Prasanthi
Update - Sunday - February 28th Sunday morning was a
wonderful Day for the Devotees of the Adilabad District of
Andhra Pradesh as all the 2000 or so Devotees got Swami's
Padanamaskaram. After that Swami accepted Mangala Aarthi and
left for Yajur Mandiram at around 10.45 AM.
Bhagawan came for Darshan in the evening at around 4.50 PM
and Bhajans commenced at 5 pm, After a Fe Bhajans Swami
specifically asked for the Bhajan with the wonderful Aalap
"Sri Raghavam" which was melodiously sung. After a Few
Bhajans, Swami accepted Mangala Aarti at left for Yajur
Mandiram at around 5.45 pm.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy: K.M - 01.03.2009
UPDATE 23rd &
24th February, 2009-Shivarathri
In the Sanathana
Sanskriti or the Bharatiya culture, there are as many ways
to God as there are aspirants! And so it is that every form
and every name is venerated as Divine. “Cheemalo Brahmalo”
as the great saint-musician Tyagaraja put it, the Lord is
prevalent in the ant and the cosmos! In such a land, even if
one hour is dedicated for a particular diety, a whole year
would not suffice to worship even half of the forms revered
and ‘idolised’. In this scenario, just the importance given
and religious adherence to the festival of MahaShivarathri
in itself makes one realize that it is a very special
occasion in the annals of the Bharatiya spiritual heritage.
It is celebrated every year on the 13th night/14th day in
the Krishna Paksha (waning moon) of the month of Maagha (as
per Shalivahana) or Phalguna (as per Vikrama) in the Hindu
Calendar (that is, the night before and day of the new moon)
with great fervour and devotion.
Shivaratri at Puttaparthi has a long and fruitful history.
It dates back to 1945 when the Prashanthi Nilayam mandir was
being planned for construction. Swami personally was
immersed in all the details. There was a person by name,
Gooni Venkata, who was serving Swami. When Gooni Venkata (Venkata
with the hump) , dug at the spot indicated by Sai Baba, so
that consecrated stones could be laid as foundation, a large
number of stone bases used as stands for lingams (emblems of
the Form merging in the Formless, or emerging from the
Formless) were discovered! But strangely enough, no lingams
could be found, though a vigorous search was made. Dozens of
bases - but not a single lingam. People gathered round Baba
and sought the answer. Swami told them cryptically, pointing
a finger at his stomach, "The lingams are all here." Those
fortunate to be present at the abode of highest peace during
Shivaratri would have realized the secret behind Swami’s
action and the hideout of the missing lingams. The lingams
that emanate on successive Shivaratri days differ in number,
size and composition. Sometimes only one is formed; the
material is apparently sphatika, gold, or silver. Often
times there are more in number - three, five, seven, or
nine! Mostly they are about an inch and a half in height,
larger at times. This producing of the lingams is indeed a
unique and mysterious manifestation of the Divine Will.
Another awe-inspiring and profoundly spiritual ritual that
Baba performed on Shivaratri was the Vibhuti-abhisheka
(shower of sacred ash) to the silver idol of His previous
incarnation –Shirdi Sai Baba.
From that day to now, many things have changed, but the
atmosphere of devotion and austerity still remains. A huge
gathering converged in Prasanthi Nilayam during the
occasion, thoroughly unmindful of the inconveniences that is
natural for an assemblage of gigantic proportions, is an
apparent testimony to the inner urge of man to realise his
essential Truth. The enthusiastic devotees filled every inch
of space available in Prasanthi Nilayam from two days in
advance in the run up to the festivity. One could see long
disciplined queues making a beeline, much before the first
rays of the Sun peeped through the eastern horizon, to
ensure a place on the coveted occasion in the Sai Kulwant
Hall. At 7:30am, seated majestically on the golden raised
chair, Swami arrived and completed His darshan rounds. More
than 1000 youth had assembled in the hall to chant the
Rudram. Swami took a complete round and then moved to the
stage. Along the way, He blessed and cut a huge cake that
had been adorned with statues - the one of Rama worshipping
the linga being the most prominent. After lighting the
candle on the cake, Swami moved out on to the stage. He sat
listening to the Rudram chants that were looped over and
over again.
After a while, Swami got into His "orchestrator" mode. He
told the people chanting in the mikes to stop doing so. He
wanted to listen to the strength of the 1000 vocal chords-
and they did not disappoint. As the Vedic rumble shook the
hall, Swami continued to guide as He said that only those in
the back rows must chant. It is not unusual among youth to
become back benchers to get away with a lackadaisical
attitude. But here that was not the case! Those in the back
rows were there simply because all cannot sit in the front
rows! (Akin to the philosophy where even a good team loses a
game because there can be only one winner!) Building up the
crescendo, Swami once again opened the floodgates for the
vocal chords as He asked for all to chant in unison. The
Primary school students also arrived and joined in. The
chorus now seemed complete with the bass, midtones and
trebles rocketing high to chant the glory of Rudra on
Shivarathri. Wall calendars and prasadam was distributed to
all after being blessed by Swami. Swami accepted Arati just
after 9 am. Before retiring, Swami told all the youth and
students, "Go and eat well. Then sleep and come fresh back
here at 3:00". He told the same twice or thrice to different
people and it was such aa sweet sight to see Swami enact
those instructions as all were beyond the hearing range!
For the evening, anticipating a surge of devotees,
arrangements had been made to put up huge screens to show
the programmes live to those who could not have a good view
from their spot. Such screens were put on both sides,
ladies’ and gents’ in the Sai Kulwant Hall and a massive
screen was put up in the Poornachandra Auditorium too. The
youth from Karanataka had brought a huge ice-lingam, 5 feet
in height, at Swami's residence. It was after 4:15 pm that
Swami arrived and He had a complete look at the ice lingam.
The University brass band stood in complete attention to
escort Swami. But Swami had other plans. He asked the band
boys to make way and He proceeded towards the back entrance
of the Poornachandra Auditorium! The devotees had assembled
there and though a huge screen would show them their Lord,
all of us know that the thrill and joy of seeing Him in
person is something very special. There was a huge applause
and shouts of "Jai Bolo Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba Ji Ki
Jai" rented the air. Everyone were thrilled by this act of
Grace. Swami saw the devotees and blessed them with darshan
for about 5 minutes. Then He moved into the Kulwant hall,
led in procession by the brass band.
Swami was resplendent in a yellow robe, seated on the golden
raised chair, and just behind Him, the ice lingam in all its
majesty, was wheeled into the Hall. Swami arrived on stage
and asked for the ice lingam to be brought up front and
placed in such a manner so that all could see it. Then the
session began with an address by former Vice Chancellor Sri
SV Giri who dwelt upon the greater significance of the
sacred night, calling the festivity as a cultural
representation of the country, Bharath. Sri. V. Srinivasan,
All India President, Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations was
categorical in expressing the greater benediction that
befell on the capacity crowd assembled in Prasanthi Nilayam
to celebrate the festivity in His Divine Presence. The third
speaker, Mr. Ajit Popat gave an electrifying speech, an
appetizer warming up for the lofty Divine Discourse that was
in waiting.
As Swami asked for His mikes to be brought, there was a loud
cheer of joy and approval. What else can be better than
listening to Shiva on Shivarathri? Hailing Mother India and
her greater cultural heritage, Swami said that having been
born in Bharath, people of the country have the
responsibility to upkeep her cultural heritage. Referring to
the auspicious Shivarathri night, He was candid in
expressing that many nights that we pass could not be
compared with the auspicious Shivarathri Night. The holy
night should be utilized in chanting His Divine Name.
Exhorting to listen to the glory of Lord Shiva, He said,
when you spent the night in constant contemplation, it
verily becomes Shivarathri. Shiva is beyond physical form.
We assume Him a physical form out of our imagination. Hari
and Hara are beyond the physical.
Dwelling upon the story wherein Mother Parvathi, being
prodded by Goddess Lakshmi, questions Lord Shiva of His odd
credentials to be her husband, Bhagawan brought home the
point quoting Lord’s reply to Mother Parvathi that Lord was
beyond names, caste and lineage; He has no name and no form;
He is changeless; He has neither birth nor death; neither
beginning nor end; He is eternal and Atma Swarupa. Talking
about the greater importance of meditation, He said one
should advance through the three levels of concentration,
contemplation, and thereafter Meditation. Meditation is
resulting out of a steady unwavering mind. True identity
with the Divine could be achieved only by sacrificing action
leaving the feeling of doer ship. May you experience any
amount of discomforts, never give up the consciousness. As a
prerequisite to attain peace one needs to start with Sathya
and Dharma by rooting out all negative tendencies/qualities.
Referring to all the criticism being poured unto Him, He
asserted that He is not affected by any of them and He
remains to be the same. He only has Love to give back to all
of them as he does not have any trace of hatred or anger.
Bhagawan exhorted the assemblage of devotees to follow the
path of Sathya and Dharma and to Love All and Serve All.
When Sathya joins Dharma there comes Prema…While singing
Prema Muditha Manase Kaho…think of Him, meditate upon His
Name wholeheartedly with Love. He concluded the Divine
Discourse calling upon the devotees to Be Happy.
The discourse concluded and Swami asked for the bhajans to
begin. Swami wanted the Aarthi to be performed! The priest
went in to get the Aarthi apparatus. Meanwhile a member of
the bhajan group requested Swami for the chance to sing
bhajans all night. Swami then smiled and agreed. (It was
with goose-bumps that a realization comes over us. Many a
times we take things for granted as "they are scheduled" -
like the chance to sing bhajans throughout the night at
Prashanti Nilayam. Every darshan or every bhajan session is
a Divine gift being showered on us. Small acts like Swami
asking for the Aarthi even before the bhajans can begin
remind us and awaken us to the great good fortune we are all
receiving! And so the bhajans began. Swami sat for a few
bhajans and then retired into Yajur Mandir even as the
bhajans went on in the Kulwant hall.
The next morning, Swami arrived in magical maroon! The
blessing of seeing Him in this attire first, once again went
to the devotees waiting eagerly in the Poornachandra
auditorium. Swami sweetly made His way towards them and
granted darshan there before heading to the Kulwant hall. By
8:30am, Swami was amidst the students in the centre of the
hall. There, He was 'informed' of the prasadam that had been
kept ready at the northern gates of the hall. He moved down
towards the main gate and blessed the prasadam. Taking a
bunch of holy grass, Swami sprinkled water on all the bowls
containing tamarind rice and laddoos. He spent about 5
minutes with the 'prasadam' and the people blessed to
distribute it. Swami then moved to the stage area through
the gents side. He sat listening for a few more bhajans
after which the grand Mangala Aarthi was performed. Swami
then personally supervised the distribution of prasadam to
all. Many broke their fast with Swami's prasadam.
Beautiful minutes ticked by as Swami sat silently watching
all who were eating. The devotees were contented looking at
their Lord and so was the Lord looking at His devotees.
Swami told a few people to start eating. The photographers
in front were busy capturing these beautiful moments. Swami
told them also to eat. When they continued shooting, Swami
sweetly asked, "Why? Is the prasadam not tasty or cooked
well?" Immediately, the cameras were put down and the
prasadam given importance! The food prayer was chanted
twice, once by the University students and once by the
Primary school students. Swami seemed to relish watching
everyone eat. One could feel the message, "Aham
Vaishvanarobhutva Praninaam Dehamaashritaha" - I am the One
inside all who digests the food. After sitting onstage for
nearly forty-five minutes during the prasadam distribution,
Swami returned to His residence.
Trust God with your everything
Shared by Mukesh Patel on 01.03.2009
UPDATE_21/02/09_ The sudden shower of Grace
This being a long weekend culminating in Shivarathri,
Prasanthi Nilayam is filled to the brim with devotees. There
was a sweet pleasant surprise for all the devotees gathering
here and it was personally planned by Swami. As usual, the
bhajans had begun and were on in full swing. Swami completed
the darshan rounds and after sitting for a few bhajans,
called out to Mr. Ajit Popat, the "puppet" as he calls
himself. It was a surprise for everyone. Offering his
salutations, Mr. Popat learnt that Swami wanted him to
address the gathering. In his inimitable style, beginning
with the now famous, "Namaste Premaroopaya" poem, Mr. Popat
spoke with energy and gusto for about 45 minutes. Swami
advised him to speak long and strong! He spoke on the joy of
being in the Divine presence.
After that, there seemed to be a slight confusion! Swami
told Popat that more should be spoken. So he promptly obeyed
and came to the mike. Then Swami said, "I'll speak." Mr.
Popat said over the mike, " It is only Swami who speaks. I
am just a puppet!" Swami then said again that He wanted to
speak. It was with a thunderous applause that devotees woke
up to the beautiful fact that there would be a flow of
nectarine words from the Divine lips! Swami began to speak.
The Bharatiyas are like the elephant which does not know its
own strength. It gets trained by the mahout and meekly sits
down or gets up as commanded. Following the foreign culture,
the Bharatiyas are forgetting their own culture which is so
sacred, noble and immortal. How can you call yourselves
Bharatiyas if you forget thus? It is said to treat one's
Mother, Father, Preceptor and Guest as God. If you forget
the mother who is also the first Guru, what use is life
then?
We speak for hours because we see changes all around. The
Jagat(world) is negative. All that we 'see'- the forests,
the cities - all are negative and a product of your
imagination- the reflections of your mind. The Atma is
positive, the Nayaka or leader. There is nothing other than
the Atma. Where is the Atma? Mamaivamsho Jeevaloke
Jeevabhootha Sanathana - The entire Universe and beings that
are seen are parts of the Atma. That is One with no second.
Duality is only an imagination and hence it is said that a
man with dual mind is half blind. Only One exists and that
is only known as the Sahasra Sheersha Purusha.( One with a
thousand heads.) But today, you are dividing the heads! For
Unity to be achieved, you need Purity. For Purity you need
to realize the inherent divinity in all.
Never forget the inherent unity. Even the Taittriya
Upanishad stresses on the Atmic principle. Without that,
there is no existence. Everything is a mere reflection of
that. Whatever be the caste creeed or country, there is only
one Atmic principle. Rama, Krishna and others came. Their
bodies, however, lasted only a while. Nothing is permanent.
Nothing in the Jagat is the Truth. However great one may
become, he is not permanent. Only the Atma is permanent.It
has neither beginning, nor end. That Consciousness is truth
and Existence. Everyone here is a form of the Atma.
Forgetting that, you imagine the ephemeral as permanent. All
that is a hallucination and it leads to plurality. Only the
Atma is Satya (Truth) and Nitya (Permanent).
We undergo changes as we move from infancy to childhood to
adulthood. But we remain the same! We should have faith in
that changeless reality. Man today is immersed in changing
things. A true Manava (man) is one who is changeless. And to
achieve that, Self- Confidence is needed. You know that
Abraham Lincoln was born poor; other students in the school
treated him contemptuously when he went to school wearing
torn clothes. His friends mocked and jeered at him. He
became sad and ran to his mother who consoled him thus,
“Child do not cry. The world is like this, but just don’t
you pay heed to it. Have Atma Vishwasam. (Self-Confidence).”
That word struck deep inside. As a result, he became the
President of America. Before occupying the seat of the
President, he prostrated to his mother; he knew that he
could rise to such a high position only by his mother's
advice and blessings. Everyone were surprised and the
friends too were amazed - a poor boy became the President
only by implicitly obeying the Mother and developing
Self-confidence. The mother was a tailor by profession and
she charged a dollar or half for clothes that she stitched.
Her blessings and good wishes ensured that he completed a
successful 5 years.
There is nothing great in studying. Teachers and books will
help you do that. Self Confidence is important. The nine
fold path of devotion is of no use if there is no self
confidence. Cultivate that. Even if you have big friends,
there is no use. Help ever, hurt never. And the Mother's
teaching is the greatest help. That is why the mother is
worshipped. Never disobey her command. Her love will always
be with you, around you, above you, below you and in you.
People think they are big an they forget their mother. They
treat her like servant maids. Let her say anything, you must
follow it. The mother alone is the true teacher; all others
are mere helpers. There is no greatness in staying abroad or
earning money. Follow the mother and all problems will
dissolve. Otherwise life is a total failure. To follow the
mother's command is the main goal of life. And one must do
this not as a duty; but out of love.
In Bharat, never consider the woman as insignificant. None
actually comprehand the power of a woman. Savitri brought
back her dead husband to life while Sita passed through the
test of fire. It is the chastity of the woman that brings
greatness to the country. Bharat is great and it has
survived all the problems. It is a land of merit and glory.
You are all so special, having been born in BHarat. See that
you fulfill that boon. High grades are not needed. Have the
culture of Bharat and life will be a victory. It may not
have the affluence of the west but it enjoys spirituality
and sanctity. Thus, the Bharatiyas enjoy great bliss. To get
this, people from everywhere else come to Bharat. It is the
spiritual power that attracts.
There are three stages- Concentration,
contemplation and meditation. It does not mean just sitting
steady, but steadying the mind. Concentration is like
primary school. Contemplation is secondary school while
meditation is the University level. Then you should get good
degrees. You become true students only after reaching the
meditation level. That is the state of ever steadiness. From
God's point of view, you do not need high % of marks, but
meditation to pass!
Dear students, do not crave for first class. Marks are not
that important. Ensure that you do not get remarks. True
marks is determined by your self-confidence.
Swami concluded with Hari Bhajan Bina. After His hour-long
Discourse, Swami accepted Arati and returned to His
residence in the chair itself, accepting many letters on the
way.
Trust God with your everything
Shared by Mukesh Patel on 28.02.2009
26 FEBRUARY 2009
- DARSHAN UPDATE
Om Sairam dearest Sai Family,
After a powerful Shivarathri celebrations and a power packed
three PUPPET shows from brother Ajit Popat it was the turn
of Swami's students to steal the show. This afternoon, the
students of class 10 and 12 were blessed by Swami to share
their heart breaking and hair raising stories with Swami and
some incidents during their stay in the School. There were
three students who introduced the audience the day's
programme. Swami signaled for the programme to start. One
student rose from his seat and in pure Sanskrit thanked
Swami for giving him the opportunity to study in His
institution and asked for His blessings to continue to be
His instrument and Swami was so impressed that He responded
with a sweet smile.
Later there was one student who rose and shared his story.
17 years ago one mother was pregnant. It was very difficult
for the mother and the baby had to be born prematurely. The
mother's father who was an anesthetist gave anesthesia and
the baby's father who was also a doctor gave the treatment.
The baby was born, blue in colour with leg not in good
shape. All of them offered prayers to Swami and the baby
whom they all thought would die, turned to pink and the leg
got back to normal.
After a week or so the grand father who came for Swami's
darshan, was confirmed by Swami Himself that He was the one
who gave His helping hand on that day. The very same boy who
was now 17,speaking before Swami, thanked Swami for giving a
re birth and not just re birth but a golden chance to study
in His institution There was another boy who rose and said,
Swami on one evening my mother brought me to this very same
Kulwanth hall. I was just 2 years then not knowing exactly
who You were, I was told that there is one Baba who is God.
All of them were waiting for Swami and when Swami came out
the boy who was just 2 years old started saying loudly to
his mother, Mother! Baba's hair is so beautiful. Mother
tried to silent the baby as one has to maintain silence
during darshan. The boy was in no mood to be silent and
definitely not so after seeing those beautiful hair.
Swami directly came to the boy and gave a beautiful smile.
The boy amidst loud applause and making every one smile,
said, Swami 17 years after that incident, even today Your
hair is so beautiful and it was a treat to watch Swami when
the boy told that to Swami. Swami didn't feel shy but it was
an expression closer to that....Swami is such a charmer many
a times He seems to be very much human..
Another boy rose from his seat and when he shared this story
it was very emotional and brought tears to many of us. he
said, Swami, one 9 month old boy suddenly had a very high
temperature. He was the only boy to the parents. The
temperature was so high that the boy suddenly stopped
crying. the eye balls went up and the body was motionless.
Not knowing what to do , the mother ran up to the puja room
praying to Swami she said, Swami! he is the only child for
me please save him and Swami assured the mother that all
will be ok. In 10 minutes the baby got back to normal..
Amidst loud applause and dampened eyes.. the boy said..
Swami!! the same baby after 17 years is standing before you
offering humble salutations at your lotus feet for your
kindness to listen to a mother's prayer .Another boy sharing
his story said, it was on the first day in primary school. I
was badly missing my mother and was crying the whole night.
Suddenly my mother appeared right next to me and she made me
sleep. The next Sunday when my parents came to see me I
shared the incident and thanked my mother for coming and my
mother was in tears. She knew it was Swami who came in her
form to console her baby. The boy narrating this incident,
got very emotional and hearing his shivering voice made all
of us more emotional. Swami blessed the boy by raising His
hand and it was just beautiful to watch the whole episode.
Now it was the turn of a overseas boy whose brother is also
studying here. It so happened during some sports rehearsal
Swami called the boy and asked where is your brother to
which the boy replied my brother is in the sports rehearsal.
The next day during darshan, Swami asked his brother the
same question and the boy replied Swami I was in the sports
rehearsal. Now Swami calls this boy and asks where is your
brother? The boy who was now little bit surprised and
confused said, Swami you just spoke to my brother to which
Swami said, no ALL ARE YOUR BROTHERS. Just an example how
Swami teaches equanimity in a simple way.
The boy later sang few Telugu lines from Humko Tumse Pyar
kitna bhajan Neevu leni maa jeevanam (a life without you)
neeru leni chepa vedanam (is like that of a fish out side
water). Needu choope prana samanam (your one look is full of
life) Meedi maadi Oke bandamu (our relationship is only one)
Adiye prema bandamu (that is the bond of LOVE). Swami was so
impressed by those lines and smiled back at the boy..
It was just beautiful to see the students share their
stories and also a treat to watch Swami's expressions when
His students thanked Him for all that He has done for them.
Swami then called the principals and had a bit lengthy talk
with them. Swami seemed very very happy and He came down all
the way from the stage to take pictures with His CHOSEN
ones. After 2 bhajans arathi was given to Swami, thus ending
a beautiful day full of SAI LOVE..
Right now there are about 2,500 devotees from Adilabad
district from the state of Andhra Pradesh on a three day
Parthi Yatra. Swami has blessed them by permitting to
perform before Him play today so another extended darshan
session is in the offering..
Thank you Dear
Lord...With humble pranams at your Lotus Feet
R Satish Naik
sent on 27.02.2009
Prasanthi
Update - Maha Shivarathri evening Programme
On the evening of Shivarathri, Sai Kulwant Hall was filled
to the rafters and not able to hold all the Devotees so it
resulted in Poornachandra Hall being opened to accomodate
the very heavy rush.
Swami came for Darshan in a Wonderful
Yellow Robe at around 4.35 pm in a wonderful Procession led
by the Sathya Sai University. Swami was seated on a raised
Golden Chair and everyone could have wonderful Darshan.
After listening to Veda chanting for sometime some wonderful
Speakers like Sri S. V. Giri, former Vice Chancellor of Sri
Sathya Sai University, Sri. V. Srinivasan, the All India Sai
Organisations President, and Sri Ajit Popat from the United
Kingdom spoke before Swami's Divine Shivarathri message.
The Full Text of Swami's Discourse will be posted later..
After Swami's Discourse concluded at seven o'clock,
Shivarathri bhajans commenced in Kulwant Hall. Bhagawan
returned to Yajur Mandiram after about 15 minutes.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy: KM - Tuesday, 24 February, 2009 10:28 AM
Prasanthi
Update - Maha-Shivarathri Morning Darshan
Today morning Swami came to Kulwanth Hall in a wonderful
Golden Chair which was raised as everyone could have a
wonderful Darshan on this most Auspicious Shivarathri Day.
After Swami went around for Darshan, Swami went into the
Interview and came on the stage after about 40 Minutes.
Swami then listened to the wonderful Veda Chanting of the
Students and also the Karnataka Youth. which was incredibly
wonderful to hear on this most sacred day.
After the Programme Prasadam was distributed to all after
being Blessed by Bhagawan. Mangala Aarthi was taken at
around 9.05 AM and Swami returned to Yajur Mandiram.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy: KM - posted on Monday, 23 February, 2009 5:37 PM
IT’S ME…LORD
SHIVA!!!
There were
serpentine queues in every SHIVA temple on the eve of
SHIVARATHRI. Seeing all this, PARVATHI asked LORD SHIVA,
“Just look at those thousands of devotees thronging your
temple to have your DARSHAN. Many of them stay awake during
the night; keep fast, sing Bhajans and so on. You must be
really please with their devotion.”
The LORD always likes to test his devotees to check if the
devotion is strong enough. Just like how we feel the nail
and try to move it after it is hit on a wall to hang a
picture frame!
The LORD said to his consort, “Poor devotees! They’re
braving the crowds unmindful of the pull and the push
waiting to have my glimpse. They don’t realize that I’m
their ‘indweller’! Anyway, let us go down & give them our
darshan.” PARVATHI agreed to this suggestion and both of
them decide to go & give darshan in their original form
itself! So they picked out a temple that had the maximum
crowd and started moving along with the crowd smiling at
them & blessing them.
The people started laughing at SHIVA & PARVATHI & said,
“What a beautiful costume you people are wearing? From which
drama troupe have you come? Are you both going to give a
play here in this temple?” they asked.
SHIVA said, “It’s me…LORD SHIVA! We’re real. We thought we
would come and give you live darshan so that you don’t have
to put up with hours & hours of waiting just to have my
glimpse inside the temple.”
The crowd roared in laughter & seemed to enjoy the show.
“Fantastic piece of make up. Is that snake for real?’
somebody asked. Another asked PARVATHI, “WOW! Look at those
jewels. If they’re real, they should be worth a few crores!!!”
People continued to push their way through the queue to get
inside the Sanctum Sanctorum.
PARVATHI said to the people, “We can perform whatever
miracle you want us to do because we’re really what we claim
to be. What proof do you want?”
To that somebody said, “Turn this temple into GOLD. In fact
anything that is metallic should turn into GOLD. Can you do
that?” Everyone joined the chorus. Yes, yes. Turn this
temple into GOLD. The people started mocking them &
ridiculing them.
SHIVA just smiled & the next moment the entire temple
complex was glittering with GOLD!!! “Is this real?” some
people asked. People who had coins in their hands realized
that even the coins had turned into GOLD. There happened to
be a GOLDSMITH there who shouted excitedly, “Hey! This is
all real. No doubt at all. IT IS ALL SOLID GOLD!!!”
Then pandemonium broke loose. People started running all
over the place trying to take whatever was loose outside the
temple compound.
PARVATHI asked SHIVA, “Instead of taking our blessings and
considering it their fortune to have seen us and getting
liberated from this cycle of birth & death, why are they all
running here and there?”
SHIVA told her, “They’re not only taking the GOLD that’s
there but also getting whatever metallic objects they can
lay their hands on, like vessels, coins, tools & so on. Then
they would ask us to turn them into GOLD as well!!! Having
said that, SHIVA & PARVATHI just vanished and all the GOLD
came back to its’ earlier original metallic form leaving
everyone shell shocked trying to figure out what had
happened!!!
PS: During RAMAYANA that happened in ‘TRETA YUGA’ only a few
recognized LORD RAMA as GOD! Same in the case of KRISHNA
AVATAR during DWAAPARA YUGA! There were people who abused
SHIRDI SAI BABA in his life time and SATHYA SAI BABA as
well.
We don’t know whether we were there during RAMA AVATAR nor
do we know whether we lived during KRISHNA AVATAR’s time. We
also don’t know whether we were alive during ADI SHANKARA or
SRI RAGHAVENDRA or SHIRDI SAI BABA’s time. (To name a few)
But today the WORLD has RECOGNIZED
& EXPERIENCED the presence of a POORNA AVATAR in SATHYA SAI
BABA in PUTTAPARTHI! !! The tens of millions who’ve been
going there for the last 68 years have clearly understood
that the SECRET OF LIBERATION ITSELF IS PRESENT THERE.
Posted by Sai Gurukulam on account of
Maha-Shivarathri on 23.02.2009
Taken From
Various Shivarathri Discourses of Bhagawan
Shiva is called
Nilakantha, or the one with the Plain Blue Throat, this
happened because He Drank the Poison that came from the
ocean which would have destroyed everything in the Universe.
The Poison is in the Middle part of the Shivalinga meaning
the part where Vishnu Resides meaning Sustenance, He drank
the Poison to sustain the Universe, The most holy river
Gangadevi flows from his matted hair which means that It is
the Purest Form of Everything in the World.
The Sun, Moon and stars form his crown symbolising the World
is with Him. As Nataraja, His Tandava is the cosmic dance
which controls everything in the World. The World dances to
His Rhythm.
Shiva as Shankara is the one who gives Joy to everyone, As
Shambunatha he is the One in whom Joy resides.
As Maheswara he is the one from whom all Knowledge emanates.
His Great Vahana Nandeswara represents the Lord of all
Animals and also Represent Dharma.
This is what Shivalinga Means, It is the Purest Form in the
Universe which sustains everything. - Swami
Posted by KM on 23.02.2009
Prasanthi
Update - 21st - Evening Session
As more and more Devotees gather for the Shivarathri
Festival, Kulwanth Hall is filling up faster by the minute
which has led to people standing for a Divine glimpse of our
Lord.
Today evening as Swami came for Darshan asked Mr Poppet to
speak. Bhajans were stopped as Mr. Popet spoke wonderfully,
but there was another great Surprise as Swami started His
Divine Discourse to the absolute delight of everyone and
also spoke for nearly an hour.
The Salient points of Swami's Discourse were :
1. Swami wonderfully spoke about the importance of Indian
culture. Swami said that Indian culture is a great and
shining example for the world to follow. The most important
aspect of Indian Culture is the is the chastity of Women.
2. Swami also spoke about self confidence and continuously
stressed that if anyone has faith in himself, he could
achieve anything in life. Swami quoted the example of
Abraham Lincoln and his mother, Swami wonderfully stressed
that if (we follow) our Mother's words and deeds it will
always lead to success.
3. Swami said that even though people talk of meditation, it
is actually third in the ladder. The first two being
Concentration and Contemplation. Swami said that
Concentration is like the Level in the Primary school,
Contemplation in the High school and Meditation in the
Degree college. To attain that degree, one has to work hard
and cross these 3 steps.
After singing melodiously Hari bhajana bina Sukha...Swami
further said that whatever be the name one has to keep
chanting the Divine name as it is only that will lead you to
all success. God will bless you with that success in life.
The wonderful evening session ended at by 7.15 PM.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy: KM - Saturday, 21 February, 2009 8:47 PM
Prasanthi
Update - Another Hungarian Programme
Yesterday Bhagawan gave another wonderful chance to the
Devotees from Hungary to put up another Programme. The
Programme was wonderful and the Devotees sang some Lovely
songs in chorus and with so much devotion and great
enthusiasm and with one one voice. They also sang our
Bhajans which was wonderful.
One could see How thrilled and happy Bhagawan was. Swami
created a chain for 2 Devotees - a lady and a gent. Swami
also distributed some items to all the Devotees who
participated in the Programme which made the whole evening
so very wonderful.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy: KM - Saturday, 21 February, 2009 10:32 AM
Prasanthi
Update - Monday 16th February
Yesterday was a wonderful and a blessed day for the Devotees
from Hungary. There are a very large number of Hungarian
Devotees who had come to have the Lord's Blessings and to be
in His Divine Presence for a few days.
To their Great Delight and Happiness, Swami had very
graciously agreed for their Music Programme. Swami also made
Shri. Chakravarthy announce on Sunday evening that the
Hungarian devotees will perform on Monday. Swami also told
him to announce that these Devotees are also so very devoted
and are a disciplined lot. The people were so happy
yesterday and today their Music Programme was wonderful.
They sang their hearts out for the Lord. Though many could
not understand the meaning of the words, each and everyone
could feel the language of their heart and yearning for the
Lord..
Swami was very happy, and gave away sarees to all ladies and
white safari dress material for the gents. He also spoke to
some people, took letters and blessed some CDs, etc.. After
taking Mangala Arathi Swami retired to Yajur Mandiram at
around 6pm. Om Sai Ram
Courtesy: KM - 17.02.2009
Swami's Divine
Discourse in Muddenahalli - Salient Points
What a Wonderful Divine Discourse did Swami give Yesterday
during the laying of the Foundation stone for the
Muddenahalli campus of the Sathya Sai University. All of you
must have also read the wonderful Description by Sai Brother
Satish Naik on the Programme there, We are always grateful
to him for sending the wonderful updates.
The following are the wonderful points of Swami's Divine
Discourse :
LOOK WITHIN
YOURSELF ALWAYS :
Everyone has to look with in and realise the Atma and to
give all the children this knowledge I have decided to open
up a campus here. That is one and Only Desire.
I HAVE OPENED THIS CAMPUS TO TEACH THE STUDENTS THE
HIGHEST KNOWLEDGE :
There is no one and
not many who are chanting Rama, Krishna etc. To teach the
students the highest form of Knowledge and to make them
fully aware of the teachings and significance of the
Ramayana and the Gita I have opened up this new campus. The
Knowledge imparted here will help them to become better and
noble citizens of the country.
WHEN I GIVE A TIME FRAME FOR ANYTHING, IT IS BOUND TO
HAPPEN :
Everyone should know about GOD. Everyone has to practise and
share all the Knowledge about God. In 6 months this Campus
will be ready. No one can give a Time frame like i have.
When I will it is bound to happen.
SUPER SPECIALITY HOSPITAL MIRACLE :
In Prasanthi Nilayam the Super hospital was opened within a
year's time. I announced that it will be ready by November
23. There was heavy rain the day before the opening. There
was mud and big pits everywhere. No one thought that the
Hospital would start as a few more equipments were to be
brought in for the operation to commence. But a big truck
with all the necessary equipments arrived and it was 11 p.m by
then. Doctors were called upon and on the first day 3
operations were performed. All operations were successful
and the patients were discharged in 5 days.
ALWAYS KEEP GOD IN YOUR MIND :
In Today's world everyone are in search of God. God is no
where else but within you. Only God's grace can change the
whole world. Always keep God in your mind. Only God can
change the World. Treat yourself as a servant and not a
master.
WHEN I DECLARE SOMETHING, IT WILL HAPPEN :
Next year on 14th February I will come for the opening of
this new campus. Don't worry about money. When Lakshmi is in
My heart, there won't be any shortage of money. I don't ask
any body for money and you also should not ask anyone for
Money. When I declare something it is bound to happen. All
will be Surprised when I finish a task.
Always have faith in God. All your worldly problems will be
solved.
NEVER EVER
FORGET YOUR PARENTS, SERVE THEM, LOOK AFTER THEM :
Don't forget your parents are God. They should never shed
tears. God will give everything to children who take of
their parents.
Always get good name to your parents and give them all the
happiness. That is what I want from everyone. Do you think
Swami's happiness is different from your happiness.. no..no..
Your happiness is always My Happiness. If you are happy and
give happiness to parents I am always Happy.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy: KM - Sunday, 15 February, 2009 11:47 AM
A DRIVE WITH
SWAMI TO MUDDANA HALLI
Om Sri Sai Ram dearest Sai Family,
Muddanahalli the beautiful place discovered by Swami, rather
invented by Swami, was blessed by His divine visit this
morning to lay the foundation stone for the new university
campus which will be affiliated to Sri Sathya Sai University
thus summing up to 4 campuses. A small village in the foot
hill of beautiful Nandi hills, 5 kms from Chickbalapur was
beautifully decorated on the occasion of the Divine visit.
It was my first visit to this beautiful place which I did
not think it would be so beautifully beautiful.
Swami out of His immense grace blessed me with an
opportunity to follow His car and it was first of its kind
SAI adventure and it was full of fun. It also depicted the
love of devotees for Swami and the kind of love He tends to
shower on His dear ones..
All the way it was just a reflection of Sai Love. The car
started from Puttaparthi. All the devotees were very much
sure that Swami would be going for a day to Muddanahalli.
All the streets were lined up with eagerly waiting devotees
with happiness on their faces to have a closer look at the
Son of Holy Puttaparthi, Our beloved Lord. It was not an
emotional one as it usually is, because all knew He would be
gone only for a day. At 8:45am Swami came out for darshan
and after quick arathi and while it was still going on,
Swami came out to the streets of Puttaparthi.
All the Hospital inmates (except the patients) were eagerly
waiting for Swami at the hospital area. All faces lit up
after seeing Swami. Swami's car now passed by the villages
and the people were very happy to see Swami.
Swami was traveling in Toyota Innova seated on the rear end
and there were few more Toyotas of the same colour in the
convoy and it was little bit confusing for the devotees
waiting on the road to pick the right Toyota and to add to
the confusion Swami's regular Porte car was also there. Many
were left guessing after all the cars passed by..
Swami slowed down a bit near Bagepalli to bless the
Orphanage and old age home. and in no time we were in
Chickbalapur, the familiar coffee halt for all the devotees
coming to Parthi. Muddanahalli is about 5 kms from there.
Just as we crossed Chicbalapur we took a right turn and huge
flexi banners welcoming Swami and also small arches with
beautiful floral decorations were seen. The first one read
Hoping for your Divine visit very soon. That's the
expectation we all have. Swami's darshans can never be
ENOUGH.
From the busy streets of Puttaparthi, to the dusty roads and
then to a not UPTO the mark highway we entered the premises
of Muddanahalli which is in a very quiet environment, away
from the dust and smoke. Like the atmosphere, even the
people there were very sweet. The first sight of the
beautiful place made me feel as if I was taken to a hill
station.
All the way, people were standing some singing bhajans, some
giving arathi, some with padukas, some holding large photos
of Swami of course many were left guessing which car Swami
was seated...All the roads were beautifully decorated with
rangolis, small temples bearing Swami's photos. It was like
a festival for all the villagers there and why not, the
Avatar of this Age has decided to visit their home sparing
some precious hours from His busy schedule.
Excellent arrangements were made for all the devotees. Swami
after finishing the bhoomi puja for the new campus came on
the beautifully decorated dias in His car chair. The hall
had a capacity of about 5000 people and there were three
speakers the last one being Mr. Narasimha Murthy.
As Swami also speaks fluent Kannada, every one thought Swami
would give His divine discourse in Kannada, but Swami
started His divine discourse in Telugu with a sweet verse
which was sung by Him on various occasions in the recent
past.
Parama Pavanamaina Bharata vani yandu, sahana mannade manaku
chakka danamu..
(in this holyland of Bharath, what is most beautiful is
patience)
Vratamulannitiyandu
vanne ganchina yatti ghana sathya seelame khatina tapamu
(out of all the rituals, adherence to truth is the highest
form of penance).
pranambu kantenu manambe ghana manu mana desa neetini
mantagalipi
(the country which considers self respect more than one's
own life is no longer like that)
netikichiri para desa neetula rasi (due to rapid
westernisation) .
Aura! emandu Bharatha palanambu (Alas, what has happened to
this country?)
Enugetula tana balamu eruga lekunnado atula ayyinaru
Bharateeyulu nedu
(Indians have become like an elephant which doesnt know its
own strength).
(Even though Karnataka people understand Telugu very well,
Mr.Narasimha Murthy came next to Swami to translate but
Swami continued to speak non stop in Telugu with no
interpretation)
Truth is every where. Embodiments of love! the reason for My
visit is to give proper education facilities to children of
this area.
Today there are no colleges in this area. After finishing
the school the children have to go to cities. They don't
have any money.
You all know how it is in cities. It is very expensive. For
children who have to pursue higher education some times they
give up failing to cope with the expenses. That is why I
have DECIDED to give quality education. You all have so many
Shakthis. Among all the shakthis, DURAASA (greediness)
Shakthi is very fierce now a days. With greediness comes
sorrow. Greediness will bring peacelessness.
You have to look with in and realise the Atma and to give
all the children this knowledge I have decided to open up a
campus here. That is MY ONLY DESIRE..
Today, unfortunately spirituality is lacking even in
villages. There are not many who are chanting Rama, Krishna
and so on. So to teach the highest form of Knowledge, to
make the children well aware of the teachings and
significance of Bhagawatam, Ramayana, Gita I have opened up
this new campus. This kind of knowledge, will help the
children to become noble citizens.
All know about God. You have to practice and share all the
knowledge of God. Today I laid the foundation stone.. Amidst
loud applauds Swami announced that In 6 months this will be
ready. NO ONE CAN GIVE A TIME FRAME LIKE THIS. When I WILL
it is bound to happen.
Super hospital in Puttaparthi was opened in less than year's
time. I announced that it will be ready by November 23.
There was heavy rain the preceding day. Every where there
were pits and mud. Every one thought, will the hospital be
functional. There were few more equipments to be brought in
for the operation to commence. In no time a big truck with
all the necessary equipments arrived and it was 11pm by
then. Doctors were called upon and on the first day 3
operations were performed. All operations were successful
and the patients were discharged in 5 days.
By 2010, February 14 everything should be finished. People
should have confidence. All of you have studied English. You
all know the story of a poor boy. Because of his poverty he
could not go out, he could not attend the school because all
the children were laughing at his dress, at his financial
situation. His mother poured lot of confidence in this boy.
She said God is with us. believe in God. Have God in mind.
The child taking confidence from his mother, started
studying under the street lights. To bear cold he covered
himself with gunny bags.
The same child, in the later stages was president of
America. He is Abraham Lincoln. After becoming the President
he did not forget his mother. He said, it is only because of
his mother he is in this stage.
Today's world is in total confusion. All are in search of
God. God is no where else but within you. You should change
the society. Only God's grace can change the whole world. So
always keep God in mind. Only then the whole world will be
happy. Treat yourself as a servant and not a master.
Today you see all the Members of Parliaments, ministers, All
these positions are temporary. Atma is eternal. One who
realises this truth will be succesful. Next year 14 February
I will come for the opening of the new campus. I will give
all the financial support needed for this. Do not worry
about money. When Lakshmi is in My heart, there won't be any
shortage of money. I don't ask any body for money and you
too don't ask for money to any one. I am not concerned of
any big expenses. I declare something and it is bound to
happen. All will be surprised when I finish a task. Do not
leave your spiritual path. That is the highest Shakthi. You
will be blessed with all that you want when you have God in
your heart.
Swami in a lighter note and surprising every one very
sweetly asked Am I irritating you with My talk, for which
there was a big NO..LEDU SWAMI from the devotees. Swami
later continued..all those who have assembled here are very
fortunate. Just have faith in God. All your worldly problems
will be solved.
While Swami was talking, some one from the crowd said, Swami
we feel like we are in heaven.. to which Swami said, very
happy... very happy..
It was 12:15 by then Swami then continued
When you meet some one instead of saying hello, hai, you ask
dear brother how are you? say namaskaram. Don't forget your
parents are God.
Don't disappoint them in any time. They should never shed
tears. God will give EVERY THING to children who take of
their parents. Many foreigners who come here are becoming
more and more spiritual. In another 18 years the whole world
will change. There will be peace and tranquilty. It will be
an universal world.
Swami then sang one of His favourite bhajans Prema Mudita
and it was very very sweet.. after the bhajan He continued
Get good name to your parents and give them all the
happiness. THAT IS WHAT I WANT. Do you think Swami's
happiness is different from your happiness.. no..no.. Your
happiness is MY HAPPINESS. If you are happy and give
happiness to parents I AM HAPPY.. so saying Swami filling
our hearts with HAPPINESS concluded His 45 min HAPPY
discourse HAPPILY..
Swami asked the children to sing songs and after 2 songs
arathi was given to Swami and it was 12:30 by then.
After a short break Swami left for Puttaparthi at 1:30 and
it was another joyous ride back to Parthi. Swami amidst tons
of happiness returned to His own physical abode Puttaparthi
as Students from Swami's primary school and other devotees
welcomed Him with a sweet smile..
Thus ended a beautiful journey with LORD and a beautiful day
full of Sai Love..
Swami is so sweet like river which always likes giving
giving and we are like the sea water who always like taking
and give nothing..
Time has come for all of us to gear up and SET ASIDE THE
MAYA and get into serious spiritual sadhana. Time is running
short and there is no short cut to Mukthi. Be it a
millionaire or a pauper every one has to get into MUKTHI
path and why not start now when our beloved Lord is there to
guide us and take us to the highest level..
Swami says VERY SOON the whole world will be ONE and to
achieve this it is our duty to give our share to that
achievement. Brothers and sisters lets join together to
IGNITE the God in us to know the real HUMAN ness.
With Loving pranams at the lotus feet of our beloved Lord,
R.Satish Naik.. from Kaliyuga's Mathura Puttaparthi
(humble apologies if any mistakes were rolled in this
report)
Received on
15.02.2009
Prasanthi
Update
Swami went to Muddennahalli today morning and around 8.45 AM
to lay the Foundation stone for the 4th Campus of the Sri
Sathya Sai University. Swami also gave a Wonderful Divine
Discourse. Bhagawan returned back to Parthi at around 3.30
PM. In the evening
Swami came for Bhajans Sorry for this very Brief Update.
Will send Detailed updates later along with Photos. Om Sai
Ram
Courtesy: KM - 14.02.2009
Prasanthi
Update - 13th February
On Friday evening Kulwanth Hall was filled with various
articles to be given to the poor and needy. This programme
was arranged the Devotees of Prakasam District in Andhra
Pradesh, Swami came around 4.15 PM and after sometime came
on stage and went down to see all the materials and also
spoke to a Few people.
Prof.Anil Kumar then spoke about the greatness of Prakasam
District and of the many great people who lived there and
also mentioned about some Great experiences of various
Devotees of that region. Shri.Anil Kumar also read out the
names of the various recipients who came up to Swami for His
Divine blessings. Afterwards the Students sang some
Melodious Bhajans and at around 6PM, Bhagawan returned to
Yajur Mandiram.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy: KM - 14.02.2009
Prasanthi News
As Mentioned earlier, Swami is going to Muddenahalli
tommorow to lay the foundation stone for the the 4th Campus
Building of the Sri Sathya Sai University. Swami is expected
to leave Prasanthi Nilayam at around 8.30 in the morning and
reach Muddenahalli at around 10.00 AM.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy: KM - 13.02.2009
Prasanthi News
- Swami expected to be in Muddenahalli on Saturday
Swami is expected to be in Muddenahalli on Saturday 14th
February to lay the Foundation stone for the 4th Campus of
the Sri Sathya Sai University.
The Construction of the New campus is to be completed by the
end of this year. It will be the 4th Campus of Swami's
University after Prasanthi Nilayam, Brindavan and Ananthapur.
It is not sure whether Swami will be going to Brindavan
after the Muddenahalli visit or be back in Prasanthi Nilayam.
Muddenahalli is around 60 Kilometres from Bangalore.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy: KM -
12.02.2009
Prasanthi
Update - 10.02.2009
The schedule at Prashanti Nilayam has undergone a slight
change in the evenings, what with Swami asking that the
bhajans be held outside everyday and not in the Bhajan hall
as it used to be earlier. So it happens that almost everyday
Swami arrives as the bhajans are on. It is a different
experience to see Swami during His darshan rounds, singing
bhajans. Earlier, the expressions of spontaneous joy as He
nears would manifest in hands going up and people craning so
hard that they would culminate in standing up to offer
prostrations! Now another dimension has been added too and
that is the increase in decibel levels as Swami nears. And
so for a listening observer sitting at one end, the bhajan
seems to move towards her/him not at the speed of sound but
at the speed of the Divine movement in the chair! Swami
moves up the stage and as He sits listening to the bhajans,
there is a visible and audible enthusiasm in the singing.
Sometimes Swami thrills the singer as He sings a few lines
of the bhajan in the follow! He sings the lead too sometimes
but though this is thrilling for all, the singer is not
affected much as his eyes are closed as he sings! Indeed
bizzare yet profound it is that the singers draw inspiration
from the Swami within, even in the Presence.
Today the script of the past few days got changed as Swami
noticed a group of ladies with scarves from Hyderabad. They
prayed to Him for an opportunity to sing in His presence.
The time was about 4:40pm and Swami enquired from them as to
what they wished to sing. A short conversation ensued after
which Swami called the Secretary and had a few moments of
discussion. The students seated in the marbled blocks were
asked to make some space available and the group was granted
its wish! Swami went into the interview room and after a
short while arrived on the stage and asked the ladies to
begin. They started with Vedic chanting and as it went on,
Swami asked for them to start singing. Now this needed the
instrumental support and all the instrumentalists were
gents. Since this was a programme that had been divinely
conjured out of the blue, the instrumentalists were not in
place.
It was then that Swami did something so beautiful. He moved
into the interview room just like that. This gave the group
precious minutes to reorganise and regroup. As if that was
not enough, the Lord sweetly sent word too asking whether
all were ready! Once all were set and the first song
started, Swami came out and sat on the stage. Roses and
other offerings had already been made and the songs
continued. The songs were all in Telugu on the glory of Sai.
So profound and beautiful were the meanings of the songs
that Swami too seemed very interested in knowing the exact
lyrics! He asked for the booklet that had been prepared for
Him containing all the songs and began to leaf through it.
As each song was being sung, Swami seemed to be reading the
lyrics of that particular song. After about 35 minutes of
group singing by the ladies ably assisted instrumentally by
the gents, Swami told something to the student sitting
beside Him. Taking this as a signal for aarthi, the ladies
started to prepare the camphor and the wicks. Seeing this,
Swami smilingly told them to wait and asked them to continue
singing. And thus it was that the singing went on as Swami
inspected the sarees and safari cloth pieces that He planned
to distribute to the performers. After the final song
concluded, Swami called a little boy sitting right in the
front(presumably, the son of the keyboard player.) He
accepted the letter and spoke a few loving words with the
boy. He asked his name and then planted a loving pat on his
cheek. Swami distributed the cloths and sarees. In the
meanwhile, the main organisers and the key musicians came up
to Swami seeking His blessings. Swami blessed them all
profusely and patted many on their cheeks.
Sweets were brought for blessings after which they were
distributed to all present as holy prasadam. Swami asked the
students to sing a few bhajans and in an atmosphere that had
been surcharged with devotional songs, the bhajans acted as
an outlet for all to pour out thier love for Swami. Swami
sat, moving rhythmically to the lovely tunes of the bhajans.
Aarthi was taken at the end of two bhajans and Swami sat
through the entire Aarthi. At the end, He raised both His
hands in loving benediction and "oohs" and "aahs" were heard
all over the hall as the devotees too raised both their
hands in humble reception! It was about 6:10 pm when Swami
drove back to the Residence. Om Sai Ram
Courtesy: KM - Thursday, 12 February, 2009 10:06 AM
Prasanthi
Update - 3rd Feb - Wonderful Drama "Sri Paadaalu"
Yesterday evening there was a wonderful Programme by the
Devotees of Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. Swami came
to Kulwanth Hall at around 4.40 PM and after coming on
stage, the Telugu Drama entitled "Sri Paadaalu" was started.
It was a wonderful 50 Minute Drama in Telugu which showed in
a wonderful manner the Transformation of a Scientist.
The Highlight of the Drama were Depiction of the Scenes from
the very famous Pilgrimage centres of Chitoor District
namely Kanipakkam, Tirupati and Sri Kalahasti. After the
Drama, Bhajans were sung and after accepting Mangala Aarthi,
Swami left Kulwanth Hall at around 6PM for Yajur Mandiram in
His Car.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy: KM - Wednesday, 4 February, 2009 10:38 AM |
