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Divine and
Wonderful Materializations By Swami :
http://www.metacafe.com/watch/448043/living_god/
http://www.metacafe.com/watch/402001/living_god/
http://www.metacafe.com/watch/502965/living_god/
Wonderful Video
of Swami :
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlH915HI-Y8
Divine Sai Leela
:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mz6kxP-B4oc
Courtesy: K M |
Sai Shirdi
Sai Ram Embodiments of Shirdi, Sathya and Prema Sai
I've just now returned from an awesome birthday
celebration! about 2 weeks ago a devotee told me to keep
the 28th of October in memory, something to do with
honoring the ancestors and Shirdi. This morning,
partially recalling the devotee's words, I said to Swami
mentally, well I don't know what this is all about, but
I am not going to bother with it. Later after evening
Darshan, I met up with my buddy, Lalitha, we had a cool
drink and went for a walk, later she wanted to
circumambulate Ganesha in the ashram, so we orbited Lord
Ganesha after which we were about to go for a walk
towards the rear of the ashram, when an acquaintance
approached Lalitha and excitedly described a function
going on over by the General hospital. Hurriedly, we
dashed over there, discovering that it was actually a
birthday celebration for Shirdi Sai Baba!
A thousand captivating candles illumined the beautiful
Shirdi Mandir near the General Hospital. Crystal
waterfalls cascaded down an artfully sculpted, faux
mountainside. In the center of the waterfall was a
golden Om composed of many flickering flames. At the
apex of the mountain was a marvelous statue of Lord
Shirdi Sai tenderly overlooking the devotees and at the
base a five headed cobra, the Nag, it's hoods fanning
out over a white Shiva Lingam......... an absolutely
breathtaking vista! Thank You Swami!
This afternoon Darshan our God of the Universe entered
the Mandir His divine hand raised in blessing. I was
seated facing the entrance in the middle, island
section. Swami gave us all ultimate bliss coming in His
Royal Chair.
I have been nursing the idea that we should really try
and give back something to the Universe everyday. God
takes care of us all so wonderfully, we should share
some our blessings with others. On one recent occasion,
I bent down to give some food to a person on the street
and had the unique and amazing sensation of milk flowing
from my heart, it was a very intense and vivid
impression.
Well my dears the hour grows late. More
Bliss later.
Lots of Prema
sonya ki
Courtesy: Saibabanews 28.09.2007
Sai Ecstasy
Sai Ram Embodiments of Pure Love
This morning Darshan, our Baba came at the very last
minute, we were all mustering up the strength to face
the day without His blessed appearance, when the sun
broke thru the gathering clouds and everyone's face lit
up with the rays of His heavenly chair darshan., I was
seated in the middle island section. Swami went down the
main aisle then made a sharp turn up the side of that
section coming very close to us and on to the veranda.
He stayed briefly, bhajans finished and Lord Sai exited
the Mandir.
This afternoon For the third time this week I had a
wonderful front row position facing the entrance of the
Mandir in that middle island section that I love. He
came in His car and again turned up the Ladies side to
the veranda. He sat outside with us enjoying a
performance put on by youth from Uttrakhand, India. It
was entitled, Mahasu Ki Mahimas, a collection of folk
dance and songs describing the leelas of Lord Shiva and
Gram seva.
Swami distributed white cloth to the
Youth and also allowed photo moments, afterwhich
prasadam was distributed.
Lately, I have been reflecting on how very important
Seva is, the world is so full of discord and hatred,
Love is the only way and Seva is the direct expression
of Purest Love. That's why our Baba places so much
emphasis on service. Love all, serve all and feel the
expansion from within and without.
For the moment the crowds have subsided,
these sweet interludes with our Bhagavan are so
precious, I try not to miss any Darshans. Sai Avatar, an
incarnation of God greater than anything the world has
ever witnessed is here amongst us, what more can I
say?!!!
Lots and Lots of Prema
sonya ki
courtesy: Saibabanews 26.09.2007
Sent by a Dear Sai Brother from Prasanthi
Nilayam :
Neti Yashoda Karanam Subbamma:
It
is not a story untold. It is not a description of an
unknown. Yet it had a great impact on the minds of the
audience and captured the heart of our Sweet Lord. The
portrayal of the story of Karanam Subbamma by the
children from Mahaboobnagar district was a phenomena by
itself.
The
theme of the dance-drama was the relation between
Yashodha and Karanam Subbamma. The story began with the
scene of Akrura coming to visit Krishna to take him to
the kingdom of Kamsa. In the dialogues that follow,
Yashodha is made to understand that she is not the
mother of Krishna and that Krishna is not an ordinary
human, but the divine incarnation. With Krishna
revealing his identity to Yashodha, He also promises her
that his relation with her as mother and child will not
be taken away and that he will bless with one more such
opportunity in the kaliyuga when He is born as Sathya
Sai.
The scene now shifts to Parthi village where
Karanam Subbamma is lovingly feeding Sathya and his
friends and she is always immersed in his thoughts. In
the later scene, she declares that all her property will
be written in the name of Sathya for His work. She prays
to him that when the last moment comes, He should be
with her and feed her the tulsi water such that she will
reach His Feet.
When the time comes for her departure, Swami is not in
town and when doctors declare her dead, people comment
that Sathya has not kept his promise! Well, we all know
that Swami did go there and revived her, fed her and
made her leave in peace.
The major highlights of this program was the wonderful
telugu dialogues. Full marks to the script writer(s) and
music. Digitally recorded tracks was pleasing to the
ears. Clarity was the hallmark of the program. Acting,
well, no words to describe. The cute young Sathya
captured everyones attention. The girl who acted as
Subbamma was crying in the end. She was so much involved
in the role she played.
Another
nice thing was that instead of really showing the scene
of Karanam Subbamma lying on her death bed, the scene
was just narrated, to avoid making everyone become
emotional! Towards the end, a big portrait of Subbamma
was displayed.
The
entire program was well organized with good settings.
The dances in between were good with colourful costumes.
The program brought back memories of those beautiful
days in Puttaparthi. Subbamma was truly Yashoda of those
days!
Swami came down and spent time with the children. Gave
them some gifts of love and also group photographs.
The Mahaboobnagar
people had arranged for distribution of tricycles,
computers, sewing machines, etc, for some deserved
people. This was announced before this program commenced
and swami blessed those.
Om Sai Ram
emailed by KM on 24.09.2007
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Sai Compassionate
Sai Ram incarnations of Love and Bliss
This afternoon's Darshan was just too
exquisite for words!!!!
Due to the massive crowds, it was all on a
first come first mad dash basis.
I was able to find a really incredibly
blessed place about third row in the exit aisle.
While we were waiting for the Lord to arrive in all His Divine
Splendor. We noticed a young lady and (I am assuming) her
Mother. The young woman had a robe she wanted to have blessed by
Swami, all the close seating had been swallowed up and the
elderly lady tried desperately to get the Seva Dals to squeeze
the young woman into a front seating.
Finally, the woman directly in front of me called her over and
graciously gave up her seat. What a magnificently kind act; most
of us are particularly possessive when it comes to any chance of
being close to Baba. The kind lady went to the back but no one
wanted to move and allow her to get a seat even there. I called
her over and she squeezed in behind me. Then another loving lady
in the first row promised to exchange places with her when Swami
exited.
Our Illustrious Baba made His splendid entrance seated on His
Throne and gave fantastic darshan, roaming around the Mandir,
showering Bliss on everyone.
There was one occasion when He came down on
the Ladies side and once again, I called to Him imploring Him to
come over to our side. He faced us and permitted some V.I.P.
ladies to come over, and sit at His lotus feet for an extended
time allowing us to breathe in the vivid, endless beauty of His
blessed form. After which, once more He wavered as if being
pulled by the invisible magnet of our Love, but turned instead
and gave attention to the crores of blue scarved devotees from
Andrah Pradesh.
These devotees put on a lovely performance in Telugu, Swami sat
enjoying thoroughly, blessing the performers with sari cloth and
photo moments.
When our Lord exited the Mandir, as promised the lady in front
row exchanged places with the young maiden offering the robe.
She was sobbing uncontrollably. Our merciful, compassionate
Lord, turned His Heavenly face towards us and as He passed her
lifted His golden hand in Blessing. Paradise!!!!!!!!
It is sheer madness outside the ashram, I can't imagine anymore
people fitting into this tiny town, but our Lord has predicted
that 2/3 of the world will believe in Him before it is all
over!!!! all I can say is WOW! More Bliss later.
Lots of Prema
sonya ki
Courtesy: Saibabanews 23.09.2007
Sai Immeasurable
Sai Ram Atmic beings
This weekend bus loads of devotees arrived from Andhra Pradesh.
The Mandir was filled to the brim, nevertheless our Sweet Lord
gave me very wonderful Darshan yesterday evening and this morning.
Yesterday, I was able to secure a spot very near the entrance of
the Mandir, the crowds went willd as our Baba entered the Mandir
in His chair, He smiled, beaming joy and resplendent rays of Light
throughout the hall. Swami circled the Mandir, and then went onto
the veranda, sitting outside awhile with us before going into the
bhajan hall. After bhajans I was able to see Lord Sai facing my
section while exiting. As He turned the corner, I said softly,
turn, turn, please one look. What delight! what bliss! Swami
turned His Divine Head, Zeus hurled a golden thunderbolt in our
direction.
This morning Darshan I arrived late, all the wonderful spots were
taken and I was shooed to the back of the overflowing Mandir. I
watched for an opportunity to come forward again. The second
bhajan token line cleared out and I dashed to that section, I was
able to get a perfect place on the left side of the wheelchair
section. There I sat with other devotees waiting for a glimpse of
the Lord of the Universe.
Bhajans
started and shortly thereafter Bhagavan glided down the main
aisle, orbiting the Mandir, thru the throngs of white dressed
students, as He neared our section, I again whispered "come here,
come here, Baba looked over towards us wavering like He might
come, as if the magnetism of our Love was overpowering Him, then
He resisted and sailed onto the podium. Bhajans soon ended and
Swami exited royally in His vehicle.
When I left the ashram I had the good fortune of running into a
very special person, a former Baba student who lived in Florida
for awhile, now residing in Canada, Sathya. He introduced me to a
Mr. Ventakesha, whom he said was responsible for all the sports
events in the Ashram and played a principle role in the
construction of the new International Sports center. I invited
Sathya to come for satsangh at my new place.
The rains have ceased and the weather here has been beautiful and
bright. Sending you all crores of Sai Love and Peace.
Lots of Bliss
sonya ki
Courtesy: Saibabanews 23.09.2007
Sai Amritam
Sai Ram Dear Ones
Our precious Swami has not come out for the past several
heartbroken mornings, we have had to focus hard and feel His
invisible Presence in, around, above and below us.
Thursday afternoon Darshan was magical. I saw my friend Lalitha
in the token line and we sat together. Suddenly all Heaven broke
loose. It was around 2:45 or so and our Lord of mischievous
pranks appeared, we all darted to the fence and gates outside
the mandir, straining for a glimpse of Him, the Seva dals trying
fruitlessly to maintain order. The men were already seated
inside the Mandir, Swami entered slowly and turned up the Ladies
side of the hall onto the veranda. We watched from outside as He
gave Darshan to beings not visible to the naked eye. Then we all
returned to the discipline of the token lines. Lo and behold
Lalitha and I received token numeral 1 !!!!!
We dashed to the main center aisle receiving front row right
before the VIP lines. Swami was inside the interview room, after
which gorgeous Sai Krishna sat outside and allowed us to sip
from the celestial cistern of His form. We all swooned in that
sweetness, as our beautiful God cast holy looks in our
direction.
One of the VIP's
directly in front of me was called into the interview room a
little later, and another left after Swami went inside. My
loving friend gave me the front row seat, and when the lady who
had received the interview returned, I was seated next to her,
she exclaimed that Swami said, "she never expected me to call
her," One lady from Singapore asked her how to go about getting
an audience with Lord Sai it was her first trip to Parthi and
she didn't know the ropes. Everyone set about telling her it was
totally Swami's Will on who to call for an interview. She then
asked how did Swami know everyone's name and what did He do
inside the interview room. The devotee who had obtained this
boon, graciously told her that Swami knows everything and that
He speaks to us under those intimate circumstance like a very
concerned Parent to a child.
Bhajans started and the Bliss continued.
Yesterday Darshan, Swami came in His car and gave more
interviews then sat inside for bhajans. More Bliss later.
Lots of Prema
sonya ki
Courtesy: Saibabanews 22.09.2007
Thursday, September
20, 2007
The Krishanaashtami festival this year was a unique experience. It
was very special, especially because i got a chance to participate
in the key programmes. thus i could have many insightful first
hand experiences.
A few days before the festival, Swami expressed His wish to have a
cow procession led by students on the festival day. It has been a
custom for decades for the students to get the cows to mandir on
this day and then Swami would feed the cows with fruits, then
bless the students too.Thus it is one of the sought after chances
for the students here. but slowly, the many chances that we get on
this day have been reducing year after year.
So, this year, none of us expected this event. It was Swami who
mentioned it to an elder and asked for the programme. for days, i
had been thinking about how all of us used to enjoy getting lots
of chances on this day, in the past. i felt sad that those
wonderful times were a thing of the past. Few days later, a
student brother came up to me and said that Swami asked for the
cow procession and that i was selected as one of the cowboys! my
joy knew no bounds.
The next morning, all the selected students assembled in Gokulam
for getting a practice on handling the cows. Myself and another
student brother were assigned a cow kept near the Samadhi place of
Swami's parents. this cow (Gayatri) is special, since the milk
given by her (approx. 16 litres a day) is supplied to Swami's
residence. She was one of the two cows selected from the Samadhi
place for the procession (the other was her mother). Gayatri was
four months pregnant. She was very cooperative when we took her
for the practice walks, unlike other cows who took the boys for a
ride.
After two days of practice, the D-day of festival arrived. We got
up early in the morning and proceeded to the cow shed to decorate
our cows. The procession began at 8 am. It was truly an amazing
sight as the little Krishna Gita was leading some 20 cows. also,
there were other animals like the deer, peacock and doves which
were being brought by the students. The baby elephant was at her
cheerful best.
We we entered the Kulwant Hall from Gopuram gate led by the baby
elephant and arranged the cows in rows on both sides. Swami was
just arriving to the Hall in car. He was wearing a beautiful
yellow robe. He stopped near Krishna Gita, got down and fed Her
fruits. KG was ready with her amusing pranks. First, she
prostrated before Swami with her forelegs stretched and trunk
raised.......
The Krishanaashtami festival
The Krishanaashtami festival this year was a unique experience. It
was very special, especially because i got a chance to participate
in the key programmes. thus i could have many insightful first
hand experiences.
A few days before the festival, Swami expressed His wish to have a
cow procession led by students on the festival day. It has been a
custom for decades for the students to get the cows to mandir on
this day and then Swami would feed the cows with fruits, then
bless the students too. Thus it is one of the sought after chances
for the students here. but slowly, the many chances that we get on
this day have been reducing year after year.
So, this year, none of us expected this event. It was Swami who
mentioned it to an elder and asked for the programme. for days, i
had been thinking about how all of us used to enjoy getting lots
of chances on this day, in the past. i felt sad that those
wonderful times were a thing of the past. Few days later, a
student brother came up to me and said that Swami asked for the
cow procession and that i was selected as one of the
cowboys!.....(to be contd.)
IT`S POURING, AND POURING MORE LOVE.........
Sai Ram, I must apologise for my prolonged absence from the
blogging world. during the past 20 days, so many interesting
incidents have occured that one or two posts cannot capture them.
well, the phrases like "interesting incidents" are a cliche here.
But then,listening to any number of these do not quench our thirst
enough.
These days, Parthi has been seeing a lot of rain; feels like the
monsoon has just begun. Our beloved Swami has been equally
unpredictable in His darshans and interactions. Recently, we
witnessed the Krishnaashtami and Ganesh Chaturthi festivals.
Generally, the mood is upbeat during these times but when we see
that Swami too shows a keen interest in celebrations, our zeal
knows no bounds. This is what exactly happened this time.
Before Krishnaashtami, Swami expressed His wish to have procession
of Gokulam cows led by few of our students. There was a lot of
excitement on that day, which i have dealt in detail in my next
post.
The Ganesha festival was equally wonderful. As a custom, the
students prepare Chariots for Ganesha to be taken to Swami during
the immersion day. This year, the students showed a lot of skills
in their innovation and design. There was a Dragon chariot by 12th
class students, a chariot in the form of a huge ship prepared bu
class 10, and many other beautiful masterpieces. Even the
Hoggwarts school design was not spared!
Swami came very late, around 5 pm to see the chariots with
Ganeshas. He went around and looked at each of them. we could see
that he was very impressed, not because the chariots were good,
but because His students had worked hard to impress Him. This is
what happens in any programme. And this is what keeps us going.
The bond with our mother is so deep and strong that both of us
compete in making each other happy.
Well, keeping competition
apart (After all Sai`s love has no competition) the entire evening
was filled with joy. the chariot boys took Swami`s blessings and
left for the immersion. even before the bhajans began, Swami went
back to Yajur mandir. we were surprised. No sooner di we think
that the session was over than our Lord sent a message: "All boys
must return to mandir for bhajans, i want to see them." Can we
measure the love of our Lord?
Each day, He makes it a point to come to the portico and sit for
some time. it appears as if a shepherd watches over His flock of
sheep. And His sheep can only wish that such times may last an
eternity.
By a Sai Student
Prasanthi Update -
19th September.
Sent by a Dear Sai Brother from Parthi :
Today was the day when Swami had said that all the Ganesha statues
must be immersed. Heavy preparations were on by the students and
staff of all the institutions at Parthi. The Vidyagiri stadium had
become home to the students who had become artisans designing
vehicles for Lord Ganesha's journey. One could see the Harry
Potter influence on school children as the main chariot was shaped
like that of the Tri -Wizard tournament cup! There was also the
Hogwarts shield as one of the palanquins. Apart from these, there
was a chariot that was aptly named "Ekadanta Express" and was
shaped like a train engine. A huge urn (sacred pot) was the theme
of the Institute chariot. There were flowery chariots and the
Ganesha temple at Prashanti Nilayam entrance had been beautifully
replicated as the Central Trust chariot. (The descriptions here
are only a few of the numerous chariots and palanquins that wended
their way to the mandir.)
The roads had not only been washed by the heavy rains, they had
clogged too! Everything everywhere was wet but nothing seemed to
dampen the spirits of the students and staff as they walked in the
procession singing bhajans and chanting vedas in full gusto.
Within an hour, the mandir had a transformed look.
It looked like the divine forces had gathered on some ethereal
battlefield - battling to win the Lord's Grace and Love. Swami
came out at 4:40pm. He preferred to come on the wheel sofa rather
than the car. He went around slowly looking at all the assembled
chariots. The labour of Love seemed to be paid back in full with
the look of Love. The head priests of each chariot went up to
Swami with an idol of Ganesha and Swami blessed them. Swami also
blessed the prasadam at many chariots.
The whole exercise of making these chariots is so spiritual. The
central theme of the Bhagavad Gita is Karma Phala Tyaaga
(renouncing the fruit of action - action without expectation.)
This chariot making seems to embody that philosophy. Everybody
sweats and toils- days and nights -to get beautiful chariots ready
for Ganesha. The glory and grandeur of the chariots lasts only a
few hours during the procession. Once the immersion ceremony is
over, the chariots are just forgotten. Nobody seems to cringe or
cry that such a mammoth effort is not being preserved. It is often
missed but a real powerful example of detachment and renunciation.
And all the effort is just to make Swami happy. It would indeed be
an uplifting experience if we make our lives into one big chariot
making ceremony.
Swami completed a full round and then took His place on the stage.
He said that it was getting late and the idols should be taken for
immersion. One by one in a disciplined manner, each chariot was
brought front and displayed before Swami. Swami would bless the
chariot and then they would be taken away. Each group seemed to
adopt its own unique way of offering obeisances to Swami. Some of
them, fell fully prostrate on the floor. There was a lion dance by
one group, loud bhajans by another and a U shaped formation by
some others. But the love, devotion and enthusiasm were all the
common factors. By about 5:15 pm, all the chariots were on their
way to the immersion pond. Boys rushed in to fill the place that
had been kept vacant to accommodate the chariots.
The Veda chanting went on. It now seemed to be resounding as all
the boys chanted with renewed vigour that comes when God sits in
your midst. Swami was very insistent that the boys who had gone
for the immersion be back in Mandir soon. What could be seen on
His face was motherly concern and care. It had been raining very
heavily the last few days in the evening and Swami wanted to be
done with the immersion as soon as possible. He blessed prasadam
to be distributed. Seeing the sweet packets in the hands of the
students in the first row, He signaled them to eat them and have
fun! Then, saying that He would be back soon, Swami left for Yajur
Mandir. Bhajans began.
Messages were sent that
Swami wanted all the boys back in mandir soon. A steady stream of
boys began trickling into the Kulwant Hall. As per His word, Swami
came out at about 6:00pm again and went into the bhajan hall. He
once again came out on the wheel sofa as if to confirm whether all
the boys had returned. He went around wearing a beautiful and
fulfilling smile. All present were indeed fortunate to have God
coming out to have their darshan literally for He wanted to ensure
that all were safe and happy.
There are so many things that God need never do at all. He has no
duties or responsibilities. He is complete freedom. And yet, when
out of sheer Love for all of us, He goes out of His way to do
things, one cannot help feeling touched. That same sensation
welled up in anyone who sat seeing Swami going around at 6:15pm.
Swami never tires of doing the same things over and over again -
year after year. Ever-fresh - that must be one of the foremost
qualities of Love.
Then at about 6:20 pm, Swami received Aarthi and then retired.
Courtesy: KM emailed on 19.09.2007
Sai Eternal
Sai Ram embodiments of Lord Sai
The Monsoon season is in full swing.Throbbing rains drench the
roads and village of Puttaparthi. My friend Padma from South
Africa, went to have the Darshan of the Chitravati River, she told
me the river is so swollen and full there are huge fish leaping
and playing in the holy waters.
This morning, our radiant Baba, the true Sun, broke thru the gray,
cloudy skies flooding the Mandir with His Love. Swami, "Heaven on
wheels," came in His chair granting us all the Bliss of His full
form.
I was seated in my special island spot facing the entrance of the
Mandir in the first row. Sai Avatar was all smiles, glowing from
head to toe. As He looked in our direction, I felt that
instantaneous divine switchboard connection. Swami continued down
the main aisle. As we all scrambled to the other side of the
island section to get more darshan from that angle, Swami abruptly
turned up our side towards the veranda. I looked up just in time
to see him flying along the edge, I thought to myself "Oh there
You are,"
Again gazing fully in our direction, He chuckled and smiled giving
us all glorious, copious looks. It's amazing that no matter how
many times you see Him it always feels like the first breathtaking
time!!!!! Such a beautiful darshan so unexpected, like a celestial
butterfly alighting on one's extended finger.The skies may be dark
and somber, but for all of us today, the Sun is definitely out.
Past few Darshans Swami did not come out in the Morning. At the
close of the 3 day Ganesh celebration, He came and blessed all the
beautiful, ingeniously constructed Ganesha's created by His
students. We all had excellent Darshan.
The crowds have quieted down considerably after the Ganesha
celebrations, allowing us all heavenly proximity to Bhagavan Baba.
Just now I also went with another friend Lalitha from South Africa
to have the Darshan of the Chitravati River. It was indeed
brimming and overflowing. Lalitha said that for many years it has
been so dry and parched, it is only the blessing of Bhagavan Baba
that has restored it to it's pristine glory. We both prayed on the
banks of that sacred river, the same holy waters that the Lord of
the Universe played in as a boy. The twilight shadows settling on
the rippling river and the majestic hills in the background filled
us both with a sense of beauty and awe.
More bliss later....
Lots of Prema
sonya ki
Courtesy: Saibabanews 19.09.2007
Prasanthi Update -
Ganesha Immersion Day
Today the 17th was the Ganesha immersion day. It is the tradition
of the Prasanthi nilayam students to prepare chariots for carrying
Lord Ganesha to the mandir and then take him to the lake for
immersion.
This year also students had prepared different models for carrying
their class Ganeshas. Colourful and innovative designs marked this
years ceremony, like every year. Swami came for evening darshan in
chair around 4:30 P.M and then took a look at all the chariots.
Then, sitting on the dias, Swami ordered the groups one by one to
come in front of him and show the same and exit. One particular
model by the Ist pG students was really good, it was called "Ekadantha
express" a train engine!! Similarly the charoit design by the
Central Trust boys was architecturally fantastic. Swami said that
all the designs were good and the boys had put in lot of effort to
please HIM.
Swami blessed all the groups, sat there patiently till every one
exited, then he went to his residence and sent message that boys
may come back to mandir after immersion procession is complete. He
came at 6 P.M and bhajans were there. He was gracious enough to
come out in the middle of bhajans and go near students and allowed
them to touch his feet as a mark of acknowledging their good work.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy: KM emailed on 16.09.2007
Prasanthi Update -
Ganesha Chathurthi Day
Sent by a Dear Sai Brother from Prasanthi Nilayam :
The Ganesh Chaturthi festival was a silent affair in Prasanthi
Nilayam.
In the Morning Swami came very late and there were a Few songs and
Bhajans. Swami blessed the Ganeshas before and also Swami
instructed that the Pooja in the hostel should commence 10:30 A.M
.
In the evening there was no Divine Discourse by Swami.
In the morning The Seva Dal of West Godavari District of Andhra
Pradesh had undertaken a service project of providing artificial
limbs to handicapped people. The Sevadal and the handicapped
persons had come to Prasanthi Nilayam three days back and were
waiting for Bhagawan's Divine Blessings.
They were sitting in the
front of the Dias and when Swami came at 9.00 A.M Bhajans were on,
but Swami came straight and went near all these people and Blessed
them. Swami first went the to the Ladies side and gave them Sarees
and Vibuthi prasadam and of Course His Divine Blessings and then
Swami went to the Gents side and spoke to quite a few of them, and
also Created a Wonderful Diamond Ring to one person, and then
blessed the handicapped people with dhotis and prasadam. They were
all already on their artificial limbs. Then Swami gave a small but
a Wonderful Speech in Telugu for about 10 Minutes and later asked
Prof Anil Kumar to speak. Swami was very happy and told them that
He is always with them and that if they all are happy HE will be
happy. Bhajans and Mangala Aarthi followed.
In the Evening , the 2nd Year Under Graduate Students of the Sri
Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning put up a Wonderful
Programme on the significance of the Ganesh Chaturthi Festival and
its significance. The Wonderful Drama recalled as to how Lord
Krishna had to suffer on seeing the moon, and other stories, and
also the story of Lord Ganesha winning the race by Going around
His Parents the world were wonderfully Depicted. The Program also
included a couple of dances. The costumes were rich and colourful
and the students had put in enormous effort to make the entire
program a big success. Swami spent time with the students before
the drama and also after the program. He took some Group
Photographs with them. Then Bhajans and Mangala Arathi followed.
Today ( 17th September ) is the Ganesha Idol Immersion day in
Prasanthi Nilayam.
Courtesy: KM emailed on 16.09.2007
Om Sai Ram
Prasanthi Update - Drenched by Rain outside and by Divine
Love inside
On Thursday, Bhagawan after 4.00 P.M which was quite late in the
evening, But the Divine Lord sat outside for quite a long time and
Blessed many Boys and also took letters from many Boys and one
lucky Boy got a most Wonderful Gold Chain.
On Friday in the evening it began to rain and Swami did not come
till 5.00 P.M . When Bhajans started and to the happiness of
everyone Swami came in the Car and after Blessing everyone with a
Full Round and also Accepting letters from many people, Swami
blessed a few boys who were having small Ganesh idols for the
Chathurthi Festival . When everyone was thinking that Swami will
go to Bhajan Hall, Swami came onto the Portico and Blessed Many
people.
Swami then took one full round on the upper portico, and instead
of sitting in Bhajan hall, Swami came out again! While the
outdoors were drenched by the rains from heavens, the indoors were
filled with the grace of the radiant Lord, who chose to shower His
love on the devotees who were seated there from afternoon. After
spending sometime outside, Swami finally went to Bhajan hall, and
in the meanwhile Prasadam was Distributed and Aarthi was taken at
around 5.50 P.M .
Courtesy: KM emailed on 16.09.2007
Sai Ganapati
Sai Ram Temples of the Living God
Our Divine Baba showered His Golden Grace on us this afternoon
Darshan, sitting out and enjoying a performance put on by the
students in which the true meaning of Ganesh Chaturti was
revealed. This morning I skipped Darshan but my friend Lalitha an
artist from South Africa told me Swami gave a mini discourse and
roamed around the Mandir giving excellent Darshan.
This evening as I was leaving the ashram I heard "Sai Ram" and a
young man popped in front of me. I recognized him immediately
although he had shot up tall as a beanstalk and matured
considerably since 2003. The young man was Rajiv Adatia, I had the
pleasure of meeting him in 2003, during my 6 month trip to Baba.
He was introduced to me by a member of the Texas group. This young
man has had numerous amazing experiences with Lord Sai. Swami has
given him many interviews, and empowered him with a special vessel
that fills up with vibhuti every time it is emptied. Baba has
manifested himself in London where he resides and his house has
become a mandir with vibhuti manifestations everywhere. Swami has
blessed his website.
http://www.anandanilayam.co.uk/MainHTML/Home.asp
and in a 2003 interview has told him He is pleased with the work
he is doing, his mission is to help the youth to develop faith in
God.
Rajiv and I chatted briefly and then I asked him if we could meet
later, he said that he was leaving tomorrow. So I said perhaps
another time and then we said goodbye. Then immediately after that
I ran into my friend Margot a long time Parthi resident and my
friend Jalpa. I related what had just happened and they became
excited and wanted to meet Rajiv. I said well I don't know where
he is right now, a few seconds later Rajiv passed us on the
street. I asked him if we could come right now and have satsangh,
he graciously agreed.
Margot and Jalpa told me that they were just going to offer
coconuts and garlands to Ganesha, we all went and offered our
divine pranams at the feet of Lord Ganesh and then went for a
lovely satsangh with Rajiv and his cousin.
Rajiv showed us a dazzling green ring Swami had materialized for
him recently on the Darshan line. He spoke for a considerable time
on the events of his remarkable life which if you are interested
are available on his website.
He also mentioned in his narration that Swami had told him at age
21 his third eye would open and touched that area in an interview.
I asked Rajiv what was his age now. He said he turned 21 this past
May.
It was an exciting and uplifting satsangh a really beautiful gift
from the Lord of the Universe. Well my kind friends the hour grows
late, more bliss later.
Lots of Prema
sonya ki
Courtesy: Saibabanews 16.09.2007
Sai Ganesh
Sai Ram Embodiments of Pure Existence, Awareness and Bliss
It's Ganesh morning in Prashanti. Outside my window I can hear the
sacreds sounds of nagasankirtan cleansing the atmosphere.The local
population of Parthi throng the streets, singing, chanting and
praising the many names of God. I marvel at the spiritual vigor of
the citizens of this holy land, Bharat. It is no wonder that God,
himself, takes birth here time and time again throughout the ages.
As I enter the Mandir and sit to wait for our beloved Baba. The
shining faces of devotees from every crook and cranny of our
planet sit packed from beautifully adorned pillar to post.
Hours go by, it's 9AM and still no sign of Bhagavan, the crowds
are growing anxious and restless, some have even nodded off
waiting for Swami's wonder filled form.
Finally there is a stir of excitement emanating from Swami's
residence. Our Lord of the Universe ascends His car chariot. As
Swami enters the Mandir, brilliant reflections from the
multicolored streamers and decorations dangling from the Mandir
ceiling, danced across His silver vehicle like thousands of
jewelled garlands.
Sai Avatar, resembling iridescent moonlight waves rippling across
the ocean, moves gently and tenderly across the sea of devotees.
Shiva Sai orbits the Mandir and ascends the podium. He goes inside
briefly, then comes and sits at the front of the veranda allowing
us to sip deeply, the nectar of His presence.
The students present a lovely musical programme and some other
special offerings to Baba. As the music and ecstasy reaches a
crescendo, our Loving God, the crest jewel of Krishna's crown,
blazes forth like the sun in all it's glory bathing us in
unalloyed bliss.
At the close of morning darshan, Swami raises His right hand in
Divine Blessings on this most auspicious day. As Swami's car exits
the Mandir golden reflections of the crystal chandeliers quietly
mirror the beauty and splendor of the moment. More bliss later.
HAPPY GANESH DAY.
Lots of Bliss, Shanti and Prema
sonya ki
Courtesy: Saibabanews 15.09.2007
Sai Enigma
Sai Ram magnificent embodiments of Baba
Our Lord has been playing hide and seek this week. Three times
this week He skipped Morning Darshan. Yesterday afternoon Darshan
was lovely. He sat out on the veranda, and showered us all with
the blessed rays of His Love. Again, He materialized a gold chain
for one of the students. I had an extremely good view from the
island spot near the veranda even though I had a distant token,
Swami managed to bring me close enough to witness this.
This afternoon Darshan, we were all on the verge of a stroke,
thinking He wasn't coming out.
Bhajans had already started before He came in His vehicle
answering all our fervent prayers.
Baba roamed around the veranda and thru the Bhajan Hall, then sat
out on the veranda allowing full view of His exquisite form. The
holy music of bhajans mingling with the refreshing sound of rain
pouring down outside the Mandir.
There is usually a daily lecture in the ashram, different speakers
for each day. On Fridays, Mr. Ventakesh gives the talk, I sat for
his lecture this morning. There was one point during the lecture
where He discussed the recent Lingam Swami materialized.
Interestingly, I had been asked to confirm the fact that Bhagavan
did indeed swallow that Lingam and was wondering who to ask. Mr.
Ventakesh solved this problem completely. Swami did swallow the
lingam. He said so many people have been asking him, why did Swami
eat the Lingam. Mr. Ventakesh went on to say that Sai Avatar has
said that He is the Lingam.
He also said we should not try to analyze Swami's leelas just
enjoy Him.
Yesterday we enjoyed my house puja. The priest was very thorough
and had a very sweet aura, we really felt Swami's presence during
the prayers. After the blessing we distributed packets of food to
the poor, it was a very elevating and happy day.
Tomorrow is Ganesh day, and will get a very early start, so off to
bed. More bliss later.
Lots of Prema
sonya ki
Courtesy: Saibabanews 14.09.2007
Sai Leela
Sai Ram precious embodiments of Lord Sai
First, I want to thank everyone who was so kind to send me the
lyrics to the Sri Ragunandana bhajan, it has been a big help for
my sadhana.
Today our Lord came in His silver vehicle for both morning and
afternoon Darshan. This afternoon He came me a good token # 2,
after having a few distant tokens for past few Darshans.
I was seated along the main aisle, His face turned in our
direction, with a gentle, cool moonlight gaze. Swami circled the
Mandir, and went onto the veranda. A little later He came out and
sat in front of the students, blessing plates they were offering
Him and throwing rice on their heads, He materialized a gold chain
and pendent for one boy, I had a good view as the chain emerged
from His Divine hand.
Later Swami went inside for interviews and Sai business.
I am getting read for my house puja tomorrow. It has been very
exciting time, decorating and preparing the apartment for puja and
satsangh. I would like to share a cute little leela with you:
While fixing the altar in my flat. I bought some spiritual items
and also needed a chair for Swami. Since the space for the altar
is somewhat limited, instead of a normal sized chair for Baba I
thought a children's chair would be nice and compact, with a
beautiful covering over it. I joked with the salesman that Swami
is small anyway, He shouldn't mind, he agreed and said "yes He is
lightweight."
I also had on my altar a very tiny Baba throne, those red, wooden
ones you can buy for 25 rupees, with little padukas. Today when I
was cleaning up I had to move the altar items quickly, since time
was runnning late, and it was nearing Darshan time. I had placed
the little Baba throne on my bed, forgetting it was there, I
accidentally sat on it and heard a little crack from my weight.
Immediately, I felt this was Baba showing me that the little child
chair I had bought for Him was too small for Him.
While sitting in Darshan I said mentally, Swami if you want me to
exchange that child's chair for a normal sized chair, give me some
indication, maybe look in my direction, or, the thought flashed
perhaps a bhajan that I sing often, then I said well maybe that's
too hard, I'll just settle for a sweet look.
Right after these musings, the bhajan "Om Shivaya, Om Shivaya"
resonated thru the Mandir, this was a bhajan I had sang often at
the Sai centers in USA.
I felt for sure now that I had to exchange the chair. But in
addition to this lovely acknowledgement, after exiting the Mandir,
I could see Swami alighting from His car, He looked in our
direction and raised His Holy Hand in Blessing!!
What joy! What wonder! our dearest Swami hears and responds to our
every wish, as one devotee put it, "We are all really His
children," yes and He loves us with the Love of a thousand Moms
and Dads. Well, big day tomorrow, more Bliss later.
Lots of Prema
sonya ki
Courtesy: Saibabanews 13.09.2007
Sai Chalice of Bliss
Sai Ram embodiments of Ananda
"Man exchanges the chalice of Bliss for a mouthful of dust" ~Sri
Sathya Sai Baba
This morning our beloved Bhagavan allowed us to sip deeply from
the calyx of His Holy nectar. Blessing us with chair darshan, He
flowed into the mandir. I was seated on the main aisle after
receiving a very good token #3. He came directly in front of us ,
stopped and talked to a women in the first line. Then I saw His
Divine right hand orbit the atmosphere, extracting vibhuti from an
invisible, ethereal source. Again that wonderful fragrance
pervaded the air and we breathed in it's beauty and splendor.
He then gifted the vibhuti to that woman and turned and gave some
to the woman next to her; (funny, I was just musing the other day
on how He used to give vibhuti to several people instead of just
one as He has been doing)
Swami continued circling the Mandir offering us all the sacred
prasadam of His Presence. He also walked into the inner sanctuary
for Bhajans, allowing full bliss of His form.
I have been singing the bliss of Rama's name, repeating the bhajan,
"Sri Raghunandana Dasaratha nandana ~" I am not sure of all the
words to this bhajan and would appreciate someone sending it to
me, if possible.
Then yesterday afternoon Darshan our Lord of Prashanti, sat
outside briefly with us and roamed around the veranda before going
inside for bhajans. I was thrilled when that same exact bhajan
resonated thru the Mandir, our Baba hears and fulfills! I have to
dash for an appointment now. More bliss later.
Lots of Premananda
sonya ki
Courtesy: Saibabanews 08.09.2007
Sent by a Dear Sai
Brother in Prasanthi Nilayam :
Krishna Jayanthi - Morning :
Today morning was the celebration of the birth of the charming and
sweet Lord - Sri Krishna. The music boys of the University had got
ready with a programme. There was also the cow procession that had
been scheduled. Swami, coincidentally, arrived exactly as the cow
procession reached the Gopuram gate. Swami came in the car and as
He neared the marble block area, He stopped to look at His
devotees from the animal kingdom, so to say!! He was dressed in
bright yellow and looked as sweet as ever. Leading the procession
was Krishna Geeta, the new baby elephant. She had been decorated
and looked like a miniature of Sai Gita. Swami said that He would
get down near the animals. There was an anticipatory smile as He
got down. He first fed bananas to Krishna Geeta who wolfed down
everything very hungrily. First she came straight to Swami and
making a customary salute, began to eat out of His hands. But soon
she was attracted to the trays laden with fruits and her trunk
went towards them more than towards Swami's hands. All observers
tried to push her towards Swami, but it was a bit difficult. Swami
just smiled seeing what she was doing.
God is such a fulfilling and elevating goal in life - in fact the
only goal worth having. When we see God in all majesty, we are so
overcome and rush straight to Him. Still however, the veil seems
to lie so thick over us, that giving up the nourishment at His
Divine hands, we hanker and clamour after the loads of "fruits"
the world has to offer for us!! And the Lord just smiles. Animals
have no discrimination, but what about us?
Swami then went ahead and started to feed the cows that had
gathered. He didn't seem to mind the copious saliva from the cows
that fell on His robe and hands. He went through feeding bananas
to all. He also blessed the deer at the end. All the staff members
at the Sri Sathya Sai Gokulam came to Him and offered roses and
sought blessings. Swami blessed all and gave padanamaskar to some.
Then as He went towards the stage, He once again blessed the
elephant. Swami gently dipped His delicate hands into a bowl of
water and wiped His hands dry. Aarthi was taken and Swami went to
the stage. There two boys took white doves. Like He always does to
anybody who comes into contact with Him, He "released" the doves
to their "freedom". And just like anybody who has been "touched"
by Him does, the doves returned and sat in front of Him on the
railings facing Him. There were smiles everywhere and a burst of
applause too.
Swami called Mr.S.V.Giri and told him to announce that the morning
session was now over and that the programme in the evening would
begin at 4:00pm. That being done, Swami received Aarthi and
retired for the morning.
Krishna Jayanthi - Evening Programme :
The evening appeared to be a long one. Swami came in the car. The
Institute Brass band had come dressed up as Gopalas. They had a
programme unscheduled originally but scheduled by His Grace!!
Swami completed darshan rounds and sat on stage. The band
programme began. It was innovative in the sense that it aimed at
depicting the birth and childhood of Lord Krishna through small
skits in the foreground as the band played in the background. They
played the piece, "the Tempest" to depict Krishna's journey to
Nanda Gokulam. Then they played two more bhajans to show the
rejoicing at His birth and thye subsequent butter leelas. Our dear
Sai Krishna too had some plans of His own. He told the boys to
stop the programme. Then He asked the drama scheduled to begin.
The drama was in Telugu and revolved around a lad Sri Hari who is
called Anna by all in the locality where he polishes the shoes of
school children. The father of one of the students condemns Hari
and tells him that he better not associate with his son. what
follows next are scenes where Sri Hari teaches profound lessons in
humility and 'in'dependence as he reveals how Sathya Sai Baba with
the gift of a tricycle and the spiritual gifts of faith and self
confidence, has made him whatever he is today. The play was
interspersed with dances to highlight the theme and these were
very tastefully choreographed. Swami blessed all the participants
with Abhayahasta at the end of the play and said that He was very
happy.
Then came a bolt from the Saffron shall we say! Swami asked for
the discourse table to be brought out. He then rose to speak and
there was excited applause at this unexpected shower of Love!
The Divine Krishnastami Discourse:
Sathya (Truth) alone is responsible for the creation, sustenance
and mergence of the whole universe. It is all pervasive. It is the
Shuddha Satwa (Pure Principle). It is like the pure golden linga
that Swami often takes out during Sivarathri. (Waves His hand and
shows a golden linga for all to see and there is applause.) All
the forms here also are manifestations of that pure principle
itself. That came as Vishnu in the Krita Yuga, as Rama in the
Treta and as Krishna in the Dwapara. Seeta always had one pointed
attention on Rama. She kept seeing the one in all beings and had
Rama in her thoughts always. For her, except Rama there was
nothing else in the world. That oneness is the Suvarna (gold).
Gold has 24 carats and then alone is it Poornam (complete). It was
during the times of Morarji Desai that 14 carat gold too came into
existence and thus the gold value diluted. God has 16 aspects and
then alone it is the Poorna Tatwam . Others do not have these 16
aspects. In Dwapara yuga, none recognised Krishna's divinity. He
was barely 7 when he did the leelas with the gopikas. It was like
playing with one's mother but people criticize him telling that he
went after women. He is the ideal. Krishna was the ideal man in
Dwapara yuga while Seeta was the ideal woman in Treta yuga.
God incarnates for the
sake of devotees and to set man's mind right. In Dwapara, Kuchela
was a poor brahmin but was always immersed in the thoughts of the
Lord. His children kept asking him for food as they were hungry.
But he always kept his faith and sang out, "Vaacham gocharundani."
( You are beyond all word and description. You protected Pandavas
, satisfied Kuchela and even Kubera.) Krishna and Rama are the
only two avatars accompanied by women. No other avatar has been
so. But God is always One and has no second.
Dasharatha is one who has ten senses. He has three wives, Kausalya,
Sumitra and Kaikeyi. The children were Rama, Bharata, Lakshmana
and Shatrughna with Rama's sister, Shanta. Dasharatha did not get
a child from Kausalya and so he married Sumitra. In those days one
had to take the permission of the other wife before remarrying. So
when he asked Kausalya, she said, "Go ahead by all means. It is
necessary to have an heir to the throne." And so he wedded Sumitra.
Sumitra means a good friend and she was a good friend to all. When
there were no children, with the permission of both the wives, he
married Kaikeyi. She was from Kashmir. She put a condition,"
Since you are marrying me to get an heir to the throne, promise me
that my child alone will be the heir to the throne." He promised
her. There were no children again. And so the Putrakaameshti yagna
was done. The pudding that emerged from that was distributed to
the three wives.
Sumitra was heart broken. Kausalya's child will have right over
the throne by the virtue of she being the senior most queen and
Kaikeyi's child too will have a right as she has elicited a
promise. What about mine??" Thus lamenting, she went to the
terrace to dry her hair with smoke. Those days there were no
electric fans or hair dryers! As she was doing that, an eagle came
and took away her share of the pudding. It carried it to the hills
where Anjana Devi was praying. She partook it and gave birth to
Hanuman! Sumitra then went to her co-sisters. They both then gave
her a part of their pudding. Thus the children were born.
Lakshmana,born out of Kausalya's part was always attracted to Rama
and Shatrughna was attracted to Bharata.
Even when it was so, while passing through the forest once,
Lakshmana began to scold Rama as to why they alone had to suffer
for no fault of theirs? That was because of that place being the
home of many demons. Once they moved out of that place, Rama
lovingly explained that to him. That is why one must always keep
good company. The three of them settled in the beautiful forest.
The Sarayu river too was nearby. At that time Sita saw the golden
deer. After having renounced all the pleasures of Ayodhya, was she
the one to run after the deer? No. It was all part of a plan. it
also shows that if you go after Kama (desire), you will move away
from Rama (God). That is why, less luggage, more comfort makes
travel a pleasure. Lakshmana faithfully guarded her till she
taunted him and flung insults at him at not going to Rama's aid.
He drew a line and advising her not to cross it, left. ButRavana
in the guise of a begging mendicant, kidnapped her.
In the war on Lanka, Lakshmana fainted. Hanuman went and instead
of a single plant, got the whole mountain! As he was fling over
Ayodhya, Bharata saw him and wondered, "Who is this flying
monkey?" When Hanuman came down and related all details, even
Sumitra and Mrs.Lakshmana, Urmila were also present. The noble
Sumitra said, "If Lakshmana has fallen, then take my other son
there. Rama will take care of everything I know. I am so happy
that my son is of service to Rama." That was their nobility!
Finally with the killing of Indrajit, the war almost came to a
close. Vibheeshana told Rama that the secret to kill Ravana was to
shoot at his thumb. The fatal arrow brought a lot of joy to the
monkeys. They all began to jump up to have a glimpse of Sita. Rama
told that they must all fetch firewood. Sita had to undergo the
trial by fire. The Lord of the fire himself came and testified to
Rama that Sita was pure. He said, "Oh Rama! You are all knowing.
Do you not know about the purity of Mother Sita?" Rama replied, "I
never doubted her chastity but I wanted to prove to the world what
an ideal woman she is." At this all the monkeys applauded. (The
whole Kulwant hall also applauded!!) When Rama returned to Ayodhya,
all the people sang joyously - Rama Kodanda Rama. (At this point
Swami sang the whole song and there was a very energetic following
for the bhajan. )
Rama, Krishna, Sai Rama, Sai Krishna - all are one and the same.
Take any name. The Ramayana is a very sacred story. What I
narrated now is true - all other versions have a lot of
imagination too. Sing bhajans.
After the discourse, bhajans continued. Swami blessed prasadam for
all. Then after a while, as He sat, He took the lingam in His left
hand. Then, He slowly put it into His mouth and sipped water.
After a short while, He turned to those seated near and said, "It
has gone back in." Then He want to the car and retired for the
day.
The Whole Day was a Divine Celebration of the Glory of the Divine
Lord - Sai Krishna
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy:
KM 07.09.2007
Recent Updates from
Prashanti Nilayam, sent by a Devotee
31st August Update
For the past two days, a banner heralding the Conference of all
the office bearers of Sri Sathya Sai Organisations in India has
been fluttering in the mandir premises. Half a dozen plasma tvs
have been set up to act as add ons for the presentations to be
made. But somehow, the conference has not yet been held at the
Mandir in Swami's presence though the office bearers have met and
achieved some constructive and fruitful ends.
Today afternoon, once again, Swami came out on the wheel sofa. But
He was not accepting any letters. To any person who stretched out
a letter, Swami just signaled for them to keep it. He was a
picture of contentment just looking at everyone. He completed the
ladies side and as He was among the boys, there were many eager
beavers trying to give letters. Swami continued with the gentle
signals and gentler smiles.
For once, let us trade places with Swami and occupy the wheel
sofa!! As we come out every morning and every afternoon, there are
a thousands of people waiting to relate their psychological
problems, medical ailments, financial difficulties, relationship
mismatches and yes, some are present even to offer their gratitude
for favours received, to express their Love for Him. We are in
that position where, by just reading all the correspondence
received daily, we would have read almost every word that exists
in a dictionary, and that too not the English one alone but many
other languages too! And then, we are expected to smile as we
receive yet another letter!!
But wait a minute, God is not supposed to be affected by the
fatigue and ennui that affect us mere mortals right? Correct, but
then God does not need to be informed of everything like mere
mortals right? He knows everything. Well the problem arises if we
make someone God for some reasons and mortal for others!! And as
the famous episode goes, Swami told the genial Prof. Anil Kumar,
"So many want to give letters to me." The professor replied,
"Swami maybe they have some emergency and so they want to give
letters to you." Swami quipped, "Once anyone comes to me, will
they ever have an emergency?" When we write to Him, it is only for
our satisfaction that He receives the correspondence and not out
of His need to stay informed and there is no theorem or axiom that
says that problems presented to Him on paper are faster resolved
than those presented via prayer!
Swami completed the gents side too and then went into the Mandir
portico. He took a round there also granting darshan. Then He came
out and sat on the gents side of the stage. None had guessed that
Swami had planned something grand. He called the co-ordinators of
the Office Bearers' Meet and presented them with His robes. So
many devotees the world over send robes to Swami as offerings of
their Love and gratitude. Swami was now offering them back to His
devotees as a sign of His Love and Grace. What happened next was
truly special. Swami said that He would personally give robes to
all the 500+ devotees who had gathered for the conference! There
was so much excitement and joy!
All of them began coming to Swami in an orderly line. Up front,
Swami continued to present them with robes. Many offered letters
(!) to Swami which He now accepted. A few of them broke down in
gratefulness and made no secret of their dedication and Love for
Him. Swami sat thus distributing robes from 4:10pm when He sat
outside, till about 5:00pm. Midway through, the organisers felt
that they were tiring Swami and they even suggested that Swami
could stop and just direct the distribution. But Swami continued.
He appeared tiring, but the smile never faded. How does 50 minutes
of continuously giving affect someone who has been doing it for
the last 80 years!!
After the distribution, Swami went into the interview room.
Bhajans began as scheduled and at about 5:35pm, Swami received
Aarthi and left.
Sunday 2nd September 2007
In the morning all the students who have been students of Swami
and presently serving in various capacities in His institutions
were assembled in the Prayer Hall. There was an atmosphere of Joy
and every face was shining. Swami came for darshan at 7.55 and
came inside the bhajan hall. He asked why were all seated inside
when the programme was outside.
A teacher said "Swami the
programme outside is in the evening. Elders will be speaking.
Swami should please speak to us." Swami then went on the wheel
chair to where the lamp was and lit it. He also cut the cake. He
then came and sat and asked,"What news?". and calling the co
ordinator asked what the program was. There were some songs that
had been prepared and Swami listened to them. One could see that
He was very relaxed and enjoying the songs. One person from those
who had assembled would come at the beginning of each song and
give Swami a flower and a sheet of paper on which the songs were
written. Swami received these and went through the lyrics as they
were sung or closed His eyes enjoying the song and the full
throated singing. Swami asked it to be announced that there would
be a public meeting at 4pm in the Sai Kulwant Hall in connection
with the Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust's 35th anniversary in the
Divine presence of Bhagavan. The announcement was repeated in
Telugu also by a member of the Book Trust and Swami smiled when
the announcement was completed. He asked, "Did you not eat any
breakfast? So weak voice!!"
Swami then asked what was next. Two speakers were to speak. And so
Mr. Ruchir Desai, a lecturer at Brindavan campus, came forward and
spoke. He spoke of our gratitude to Swami and said "Why is one
grateful to the Sun?..is it because it rises everyday bringing
light and joy to the world ? or because of it the bees and birds
sing or we get the warmth .. these and many more and so then what
to speak of the one who has put the sun in place- our Lord?" The
speech was very apt and at the end Swami rewarded him with a smile
and a pat on the head.
It was next the turn of
Mr. Satish Babu to speak. He spoke his heart out and narrated
incidents . One of these was about a student who was sick and so
he gave him a set of instructions like - be careful about what you
eat. Do not go out and play and many such things. The student
agreed to follow all these instructions except the one in which he
was asked to pray to Swami. No I will not do that as He will cure
me instantly but He will Himself suffer the illness. Such pure
thoughts can only come even to such small children by the
blessings of Swami. Another incident was about how one day he was
told of a sick boy and being busy went off for darshan forgetting
to attend to the boy. Waiting for the darshan he suddenly
remembered the student and was torn between his desire for darshan
and the call of duty but convincing himself that it was the lord
who was actually looking after everyone he sent a prayer to Swami
to look after the small student. When he returned from darshan the
small boy came up to him and thanked him as he had given him
medicine on time and he was now fine .. revealing that it was
indeed the Lord who is the doer. Swami was also very touched with
his speech. He blessed him with a Padanamaskar and a pat.
After this Swami reminded us that there were two songs and asked
us to sing them. So they sang 'O maa, O maa' and "why fear when I
am here."
Swami then asked how many boys were there and when the reply came
as 155 boys, He smiled and said "anthe na." (Is that all?).
Swami then asked Subramaniam ( research scholar) what he was
doing. Swami then asked Praveen "Nuve kada America Poyindi?" (Was
it not you who went to America?) "Yes Swami" was the reply.
Swami: What did you do?
Praveen: I did hospital management swami
S: What are you doing now?
P: Administration work in Bangalore hospital swami people are not
able to believe that we are doing free surgeries in our hospital
swami
S: We are not doing for them to believe...we are doing it for our
happiness
P: In our hospital we are able to do operations which even big
hospitals are not able to do Swami. Even hospitals like Nimhans
send patients to us.
S: They don't send for that sake. they send because we are doing
free operations
P: We do all kinds of complicated surgeries swami
S: How many doctors are there?
P: 60 doctors swami. Doctors who are less qualified than Dr. Hegde
himself are offered 5 crores outside swami, even Dr. Hegde got so
many offers, he rejected all of them saying he wants to work in
swamis hospital.
S: Money has no value….
P: Yes swami money has no value
S: Money has value but the people who take it lose their value
P: Swami in our hospital we perform 8 brain surgeries each day
S: How many heart surgeries?
P: 6-8 swami, Angioplasty etc are 20 per day swami
S: Those are small. Who does them?
P: Dr. Das swami
S: Oh Orissa man
P: He is also getting so many offers swami. But he also tells that
he is born to do only swamis service. In one of the fields of
brain surgeries called Aneurisms our hospital is world no 1. One
of the boys doing P.hd in our hospital also got all India gold
medal swami.
S: chaala manchidi (Very good)
P: People who study here and go out are taking care of patients
very well Swami. From our hospital one Mr. Keshava Murthy joined
Apollo hospital, they were ready to pay him a huge amount, but he
said to give that to poor patients
S: That is not Apollo hospital it is appulu (debts) hospital..If
you get admitted there you have to incur debt.
P: Many foreign doctors are also are wanting to come and join here
Swami.
S: If they are good give permission. If they are not good and then
they spoil our name, don't give the permission.
P: Seeing that the facilities in our hospital are good, they want
us to start courses so that they can learn here and earn outside.
Outside each MRI costs 10000 Rs and X-Ray 500 Rs. And we do 20
MRIs per day Swami.
S: Money earned like that wont stay
P: Both our hospitals in Parthi are doing so much work Swami.
Swami is doing what govts are not able to do.
S: Government does not do any work
Student: Politicians just come for votes and promise that we will
give gas stove, tv etc.
S: They give only GAS (we all laugh)
P: Because of Swami's water project so many could benefit.
S: Yes in Chennai small children were drinking dirty water and
spoiling their health (there were tears in Swamis eyes). Now they
are getting good drinking water.
In Redhills there is lot of wastage due to the mud there. We told
Karunanidhi to tell us when it is dry and that we would do
desilting. We have put polymer there in order to curb wastage. You
may believe it or not every Monday I sign cheques for distribution
towards various projects. Kondal Rao and L&T Ramakrishna take good
care and do these works without bothering about rain and sun.
That's why I gave each of them one car. I gave Chakravarthy also
one car so that he can go round and see that every thing is
alright.
P: Swami all our students are getting a good name outside
S: Yes before it was not like this but now they are good. They all
came with their wives and children in aeroplane. They say that
they get peace only here.
When the conversation
turned to the music college and it was mentioned that " Swami our
music college boys sing well…Swami interrupted and said "they sing
well but are always scared as to when they may fall!" provoking
laughter. (It was a lovely pun reminding all of us that we need to
not only ensure class in our talents.. singing or whatever it is
but also our behaviour).
Aravind of Super Hospital Bangalore asked "Swami please give us
all a message on this occasion." Swami said "Chese pani tho trupti
padandi.. atla unte ne repu thanni baga cheyyochu." (Be happy with
whatever work you are doing and don't think that you are doing for
some one else then only you can be happy.) Mamaivaamso jeeva loke
jeeve boothasanathanaha.
They expressed our gratitude to Swami that He had blessed us with
the opportunity to serve Him.. Swami said smiling," Meerandaru
cheyyagalaru. thani valla ne meeku ee avakasam icchanu… andariki
istunaana?" (I know that you are all capable of discharging your
responsibilities. That is why I gave you this opportunity. Do I
give it to everyone?)
It was already about to be
10 o clock and Swami asked for the Aarathi. He Himself lit the
camphor, and blessed the basins of sweet prasadam which boys
showed to Him. When boys asked for group photos and paada namaskar,
Swami said, "I will give it to you in the evening."
In the afternoon, Swami came out at 4:00 pm. He had said in the
morning that 4:30 onwards would be the Rahukaalam. All the
students working in various places in the Central Trust (CT) had
assembled by 2:30 pm itself. Swami went directly on stage and took
His seat in the centre. Four respected seniors working for Swami
were part of the panel to discuss on the role of Sai Institutions
in transforming lives. They were, the All India President,
Mr.V.Srinivasan, the Secretary of the CT, Mr.Chakravarthi, the
former vice chancellors, Mr.S.V.Giri and Mr.G.Venkatraman. First
there was an introductory speech by Mr.Rameshwar Prusty. He gave a
brief outline of the formation and functioning of the CT. There
were two speeches by Mr.Sudheendran and Dr.T.Ravikumar.
Sudheendran with the aid of the vedic lore narrated experiences as
to how Swami had come to become God for him and how he had slowly
but surely shaped and moulded him.
The second speaker said that though he had lost his mother at a
very tender age, he never felt the lack of a mother's love in his
life. He narrated his experiences where Swami had shown him that
Loving him meant more to Him than anything else. Being deeply
touched by His love, he spoke with that conviction and his
emotions slowly percolated the fibre of every listener till the
whole of the third block seemed to be in deep emotion of
gratitude. The for elder speakers spoke on the various ways in
which Swami was inspiring every Trust and every member with His
Love and His example. After them, though it was 5:35pm, Swami rose
to speak.
The Divine Discourse-
Embodiments of Love,
Our students have sacred hearts, pure minds, selflessness and
innocence. A few of them may commit mistakes but they correct it
on their own. Therefore students are our Central Trust. They do
all the work. The elders are there as elders alone and the
students take care of everything. Sometimes however, elders commit
mistakes due to the students. Students are not to be considered as
small children. In fact, I stood up not to talk to you but to
describe the glory of their selflessness. The work done by them is
really wonderful and unique. These students are the future support
of the Central Trust (CT) also. The CT fully depends on them.
There are students working day in and day out. One cannot single
out who are those and specifically name them. All work very hard.
None can describe their abilities. So students, you should put the
CT on the proper path and show the ideal to the world by being
leaders. The Ct will progress because of you; the future depends
on you.
Not only the money here but all the Pani (work) too is yours.
Outside everywhere it is only money, money and money. Money comes
and goes, morality comes and grows. Your morality makes your
status high. So uphold the morality. Being human, we have our
imaginations and expectations. But these are all to be considered
as illusions. They are not permanent but like passing clouds. Do
not submit to them and be victims of your imagination. For the
purpose of keeping up the character, all other forces must be
resisted and all other things be cast aside. Dear students, your
effulgence, your future and your work must all be ideal and then
alone will the world emulate you. Science has advanced into "Trick
Knowledge" instead of Technology these days. Only the feelings
that arise from your heart are True and Permanent. Discriminate
between Truth and Untruth. All the unnecessary things must be cast
aside.
Spend all time in sacred duties. How many students are there
working in CT? (Answer comes as 155.) All come and sit in the
front. (Swami tells the boys behind Him to go in and get watches
for all) Sanctify the time, utilize it properly and achieve a good
name. not only the CT, other Trusts too depend on you. But do not
depend on any Trust. Have Self-Dependence. Atmashakti must be the
basis for that. Have self confidence and that will confer
everything on you. Faith gives you power. It is responsible for
the flow of Love. No Faith- No Love. Only out of Love can anything
be achieved, big or small. Faith and Love are the two eyes without
which one is blinded. Truth is God. Love is God. Live in Love.
Truth and Love are the two feet on which I walk on. I achieve
everything with this confidence.
The British promised drinking water to Madras but faltered on it.
I sanctioned it immediately. You may not believe it, but every
Monday, I sign cheques . Chakravarthi knows about this. It is his
job to distribute it. Swami can do everything but some help is
needed. I have kept some as Trust members and through them I send
the cheques. For Madras, the Godavari water was not enough. So
water from the Krishna was diverted via Bhadrachalam and through
taps has reached every hut. Every child says there, "Sai Baba has
given us nectar!" But for that I never extended my hand even for a
naya paisa. You all know that if Swami asks, so many are ready to
give. But I never desire for anything from anyone. My Will is the
power.
Never worry about money. It is the virtues that are more
important. Have Love and with that anything can be attained. Never
expect anything from anyone. Love will supply everything like a
current. Dont worry for anything. That Love will give everything.
Never tread the wrong path. Do not utter untruth. Don't resort to
injustice. Don't be intolerant. Sahana (Tolerance) is of utmost
importance. Bharatitas have everything but only lack in Unity.
Unity leads to Purity and then to Divinity. When that Unity Love
exists, all desires are automatically satiated.
Never feel bad that Swami is not talking to you or spending time
with you. My mind is always on you children. Without you I cannot
exist. when you exist I exist and when I exist you exist. I and
you are one. With that feeling, do your work happily.
Swami then out of supreme Love personally gave each of the 155
students a beautiful wrist watch. It was a beautiful sight to see
the Mother blessing her children in spite of the time being so
late. Till about 6:15 Swami distributed watches. He also
personally gave prasadam to many of the students. After that, Mr.
Harishankar delivered the vote of thanks. Swami then received
Aarthi and left.
Courtesy: Saibabanews -
08.09.2007
Sri Krishnastami Divine
Discourse - Excerpts
Sathyambu nandude sarvambu shrustinche,
Sathyambu nandanage sarva shrusti
Sathyambu nandanage sarva shrusti
Sathya mahima leni stalamedi kanugonna sudha satwa midiye
choodarayya
Meaning :
Every thing is born out of truth
Each and Everything Merges in God
There is no place without truth, Every thing in this world is born
out of truth
Truth is all pervasive. Truth is present in every one of us, Truth
is one and not two.
All the Swarna lingams(Golden lingams) that I manifest are the
Truth.
At this time Swami's Right Hand rose a little and after Two Divine
little circular motions, there emerged a Brilliant, Wonderful and
a Most Dazzling Golden lingam Which was almost Thrice the size of
a normal egg. Everyone folded their Hands in Namaskar.
Swami then Continued as everyone were still keeping their Eyes
fixed on the Golden Lingam:
This is the Divine Truth, Depending on the time, The Divine
Paramatma has been manifesting in Human form to teach this Divine
Truth. In the Krita Yuga it was Lord Vishnu. In the Treta yuga it
was Lord Rama and in Dwapara yuga it was Lord Krishna who came in
human form in this world to correct the whole of Mankind.
Many still do not understand the Divine Avatar like many
misunderstood and to this day misunderstand the love of Lord
Krishna, They think He was after Gopikas all the time.. How many
of you know the age of Lord Krishna when He was performing leelas
with Gopikas? Only 7 years old.. Many of the Gopikas were much
much elder to Him. They all enjoyed Krishna's Divine company and
so did Krishna. That is what is meant by Pure and Divine Love.
Krishna had more than 16000 Gopikas with Him. The role of
Sathyabhama was also a Very Significant one. Krishna wanted to
tell the world how devoted she was and thats why she had to come
into His life.
Rama was also another avatar who always adhered to truth, Rama
always stood for Truth and Love. Dasaratha was also a very Devoted
man. What is Dasaratha. The one with 10 chariots. He had 10
senses. Kausalya was his first wife. As she didn't conceive
Dasaratha decided to marry another queen. In those days, the
husband used to take permission from the wife to marry someone
else. Kausalya was a noble and pious lady. She gave permission and
thus Sumitra came into Dasaratha's life. Su- Mitra (a good
friend).. As the name, she was a very friendly person. There is
very less mentioned Ramayana about her. There are no words to
describe her devotion.
Dasaratha then decided to marry Kaikeyi. Kaikeyi was the daughter
of King Kaika, the present Kashmir. Since the king already had 2
wives, Kaikeyi's father had second thoughts about the marriage. He
put one condition to Dasaratha. Since you are marrying my daughter
for a heir to your kingdom " I will give my daughter in marriage
in one condition. You should give your kingdom to the son of
Kaikeyi and not your other wives' children ".The king after due
consultation with his queens agreed to the condition. Dasartha
along with his three wives performed Putra kamisti yaga. the
priests after the yagna gave Payasam(rice pudding) as prasad and
asked the three to partake the prasadam. The prasadam was divided
into three equal parts in three bowls.
In those days there were no fans or electric hair driers. So
Sumitra climbed the terrace to dry her hair. She put the bowl with
the pudding on the terrace wall and was adjusting her hair. In no
time there came a eagle and took away the bowl. Sumitra ran down
and narrated the incident to her two in-laws. In those days in
laws were not like the present day in laws. They were very
friendly and co-operative. They both contributed half share of
their pudding to Sumitra and three of them partook the prasadam.In
no time Kausalya gave birth to Rama and Kaikeyi gave birth to
Satrugna and Sumitra gave birth to Lakshmana and Bharata. Since
she had shared the pudding with both, Lakshmana was close to Rama
and BHARAT was close to Satrugna.
Sita, who married Lord Rama was woman of character. Even after
being abducted she always had Rama's name in her mind. They had to
go to exile in the forest. Greed came in the form of a golden
deer. The moment she saw the golden deer, in spite of knowing that
it just can't be a deer as there is no deer made of gold in this
universe, her mind started to ask for the deer. Lord Rama, obliged
because, that was for the first time that Sita asked for
something. Since she came all the way with Him to the forest,
setting aside all the royal comforts, Rama wanted to make her
happy. The moment she had desires, her husband went far away from
her.. In the same way THE MOMENT YOU HAVE DESIRES... GOD DISTANCES
HIMSELF FROM YOU.. Less luggage more comfort..make travel a
pleasure.
As Rama went in search of the golden deer, Lakshmana stayed with
Sita.As Rama didn't return back, Sita got worried and asked
Lakshmana to go search for Him. Lakshmana was bit hesitant to
leave her as his brother had ordered him to stay with Sita till He
returns. Not knowing what to do, Lakshmana drew a line with his
arrow (Lakshman Rekha(line)) and says to Sita not to cross the
line come what may...In no time comes the demon Ravana in the form
of a poor beggar. Sita goes inside and gets some food grains and
tries to give it to him standing within the line but the poor
priest pleads to come out and give and Sita pitying at his
condition obliges and in no time Ravana abducts Sita.
Swami then narrated how Hanuman and party helped Rama to free Sita
from Lanka and how Hanuman saved the life of Lakshmana by bringing
the Sanjeevini from the mountain .
Swami Then continued " Just to let know the whole world how pure
and true Sita was, He asked her to jump into the fire. All the
people of Ayodhya were very happy to see Lord Rama after more than
15 years of exile. They all sang and danced ( Swami then sang the
bhajan " Rama Kodanda Rama, Rama Pattabhi Rama, Rama Kalayana Rama.
A Discourse on Sri Rama on Krishnastami Day
Swami then said " Today is Krishnastami. Krishna and Rama are one
and the same.Always chant the name of Rama and it will confer you
bliss and happiness.You can achieve anything by merely chanting
His name.Where ever you are, what ever you are doing, chant His
name"
Swami then said Most Wonderfully " If you have more love for Sai,
chant Sai Rama or Sai Krishna.. Always sing the glory of the Lord
and it will give all that you want"
Thunderous Applause from every Single Devotee.
Swami then said which bought tears to everyone eyes "Am I giving
you trouble? Am I straining you?" for which there was a big NO
from the devotees.
Swami then asked the Boys to sing Bhajans while Swami Blessed the
Prasadam. Swami was watching the Prasadam Distribution and after
Being fully Satisfied with the Distribution, Bhagawan took the
Divine Mangala Aarathi at around 5.55 P.M .
A Wonderful Krishnastami for everyone.
Om Sai Ram
Courtesy:
KM - 06.09.2007
Sri Krishna
Janmasthami Darshan Update 4th Sept 2007
Offering humble pranams at the lotus feet of our beloved Lord,
Hearty Janmasthami wishes to all the Krishna devotees all over
the world... The holy birthday of Lord Krishna was celebrated
with devotion, faith and happiness. the main part of the
festival was in the afternoon where in Swami had lot to give and
make our hearts dance in the Krishna leela....
Puttaparthi witnessed yet again huge crowd about 7000 devotees
are here from Nalgonda district of Andhra Pradesh and few
thousands less from Vizag..... Swami blessed the devotees by
permitting them to perform in His immeditate presence...
As thousands were waiting for Sai Krishna,Swami out of His
immense mercy emerged from His physical abode at 3:45pm in His
dazzling orange robe.. Giving due consideration to the huge
crowd, Swami preferred to come in His Mobile throne right from
His abode, thus giving a clear view even to the last person
seated in the Sai Kulwant hall... Swami took few letters from
the ladies' side and also some in the gents side.. There was a
huge cutout in the centre of the hall signalling a probable
play..As Swami came on the dais He came directly to the center
of the stage instead of going into the interview room.
The Sri Sathya Sai University brass band was ready with their
instruments. There was a very short play on baby Krishna as the
brass band rendered two bhajans on Krishna...
Now it was the time of Nalgonda district kids to perform before
Swami... After taking blessings from Swami the play started. The
play was about a handicapped boy who with his devotion and
dedication supported his family and rendered few devotional
songs and also changes a stubborn and proud father into a noble
man.. The whole play was well written and the only draw back if
at all was the language. The play was well written but non
telugu speakers would not have understood.
Now a days very rarely
we are seeing regional language plays in Parthi...
It was 5pm by then and devotees from Nalgonda started singing
bhajans.. While the bhajan was going on the bhajan group boys
were seen bringing their instruments and after the first bhajan
the students started their bhajans.. As all the devotees were
immersed in the bhajan and just when many of us were thinking,
so there is no divine discourse today, our sweet Lord, asked the
boys to bring the discourse table... In few minutes the bhajan
stopped. After a very short visit to the interview room Swami
came out to the dais.....There was a pin drop silence in the
hall, Swami slowly sipped few drops of water from His tumbler
and slowly rose from His throne.. Prof. Anil Kumar, in no time
got next to Swami.. After a brief talk with Swami both were
ready as thousands of pairs of eyes were focused and equal
number of ears eagerly waiting for the sweet nectarine voice
Swami started His Janasthami (Krishnasthami) discourse with a
sweet verse...
Highlights from the discourse: (Based on memory... I sincerely
apologise for any grammatical mistakes) Sathyambu nandude
sarvambu shrustinche, (Every thing is born out of truth)
Sathyambu nandanage sarva shrusti (everything merges in God)
Sathya mahima leni stalamedi kanugonna sudha satwa midiye
choodarayya..There is no place without truth... and this is the
pure and unsullied truth)
Every thing in this world is born out of truth... Truth is all
pervasive. Its present in every one of us.. Truth is one and not
two. All the swarna lingams (golden lingams) I manifest are
TRUTH.. (at this stage I had a strong feeling that there would
be some manifestation because Swami started with the same verse
on the closing ceremony of youth conference and materalised
Golden lingam by waving His hands. I was very attentively
glaring at His hands and in no time.. the right hand of Swami
rose a bit and after two small circular motions emerged a
dazzling Golden lingam, twice the size of a normal egg. As all
the devotees joined their hands, Swami continued.. THIS IS THE
TRUTH....
Depending upon the time, God has been manifesting in Human form
to teach this truth.. In the Krita Yuga it was Lord Vishnu. In
Treta yuga it was Lord Rama and in Dwapara yuga it was Lord
Krishna who came in human form in this world to correct the man
kind...Many misunderstand the love of Lord Krishna.. They think
He was after Gopikas all the time.. Does any one know how old
was Krishna when He started performing leelas with Gopikas? Only
7 years old.. Many Gopikas were elder to Him. They enjoyed
Krishn'a company and so did Krishna. That is pure love. He had
more than 16000 Gopikas around Him. The role of Sathyabhama was
also a significant one. Krishna wanted to tell the world how
devoted she was and that's why she had to come into His life...
Swami then narrated about Rama and He almost narrated the entire
Ramayana in a very simple and easy way and I am sure any one who
are not acquaint with Ramayana now are aware of this holy
epic....
Rama was also another avatar who always adhered to truth.. Rama
stood for truth and love. Rama's father Dasaratha was also a
devoted man. What is Dasaratha. The one with 10 chariots. He had
10 senses. Kousalya was his first wife. As she didn't conceive
Dasaratha decided to marry another queen. In those days, the
husband used to take permission from the wife to marry someone
else. Kousalya was a noble and pious lady. She gave permission
and thus Sumitra came into Dasaratha's life. Su-Mitra (a good
friend).. As the name, she was a very friendly person. There is
very less mentioned in Ramayana about her. There are no words to
describe her devotion. Dasaratha then decided to marry Kaikeyi.
Kaikeyi was the daughter of King Kaika, the present Kashmir.
Since the king already had 2 wives, Kaikeyi's father had second
thoughts about the marriage. He put one condition to Dasaratha.
Since you are marrying my daughter for a heir to your kingdom, I
will give my daughter in marriage in one condition. You should
give your kingdom to the son of Kaikeyi and not your other
wives' children.
The king after due consultation with his queens agreed to the
condition. Dasartha along with his three wives performed Putra
kamisti yaga. the priests after the yagna gave Payasam (rice
pudding) as prasad and asked the three to partake the prasadam.
The prasadam was divided into three equal parts in three
bowls...
Swami continued.. "In those days there were no fans or electric
hair driers. So Sumitra climbed the terrace to dry her hair. She
put the bowl with the pudding on the terrace wall and was
adjusting her hair. In no time there came a eagle and took away
the bowl.
Sumitra ran down and narrated the incident to her two in-laws.
In those days in laws were not like the present day in laws.
They were very friendly and co-operative. They both contributed
half share of thier pudding to Sumitra and three of them partook
the prasadam.
In no time Kowsalya gave birth to Rama and Kaikaye gave birth to
Satrugna and Sumitra gave birth to Lakshmana and Bharata. Since
she had shared the pudding with both, Lakshmana was close to
Rama and Bharata was close to Satrugna....
Sita, who married Lord Rama was woman of character. Even after
being abducted she always had Rama's name in her mind. They had
to go to exile in the forest. Greed came in the form of a golden
deer. The moment she saw the golden deer, inspite of knowing
that it just can't be a deer as there is no deer made of gold in
this universe, her mind started to ask for the deer. Lord Rama,
obliged because, that was for the first time that Sita asked for
something. Since she came all the way with Him to the forest,
setting aside all the royal comforts, Rama wanted to make her
happy. The moment she had desires, her husband went far away
from her.. In the same way THE MOMENT YOU HAVE DESIRES... GOD
DISTANCES HIMSELF FROM YOU.. Less luggage more comfort..make
travel a pleasure.
It was more than 30 mins since Swami was speaking and now He got
back to His throne and continued "As Rama went in search of the
golden deer, Lakshmana stayed with Sita. As Rama didnt return
back, Sita got worried and asked Lakshmana to go search for Him.
Lakshmana was bit hesitant to leave her as his brother had
ordered him to stay with Sita till He returns. Not knowing what
to do, Lakshmana drew a line with his arrow (very popularly
known as Lakshman Rekha(line)) and says to Sita not to cross the
line come what may...
In no time comes the demon Ravana in the form of a poor beggar.
Sita goes inside and gets some food grains and tries to give it
to him standing within the line but the poor priest pleads to
come out and give and Sita looking at his condition obliges and
in no time Ravana abducts Sita....
Swami then narrated how Hanuman and party helped Rama to free
Sita from Lanka and how Hanuman saved the life of Lakshmana by
bringing the Sanjeevini from the mountain.. Swami
continued..Just to let know the whole world how pure and true
Sita was, He asked her to jump into the fire. All the people of
Ayodhya were very happy to see Lord Rama after more than 15
years of exile... They all sang and danced.. so saying Swami
sang the bhajan ... Rama Kodanda Rama... (Rama with the bow and
arrow) Rama Pattabhi Rama(Rama, the coronated King) Rama
Kalayana Rama... Raghava....Swami sang the whole bhajan.. .and
as I was wondering today is Krishnastami and how come a
discourse on Lord Rama.. Our Lord Sai, who is residing as ATMA
RAMA,in us continued, Today is Krishnastami.
Krishna and Rama are one
and the same... Always chant the name of Rama and it will confer
you bliss and happiness. You can achieve anything by merely
chanting His name.. Where ever you are, what ever you are doing,
chant His name..
Swami further continued, amidst loud applauds, If you have more
love for Sai, chant Sai Rama or Sai Krishna.. Always sing the
glory of the Lord and it will give all that you want... After
saying so, Swami touched everyone's heart by enquiring "Am I
giving you trouble?.. Am I straining you?" for which there was a
big NO from the devotees...
Swami then asked for Bhajans while He blessed the prasadam.
After fully satisfied with the prasad distribution, Swami asked
for Arathi around 5:50 pm... After bowing down and thanking
Swami for letting me witness yet another beautiful day of His
glory, I waited for the car to reach the Abode and then I left
the hall....
Thus ended another beautiful day of my Prasanthi dairy....
R.Satish Naik
from Kaliyuga Mathura PUTTAPARTHI.....
05.09.2007
Sai Bliss
Sai Ram Heavenly Brethren
Sai Krishna, our beautiful Swami gave us all chair darshan this
morning and also in the afternoon.
In the morning I came late, skipping token lines, but was able
to find a great seat in my favorite island location near the
veranda. About 15 minutes after bhajans began Swami glided down
the main aisle showering His Love and Grace on us all.
He circled the Mandir and skirted along the edge of the veranda
towards the Ladies section, directly facing me. He tapped His
hand in rhythm with the bhajans. I sang full throated bursting
with joy, at the same time mentally thanking Swami over and over
for the new grandson and all the precious gifts He has given. I
felt an immediate connection as His divine glance fell on me.
Oh! what elation,
indescribable bliss!
This evening Darshan, Lord Sai again granted me token #1 This
time I sat in the main section along the main aisle, I had
excellent proximity. Sweet Swami abandoned His car and much to
all of our intoxicated delight came in His chair.
He took letters from a small Italian group
to the left of me, leaving them all in tears. As I gazed upon
our Baba, I couldn't help noticing how young He looked today, He
is the veritable fountain of Youth! Once on the veranda, Baba
sat outside for a while, smiling continuously very sweetly. His
complexion was a topaz hue, with that mischievous, captivating
cupid smile.
Bhajans began and prasadam was distributed to all. More Bliss
later.
Lots of Prema
sonya ki
Courtesy:
Saibabanews- 05.09.2007
Sai Golden Krishna
Sai Ram Sai Ram Sai Krishna!!!!
I am in one zillionth heaven this very moment! Our dearest,
dearest Sai Krishna, manifested a beautiful, dazzling golden
Lingam right before our astonished eyes, while delivering His
Divine Discourse this evening.
And during His discourse my daughter gave birth to an 8 pound
baby boy, Sean Sai Hoffman!
To top all this off, I was sitting next to the exact lady
devotee, Dr. Vakula from Texas, USA, whom I sat next to in 2006,
Mahasivarathri, where we both witnessed together the emergence
of a golden lingam from the body of our most Resplendent
Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba!!!!
What an incredible day! It started with this morning's heavenly
Darshan. Amidst blaring marching bands, the procession of cow's
from the gokulum led by the Sai Githa part 2 (my friend, Jalpa's
apellation, at this point we are all confused about the darling
little elephant's actual name :))))
The dear little elephant waited patiently, as our Divine Sai
Krishna entered the Mandir in His silver car, dressed in yellow
saffron robe, glowing like the golden coins showering from
Mother Lakshmi's hands.
Swami stopped near the procession of animals coming through the
central main gate. The baby elephant bowed several times to Her
magnificent Lord. She wore a gold headdress, ivory and gold
cloth, with shimmering gold chains dangling across her body.
Swami blessed all the animals then proceeded to finish circling
the Mandir and onto the veranda, He then released 3 luminous
white doves to the cheers of crores of devotees. There was also
a sweet little fawn presented to our Baba. Swami sat immersed in
the continuous vedic chanting, a few bhajans were sang before
the priest came and performed aarthi.
The discourse began with Swami singing about truth how
everything contains the principle of truth. He talked about Rama,
and related the essence of the Ramayana to us. He spoke a little
about Krishna, but focused mostly on the Rama story. I wondered
in my birdbrain why Swami was emphasizing the Rama story when
this was Krishna's birthday, apparently a number of us were
contemplating the same thought. Towards the end of His discourse
Bhagavan Baba said today is Krishna's birthday but the nature of
Krishna and Rama are not different they are one and the same! I
chuckled to myself, the omniscience of our Sai Krishna is so
incredible. I am sure the entire discourse will be available for
all to enjoy soon.
Sending you all shooting stars of Sai Krishna Love
Lots of Prema
very happy sonya ki
Courtesy: Saibabanews-
05.09.2007
Puttaparthi
Update: September 5th 2007
Swami gives discourse as part of the Krishnastami celebrations
Yesterday evening Swami gave discourse as part of the
Krishnastami celebrations. Swami talked about Lord Rama in the
discourse. Again there was a small rally by the devotees from
Nalgonda. They sang bhajans and children were dancing folk
dances with small sticks in their hands. While some of the
devotees from Nalgonda left puttaparthi. Many are still here.
Courtesy:
http://www.puttaparthilive.com
Sai Krishna
