PRASANTHI NEWS - NOVEMBER 2007
Prasanthi Update
For the Past Few days Swami's Darshan schedule has changed a lot. After the
Wonderful Birthday celebrations, Swami has either not come out for Darshan
or has come very late in the Mornings. In the Evenings Swami has come out
for Darshan only at around 5.00 P.M or after the Bhajans have started.
In the Last 3 to 4 days, Swami has been giving interviews to a lot of
Devotees and to many groups of people. Even during the middle of the Bhajans
Swami has been calling people inside and speaking to them. This has resulted
in Bhajans being continued for almost one hour or more. Mostly Swami has
been taking Mangala Aarathi after 6.00 P.M
Om Sai Ram
Posted by KM on 29.11.2007
Some incidents touch our heart. But some of
them create impressions, lasting a lifetime.
Hridayavaani was one such festival that
moved many. I’ve been writing about our
convocation drama in my previous posts.
These 25 days of hard work, prayer, spirit
of brotherhood, love and faith in our Swami
has made us so much stronger today.
We were ready with recording of dialogues &
sets by the 15th, and thus began practicing
in the Poornachandra auditorium (PC), the
venue of our drama, from 17th
itself. Our teacher incharge had shown Swami
a list of names for the title of drama and
Swami chose “Hridayavaani”. The name truly
resembled the spirit and essence of the
story, which was based on Swami’s teachings
and projects.
On 21st , Swami agreed to see our
practice in PC, this time with the dress
rehearsal. We were eagerly waiting for Him
in the backstage from where He would enter
the auditorium. The programme in mandir got
over pretty late as Swami was busy
distributing sarees to the VIPs . It was 11
am when He came. We were greeted with a
beautiful darshan as Swami blessed us all,
though we could see that he was apparently
tired. He stepped down the stage and sat in
His usual place, accompanied by a few
elders. The drama went well and as each
scene progressed, our confidence grew
stronger. Swami was very happy with our
rehearsal. While He returned, He remarked to
an actor “ Black pant”. He was unhappy with
the boy’s costume. So the boy had to find an
alternative pair for the next day.
22nd Diary:
The mood is upbeat, all of us are eagerly
awaiting the most crucial moment of our
lives, the chance to act in front of our
Lord, that too on the day of our
convocation. This day is special for every
student, a matter of pride and great
blessing, of being recognized as His
students.
The convocation programme is scheduled to
begin at 3 pm. The Vice Chancellor,
professors and council members as well as
Institute band and vedam groups are ready
for the procession. The drama boys have to
stay back in PC for make up as the drama
would start immediately after convocation.
So we have to be content with the darshan of
our Lord as He comes out of His residence.
Lo and behold! Swami comes out in a
sparkling white robe, looks at everyone and
indicates with His hand “begin the
procession”. We are all very excited as
Swami has hardly come for convocation in
white.
Our make up is over and we are waiting for
Swami’s arrival to PC. The convocation
programme in Kulwant hall has been brief ,
giving Swami plenty of time to speak. Swami
spoke for one and half hours. At 5.30 pm.,
He returns back.
Swami enters the backstage with an
enchanting smile, enough to boost our
confidence for the evening. He identifies
some of the actors, blesses us and goes
outside to join the audience. Except for
this moment, the backstage is a scene of
chaos, all of us trying to make sure things
are in place.
The drama begins at 6 pm. Throughout the
play, Swami is in rapt attention, and
becomes emotional in certain scenes. Mind
you, no one else can give so much attention
after having watched a full practice twice
before. But that’s our Mother, always ready
to cheer us up. I’m reminded of what a
teacher told us after the first practice
that Swami saw 10 days ago. He said “Swami
listens to each word and gives it due
importance. That is why He feels so touched
by the scenes.”
After the drama , He comes on stage and
blesses us all with photographs. He looks at
the same actor who wore black pant yesterday
“ your dress is good today. Very happy.”
As He’s taking aarati and returning back, we
form a path (rather narrow the path) and
wish Him in unison “Swami, Happy Birthday”
He looks at us amused, “Oh birthday? But I
am always happy”
Indeed, everyday is His birthday, a
celebration of love that fills the emptiness
within our barren hearts and transforms us
each day, from a bud to a blooming rose,
ready to spread its fragrance to others
around. It is the Hridayavaani of every
heart. We bow in gratitude to this eternal
fragrance of love.
Sai ram
A Simple but a Divine Birthday to
remember forever and ever
The Birthday Celebrations of Bhagawan was very different this year. In
the Morning thousands and thousands had assembled in Kulwant Hall and outside on
the roads, not minding the biting cold and all the hardship.
As devotees were wondering as why the Lord has not appeared yet, even after 9am,
there were some claps indicating that there was some activity in Yajur Mandir.
To the relief of all, Swami came out around 9:30 am, and to bless all with His
Divine Darshan, He chose to give His Divine Birthday Darshan in His chair,
instead of the Car. Vedam chanting, Darshan Music, Institute Brass band, Girls
Band, panchavaadyam, all these were going on simultaneously which transformed
the whole Atmosphere into a most Sensational Spiritually Vibrant one as Bhagawan
was going around in Kulwant hall giving Darshan.
This birthday was a very very special for one very important ceremony. Swami was
annointed with oil on his head by elderly couples like Mr & Mrs Bhagavathi, Mr &
Mrs. Showrey, Mr & Mrs Indulal Shah. This was unique as it has never held in the
recent years. Prof Anil Kumar announced that after many many years everyone
present are privileged to witness this most Wonderful Ceremony .
While this ceremony was going on, Carnatic Music by Malladi brothers and also
Vedam chanting reverberated around Kulwanth Hall.
Swami did not give any Divine Discourse,
nor were there were any speeches. Swami left for Yajur Mandiram at around 11 A.M
In the Evening once again devotees had to wait patiently till 5:30 pm. Swami
once again came in the chair, went around Kulwanth Hall blessing everybody with
His Divine Darshan. Then there was a Very Wonderful Carnatic music program
followed by songs by Noted Singer Hariharan. In between Swami gave sarees to
some very elderly ladies and took group photos with them. The Music program went
on till 8pm.
Must add that This Year The birthday celebrations were totally and entirely
Different from all other Previous Birthday Functions in the sense that there
were No Discourses by Swami, No Speeches by any person and no Programmes except
for the Musical Programme. Apart from the Most Wonderful Oil Annoiting Ceremony
to Bhagawan which was a Divine Sight to Behold for every single person in
Kulwanth Hall and Outside, Everyone had the Most Wonderful Divine Darshan of the
Lord. Swami gave wonderful Darshan to everyone Present which made every Single
person so very very happy.
A Totally Different Birthday Celebration but one which made everyone so very
happy at the end. Swami also at the end came in His Usual Radiant Orange Robe
and not in the Yellow Robe as everyone were expecting.
A Most Wonderful and Divine Birthday for everyone.
Om Sai Ram
Posted by KM on 24.11.2007
Prasanthi Update
Today morning on this most Divine Day, Swami came into Sai Kulwant Hall
accompanied by the usual Chanting of Vedas by students and by Swami's Wonderful
Little elephant - Sathya Gheetha, They were also accompanied by the Marching
bands from the SSIHL Campuses.
Swami gave a Wonderful Birthday Darshan to all the Devotees who had filled every
Nook and Corner of Sai Kulwanth Hall which was looking at its most Radiant and
Resplendent. Then Swami blessed and also cut some cakes a Swami blessed and cut
few cakes brought by the Staff and the Students.
The Morning Darshan ended with Bhajans and After The Mangala Aaarthi, Swami left
for Yajur Mandiram. Must also add that there is huge rush of Devotees much much
more than anyone had ever anticipated.
Om Sai Ram
Posted by KM 23-11-2007
Swami's 82nd Birthday Celebrations
in Parthi (morning sesion)
Om Sri Sairam to dearest Sai Family,
Wishing a very happy birthday to
Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba,the proud son of this holy Soil, Puttaparthi. The
82nd birthday of the body was celebrated with utmost devotion and love. The
streets of Puttaparthi were beautifully decorated, huge banners with nice
pictures of Swami with His quotes were hung in the main streets of Puttaparthi.
The police department took stringent measures to curb any un wanted anti social
elements to disturb the holy festival. The crowd was big enough but still not as
expected. Even the little crowd were enough to create lot of commotion and
anxiety. There were large number of crowds already lined above the hill top
before the gates of Prasanthi Nilayam could be opened and for devotees staying
outside the ashram, were asked to queue up along the foot path gents towards the
Sai Towers end and ladies towards the Bus station end.
The gents lines went as far as the Gopuram gate and many people were seen lining
up from as early as 2am. The Prasanthi Nilayam gate opened sharp at 4am and it
was a different scene as soon as one entered the premises. The police were all
over the place and all the devotees were asked not to carry bags and
surprisingly even foot wear.
The Kulwanth hall was already half booked for the students and the VIPs. By
4:30am the hall had its maximum capacity. In spite of the rush nagarsankeertan
went on as usual. By then it was 6:30 am and all eyes were glued at our Swami’s
residence waiting for His arrival. Keeping us guessing, Will He come in car,
Mobile Throne, open car and etc. it was 7:30 am and every body thought He should
be coming out in any second from now on. At least 300 students, comprising of 2
different kinds of bands, veda chanting were present in front of His house and
another 40 or so VIPs.
It was 8am no trace of Swami and the
devotees waiting for so long started to get bit nervous and uneasy.. 8:30 no
Swami.. Now the whole Kulwanth hall was standing. Some one in the crowd would
clap and few others joined and the every one were on their feet again thinking
Swami had come.
It was 8:50 and many started to feel that Swami may not come today. We all know
His uncertainty and He many times has said, you should love my uncertainty…
In Another 5 minutes some movement was
seen near His abode,.. suddenly the music started and there He comes.. It took
almost 10 minutes for Swami to enter the hall as all the students lead the
darshan. Surprising every one, and just as He said, love my uncertainty, some
thing very certain on this day (birthday) was not seen today.. and that was the
colour of His robe. I don’t think He never gave darshan without His white robe
morning of birthday but today morning Swami came with His usual orange robe,
dazzling in its radiance.. smiling at every one.. The 82 years YOUNG body had
the charm of a 1 year old child. Had the look of a sweet sixteen year old child,
had the smile of a 25 year old mother and above all the energy of LORD OF THE
LORDS.. There He comes blessing every one, smiling, speaking with His eyes
accepting birthday wishes from thousands present in His immediate physical
presence and millions who already send their virtual HAPPY BIRTHDAY greetings …
Swami always says, I am always happy and does He have any need to celebrate His
birthday.. its just a kind gesture to the man kind, to make us happy, to dip all
of us in the ocean of happiness, for the modern Man who has miles away from
smile…. the God who has no birth or end, has come out to celebrate the festival
of His descent to earth.. How compassionate you are dear Lord!!…
Swami then went to the verandah and probably cut all the birthday cakes
specially made with utmost care and love by His beloved ones. He again took a
short round in front of the dais and got back to the dais, as devotees rose on
their feet, some saying sairam, some saying happy birthday Swami, some raising
their hands above their head saluting the Lord of the Lords. Unlike last year,
there were no monitors kept in the hall which would have been a better idea.
It was 9:30 am by then, one group of musicians were seated on the dais and there
started the music programme. No announcements were made as who was singing but
the singers rendered beautiful songs in telugu, wishing Swami a very happy
birthday and some popular numbers from Saint Tyagaraja’s renderings..
It was almost 10:20am by then and Swami called Prof.Anil kumar and after a brief
discussion, always alert and joyfull Anil Kumar announced today’s programme. A
ceremony which was just a boon for every one of us.. a rare scene which was a
ritual in the late 60s . If any one
We might have attended many birthdays but this birthday is unique very special.
It s all the results of past lives. This event happened in the 60s came into
life again in 2007…during the coronation of Rama, all saints came and blessed
Rama and a special ceremony where in one applies oil on head and take blessigs
from the divine took place... Many of us would have seen old pictures of Mother
Eswaramma applying oil on Swami’s head.. Today the same ritual was supposed to
be conducted and the chosen devotees for this divine boon were Mrs &
Mr.R.J.Ratnakar (son of Late Janaki Ramayya garu, the chosen brother of Swami),
Mrs& Mr.Justice Bhagwathi, Mrs & Mr.Indulal Shah, Mrs.& Mr. Showrie, (here Swami
called Prof. Anil Kumar and said something and Prof.Anil Kumar announced that
Mr.Showrie is only 99 years old), 85 years old Mrs& Mr. Marga bandu performed
the ritual amidst veda chantings and timely commentary in English and telugu by
Prof.Anil Kumar.
Thus ended a memorable and rare ritual. Prasadam was distributed and as the
clock struck 11, Swami asked for Arathi and Swami left to His abode in the
mobile throne with all the students and also the little elephant Sathya Geetha
followed Swami to His abode…
The 82 nd birthday forenoon celebrations thus ended with a happy note even
though the most famous Birthday discourse was not delivered but the day is not
over yet.. may be in the afternoon we will Hear the nectarine voice again…
Thank you Swami for a wonderful day.. Your birthday always reminds and cautions
us that the time is getting closer and closer for us to ignite the divine in us
and see YOU in us. Every birthday is a caution and a countdown for us to know
your mission and follow your path of love and just love…
Swami help us to be your darling children, the children whom you will be proud
of. Help us to be the good children who listened to you and practiced your
teachings..
Love you Swami.. Love you..
With humble pranams to our Mother Sai,
R.Satish Naik..
23.11.2007
22nd november 2007 afternoon
darshan
Om sairam dearest Sai Family,
Swami made His birthday eve a very
special one and just have to wait and see how it will be like on His birthday…
This afternoon the 26th Convocation of Sri Sathya University was scheduled and
thorough arrangements were made for the same. The hall which seemed like heaven
yesterday looked more heavenly today with all the additional floral decorations.
The stage was well set for the Chancellor of the University, Sri Sathya Sai Baba
with a big chair in the center of the dais and two similar ones one for the Vice
Chancellor and one for the Chief guest of today’s programme justice Bhagwathi
former chief justice of Supreme Court of India and a very noble devotee of
Swami..
About 20 other chairs were kept for
Professors from various faculties. The token line devotees were let in at 1:30
and the hall understandably was reserved and the first line was made to sit
parallel to the first gate almost in the middle of the hall. The crowd, compared
to last year is still less in number, and more police are seen. After the hall
was full and as the clock struck 3:15pm, The band boys started their music and
the Veda Chanting begun signaling the arrival of Lord of the Lords, Bhagwan Sri
Sathya Sai Baba, our most compassionate Lord. The band boys came in first and
then it was our turn to open our mouth in surprise, to see our Lord in His
mobile Throne, and I said surprising because He was clad in His white robe, a
rare scene during the Convocations. The devotees clapped in happiness and Swami
had His world’s beautiful smile on His face..
Swami directly went on the dais after giving darshan in the ladies’ side.
Following Swami were all the professors working in Swami’s various campuses.
Swami preferred to sit in His mobile throne. Prof. Gokak, the present vice
chancellor of Sri Sathya Sai University went to Swami and with His due
permission, Prof. Gokak asked the Chancellor to declare the convocation open..
Swami very kindly rose from His chair and took the traditional yellow mike and
said, “I declare the convocation open” amidst loud cheers from the audience.
Later Prof. Gokak gave a eye opening talk which threw light on the degrading
present day education.. Universities which are supposed to be the centers of
learning have lost the creativity because of politics. Teachers are brought into
profession not by talent but by influence and this is hampering the over all
educational development. In the midst of all Sri Sathya Sai university stands
out like an oasis. The students here are not just aspirants but also who have
the knowledge of ultimate reality ..and to whom the end of education is
character.. They are fortunate to have the Satguru as their chancellor who is
the divine architect of this universe.
U should be ideals to the whole world.
Students are taught the five basic values of peace, love, non violence, truth
shanthi and righteousness.
After 15 minutes of fantastic talk, Prof. Gokak ended with a hope to hear from
the Chancellor which every one of us were also eagerly awaiting…
Excerpts from the discourse
Wasting no time, Swami, slowly rose from
His throne, after adjusting the mike, amidst pin drop silence came the nectarine
voice,
Priyamaina Vidyartulara….Dearest
Students,
Right from rising from bed and till you
go back to sleep you are running after money.. Why are you wasting like that?
Embodiments of Love, u are not doing what we are supposed to and we get involved
in un necessary activities and are wasting your time and also this life. Time is
very important and auspicious. You are students, you are the torchbearers of the
world. Every man has desires but to control the desire is the primary duty of
man.
YOU ARE MY EVERYTHING:
Desires go and repeat one after other. U
should have an end to your desires and control them. Students you should be
ideal to the society. I have brought you under my fold so that you will be
ideal. Out side world, its all money, money.. but our students are not charged
even a penny (naya paisa). We don’t expect any profit in the field of education,
water, and hospital. We give to our students. If there is any poor student, we
help them in every way. If you recognize the basic fact of our university then
you will be a ideal students. STUDENTS ARE MY CHILDREN. Vidya is your property.
Education is not the worldly education. There are so many people living without
any education. You all have MA, MBA and so on degrees and if you behave like
them then of what use is this education.
TRUTH IS CHANGELESS AND FORMLESS:
Sathya, Dhrama, Shanti,Prema and Ahimsa
are the basic principles of life. Love is the primordial principal. Truth is
very important. The whole creation has originated from truth and will merge in
Truth. This is the true and unsullied truth. In this creation right from an ant
to an elephant has been created by God. Nothing will happen without His will .
Even the little ants are also created by God. That is why Tyagaraja said, O Rama,
you are the creator, you are in ant and also in elephant. When ant bites you u
will kill it. IF Brahma comes in front of you, you salute Him. Though the forms
may be different but both are one.
BODY IS NOT PERMANENT:
Everyone desires for self. For me.. For
me.. you say this is my mind, my body but who is this MY? My body? To day and
tomorrow it will be yours. Day after tomorrow where is your body. You take care
of this, with all love and attachment but this body is not yours. This is a
God’s gift. Everything is God’s gift. We are forgetting the fundamental
principle that is why we are facing all the problems. Where is God. God is with
you, in you, around you and behind you . YOU ARE GOD. You should have firm
faith. God will never leave you. God is present in all of you. There are so many
forms and names but the Atma is one and the same.
God is one. jewels are many but gold is one. Take every effort to know the
fundamental principle.
SAI IS LOVED BY EVERYONE:
A man with dual mind is half blind.
There fore never have dual mind. All the education is not for you it’s for your
fellow beings for the living beings. You should help all and only then you will
find happiness.. Even if you come across your enemy say hello. Never hate any
body. Today NO ONE HAS ANY HATRED OR ILL FEELING AGAINST ME. Is there any one
who don’t like Swami. I LOVE ALL. I have no hatred and I don’t harm any body.
Since there is one ness in my Self, I am able to attract millions and millions
of people. The WHOLE WORLD LOVES ME. You may think because of lack of trust on
Swami, I may not like some people.. but its just your BRAMA (Imagination). I
HAVE NO ILL FEELING TOWARDS ANY BODY..
DEVELOP LOVE AND FAITH:
My play, song, My path is all for you
its all for you. the writers may be many but all the words are same. Prema and
Faith are very important and only then you will full fill your desire. Love and
Faith are very essential. All the rest appear in between. Don’t bother about
them. You strengthen Faith and Love. Love is God. Live in Love. Truth is God. It
will never change.
GOD IS IN YOU:
Never consider that God is separate. God
is not alone as entity. He is present every where. Only when you understand the
principle of one ness you will be happy. Students you read many books. The
letters in the books are same. Only 26 letters are enough to write volumes and
volumes of books. For God there is nothing like BAD. You are not understanding
what Good is. you consider that as Bad. Its just due to the difference of time.
God is present in all. There is no place where there is no God. No one has the
right to say that God doesn’t exist in so and so place . there is only one thing
and that is God.
Religions are many path is one. Creatures are many but the indweller is one. All
these are just bodies. There is only one God among all of you. U should consider
every one as divine. Give up body attachment. God is one without the second. U
should install this truth.
BE HAPPY, YOUR HAPPINESS IS MY FOOD:
U think how is Swami always happy.. I am ALWAYS HAPPY AND I AM ALWAYS SMILING.
Because I consider every one as one. Your happiness is MY FOOD. So you should
have that happiness. The other day students did a play. I was very happy after
seeing that. We say I and WE. Where did this WE come.. this came from I. So I is
only one. U have to cut this I (EGO) and make it cross. Remain as one.
You should consider yourself as brothers and sisters. There is nothing beyond
this. Even those brothers and sisters are not TWO both are one. If you
investigate clearly you will know all is one. Don’t think there is plurality in
this world. There is only one and that is GOD.
DEVELOP LOVE TOWARDS GOD:
Embodiments of love students you should
be ideal. Only when you are ideal and the rest of the people will follow. Don’t
have the feelings like MY, He She. All are one and be alike to every one. This
you have to remind yourself. Then only you are students. Or else you can call
your self just a Literate. What is Education, its Vidya, Vidya is the one that
teaches the one ness. That is life.
Embodiments of love, increase your love towards God and not to worldly
possessions. There is only one and that is truth. All are one. Never have
differences what so ever. Share your love with others. If you want the life to
be eternal understand this ONE NESS. When there is only one there is no chance
for rivalry, enmity.
MY MIND IS ALWAYS STEADY:
At this juncture Swami sat on His throne
and continued His divine discourse There is nothing wrong with this Body.. Its
perfect. Not only the body even my mind is perfect. It never gets diverted. Many
ask don’t you have any sad ness. I don’t know what is sad ness. It never came
near Me. You also don’t get sad ness close to you other wise it will bring more
sadness. Never get sad ness in your mind because it will never get out once it
gets in.
Many worry unnecessarily . Students are
afraid of exams. Write what you know. Why should you worry. U don’t need to fear
for any thing in life.
GET GOOD NAME TO YOUR PARENTS:
God has no form or colour. Many say God
is blue in colour. If God is to be blue in complexion, then He should be put in
an exhibition. God has no form or name. U may change but the self, Atma will
never change.
Get a name that you are Good boys. Get a
good name to your parents and to your society. Society can progress only by you.
Where ever our students go, they always get good name. Every one says that they
work well and very disciplined. See that you maintain the good name you have. I
wont expect ANYTHING MORE THAN THIS FROM YOU. I will give what ever you want. I
have given My self to you. Never fight with each other, never abuse. Be like
brothers and sisters. Only when you have this equanimity you will be happy. What
for is this education when we all are going to die. All of you should continue
to be good boys. Make your parents to be happy.
When YOU CANT MAKE YOUR PARENTS HAPPY, HOW DO YOU THINK YOU CAN MAKE ME HAPPY. I
will be very happy when you make them happy, when you serve them.
MY STUDENTS ARE LOVED BY EVERYONE:
People say students of Sathya Sai are
very good. Even in Delhi, the government wants only Sathya Sai University
students. No college or university is getting such a good name and respect.
Our university was started long back. On the second year of its inception, one
Ms. Madhuri Shah came from Delhi. She looked at the school and said this should
be made an university. All started abusing her. Its only one year and how can it
become an university. In those days, Bhagwantham was translating the discourse.
Even he said, its impossible. I said, very loudly, Its POSSIBLE. Second year an
expert committee visited and said this is the best institution. Then we got the
status of university.
Our children are virtuous and noble.
Even in America, our College students have a good name. There are 150 students
in America. The other day, they were here with their families. They said, Swami
we don’t want to go back. We don’t want to leave our Home.
Swami then asked for Mr. Goldstein, he came running to the dais.. Referring him
Swami continued, he has been with organization for the last 20 years.
Mr. Goldstein said, the students are doing a fantastic job in many countries.
They are spreading Swami’s love and His message in almost 200 countries and
inspired the devotees to rise and realize the divinity. You students are very
fortunate to be here in Swami’s college
Rather emotionally Mr. Goldstein
concluded his short talk saying” For me to live another life, if at all I had to
come back again to this world, I pray to Swami to let me come and be a student
in His university”. So saying Goldstein went to Swami and don’t know if Swami
said, you won’t be coming back again or if He said OK..but Mr. Goldstein seemed
very happy.
Later Prof.Gokak asked all the audience to join to sing the national anthem.
After that Swami continued His talk
referring to today’s chief guest, former chief justice of Supreme Court of India
Mr.Bhagwathi.. Swami said how became the supreme court chief justice and said
“He has never forgotten Me though out his life”.
Justice Bhagwathi then gave a short talk “I have no words .. Swami was so kind
and affectionate and I can never forget His love in my life time... I request
Swami to be with me and guide me like He had been doing all these years… I want
to serve Him not only in this life but also in the lives to come…
Later Arathi was given to Swami who was very beautifully clad in a white robe…
Thus ended a memorable 26th Convocation of Sri Sathya Sai University….
From the Heaven on Earth; Puttaparthi
R.Satish Naik..
Puttaparthi
23.11.2007
"I am Omnipresent among each and everyone of You -
From Swami's 26th Convocation Discourse Yesterday
The 26th Convocation of the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning was held
in Sai Kulwant hall yesterday. The function started around 3:30 P.M. Swami came
in His Wonderful White robe. There was no Chief Guest for the Convocation this
year. Shri.Justice Bhagavathi was sitting next to swami, so he was more or less
the chief guest. After the initial remarks by the Vice Chancellor wherein he
outlined wonderfully about the Institute Progress and its Future Plans, the Gold
medals were given to outstanding students by Bhagawan. Swami was sitting and
blessing the candidates. The all round Gold medal was given to Mr. Om Prasad, a
student of M.Tech (optics). He is also a very good singer and one of the topper
in the class. He has god grades in academics in both B.Sc and M.Sc. There were
two Ph.Ds awarded this year. Dr.ASK Prabhakar and Dr. R Sai Sathish, in
mathematics and chemistry respectively.
Swami gave a beautiful discourse and spoke for almost one hour. Swami said "
" Students should never waste their Valuable time which cannot be regained.
Every Student should have a Ceiling on their Desires and should try to Divert
their Energies in acquiring Knowledge. It is the Duty of each and every Student
to spread what they Learn and share the knowledge they acquire with everyone.
The Four Pillars of Life are Truth,
Righteousness, Peace, Non Violence and Love. Students should yearn for
Contentment of their Self, Material Comforts will leave you nowhere, Every
Single Student should take care of Their Parents "
Swami then wonderfully said " My Life, Word and Deed are all for My Devotees,
Iam Omnipresent among each and everyone of you. True Love and Faith are the most
Important things to achieve the Goals of Life.
After Bhagawan's Divine Discourse got over by 5:30 P.M, The Convocation Drama by
the Students was held in the Majestic Poornachandra, Swami came at around 5:45
P.M and first blessed the actors, saw the costumes and make-up of every Single
Actor in the Drama. The Drama which was wonderfully staged had everyone
engrossed. Swami was so engrossed in the drama, and was very happy at the end of
it. Many VIPs who were seated next to swami, were in tears. The settings, the
costumes and make-up ad the music , everything was Wonderful and Perfect. The
storyline of the Drama was gripping and hence it turned out to be one of the
best performance by the Students in the recent times. Swami posed for group
photographs with the actors. While Swami was returning back, all the Students
Prayed for His Divine Blessings and greeted Swami with a Wonderful Chorus of
"Happy Birthday". Swami gave a Wonderful Smile and said "Thank you" and also
said "Very Very Happy".
Another Convocation has ended, Swami's Wonderful Words still Linger in
everybody's mind.
Om Sai Ram
Sent by K M on 23.11.2007
Since many days, we’ve been expecting Swami to come to college and see the drama practice. He too has been showing a keen interest in the play.
Yesterday, all of us were expecting Swami to come in the morning, as He said on the previous day that He’d see our practice after bhajans. Due to the recording session of dialogues in progress, we slept late in the night, the day before.
It was 10 am in the morning but there was no sign of Swami coming. He did not come out of Yajur mandir for the bhajans too. Finally at 10.30 we got the message that Swami had gone upstairs to his room. We were dejected a bit, but knew that the afternoon would be most probable time for Swami’s visit.
At 3 pm all of us assembled again in the auditorium. Satyajit had conveyed the message that Swami would come after 3.30pm. There was a lot of anticipation as usual. Many senior people also came and waited. Swami came at about 4 pm.As soon as He stepped out of car, He asked a teacher, "when did boys come?" Teacher replied, "Swami 3 pm" . Swami was upset "I told you i will come at 4 pm , then why did you call boys early and make them wait ?" That's our Mother's love.
As He entered the auditorium, He saw the drama troupe. The boy enacting the role of Tanesha (king) was ready in his costume. He asked the boy, “who are you?” the boy replied, “Swami, I am the king”. “king emi?” He asked again. “Swami, sultan of
Hyderabad.” Swami looked at Him and replied “ Phir Hyderabad jaao (then go to Hyderabad)”.
He sat in the center of front row and asked us to begin. There were quite a few emotional scenes and touching scenes in the drama. He was in tears on the more than one occasion. There’s a scene where Ramdas sings in prison and Rama and Lakshmana watch from behind. After the drama, He called Rama and said, “you sang well. So, you two help Ramdas in repaying the debts, isn’t it?”
Overall He was very happy and said “short drama. Chala bagundi (very nice)”. Well, experience tells us that there is always calm before the storm. He did not point our mistakes today.
By A Sai Student
The Akhanda bhajan this year was very special. i think Swami must have broken His all time record of collecting maximum letters on a single day. Right from the beginning, He was entirely involved in ensuring that we are focused on the bhajans, as He would come out frequently from the bhajan mandir and survey the entire Kulwant hall in chair. this topic requires more elaboration and i'd defer it for a later date for paucity of time.
Yesterday, He came late in the evening when bhajans had already begun. After about 4 bhajans, He asked Prof. G Venkatraman to speak. After the speech, He called for the mike to be brought and began His discourse! If He wants a programme, He has 101 ways of bringing it up. All this was happening inside bhajan hall.
Excerpts from His discourse:
-
Akhanda bhajan means singing the glory of God in all 3 states ie the waking state, dream state and deep sleep state.
-
There are 3 hands of a clock- the seconds, minutes and the hours hand. Of these, the hours hand assumes maximum importance.
-
(Swami narrated the story of parrot and king where the parrot is told to go and ask different animals to chant Rama’s name) All species rise above their levels. Man however, remains at the same stage and does not progress. Though he chants the name of God, he has a wavering mind
-
Thus transformation is hard to come about in man. If you do every activity with the feeling that it is God’s work, then there will be transformation. For example, while cooking, you can think that the food is being prepared for God
-
At least once, you must utter the divine name with complete faith. That amounts to the “hours” hand of the clock. Empty repeating of God’s name is like the seconds and minutes hand.
-
People make various excuses like cold, throat pain etc for not singing bhajans. Even a dead person can be brought back to life by the power of divine name. Eg. Savitri
-
With a pure mind and sacred heart, chant the name of God
-
Man is a replica of God. Therefore, he must have the same purity of love that God has. You are a spark of the Divine. Do not forget this fact. If you contemplate on this truth, it amounts to having read the Bhagavad Gita itself.
-
Truth is God . Faith is God. Love is God, live in love. Always remember these 3 statements.
-
Waves (problems) come and go but the water (faith) remains constant. Thoughts are like passing clouds. So, strengthen your faith.
-
All that glitters is not diamond. “Die mind” and become a diamond. Do not get carried away by temporary things.
-
Akhanda bhajan is kept with this purpose. In between the bhajans, if we get up and go, the mind gets disconnected. Swami does not say that you must remain 24 hrs without food or bath. Even while partaking food, contemplate on the divine.
-
In Bhagvad Gita,
Krishna said “O Arjuna ! Fight while thinking of me”. That is namasmarana. There is no big deal fighting wars with weapons. True weapon is name of the Lord.
-
Work with a smile. True happiness is union with God.
-
Attending bhajans in the morning and evening is a great fortune. Do not waste this opportunity
By A Sai Student
Prasanthi
Update - November 13th Divine
Discourse
Yesterday ( 13th ) evening after
a Few Bhajans, there was a talk
by a Devotee from inside the
Kulwanth Hall wherein He
wonderfully spoke about the
Great Importance of Namasmaranam
or Chanting the Divine Name.
After His Speech ended at approx
5:35 P.M , Swami started His
Wonderful Discourse explaining
as to Akanda Bhajan is conducted
every Year in Prasanthi Nilayam
and done by Millions of Devotees
all over the World.
Swami said that every Single
Devotee should chant the Lord's
name and not bother about
whatever Work they are engaged
in. That is true Namasmarana
Swami said. Swami then
Wonderfully said " Dedicate any
work you do to Swami"
Swami gave a Wonderful example
of a Small Calf being
transformed into a Human Being
by Chanting the Divine Name.
Swami said that all the Devotees
while Chanting the Lord's Name
should not bother about the Tune
etc, It doesn't matter as to how
you chant the Lord's name as
long as you do it with True
Bhakthi and with Sincerity.
Swami also said that Akhanda
Bhajan is conducted year after
year to remind every single
Devotee to chant the Lord's Name
all the time.
The Divine Discourse lasted
about 45 minutes after which
Mangala Aarathi was taken and
Prasadam Distributed to all
present.
A Wonderful Discourse by Swami
on Akanda Bhajans.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy:
KM 14.11.2007
Swamy's foot print in Muscat
This should
not come as a (pleasant)
surprise at all to most of us
who have been with Sai for such
a long time as we all are
already aware that Sai is the
Omnipresent Lord, but however,
probably just to re-confirm and
enhance our faith in Him, I am
forwarding this message.
It would not be a bad idea, if
we take, if not full 11 seconds
as Sai said
but at least a moment NOW
wherever we are, to close our
eyes in meditation and
RE-DEDICATE ourselves to the
Lord's Service at His Divine
Lotus Feet.
Sai Ram,
photos forwarded by Deepak
Wadhwani from Austrailia via
email recieved by him from Raam
Didugu
Dear
Brother / Sister sairams to you
We had akhanda bhajan in Muscat
starting from 6.00pm on 1.11.07
to 6.00pm on 2.11.07. This was
held in 2 centres. From 6.00 pm
to 6.00 am and 6.00 am to 6.00
pm.
After finishing the first 12
hours bhajan while rolling the
red carpet the host noticed
swamy's foot prints on the red
carpet. When they realised it
was Swamy's foot print, they
searched the camera for taking
the snaps. But they could not
locate their camera. With
sadness when he tried to fold
the carpet he noticed a camera
lying near the door which was
forgotten by a devotee. They
used that camera to take the
snaps. Few snaps are attached
herewith.
Jai sairams
rai
Courtesy:
Saibabanews 11.11.2007
Akhanda Bhajan Update-2
Sent by a
Dear Sai Brother from Prasanthi
Nilayam :
This years Akanda Bhajan was a
phenomenal one as Swami gave the
Most Wonderful Darshan to each
an everyone in Kulwanth Hall.
From Yesterday when the Akanda
Bhajan's Started, Swami went
around in Kulwant hall in all
directions so many times. It was
Awesome and wonderful in
everyway, Never had in the
recent past has Swami given such
Wonderful Darshan's to all in
the past 2 Days of Akanda
Bhajans.
Swami was so loving and gracious
to go around and bless all the
people assembled for the bhajans.
It was very inspiring to
participate in the bhajans.
Swami was there in kulwant hall
till 7:15pm yesterday, then came
back again at 8 pm today and
stayed till almost 9pm. Today
morning Swami came at 9:45 and
stayed till 11:15 am. In the
evening He came at around 4:40.
In these three session, Swami
always came in chair only. He
did not use the car. He went
near all the people, taking
letters, talking to some, and
blessing one and all. The
mangala aarathi took place at
6:05 pm and Swami was monitoring
the prasadam distribution for
some time.
It was really wonderful to have
been a part of this Akanda
Bhajan.....
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy -
KM 11.11.2007
Akhanda Bhajan Update
The Akhanda
Bhajan which began at 5:50 pm in
Sai Kulwant Hall on Saturday
ended at 6.05 P.M on Sunday
On Saturday evening The first
Bhajan of the Akanda Bhajan was
the Melodious and Wonderful
Ganesha Bhajan "Gaja Mukha Gaja
Mukha Gananatha, Shivamuni
Vanditha Gunaseela". Swami gave
a very Wonderful Darshan by
first coming to the Gent's Side
and then to the Ladies making
everyone in Kulwanth Hall so
very happy.Swami left for Yajur
Mandiram at around 7.00 P.M. The
Melodious Bhajans continued into
the Night surcharging the Divine
Atmosphere.
Today ( Sunday) Swami came out
at around 9.30 A.M, After Going
to the Verandah to bless some
Devotees, Swami then came to the
Gent's and Ladies like on
Saturday and gave everyone a
Most Wonderful Darshan. After
the Morning Darshan ended at
around 10.00 P.M , Swami
suddenly after sometime came
outside the Mandir and gave a
Wonderful Darshan to the
Devotees waiting on the side of
the Road.
In the evening Bhagawan came to
at 5:00 pm in His Mobile Chair
and after Giving Darshan to all
returned to the Mandir. Swami
came in the mobile chair and
gave Darshan on the men side and
then the ladies side and
returned to Mandir. At around
5.40 P.M, Swami again came out
and gave Darshan again and also
Blessed the Divine Prasadam of
Tamarind Rice and Sweet Rice to
be distributed to all.At 6:05
P.M The Akhanda Bhajan ended
with the Most Melodious Shiva
Bhajan "Namah Parvati Pataye
Hara Hara, Hara Hara Mahadevaa,,"
, The Managala Aarathi was then
Taken.
Prasadam was Distributed to all
and Swami was watching everyone
Partake the Divine Prasadam.
Thus Ended another Wonderful
Akanda Bhajan which left
everyone Blissful and Happy,
Swami's Birthday is Next.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy KM
11.11.2007
Prasanthi News - Deepavalli Day
Swami gave
the most Wonderful Darshan on
Deepavali Day yesterday. Lots of
. Orissa youth have come to
Prasanthi Nilayam and have been
putting up lots of programmes in
the last few days.
On the Morning of Deepavalli ,
Swami came after the Bhajans had
started, and after his initial
round in the Mobile Car, He came
out again in chair. He went near
Devotees, both ladies and gents,
blessing all of them, on the
Holy day of Diwali, shedding the
light of His Love on all the
people assembled . It was the
Most Divine Darshan for
everyone. Then Swami also took
one full round inside the Bhajan
hall, and came out of the back
door, to the upper portico, and
finally settled down for bhajans.
Managala Aarathi was over by 10
A.M.
In the Evening the Gujarat
Devotees put up a most Wonderful
and Beautiful Cultural Programme.
Incidentally Tomorrow is the
Gujarati New Year and Hence a
lot of Devotees have already
come here.Prasanthi Nilayam is
fully crowded with Devotees.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy KM
- 10.11.2007
Sai
Rhapsody
Sai Ram
embodiments of Lord Sai
My last few remaining days in
Parthi have been simply
DIIIIIIIIIIIIIViiiiiiiiiiiiiie!!!!!!!!
Monday and
Tuesday evening Darshans Swami
gave us a double delight! Monday
evening the Orissa Sai Youth
Group presented a drama,
symphony and amazing temple
dance.
The temple
dance was very impressive. It
was performed by a group of boys
in female roles. These young men
exhibited great skill, strength
and agility, bending their
bodies into statuesque poses
that expressed some spiritual
significance.
Tuesday evening the youth group
staged another play portraying
the life of Dasya, a great
bhakta of Lord Krishna, and his
undaunted devotion despite
belonging to the untouchable
caste of that time period.It was
so very well enacted tears
flowed from many eyes profusely.
In addition
we all enjoyed a brisk dance
performance, very similar to
African ritual tribal dance
movements. Swami materialized a
gold chain for the young student
who played the role of bala
Krishna.
Yesterday evening after Darshan
I was introduced to a very
gracious, ardent and humble
devotee of our Lord, Mr.
Padmanabhan, the owner of Sai
Towers. Mr. P. has had the most
wondrous and unique opportunity
to have been Sai Baba's
photographer for many years.
During our
satsangh Mr. P. shared some of
his thrilling experiences with
our Swami.
On one
occasion Pad was attempting
Photograph Baba, and Swami
commented that he was too slow.
Then our fantastic Sai told him
to watch His photography. Swami
materialized a hollow hologram,
then He shook it and commented
that He was developing the
photo.
What then
appeared was truly mind blowing.
Inside the hologram was an exact
replica of a yellow rose from a
nearby bush. Furthermore as He
passed the hologram around to
the group of students, the rose
kept changing colors!!!!!!
Mr.
Padmanabhan is also the author
of a well known biography of Sai
Avatar, "Love is my form."
At the close of out satsangh, he
very graciously gifted me a copy
of that auspicious book.
I felt
Swami's presence very keenly and
thanked Him from the bottom of
my heart for all the Love He has
showered on me.
This morning's Darshan was just
about to end when Swami dashed
in right before "Om Jai" He came
in His chair and graced us like
a sudden spring shower,
quenching our parched and pining
spirits.
I was just overjoyed, afternoon
darshan was more than I could
have hoped for after all this.
Our divine Baba gave me token #2
and I was able to get first row
on the exit aisle. He floated
into the Mandir in His silver
vehicle circling the Mandir,
slowly and grandly. A little
later He descended the podium
and circled through the white
flocks of students, blessing and
interacting with them. Facing
our direction He hurled a very
intense look in our direction
before ascending the podium.
Then exiting, His gaze swept the
first row and His eyes met mine,
they spoke clearly as a smile
rippled like a soft wave over
His glorious face. He said
spiritually, "Blessings my
child, I am with you"
Well my dear family the hour
grows very late and I still have
a lot to do. Until we meet
again, sending you all Lots and
Lots of Sai Blessings, Peace,
Love and Bliss.
Lots of Prema
sonya ki
Courtesy:
Saibabanews 07.11.2007
Sai
dreamin'
Sai Ram embodiments of Lord Sai
Last night our sweet Lord
appeared in my dreams: we were
all sitting in a circle. Swami
was seated there. When I looked
at Him He was how he looks now,
then all of a sudden He looked
younger, glowing with vim and
vigor, He looked at me intently,
then. He got up and practically
ran around the circle. I said to
a woman next to me see I think
He is trying to show us that his
not being able to walk is just a
role He is playing.
I woke up very happy with that
beautiful contact. This Morning
our sweet Swami did not come out
for darshan, but this afternoon
was an incredible treat. Swami
came early in His car, then came
down off of the veranda and
circled the Mandir giving us all
wonderful chair darshan. He once
again went through the throngs
of students and around the
medical section, down the exit
aisle to the main aisle, where
He turned up the Ladie's side of
the veranda.
I was seated on the front row of
the island section, He didn't
turn in our direction, still
every detail of His form was
visible and the grace of His
exquisite beauty powerfully
touched us.
After bhajans as our Divine Baba
slowly departed, the colors of
the evening sun bleeding through
the mandir mingled with the
rainbow shimmer of the
chandeliers,
every eye straining to see the
last starry silhoutte of His
silver vehicle slowly
disappearing from view. More
bliss later.
Lots of
Prema
sonya ki
Courtesy Saibabanews 03.11.2007
Sai
never can say goodbye
Monsoon tears flash flood the
temple tiles. Desperately I clasp the drowning
days, hours and seconds
close to my heart
Through the mist of departure I
behold Sai Avatar's face
and the constant brightness of
His Cosmic countenance
illumines every nook, cranny and
infinite corner of the Universe
There is no place on earth and
beyond where He is not
Now I am laughing and crying at
the same time
How ~ Maya loves to play her
notorious pranks!
When I board that jet plane on
Thursday
I know my dearest Sai Baba, the
omnipresent Lord
has a first class window seat
right next to me! :)
Lots of Prema
sonya ki
Courtesy
Saibabanews - 03.11.2007
Sai
Liberation
"I have come to give you the key
of the treasure of bliss, to
tell you how to tap that spring,
for you have forgotten the way
to blessedness. If you waste
this chance of saving
yourselves, it is just your
fate. You have come to get from
me tinsel and trash, the petty
little cures and promotions,
worldly joys and comforts. Very
few of you desire to get from me
the very thing I have come to
give you, namely, liberation
itself and even among those of
you who do, those who stick to
the path of spiritual practice
and succeed will only be a
handful. This is a great chance.
This chance will not come your
way again. Be aware of that. If
you cannot and do not cross this
sea of grief now, taking hold of
this chance, when again will you
get such a chance? Be confident
that you will be liberated. Know
that you will be saved. Go and
tell all that you went to
Puttaparthi and that you got
there the secret of liberation.
Many hesitate to believe that
things will improve, that life
will be happy for all and full
of joy and that the Golden Age
will recur. Let me assure you
that this avatar, this divine
body, has not come in vain. It
will succeed in averting the
crisis that has come upon
Humanity.”
Sai Ram
Embodiments of Freedom
Last night
I again sat on my balcony
observing the diamond solitude
of the heavens. Balmy evening
breezes swept over the expanding
vista, and I could feel our Sai
Krishna's presence so, so near.
This
morning Swami came late lifting
our crestfallen spirits to
maximum delerious heights. In
the evening He entered earlier
than usual around 4:20 and we
all could feel something magical
in the air. Our precious Baba
descended the veranda and
circled through the bustle of
white frocked students, speaking
sweetly with them and taking
their letters.
He appeared to be heading back
to the veranda on the Ladies
side. I was seated in the island
section right next to that holy
personage, Vasanta Sai and her
small entourage. As came towards
us He looked very deeply and
keenly in our direction, I felt
that familiar undeniable
connection. it was at that
moment that I was ruminating on
the above quote of Baba's,
specifically:
"You have come to get from me
tinsel and trash, the petty
little cures and promotions,
worldly joys and comforts. Very
few of you desire to get from me
the very thing I have come to
give you, namely, liberation
itself and even among those of
you who do, those who stick to
the path of spiritual practice
and succeed will only be a
handful. This is a great
chance."
What a fortunate period in time
we are all living in! God is
walking the earth, at this very
moment He is extending the
chalice of bliss for all to
drink from! if we choose to do
so! I pray we all realize this
precious, precious, precious
chance.
Our Divine
God couldn't resist our ecstatic
pleas and continued around the
medical side of the Mandir and
down the exit aisle, He then
glided thru the main aisle
turning up the Ladies side of
the veranda. Moreover, He sat
out for a brief time saturating
our hearts with the bliss of His
Presence.
Sending you all prayers that
Liberation and Liberation alone
be your sole goal!
More bliss later.
Lots of Prema
sonya ki
Courtesy
Saibabanews - 02.11.2007
Sent by a
Dear Sai Brother from Prasanthi
Nilayam :
In the last
couple of days Swami has
been coming out rather Late for
Darshan that is around 5.00
P.M.
Today, for
a change Swami came by 4:10 PM
and after taking the initial
rounds , Swami went into the
Bhajan hall for some time.
Then Swami came out and took a
long round of Divine Darshan in
His chair and all the Devotees
and the Students had the most
Wonderful Darshan. Swami ordered
the chair to be taken near the
Devotees, and after few paces,
turned around, went near the
students, then, crossing them,
went near ladies side, and
instead of turning into portico,
He went once again to ladies
side, spoke to some Ananthapur
teachers, took a full round, and
was about to come to the Boys'
block.
Since the
number of students are very less
as it Vacation time for the
Educational Institutions, the
boys ran and wanted to catch up
in that line, and Swami turned
right to come back to portico!!
After this, Swami sat on the
dais for sometime and blessed a
few students. Swami also called
one school student and created a
most Beautiful chain for him and
Blessed him. After some time
Swami went into interview room
and the Bhajans started at five.
The Holidays are coming to an
end and all the students are
expected by the 4th morning. The
New Semester begins on the 5th
and then the Wonderful festive
season begins.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy:
KM 02.11.2007
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