PARTHI NEWS - JULY 2010
Divine Images - Guru Poornima 2010
Guru Poornima Morning was dreamed away in heightened anticipation;
the evening was but a shower of solace, Happiness and Ultimate Joy.
        
Adorned in "Royal Red" our Lord entered in to the
hall blessing the multitude in profuse. Amid the high cadence of
Nadaswaram and Panchavadyam and the melodious rendering of songs by
students, Swami ceremoniously started the "Guru Purnima"
celebrations.
The Subsequent Programme wore the monopoly of the "Maladi" brothers,
who artfully crafted and delightfully delivered compositions
captivated the audience for about an hour. The assembly attention
was fervent, raptured by a soothing gush of monsoon wind or a sudden
outburst of applause. Swami posed still and solemn, as if spinning a
distance soliloquy of his own, absorbing every word and prayer,
sanctifying every moment of this holy occasion in to perfect
blessedness.
A Wonderful Guru Poornima evening enjoyed by a Huge Multitude of
Crowds who had spilled over to the Poornachandra Hall.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy: KM - 27.07.10
A RARE WHISTLING CONCERT 26TH JULY 2010 DARSHAN UPDATE
Om Sri Sairam dearest Sai Family,
Whistle is rude in some countries, romantic in some countries,
banned in some other places. Almost every one in our lives would
have whistled or tried to learn how to whistle. India is a country
where you will find different types of whistles. There are some of
us who sing and whistle in bathrooms which many times is
involuntary. If you happen to travel in private buses, you will find
the bus conductor whistling to stop and run the bus. If some one
about to catch the bus, misses it in fraction of seconds whistles
loudly for the bus to stop.
When in cinema theatres you will see a different kind of whistle,
especially in states like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, where movie
actors are worshipped, you will hear very loud whistles in theatres
especially just released movies. Touching the index finger and the
thumb, placing both under the tongue, one whistles loudly. When
there is too much excitement in the air, the two index fingers get
under the tongue and the whistle is bit louder this time.
In villages during processions of deities, marriage processions etc,
you will find similar kind of whistles. In most of the cases, these
whistles are bit rajasic but the evening of 26th July 2010, Swami
was very very impressed and what a great joy. A perfect presentation
of devotion, melody, simplicity and novelty displayed by Sri. Shiva
Prasad with a very fine technique of letting the breath go out from
the tiny hole between the lips. A rare talent which he has worked
and practiced for many years now. Apparently he has given more than
2000 presentations in different countries displaying HIS WHISTLING
talent.
Swami who blessed the Malladi brothers with yet another concert in
the morning of 26th July 2010, very little we devotees expected
another musical presentation in the evening. It was a WHISTLE MUSIC
PRESENTATION and what a fantastic one.
Swami blessed the gathering with His divine darshan close to 5pm.
Swami completed a full round of darshan and came on the dais. Sri.
Shiva Prasad and his troupe were seated on the dais facing the
audience. Swami was completely facing towards East Prasanthi and
WHISTLE CONCERT started with Mahaganapatim song. Sri. Shiva Prasad
sang, i mean whistled many Tyagaraja keetans. The tabla, harmonium,
every one were in tune with the whistle. Sri. Shiva Prasad sang the
Hari Bhajana bina Sukha Shanthi Nahi bhajan and the whole atmosphere
came alive. many of the devotees thought that it was a FLUTE concert
and not a WHISTLE concert. After the concert, one devotee came upto
me and said, Satish i think the flute was bit louder today and i
said it was not flute but a human flute, WHISTLE and he was taken
back. Shiva Prasad then sang Govinda Krishna Jai bhajan. i was
wondering how he will manage the line Gopika Mala Hari Pyari which
itself is a tongue twister while singing but Sri. Shiva Prasad did a
fantastic job and every one joined their hands encouraging him.
Swami was very keenly watching him. When he WHISTLED the favourite
bhajan of Swami Prema Mudita, Swami was so touched. His expressions
changed completely. the WHISTLE squeezed His heart and He was
completely immersed in the melody and devotion. The emotion was so
much that Swami started tapping His hand with the rhythm and every
one of us joined Swami according to His hand movement.
Swami called Sri. Shiva Prasad close to Him and unlike in the recent
past, Swami's hand made two big circles and then came a beautiful
dazzling gold chain, as Sri. Shiva Prasad was completely drenched in
tears, Swami slipped the DIVINE MANIFESTATION around his neck.
While the WHISTLING was going on, Swami asked the boy sitting next
to Him to bring the gifts that were there. the brother brought a bag
and Swami opened to see the contents and was not happy and sent them
back. another bag was brought and Swami took a look and still not
satisfied and the third one was brought, Swami opened it again and
then He said OK.
No one can MATCH His perfection and He makes sure every guest of His
is felicitated accordingly. All the members of the troupe including
two ladies got gifts from Swami. Sri. Shiva Prasad later continued
His WHISTLE concert after receiving the DIVINE GIFT. The WHISTLING
which lasted for more than one and half hour ended when Swami
signalled for arathi few minutes after 7pm. i was wondering how
beautiful it would be if the arathi is WHISTLED this evening without
singing. The students did start singing but the WHISTLE dominated
and it was a beautiful WHISTLE experience.
Coming out of darshan, unknowingly i started whistling practicing to
whistle Govinda Krishna Jai bhajan, a brother who was from USA was
also seen whistling. When we both looked at each other, we exchanged
a smile and after a while left our ways WHISTLING again..
So next time if you see some one whistling don't think otherwise!!!
!
With pranams at the Lotus feet of our beloved Lord.
R. Satish Naik
email sent on 27.07.2010
24th JULY 2010 DARSHAN UPDATE
Om Sri Sairam dearest Sai Family,
Puttaparthi is full to its brim with thousands of devotees thronging
to this tiny spiritual hamlet where our living and loving God
resides. Added to the Gurupoornima, it is also a weekend and all the
students from all the campuses of Swami are here in Parthi.
Gurupoornima is the first festival in Parthi Spiritual calendar and
this festival always attracts thousands of devotees. As the on going
85th birthday celebrations are in full swing, the crowd is always
there as one country or other is camping in Parthi.
All the rooms in the ashram were jam packed and many of the devotees
were allowed to stay in the verandahs of the buildings in the
ashram.
The road outside the ashram (see pictures) is bit messy. The local
authorities have started working on the road by heightening the road
to about 8inches with concrete cement. This work which was promised
to be finished in 10 days is still WORK IN PROGRESS inspite of being
the 12th day of the work. Devotees especially from over seas would
have had this experience here in India, we always say TOMORROW for
any thing and that tomorrow never arrives. Probably taking cue from
this TOMORROW they made the James bond movie TOMORROW NEVER DIES...
As the work is under progress, the bus station is temporarily shut
down and all the buses are stopping at the end of Chitravathi road
and one has to walk the whole road to reach ashram.
Back to the ashram, the whole ashram was beautifully decorated and
there were two large screens put up in Sai Kulwanth hall. the crowd
was so much that there was no place even to get into the ashram when
Swami was out seated on the dais.
Swami, this evening paid a brief visit to the Super Speciality
Hospital. According to some unconfirmed news, Smt. Jayalakshmi
Gopinath the warden of Anantapur campus and a long time devotee of
Swami for the past 60 decades, is now in the hospital due to illness
and most probably Swami would have gone to bless her and also
Mrs.Ratan Lal who is also in the Super Speciality Hospital. Swami
returned to the ashram via the west gate at 4:30 pm. Swami blessed
the gathering at 5:10 pm with His divine darshan. Swami made a full
round in the hall and also went towards the ladies' side and came
back to the bhajan hall and then on to the stage.
There was a beautiful play titled "Sai Yugam (Sai's Era), Prema Yuga
(An era of Love). It was a beautiful drama speaking about Lord
Krishna and His promise that He would come back in Kali Age as
Sathya Sai Baba. There was lot of innovation, melody and devotion in
the programme that it was liked by every one. The 55 minute
programme was received with big round of applauds when Swami went
down the dais to bless the Balvikas children of Tamil Nadu with a
group photo. Swami even materialised a ring to one of the actors.
Arathi was offered to Swami at 7pm thus ending another beautiful
day.
With Pranams at the Lotus feet of our beloved Lord,
R.Satish Naik.
Email received on 26.07.2010 - 12.08 am
GURUPOORNIMA 2010 DARSHAN UPDATE
Om Sairam dearest Sai Family,
Puttaparthi was full and was over flowing today
on the occasion of Gurupoornima. Thousands were accommodated in the
Sai Kulwanth hall and also in Poornachandra hall. Swami preferred to
cancel PHYSICAL darshan this morning.
Evening session witnessed double the number of
devotees and it was just amazing to see the devotion and dedication
among the devotees among which were kids in big numbers.
Swami clad in a maroon robe blessed us with His
divine darshan bit early this evening around 4:30 pm. There were
some devotees from Italy and also from the VIBRO healing group in
the verandah. Swami blessed the devotees by cutting the cakes made
by them and also padanamaskar to some.
This evening it was the turn of Malladi Brothers
from Andhra Pradesh to steal the show. Malladi brothers, if every
one remembers were the same brothers who made Swami emotional on His
84th birthday with their nectarine rendering. This evening concert
was no exception when Swami was deeply involved in the melody and
devotion. Swami kept on signalling to continue the songs and the
session lasted for just more than one and half hour.
Swami blessed the brothers and their families by
spending some time on the stage and arathi was offered to Swami
around 7pm. Swami before entering His home, also stopped by in
Poornachandra Auditorium which was already packed with devotees.
Swami came out of Poornachandra in 5 minutes thus ending a beautiful
Gurupoornima. A day which was dedicated to our JAGATH GURU, Bhagawan
Sri Sathya Sai Baba
With Pranams at the Lotus feet of our beloved Lord,
R.Satish Naik
email received on 26.07.2010 - 12.03 am
SWAMI'S CLASSMATE SRI. SATHYANARAYANA PASSED AWAY
Om Sairam dearest Sai Family,
With a heavy heart I want to pass this sad news
about the death of Sri. Sathyanarayana, who had the great fortune to
be Swami's classmate when He studied in Bukkapatnam school.
Sri Sathyanarayana
Sri.Sathyanarayana was 88 years old and by His
grace had a peaceful passing. According to the family members, he
was on liquid diet for the past two days and on 21st July around 8pm
he was rushed to Swami's hospital where he was declared dead.
Apart from being Swami's classmate, he was an ardent devotee of
Swami. i had this great fortune to meet him many times in his
ancestral home in Bukkapatnam (4 kilometers from Parthi). In fact
when ever I am in Bukkapatnam, I definitely go to his home. He
was a very sweet person full of love. He never let me go without
partaking food in his home and that made me feel so touched by his
hospitality.
Sri.Sathyanarayana, was also a freedom fighter who took part
actively in freedom struggle during British regime. He first met
Swami when he was 12 years old and Swami was 3 years younger to him.
One would imagine how fortunate he was to meet Him at that age and
more fortunate to see the Swami of today who is now known all over
the world.
Swami having lunch in His friend's home in Bukkapatnam
I once accompanied brother Ted Henry to do a
small interview and the latest I met him was in April
2010.Considering the importance of such a great personality, i did
another interview where in he said, he was one of the witness to the
incident where in Swami was made to stand on the bench and the
teacher gets stuck to the chair. Even though, his friend ship with
Swami is old, they were and are still friends. When ever, Sri.
Sathyanarayana came to darshan, Swami made sure He stopped by and
ask about his health and family.
Swami blessing Sri.Sathyanarayana's daughter wedding
Sri Sathyanarayana used to compare himself as
Kuchela the poor friend of Lord Krishna and it was very much true
when you look closely. Swami did not forget His classmate once the
school days were over. He performed the marriages of all his
daughters, made sure they all were self sufficient.
When ever there was any need Swami was always
there. Speaking about Swami, Sri. Sathyanarayana once said, during
Swami 75th birthday celebrations, Swami asked him to speak. Just
before the day of the talk, Swami saw His classmate getting tense.
Swami took him to the interview room and dictated the whole talk to
him and the next day, when he delivered the talk, Swami, like the
assembled devotees, was immersed in the talk and after the talk was
over, clapped for his excellent talk (the divine actor Swami) and it
was the turn of Sri. Sathyanarayana to be surprised.
Sri. Sathyanarayana used to show all the beautiful letters, Swami
used to write to him and all of them showed how much concern Swami
had for him.
Being a classmate to the Avatar of this kali age, Sri.
Sathyanarayana didn't use this friendship for petty personal
reasons. He rather requested Swami to built a marriage hall for
Hindus, Shadi khana (marriage hall for Muslims) , mosque and an
excellent state of the art college in Bukkapatnam which even today
are catering the needs of thousands of people.
When Swami visited his home in Bukkapatnam
Swami used to go very often to Bukkapatnam just
to see his friend. Sri. Sathyanarayana used to say, the only TRICK
he used to make Swami come to his home was by avoiding darshans.
There were many instances when Swami had lunch, break fast in his
home which is a very small one. In those days, Swami used to take
Sri. Sathyanarayana to the interview room and speak at least for 10
minutes. it had become a routine. One day Swami didn't call him and
it happened continuously for a week. This made him very unhappy and
then Swami wrote a sweet letter, apologising for the trouble. Swami
in the letter said, it is only because many, many devotees have
started coming, I am forced to steal your time and give it to the
devotees. If you are unhappy like this I will not partake any food
and if you want this to happen then you can be unhappy with Swami.
This was the love they shared with each other..
Swami's near and dear ones are slowly merging in Him. All the great
heroes, have left a legacy with us. They all lived a very simple,
humble and modest life which is a great example for us who claim to
be His devotees. The lives lived by humble souls like him are worth
living. They all won His hearts and we are no where close to that..
According to the family members, Swami was intimated about the death
of His classmate (on a physical level, not that He doesn't know) and
Swami asked the family not to worry or feel sad. Apparently He said,
Sathyanarayana has merged in Swami now. Don't worry or cry. Swami
sent a white cloth, vibhuthi prasadam with His messenger which
itself shows the love He has for His classmate even after he left
the body...
As another holy soul left Parthi, it is time for all of us to LOOK
WITH IN and live the life of a TRUE DEVOTEE.. Swami is always there
to guide us and give what ever we ask for but only thing is are we
ready for it???
O Swami! thank you for allowing to meet a humble soul who happened
to be Your classmate, play mate and a dear devotee. Help us all to
be as dear and near as him and pray for the ALREADY blessed SOUL to
rest in Peace... AMEN...
Jai Sai Ram
R.Satish Naik..
email received on 24.07.2010
23 JULY 2010 - LATIN AMERICAN CHOIR DARSHAN
UPDATE FROM PRASANTHI NILAYAM
Om Sri Sairam dearest Sai family,
After a fantastic 3 programmes by the devotees from Maharashtra on
the occasion of Ekadasi it was the turn of devotees from Latin
America to steal Swami's heart. The group consisted of 200 members
and they had been practicing some songs in Spanish very rigourously
and finally the day arrived. While their practice, Swami put many
tests to them. Many were not sure if the programme will happen or
not. It was any body's guess and the departure date for the group
was getting nearer and nearer. This group in particular is very
fortunate one. Swami taught them the real meaning behind Him
materialising VIBHUTHI.
It so happened, one devotee from Spain who was part of the group
died. He was 68 years old and while they were practicing for the
choir he suffered heart attack and was rushed to hospital. The
devotee was accompanied by his wife and daughter. For the whole
group and the close family in particular it was great shock. But
some where in the middle of their hearts, they had this joy within
themselves. For any one, death is inevitable. but what a great way
to celebrate, if that happens in Parthi, the Abode of our beloved
Lord. Our Swami has many times said very clearly, many people
mistake DEATH as liberation which is absolutely baseless. Death is
just a physical activity.
But for us devotees, one would be happy to go into the other world
VIA Puttaparthi. It is in fact a rare honour to leave the body in
Puttaparthi. the group when they left their countries, little did
they knew about this surprise which was in offering from Swami.
After all the clearance from the Embassy, the body was cremated the
next day. An Indian origin devotee Mr. Sase Narayan Persaud, who is
multitalented person born in Guyana and now settled in Parthi did
the last rites according to Hindu tradition. For the whole group, it
was such a great shock and also a good message from Swami.
Especially there are many of us who are running after this BODY and
are very much body conscious. Seeing the body which now has no life
being burnt in the pyre, every one's hearts melt. Is this the SAME
BODY which I and him are having. How true Swami is, always,
repeatedly asks us not to run after the body. Body is a water
bubble, mind is a mad monkey don't follow the body don't follow the
mind". What happened to the body which is lying lifeless on the
pyre, it is burnt into ashes. The same HOLY VIBHUTHI which Swami
materialises, to remind us again and again that we are JUST ASH and
nothing beyond this.
Today in darshan I am sure almost every body would have prayed for
the departed soul for being let free from the body.
Back to the programme, Swami arrived at 5:30 pm to grant us His
divine darshan. Swami made a full round in the Sai Kulwanth Hall and
then came onto the dais. Swami very sweetly smiled at the devotees
from Latin America who were already seated in the middle of the
hall. After listening to Vedas for about 15 minutes after which
Swami signaled for the evening programme to start. The devotees sang
Spanish bhajans whole heartedly and Swami as we are seeing Him in
the recent past was immersed in reading the letters and many a
times, looking at the devotees when ever a sweet bhajan was sung.
The bhajan session lasted close to an hour after which Swami
signaled for Arathi.
Swami asked to repeat Samastha Lokah prayer twice and after staying
on the dais till the prasadam distribution finished, Swami called it
a day in Prasanthi Nilayam..
A great day indeed....
With Pranams at the Lotus Feet of our beloved Lord,
R.Satish Naik..
Email received on 23.07.2010
18th JULY 2010, SRI SATHYA SAI SATHYANARAYANA VRATHAM
DARSHAN UPDATE
Om Sairam dearest Sai Family,
Puttaparthi the Abode of peace is reverberating with tons of DIVINE
ENERGY much stronger than before. The atmosphere is completely
DIVINE and I am sure the energy has already reached all corners of
the world. As Swami said, there are lot of changes coming and it is
HIGH TIME for us to change ourselves from WITHIN us to see that
change outside.
The Alwarula Bhakthi Samrajya Mahotsavam had a magnificent finish
with the Sri Sathya Sai Sathyanarayana Puja in the immediate
presence of our beloved Lord. It is a rare fortune to witness this
kind of puja and there were approximately 1100 couples who were
selected to be seated through the proceedings and offering the
prayers to our beloved Lord.
Swami as we all know, was named Sathyanarayana by His parents. The
birth of her son was a matter of special joy and happiness for
mother Eswaramma as she had suffered four miscarriages in a row and
her heart now longed for another child. She already had one son and
two daughters, but for some reason her maternal instincts craved for
future expression. Very little did the humble mother knew about the
DIVINE MASTER PLAN, for without knowing it, she was the "chosen
mother' and her "Son" verily- the embodiment of Divinity. In India
since bygone eras, they had the tradition of having SATHYANARAYANA
PUJA (VRATAM) at homes. Mother Easwaramma, also did the same puja
before the birth of our beloved Lord, asking the Gods to bless her
with a Child. Our Compassionate Lord, apart from blessing her with a
child, chose to come HIMSELF as her son. Because, the family had
this firm belief that the Sathyanarayana Puja made Easwaramma
experience the mother hood again, the little boy was named
Sathyanarayana, who now is our loving and caring Lord Sri Sathya Sai.
This is how powerful this Puja is.
Today's puja which was called Sri Sathya Sai SATHYANARAYANA puja
definitely has a very strong reason. Swami's every action has
profound significance and beneficial to the mankind.
The hall was beautifully decorated. It was a real feast to the eyes
watching the upper part of the dais in particular where in golden
coloured pots were kept in a slanting position and it had a long
bunch of flowers coming down as if it is raining flowers in Sai
Kulwanth hall. Apparently the whole decoration took 9 hours with 45
people working the whole night.Before Swami's arrival Sri.
Nidimamidi guided the selected couples into the Sathyanarayana Puja
after which chanting of Sai Gayathri mantra started. the whole
atmosphere was charged up as every one joined in chanting the
holiest mantra of this Kali Age. What a great fortune to chant this
holy mantra at His Abode. Every one's mind, heart and soul was
completely stuck on Swami. Either they were looking at His entrance
door, or having His form picturised in the heart. Our beloved Lord,
entered the Sai Kulwanth hall around 6pm. Priests were walking along
His path, the devotional music was played by the nadaswaram group as
Photographers clicked His entering right from His abode. The hall
was jam packed with the couples selected for the puja. as they were
more than 1100, about 20 lines at the far end was left for token
line devotees and others had to watch the proceedings from out side.
Swami first took a short cut taking a right turn
just infront of the dais and later went for a full round, on His
exit path towards the ladies' side. Again coming on the main
entrance path, this time He made a complete round even in the gents'
side. Every one were happy to have a close darshan of Swami. Swami
sprinkled akshintalu (turmeric rice) on few. All the staff, doctors,
central trust staff, office bearers you name them they were seated
in the puja. Swami smiled at every one.
After Swami came on to the dais, the father, son
duo Sri.Mohan and Vinod, the prime people behind this memorable
Alwars programme went upto Swami to seek His blessings. The family
who owns SLN Jewellers in Bangalore (www.slnjewellers.com) need a
special mention here, they did a fantastic job for the success of
this programme. The puja that all the couples participated was
completely free. The couples were given so many valuable puja
articles absolutely free and this itself shows their generosity and
devotion they have on Swami.
Swami sat on the dais for about 45 minutes as the
story of our beloved Lord was told in English and Swami as He is
seen doing it more often, was immersed in reading the letters. At
about 7pm Swami signalled for arathi. After arathi sumptuous prasad
comprising of sweet rice, pongal was distributed to every one in the
hall and Swami watched the whole distribution from the dais and
returned to His abode after a few minutes stop in the interview room
ending yet another beautiful GOLDEN day of my life...
On a personal note, even though it is just a
PHYSICAL HAPPENING, I thanked Swami on behalf of my little son Sai
Vignesh for bringing him to His Abode as he turned one today.
Thank You dear Lord,
Jai Sai Ram,
R.Satish Naik
Received on 19.07.2010
JULY 16 2010 DARSHAN UPDATE FROM PARTHI
Om Sairam dearest Sai family,
The beautiful Alwarula Bhakthi Samrajya Mahotsavam, a one of its
kind programme dedicated to the 12 Alwars for their unmatched
dedication and devotion to Lord Vishnu, is happening in a grand way
in the abode of our beloved Lord, Prasanthi Nilayam.
We had the great fortune to listen to the story of the Alwars in
detail by learned scholars.
Even though, all the talks are in Telugu, but
fortunately Telugu understanding person like me are having a great
time, listening to the sweet story of the Alwars.
Today, it was the turn of Sri.Lakshmanaiah, a learned scholar from
Tirupathi, the place of Lord Balaji. He said we all know Tirupathi
is KALIYUGA'S VAIKUNTHA (HEAVEN) but Puttaparthi is (YUGA YUGALA
VAIKUNTHA) Vaikuntha of all yugas as our loving and living Lord is
dwelling here amidst us.
Sri. Lakshmanaiah started his talk stressing upon the four pillars
to the path of MOKSHA (liberation) , Karma yoga, Bhakthi Yoga,
Dhyana Yoga and Gnana Yoga). If one pillar is not in the right
position then we will not reach Moksha. Only when these Yogas need
repair, God either comes Himself in a body or sends His messengers
to teach the whole world the REAL KNOWLEDGE. The Alwars were one of
them.
As the previous speakers had covered the first nine Alwars, Sri.
Lakshmanaiah spoke on remaining three alwars today.
He first started with Sri. Andal, the only female
alwar among the 12. He said she represents the women community. Her
presence makes everyone realise that Women are not lagging behind in
devotion and dedication towards the almighty. Infact, Sri. Andal is
none other than daughter of Periyalwar. According to the legend,
Sri. Andal's birth was similar to that of mother Sita. She was found
lying in mother earth's lap by Periyalwar and the moment he saw her,
he knew she was his God sent daughter and took her to his wife who
very fondly looked after her. She had all the comforts of life but
she preferred to stay concentrated on God. Sri. Andal who is also
known as Goda Devi used to offer garland of flowers every day to
God.
Later on She was married to Prahalada and the
moment after the marriage, she merged into God which itself spoke
about her devotion and dedication.
Sri. lakshmanaiah, before ending his 45 minute speech also spoke on
Sri Thondaradippodi Alwar and Sri Thiruppani Alwar.
At 7:15pm Swami accepted arathi and today Swami
moved before the end of Arathi towards His physical abode and as it
was seen for the past 3 days, even today there were about 10 people
(including one priest by the deities on the dais, Prasanthi Nilayam
priest) giving Arathi to Swami a RARE SCENE indeed.
Earlier, yesterday evening, it was the turn of Sri.Medasani Mohan to
speak on Sri.Thirumalishai Alwar, Sri.Kulashekhara Alwar and
Sri.Periyalwar. Swami was so impressed by his talk that when he went
upto Swami after the talk, Swami materialised a gold chain to him. I
happened to speak to Sri. Mohan after the programme and he was
naturally very very happy at the divine recognition. In this modern
age, very rarely one will find some one talking, chanting,
remembering those hymns from holy scriptures. The chain which was
shining gold had a square pendant on which Swami's face was
imprinted on both sides. After Swami materialised the chain, I saw
Swami speaking to Sri. Mohan. Taking some courage (as we all know
great scholars and pundits are bit short tempered but Sri. Mohan was
a satvic scholar), I asked what was Swami asking you. With a smile,
Sri.Mohan replied, I had a discussion with a team of producers and
directors, with regard to a devotional movie that they were
planning. I am doing the lyrics for the same and I had to leave the
next day for the meeting (Friday) and Swami after putting the chain
around my neck asked very shortly "UNTUNNNAVA? " (are you
staying?(in Prasanthi Nilayam) to which I replied antha Swami istham
(Its all Swami's wish) and Swami said UNDU (stay).
So did Sri. Mohan as I saw him today on the dais, smiling vibrantly,
with the dazzling divine manifestation hanging around his neck..I
thanked him for the info and asked him if I can touch his feet to
which he agreed, bowing down on his feet, I asked to Swami for a
spark of THAT GRACE to be passed on
Tomorrow (Saturday) morning we will have Nithya Pooja
Maha Sudarshana Homam.
Mahapoornahuthi by Swami
Abhishekam to Sri Sudarshana Alwar, which will be followed by
Mahamangala Arathi.
With Pranams at the Lotus feet of our beloved Lord,
R.Satish Naik
Received on 17.07.2010
Prasanthi News - Prasanthi Programmes
The past Five days or so have been reverberating
with soothing music and cultural activities in Kulwanth Hall in the
Divine presence.
Two days of Programmes of the Rajasthan Devotees,
two days of American performance and the wonderful Russian Programme
yesterday capturing the hearts of Swami and everyone present.
Yesterday after a few soul stirring Russian songs the singers
smoothly transited to Bhajans which are sung everyday in Kulwanth
Hall and everyone was captivated with their near perfect diction and
heartfelt rendition.
Even after the completion of the Programme,
Swami with great joy kept asking for more Bhajans.
To the greatest joy of everyone, Swami has been coming for both
Morning Darshan at around 10am and stays till around 12 noon,and in
the evenings Swami gives Divine Darshan at around 4.30pm and due to
the various
Programmes, the evening session extends till
7.30pm. The Weather also has been marvellous with heavy downpours
and cool breeze.
Tommorow till Sunday, Kulwanth Hall will be vibrating to the Divine
stories of the Alwars as the Sri Alwarula Bhakthi Samrajya Mahotsvam
starts tommorow and ends on Sunday. (see below)
The Most Sacred
Sri Alwarula Bhakthi Samrajya Mahotsvam would be conducted in
Prasanthi Nilayam in Bhagawan's Divine Presence from 14th July to
18th July 2010.
The Complete
Programme Schedule is as follows :
14th July -
Wednesday :
6.00am -
Shuddha Punyavachanam - Consecration of Sri Ranganatha Swami and
Alwar Idols.
7am - 7:30am
- Sri Sathya Sai Ashtothram Chanting by all Devotees.
Evening Programme :
4pm - 4:30 pm -
Nithya Pooja - Lighting of the lamp by Swami which will be followed
by a talk by Sri. Srikanta Rao from Bengaluru on Sri Poigai Alwar,
Sri Bhoodattalwar and Sri Peyalwar.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15th July - Thursday :
7am to 7:30 am
Nithya Pooja
7:30am to8am
Chanting of Sai Gayathri 108 times by all devotees
Evening Programme :
4pm to 4:30 pm - Talk by Sahasravadhani Sri.Medasani Mohan from
Tirupathi on Sri.Thirumalishai Alwar, Sri.Kulashekhara Alwar and
Sri.Periyalwar.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
16th July - Friday :
7am to 8 am
Consecration of 18 Kalashas - Sri Sudarshana Moola Mantra Japam.
Evening Programme :
4 pm to 4:30
pm Nithya Pooja.
Followed by talk
by Sri.Dr.Lakshmanaiah from Tirupathi who will speak on Sri.Andal,
Sri Thondaradippodi Alwar.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
17th
July - Saturday :
6:30am
Nithya Pooja - Maha Sudarshana Homam. - Mahapoor nahuthi by Swami.
Abhishekam to
Sri Sudarshana Alwar followed by Mahamangala Aarathi.
Evening Programme :
4pm to 4:30 pm
Nithya Pooja.
Followed by a
talk by Srikanta Rao from Bengaluru on Sri Thirumangai Alwar, Sri
Nammalwar and Sri Madhurakavi Alwar.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18th July
- Sunday :
7:30
am Mahasankalpam, Nithya Pooja
8.00 am Pushpayagam
Evening Programme :
4pm - Nithya
Pooja
Followed by Sri
Sathya Sai Sathyanarayana Vratham by 851
Couples.
Reading of Sri
Sathya Sai Sathyanarayana Katha which will be followed by Mangala
Arathi.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy : KM - 13.07.2010
SRI ALWARULA BHAKTHI SAMRAJYA MAHOTSAVAM PROGRAMME SCHEDULE
Om Sairam dearest Sai Family,
With the divine grace of our beloved Lord, SRI
ALWARULA BHAKTHI SAMRAJYA MAHOTSAVAM would be conducted in the
divine presence from 14th July to 18th July 2010.
A brief background about the ALWARS:
The Alwars were great Bhakths (devotees) of Lord
Maha Vishnu who lived in South India (Tamil nadu) between 5th and
9th centuries A.D.
In Tamil Alwar means "without any other thought,
other than that of the atrributes of Sriman Narayana". Tweleve in
number, the Alwars were Divine incarnations or attendants of Lord
Narayan. They came from all walks of life and all strata of society.
Ever immersed in adoring God, the Alwars
revitalised devotional worship throughout the Indian sub continent.
They travelled from place to place and composed beautiful poetry to
their beloved Lord Vishnu.
In their celestial ecstasy, the Alwars composed
4000 verses (pasurams) in Tamil. The Pasurams describe the Divine
Leelas and reveal the teachings of the Vedas in simple terms.
The twelve Alwars are Sri Poigai Alwar from Kanchipuram, Sri
Bhudattalwar (mahabalipuram), Sri Peyalwar (Mylapore), Sri
Thirumalisai Alwar (Thirumalaisai), Sri Kulasekharalwar (Kollinagaram),
Sri Periyalwar (Srivalliputhur), Sri Thirumangai Alwar (Thirukurayalur),
Sri Nammalwar (Kurugur), Sri Mashurakavi Alwar (Thirukollur), Sri
Andal (Srivalliputhur), Sri Thondaradippodi ALwar (Thirumandangudi),
Sri Thiruppani Alwar (Niglapuram).
Our beloved Lord who is the Divine incarnation of
Lord Sriman Narayana Himself has said in one discourse about Sri
Kulasekharalwar "Every one must strive to fill their hearts with
True devotion. Constant contemplation on the form of the Lord and
frequent repetition of His name are teh means by which the heart is
filled with the love of God. When this love is there, the devotee is
filled with inexpressible joy. It was out of such ecstasy that
Kulasekhara Alwar, the royal saint, exclaimed, O Lord! people talk
of liberation as the means of redeeming one's life and getting rid
of birth and death. I do not ask for such redemption. I shall be
content with loving you and serving you in countless lives. Allow me
to love you and serve you-that is the only blessing I seek from you,
and not liberation!"
The programme will start on
Wednesday 14th July 2010 at 6am at Sai
Kulwanth hall with Shuddha Punyavachanam, consecration of Sri
Ranganatha Swami and Alwar Idols.
7am to 7:30am chanting of Sri Sathya Sai
Ashtottram by all devotees.
4pm to 4:30 pm Nithya Pooja
Lighting of the lamp by Swami which will be
followed by a talk by Sri. Srikanta Rao from Bengaluru on Sri Poigai
Alwar, Sri Bhoodattalwar and Sri Peyalwar.
Thursday 15th July, 2010
7am to 7:30 am Nithya Pooja
7:30am to8am Chanting of Sai Gayathri 108 times
by all devotees
4pm to 4:30 pm a talk by SAHASRAVADHANI Sri.Medasani mohan from
Tirupathi who will speak on Sri.Thirumalishai Alwar,
Sri.Kulashekhara Alwar and Sri.Periyalwar.
Friday, 16th July, 2010
7am to 8 am Consecration of 18 Kalashas Sri
Sudarshana Moola Mantra Japam.
4 pm to 4:30 pm Nithya Pooja.
A talk by Sri.Dr.Lakshmanaiah from Tirupathi who
will speak on Sri.Andal, Sri Thondaradippodi Alwar.
Saturday, 17th July 2010
6:30am Nithya Pooja
Maha Sudarshana Homam.
Mahapoornahuthi by Swami
Abhishekam to Sri Sudarshana Alwar, which will be
followed by Mahamangala Arathi.
4pm to 4:30 pm Nithya Pooja.
A talk by Srikanta Rao from Bengaluru on Sri
Thirumangai Alwar, Sri Nammalwar and Sri Madhurakavi Alwar.
Sunday, 18th July, 2010
7:30 am Mahasankalpam, Nithya Pooja
8 am Pushpayagam
4pm Nithya Pooja
Sri Sathya Sai Sathyanarayana Vratham by 851
couples
Reading of Sri Sathya Sai Sathyanarayana Katha
which will be followed by Mangala Arathi.
With Pranams at the Lotus feet of our beloved Lord,
R.Satish Naik
sent on 13.07.2010
JULY 12TH 2010 RUSSIAN CHOIR DARSHAN UPDATE
Om Sairam dearest Sai Family,
For the past four days, Swami's schedule has been
very hectic with plays, music sessions, choirs from various groups
that are here in Parthi. There is more coming this week when Sri
Alwarula Bhakthi samrajya Mahotsavam will be commencing on
Wednesday, 14th to Sunday 18th July. Sunday at 4o clock will be the
Sri Sathyanarayana Vratham (reading of Sri Sathya Sai Narayana
Katha ) in which 851 selected couples would be attending.
After yesterday's scintillating performance by
the US native American group it was the turn of a SUPERB TEAM
PERFORMANCE by 12 Russian speaking countries to steal the show.
The love Swami has for Russians is well known to
Sai Family. When ever He gets a chance, He pours His unsullied love
on them. One would very well remember, when Swami during the
Shivarathri 2007 discourse said, I LOVE YOU RUSSIA.
This evening, the stage was beautifully
decorated. The roof of the dais had VIBGYOR wall hangings and in the
middle was a beautiful photo of Swami.
Every one in the group were traditionally dressed
with white tops and blue pants with a blue ribbon like thing tied
around the waist. The sisters dresses also matched and every one on
the sisters' side had a crown of flowers. The devotees from the 12
countries numbering about 400 were seated in the middle of Sai
Kulwanth hall.
Devotees from countries like Ukraine, Uzbekistan,
Russia, Khazakistan need a special mention here. They would be the
highest number of devotees from Non-English speaking countries.
Inspite of the language barrier, they are very curious to know about
Swami and His teachings.
Every year, they force Prof. Anil Kumar to talk
to them with the help of a Russian translator. i happened to attend
most of the sessions and the kind of questions they pose (all
spiritual though) would make even Prof. Kumar speechless. They are
very keen in spirituality and by atttending those sessions with
Prof. Kumar and Russians, i learnt many good things.
Swami knows their urge, He knows their love for
Him and He always makes sure that they are not left alone.
This afternoon, the same love flowed incessantly
and we devotees had no other option but just take a dip in the ocean
of love. That holy dip was soul stirring, energising our senses and
made us jump in ecstasy.
back to the programme, as the Veda chanting was
still on, Swami blessed the august gathering with His divine darshan
around 5:25 pm. Seated majestically on His mobile car chair, Swami
entered the Sai Kulwanth hall. As is the traditon now a days, Swami
threw a small packet of vibhuthi on the ladies's side and stopped a
while interacting with sisters from USA , Russia and then moved on
towards the gents' side. The Second USA group was seated in their
normal position next to the clock gate and Swami moved on bit
further. There is another group from Punjab Sai Youth comprising of
about 400 of them. Swami briefly interacted with the group members
and moved further. Now and then, Swami was signalling for letters to
be taken and after a complete round of darshan, Swami came on to the
dais.
After listening to the veda chanting, Swami
signalled for the veda chanting to stop thus paving way for a
beautiful RUSSIAN EVENING which was very much a delightful SAI
RUSSIAN EVENING.
It was announced in Russianised English that they
were going to offer a collection of songs, a devotional choir
represented by 12 Russian speaking countries. Before the
commencement of the choir, devotees representing their respective
countries, marched from the Clock gate towards the dais with thier
flags in hand.
The choir had beautiful collection of songs in
Russian. Even though non-russians couldn't understand the songs, but
the devotion with which they were sung was clearly visible. After
about 15 quick songs, one sister from the group sang "Salamolekum"
hindi bhajan which stole every one'e heart. A special mention that
needs to be known here is many of the group members were muslims who
practice and follow Islam with utmost devotion and faith.the next
bhajan was sung by a brother in the group. after two bhajans, Swami
signalled for the choir again. The Russian conductor, who was taken
back by the sudden call took her baton and waved in the air and the
group sang in unison few more Russian songs.
The conductor like it is a tradition was bowing
to Swami after every song. After about 4 songs, Swami signalled with
His left hand to the sister to come towards Him. She thought, Swami
asked her to sit down and thus she sat down. Swami signalled again
to come and she still didn't get the message and finally she
understood the DIVINE SIGN and she ran upto to Swami in happiness.
The whole assemblage was in rapt attention, watching those tiny,
beautiful right hand of Swami. As the composer sister, got close to
Swami, the DIVINE hand made two circular motion and in the third
circle, the fingers suddenly closed up to catch the DIVINE
MATERIALISATION which was materialised from the thin air. That
moment of the visibility of the divine golden chain, if watched
closely, will make your eyes shine. What a great scene it was!! A
divine moment indeed. Just a day ago, we got the opportunity to see
Swami do this to another sister from the USA group.
As the chain was materialised, the composer's
happiness knew no bounds. Forget the composer, we devotees were
doubly happy to see that SUPER NATURAL moment.Initially the chain
looked small but as Swami, slowly slipped around the sister's neck
(very rarely we see this, usually Swami hands over the chain) the
chain seemed to stretch a bit and in no time she had it around her
neck. Showing the chain, Swami said something to her and she smiled
back in return.
The group head then went upto Swami to know what
next. Swami signalled for one bhajan to be sung by them and in no
time a brother sang. After the bhajan, Swami called up another
sister from the group. Swami asked her to sing a bhajan. As the
saying goes, YOU SHOULD NOT JUST BE READY BUT EVER READY, as you
can't predict the DIVINE CALL. Sister sang Shirdi Sai bhajan. A pure
hindi bhajan but was sung very neatly with utmost devotion.
After she finished the bhajan, the group leader
went upto Swami and Swami said, one more bhajan. Vithala hari
Vithala bhajan was sung and the group leader goes to Swami and Swami
says, how about one more bhajan. Every time He asked for one more
bhajan, the crowd burst into laughter and Swami joined us.
While the bhajans were on, Swami called up
brother Ranjit and in few minutes, thanks to the modern day
technology, brother Ranjit brings a A3 size PHOTOGRAPH OF THE DAY.
Swami called the composer and showed her photo with Swami
materialising the chain and every one joined their hands for a huge
round of applauds. Sister while she walked to her seat, very proudly
showed her photograph with the DIVINE, that photo, which will
probably be worshipped along with Swami by the future generations.
Swami asked for 8 bhajans and then ended this DIVINE ROMANCE with
the DIVINE when Swami asked for arathi. Today's arathi was shared by
the Russians and it was a very different blend of Indian and
Russianised Arathi.
After arathi, Swami stayed there for a while and
He probably didn't want to leave the chosen ones, raising His hands,
showering His blessings, Swami headed to His divine Abode thus
ending a beautiful Sai Day..
A day which said, you don't need pomp and show to
win His heart, you don't need Status and Symbol to win His heart,
you don't need Money and Power to win His heart just, just a PURE
HEART is enough to WIN HIS HEART..
With Pranams at the Lotus feet of our beloved
Lord,
R.Satish Naik.
posted on 12.07.2010
Recent Miracle in Prasanthi Nilayam.....Swami's
prescription for Global Peace and Well-being
Sairam,
This month, the State Youth Coordinator of Karnatka Sri Vinay Kumar
came with his friend to Prashanti Nilayam. His Friend has met a n
accident recently in which his leg has been badly damaged & he is
unable to move his leg & walk. He had lost all hopes of life. He
came to P. Nilayam....Sri Vinay Kumar apprised Bhagwan about the
tragedy that his friend has met...& prayed Bhagwan to cure him......Bhagwan
Just gave a Beautiful & enchanting smile to his friend...... .Lo &
Behold.....His friend began to feel that he can walk & he
walked.....in front of everyone.... .we all were surprised...
.........
Then Sri Vinay Kumar asked Bhagwan...''Swami ...by your mere look
you cured my friend (without touching)... .why can't you cure
yourself" ?
To this question, Bhagwan replied that you people have created a lot
& extensive damage & disturbance in the five elements.... .that's
why the effects of that I have taken on my Body.....
Then again Vinay Kumar asked "Swami ...how could we eliminate the
disturbances ...so that all the five elements remains intact'
Bhagwan Said "Do three Things
1.) Chant Vedam (Rudram) that's why I have daily 1hr + 1hr Rudram
Chanting here in P. Nilayam ( Morning & Evening)
2.) Sing Bhajans with full devotion & dedication.. ..(that's why I
have extended Bhajan Sessions here in P. Nilayam
3.) Do Seva...Self- less Service with full dedication & surrender"
Practice all the three...
sent on 10.07.2010 by brother R. Gopal
Prasanthi Update - Today, Wednesday morning Darshan
Swami came to Kulwanth Hall today morning at
8.50am as the Vedam chanting continued, Swami then went for full
round of Darshan giving jy to everyone and the came on stage at 9am.
Bhajans went on till 9.30am and Swami then accepted Mangala Aarthi
and retired to the Divine Residence. It has been drizzling
continuously since today morning.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy: KM - Wednesday, 7 July, 2010
Prasanthi Update - Wonderful Sunday Morning Darshan
Sunday, 4 July, 2010
Swami came very early today morning at 7.55am. Swami went for a full
Darshan round and then went into the Bhajan hall wherein He spoke
for about 30 Minutes with some people of the Karnataka Youth.
Afterwards Swami came on stage to the wonderful chants of the Vedam
recited group enmasse by the Students of the Primary School, High
School and the University. It was an Amazing experience which had
Kulwanth Hall filled with the most Divine Vibrations. Swami sat for
almost 30 minutes listening to the Wonderful Chanting before
accepting Mangala Aarthi at 9.05am, Swami then left for Yajur
Mandiram at 9.10am blessing everyone on the way.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy: KM - 04.07.2010
JULY 1ST 2010 DARSHAN UPDATE FROM PRASANTHI NILAYAM
Om Sairam dearest Sai Family,
Greetings and pranams from the holy land Parthi. Puttaparthi is
quite busy with devotees coming to have the divine darshan, from all
over the world, not to forget presently camping, huge group from the
USA, who are having a beautiful time with our Lord, completely
immersed in the most memorable days of their stay in Prasanthi. For
every one, the stay in this beautiful tiny spiritual hamlet is a
paradise. Inspite of His omnipresence and omniscience, every one who
Know Him want to make a visit to His abode on a physical level. When
your mobile phone battery dies, you have to charge it from the
electric socket and Puttaparthi is the electric socket, where every
one ought to RECHARGE their SPIRITUAL BATTERIES to regain the
momentum and come on Sai Path.
Sensing the need for the physical visit, Swami has blessed all the
countries in the world this year, to come to Parthi and every
country has given a slot in this holy YEAR OF THE ADVENT OF OUR
BELOVED LORD, who will turn 85 this year (the body).
This evening, it was yet another beautiful day of Prasanthi. Being a
Thursday, Swami's primary school children were also present and the
atmosphere was completely charged especially during the Veda
chanting, when brother Veda Narayana's commanding and divinely voice
goes missing, to the FULL THROATED primary school children's
chanting.
Swami blessed the august gathering with His divine darshan at 5:15
pm and Swami today made us all jump in ecstasy by giving a very
lengthy up close darshan. It is all His immense grace that we get a
chance like this to see Him from close quarters.
Swami went into the bhajan hall and then came on to the dais..
As soon as He reached the dais, the veda chanting was to the
maximum. children from His institute showed their love and
gratitude, to the VEDA PURUSHA who very fortunately is also their
CHANCELLOR. Swami very sweetly smiled at His THURSDAY tiny tots and
around 6pm Swami very slowly signalled for the veda chanting to
stop. It was a very soft gesture, but the attentive boys, stopped
the veda chanting which was followed by a beautiful BURRA KATHA
Burrakatha, a story telling technique famous in the states of Andhra
Pradesh and some parts of Tamilnadu, started as devotional songs of
nomadic people and became a popular art form in late 60s and now it
has been discarded in the recent past. Burrakatha has three
characters. The main story teller (called as Kathakudu) narrates the
story. He plays Burra ( a musical instrument which looks like veena
also called as Tambura and dances to music. He also wears a metal
ring called as andelu on his right thumb, holds another ring in his
other hand and adds more music by colliding them frequently. The
co-performers plays gummeta (also called as dakki or budike), earthen
drums with two heads. All three or only kathakadu will be wearing
anklets (also called as gajjelu), which add even more music when they
dance.
The right side performer (called as the hasyaka, means joker) acts as
a joker and cracks satires and jokes. The left side performer (called
as the rajakiya, means politician) acts as a person who knows
worldly ways and talks about politics and social issues. The main
performer and co-performers constantly addressing each other. The
co-performers interrupts him with doubts, and they sometimes add
emphasis on the main events in the story with short words similar to
"Wow!" ,"aaha" and "That's it ".
Swami, when He announced the start of Sri Sathya Sai Mirpuri College
of Music, stated that all the ancient forms of music and dance which
has been forgotten due to the influence of cinema and TV will have a
RE ENTRY into the society with more freshness and innovation.
Those words of Swami, is now a reality. This evening, the Burrakatha
was a complete entertainer and a grand beginning for those three
students, for whom it was a maiden show at His immediate presence.
It is Swami alone, who is capable of making students perform stunts
like they do in circus, beautiful dramas, singing etc. This evening
the three students, of whom two were doing their M.Sc and the third
one BA made us feel as if they are experienced Burrakatha artists.
there was no trace of errors or fumbles and Swami who was watching
their maiden performance was all praise and blissful. Swami, is
always proud of His students, infact the students make Him proud
with their extraordinary talents.
This evening the sweet story of Lavakusha (the two sons of Lord Rama)
was sung in the presence of Sai Rama with utmost devotion and love.
the three students were asked to face little bit towards the East
Prasanthi, just in front of the dais and the 50 minutes programme
took us into threta Yuga, the Rama Yuga which made all of us feel as
if we were much there. The Burrakatha is to be enjoyed for its
humour, values and the moral of the story. It is a sweet performance
which will tell any complicated issue in a very simple manner. At
the end, the students sang the glory of our beloved Lord, asking us
to sing His bhajans in order to climb the ladder to His Abode
Swami then called up the three students on the dais and interacted
with them in length and the divine hand made a small circular motion
from which came a beautiful ring straight from the divine factory
which was gifted to the singer. then Swami called upon the
background artists, who gave a beautiful music for the programme. It
was a complete team effort but for the three students, Iam sure
Swami has a BIG PLAN and they will be one of the most sought out
Burrakatha artists.
The story that was told, was never heard before. Every one could
feel the freshness in the subject and story line. We pray that Swami
will be blessing them with more performances in the near future.
After blessing the students with group photo, Swami signalled for
arathi and the beautiful evening with our beloved Sai ended at 7:20
pm. Swami after blessing every one with His Abhaya hasta retired for
the day (physically) , hoping for a new morning tomorrow..
With pranams at the Lotus feet of our beloved Lord,
R.Satish Naik..
Posted on 02.07.2010
Prasanthi Update - Wonderful Thursday evening
session
Yesterday on Thursday Evening, it was a wonderful Evening session at
the Lotus Feet. Swami came for Darshan as early as 5.15pm which was
a sharp contrast to Swami's earlier Darshan timings. Swami then took
two full rounds of Darshan to the delight, happiness and joy of
everyone present.
A 'Burrakatha' Programme was prepared by the Students of the
University and they were ready with costumes. Swami then went inside
the Bhajan Hall and spoke to the three students who were ready to
perform. Swami then came out and sat outside as the Vedam Chanting
continued.
After some time, Swami sent word for the Programme to start. The
three singers did well to retain the attention of the audience
throughout the Programme and the songs, the dialogues were very
good.
Swami was very happy as He blessed them and also materialized a
beautiful Green Diamond ring for the Lead Singer and put it on his
finger. Mangala Aarthi was offered at 7.15pm, and after blessing
Prasadam for the Primary School Children, Swami retired to Yajur
Mandiram thereby ending a Most Wonderful and Glorious Evening
Session.
Om Sai Ram
Posted by KM - on 02.07.2010
The Raja of Venkatgiri with Bhagawan during His
younger days.....
The Raja of Venkatagiri Passes away - A Great
Devotee of the Lord
A Great and a very Long standing Devotee of Swami
- the Raja of Venkatagiri passed away on account of bad health on
Monday evening. Let us all Sai Brothers and Sisters pray for His
soul which has merged with our Divine Lord.
Venkatagiri has a wonderful and a very Special place in Sai History,
Swami's performed innumerable miracles in this small town, Below are
2 Wonderful Miracles :
The Raja of Venkatagiri was from the royal family that once ruled
over Venkatagiri near the temple town of Tirupati. He was one of the
privileged few who came to Baba when He was in His twenties. The
Raja was a prince of the old school. A well built man of stately
physique, he was educated in England, mixed in international social
circles, hunted big game and played polo. He had a princely
demeanour, and the manners and speech of an English gentleman. Yet
in religious matters he was a very orthodox Hindu. The Raja and
members of his family have over the years experienced wonderful
miracles of Baba. Here are two of them recorded by Howard Murphet:
“The Raja's second son was one of a party of men driving along with
Baba by car from Madras to Puttaparti on one occasion. Not far from
Chittoor in Andhra Pradesh they stopped to have a picnic by the
roadside.
After they had eaten the main course, Baba asked what fruit they
would like for a dessert. They proved to be a very difficult party;
one asked for a mango, another for an apple, a third for an orange,
and the fourth for a juicy pear.
"You'll find them all on that tree over there," Baba said, pointing
to a wild tree growing nearby.
They rushed to the tree full of excitement, for they had learned
that anything was possible with Baba. Sure enough on one branch of
that wild tree hung the fruits they had named - a mango, an apple,
an orange and a pear. They plucked them and declared that the
flavours were of rare excellence.”
It was one of the earliest visits of the young twenty-four- year-old
Swami to Venkatagiri. A party of between twenty and thirty people
left the palace in a fleet of cars for a drive in the country.
Baba, who had never been in the area before, asked the Raja to stop
by any patch of sand they might happen to see. A few miles further
on, they came to a dry sandy river-bed. Here they stopped, and all
sat on the sand around the young Swami. After talking for a while,
He rolled His sleeve up to His elbow and thrust His arm deep into
the sand before Him.
“Then”, the Raja told me (Murphet), "we all heard a strange sawing
sound - at least that's what it seemed like. I asked Baba what the
sound was, and He replied enigmatically that the goods were being
manufactured in Kailash."
Kailash, incidentally, is the abode of Shiva, the God associated
with yoga, yogic powers and divine grace bestowed on mortals. Many
Sai devotees believe that Baba is himself an incarnation of the
Shiva-Shakti aspect of divinity.
As Baba withdrew His arm from the sand there was a great flash of
blue light that spread to a circle of some ten feet in radius. Then
they all saw that Baba was holding in His hand something about eight
inches in height and made of pure white sphatika (crystal).
It proved to be a statue of Rama, one of the avatars, together with
His consort, Sita. After everyone had seen this "gift from Kailash",
Baba handed it to the veiled Rani of Venkatagiri, telling her to
wrap it in silk and leave it thus covered until the following day.
When it was unwrapped the day after, the white stone had turned
blue. The little statue now stands in the Raja's shrine-room - still
the colour, he says, of the blue light that flashed forth at the
moment it was drawn from the sands.
Reference: “Sai Baba: Man of Miracles” by Mr. Howard Murphet. Page:
156-158 (paperback edition, 1972). Published by Macmillan India Ltd.
Om Sai Ram
Posted by KM - 01.07.2010
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