Sai Baba Darshan News & Photos Source: -
www.radiosai.org, Prasanthi diary, www.sssbpt.org-
Sai devotees - Sai Students & SBOI-GROUP- www.saibabaofindia.com.
This morning, the seven-day Veda Purusha Sapthaha Jnana Yagna was coming to a close. The priests
concluded their rituals by nine o'clock and went for their ceremonial ablutions. Bhagavan came
to Sai Kulwant Hall at around half-past nine and after half an hour, all gathered at the
Poornachandra for the conclusion of the Yagna. Swami sent for the large silver ladle through
which the final offerings were to be made, and at a quarter past ten, the final offerings were
made with Bhagavan sitting next to the sacrificial fire. Swami then moved to the
Dasara Divine Discourse
27th Sept 2009
"...Once several years ago, I visited Anantapur. I was very
young then. I stayed in the bungalow of the District collector.
He came to Me and requested, “Swami! There are a number of deer
here. Please take two of them along with You and keep them in
Your Ashram.” The Prasanthi Nilayam building was not built yet.
Read
on>>
Western end of the stage and accepted the Arati there. The Grama Seva also
concluded today, with the students of the Anantapur campus serving food and clothes to the
Ashram residents. In the evening, Bhagavan arrived just before the five o'clock bhajans began
and sat onstage for a while after His darshan round. He then moved to the bhajan hall where the
priests who officiated at the Yagnam were seated. He blessed them profusely with clothes and
other gifts, interacting with them for more than fifteen minutes. It was a quarter past six when
He accepted Arati, and He left for His residence after a brief visit to the interview room. More
details in Report with Pictures below
The seven day long ritual, Dasara Jnana Saptaha Yajnam concluded on 28th morning with Bhagawan
receiving Poornahuthi as Yajna Purusha, witnessed by thousands in a jam-packed Poornachandra
Auditorium. Bhagawan who presided over the Yajna blessed the occasion while the final offerings
were being made in to the pit; amidst the holy Vedic Chantings.
The very name ‘Vijaya’ meaning ‘victory’ summarized the significance of the entire festival of
Dasara - the triumph of the good over evil. On the auspicious morning upon entering the Sai
Kulwant Hall, Bhagawan granted Darshan to the thousands assembled there after which He blessed
the priests with special clothes, in the bhajan hall.
Clad in a maroon robe, upon reaching the dais, Bhagawan, after watching the proceedings for
sometime asked for the special metal pole through which the final ghee offering was to be done
as the concluding part of the Yajna. The Yajna Purusha He is, Bhagawan was invoked by the
priests to take His seat to accept the final offering. Surrounded by the priests, amidst loud
chanting of the Vedas by the priests and students, and a thundering applause from the multitude
of devotees, red flames of the sacred fire rose up to receive a red cloth bundle of offerings
along with a continuous stream of ghee. Subsequently He went to the western end of the stage
where special Kumkum Archana along with Lalitha Sahasranama Parayanam was being done and
received Arati marking the end of seven day long ritual.
This was followed by the final lap of Grama Seva 2009, wherein women students of Sathya Sai
University along with staff members from the University and Primary School distributed Prasadam
to all inmates at their door step inside the ashram, marking the end of ten days of Karma Yajna,
started on the 19th of September.Yet another memorable occasion in the annals of Prasanthi
Nilayam!!!
Earlier, during the six consecutive days, starting from the first day of the Yajna, 22nd
September 2009, the archetype assembly of the learned shared their wisdom in the Divine Presence
and adding glitter to this archetype assembly came a Divine Discourse lasting ninety minutes
wherein Bhagawan dwelled upon in detail on His childhood days. The other speakers who spoke on
various days included Prof. Vishwanath Pandit, the current Vice Chancellor, Sri S.V.Giri, IAS (Retd.),
formerly Vice Chancellor, Dr. T.Ravi Kumar on 22nd, Aman Jhaveri and Robin Sharma, students from
the University followed by Sri B.N.Narasimhamurthy on 23rd, Sri Sashank Shah, Research Scholar,
Akshay Kamath, student from the University followed by Dr. Subhash Subramaniam, faculty member
from the University on 24th, Sri V.Srinivasan, All India President of Sri Sathya Sai Seva
Organisations, Bhabani Shankar, M.Phil student who spoke in Hindi followed by Srinivasan
SriRanagarajan, Controller of Examinations on 25th, Prof. Anantaraman, faculty, MBA Dept.,
followed by Sri K.Chakravarthi, IAS, Secy, Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust on 26th, Prof.
G.Venkataraman, formerly Vice Chancellor, Sri Sathya Sai University on 27th. All these speeches
were preceded by rhetoric excellence by Anil Kumar Kamaraju in Telugu who dwelled upon various
aspects of the “attributeless” Mother Divine, often peaking with excellent poetic narration.
Anil Kumar was the master of the ceremonies for the archetype assembly of scholars.
Here are some of the highlights of the speeches…
Akshay Kamath in his exhilarating speech urged one and all to follow His path by being aware, by
showing gratitude and by acting upon the task. Talking about His omnipresence he narrated a
beautiful incident wherein Bhagawan told him that he was aware about everything, referring to an
incident wherein the boy translated two hindi lines into English, in the night preceding to a
programme in the Divine Presence, sitting under the streetlight, all out of love for Bhagawan.
Narrating a beautiful incident involving former Chairman of ICICI Bank, Padmabhushan K.V.Kamath,
Sashank Shah mentioned that Mr. Kamath and a group of members from the Saraswat Brahmin
community went to their preceptor in Kashi, Sri Sudheendra Teertha asking a question about the
true nature of Bhagawan…and they got the right answer…Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the
incarnation of the triune principle of Brahma Vishnu and Maheshwara in human form.
Dr. Subash Subramaniam, a lecturer from the Sri Sathya Sai University, using the verse, "Anapeksha
Suchir-daksha Udaasino gathavyathah; Sarvaarambha Parithyaagi Yo madbhaktah sa me priyah" from
the Bhagwad Gita as the backbone of his speech went on to illustrate each of these qualities
dear to the lord with an example. Thus, it was that the experiences of Mrs. Sakamma, the Rajmata
of Nawanagar, Prof. N. Kasturi and Mr. Rama Brahmam regaled and touched Swami and the audience.
Mr. Bhabhani Shankar from the University spoke in Hindi; the speech was rousing and sprinkled
amply with humour as he described the glory of the Mother and Swami quoting extensively from
many a great people.
Mr. Srinivasan SriRangarajan, the Controller of Examinations, spoke on the evolution of man as
he asks the three "Why"s. The first one being "Why me" which evolves into "Why not me?" and
grows to just "Why" before culminating in the ultimate answer, "Sai".
Referring to the Divine Love that is Bhagawan, Prof. Anantaraman said, one could only experience
it, but could never understand the same. Calling the gathering at Prasanthi Nilayam a
heterogeneous one, the learned scholar in his classic speech displaying rhetoric excellence and
mastery over language said that experiences were given to make us richer, to instruct us in the
science of being and the art of living. He narrated a beautiful experience, which he preferred
to call parables of wisdom, narrating the mysterious style of Divinity showing omnipresence,
omnipotence and omniscience ending up teaching us precious lessons.
Calling his speech as no reflection of the speech given by the previous speaker, Prof.
Anantaraman, admitting that he would often go emotional while speaking about Bhagawan, Mr.
K.Chakravarthi, Secretary, Sri Sathy Sai Central Trust said, His story has no beginning and has
no end…we all add up to some chapters in His continuing saga…how we write these chapters depend
on our earnestness and our humility. We are all given some role by Bhagawan in His great saga of
service and sacrifice, of love and mercy, of renewal and redemption…I am constantly humbled by
watching the love and devotion, the faith and determination of devotees, young and old, men and
women, rich and the poor, the mighty and the meek…I know from the depths of my heart that they,
like me, are here not because of any deservedness, but because of His Grace…” said
Mr.Chakravarthi in an emotionally charged speech packed with greater wisdom.
Ayudha Pooja in Prasanthi Nilayam is atypical with a fleet of cars serving the Divinity getting
blessed by Bhagawan, a custom that has been prevalent for years. …And alongwith the same comes
the Golden Chariot. 26th Sept, 2009, the scheduled Ayudha Pooja day witnessed Bhagawan blessing
various cars bedecked with garlands and neatly parked in Sai Kulwant Hall. Coconuts were broken
and chocolates were distributed to everyone.
This morning, Swami arrived in Sai Kulwant hall around half-past nine and later moved to the
Poornachandra to accept Arati there after ten o'clock. From Sai Kulwant hall, He had blessed two
Primary School boys with chains. In the evening, Swami came just before five o'clock and began
the speeches after He sat onstage. Prof. Anil Kumar introduced Prof.
G. Venkataraman as today's speaker. Following his speech, Swami started His
Discourse at 5.40 pm. Bhagavan began His Discourse with the mysteries of Nature, and it began to
rain heavily. After asking those who were getting drenched in the rain to move inside the hall,
Swami moved on to speaking about His childhood days at Kamalapuram, Puttaparthi and Uravakonda.
Prasadam was distributed following the Discourse, and Swami gave the prasadam Himself to some of
the students nearby before Arati at a quarter-past seven.
Bhagavan arrived in Sai Kulwant hall just after 9 o'clock this morning. He moved to the Eastern
side of the hall where His vehicles including the Golden chariot were parked. The Ayudha pooja
was done for all of them and Swami moved to the stage to sit there for a short while with the
Vedic chants before accepting Arati at half-past nine. He then moved to the Poornachandra where
He sat onstage before accepting Arati there after ten o'clock.
In the evening, Bhagavan arrived for darshan just after half-past four and began the programme
of speeches just before five. Prof. Anil Kumar spoke in Telugu, followed by Prof. Anantharaman
of the MBA faculty and Sri K. Chakravarthy, Secretary of the Central Trust. Prasadam was
distributed when the speeches concluded at 6.10. Swami went to the interview room briefly before
returning to accept Arati and retire for the day.
This morning, Swami did not emerge from His residence but sent word for the students to move to
the Yagna venue in the Poornachandra hall at 10 o'clock and for the Arati to be offered there at
11.30. In the evening, He came before five o'clock and began the programme of speeches at 5.20
like on the last few days. Prof. Anil Kumar's introductory Telugu speech was followed by the All
India Sai Organisations President Sri V. Srinivasan, an M.Phil. student Bhabani Shankar in Hindi
and the University's Controller of Examinations Sri Srinivas Srirangarajan. The speeches
concluded at 6.30 and Arati was offered as prasadam was distributed.
Today's proceedings were similar to yesterday's in the morning, with darshan at 9 o'clock and
Arati at 9.30. In the evening, Swami arrived by 4.35 pm and began the programme of speeches just
before five o'clock. Prof Anil Kumar gave a short Telugu speech and then introduced the speakers
for the evening. A research scholar Sri Shashank Shah was followed by MBA student Sri Akshay
Kamath and lecturer Dr. Subhash Subramaniam. All India Sai Organisations President Sri V.
Srinivasan was the last speaker, with the session concluding with Arati at 6.30 pm.
This morning, the students proceeded for Grama seva at 8 o'clock and Bhagavan came for darshan
half an hour later to Sai Kulwant Hall. Sending the students to the Yagnam venue at the
Poornachandra hall, Swami also moved there, coming onstage in a few minutes. Spending nearly
half an hour observing the Yagnam in progress, Swami accepted the ceremonial Arati in the
Western corner of the stage at 9.30 am before returning to His residence.
In the evening, Bhagavan arrived at 4.45 and after His darshan round, began the speeches for the
day just after five o'clock. Two student speakers Aman Jhaveri and Robin Sharma were followed by
Sri Narasimhamurthy, Warden of the Brindavan hostel. As the speeches concluded at 6.20, the
students sang a bhajan following which Arati was offered.
The seven day Veda Purusha Saptaha Jnana Yagna commenced this morning. Swami came to the Sai
Kulwant Hall and after blessing the priests in the bhajan hall, asked the procession to leave
for the Poornachandra auditorium at 9.20 am. After the students and priests reached the
Poornachandra hall, Swami also arrived onstage and watched as the priests started the
sacrificial fire in the ceremonial manner. Watching the proceedings onstage for a few minutes,
Bhagavan returned to His residence at 10.10 am.
In the evening, Swami arrived for darshan by four o'clock and sat onstage after His darshan
round as the Vedic chants went on before moving to the interview room. At half-past four, He
came onstage and began the evening's programme. Prof. Anil Kumar introduced the three speakers
for the day: Prof. Vishwanath Pandit, the Vice-Chancellor of Sri Sathya Sai University, former
VC Sri. S. V. Giri and Dr. T. Ravi Kumar, faculty in the Chemistry department at Brindavan. As
the third speaker concluded, Swami asked for Arati at six o'clock and returned to His residence.
The Yagnam evening puja privately in the Poornachandra before concluding at 8 pm. Dasara Jnana Saptaha Yajnam A Report
Posted at 2000 hrs. on 24th Sept 2009
The Seven Day Ritual coinciding the Navarathri Festival, Veda Purusha Saptaaha Jnana Yajna
commenced in Prasanthi Nilayam on the 22nd morning in the Poornachandra Auditorium in the
immediate Divine Presence.
The festival of Dasara, atypical in Prasanthi Nilayam by its conduct and style, brings nostalgic
memoirs of the grand festivity of olden days in the immediate Divine Presence. The festivity
would get much deserved majesty and grandeur those days with an array of activities tagged to
it, apart from the Veda Purusha Saptaha Jnana Yajna that has been a traditional practice once
the same was a revived after a short breakage. Dasara of olden days would be a grand spectacle
with the spiritual fervour of tens and thousands of devotees thronged to Prasanthi Nilayam met
with the benevolence of Greater Heaven resulting in shower of Supreme Benediction.
Hoisting of
Prasanthi Flag, a symbolic representation of Harmony and Regeneration and Reconstruction of
Humanity, annual conferences of All India Prasanthi Vidhwaan Maha Sabha, where scholars would
speak on various spiritual topics, grand feast to tens and thousands thronged to Prasanthi, and
not the least, series of Divine Discourses suffused with Ultimate Wisdom allied with an array of
other activities, all would render resplendence to the week-long affair.
The beginning of Vasanta Ritu (spring) and Sharath Ritu (autumn) are two very important events
in the Bharatiya Calendar, for they not only signify the change of season but their consequent
effect on the human body and mind. These two periods are taken as sacred opportunities for the
worship of the Divine Mother in the form of Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswathi in the Bharatabhoomi
or India. That is why the festival of Dashara (ten days) or Navaratri (nine nights) is an
important festival celebrated all over India with piety and grandeur.
At Prasanthi Nilayam, especially during the Sharath-Navaratri that falls every year in or around
September - October, people gather in thousands to pay their homage to the Divine Mother
incarnated as Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. Over the past many years, the festival of Dasara in
Prasanthi Nilayam has been closely associated with the ‘Veda Purusha Sapthaha Jnana Yagna’, the
week-long sacrificial ritual conducted in the Divine Presence, for the welfare of the whole
world.
Yajna Commences…
Veda Purusha Saptaaha Jnana Yajna 2009 got underway on the 22nd September in Prasanthi Nilayam
in the immediate Divine Presence of Bhagawan.
On the auspicious morning the Ritwiks officiating
the Yajna were exclusively blessed by Bhagawan in the Bhajan Hall, a usual routine every year.
The group of priests, led by Kotla Lakshmi Narasimham, the Chief Priest designated took out a
procession wherein the Kalasha blessed by Bhagawan on the previous day was taken to the venue
Yajna at Poornachandra Auditorium.
The legend has it that Dasara signifies the victory of Devas over Asuras, i.e., Righteousness
over the forces of evil. Vouching for this mythical belief, thousands have gathered at Prasanthi
Nilayam to celebrate the festivity in the very Divine Presence of Bhagawan, Beloved Mother Sai.
With Bhagawan presiding over the Yajna as Veda Purusha, ritwiks lighted the sacred homam
creating fire by friction, by rubbing two sticks from churning of two wooden pieces. The homam
was carried on by pundits chanting Vedic mantras and making offerings of ghee to the sacred
fire. Besides the homam, there were pundits engaged in performing Suryanamaskar, reading holy
epics, the Ramayana and the Bhagavata, worshipping thousand lingas of Lord Siva, worship to Lord
Ganesha and the Hindu Trinity and other rituals related to the Yajna.
As the Yajna has been continuing every morning and with Bhagawan blessing the occasion with
brief darshan rounds both at the Sai Kulwant Hall followed by at the venue, at the Poornachandra
Auditorium, evening sessions witnessed Prasanthi Vidhwaan Mahasabha, an archetype assembly of
the learned that got to share spiritual and practical wisdom in the immediate Divine Presence, a
practice that has been there from the Dasara of olden days in Prasanthi Nilayam wherein senior
devotees, faculty members and students from the the campuses of Sri Sathya Sai University would
share their thoughts in the Divine Presence.
The first evening of Prasanthi Vidhwan Mahasabha had three speakers sharing their words of
wisdom. The first speaker, Prof. Vishwanath Pandit, Vice Chancellor of Sri Sathya Sai University
impressed the gathering on the greater importance of being happy in life by following Bhagawan’s
teachings. Referring to the ongoing Grama Seva, Prof. Pandit explained how he could impress upon
the special committee set up by the Ministry of Human Resources and Development at Delhi about
the service activities being done at the University level following Divine Teachings of Bahgawan,
which in turn helped the society to earn a feeling of sharing and caring. Talking on the present
day’s business related mentality, highlighting the importance of “sharing and caring”, Prof.
Pandit stressed on the greater importance of ceiling on desires. There should be a clear
demarcation between need and greed. Happiness is not a byproduct of physical wealth, but is
related to how much one can help the society, reminded Prof. Pandit calling upon the students of
the University to rise to the expectations of Bhagawan to serve the society.
The second speaker Mr. S.V.Giri, formerly Vice Chancellor to Sri Sathya Sai University, calling
the festivity a Pan Indian festival that happens all over the country, with the substratum,
total love for the Universal Goddess, Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswathi. The underlying significance of
Navarathri festivity is one pointed concentration and steady effort to achieve success in our
endeavour, said the speaker narrating the legend of Devi’s Tapas done at the point of a needle
to overcome the demon Mashishasura. By doing austerities one should be able to develop the mind
to a higher level, by not allowing it to be controlled by the senses to achieve success, said
Mr. Giri quoting some of the praises from the Lalita Sahasranama. Elucidating on Love that is to
be cultivated Mr. Giri observed that duty without love is demonic, duty with love is desirable
and Love without Duty is Godly, concluded Mr. Giri.
The third speaker, Dr. T. Ravi Kumar, faculty member, Brindavan Campus in an emotionally charged
speech spoke about the Divine Love that basked his life all through ever since he was admitted
at His Lotus Feet when he lost his physical mother. It was a enthralling parade of wonderful
mindboggling experiences telling about the thousand mother’s love Bhagawan has for his devotees.
Today, the Grama seva and morning darshan proceeded like yesterday. In the
evening, the students and some of the Muslim devotees were ready with a musical programme
celebrating Id, the last day of the holy month of Ramzan. Swami arrived in Sai Kulwant Hall at
5.30 pm as the bhajans went on.
After His darshan round, He took a round of the verandah and came into the bhajan hall where
the priests for the Veda Purusha Saptaha Jnana Yagna were seated. Swami blessed the priests and
gave them some instructions for the Yagna which is to begin tomorrow. He then came onstage and
asked Mr. Ajit Popat of the UK to speak.
Mr. Ajit Popat of the UK
After Mr. Popat's speech, it was the turn of young Sathya from Iran, studying in the Primary
School here, to say a few words. The students then sang a couple of songs following which Swami
accepted Arati at half-past six. Posted at 1400 rs. on 24th Sept 2009
Greeting the Lord on Id Ul Fitr - Month of
Ramadan
Id-Ul Fitr that marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting was celebrated in
Prasanthi Nilayam in the Divine Presence. Prasanthi’s unique label of Religious Harmony was on
display on the festive 21st evening in Sai Kulwant Hall when the holy occasion was celebrated in
a simple yet elegant function in the immediate Divine Presence.
young Sathya from Iran
The programme commenced at 5.45 p.m. with a speech by Ajit Popat from the United Kingdom.
Invoking Bhagawan in typical Islamic fashion, the Islamic call to prayer, Mr. Popat dwelt on the
significance of fasting during Ramadan and Navaratri. Fasting at physical level was not enough,
but the mind should be trained to perform the fast to attain purity. Narrating an interesting
incident during the ongoing Grama Seva, Mr. Popat mentioned that when Prasadam was distributed
to a devout muslim and family, who received the same after performing the Id Namaz in the local
mosque, the devout Muslim and his family thanked Bhagawan for His love and expressed that their
prayers had been answered by merciful Allah.
Id Ul Fitr in 1978 blessed
by His Divine Presence - Puttaparthi Mosque
This was followed by a speech by Sathya, a class seven boy from Primary School, of Muslim Origin
from Iran who spoke on the importance of prayer and fasting during the month of Ramadan. The
little speaker stated that it was a great good fortune of all to celebrate the festival of Id in
the Divine Presence of Bhagawan. Talking from a personal front, the boy thanked Bhagawan for all
the wonderful chances that Bhagawan has been bestowing upon the family during their stay with
Him over the years. At the end of his short and sweet speech Bhagawan asked the tiny tot to
announce publicly that he has come from Iran and has been in Prasanthi Nilayam for the past five
years.
These speeches were followed by an enthralling and elevating programme of devotional music,
titled “Sai Ke Darbar Mein” by the post graduate students of Sri Sathya Sai University.
The Holy Quran through the Holy Hands
For the Muslims in and around Puttaparthi, this was a great occasion as Prasanthi’s tag of
embracing unity of all religions was yet again on display and thus a special occasion for the
minority Muslims who were immensely blessed by the Divine Grace long ago in the year 1978 by His
special Divine Grace. Read on for a flashback into the glorious Id festival in 1978 when the
Muslims in Puttaparthi had their day in the immediate Divine Presence of Alla Sai.
Id Ul Fitr in 1978 blessed by His Divine Presence
“Sai Baba found that the Muslims of Puttaparthi had to trek about four miles to Bukkapatnam
every time they had to pray in a mosque, since they did not have a place of worship in their own
village. He called together the Muslims, mostly poor agricultural labourers and artisans and
very graciously consulted them on their needs in this regard. Baba in His infinite compassion
built a mosque for them in the village, truly an architectural gem, charming, simple and
spacious. The mosque was completed and consecrated in time for the Ramzan festival in August
this year.
Baba welcomed the Muslims into the Prasanthi Nilayam area, when they prayed for permission to
sing the pre‑dawn Ramzan hymns (salaat) before the commencement of the daily fast. Another act
of Grace was the visit that Bhagawan paid to the Mosque, on the Id Festival day. A large
assemblage of Indian and Foreign devotees and also villagers of all faiths were present to share
in the joy that Bhagawan gave to the Muslims that day, when He visited the Mosque. Sri. G.
Fakhruddin the Convener of the village Mosque committee while paying the homage of welcome said
that the Muslims of Puttaparthi feel both humble and happy by the gift of a Mosque from
Bhagawan. Sri. Fakhruddin said that the Light and Love that shone in and through the founders
of all religions were physically present in Sathya Sai Baba today. He expressed eternal
gratitude to Sai Baba for showing the Muslims the Pathway to God and for re‑inforcing their
belief in the universal aspects of all religions.
Baba, in His Telugu discourse, which was understood by all the Muslims
who gathered there, said that Ramzan was the month when the Holy Quran was revealed to the
Prophet Muhammad. It was a divine Communication, a Bhagavad Vani, reaching him through waves or
Tarangas of Divine Vibrations. The Vedas too were revealed in the same manner by God to the
Rishis. The Bible, the Zenda Vesta, and the other great scriptures of other religions also had
similar Divine Inspiration as the reason for their validity. Since the Quran originated from
God, Baba declared, it cannot be changed or modified, to suit 'changed' conditions. They are all
eternal verities. The Quran, according to Baba, contained expositions of the five vital
principles or pancha prana of human life: mercy, truth, sacrifice, love and tolerance. These
principles, really basic to the good life are emphasised in all religious texts of humanity. If
they assimilate the truths declared in the Quran, they can live in full concord with all others.
No religion praises violence or falsehood. Baba said that fasting was laid down during the
Ramzan, in order to make people experience the benefits of sense‑control and in order to cleanse
the spirit and the passions of man, so that he may be rendered fit to approach God. Fasting is
also referred to as Upavas; Baba said that Upa means 'near' and vas means `living'. So, Upavas
means, living very near God. The Ramzan fast is intended to enable Muslims to set aside all
sensory desires and to spend an entire month in the Holy Presence of God. As man gets the cool
heartening breeze when he approaches the air‑conditioner, or fan, so too when man approaches
God, his sorrows will vanish and he will have his good aspects flourish by His Grace. Cultivate
during this Month of God all the Godly qualities, charity, unity, love, service, detachment,
tolerance. And, see that you practise them, not only at home, but, spread the joy outside your
household also.
Fasting entails not merely abstaining from food and drink from sun‑rise to sun‑set, but, the
mastery of the more difficult discipline of giving up violence, falsehood, anger, envy, and the
maligning of others. One may have to face ridicule and persecution, obstructions and troubles
when he decides to lead the good, holy life. Prophet Muhammad was persecuted thus and he had to
leave Mecca for Medina. Jesus was crucified for the meek and the mute. As the Lord's Will
assumes the form of a tree—the Kalpavriksha—in order to be a perennial source of sustenance and
sweetness to others, great persons have suffered voluntarily, for the sake of their beneficent
beliefs. In spite of hurdles and handicaps, Prophet Muhammad did not give up his conviction; He
declared that there was only One God and that His Name was Allah. He commanded his disciples to
serve mankind, and treat all others as fellow beings, children of the same God. Baba called
upon the Muslims to study the Gift of God to man, namely the Quran and holds its teachings as
valid for all time, because they are universal and basic.
At the end of His Discourse, Baba created out of His Will (Sankalpa) seven silver lockets, each
with the Arabic Inscription, 'Allah' and gave them over to the Convener, to be distributed among
the members of the Mosque Committee. Baba was cheered in great devotion by all the villagers,
while the Muslims sang Telugu and Urdu poems praising His Love and Compassion towards all
mankind.
Bhagawan blessed the group of priests
Earlier upon completing a full round of darshan Bhagawan blessed the group of priests lead by
Kotla Lakshmi Narasimham designated to officiate the one week Dasara Jnana Saptaha Yajnam, a
routine affair every year.
The beautiful evening session dedicated to the Muslim brethrens came to a close at 6.30 p.m.
with Arati to Bhagawan.
Om Sairam dearest Sai Family,
Since the bygone ages, every Avatar that incarnated on this earth had a different style of
operation, different tasks to fulfill in different periods of time. Rama Avatar stressed upon
Rama Rajya where there was brother hood of Man and father hood of God, Krishna Avatar was unique
in its own way who taught the Man- kind pure love and up-liftment of Dharma. Shirdi Avatar was
one avatar, where in unity among Muslims and Hindus was stressed. Probably Shirdi Baba knew the
kind of rivalry that would arise among Hindus and Muslims during the British rule and especially
when Pakistan was divided from India. In Sathya Sai Avatar, our kind Lord is stressing upon the
five principles of Sathya, Dharma, Shanthi, Prema and Ahimsa which is a unique thing especially
in this period of time. Even though every avatars' modus operandi was different one thing that
we see in common is the Divine Magnetic power. That power which drew people from all faiths, all
sects and literally every one. That same divine Magnetic power, drew about 3000 devotees from
the district (county) of Warangal, Andhra Pradesh, a place well known for its courage, for its
warrior ship, for its patriotism. Today was their last day in the holy Parthi.
Swami blessed the august gathering with His divine darshan at 5:15pm as every inch of Sai
Kulwanth hall and its surroundings was occupied by eagerly awaiting devotees. Swami out of His
immense grace, seated majestically in His car chair moved among His beloved devotees blessing
every one. After a full round, Swami came on to the dais. As the bhajans were sung with utmost
devotion and love, there was this section of people who were singing from the bottom of their
hearts, the devotees of Warangal to bless their drama to be performed in His immediate presence
as it was their last day. Even though the clock showed 6pm every one were sure that they will
get the divine consent and it has happened on many occasions. The all knowing Swami send a word
for the district president of Warangal and after 5 minutes Swami asked them to put up the show.
All the devotees were seated in their regular places and when Swami showed the green signal for
the drama to commence all the students made way for the drama to start.
In no time the stage was all set for the beautiful one hour drama entitled JANANI (mother). The
drama was in telugu, based on the present day plight of youth who ignore their mother. This was
the story of a young army man, who thought it is the gun that saves him and not God. It so
happens, he comes home for holidays. Before he came home he plans the entire trip. His mother
who loves him so much asks her son to stay with her the next day as well as it was mother's day
and she would want to spend the time with her beloved son, who otherwise is away from home the
rest of the year. The son replies, Mum I have already planned my trip before hand. Tomorrow I'm
going to spend some quality time with my friends, in a restaurant and after that we are going on
an excursion. What will I do by staying with you. What can we talk. If I am with my friends, we
will have so much fun and joy. The mother unsuccessfully pleads her son to stay but in vain. The
next day the son goes out with his friends and there in the street he sees a flower vendor. He
then tells his friends, today is Mother's day, let me send her a bouquet so that she is happy
and I will also be happy. He then orders the flower vendor to make a bouquet. Just then another
young man comes hurrying and asks the flower vendor to make a bouquet bit urgently as he has
only 10 minutes. The flower vendor says, that gentle man has already ordered a bouquet so you
take his permission so that I make your bouquet. He then goes up to the army man seeks his
permission to make his bouquet first. The man asks, why are you in a hurry. The young man
replies, my mother will get worried if I am late since I told her that I will see her in 10
minutes. Finally he gets permission. He then gives the flower vendor a rose to put in the middle
of the bouquet. Seeing this the army man asks why do you want that particular rose in the
middle. The young man replies, this flower is grown in the garden of my mother and it is very
dear to her so I want this flower in the middle as it will make her happy. The army man gets
more curious about this young man whose flower bouquet was ready by then. He then asks where is
your mother. The young man then shows a little building surrounded by a beautiful garden full of
roses, colorful butterflies. The army man then says, it looks like a temple of Bhagawan Sri
Sathya Sai Baba, but does your mother live here? To which the young man replies, Bhagwan Sri
Sathya Sai Baba is my most beloved mother. When I lost my physical mother, Swami took me close
to Him gave me all the assistance and is giving me every thing, how can I forget my Mother? It
is the worst of the sins. (In the mean time while this episode was enacted, Swami seemed so
touched by the boy's statement. His happiness was clearly visible on His most beautiful face).
By listening and seeing the boy's love for mother, the army man realizes his mistake and runs to
his mother and begs to pardon him and thus ends a beautiful drama which had some nice dance
sequences and a little bit of historical episodes that happened in Warangal District with a
mention of the great poet Pothana who translated the Bhagawatham in telugu... Swami was so happy
with the performance and asked for the car chair to be taken down the aisle. He spend good 10
minutes with the youth, sharing the love of thousand mothers, taking pictures with them, asking
them about their families, education, health's blessing them and smiling! It was a beautiful
scene and every one of us prayed to have such a blessed day to spend some precious time with our
beloved Lord which is always a sweet and memorable experience. Swami then asked for Sri Raghavam
Bhajan and the programme came to an end at 7pm. After the programme one should see the
bliss and joy of devotees of Warangal. Many of the group members are the poorest of the poor.
About 90% of them are here for the first time. 54 villages represented the Parthi Yatra group
out of whom many belonged to the tribal community whose source of income was the forest
products... All of them were wonderstruck for the grace and blessings Swami showered on them..
It was definitely a precious day. On the other hand Grama seva is in full swing. Swami with His
immense grace is touching thousands of hearts through His students. The ever loving, kind Lord
is a real boon for the Kali Age and what a great fortune to be born during His Era. Here are
some pictures from the grama seva which shows love and gratitude people have for Swami With best
wishes on the holy festival of Ramzan, tomorrow being Eid, hopefully Swami has lots of surprises
for tomorrow's evening session.. lets see what comes up.. Submitted to
SBOI-Group -
Om Sai Ram dearest Sai Family,
Hearty wishes on the occasion of Navarathri and Ramadan. Being a festive season, Puttaparthi is
gearing up with bubbling enthusiasm for the most awaited Dasara festival which is a hectic
affair especially in Parthi. Students from all the Campuses are here to participate in grama
seva which started today the 19th September. Apart from the students there is also a group of 20
youth from the UK headed by brother Puppet, who are the only non student community blessed by
Swami to participate in the grama seva programme which itself is a rare blessing. Sai Kulwanth
hall was beautifully decorated on this holy Navarathri festival and the crowd is bit more in the
recent past. This morning bhajans commenced at 9am and all the students and staff were wearing
white polo t shirts all set to go for the grama seva. As the bhajans started, Swami blessed the
august gathering at 10:15am as every one were eagerly awaiting the arrival of our beloved Lord.
Swami took a full round and came on to the dais wearing His beautiful smile, slowly looked at
all HIS students and called upon Mr. Bhaskar to know the details of the grama seva. At 10:30am
Swami signalled for the boys to leave for grama Seva and they readily accepted the divine
command. All the students, made a full round of the mandir and after prostrating before Swami
left for the most divine task of delivering the divine goodies to the needy in the surrounding
villages. Sisters from Anantapur campus need a special mention here as they pack the food the
whole night and last night one would be surprised to know that 30,330 packets of tamarind rice
each weighing around 300 grams, was packed apart from laddus. By knowing this figure one would
imagine the magnitude of this noble seva and if there is any one in this world who could do
this, it is our beloved Lord only...
This noble gesture of Swami has no words to express. Every year when students come to our houses
to give us Sarees, Dhoti and food from Swami, hearts are squeezed, tears rolled down. We heard
nothing like HOME DELIVERY before and DOMINOS, PIZZA HUT don't exist in our locality but it was
Swami who brought the idea of DOOR DELIVERY in our lives. It is a fortune of thousands of births
that we are blessed to get gifts from the Lord Himself right to our door step and that too just
before the holy Dasara festival which is a big one for all of us. Many a times it reminds, how
fortunate we are and Swami gives and gives but what we give to Him in return is something we are
not dare enough to disclose.
The first day of grama seva will cover Enumalapalli village, Super speciality hospital, Kotha
cheruvu and the grama seva will end on28th when the inmates of Prasanthi Nilayam campus will get
Swami's Prasad. With humble pranams at the Lotus feet of our beloved Lord..
"....As they left, Swami moved
into the Bhajan Hall where the Kalashasthapana was to take
place. This is the process by which the deity for the Navarathri is installed. He told the
priest there to begin the installation and the priest started chanting.
After five minutes or so, Swami
seemed to want the installation to be done soon but priest’s chanting continued. Another person
nearby who noticed this, made courage to ask the priest to hurry but the priest chose to do it
his way, systematically. Finally, with a smile Swami left to the Yajur Mandir....."
Read the full report with
photos
This evening, Bhagavan came for darshan at ten minutes to five and came into the bhajan hall
after His darshan round. T-shirts and caps for the men students and sarees for the women
students were kept there, for use during the village service programme starting tomorrow.
Inspecting the clothes, Swami gave instructions for the distribution. In the next hour, as the
bhajans went on, all the materials were distributed to the students and teachers by the
Registrar and former Vice-chancellor Sri S. V. Giri before Swami accepted Arati at six o'clock.
After the evening bhajans yesterday, Swami had asked Prof Anil Kumar to announce that this
evening, there would be a Burrakatha by the students. Accordingly, the costumed performers were
ready in the bhajan when Bhagavan came for darshan just before five o'clock. He came to the
bhajan hall, and after a couple of minutes of interaction with the group, came onstage to begin
their performance. The hour-long Burrakatha concluded with Swami interacting with all
the
artistes and accompanists, blessing them with clothes, with Prof Anil Kumar announcing that they
represented a "Bharat darshan" with students from all parts of India. Swami then asked for a
bhajan with alap following which He accepted Arati at half-past six. He moved to the interview
room, and after ten minutes returned to His residence in the car. more
details with photos below>>
Posted at 19:50 hrs. on 17th Sept 2009
When Bhagawan asked for an encore of “His Story” as Lord Rama in Burrakatha form, the evening on
Wednesday, 16th September turned out to become an epical evening with the sweet nectarous story
of Lord Rama got on stage in the immediate Divine Presence of Bhagawan.
The ever dedicated bunch of students of the University, whose commitment to Bhagawan knows no
bounds, was ever ready and they rejoiced singing the glory of the Lord of Treta, bringing
nostalgic memories of the illustrious twins of Lord Rama, Lava and Kusha who took to the streets
singing the sweet nectarous story of Lord Rama.
In an “epic battle” to re-establish righteousness on a firm footing, the epic of the yore, the
story of the glory of Lord Sri Rama enjoys a great run in the immediate Divine Presence of the
Avatar of the Age Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba in Prasanthi Nilayam.
The Lord who has painstakingly written the story of His previous incarnation in a much lucid
style that has revelations hitherto not made and nuances hitherto not discussed has always been
stressing greater importance to the epic. He says, “The Ramayana has been described as the story
of Rama, the ideal man. In fact every human, in a way, is Rama Himself, when he embodies the
ideals of Rama. Hence, it is imperative on the part of every individual to cultivate the ideals
of Rama. The Ramayana enshrines in itself the very essence of the dharma (righteousness) of the
individual, family, and society.” He further adds, “Though thousands of years have passed since
the story of Rama was first written, the inner story of the Ramayana is being enacted every
moment of our life.” …and in Prasanthi Nilayam, His story often takes rounds, acting as a
catalyst to bring awareness in the commoners on the ideal life lead by Lord Sri Rama.
Ramayana is one of the rarest of and most enchanting of the epics of India, most popular not
only in India but also the world over. Lord Sri Rama is attributed to be the
Maryadapurushothama, the most ideal being and by following His life story, mankind could benefit
immensely to develop in all aspects of life. The Adarsha Purusha, Sri Rama, was a virtuous ideal
son, an ideal disciple, an ideal brother, an ideal husband and an ideal ruler. No wonder, the
Lord Himself has painstakingly written the most illustrious story of the “Lord of Dharma” ruled
eons ago, as Rama Katha Rasa Vahini.
The trio, students from Sri Sathya Sai University, Sai Prabhakar, Aravind Sai along with Sai
Raghuram, currently pursuing his medical degree after completing post graduation at Sri Sathya
Sai University, has been parading their skills in the distinctive art form with blessings,
guidance and encouragements from Bhagawan and Prasanthi Nilayam has witnessed number of such
Burra Katha sessions over the past couple of years, enacting lives of illustrious souls,
disseminating greater messages to humanity, the latest being on the 24th August on the same
dais, and the story was the sweet story of Ramayana. The trio also had the rare blessing of
staging continuous shows for three to four days in the Divine Presence during this year’s Kodai
Sojourn in April.
It was the sublime story of the glory of the Avatar of Treta that was brought back into life
with expressive narration often intertwined with hasyam (by a clown character delivering comic
relief) and music and songs in between. The programme commenced with the traditional “Ganesha
Vandana”, “Bhaja Mansa Vigneshwaram…..” after receiving blessings from Bhagawan. This was
followed by garlanding of the performers by three designated students, a tradition followed,
before the trio went elucidating the glory of Ramayana.
What followed was the epic in a nut-shell, in typical Burrakatha style….an introduction on the
episode, a thematic song covering the episode followed by lucid narration. Starting from the
Lord’s birth the story evolves towards the various events narrated by Bhagawan Himself in Rama
Katha Rasa Vahini. Rama’s implicit obedience towards His father’s words and will, His life in
exile, winning Dharma by annihilating the demons and protecting the holy, devotion and
dedication of Lakshmana, Hanuman, Sabari, Guha and Jatayu etc. The story ends with a greater
message
to mankind that when man becomes close to God, he does not require or desire anything
materialistic. If he departs from Lord’s heart, he would be facing lots of obstacles, the apt
example being that of Mother Sita’s agony, when she was deluded by Mareecha turned golden
deer….and final narrative was that of the King’s return to Ayodhya as the mighty righteous ruler
par excellence, as The Dharma Swaroopa.
Though an encore, beautiful story of The Lord in presence of The Lord is ever a revamping
experience for the listeners, and diving deep into the ocean Ramayana is not alone a
refurbishing experience, but is an experience of our own existence, as Ramayana was not a myth
popularized for academic benefit but is the actual story of the Lord meant for every soul of the
universe to imbibe and inculcate in his or her lives to become an ideal one.
Photo Slide show
An engrossing one hour, the hall was quite attentive, while Bhagawan was onstage, in rapt
attention, witnessing His Own Story, now narrated by His Own Students. Ramayana depicts almost
similar scenes wherein the Little Beautiful Children of Mother Sita, the illustrious twins of
the Treta Age, Lava and Kusha went into the streets singing the story of the glory of Lord Rama,
their beloved father… The programme that lasted about an hour concluded with thunderous
appreciative applause by one and all.
Friday, Sept 11, 2009- SRI THIRUPPAVAI MAHOTSAVAM and SRI ANDAL KALYANOTSAVAM - Final Day
This morning, the preliminary worship for the Kalyanotsavam was held. As on the last two days,
the worship included the chanting of the thousand names, and today it was the Lalita
Sahasranamam. When the worship of the deities onstage reached the point of closing the curtain
at 9.20 am, the lady singers of the Brindavan bhajan group started leading bhajans. Just after
10 o'clock, the curtains were opened again and more Vedic hymns were chanted before Maha mangala
Arati at 10.20 am.
In the evening, Bhagavan arrived by 4.10 pm. He was preceded into the Sai Kulwant Hall by the
priests waving Chamaras bringing the idols in a procession for the marriage ceremony onstage.
The hour-long ceremony began soon after. Swami moved around the verandah and bhajan hall and
from the stage, moved down to sit facing the stage while the rituals went on. After the Aandal
Kalyanam concluded, Swami asked the students to sing bhajans at 5.40 pm. A couple of bhajans
later, He permitted the group of devotees to sing some songs relating to the Aandal
Kalyanotsavam. After half an hour of songs, Swami accepted Arati. Prasadam was then distributed
to everyone in the hall - tamarind rice, sweet rice, laddoo and obbattu.
More details below
Posted at 11:30 hrs. on 12th Sept 2009
Divinity ‘deserves’ the best and the occasion, The Divine Marriage of Lord Ranganatha with great
devotee Sri Andal, symbolically signifying Divinity’s acceptance of pure devotion, in presence
of the Mighty Avatar of the Age deserved the splendor befitting the grandeur of the occasion.
The final day, the final session of the three day Andal Kalyanotsavam had the gaiety and
splendor of a marriage, not ordinary, but of Divine stature. …And in the presence of the Mighty
Lord, the occasion turned out to become a splendorous heavenly treat for the thousands of
devotees congregated to witness the proceeding on the concluding day of the three day
Thiruppavai Mahotsavam and Andal Mahotsavam.
On the auspicious evening the stage was set for the symbolic ritual, representing the grand
culmination of Sri Andal’s Divine Romance with Lord Ranganatha of Sri Rangam.
Reflecting the grandeur of the occasion, resounding in its tenor, the venue bore the festive
look of a royal marriage. A large canvas of Sri Ranganatha’s supine posture in the ocean of milk
with Bhagawan ensconced in the centre was suspended in the central part of the hall. Bhagawan
came much early at 16:15 Hrs. and the proceedings started once He settled on the dais that was a
sight to behold.
Photo Slide show
Flowers and festoons of varied hues parading all over, collage of various fruits adorning
central stage of decoration, hanging from the top, huge bunch of coconuts covering the twin
pillars, artistic décor with coconut leaves adding beauty and aesthetic sense, the dais
reflected the unmatched glory of the Lord of all Lords whose presence was the richness of the
heavenly occasion of the Divine marriage on the auspicious evening. …And down in the spacious
Sai Kulwant, it was decoration all over, with scores of plantain trees posted at the periphery
of the hall, huge pillars draped in colourful floral buntings, apart from the normal
decorations.
The idols of Sri Rangamannar and Sri Andal were brought in separate palanquins with a regal
procession carrying the aesthetically decorated Idols. The symbolic procession that started
right in the centre portion of the spacious hall was typical simulating the royal grandeur of an
elephant carrying the Lord in procession, popularly known as "GajaNade", the traditional
elephant walk. The procession culminated at the dais, the venue for the marriage.
Bridal mysticism is one of the nine modes of relationships with the Lord where the relationship
is similar to that one between the bride and the groom. The soul of the devotee is the bride and
God is the Bridegroom; their union is recognised as the spiritual marriage. The great
outpourings of Andal to realise the Lord as her husband are full of this experience of Bridal
mysticism.
The marriage was performed to the chant of the Vedas. Every item that was offered to the Lord
and Sri Andal like Tambulam (banana, a pair of betel leaf and betel nut), Yajnopaveetam (sacred
thread), Kankan (protective thread worn in the hand) and Mangalyam (nuptial thread) was blessed
by Bhagawan. After garlands were exchanged between the two idols, Mangalyam was tied on Sri
Andal by the priests to the shower of flower petals. The magnificently decorated idols were then
placed together. Clothes blessed by Bhagawan were offered to the idols. All through the rituals
nadaswaram was played supplementing to the festive atmosphere.
After a few bhajans by the students of Sri Sathya Sai University, there was a garland of songs
presented by the group, claimed to be the “Students of Sri Sathya Sai Universe”. The songs sung
were befitting to the occasion. Starting with “Andal kalayana vaibhogame, Rangamannar kalyana
vaibhogame …”, they continued with “Sai Easwari, Sathya Sai Easwari jagat palini …”, “Sabkha
malik ek hai, Allah malik moula malik …” They concluded their presentation with a Tamil song
“Amma enral anbu…” (mother means love). Echoing their sentiments before the song, they said,
“You are always with us mother Sai; whenever we are in trouble, you are there to protect us.” At
the end of the session the group was blessed by Bhagawan. Sumptuous prasadam of bobattu (sweet
puri), laddu, tamarind rice and sweet pongal, in tune with the grandeur of the occasion, was
distributed to the huge gathering of devotees and students.
Photo Slide show
Earlier the morning function started with collective chanting of Sri Lalitha Sahasranama with
archana (worship). Then Panchamruta Abhishekam was done to the idols with ritualistic precision.
After the ceremonial oil bathing of the idols, the abhishekam (ceremonial bath) commenced with
milk, honey, turmeric, curd, vermilion and sandalwood paste.
As the abhishekam was in progress,
Vedic Mantras like Purusha Suktam, Sri Suktam and the remaining 21-30 pasurams were chanted by
the priests. After abhishekam, the idols were decorated with Tulasi (basil) garland. Arati was
offered to the idols after every abhishekam. The morning session concluded with bhajans and
arati.
It was a grand evening that witnessed the participation of the Lord in physical to the fullest
extent. One would wonder, where else on planet earth one could witness
such occasion other than
in Prasanthi Nilayam wherein the glory of the occasion multiplies to infinite proportions by the
mere presence of the Almighty Avatar of the Age, witnessing and sanctifying the grand occasion.
It was the turn of Sri Ramakrishna Iyer serving in the Publications Division of Sri Sathya Sai
Sadhana Trust to offer rose to Bhagawan this evening. Arati was offered to Bhagawan at 1815
hours before Bhagawan retired to His Divine Abode, Yajur Mandiram.
Today, the morning rituals proceeded like yesterday, with the Sathya Sai Sahasranamam being
chanted for the worship. Bhagavan came for darshan at 5.10 pm and sat onstage listening to the
Vedic chants after His darshan round. At 5.50 pm, the speeches for the evening commenced. Sri
Mylavaram Srinivasa Rao spoke on today's verses of the Thiruppavai in Telugu for 50 minutes.
Swami then accepted Arati as prasadam was distributed.
Comparing the body to an anthill, the speaker said that the body should be used to chant God’s
name. Rain or shine, the anthill remains intact. The anthill of body is the outer casing that
enshrines the precious Atma. So, the body should be put to good use. It is considered auspicious
to pour milk on the pit of an anthill on the day of Sashti in the month of Margasira. We should
consider that the act of pouring milk is to improve our Jnana (wisdom). The learned speaker said
that we should not cause grief to anyone. Oh Krishna, please dance on our heads as You did to
Kaliya, the serpent to vanquish its ego. May our evil qualities be eradicated! Samasta Lokah
Sukhino Bhavantu (May all the beings of all the worlds be happy!) was the motto of Goda Devi.
She wanted everyone to sing the name of the Lord and attain His grace.
It is only symbolic to sing Suprabhatam to wake up the Lord. In fact, the Lord never sleeps. It
is only that we are waking up our inner consciousness, said Dr. Srinivas Rao. 16,000 gopikas
were with Krishna, the vanaras were with Sri Rama, we are indeed fortunate to be with Bhagawan
and have His darshan (sight), sparshan (touch) and sambhashan (speech). Sri Andal coaxes the
gopikas sweetly, “Oh gopikas! Get up from your slumber, we are going to wake up Sri Mahavishnu
by singing His name.” In the 14th parsuram, Sri Andal says that we are going to have the darshan
of Kannan (Lord Krishna) in His beauteous form of Shanka (conch) and Chakra (discus) on His two
hands. She again exhorts the gopikas not to be slack. Sri Andal’s devotion to the Lord cannot be
matched by words. She pines repeatedly to have the darshan of the Lord.
The speaker said that we sing the glory of God early in the morning so that our whole day would
be spent in the contemplation of God in spite of our busy schedule going through our daily
rigmaroles. Dr. Mylavaram Srinivas Rao ended his speech by again offering his salutations to
Bhagawan and saying that the remaining 21-30 pasurams would be explained tomorrow.
Prasadam was distributed to all the devotees. It was the turn of Sri Sukumaran Nair from Sri
Sathya Sai Sadhana Trust, Publications Division to offer rose to Bhagawan this evening. Arati
was offered to Bhagawan at 6.55 p.m. after which Bhagawan retired to Yajur Mandir for the day.
More details below
SRI THIRUPPAVAI MAHOTSAVAM and SRI ANDAL KALYANOTSAVAM - 2nd Day
10th September 2009
Posted at 12:40 hrs. on 11th Sept 2009
The proceedings of the second day of this Mahotsavam started in the morning at 7.30 with puja
and parayana of 11-20 pasurams of Thiruppavai. This was followed by collective chanting of Sri
Sathya Sai Sahasranama (1008 names) Archana (worship). After Bhajan and Arati, the morning
session concluded.
The programme for the evening started with Nithya Puja. Bhagawan came at 17:10 Hrs. showering
benediction on the vast concourse of devotees. And onstage, the sight of the deity, Lord
Ranganatha, in reclining posture bedecked with golden ornaments and Godly attire, as "Divinity
deserves", was a sight to behold! The Lord was shining in splendour!
Coming onstage, Bhagawan blessed Sri Srikanta Rao to introduce the guest speaker for the day,
Dr. Mylavaram Srinivas Rao from Guntur. Dr. Srinivas Rao worked as Principal in his profession
and has given speeches on varied occasions to the Telugu audience on the inner significance of
Ramayana, Bhagavata, Lalita Sahasranama, Margasira Masa, etc. He regularly appears in programmes
for Maa TV, Doordarshan, ETV, etc. He is also credited for introducing the Ramayana and the
Mahabharata to the overseas audience.
Dr. Srinivas Rao began his speech by saying that he was offering his salutations to Sri
Ranganatha, who has come in the form of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The task at hand for the
erudite speaker was explaining the 11-20 pasurams of Thiruppavai. In the 11th pasuram, Sri Andal
exhorts people to get up early in the morning and sing the name of the Lord. Personifying the
eyes, ears, speech, feet, she says, “Oh chakshus (eyes), get up to have the darshan of the Lord,
oh ears, listen to the glory of God, oh faculty of speech, sing the name of God, oh feet, go and
chant the Lord’s name. Oh Gopikas, why are you still asleep, get up to sing the praises of the
Lord.”
The three day Thiruppavai celebrations got underway at Prasanthi Nilayam this morning. The idols
of Ranganatha, Bhoodevi (Andal) and Garuda were installed onstage and the worship began in Sai
Kulwant hall just after seven o'clock. Yesterday, Swami had blessed the people conducting the
rituals with ceremonial clothes which they wore today. On completing the rituals, a short
introduction to the three day programme was made in Telugu. Collective worship with sacred rice
grains on the plates supplied to all the devotees chanting the Vishnu sahasranamam completed the
morning rituals. The proceedings concluded after morning bhajans with Arati at 9.35 as Bhagavan
did not emerge from His residence. Later, He went for a drive at half-past eleven.
In the evening also, Swami came from Yajur Mandir in the car at 4.15 and went for a drive to the
Indoor Stadium before returning to Sai Kulwant hall after an hour. From the interview room Swami
came onstage 10 minutes later to begin the proceedings. Sri. N. Srikanta Rao delivered a
half-hour address in Telugu about Aandal (Godhaa devi) and her devotion. Bhajans then commenced
at 6 o'clock and prasadam was distributed before Swami accepted Arati and returned to His
residence at half-past six.
Posted at 11:20 hrs. on 10th Sept 2009
Andal, a Tamil saint is known all over the world for her unparalleled devotion to Lord Krishna.
She is said to be always immersed in her devotional ecstasy. Andal is known in the Tamil
language as an Alwar, one who is “immersed” in the depths of enjoyment of God. Of the twelve
Alwars, Andal is the only female Alwar of Vaishnavism. These saints revitilised the Tamil region
of South India between the fifth and ninth centuries by their dedicated devotion for the Lord.
She is credited with the Tamil works of Thiruppavai and Nachiar Thirumozhi which are still
recited by the devout in the month of Margasira. The Srivilliputhoor temple is dedicated to her
and is also her birthplace.
It is a well known fact that Mother Sita, the consort of Sri Rama was found in the royal gardens
of Mithila by Janaka Maharaja. Andal was born as the incarnation of Bhudevi in the garden of
Vishnuchittar under a Tulasi plant. Sri Vishnuchittar was endowed with the title of “Periazhwar”
meaning “the most enlightened who could rule over the Lord Himself.” Periazhwar raised Andal
with great love, affectionately calling her as “Godai (child of the earth) or “Kodai” (garland
of flowers) and enchanting her with stories of Krishna. As a result, Andal developed deep love
for Krishna and considered herself as God’s bride. This love for her Lord blossomed into the
immortal work “Thiruppavai.” Andal was so profoundly enthralled by the Bhakti of Gopis and the
deeds of Krishna in Mathura and Brindavan during the Dwapara Yuga (aeon) that she too
desperately wanted to immerse in the Divine experience.
Sri Thiruppavai Mahotsavam is a three-day programme culminating on the afternoon of 11th
September with Sri Andal Kalyanotsavam. Sai Kulwant Hall was elaborately decorated with flowers;
the periphery of the hall was punctuated with the portraits of the 12 Alwars. On the dais of the
hall was installed the lustrous idols of Sri Rangamannar in the centre and Sri Andal and Sri
Garudalwar on either side. The festivities began on the morning of 9th September 2009 at 7 a.m.
with Swasti Vachanam (in Krishna Yajus, there is a topic called Swasti Vachanam, which comprises
4 Anuvakas. These Anuvakas are recited during Utsava Parayana, accompanying the Acharyas and
such other occasions). Then the Prathishtaapana (ritualistic installation of the idols) and Puja
(worship) of the idols in the centre of the dais was done. Parayana of 1-10 Pasurams (an
eight-lined verse) of Thiruppavai was performed by the priests with devotional fervour.
Collective chanting of Sri Vishnu Sahasranama (1008 names of Vishnu) was then done by all
devotees present in the hall with Akshatas (sanctified rice) supplied by the organisers. The
morning programme came to a close with Bhajan and Arati at 9.40. The function is being conducted
by 7 priests headed by Sri Gopala Bhattar.
The proceedings for the evening started with Puja at 4.00. Bhagawan came to the hall at 4.15 and
proceeded to the Sri Sathya Sai International Centre for Sports. He returned to Sai Kulwant Hall
at 5.10 p.m. The speaker for the evening was Vidwan (scholar) Nidumaamidi Sri Srikanta Rao on
the inner significance of Thiruppavai. Offering his salutations to Bhagawan, the erudite speaker
said that Thiruppavai was suffused with Bhakti Rasa (essence of Bhakti). Beginning his speech
with the circumstances leading to birth of Sri Andal (explained earlier), Sri Srikanta Rao said
that Andal was called Choodikonda Nachiyar, since she wore the garland before it was placed on
the idol of the Lord. Sri Andal transformed herself into a Yadava girl of Mathura and beseeched
the Lord for His love. She undertook a vrata (vow) much similar to the Karthiyayani Vrata of the
Gopis of Brindavan beginning on the first day of Margasira (mid-December to mid-January) and
adorning each day of the month with a new Pasuram.
Sri Andal wanted all women to perform the Vrata and earn the grace of the Lord, said the
speaker. Thiruppavai is a mangalakara (sacred and auspicious) vrata. In Tamil language, this
text is very revered and placed on an exalted state. There is Advaita Tattwa in Thiruppavai
since she worshipped the Lord with one-pointed devotion, said the learned speaker. Thiruppavai
function is held for Loka Kalyanam (good of the world). There are 30 Pasurams in Thiruppavai, on
each day of the three-day function, 10 Pasurams will be chanted. Explaining the first Pasuram of
Thiruppavai – “Margazhi Thingal …”, Sri Srikanta Rao said that the month of margazhi (margasira)
is very sacred. Even Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita says, “Masaanam Margasirshohum” (among
the months, I am margasira). It is important for one to take a sacred bath. By sacred bath, the
learned speaker said is to take bath chanting the name of the Lord. If we do such vrata, we will
attain Narayana, he said. In the second Pasuram, Sri Andal further reiterates that one should
chant the name of the Lord contemplating on His form while taking bath and then do the vrata.
This vrata should be done to attain the grace of the Lord.
Continuing his speech, Sri Srikanta Rao said that in the third Pasuram, Sri Andal waxes eloquent
praises on the Vamana Avatar. He transforms Himself into virat swarupa (gigantic form), having
taken the form of a dwarf. Samasta jiva sukhino bhavantu! (may all individuals of all the worlds
be happy!) is the undercurrent of the sacred text Thiruppavai.
When Vishnuchittar comes to know that Sri Andal was wearing the garland before offering to the
Lord, he takes offence and feels that a sin was being committed all these days by not offering a
fresh garland to the Lord. He does not offer the garland to the Lord on that day. Lord Narayana
appears in the dream of Vishnuchittar that night and says that He wants only the garland worn by
Sri Andal. Such was the devotion of Sri Andal, opined the speaker. Even a small leaf, flower or
water offered with a sacred heart is enough for the Lord; He will accept it gladly.
Goda Devi, as Sri Andal was called used to beckon everyone to sing Nagarsankirtan in
Srivilliputhoor. While singing the name of the Lord, one should not think of worldly matters.
Lord Krishna says there are eight types of flowers like santhi pushpam, daya pushpam … One
should offer the flower of mind to the Lord.
Sri Srikanta Rao ended his speech by saying that the spiritual teaching of Andal Kalyanam was to
bestow peace, prosperity and happiness to the whole world. After a few bhajans, prasadam was
distributed to everyone present in the hall. This evening it was the turn of Sri Vaidyanathan
serving in the Book Stall of Sri Sathya Sai Sadhana Trust, Publications Division to offer rose
to the Lord. Arati was offered to Bhagawan at 6.15 p.m. Thus, ended the first day function of
Sri Thiruppavai Mahotsavam.
This evening, the idols for the Thiruppavai Mahotsavam and Aandal Kalyanotsavam to be held at
Prasanthi Nilayam from 9 to 11 September were arranged in the Bhajan hall. Swami came for
darshan ten minutes after the bhajans commenced at five o'clock and completing His darshan
round, sat onstage. At six o'clock, He accepted Arati and then came into the Bhajan hall. He saw
the idols and later interacted with some of the teachers there before returning to His residence
in the car. -
This evening, Swami's students who are working in His institutions were gathered in the Bhajan
Hall, praying to Him to bless them with an interaction. This 'Sai Sannidhi' group is now 175
strong and has been meeting on the Sunday near September 2, which is the anniversary of the
establishment of the Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust. Swami came for darshan just after five
o'clock and after His darshan round, came to the Bhajan hall where the gathering welcomed Him
with group songs.
As the songs went on, Bhagavan went around the hall, interacting with many of them. After
a couple of songs, Swami spent 45 minutes speaking informally to many of His former students,
who are now teachers and administrators. Sending clothes for all of them, Swami moved to the
stage as the bhajans began after the session just after six o'clock. After half an hour of
bhajans with prasadam being distributed, Swami accepted Arati and returned to His residence,
blessing all with both hands.
Thiru Onam dawned at Prasanthi Nilayam with Sai Kulwant hall and Yajur Mandir decked in festoons
and floral decorations. Swami was welcomed into the hall with resounding Panchavadyam by the
students and devotees and the girls' brass band of the Srisailam school as the bhajans went on
at 9.30 am. Small girls with traditional lamp plates lined Bhagavan's route. Once He sat onstage
after His darshan round, He listened to the bhajans for half an hour more before asking Prof.
Anil Kumar to announce that He would address everyone in the evening. Accepting Arati, Swami
went to the interview room for a few minutes before returning to His residence at half-past ten.
In the evening, Bhagavan arrived for darshan at 4.20 pm and after His darshan round went into
the interview room. A few minutes later, He came onstage and began the programme. The Kerala
state President introduced the speaker for the evening, Sri Jayakumar IAS, in-charge of
arrangements at the Sabarimala shrine. After his short speech, Swami commenced His Divine
Discourse at 4.45 pm. Reminding all of the story of Mahabali, He exhorted the people of Kerala
to follow Emperor Bali's example in upholding values. The 45-minute Discourse was followed by a
drama on Bhaktha Nandanar by the children of Sri Sai Vidya Vihar, Aluva. As the drama came to a
close at half-past six, Swami blessed one of the participants with a chain. Prasadam was
distributed after Bhagavan blessed the children with a group photograph. He then asked them to
sing a bhajan, following which He accepted Arati and returned to His residence at 6.45 pm.>> Read more details with photos
Tuesday, Sept 01, 2009 - Bhakta Thukkaram,
Dance Drama and Music by KS Chitra - Onam 2nd Day
This morning, Bhagavan came for darshan at ten minutes to nine, and in the evening
at ten minutes to five. He came directly to the stage and asked for the drama of the
evening to begin. The children from Sri Sathya Sai Vidyapeeth of Srisailam, Kerala,
presented a half-hour play on the saint Tukaram. After their play, the famous
playback singer Smt. Chithra presented
a 45 minute programme of songs. After her
programme, she brought up her child also for Bhagavan's blessings. Swami created a
chain for the child and put it on her neck. Swami had a group photo with the singer
and accompanists and Arati was then offered while prasadam was distributed. Bhagavan
then asked the students to sing a couple of songs with Alap after which He left for
His residence just before seven o'clock. Read more details - Onam Day 2 - 1st Sept 2009 - Photos and Report
