PARTHI NEWS

Prasanthi Update - Divine end to the Rama Sapthaha Yagnam

On Sunday morning was the scheduled Pattabhishekam - the ceremony where Lord Rama is crowned as the ruler of Ayodhya and the Supreme master of the three worlds. A procession stood ready at the Gopuram gate of the Mandir. At about 9:00 AM, Bhagawan came on the chair for Darshan, Swami moved very slowly through the Darshan Lines giving Wonderful Darshan to everyone on this most holy Day.

After completing Darshan, Swami came and sat on the stage and the the proceedings began. There were three of the most Beautiful idols of Rama, Lakshmana and Sita with a huge Anjaneya statue below.

The first part of the programme was the Panchamrutha Abhishekam. All The idols were bathed in Honey, Ghee,Curd, Sugar,Tender coconut water and lastly Milk. Each and every item was brought to Swami for His Divine Blessings before they were taken for Abhishekam to the idols. And each Abhishekam was followed by a water bath through specially made silver ladles. Then the camphor and wicks would be lit and an Aarthi performed to them. The whole hall vibrated with the holy feelings and energy of the Lord. It was such a thrilling sight to see the idols in all their beauty being bathed thus. This was followed by the Theerthabhishekam. Water from the various holy rivers in India were poured over the idols. Swami listened intently to the names of the various rivers being read out. As each pot was taken to Him for blessing, He enquired into the names of the rivers. Even Chitravathi water was present. A beautiful and grand silver plate was held over all the idols. This plate was perforated and water was poured on it. It must have been a very special Pattabhishekam for Lord Rama as Sai Rama was presiding over it.

As the ceremonial baths were completed, the priests sought Swami's permission to curtain and cordon off the area of the sanctum sanctorum as the Lords had to be "dressed" up for the day's "crowning moment"! Swami agreed with a smile and a red curtain was drawn around the Lords. As Rama was 'hidden' from the devotees' view, Swami decided to grant a special darshan. He went through the inner portico and then went around the students for a darshan round. He took a few letters and granted many smiles and Abhayahasthas. By the time Swami came on stage, the idols were almost ready..

The Alankaram ("decoration" will be a simple translation for that word.) to the idols was on when Swami was requested permission to bring the Pattabhirama idol in procession. Swami agreed and the procession began. From the Gopuram gate, the idols arrived in a grand and gay procession. The statues were brought on stage and installed there. The Vedic chanting had begun and was on in full flow on Swami's command. As the curtain was drawn, there was a loud applause as everyone marveled the grandeur and beauty of the idols. Then the actual Pattabhisheka Mahotsavam began. There was the Parayanam of the Pattabhishekam Ghattam with the Shadashopachara pooja.. The various aarthis and the Rajaasheervadam were also performed. Swami kept smiling so beautifully and then blessed the crowns to be placed on the idols. Swami looked so radiant as the idols were crowned. He looked the actual emperor and His wonderful mop of black hair swaying gently in the light breeze that had begun looked like a Divine crown.

When the entire ceremony was complete, Swami called the two main priests and simultaneously materialised Gold chains with pendants for them. All the priests then went one by one to Swami and offered jasmine flowers at His feet. Swami blessed each one of them and gifted watches to all of them. It was such a beautiful sight to see Swami's feet loaded with sweet scented jasmine flowers.

Swami then asked for the bhajans to begin. He blessed the Prasadam to be distributed. As the prasadam was being distributed, He sat for about four bhajans. Then receiving Aarthi and blessing everyone, He left at about 11:30 am.

In the evening, the Jhoolotsavam had been planned. The idols were placed on a beautifully adorned and decorated Jhoola. Swami arrived at 4:30 pm in the chair and He cut through to the interview room after the ladies side. As soon as He arrived on stage, the priests offered the flowers to be placed on the idols for blessings to Swami. Then they offered a garland of lotuses at His feet. Another beautiful sight to see the lotuses form a circumference around the Lotus feet.

With His blessings began the Jhoolotsavam. As the priests gently rocked the swing and performed poojas, Swami sat watching. Then a there was a wonderful Vocal recital of Keertanas by Sri.M.G.Venkataraghavan from Bangalore who sang for about 45 minutes As he sang, Swami went into the interview room for a short while and then returned. This time, He sat facing the jhoola. After a few more songs, Swami told the students to sing. The perfect host that He is, He asked the singer, "Can these children sing one or two songs?" Swami teaches lessons every moment. He is the supreme emperor and His every word defines Truth as every action of His defines Dharma (Righteousness). But He follows all the courtesies and respect with everyone.

The first song of the students began with an alaap filled with gamakas. The opening sequence itself drew appreciative and thunderous applause from the audience. Two more songs followed. The final song was on Swami's avatarhood in our midst and it was lapped up by the divine-thirsty audience with a steady and heavy clapping of hands.

As the song concluded, on Swami's command, the bhajan with shlokam alaap-Sree Raghavam- began. What a sight it was! The students rendering soulful tunes, Swami swaying and swinging to the tunes and the priests tuning their swing pushing to the rhythm going on. The smell of incense and dhoop made the atmosphere heavenly.

Swami in the meanwhile blessed prasadam to be distributed to all. He also called the Kirthan-singing Vidwan and his troupe to the stage and gifted them with silk cloth. He honoured them by placing it on their shoulders and they redeemed themselves by falling at His feet! As the bhajans concluded, Swami called one of the students who incidentally had his birthday also on the same day and asked him,"Where are the holy grains?" The boy got up and rushing to Swami with a tray that he picked up from a nearby birthday boy, bent down his head to receive blessings. Swami blessed him and then pointing to two seva dal boys sitting near a pillar said, "They have no received the prasadam that has just been distributed. Go give them prasadam." The boy did as He was told and all - the seva dal boys who were recipients of His love. Swami remembers everything.

Swami then called two boys on stage and told them, "Sit here. we will have Ramakatha." Saying thus and blessing them, Swami went into the interview room. It was 6:45 pm then. Hurried preparations for these two students to render the musical Ramakatha, which Swami loves so much, were being made. Mikes were brought and the stage was set. Swami came out soon.. He asked the boys to sit close to Him.

Then, all of a sudden, Swami asked for His mike to be brought! He started with the famous, "Premaswaroopulara" and the claps that followed were deafening. Swami then started singing, "Kausalyatmaja Ramacharan". Everyone soon realized that Swami was leading them in a wonderful bhajan session. Swami then started singing the names of Lord Rama.

The lines were all composed on the spot and so were the tunes. The bhajan that He was singing went on for 10- minutes or so. The lines were all about the wonderful name and form of Rama. As the last part of the bhajan, Swami started to sing "Rama Namame Melu, Rama Chintane Chaalu" in the tune of "Kausalyatmaja Rama Charan." Then he asked the students to pick up from there and gently closed His eyes. The bhajan tempo picked up and so did the volume and pitch. A thrill ran through one's spine and the sheer power and glory of united singing was demonstrated subtly by Swami. The wordings are not so important, nor is the bhajan tune. All must follow it and sing whole heartedly- that's all what Swami wants.

As the bhajan concluded, it was about 7:05 pm and so swami's mike was removed. After a few minutes, Swami asked for the mike and began to speak.

A Summary of the Divine Discourse is given below:

It is very important that We all sing together. It is much more effective than individual singing. If a thousand people call out to Rama together, at least one cry will surely touch Him.

Kausalya and Dasharatha had a daughter named Shanta. She was married away to a sage and in fact she was the one who conducted the Putrakameshti Yagna to beget sons for the 3 queens. When the pudding that emerged was distributed equally among the queens, Sumitra cried out, "Kausalya is the senior-most queen and her son will have a right over the throne. Kaikeyi's father has received a promise from Dasharatha that her son will be made king. Why should I beget children?" In that mood, she went to the terrace to dry her hair.

Unlike these days, there were no fans then. She was drying it with scented smoke when an eagle came and carried away the pudding. Lamenting, she told it to the other two queens who wholeheartedly shared their shares of pudding with her. Thus were born the four princes. Since birth it was noticed that the twins- Lakshmana and Shatrughna- were crying all the while. Lakshmana was born of Kausalya's portion of the pudding and so was not satisfied and happy until he was placed in the cradle next to Rama. So too, Shatrughna happily suckled his thumb when placed beside Bharatha.

When Ravana arrived to kidnap Sita, Lakshmana had drawn the protective line around the hut and none could touch her. In the first place, she had desired for the golden deer when she had given up all the luxuries of the palace. (She did this to teach all the lesson that when one gives up Rama-God- for the sake of Kama- desire- one is bound to suffer) Ravana then arrived and acted a nice drama that he was very hungry. He then kidnapped Sita. He placed her in Ashokavana with demonesses. But there too, Sarama, Shakini and Daakini took very good care of her. Ravana, though the overlord, did not have the courage to touch Sita. When he came, Sita threw a blade of grass at him and said, "You are not even this blade of Grace in front of my husband when it comes to worth!"

Meanwhile, Rama was given the jewels that Sita had dropped. He told Lakshmana to identify whether they were Sita's as his eyes were covered in tears. These days, every husband keeps a list of all the jewelry his wife has. but Rama never did so. Lakshmana said," Oh brother! I can recognize only the anklets of Mother for I never saw beyond her feet- the feet I worshipped everyday!" Rama entrusted Hanuman to find Sita. And who was Hanuman? The eagle that took the pudding from Sumitra dropped it in the mountains where there was a lady meditating. Who was that lady? (All said loudly, "Anjani Devi Swami") Yes Swami said :Anjani Devi - not the cine star Anjali Devi ! And so Hanuman was an integral part of Rama. He went to Lanka with the only intention of pleasing his Lord. He searched for Sita in the private palaces of Ravana. There were many females and queens there and many hardly wore dresses. Yet Hanuman is the perfect Brahmachaari (celibate). He thought only of finding Sita.

Ravana, in his younger days had tried to force a girl into marriage with him. When he tried dragging her by the hair, she cut off her hair and cursed him,"I am coming again. Then the number of your people who will be destroyed will equal the hair in your hand." Thus she was born as Sita - Vaidehi. Vaidehi means the one without body attachment. She was found by Janaka and was not the daughter of his loins. Vaidehi was married away to Rama.

The Ramayana is full of secrets and great mysteries and power. Just take the name of Rama and all will be taken care of. It was Guru Nanak who first started the trend of singing as groups. All the names of the Lord are the same. God is one. Cows' colours are many, milk is one. Jewels are many, gold is one. So too, treat everyone alike. The Atma or soul in you is Rama. All are one, be alike to everyone. The whole world like the Ramayana is nothing but Rama and Hanuman.( Very significantly many interpreted this statement as the world is made up only of the Lord and devotee - nothing else ever exists. Swami was simultaneously speaking of both Dwaitha and Advaitha) Thats why in the bhajan that the students sang, Rama Lakshmana and Sita came in one line and the other line was on Hanuman.

Swami then said " Hmmm...Swami has put you all to a lot of strain by speaking so much!

Having enjoyed every moment of it, everyone vociferously shouted out, "No Swami". Swami was smiling all the time. He seemed so happy and pleased and that reflected on every soul.

The priests slowly went near Swami and requested for a group picture with Him. Swami beamed a smile and agreed . It was a wonderful Group Photo. Swami then received Mangala Aarthi and it was 8:00 PM.

Divine end to the Rama Saptaha Yagnam.

Om Sai Ram

Courtesy KM - 29.06.2008

28th June Darshan Updates

28 JUNE 2008.. MORNING DARSHAN:

Om Sairam dear Sai Family,

The seven day festival of Ramayana sapthaha Maha Yagnam came to a grand farewell on the seventh day, saturday 28th June 2008.

A day to be remembered by all the Sai Devotees, a cherished memory of beautiful darshans, vedic chants and not to forget the informative and indepth analysis of the holy epic Ramayana by learnt scholars..

The whole festival was a big surprise and very few knew about the programme before hand. Every one thought the first BIG event would be the World Education conference scheduled in July..

Being the last day of the Memorable Seven day Yagna, also being a weekend, Puttaparthi was full to the brim with devotees flown from all the places.. Today was the Pattabhishekam ceremony (coronation) of Lord Rama. A ceremony which would have happened about 5000 years ago will be repeated again, in the immediate presence of Lord Sai Rama.. Just that feeling was enough for the hearts to jump and for tears to flow for the kind of great fortune the few thousand odd people who were invited (divine invitation) to witness the ceremony..

This morning Swami blessed the august gathering with His divine darshan at 9am as priests were chanting vedas and the students joining them in chorus..

This morning,the programme started with Abhishekam (a ritual of bathing the idols with water, ghee, curd and so on.. water from all the holy rivers one could think of were brought for the same.. All the idols, with a beautiful shine, were placed before the Ganesha on the dias.. Swami was facing towards east Prasanthi to see the Abhishekam ceremony.. The priests took plates of fruits, coconut, other puja items to Swami for His blessings..

Silver containers with the holy water were taken each time to Swami for His blessings before they were poured on the idols. One of the priests was announcing the name of the river the water is from and the abhishekam started with holy river of this Kali Age, Chitravathi. After taking blessings from Swami the priest poured the same into a plate with holes placed on the top of the idols and the abhishekam ceremony started..

The priests later applied kumkum, turmeric and other things to the idols and as the clock struck 10:30, as the rahu kalam (inauspicious time for today) passed by, Swami signaled for the palanquin to be brought into Kulwanth hall. The palanquin with idols of Rama, Sita entered through the big gate across the stage into Kulwanth hall. The back ground music, the priests coming into the ceremony, made the entire atmosphere more energetic and spiritually powerful.

The palanquin took a full round towards the gents' lines and reached on the stage. After 5 minutes, it was all set for the final coronation ceremony to start..

Swami was keenly watching the whole proceedings, guiding the priests.. After chanting mantras, one of the priest brought the three crowns in a plate for Swami to bless them. They were in golden colour, bit tiny to fit into the idols.. Swami blessed them with a smile. and the crowns were slipped on to the idols

Swami then called two young priests close to Him, while speaking to them, the divine hand made less than 3 circular motions and there came golden chains. The priests, who were not expecting this UNEXPECTED manifestation were wonder struck and before they could come back to normalcy, our wonderful Lord slipped the chains around their necks as we all watched and joined our hands congratulating them for receiving the divine gift, fresh from the SAI FACTORY...

A real treat to watch, it was just so mesmerising experience.. I tried my best if I remembered, seeing the coronation ceremony of Lord Rama, but in vain, but for sure, it is a grace for all of us to be here, to watch the same ceremony, of the same God, who has come with a different body and a bit different name in this Kali age, but for the same cause, welfare of the Humanity..

It was getting close to 11 am, and I looked into my pocket to see if I had any tokens for the South Indian canteen, hoping to break my fast after darshan, ignoring the fact that our dear Sai Maa, knows when you are hungry and when to feed. In telugu there is a proverb, (ADAGANIDEY AMMAINA ANNAM PETTADU) Unless you ask even your own mother will not serve you food.. but this doesn't hold good to our Sai Ma who is the Mother of Mothers... Just in a minute I could see big vessels of Rice prasad being taken into the hall and I could do nothing, but look at Swami and smile...

After the Coronation ceremony came to an end, Swami asked for Bhajans, Raghupate Raghava Raja Rama, was the bhajan to start with and the devotees from Hyderabad who are here till tomorrow as part of the youth pilgrimage volunteered to serve the divine prasad consisting of tamarind rice, jaggery rice and a Rava Laddu.. What a divine BREAK FAST to

BREAK OUR FAST. Food was served to our hearts content and many took home some food to share with family members..

It was 11:20 by the time every one finished their food and our Sai Ma, seated on the stage watched her children partaking the divine prasad and arathi was given to Bhagawan and thus ended a blissfull morning session...

AFTER NOON DARSHAN:

It was 4:30 pm and the packed Kulwanth hall and packed lane way between Kulwanth hall and East Prasanthi, was eagerly awaiting the arrival of our Beloved Swami.. In few minutes

Swami emerged from His physical abode and to our happiness, He came in His mobile throne. So blessed to have His darshan so openly and two eyes were not enough to see our Lord.

It is bit windy these days, and as HE came in His mobile throne, His hair was dancing reminding the cosmic dance of Shiva, the way He adjusts His hair is also UNIQUE, seated on the chair majestically, the newly coronated KING, I should say, EMPEROR OF THE EMPERORS, the only HOPE of this Kali Age entered into Kulwanth hall, speaking to devotees, accepting letters, smiling at them.. After He came in the middle of the hall, He took a right turn and went on the dais..

This after noon musical programme by Sri Venkata Raghavan and party commenced. He rendered many devotional songs on Rama which included most famous number Antha Rama mayam.. ee jagamantha Ramamayam..

As part of the evening programme, it was JHULA ceremony for the idols and beautifully decorated idols were kept in the craddle (JHULA) as Swami watched the ritual as Sri Venkata Raghavan sang the Jhula Song..

It was 5:40pm by then and Swami now asked the students to take up the proceedings one of the student sang Karya Karana song which was given loud applauds and Swami also smiled at the student in appreciation..

As bhajans were sung, Prasadam was distributed and it was the scheduled programme for the last day and knowing Swami we all were expecting something more but again it was 6:45pm and sounded bit late, but taking all of us by surprise, Swami asked for His discourse mike to be brought. How could He finish off such a memorable one week without the divine discourse? all the priests, even though they had the fortune to speak to Swami during the puja, would be eagerly awaiting to hear as what our Lord thought about them and the rituals they were doing and not to forget we devotees who were desperate to hear His sweet voice, the student hurried inside to get the mike.. Seated in the chair, Swami started His divine discourse, Embodiments of Love... It was a very nice week. The organisers conducted the whole puja in a very good manner. All the priests, who came here, have been very good and did the puja with utmost devotion.. after speaking these 3 sentences, Swami started to sing bhajan. When it is Rama's day, one would think Swami would have sung His usual Prema Mudita or Rama Jayam bhajans but this time it was a double surprise , He sung Kousalyatmaja Rama Charan.. Prasanthi Niketana

Rama Charan.. Rama Charan Sada Bhajo... HE sang the stanzas three times and the whole area was reverberating with RAMA NAMA..

Swami then started another bhajan whose lines goes this way..Rama Rama Jaya Sita Rama, Rama Rama Jaya Raja Rama....and the third bhajan was also there in the offering and the words were as follows.

Rama naama me prema mayam, Rama roopame prema mayam
Rama me premamayam, Rama me prema mayam
Roopame prema mayam,
nee namame chalu (your name is enough)
Nee chintane chalu (remembering your name is enough)

After the bonus 3 bhajans Swami continued His divine discourse which was centerd on NAMASMARANA and its benifits..

Keep chanting the name of Rama. Rama is present in everyone as ATMA RAMA.. ATMA is RAMA..No wealth, no property can give you that bliss like God's name... Sing the Glory of Rama and you will be away from worries.. Puttuka (birth) oka Chinta (is a worry), Chavu oka chinta (death is a worry), JEEVITAM OKA CHINTA (life on earth is a worry ), Yavvanamu oka CHINTHA (young age is a worry) (Vardakyamu oka CHINTA (old age is worry), to remove all these chintas (worries), Rama Chintana(remembering, chanting, the Divine name) is the only resort.. What ever problem you have think of Rama and you will be free from all Worries..

King Dasaratha started singing th glory of Rama. since them Rama's name has been chanted in this world.Swami reminded all of us to chant HIs glory..

Swami also stressed on Group singing. He said, this will help to know more about God, make you more devotional and unity amongst your self..

Swami later narrated the incidents from Ramayana and praised Hanuman for His self less service. He asked all of us to have that kind of selflessness and lead our life in a more spiritual way Swami spoke for 45 minutes and it was 7:40pm by the time Arathi was given to Bhagawan thus ending a beautiful and fruitful day..

The week which was full of information, full of atma gnana, came to an end with a beautiful divine discourse by our Lord, who was really really happy about the organisers and

priests who were HAND PICKED by Him to His ABODE to show direction and information to all the so called BUSY generation...

HOW compassionate you are dear Lord...

THANK YOU FOR LETTING US KNOW WHO WE ARE .... THANK YOU FOR LETTING US KNOW WHAT WE COULD BE... THANK YOU FOR GUIDING US TO YOU......

Satish Naik.....29.06.2008

26 june 2008 Darshan Update

Om Sairam dear Sai Family

The Ramayana Sapthaha Yagnam is in full swing. Being the fifth day, and after the news spread to neighbouring towns, there are quite a lot of people for the yagnam..There is a big group from Hyderabad as well.

This afternoon, Swami came quite early, at 4:15 pm. The hall was almost full by then.. Beautiful Lord, preferred to be wheeled into the hall, after coming into the middle, He took a right turn skipping the gents side.

After darshan rounds, Swami took a round within the verandah, speaking to the elderly people and again came on the stage.. The veda chanting went on for 30 minutes as Swami watched all of us from the dais, called up some students and made some queries and blessed them with Pada namaskar..

It was close to 6 by the time the actual programme started..

This afternoon, as part of the Ramayana satsangs, it was the episode of Hanuman, the chapter known as SUNDARA KANDA.Hanuman is now very famous in the west, thanks to Mr. Obama for carrying the little statue of Hanuman with him..

The speaker who was blessed to speak in His immediate presence was Sri.Rao, from a place called Guntur, (for your records, Prof. Anil Kumar also hails from this place) in the state of Andhra Pradesh.. a learnt speaker and surprisingly has given 2000 talks on Ramayana and one would imagine how capable and able he could be..

After taking permission and blessings from Swami, the speaker who had a sweet voice, spoke on the SUNDARA KANDA, in pure telugu.

Out of Seven Kandas (sections, parts), this KANDA one wouldn't find the Hero of the Epic (Lord Rama). The story runs with just Sita and ardent devotee Hanuman. The Hero is in the Heart of Hanuman and is not seen out side..The speaker said, out of Seven Kandas of Ramayan, Sage Valmiki, the writer, called this particular part as SUNDARA (BEAUTIFUL) KANDA and it was bit of a risk. If a mother with 7 children says, my fifth child is beautiful, it does mean the remaining 6 are not beautiful..

The speaker said, there are lot of reasons and supporting incidents for this Kanda to be called Sundara. The first and foremost is the devotion of Hanuman. If one loses someone, we sent some one who has seen the person, to trace him/her out. But in this case Hanuman had never seen Sita nor Hanuman was related to Lord Rama and yet Rama had immense faith and confidence in Hanuman, which itself, according to Valmiki is Beautiful.

When discussions were going on as who will go and how one would go to Lanka, the kingdom of King Ravana, all the vanaras (monkeys) showed their strengths and courage. Hanuman out played every one and it was decided it will be Hanuman who will occupy the driver's seat..

Sri Rao, put the whole story in a very simple and bit humorous way. HE said, usually when we go for a heavy and challenging task, we always pray to the person (GOD or GURU) whom we know, but it seems Hanuman took the clever way. Sri Rao, said, one should pray to our enemies first , who would be probable candidates for obstructing our tasks and to start with Hanuman first prayed to Sun God. If one looks at Sun for a second

without batting eyelids, it seems he considers it as a defeat and now Hanuman will be flying so high that He would be close to Sun and this would make Sun GOD bit uncomfortable... more over, during his child hood , when Hanuman knew he could fly, he tried to swallow Sun, and to pacify Sun, Hanuman prayed to him saying He is going on a very important task, some thing to do with Lord Rama, who belongs to Sun Dynasty and in a way your relative.

The next person whom Hanuman prayed was VAYU, wind who happens to be Hanuman's father..

Hanuman also prayed to Indra and Brahma and took their blessings..

All the Vanaras were so co-operative and prayed for Hanuman. Praying to the Sea, Vanaras said, if Hanuman, on his way to Lanka, gets tired, pls let him rest on the little mountain in the middle of the sea..

Lord Rama gave a ring to Hanuman, for Sita to believe that it is

Rama's messenger and not a demon..

The speaker later spoke on how Hanuman gets into the palace of Ravana.. Hanuman first thinks to enter through the main gate, but decides against it, as the entrance from the main gate should be done during weddings, invitations and other auspicious occasions and now he is one a very different mission so decides to enter from the back door. The speaker said, Valmiki, while describing Lanka, always said, the walls of the palace is studded with precious gems, diamonds. Bricks and doors are made of pure gold and so on.. The speaker said, when one describes the house in such a way, it means the people living inside are not good people..

it was 10 past 7pm by then and Swami knew it was bit long session for devotees who were sitting since 2pm. He sent a word with other man and the speaker, obligingly cut short his story which was beautifully said and well scripted as well...

Afte the talk, Swami immediately asked for Arathi and quick prasadams were given and the SUNDARA day ended at 7:15 quite long but we had long darshan of our Lord as well, so no complaints....

Thus ended another beautiful day and thought provoking and value added Ramayan Satsang..

With Humble Pranams at the Lotus feet of our beloved Lord

R.Satish Naik..27.06.2008

Ramayana Sapthaha - 22nd and 23rd

Come 22nd of June and the entire Kulwant hall appeared in a different light altogether. It looked as if the legendary "Rama Rajyam" had descended on earth. Sorry! Correction please - not just looked that way, Raama Rajyam has indeed descended! Sai Rama speaks a lot on Rama. More than anything else, as He describes the qualities of the Lord then and the way Rama conducted himself, one is always reminded of the daily activities of Swami Himself.

The stage had been occupied by three beautiful statues - Rama, Lakshmana and Sita. Hanuman was conspicuous by his absence. It came to be known that these were only like a standby The actual idols would be brought in a procession in the afternoon! In the afternoon, the Yajur Mandir was bustling with activity. A gaily decorated procession stood in readiness to escort the two Ramas from different Yugas!

Swami came out at about 4:30 pm and the procession started. The grandly decorated palanquin bearing the idols of the Lord was being carried by priests chanting hymns and mantras in praise and glory of the "perfect man" of the Treta age. The sanathana Dharma is so glorious and grand.. While in many places, God is reduced to a mere book, idol or picture, the Sanathana Dharma, uplifts everything - idols, pictures and everything to the level of God! The "GajaNade" as it is called is the traditional elephant walk that the priests simulated while carrying the idols. This meant that Rama seated atop the palanquin would have felt as though He is seated on an elephant! The movements were such and the priests undulated and gracefully twisted their bodies to exactly replicate that walk.

Swami in the meanwhile, sat just at the threshold of the Kulwant hall entrance from Yajur Mandir and said that He would prefer to wait for the idols to be taken in procession completely and then begin His darshan round. That was so sweet and understanding of Swami. Imagine the state of mind of people if both Swami and Rama came for darshan together! The two eyes are not enough to drink in the beauty and glory of both forms at the same time. What does one do when the tastiest of dishes and the best of desserts are placed simultaneously in front for the feast! So, as Swami sat sweetly allowing the palanquin to proceed. all the assembled devotees had a wonderful darshan of Rama, Lakshmana, Seeta and Hanuman. Towards the later part of the procession, the "HamsaNade" or the gait of the majestic swan was adopted and the palanquin proceeded and came to a halt at the stage.

Then sweet Swami began His darshan rounds. It was double delight. For those not yet spiritually evolved to see the Lord in the idols, here was the same Lord in flesh and blood. The thought that the Avatar was in our midst in flesh and blood, heightened by the presence of the idols atop the palanquin made hairs stand on their ends at the great good fortune all of us privileged to enjoy being contemporaries of Swami.

Swami glided through the hall in the chair and was all smiles towards the assembled devotees. He went through the gents side and then came to the students section of the hall. Blessing the birthday boys and collecting letters from many, Swami went on stage. There He lit the lamp that had been placed and so the "Srimad Ramayana Sudha Pravachana Sptaham" had been officially declared open! The Kalashasthapana and Shodashopachara pooja to the idols were performed and everyone awaited for the next part of the programme to begin looking at Swami. Swami sat listening to Vedic chants as He gently fondled and played with a yellow rose bud in His hand. He opened up the petals slowly. It was so symbolic of what He was doing to all the children seated in front of Him. The come to Him as buds and with His touch, He makes them bloom into fully blossomed flowers.

At 4.45, Bhagawan, seated onstage, asked for the programme to commence. A learned scholar, Sri.Vidwan Nidumamidi Srikanta Rao, spoke in Telugu for about 45 minutes, introducing the Ramayana Saptaham, stating that each day, one Kandam of the Ramayanam would be expounded by a scholar, till the last day, which would be dedicated to the Pattabhishekam or Coronation ceremony. The scholar then spoke about the first part of the Ramayanam, the Bala Kandam and the inner significance of many events narrated there.

As he went about the narration of the events of the planned coronation the intilal exploits of the young princes, Swami listen appreciatively with rapt attention. At the end of his talk, Swami looked at the bhjan group and signalled them to begin with a hint word, "Shlokam". And so began "Shree Raghavam", the aalap for the bhajan "Shree Raghunandana". Bhajans continued after that and everyone clapped and sang enthusaistically. All the bhajans were on Rama with special emphasis on the initial phases of Rama's life- to the events of Baala Kanda in particular! Prasadam was distributed while the bhajans went on. Bhagawan accepted Arati at 6.10 pm before returning to His residence.

23rd June.

The afternoon of 23rd too began on the same auspicious note as Swami came for darshan. Today however, Swami cut to the stage after the ladies side. Bhagawan arrived for evening darshan at 4 pm, and after sitting onstage for a few minutes, moved to the interview room. He emerged after half an hour to move around the stage area and the verandah, going back onstage and starting the proceedings at 5 pm.

Today's talk was on the Ayodhya kandam. The scholar speaking on it today was Sri Malla Pragada Sriman Narayana Moorthy from Guntur. He spoke very beautifully on the inner significance. Ayodhya means, "Where no one wins". this part of the Ramayana, expounded the scholar, was the portion where everyone- King Dasharatha, the queens, all the four brothers and everyone in the family loses. Yet all of them lose so that Dharma can win. And that was the significance of that Kanda. It also highlights the beautiful congruence between Sathya and Dharma. Like the two feet which are perfectly in sync and make movement possible, only when Sathya and Dharma are in sync is progress possible.

Swami was very moved at many instances during the narration. The speaker too spoke very powerfully on the Ayodhya Kanda and the entire audience listened in rapt attention. After the stirring hour long Telugu speech by Mallapragada Srimannarayana Murthy garu, bhajans commenced at 6 pm. Swami too sang the lead for some of the bhajans and that only catalysed a more devotional and enthusiastic singing by everyone assembled!

After bhajans for half an hour, Swami received Mangala Aarthi and left for Yajur Mandiram.

Two Wonderful days of the Ramayana Sapthaha.

Om Sai ram

Courtesy: KM - Wed Jun 25, 2008

Divine Materialisation - Video Topic List

Follow the below Link to see the Wonderful Video of Swami materialisation a Divine Ring

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rR4640tIJlw

The Divine Ring which Swami materialised was the Ring given by King Janaka to Sitadevi, This was also the Ring which was given by Sitadevi to Lord Ramachandra during the Wedding and this was the Divine Ring which was sent through Lord Anjaneya to Lanka for identification of Sita.

When everyone present had seen the Ring, Swami kept it in front of Him and continued His Discourse and the Ring miraculously vanished during the Course of the Divine Discourse.

Om Sai Ram

Courtesy: KM - Wed Jun 25, 2008

3rd day of RAMAYANA SAPTHAHA YAGNAM 

Om Sai Ram dear Sai Family, the third day marked the ARANYA KANDA episode.SWAMI blessed the vast gathering with His divine darshan at 4.30 pm. the blessed speaker for today was Mr. Ranga a learned scholar and a faculty of Sanskrit in NMKRV college for women in Bangalore,the same campus which was blessed by the Divine presence 17 years ago.

After taking blessings from Swami to the delight of non Telugu speakers he gave a talk in English. The topic for today covered the incidents that occurred during Lord Rama's stay in the forest with a mention of Surpanaka's incident, Sabari's hospitality, the golden deer episode, the kidnapping of Sita, Bird Jatayu's heroism and the way Rama conferred liberation and so on.

The speaker was of the opinion that Aranyakanda is the nucleus of Ramayana, as the crux of the problem, (kidnapping of Sita) happened in this part of Ramayana...as they say old habits don't die that soon, Mr. Ranga being a Prof in Sanskrit for many years, most of his talk was in sanskrit (the language spoken by Gods) and excellent interpretations in english..even though 45 mins is just not enough Mr. Ranga did a great job and sure enough he got a word of appreciation and a pat on his shoulder, from Lord Sai Rama Himself.

With humble pranams at the Lotus Feet of our beloved Lord..R.Satish Naik..25.06.2008

Prasanthi Update

Today evening Swami came by Chair at 4.30 P.M, Swami gave Darshan for about 15 Minutes and sat on the Verandah at listened to the Veda Chanting by Students. Then there was a wonderful speech on Aranyakanda in English. Bhajans started at around 6.10 PM and Mangala Aarthi at 6.45 PM.

Om Sai Ram

Tue Jun 24, 2008 - Courtesy KM

23rd June Darshan Update

Om Sairam dear Sai Family,

The second day of Ramayana Saptaham Yagnam was another interesting one.

Swami came at 4pm and blessed us with His divine darshan to the thousand seated in the hall.. After going into interview room for 30 minutes, Swami came on stage.. He called upon some students, spoke to them and accepted letters from them..

Today, unlike yesterday, there was an introduction about the speaker of this afternoon. Mr.Srimannarayana murthy from Guntur, a renowned scholar, great speaker and he had all the superlatives a person of his caliber has under his belt..

Taking blessings from Swami, He started his talk, the second kandam (chapter) and it was AYODHYA kandam.. Mr.Murthy said, Ayodhya means that which cannot be won and that is why you wont see any victory in this particular part of Ramayana. There is failure and just failure every where, starting from King Dasaratha who loses the game and eventually sents his beloved Son Rama to the forest.

Many people say it was a plot planned by Kaikeyi, to give the kingdom to her son Bharath, which in reality is not true.. It was all God's plan and the design of the Rama Avatar which had to undergo that stage other wise, we wouldn't have known Ravana, the holy sages wouldn't have performed all the Yagnas and Yagas in the forests, as the demons were at their best to disturb the sages..

Rama was not at all unhappy about the way he was being sent to the forest.. When the news came that Rama had to go, being a perfect son and an ideal son, he listened to his father without asking any question. Sita, who was just married then, asked Rama that she would follow him..

Rama, even though knew she has to be with Him, pretended to be reluctant... and Sita, the ideal wife she is, said, I wont follow you, but I will walk before you, cleaning the path, removing thorns and stones.. The speaker said, it is Sita who first reached Ravana, and Rama followed her, thus it was because of her that the world knew about Ravana..

Brother Lakshmana, who was very close to Rama, also followed Rama to the forest.

King Dasaratha, after sending Rama to forest, started chanting Rama's name and breathed his last breath..

After the king left His body, the need for a new king arised. the next best choice was Bharath. Mother Kaikeyi told Bharath, you have got the chance of becoming the king of Ayodhya and your long desire for the hot seat has become reality.. This erred Bharatha and he very politely told his mother, Mother, you have given me birth but you didnt understand your son too well.. NOT even in my wildest dreams I thought of becoming king in the place of my brother Rama.. After persuasion from likes of sage Vashista and others, Bharatha became the king bit reluctantly.

The speaker was of the feeling that Ayodhya kanda was designed in such a way that Rama, protects all the noble souls doing penance in the forest and also to set an example of PITHRU VAKYA PARIPALANA.. (listening to parents)...

After 45 minutes, the speaker thanked Swami for the golden opportunity he bestowed on him and for the great fortune..

Ater the talk, Swami asked for the bhajans to start and there was yet another round of Rama bhajans and Arathi was given around 6:25 thus ending the second day of Ramayana Saptaham Yagnam 28th June, will be the PATTABHISHEKAM, (coronation ceremony) of Lord Rama, holy water from all the holy rivers in the world is being brought and the abhishekam will be done with same water in the divine presence of our Sai Rama in the morning session which will mark the end of Ramayana Saptaham Yagnam....

with humble pranams at the lotus feet of our beloved Lord

R.Satish Naik..Jun 24, 2008

Prasanthi Update - The Ramayana Saptaham Yagnam

Yesterday Kulwanth hall was a sight to behold and was decorated in the most beautiful manner, Large and Divine idols of Lord Ramachandra, Sita devi, Lakshmana and Hanuman were placed in front of Yajur Mandiram. At exactly 4:15 PM Swami blessed everyone with His Divine Darshan and then our Lord Sai Rama blessed all the Divine idols which were carried admist Music and Veda Chanting into Kulwanth Hall.When the Divine Idols reached dias in Kulwanth Hall, Swami entered the Hall.

Swami blessed everyone present by taking a Full round and after a few minutes Swami signaled for the programme to start.

After about 10 minutes, Swami signaled for the Veda chanting to stop and the afternoon programme started. There was a wonderful speech on various aspects of the Ramayana by an elderly gentleman.

With the Blessings of Swami the pujas was done to the Divine Idols kept on the stage and after 20 to 25 minutes of the most electrifying Rama Bhajans, Swami asked for Managala Aarthi and evening programme ended at around 6.20 PM.

A day to remember for everyone.

Om Sai Ram


Mon Jun 23, 2008 Courtesy KM

22nd June Darshan Update

Om Sairam dear Sai Family,

Warm wishes from the holy land of Puttaparthi to all of you...As some politicians and non believers were denying the existence of Ramayana,or a character by name Rama and those who are brushing aside the existence of the bridge built by Lord Rama, with the help of Hanuman and Party to reach the then Lanka and present Sri Lanka, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the same Rama, of the Treta Age showed His compassion by conducting Ramayana Saptaham Yagnam a week long programme depicting various chapters of Ramayana, the holy epic, penned down by chosen sage Valmiki consisting more than 24000 poems and in seven sections, chapters (kandams as they call in telugu).. Each day, a noted speaker will tell one kandam and today being the first day, it was BALA KANDA, childhood days of Lord Rama, about His parents and the kind of brothers He had..

Each character of Ramayana has a great significance, and only today, those assembled in Kulwanth hall, had an idea as how significance life of Lord Rama is and the lesson one has to learn from this holy epic..

MORNING DARSHAN: This morning, it was very interesting.. All devotees were assembled including the preists who have come for Ramayana Saptaham Yagnam.. It was 9am and every one thought the bhajans should start any time.. Swami's car was still parked infront of the door and all eyes glued to the entrance.. Surprisingly the bhajans didnt start.. Every one guessing as whats going on..

It was 9:30.. 10 o clock and no trace of Swami and no bhajans.. and thus the morning session, which was quite strange one, ended without bhajans..

AFTERNOON DARSHAN: The hall was almost packed in the afternoon session.. Kulwanth hall was beautifully decorated with all the pillars lit up with small lights.. large idols of Lord Rama, Lakshmana, Sita and Hanuman were kept infront of Swami's house and as the clock showed 4:15 Swami blessed the vast gathering with His divine darshan, Swami first went to the idols and blessed them and few priests carried them in procession into the Kulwanth Hall amidst traditional music and veda chanting.. Our beloved Sai Rama seated in His wheel chair, watched the procession from the entrance of the hall, as the priest took a full round and when they reached the dais, Swami entered into the hall..

The atmosphere was totally electrifying and it was heaven on earth, to see Swami on this beautiful day, how compassionate He is and Iam sure there is a very strong reason as why He has arranged this programme, probably to ignite our minds which is otherwise too busy with other useless issues, for the so called modern youth, who have no idea who Lord Rama is and Ramayana is beyond our reach..

Swami took a full round blessing all of us, smiling, accepting letters.. As Swami reached the dais the priests kept the idols just before Ganesha on the dais... It was a treat to watch the idols beautifully decorated with fresh flowers, the fragrance making the atmosphere more divine..

After about 10 minutes, Swami signaled for the Veda chanting to stop and the afternoon programme started..

There came a elderly gentle man, he went upto Swami, after offering a rose, taking His blessings started the programme..

Quite surprisingly there were no one to introduce the audience as what the programme was or who is going to speak..

The speaker shared his thoughts on Ramayana, the significance of the name of Rama, His personality and His life.. the speech was in telugu even though non telugu speakers were just sitting with opened mouth, telugu speaking devotees were also in the similar way just immersed in the kind of narration the speaker did.. He was too good and many times, Swami looked at him appreciating his scholarly and indepth analysis of the holy epic.. He said, Rama's life was KARANA JANMA (birth for a reason), he was all praise for Sage Valmiki for writing Ramayana.. The speaker was of the feeling that, above all things Bhakthi (devotion) was very important.. It so happend once, there was an argument as who is great.. Some one said, Earth is great as it is holding Lord Vishnu, reclined on His bed with Adi Seshu (cobra) above His head, and some one said, no the snake is great as it is bearing Lord Vishnu on it. to this some one said, no Lord Shiva is great as He has the same snake as His ornament around His neck to this they said, no Kailasa Parvatham (mountain) is great as both Shiva and Parvathi live there.. Again it was told, Kailasa Mountain is not great as King Ravana lifted it with one hand so Ravana is great.. to this another arguement was, The arrow which killed Ravana is great and again it was said, it is not the arrow but Lord Rama who aimed the arrow was great. some one argued, Hanuman is greater than Rama as he has kept Rama in His heart thus concluding that Bhakthi (devotion is greater than anything)..

The speaker then did some numerology on Lord Rama's name and ended his 45 minutes talk thanking Swami for giving the opportunity to share his scholarly knowledge on Lord Rama..The audience gave a loud applauds including non telugu speaking devotees, as they felt the speaker had done lot of home work and was just excellent..

Swami then asked the priest to do puja to the idols kept on the stage and later Swami asked for bhajans to start. Being a Rama day, all the bhajans were Rama centric and every one of us, including our Sai Rama, were immersed in the Rama Sagara, as the students were at their best in bhajans.. About 15 Rama bhajans were sung, and around 6:15 pm Swami asked for Arathi and thus ended a beautiful day of my Prasanthi Diary... a day which was RAMA MAYAM.. and what a blessing.... as Swami sings this beautiful verse Chekkara kante teepi..... sweeter than sugar, more tastier than curd, that which gives the taste of Amrit is the name of Lord Rama.. truly, Swami made us taste the AMRIT, that AMRIT, which is unique and special... thank you dear Lord...

With humble pranams at the Lotus feet of our beloved Lord,

R.Satish Naik.. Sun Jun 22, 2008

Srimad Ramayana Sudha Pravachana Sapthaham started

Forwarded by ......

PARADIP SAI PARIWAR
www.paradip-sai-pariwar.blogspot.com

Sairam.

Following is a brief report from Parthi by one of our sai family members on today's afternoon programme.

Srimad ramayana sudha pravachana sapthaham started at around 4.15 PM at Puttaparthi. There was a procession and the idol of rama was brought to Sai Kulwant Hall. Swami came around 4.20 PM on the wheel chair. Programme started around 4.30 PM with a talk of one scholar who spoke about the bala kanda of Ramayan. The programme lasted for one hour. Everyday one kanda of the ramayana will be talked about by various scholars. At around 5.30 PM bhajan started. All Lord Rama's bhajans were sung. There was prasad distribution and swami left at around 6.15 PM.

Sairam.

saipapu - Sun Jun 22, 2008

Darshan Update (21 June 08)

Om sairam dear Sai family, the atmosphere is serene, the streets filling up, the Kulwanth hall in particular is to its maximum since last week..

This morning after bhajans surprising every one Swami came for His street darshan.. every one were running behind Swami's car. Swami went up to the petrol station and took a U turn back to ashram...among many boys who run behind His car, one boy from Nepal drew His attention. the boy who happens to be my darshan mate also, had applied for admission in music college but couldn't get admission for reasons best known to Swami.

Since then the boy is not leaving a single opportunity to request Swami to give admission in His temple of music.. this boy was running behind the car and Swami looking at this sweet boy signaled the boy to give the letter. it was right in the middle of the road that Swami accepted this MOST URGENT letter and it is second time that He took the boy's letter in a similar fashion. Swami wanted to tell something but in the mean time the crowd went crazy and the car moved on.. the boy started running behind the car and this time swami showed the letter to this boy probably saying don't worry I will do the needful.

AFTER NOON DARSHAN: this afternoon there were 2 ambulances parked in front of Swami's physical abode...initially i thought is every thing ok at His Abode?

Later after taking a keen look they turned out to be new ambulances kept for His blessings.. sure enough at around 4.45pm Swami blessed the ambulances and blessed all of us with the mobile chair darshan which are always blissful and matchless.. from tomorrow 22nd june to 28 june there will be week long programme on Ramayana and priests from Karnataka are already here in Parthi for the programme.. the news is that there will be talks by learned scholars on the topic and let us all pray to Swami to give us the essence of the holy epic....more news tomorrow.. with humble pranams at the lotus feet of our beloved Lord..

 Satish Naik..

Sat Jun 21, 2008

Prasanthi Update - Ramayana Saptaham Yagnam from Sunday

Starting from Sunday the 22nd' June, 2008, there is going to be a Saptaha Ramayana Parayanam Yagnam in Prasanthi Nilayam.

The Yagna Programme starts with procession of the Idols of Rama,Lakshmana, Sita and Anjaneya and Swami Presiding over the function. In Kulwanth Hall there will also be reading of the Ramayana Shlokas everyday evening and also Discourses on the various chapters of Ramayana by very Renowned scholars from Andhra and Karnataka. There could also be Speeches by Swami's Students and Divine Discourses by Swami.

The Duration of the Ramayana Yagnam is From 22nd to 28th of this month.

Om Sai Ram


Sat Jun 21, 2008 - Courtesy KM

RAMA KATHA SAPTHAHAM AT PUTTAPARTHI

Sat Jun 21, 2008 - Courtesy KM

108 Divine Names of Sri Rama

--- On Sat, 21/6/08, aravind balasubramanya wrote

UPDATE_21st June_Swami blesses ambulances

Date: Saturday, 21 June, 2008, 10:27 PM

Two Tata Winger vans stood parked majestically in front of Yajur Mandir today afternoon. Quick enquiries revealed that the Sri Sathya Sai general hospital would be blessed by Swami to receive two fully equipped state of art ambulances. And the two vans parked there were actually yet another gift of Love and Grace. Swami came out at about 4:45pm. As soon as He came out, the vans caught His attention. Swami asked about the vehicles and it was promptly said, "Swami they are Tata Winger vans to serve as the ambulances." He then went closer to have a better look. The oxygen cylinders and the stretchable and retractable bed looked elegant and professionally compact in the vans. Where Swami is concerned, the unexpected is something that has to be expected. Swami enquired about the drivers' place. The front door was opened and Swami was shown the drivers' seat. He scrutinised it carefully. He seemed fully satisfied with the new powered twins and blessed them for their "release". As He was moving towards the car, He saw coconuts on the ground. He told the people and security personnel there to break them as signs of auspiciousness in front of the van. As they were about to do so, Swami, with a sweet smile told them, "Wait! I will go for darshan. Then you break the coconuts."

That statement from Swami was so wonderful in some very specific aspects. For ages Swami has been breaking coconuts. One of His favourite styles is to hold a coconut each in a hand. using one as a breaking instrument, the other coconut is easily halved. On other occasions, Swami throws the coconut to the floor and as it shatters, devotees make a rush to collect the pieces as holy prasad. Nowadays, Swami often asks people near Him to enjoy the privileged honours of breaking the coconuts. Many times when this happens and the people throw the coconuts to the ground, some pieces fly towards the Lord. Swami is amused but thats not the case with many devotees. Though their Lord is the most powerful, He is also the sweetest and most delicate for them. The coconut breakers are rewarded with a smile from Swami and glares from the devotees! And so when Swami, who was just beside the vans, said, "Wait till I go for darshan and then break it," one could not help but suppress a smile.

Swami moved into the Kulwant hall on the chair itself and there was a surge from all sides. A week long parayanam of the Ramayanam is scheduled to begin tomorrow and devotees had already started filling in. Added to it, being the "weekend", the devotees numbers get "strengthened". Swami went about collecting letters and blessing everyone. His progress was slow and gentle. The bliss on the faces of the devotees showed that by His touch and smiles and Grace, their "progress" had been made rapid and huge! As Swami moves amongst the devotees in the chair, He is often covered by the lapping waves of the devotees with hearts flooded with devotion. But one can easily see Swami reflected so beautifully in the faces of these devotees. You want to know who Swami is, then just look at the devotees' faces. You will realize that He is an embodiment of Joy, Peace and Love! He collected letters from all and then moved into the students' zone. Blessing everyone, He slowly seemed to wade through them. He blessed all the birthday boys and then went into the interview room. Bhajans began at 5:30 pm and concluded at around 6:05pm.

Trust God with your everything

email: forwarded by Mukesh Patel & KM

Prasanthi Update - An Enthralling Wednesday Evening

Yesterday Evening Swami came by 4 PM. After giving some Interviews, Swami then went into the Bhajan hall and after speaking to a Few Students, at about 5:20 PM Swami asked the Music College boys to sing some Meera Bhajans. Swami sat in the Bhajan Hall itself and instead of the normal Bhajans, Swami sat for a Full half an hour listening to some Wonderful Meera Bhajans, It was a wonderful Enthralling evening as the Boys sang very well, excelling in each song. It was a wonderful evening session which made everyone happy and contended


Courtesy: KM - Thu Jun 19, 2008

Prasanthi Update

On Sunday Swami came for Darshan in His Chair by 10.00 A.M and Blessed the New Students of the Sri Sathya Sai Primary School. After Accepting Mangala Aarthi, Swami suddenly stopped near the Interview room and then again came on stage and after talking to a few students and the Hostel Warden, Swami went back to Yajur Mandiram at around 11.15 A.M.

In the evening Swami came out at around 4PM and as there was a Bhangra Dance Programme Swami all the Students with their costumes and after their wonderful half an hour programme Swami took group Photos with the delighted Students. Bhajans started at around 5.30 and after 30 Minutes of Melodious Bhajans, Swami left for Yajur Mandiram.

Om Sai Ram

Courtesy: KM 16.06.2008

Prasanthi Updates- Sunday Special

Sunday was a special day. The students were blessed by Bhagawan to put a program - Bhangra Dance. Swami spoke to the warden of the Hostel in the morning. Swami came very late in the morning around 10:15 am on Sunday. After taking a full round in His Chair, Swami went to the Bhajan hall, sat for just one bhajan and then took Mangala Aarathi.

Swami then got into the car, but just before the car was to move, Swami signaled that He wanted to come out. So the chair was brought out of the car and Swami, to the delight of all, came out and sat on the dais of Kulwant hall . Swami then took letters from some staff members and then spoke to the Warden of the hostel and also approved the program for the evening.

In the evening Swami came by 4 PM and then went out for a Drive and then spent time in Kulwant hall for the Bhangra Dance.

Courtesy: KM 16.06.2008

Prasanthi News

On Saturday Morning Bhajans went on for a long time till 10:30 A.M in the morning session. In the Evening Swami came by 4PM. The Home Minister and of Swami's old Devotees Shri.. Shivraj Patil came for Swami's Darshan.

Some people without any proper understanding think and feel that whenever a so called Important person comes to Swami's Sannidhi, Swami calls him first for an Interview, But Yesterday Swami in His own wonderful and Divine way showed that His Devotees who sit for long time to get a Glimpse of His Darshan are always most important to Him. In His Divinely Characteristic Way Swami made the Home Minister's Party wait while Swami went around the Portico, The Bhajan hall, The Staff area and then sat on the Stage for sometime and everyone had wonderful Divine Darshan for a long time. Swami also listened to the Student's Vedam Chanting and asked them specifically to chant the "Sri Suktam" and then finally went back to interview room. Then Swami called Shri.Shivraj Patil for an Interview.

Bhajans started at 5:30PM and the Mangala Aarthi was given at 6:10 PM. Everyone left happy that all could have wonderful Darshan of Swami for a long time.

Om Sai Ram

Courtesy KM - 15.06.2008

Prasanthi News

After coming from Brindavan Bhagawan has been giving Darshan everyday. In the past two days Swami has been coming after 4:30 pm in the evenings and has been taking a Full round of Kulwant Hall and giving wonderful Darshan to everyone present. Swami is also spending time with the boys in the Bhajan hall.

Although Swami has not been coming in the mornings for Darshan once or twice, but the Evening Darshans have been wonderfully good. Swami has also been taking letters from Students and Blessing them.

Om Sai Ram

Courtesy KM - 12.06.2008

Prasanthi Update - Our Divine Lord in Prasanthi Nilayam

Wonderful Parthi update sent by a Dear Sai Brother from Prasanthi Nilayam :

The academic year at Prasanthi Nilayam has a beginning and an end like any other academic year in any other place. But unlike any other place in any other part of the globe, the way it begins and ends is so divine and thus unique. The year ends with the Lord telling the students to return home and spread His love and joy to all there. The year begins with the students receiving Him with all their love and joy!

And so today, when the joyous news travelled very soon that Swami would be leaving Brindavan early in the morning and after a few scheduled halts on the way, would arrive to Parthi by 11 am, it turned out to be the actual opening day of the Prasanthi Nilayam campus of the Sri Sathya Sai University for what is the University without Sri Sathya Sai!

Entering the premises of the Sai Kulwant hall, one could observe a huge gathering and one wondered as to where on earth from did so many people come to Parthi from. A gala procession had been arranged from the Gopuram gate to welcome Swami. En route, Swami had made stops at Muddenahalli and Bagepalli to bless the people there. That it took more than 20-25 minutes for His car to navigate the last 4-5 kms from the super specialities hospital to the mandir gives an idea of how slow Swami travelled so that His devotees thirsting to see Him may fulfill their desire.

As the car reached the Gopuram gate, so many things began in a synchronised manner. The welcome song went on air in through the speakers beginning with an enthusiastic, "Jai Bolo Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba Ji Ki Jai." A procession of orange clad students began with the high pitched chanting of the Vedas. There were a set of students doing vigorous bhangra dance on both sides of the car. The 8th and 9th class students held and waved balloons and flags to signal the colour and gaiety of the occasion. Handfuls of flower petals were devotionally offered on to the Mercedes Benz that had the privileged fortune of being the vehicle of choice for the Lord.

Swami took a complete darshan round and as throngs of thrilled devotees "rose to the occasion", Swami flashed beautiful smiles to all around. He went to the portico near the interview room and there asked for the Aarthi to be done. Before that roses were offered and blessings sought. A devotional fervour replaced the gay atmosphere as the Aarthi began.

As Swami moved towards the ladies side, the headmistress of the primary school, performed a traditional Aarthi and "warded off the evil eye" with a coconut! Swami smiled through the ritual and the entered the Yajur Mandir. He retired at about 12:00.

In the evening, Swami arrived to the Vedic chantings at about 5:20 pm. Much to everyone's delight, He had decided to come out in the chair. So the summer showers which began in the month of April and continued in full flow through the stay at Brindavan had been extended into the fresh academic year as well! Swami was in those, "I will accept everyone's letter" moods. With a gentle smile he slowly moved through the ladies side. It was reminiscent of the times when Swami would come walking slowly down the path.

As He moved along the path, He slowly alternated His attention and "eye-span" to the left for a while and then to the right as everyone vied and pined for His attention. There was a lot of excitement as He moved through the students. The freshers were being exposed for the first time to an introductory taste of what it means being His students. Swami completed a round through the gents side and then as He moved in the front through the students, He collected letters and blessed the birthday boys. The bhajans began at 5:30 pm .

When there is a lot of joy and fervour waiting to burst forth, the bhajans act as a wonderful release! And adding to the existing enthusiasm, Swami came straight out to the front of the stage and sat there. The difference in excitement levels when one can see Swami and when one cannot could be easily made out from the tempo of the clapping that went on inside the bhajan hall in sharp contrast to the doubled speed one that went on in the Kulwant hall! Swami made a face indicated that the beats were going awry! He also clapped and set the beat so that the exuberance at seeing Him doesn't disrupt the rhythm of the bhajans. As He sat outside for 4 bhajans, He called a student and took his letter. The joy of that student knew no bounds and he returned to place, lighter in the hand and in the heart too!

Swami then went into the bhajan hall for the rest of the bhajans.

It was 6:10pm almost when He received Aarthi and retired for the day.

Om Sai Ram

Courtesy KM - 09.06.2008

Prasanthi Update - Bhagawan's Arrival

The Wonderful Summer Programme in Brindavan drew to a Close when our Dear Lord left Trayee Brindavan at 7.30 A.M today. On the way to Prasanthi Nilayam Swami stopped at the Sathya Sai High School at Muddenahalli at around 9.50 A.M and watched a Wonderful Drama by the students of the School.

There was great happiness all around in Prasanthi Nilayam as News started coming in that Bhagawan has started for Parthi. Suddenly Parthi was transformed with Rangolis and Mango Thoranams everywhere.

Swami's Car entered Prasanthi Nilayam at around 11.15 A.M with Devotees aligning themselves on both sides of the road craning their necks to have a Glimpse of Swami. Swami's Car entered Prasanthi Nilayam from the Gopuaram Gate. Swami was greeted with Veda Chanting and a wonderful Swagatham Song. Swami took Mangala Aarthi and retired to Yajur Mandiram at around 11.35 P.M

Om Sai Ram

Courtesy KM - 08.06.2008

Breaking News 08.06.2008 - Swami will be in Parthi at around 10.45 A.M

Swami left Brindavan at around 7.30 A.M and will be in Prasanthi Nilayam at around 10.45 P.M

Om Sai Ram

Courtesy KM - 08.06.2008

BRINDAVAN NEWS

Sairam

June 7-Darshan update.

I reached whitefield around 7.30 am and around 8.00 am the bhajan hall was full and got seated some where in the mid of hall. . Bhajan's started by 9.30 am and every one was anxiously waiting for swami to arrive. 10.00 am, 10.15 am 10.30 am and till 10.45 am swami didn't come. Swami came around 10.55 am and was present for 10 mts and then he asked to start aarthi.

Few people told that swami comes down to the hall also, however this didn't happen and i had a darshan of swami from long distance. I was bit worried that I couldn't have a close darshan of swami. I started back from Whitefield ashram to my office.

My office is near to Sathiya Sai Hospital. When I went for lunch around 1.00 PM, there was a good co-incidence and i happened to see what i wanted to see..... i.e. close darshan of swami in car when he was coming out of Sathiya Sai Hospital.

Thanks swami for your darshan.

Also few people are telling that swami may depart from bangalore tomorrow.... but no one can predict swami's schedule...

Jai sairam

Sridhar, Bangalore

Courtesy: Saibabanews 07.06.2008

Brindavan Update

There is a very strong news coming from Brindavan that Swami will most probably be Returning to Prasanthi Nilayam tommorow. Will send updates as things unfold.

Om Sai Ram

Courtesy: KM 07.06.2008

Brindavan Update

Sent by a Dear Sai Brother from Brindavan :

For the past few days Swami has been giving Wonderful Darshan both in the morning and in the evening. Though Swami has not come down from the stage and moving around, Swami has been spending quite some time listening to bhajans both in the morning and evening.

On the evening of the 30th, Swami gave an Interview to the Dynamic Chief Minister of Gujarat Shri. Narendra Modi along with his family. Swami also Blessed the various Teachers of the Prasanthi Nilayam of the University and the High School as many of them are returning back to Prasanthi Nilayam for yet another academic year.

The weather in Brindavan is wonderfully cool and raining almost everyday. There was is talk though of Swami returning to Prasanthi Nilayam immediately. Of Course not a soul can ever predict Swami's Divine Programme but it seems that Swami is going to stay in Brindavan for some more days. Will keep everyone updated.


Om Sai Ram

Courtesy: KM - 01.06.2008