and said, "Thats enough for today." And that too was so sweet about Him. He knows how much syllabus covered can be grasped!


Swami blessed the 'coaches' with padanamaskar and once again said that those who pick up the best would be amply rewarded! From tomorrow onwards, there would be regular half an hour classes in the mandir! Also, to aid this great chance, the Sri Sathya Sai Book Trust plans to present every student with a copy of the Namakam with translation. Swami moved into the bhajan hall and then bhajans began after which Swami moved to Yajur Mandir at about 6:20pm.. Divine directions: "Starting from Yesterday Swami announced that there will be vedam Teaching and Learning daily at 4 PM in the coming days in Kulwant Hall. Swami also announced that all the 10th,11th and 12th Std Students of the Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School, Prasanthi Nilayam and the Students of the University will have to learn the Rudram daily and also chant it to perfection. Swami also wonderfully selected 4 of His students to teach in the Kulwant hall in the Divine Presence everyday. Swami sat yesterday and listened to the teaching learning process of the Rudram. This exercise, as we all understand, is a preparation for the
Celebrations of Sahara Chandra Darsanam in November 15-17th.It is a once in a Lifetime Blessing and Opportunity for the Students and Staff in Prasanthi Nilayam to learn and chant the Sri Rudram in the Divine presence of Our Divya Sai Shiva-Shakthi."

 

Important announcements from Prasanthi Nilayam

Sunday, September 7,2008 Swami did not come for morning Darshan today . In the evening Bhagawan arrived at 4.25. p.m. Swami took a full darshan round and stayed on the verandah interacting with the devotees. At appx. 4.50 p.m. Swami went inside the interview room. The evening Bhajans commenced right on time at 5.30 p.m. Swami accepted the aarti at 6.p.m.  and returned back to His abode

 

Saturday, September 6, 2008 Today morning Swami came shortly after 10.00 a.m. Swami took a full darshan round & after half hour Swami accepted the aarthi & returned back to His abode.  Evening: Devotees from Kadapa district of Andhra had arrived in thousands and they had been permitted to put up their programme today. Wet grinders, sewing machines and iron boxes had been placed for distribution to the poor from Kadapa. It is a very special chance for these people who have to think twice even before getting into a bus whether they have the necessary fare required for even an inter-village journey. The members of the Sai samithis identify such poor and as a token of Swami's Love gift them with articles to carry out their livelihood. And when Swami graciously agrees to Himself gift away those articles in His Divine presence, those people are brought to Parthi so that they too are blessed with the wonderful gift of Grace-Darshan.

Distribution and Cultural Program by Devotees from Kadapa, AP

Talks, Distribution of essential utilities, Musical Dance Ballet entitled,"Annamaya Samajiha Spruha" and Music Programme


Photo slide show by SSSBPT Org

Swami arrived to Kulwant hall and it was filled. He moved through the ladies side blessing the girls from the primary school who were seated there. Then at the center of the hall He looked keenly at all the items placed. Moving to the gents side, He received the adoration and devotion that was laden in the air as the devotees 'rose to different heights' to see Him and then stood even 'higher' with the sheer joy of just seeing Him. Swami completed the rounds of the gents side and then moved through the students and into the interview room. After a while, He came and sat outside listening tothe Vedic chants. He called the district president and enquired into the programme scheduled. He also called Prof. Anil Kumar and gave him some instructions. Then as the chanting ceased, the district president spoke for a few minutes outlining all the activities being undertaken at Kadapa. After him Prof Anil Kumar spoke on why Kadapa was so special for Swami. It played an important part of His "education" and hence has got embedded in all the leelas and mahimas that little Sathya performed there, years ago. The famous fair and Pushpagiri that Swami attended too are in Kadapa. After a beautiful 25 minutes when Swami seemed to become very nostalgic about what was being spoken, Prof. Anil Kumar concluded his talk.

Then the names of the recepients of the articles of Love were read out and they reverentially came forward to receive the tokens of Love. There were volunteers to help move the heavy gifts! The distribution went along very quickly and without much fanfare - the way it always is when it comes to Swami. As the distribution concluded, the next programme, a dance ballet entitled Annamaya began. It consisted of the compositions of the saint Annamacharya and dances tuned to their rhythms. The children participating in this programme had been drawn from the poorest strata of society. Some of them were also children of people who had taken to begging as a means of living! But on the stage, they were such wonderful performers that they won everyone's hearts. They were all extremely rich in their love for God and simple in their faith in Him. Swami sat watching the dance providing the rhythm through the beat of His hands. There were about 5 dances in all and different sets of children performed them. The most prominent among the songs was "Adigo Allidigo Sri Harivasamu" for which every member in the audience also began to clap rhythmically. Every dance was received by rounds of hearty applause. As the final dance concluded, all the children came forward and in a very disciplined manner stood in lines. Swami was very happy. He had sarees and white cloth pieces distributed to the girls and boys respectively.

As the distribution concluded, He said that He would move down to bless them all with group photos. He slowly moved down and smilingly sat amidst the children. As the photos were taken, Swami told the photographers to move to the right and then to the left so that none of the children get left out! That was a very sweet gesture from Swami. He asked the names of a couple of kids and blessed them. Moving back to the stage, Swami asked the devotees to sing some songs. They were ecstatic! It was already late and they never expected that chance. But with Swami, it is joy always! He always wants everyone happy and will always go out of His way to ensure it. And so, the group songs began. Though it was late, Swami sweetly satting tapping His hands rhythmically for one song each by the gents and the ladies. After that, He received Aarthi and left.
 

 

Friday, September 5, 2008  Read the details of Ganesha immersion with photos
Teachers day was welcomed by most of the residents of the Sri Sathya Sai institutions like one would do for the New Year's Day - by keeping awake through the night! Swami had notified everyone that Ganesha immersion - an event of great significance in the Indian annual calendar would take place on the 5th. The act of taking the clay idol of Lord Ganesha to the nearby water body and immersing Him in it has a great spiritual meaning. The clay idol is symbolic of the human body composed of the five elements. It should spend time on the earth in a manner that it is worshipped! After its worshippable stay on the earth, it finally merges back with the elements. Though the idol is gone, Ganesha lives forever! And that story is the same for the true being, the soul, too. It is in this spirit and fervour that the immersion is celebrated all over India, more so in Puttaparthi. And everyone is fully immersed in making either chariots or palanquins for carrying the sweet elephant Lord Ganesha!
 
Video update:
Videos Ganesha Immersion Ceremony 5th Sep.08
 
       
click 2 enlarge      
       
       
       


At about 3:00pm, all the chariots from the school and Institute and the various institutions were all lined up along the main road at Parthi and what an impressive sight it was! The procession began to the singing of bhajans, enthusiastic rhythms of the chants and the musical beats of the drums. The beeline towards the mandir was ready and it began. As the chariots entered the mandir, they were led to the bays that had been earmarked for them to park. Soon the entire array was ready and what an impressive sight it was! The mandir resembled a cosmic battlefield where the Lord pervaded all the chariots! To add to this was a contingent of little Ganeshas from primary school waiting in front of Swami's residence along with the Nadaswaram and the Veda chanting contingents. There was a peacock chariot and another one that had the Golden eagle. A palanquin and a chariot had been inspired by Adi Sesha, the serpent which forms the bed for Lord Vishnu, and they were designed like that divine snake. There was a "Harry Potter" cup inside which Ganesha stood as the prize, a huge Hibiscus flower had Ganesha as its centre, a castle and a mountain added to the variety. An elephant with Ganesha seated atop in the howdah also paraded in the procession. A "navaratna ring" chariot too was present and there were chariots from the indoor stadium and from the Sri Sathya Sai airport too.



It was about 4:00pm when Swami came out for the darshan rounds. A little "Ganesha" immediately moved forward to his "father" and offered a rose and that instantly brought a sweet smile on Swami's face. He asked for all the procession to begin as He sat watching from in front of Yajur Mandir. Representative members of each group that had gathered there went forward to Swami and offered flowers before embarking and joining the procession. The procession entered the Kulwant hall and so did Swami, behind it. He slowly went past each and every chariot and as He went by, there were people holding out fruits and various articles of worship. Very patiently, Swami blessed each of them and looked at the chariots. He went for a full round looking at and appreciating the creativity and devotion embodied in the vehicles for Lord Ganesha. He then came and sat on the stage. As part of the programme, a dance on the glories of Ganesha had been organised. The children from the school did a wonderful job and there was a loud round of applause for all of them. As they concluded, Swami called the warden and blessed everyone to go around for the pradakshina.
 


Sai Ganesha  Photos, videos wallpapers  WALLPAPERS more...


There is a very famous story of how Ganesha went around Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati and claimed that He had circumambulated the entire universe. When questioned, He simply replied that his parents were the Universe for Him. In that similar manner, all the students and staff went around Swami and the mandir. After that, each chariot was brought up in front of Swami as the announcers introduced them and explained the significance of their vehicle.

Ganesha Immersion Ceremony

Procession of Chariots and Palanquins and Dance Programme


Photo slide show by SSSBPT Org -

 
Also read: Prasanthi Bulletin 5th Sep 08 ( By Sairadio.org & )
The Ganesha Immersion ceremony was held today. Representatives from all the Sai Institutions at Prasanthi Nilayam brought their Ganesha idols in colourful floats to the Mandir in a procession, lining up along Swami's darshan route by 3.30 pm. Bhagawan arrived just before four o'clock, and moved slowly along the path in front of the arrayed Ganesha chariots. When He reached the stage, the students presented a dance on Ganesha. Then the entire procession circumambulated the Mandir, and with a short description being narrated for each chariot, moved out of the main gate for the immersion. Bhagawan moved to the interview room, and in a few minutes came into the Bhajan Hall and asked for the Bhajans to commence just after five o'clock. After half an hour, Swami accepted Arati and returned to Yajur Mandir.
 
Thursday, September,4, 2008 Swami didn't come for morning darshan, in the evening Swami came at  4.15 p.m. and took a full darshan round. After His darshan round Swami spent nearly 15 minutes on the portico interacting with the students. He also created gold chain for one of the student. At around 4.40 p.m.  Swami went inside the interview room again at 5.20 p.m. Swami came out on the portico and moved  among the students. The Bhajans commenced at 5.30 p.m. half an hour later Bhagawan accepted Arati Swami returned to His residence at 6.25 p.m.

 
Wednesday, September 3, 2008 Today, Ganesh Chaturthi was celebrated with puja being performed in the various institutions at Prasanthi Nilayam after morning Bhajans. In the evening, Bhagawan arrived at 4.15 pm and after a full darshan round in His chair, went into the interview room. A short while later, He came out and called some devotees for interviews. At 5.45, He sent word for Bhajans to start in the Bhajan Hall, and half an hour later He accepted Arati and returned to His residence.
 

 
Tuesday,September,02,2008 : Today was a special day for all the students working at the various institutions that Swami has personally set up. September 2nd is the anniversary of the formation of the Central Trust and it happened to be a Tuesday. To enable all the students from even places like Bangalore to assemble in His divine presence, the celebrations were advanced to the 31st of August, a Sunday. And it turned out to be very apt for indeed it was an 'August' gathering!

In the morning, all the student-staff, 165 in all, gathered in the bhajan hall. The ages ranged from the early twenties to the late fifties! It was indeed such a wonderful brotherhood that has united under the fatherhood of Sai! Swami too seemed to be very eager to make the occasion very special. He arrived at 9:10am and then sat in the bhajan hall for bhajans till 10:00am! He promised that He would speak to everyone in the evening and then left receiving Aarthi. In the meanwhile, the Lord, divine Mother that He is, arranged a sumptuous feast for all the children that had so lovingly and sincerely gathered at His feet.
All of them were escorted to the South Indian Canteen premises where a meal of more than 18 items had been spread over regal plates royally for the 165 gathered!

It was around this time that all the chief priests of the Tirupati Tirumala Devastanams arrived at Swami's residence, Yajur Mandir.. Very graciously, Swami permitted them to enter and chant mantras in His presence. The new Chairman of Tirumala Tirupati Devesthanam (TTD) Shri.Adi Kesavalu Naidu, had also come along with his wife to offer his obeisance and great sense of gratitude to Swami. Swami blessed them and told them,"The opportunity to serve the Lord is something that people do not get even after intense prayers. You have got it so easily even without asking for it! Indeed it is a great blessing conferred on all of you." Everyone fell in full prostration at the feet of their living Lord and left after Swami very smilingly and graciously blessed them.

As He had promised, Swami enquired at about 3:30pm whether all the students had gathered in the bhajan hall. He wanted to make sure none miss the bounty that He was about to confer. At exactly 4:00pm, Swami and His dear children had all gathered inside. Swami took a round and enquired sweetly from everyone as to whether they were all happy with the food! When everyone responded with joy, Swami was very touched and happy.

Moving to the front, Swami lit the candle and cut a specially made cake. Then Swami settled comfortably facing all the students.


"What do you want me to speak about?" Swami said , "Ask your doubts."


A research scholar from the University put forth his sincere shortcoming. "Swami, how do we control the mind?"

" Mind has no death and none can control it. It is forever. Without that consciousness, man cannot live. Mind should be there. Mind is the nature of man. When you are a man, mind will exist. When you become one with God alone, mind goes and all become One. Only in the Advaitic state, mind vanishes.

As long as I & We and Mine and Ours exist, mind will exist. "This is mine", "that is mine" - such thoughts lead to the persistence of the mind. All this is Dvaita or dualism. Mind will be fickle as long as duality exists. Advaita is I am I. If you think you are the other, the materials etc, mind continues. If you say, "This is mine", you are different from the material. The physical world removes spirituality. Reduce your desires gradually- less luggage, more comfort.

Many people take to meditation. What is it? It means the halting of the mind. Ask for anything, but be detached. Thoughts and desires come. As long as ocean is there, waves are natural. You cannot get rid of waves. When waves merge in the ocean, they disappear. The waves are physical in natural and they have stayed from the birth. They do not reduce. When you get the oneness with God, waves reduce. Till then desires keep attacking.

Physically, mentally and materially, thoughts arise. The thoughts are the saplings. Courage is necessary. Seeds of Love and rain of devotion mixed with feelings, lead to good crops. If worldly thoughts arise, they keep growing. You say meditation, but no one does it. One just sits but does not focus the mind even for a moment. When you say to yourself that, "I and God are one" with full faith, the thoughts will cease. "God is not separate from me. I am not separate from God."

Have firm faith. There is no place without God. Everything happens from thoughts. People say they saw things in meditation. That is only imagination due to the thoughts. There should not be any thoughts. Even if you think God has come and stood, that's also imagination. It is an aberration of the mind. There is only one- no other! Have no feeling of 'I' or separation. As far as possible, crush the feeling of 'I'. As long as 'I' exists, 'you' also will exist.

The mind, brain, Buddhi, Chitta- everything will go. Only the Atma remains. To think that you will achieve through meditation is a mistake.

Indrajit was Ravana's son. He had conquered the senses. But he too died when Rama came. Vibhishana's son was also there. If he is won over, Victory is assured. He came to fight.

Formerly, Hanuman had gone around all the streets of Lanka. He got himself caught by Indrajit only to see and study the place. After that was served, Indrajit got killed. Vibhishana's son, Buddhijit, was very fearsome. If he is gone, Lanka too shall be gone. None knew where his life principle was. Vibheeshana told Rama to shoot his right shoulder. Then he died. Then the father began to cry and Rama came to know the Truth. Lanka will be gone. The war was as good as over..

The father gave up the life of his own son. Even among rakshasas, such people are there. He was a man without feeling of mine and I. When he gave up these, then only victory was achieved.. Vibhishana was coronated. All were happy including his wife Sarma and children, Shakini and Dakini. They had protected and enthused Sita. "Do not worry, Rama will surely come and kill Ravana and remove all of his ten heads." Sita then became courageous. Lanka was full of demons but Rama made even that place also peaceful. The reason for all demons getting killed was because they all had the feeling of I and mine. If Vibhishana had the feeling of I and mine, then Lanka would not have got redeemed. Even demons helped God.

In the world, Sathya, Dharma, Shanti, Prema and Ahimsa will come only if you tell, "I am man and not an animal". Animal thoughts must go. Human qualities and human values must arise. From Sathya, Peace comes. From these emerges Love. When Love is there, you hate none and all are equal. This Love has to be developed. It is there in everything. You see ants moving in a single line, talking to each other, kissing and then moving ahead Ants have love. When a calf is born, the mother may go to forest to graze, but she is always thinking of the child. The calf too keeps telling "Amma, amma" till she comes. Even animals have Love. The love is same in all. So you cannot give up one another. Therefore develop human values.

The first is Truth. It is everything and everywhere.. There is only one Truth. Not two. From that arises Dharma. From that comes Shanti. Then everything is so serene!! Love emerges then. When peace comes, you have feeling of Oneness. In ancient times, people meditated even in forests with vicious animals. All animals would come and sit with them. Why? Because of pure feelings and absence of ill-will. Yad Bhavam Tad Bhavati.

If you harm none, none will harm you.. If you try to harm only, problems arise. There is a dog sleeping if you just pass by, it'll just remain. Even if you bend to pick a stone, it will get up. Thoughts are there too. When you take care of thoughts, nothing can happen. Do not harm others even in thoughts. Never pain or hurt others in thoughts too. It's a way of cheating yourself, to trouble others in your thoughts.

Everything is in us. The whole world is in us. Good and bad reside in us. When bad thoughts arise, bad actions follow. The connection between thoughts and actions is like the switching of a light bulb. The action definitely follows your thoughts. If you think of all as brothers, all will be that way. But if you develop hatred and anger, they too will feel like beating you up. Do not have bad feelings on others, for it is what you are feeling towards yourself. All that happens to you is because of yourself alone. The thoughts and feelings do not affect others, they affect you only. Be thought-less, then you are pure. Lest, the thoughts come back and trouble you!

A small story.

A dog went into a house of mirrors. It saw many dogs coming towards it. It got fearful. So it attacked one dog. The mirror collapsed and broke. Now, thousands of dogs began to attack it! The dogs increased. The dog resigned and left. As many pieces you break, that many dogs come. But if a human enters such a house, he will know, "I am only getting reflected everywhere." So, if he sees any fault, he sets himself right. For everything is but a reflection. Ishwara sarva bhootanam.

God is not separate from us. He is within us. That feeling must be there. Help ever hurt never. If you hurt anyone, it'll come back to you. Even if you help, that'll come back. That is the secret of God's creation. In God's creation, There is God alone. Truth, God and Consciousness are all one. Everything else will change.

What is consciousness? That is Myself. That is self realisation- to recognise oneself. That animal is me. That dog or that lion- all are me. The dog barks at elephant not knowing that both are the same. If you look within, dog and elephant are same. Names and forms are many but Conscious within is the same. It is changeless. There is only one sun in the sky. Same is seen in Russia or USA or Italy. But it is day here and night in USA. Does not mean that the sun is not there! It is only due to the changes in the earth. There is only one sun. S-u-n not S-o-n! (all laugh) The countries are different but feelings are same. Put in efforts to realize the unity. Work for Oneness.

Dont meditate to see God. You are God. Why do you struggle to see Him? Daivam Manusha Roopena. When the artist draws, naturally he will draw as a human form. Be it Rama or Krishna- because God takes human form, He has human qualities. Because of this, those human qualities act as a screen on His divinity. That is Maya. As long as the screen exists, one is deluded. The dog is confused as long as the mirrors are there once the mirrors are removed, no problems! We are only increasing our attachments and not destroying them. "Mukkalu"(divide") cheesthe Kukkalu vosthayi(dogs will come)! There are not many dogs but only one. But reflections are seen in all. No need to fear that there are so many dogs.

Do not feel that we are facing so many sorrows and obstacles. The trouble is actually you. You alone are responsible for them. We develop and keep only the photographs of the feelings. Remove all the images and keep the negatives - the basis. If you keep taking photos, they will go one day. Keep the negatives, you can get any number of images printed.

How does God look? Peacock feather implies Krishna and trident is for Shiva. None have seen Him. This is all imagination. You say Swami, we saw Krishna. You are Krishna. Why efforts to see yourself. It is only when you forget your nature, you desire thus. So do not forget yourself. God does not have many forms. They are all like Ravi Verma pictures! Its not that God came in that form. It is the imagination of the painters. People without wisdom alone stick to forms. These forms are all for satisfaction alone.

But when you think you are God, you must have God's qualities. But if you consider yourself anything lower, lower thoughts arise. Everything arises, lives and merges back into pure Truth. Your Self is the Truth. Everything else are copies. There is only one original. Creation is all copies. Everything is born from love, depends on Love for sustenance and Merges into love again. Your reflection is seen on the water bubble. But the bubble bursts in moments. You are eternal! All reflections will die down one day.

When Sita was taken to Lanka, she always kept telling Rama Rama. If you want to see Rama, keep his form in mind and his name on the lips. Same is the case with Krishna. The name and from are one and the same. If you see form, name comes and if you chant the name, form comes. So whatever bad feeling comes, it is you. You cannot say that it came from this or that person. All are born of you. Bad thoughts arise in this age. Where did it come from? That woman I saw. But if she comes in your thoughts, did she enter you? No, because you think of her, her form came in mind. Both good and bad arise out of us.

The belch depends on what you eat. If you eat mango, cucumber belch does not come. Whatever you think of only comes in your dreams. You may think I did not think of it before sleeping. You must have thought of it sometime before then! Nothing can come from outside and get into you. Is it easy for a lady to come and get into us? Because of your feelings the form arose in the mind. Feeling has no form and she too is formless. So formless always remains formless. When you develop the thought of a form , that will appear before you. Everything comes from within you. You are the cause for everything. All the good and bad is in you!

Think of bad, bad comes. Good gives good So understand everything comes from thoughts. So think always that, "I am the Atma." What is the form of Atma? It is Purity. It is true consciousness. Develop the purity first. Unity arises out of purity. From there comes divinity. Therefore get purity and you can reach God. So when you want to see oneness, move from the multiplicity to Unity.

When you see Swami, you think only of Him and then only He will come. Some think, Swami is not speaking with me. Not only you, Swami is not speaking with anyone. Now I am speaking. Tell with whom I am speaking? To all. I always speak to all. Never think, Swami is speaking to me alone. Swami is close to him and far from him. Swami never goes far nor goes near to anyone. Swami will never give up anyone. It is all the fault in the feelings. So set right the feelings. That is meditation. Get the feeling of oneness. As is the feeling so is the happening. Nothing comes from outside. It is all from within. Even the child is born from within It does not enter the womb from outside. Only physically differences exist. Truth is one but described in many ways. Do not go by the descriptions. Did you all understand?

From this moment realise I and God are one only one and not two. It's not the bodies merging, but in the I, Swami exists. Even Jesus declares, "There is only 1". Cut the 'I' of the ego and only 1 remains. Even the Muslims say,(here Swami said "Alla-o-Akbar" and told the meaning of Akbar also.) "Allaha". Aa- means I and La means not this. It too says to remove the i. There is only that sound of Akaara. Joining different consonants, many sounds are created.....What is the time now? 5:00 pm!

After the bhajans, you sing, Loka Samastha Sukhino Bhavanthu It means let everything in this world be happy. Dont say that. Say, "SAMASTHA LOKAHA SUKHINO BHAVANTHU". It means let all the worlds be happy. It is very broad based and expansive. Let all the worlds be happy. Start it from now or from Thursday.

What else? Remember that God's work is real work. Swami's darshan is true Aanandam Swami's words are your meditation and joy. Body is for work and mind is for contemplation. If these two are there, all merge into one. Contemplate on any name. Gods are not separate All are one and they differ only in pictures.

In Uttar Pradesh, peacock feathers are easily available and so all children put it on their head They will not become Krishnas! Peacock feather alone won't make you Krishna. Think of the beauty of God. Everything is God. So also, all work you do, it is God's work. Do not think I am working in hospital, college, hostel or Central Trust. Everything is God work But you make it bad work by thinking of differences. In book stall you tell this is Rajan's work. That is neither Rajan nor Central Trust work. It is all Sai work. Be united in every small thing too. Then you will get true meditation. But you close eyes and search for mosquitoes biting you! All work done by this body is God's work. Then no need of any tapas or penance. Many are doing japam and instead of forgetting the world, they forget the rosary! Whatever you think in the heart, that will happen. That is everything. Any more doubts?

How to be spiritual following the Gruhastha Dharma?

That is also divine! Think that is divine work Do not separate things as worldly or spiritual. Everything is God. In and around God!

Is it not being boastful telling that I am God I am God?

NO. That is the correct. Satyam. If you think you are God and do mad things then its wrong. When you think you are God, work like God If you do something, think "Will God do like this?" Search yourself. That is true. Whatever work you do - home work, office work- do not separate them. You are important. Nothing else exists and you are there everywhere. Keep the I. Forget the differences of work of all sorts. That is Oneness! So in everything, get rid of I and mine. If these two are gone, all is achieved.

This is my towel. If I give it to you, how will it be mine? There is nothing called mine. Have no sense of difference.

Swami we are all very grateful to you!

Then You should not tell that! Treasure and keep it! Its all God's Grace. Grace alone gives you gratefulness. Without Grace, everything is grass! You cannot divide and chop Grace. You can cut grass but not Grace.

All are happy?

YES SWAMI!! All look forward to such sessions with you!

Very happy. I'll give one more opportunity. (claps)

Swami then permitted a senior brother to speak a few words. He beautifully recounted experiences with Swami that had touched him and in turn everyone gathered at His feet, very deeply! After that, Swami asked all the students to sing songs. Two Telugu songs narrating the unique love between the Lord and His devotee and a Hindi song expressing the great joy at being in HIs presence praying that such things happen over and over again were sung. Swami then looked at the clock and said, "Even bhajans time is over!"

After Receiving Aarthi and blessing prasadam to be distributed to all, Swami retired for the day. - Om Sai Ram
 
 
Tuesday,September,02,2008: Today morning Bhagawan arrived in Sai Kulwant Hall by 9.30 a.m.  and took a  full round of darshan. After taking His darshan round Swami moved around on the verandah interacting with devotees sitting there. After only half hour Swami returned back to His abode i.e. at 10. a.m. . In the evening Swami came at 4.00 p.m. and went directly to Poornachandra hall to bless the selected Ganesha idols set up for Ganesha Chaturthi. At 4.15 p.m. arrived in Kulwant hall on His chair, Swami collected number of letters on His way to the mandir. After reaching verandah Swami once again moved to the ladies side and talked to one elderly devotee for quite some time. Swami first created Vhibuti for her and then materialized a gold chain and put it around her neck to the thundering applause of all the devotees. After taking the 'extra' round of the ladies side Bhagawan again went back to the verandah and after while entered interview room.

Today Swami accepted the evening aarthi at 6.00 p.m. Kulwant hall has been decorated for Ganesha Chaturthi. Many V VIPs are here,  Royalty from Belgium, home minister of Sri Lanka, cricketer VVS Laxman etc. Streets of Parthi are decorated with colourful lights & with a huge Ganesha idol installed for Ganesha Chaturthi festival.  The weather is humid & marked by rain. Sai Ram & Happy Ganesha Chaturthi to all.

 

Monday, September ,01,2008 :  Today morning Bhagawan arrived in Sai Kulwant Hall by 9.00 a.m. Swami took a full round of Sai Kulwant Hall on His chair. after taking His darshan round Swami went inside the Bhajan mandir after few bhajans Swami accepted the aarti and drove out towards the main road, Swami's took a short drive up to the bypass road and returned back to ashram via Gopuram gate. In the evening Swami came out from Yajur mandir at 4.25 p.m. After passing by the ladies side Bhagwan went straight towards the portico, as might be expected the gents were 'disappointed'. But, the loving mother Sai overcompensated the gents for his detour since Swami remained on the portico for sometime giving wonderful darshan to the gents. Afterwards Swami  interacted with few devotees on the verandah and later went inside the Bhajan mandir. After the bhajans Swami accepted the aarti at  6.30 p.m. and returned back to Yajur mandir.
 

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