Latest: Prasanthi Diary - Part 2 - By Heart2Heart team

[Guest guest]

July 17, 2008 – Violin Concert by Students from Thailand On the evening of July 17, Bhagavan arrived after the bhajans had begun and went straight to the Bhajan Hall at 5.30 p.m. He entered the hall in His chair from the rear door after moving around in the verandah, and moving up the aisle, went out of the front door. On the verandah, He interacted with Dr. Jum Sai of Thailand, and consented to have a violin recital by the boys from Sathya Sai School, Thailand. There was an immediate response from the students of the school. From all the different places in the hall, they began to stream in towards the center. By that time, even the chairs were placed for them. In Prasanthi Nilayam, there is no stopping once God gives consent, just like any other part of the world! The boys moved to the centre of the Sai Kulwant Hall where place had been left for them, and with the bhajans coming to a halt, their programme commenced at six o'clock. However, the lady conductor was conspicuous by

her absence! Dr. Jum Sai himself began to conduct the little orchestra, swinging his arms rhythmically and gently. The pieces played were mostly popular bhajans and the children did a very good job of it. After fifteen minutes of playing, their conductor arrived! A loud round of applause filled the hall as everyone realised that the present conductor was only the stand by and yet had done such a good job. However, the difference became evident as the violinists bonded and blended wonderfully well with their conductor, and the same pieces sounded more harmonious than before. The orchestrator is as important, if not more, than the orchestra. So, they began playing the pieces once again. At 6.40 p.m., once the violins concluded, Swami blessed all of the children and asked for bhajans to commence in the Sai Kulwant Hall.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Jum Sai plays a cameo role

 

 

 

 

The orchestrator finally arrives

 

Swami had the programme sheet in His hand which contained all the bhajans that the students had played. He called the lead singers from the bhajan group and handing over the sheet to them, told them to sing the same bhajans! It took a while, but soon everyone in the hall realized what was going on and felt very touched at this little act of Grace from the Lord. Swami told the singers that they needn't sing the bhajans in both speeds; what was important was that all bhajans be sung! And so, from Ganesha Sharanam to Manasa Bhajore to Bhajana Bina, the bhajans were sung; the Thailand students were simply delighted. Then, as the bhajans were done, Swami suddenly asked for a Meera bhajan. That song began and was halfway through when Swami told them to stop. Then, He asked the violinists whether they could play any Meera bhajan. They smiled

sheepishly and said ‘no’. Swami too smiled and told them to sing any bhajan. They sang in chorus, Shambho Shankara Deva and everyone in the hall followed them. After this, Swami called them up for a group photo beside Him onstage, and interacted with them for nearly twenty minutes. As the flashes fired, Swami spoke lovingly to the children. Some of them began to show small card photos to Swami. He blessed them and said, "I will give photos. I will give." At 7:25 p.m., Swami received aarthi and left for Yajur Mandir as prasadam was distributed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The ultimate dream of any performer - to be with Him

 

 

 

 

"I will give you all photos"

 

July 18, 2008 – Guru Poornima in the Divine Presence Thousands thronged to the holy hamlet of Puttaparthi to be with their dear Guru on the occasion of Guru Poornima. Sai Kulwant Hall was brimming with people everywhere. The students from all the campuses too had arrived and what greater good fortune for a student than being with their Guru on this occasion. The Sun had risen quite early in the morning and was shining bright already. Maybe the sun too wished to have a glimpse of the Sadguru from the heavens! Resplendent in a golden yellow robe, the Sun in every heart rose at 8:50 a.m. Unlike the heavenly star, the sweet Lord seemed to bring in waves of calmness and coolness with His arrival. A special Golden coloured chair was His chariot and He was led in the procession by His baby elephant which was bedecked in festival finery. Swami moved slowly through the throngs of devotees and a "Mexican wave" of joy moved through the crowd, the crests of the wave coinciding with His position in the hall, as everyone craned to gift their eyes with the heavenly sight. There was exuberance and joy everywhere. Swami, in sharp contrast to the reactions of the devotees, was the epitome of calm and had a stoic smile as He gently moved through the surging and swelling crowds. He was the centre of calm in the devotional storm.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The sun rose with Sai on Guru Purnima

 

 

 

 

Extra energy in the Panchavadyam team

 

Completing a full round, He moved to the portico. A huge cake adorned the veranda. The cake was thickly covered with icing. But the 'icing' on the icing was a lovely model of Lord Rama embracing his dear most Hanuman. Swami lit the candle on the cake and also cut it gently. There was another cake too which Swami cut and blessed. Then He moved onto the stage.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The special "Rama-Hanuman" cake

 

 

 

 

Lighting the candle for a second cake

 

The moment He was on stage, the magic and joy of spontaneity was experienced by all in the hall - seeing Him so majestic and powerful, yet so dainty and sweet, the crowd burst in rapturous clapping so spontaneously, and seeing His devotees oozing with joy and enthusiasm, Swami raised both His hands in the ultimate act of Grace and benediction, as spontaneously.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Blessings galore!

 

That divine smile now danced on His lips. He sat for a while listening to the Vedam chanting along with the Nadaswaram and Panchavadyam performed by the students. He also kept beat with the music as the boys continued playing. After a while, Mr. Shivraj Patil, the Union Home Minister of India, presented a book to Bhagavan for release. This tome on the Bhagavad Gita was written by the distinguished statesman and was being made available in English, Hindi, Marathi and other languages. Swami was very eager in blessing the book. Bhagavan then asked Prof. Anil Kumar to announce the details of the book and after that Mr. Shivraj Patil was asked by Bhagavan to address the gathering. In his short speech, Mr. Patil thanked Bhagavan profusely for inspiring the book. As he completed his speech, Swami asked for a pen. Then He took the book and signed on its first page. It seemed so fantastic and appropriate. The Bhagavad Gita is an immortal treasure trove of wisdom that has inspired countless aspirants on the path to ultimate realization. And the teacher there is the Lord Himself in the form of Krishna. To be released on Guru Poornima by that same Krishna is a blessing that

could not have got better for Mr. Shivraj Patil.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Bhagawad Gita by Shivraj Patil is released

 

 

 

 

"With Love and Blessings - Sathya Sai"

 

After releasing the book, Swami asked for His mikes to be brought. Wow! It was indeed a supremely blessed day for the best possible event was about to take place. The Guru addressing all! Swami began with a long Telugu poem which the translator did not get the opportunity to translate. Then the discourse proceeded:

"It is the power of Love that makes everything possible. All the names are God's names. But the Truth is ‘Aham Brahmasmi’. The universe derives from and dissolves into the Truth. There is no place without Truth, and God is the cause for everything in the universe.

Shivraj Patil has written this Gita after poring over various texts and grasping this essence. There are many who write books but this one is very special for it has been written from the heart. Whenever, I visited him, he used to get it corrected and verified by me. And since it has arisen from his heart, the essence of the Gita is present in it. Guru Poornima is not just a day when you pay respects to the elders by giving them some money. "Gurur Brahma, gurur Vishnu, gurur devo maheshwara; Guru sakshath parabrahma tasmai sri gurave namaha". In that sense, God is the only Guru. Poornima is the moon that is full without any defects or black spots. With a pure heart, whatever is said, comes true. And whatever comes from the heart is the true word of the Guru.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"The heart is one's True Guru"

 

Once in their childhood, when the Pandavas and Kauravas were engaged in a ball game, the ball fell into a well and the children began to weep. Drona, his wife and son Ashwattama were passing by that way. Drona, the master, shot an arrow to the ball. Then successively, he shot arrows one behind the other and made a rope out of the arrows and pulled out the ball for them. Such was his greatness. Ekalavya wanted to become his disciple too but Drona refused to take him as one stating that he would not teach hunters. So the lad made a clay idol of Drona and mastered the art of archery. Once when Drona and all the princes were in the forest, a dog started barking and disturbing. Very soon, its mouth was rendered shut by hundreds of arrows shot with great precision! All wondered who had done so and it was discovered that Ekalavya was the one responsible. At this time, Arjuna grew very jealous. How can there be anyone else who is so

skilled? On inquiry, when Ekalavya said that his guru was Drona, Arjuna was angry too! The art of shooting by mere hearing the sound was something his Guru had promised to teach him alone. He wanted his guru Drona to ask as a Gurudakshina ( gift of gratitude to the Guru), the shooting thumb of Ekalavya! This stemmed from his ego that he was the best archer in the world. Drona did so to please Arjuna and Ekalavya lost his thumb and thus his career too. The guru may ask anything, but the true Guru is one who resides in the heart and gives instructions from there. The Bhagavad Gita is the teaching of the heart. Though Shivraj Patil read a lot, he had a lot of doubts. Finally he wrote what his heart felt. He did not follow any other text or teaching. It was Swadhyaya (the delving into the soul or Atma) that gave joy and clarity. Just remove the feelings of ‘I’ and ‘mine’, ego and possessiveness, and the Atma Tatwa stands revealed. Many make attempts to know the Self. To do that first drop the ‘I’. That is also symbolised by the Christian Cross. The Cross stands for the fact that when 'I' is crossed, Jesus is liberated. Also, one must give up possessiveness.

Shivraj Patil has been coming to me for 30 years now. Chavan and Patil came together to Swami. Patil was first made a minister in Mumbai and then He moved to Delhi. He became the Speaker of the Parliament. But he never asked Swami for anything. He has achieved a good name in the government too. They have full confidence in him. One must always have three things - Self confidence, Self-sacrifice and Self-satisfaction. And for all these 3, faith is absolutely essential. And Love of course! Demons have faith in God, but they hate God! Just reading and speaking is not enough. What you do practically counts. First see, then develop faith and follow. That will finally lead to Self-realization and that is Poornima - being spotless in thought, word and deed. Share with all whatever you know. This applies to the teachers and students alike, who are like the positive and negative respectively. Whatever you experience,

tell your parents. Have a close relationship with your mother and father. One who pleases parents will have progress on all fronts. God will be with them always. The last shloka of Gita states that where there is Arjuna (devotee) with Krishna (God), there will be ultimate victory and fulfillment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mr. Gowri Shankar wins His heart with his work

 

 

Today Shivraj Patil has given you a book with beautiful ideas and sentiments. That is why he has satisfaction and the book is respected. But you see boys reading all sorts of novels these days. They will hold a big spiritual book and concealed in it will be a novel! Such bad books must not be kept in our libraries. Even if they are kept, our boys will not even glance at them. Have sacred hearts and that will lead you to The secret place. Boys are all very good, but due to the age some disturbing thoughts do come. Be resistant at such times. All of you too must write books. We have one student..... what’s his name? (after conferring a while with some people around), Ah yes! Hungary government has called him....He is Gowri Shankar. He is going to Hungary for the paper that he has published. Every Tom, Dick and Harry doesn't get called like that.

{Swami blessed the lecturer Mr. Gowri Shankar on stage and told him to earn a good name for his parents and the Institute.}

Whatever you learn, you must spread it to some people. You should go everywhere and tell everyone about what you have learnt here in our Institute. There are two girls in the Anantapur campus too. Having excelled in English and Physics, they are being financed for a trip to USA. All of you should earn such a good name."

Concluding His discourse, Swami called two students from the bhajan group and told them to sing Shiva bhajans. And then, again He told them "Sing shankar bhajans". Mysterious and indeed unfathomable are the ways of God. Maybe a mere coincidence but still worth noting is the fact that while on His left sat Shivaraj Patil, on His left was Gowri Shankar! The boys told Swami that they had prepared some songs for the occasion. Swami agreed and told them to sing two songs. After the two were sung, Swami asked for the aarthi to be performed and retired to Yajur Mandir. In the afternoon, there was no scheduled programme. But with Swami, it’s always about loving His uncertainty! Swami arrived at about 5:10 p.m. in the same chair as the morning! This time, like the evening sun, He was in the orange robe. He took a full darshan round and moved to the stage. The Malladi brothers were seated one

side of the stage and Swami played His first stroke of loving uncertainty. He called them and told them to sing! They did not have their accompanying artists. So students were called to accompany them on the harmonium, tabla and mridangam. They began with a song on the glory and grandeur of the guru. Then, in their usual panache and wonderful style, they sang other songs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Malladi brothers with their Lord...

 

 

 

 

The concert enthralled everyone present

 

The highlight of the evening was the song, "Nagumomu". If all the feelings that coursed through all the people including Swami during that 15 minute period that the song lasted is to be captured, either 1 trillion words are needed or just one suffices - Bliss! The skill of the throat when it combines with the magical composition of a literary genius and most importantly with the streams of devotion in the heart - sheer bliss is the inevitable result.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Lord is moved with the rendition

 

Swami was very frequently singing along with the singers. As the song moved through its ups and downs of scale and moods, Swami seemed to reflect every thing. At one point, when the singers were at the heights of both, devotion and pitch, like a glistening dew drop on the lotus petal, a tear seemed to form in His eye! Simultaneously, there were wet eyes all over in the hall. The Malladi brothers went about their vocal gymnastics and thrilled everyone. There was not a single moment when Swami sat 'still'. He was all the while moving His hands or swaying - and it is the highest of achievements to "move" the Lord! In this case, Swami was literally and figuratively moved. Very few manage to replicate the technical genius of the uneducated Thyagaraja, but it is only a magical few who bring alive the devotion to Rama that he embodied. Any amount of description cannot do justice to those mesmerising moments in His presence. Swami asked for shawls to be brought and very lovingly honoured the singers who had brought so much of Love for God in the hearts of thousands. To intensely Love God is indeed a blessing from Him, but it is a greater boon to bring out the Love for God in the hearts of others too and the brothers were doing just that. After receiving shawls and Love, the concert continued for some more time. 3 songs later, Swami asked for aarthi and then as prasadam was being distributed, Swami retired. July 19, 2008 – Choir Programme by Austrian Devotees On the evening of July 19, 2008, the devotees from Austria had been permitted to present a choral programme. Swami came for darshan at 5 p.m., and took a round of the Sai Kulwant Hall in His chair before coming to the verandah. Before the programme commenced, He once again took a round of the ladies' side in His chair and granted a ‘bonus’ darshan. Then, slowly He moved up to the centre of the Sai Kulwant Hall. After He came onstage, the proceedings began. It was 5.25 p.m. The Austrian devotees must have felt very special at these acts of love and grace. They had a conductor who would sit down and speak into the mike after each song and explain the significance of the upcoming song.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Blessed by Him with Vibhuti...

 

 

 

 

....all the letters are accepted!

 

The feeling of joy of sitting and singing in the immediate presence of Lord was apparent on the beaming faces of the choir members, both men and women, and it was a torrential outpour of devotion in the form of music during the twilight session. Starting the programme with the song Dass Du mich einstimmen lasst, expressing gratitude to Bhagavan for the opportunity granted to them, the troupe sang the second song Wenn wir erklimme, expressing the feeling - ‘together we are climbing the mountain of life with full desire to reach the goal of merging with God, facing all challenges, enjoying the wonderful beauty of nature, which is the ornament of our Supreme Lord’. The next to come was from the composition of Austria's illustrious composer W. A. Mozart, and the song was "Hallelujah" , the song in praise of The Lord which was followed by a song on Sathya Sai, Gurudev Gurudev composed by a devotee from

Austria. The sixth song was an exclusive song, Werte de Lebens, on five Human Values followed by Atme in uns, a song which was a speedy prayer to the Holy Spirit for enlightenment, love and transformation. Andachtsjodler was the next to come, a devotional yodeler for praising the Lord at midnight mass. An old famous Austrian folk song about the splendour of nature, In die Berg bin I gern was the eight piece and that was followed by Lob and Preis, which was yet again another invitation to one and all to come and sing in praise of the Lord, and the last piece was Vater unser. Acknowledging that with the Lord's Prayer, which is the most common prayer in the Christian tradition, the troupe got the unique opportunity and immense grace to praise the Lord in His physical Presence in their mother tongue.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The "melody" team of the choir is all smiles...

 

 

 

 

An energy sapping and water-draining effort indeed

 

Sitting through the entire session and watching the graceful artistes singing their hearts out, Swami asked them to continue with two more songs. They repeated the songs. Swami was also very concerned that the speaker be given a standing mike so that he would not have to exert sitting and standing alternatively. Expressing happiness, "Very Happy" in so many words, simultaneously gesticulating with His typical hand movement, and with His face beaming in complete satisfaction, He showed His greater concern and love asking the conductor, who appeared to be tired after his physically demanding conductor show, whether he wanted water…and lo! He replied through the mike, "Yes, Swami, a lot of water has come out and its time some water went in!" The students got glasses of water for the members of the choir. Bhagavan asked them to sing some more after their half-hour of songs, and so an encore followed. Swami then asked the devotee who introduced the songs whether he wanted water, and referring to their tears of joy, he said, "Yes, Swami, so much water has come out, now some water must go in also!" The students supplied them with water. It was followed by prasadam distribution even as bhajans were being sung for the next half hour. The day ended with arati at seven o'clock. 20th July 2008 – Inauguration of Sri Sathya Sai World Education Conference

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A special exhibition is organised as part of the Education conference

 

At about 11 a.m. there was a sudden hustle outside the Yajur Mandir on July 20. Swami was going to the Poorna Chandra auditorium to inaugurate the Sai Vidya Jyoti exhibition that had been erected there. A dash of rangolis (symmetric drawings with colour powder on the floor) adorned a large portion of the auditorium floor, and children from various nationalities held flowers to welcome the Lord. Swami entered the grand entrance and lit the lamp to mark the opening. Then, He went around the various sections of the exhibition. There was an elaborate and well-made documentary on the various facets of Educare and Swami sat through the entire video of about 20 minutes. Next Swami moved to see the different sections of the Exhibition which were based on Sathya Sai System of Education being practiced in different regions of the world. Swami spent about 40 minutes in the exhibition. After blessing all the participants and watching

brief clips at different points, He returned to the Yajur Mandir at about 11:50 a.m.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Moving through the entire exhibition

 

 

 

 

He watches a video on Africa in all interest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Anything offered with Love and sincerity, I accept"

 

 

In the evening, the opening ceremony of the Sri Sathya Sai World Education Conference was scheduled. Swami arrived in the chair and took a detour to the stage between the seated ladies and gents delegates. And next, a very interesting episode occurred. All the delegate letters had been bundled into a huge package and the devotee sitting right in the front offered it to Bhagavan. Swami looked at it and it appeared as if He wanted to take it. But at the last minute, He blessed it and the package remained in the devotee’s hands. However as Swami came on the stage, He told the student beside Him, "Go down, take that package and keep it." There was an applause of joy and thrill at this act of Grace. After that Swami lit the lamp to mark the inauguration of the conference. This was followed by opening addresses by Dr. Michael Goldstein and Mr. V. Srinivasan. After their speeches, Swami asked for His mikes and began His divine discourse.

"Today education has become physical. There are millions who have studied but of what use are they to the society? They are all achieving their own selfish needs and none are there who think of others or realize the condition of the society. In public, they declare that they help the poor but do nothing. You know the plight of the world today. There is misery everywhere and there is no trace of bliss. Every region or country speaks highly in self-praise but the suffering continues. Who are rich? 'Manas ekam, Vachas ekam, karmanyekam Mahaatmanam. ' They are great who have unity in thought, word and deed. Big countries are doing a lot of harm to other countries. They are unmindful of the poverty and do not even feel repentant at what they are doing. Every country helps only the rich. You must all stand by the poor and for this Prema (Love) and Daya (Compassion) are essential. Only those with Thyaga (sacrifice) get bliss, never

those with feelings of ‘I’ and ‘mine’.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Have unity in thought, word and deed"

 

Today Paapa Bheeti (fear of sin) and Daiva Preeti (Love for God) are both missing. These two can get you everything. The selfishness is on the rise and the largeness of the world is reducing. The rich sit in palatial houses while the poor toil. Everything is God's gift. How can it be denied to anyone? Serve and be served by the poor. Today 100% of the educated are selfish. They are responsible for cheap behaviours. People fight on selfish grounds. A human is one who has human values. You cannot be happy when your fellowman is suffering. If you give pain to any child of God, that pain will come back to you. Today, the spirit of unity and equality is needed. Unity leads to purity of heart and finally to divinity in experience. Do not be indifferent to suffering. God resides in every heart - even in ants and mosquitoes. So, do not kill them by using Flit (an insecticide) . If you want to protect yourself, use a mosquito

net. Show a little humanity. Today there is no compassion, only "come- fashion". Anger, lust, greed, hatred and jealousy are all demonic qualities. What is the use of a human form if you have these qualities? For everything, there is reaction, reflection and resound. If you make a country suffer, it will make you suffer later. Go to any of our schools and ask any kid what is meant by human values and they will tell you. A time will come when we have to learn from the children.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Educare relates to you alone"

 

 

Truth comes from the heart. Go deep within and enquire. The Truth will be revealed. Truth with right action gives Love and peace, and this will lead to non-violence. All these human values are within us. Man is indeed God. Ask God, "Who are you?" and He will respond, ‘Aham Branhmasmi’. Names are different and given by the parents. ‘Ek Atma Sarva Bhootantaratma’ - the same soul resides in all beings. You see ants moving in a row. Whenever they meet another ant, they kiss, consult and then move on. A calf keeps crying out to its mother when born. When a hunter shot the male of a pair of birds, the female cried and died. That episode lead to the composition of the Ramayana itself. Animals exhibit such sentiments, man has to learn from them. No amount of speaking and listening will help. Only when you follow, you will understand. You feel bad when others shout at you, but what happens when you shout at others?

Consider everything as God's will as it is good for you. Today people have lost Self-confidence. When you say ‘this is my kerchief’, the kerchief is different from you. So too, when you say ‘this is my body’, ‘my mind’, ‘my intellect’, you are different from them. You are not making an effort to understand your true nature. Know your true nature and identity. God is with you, in you, around you and above you. In fact, you are God. Education is not merely learning. You learn the meaning of words and not their significance. Ask who you are and get the answer for that question. It is not enough if you keep reading books. One student came to me saying that he had read the entire Shirdi Sai Satcharitra. I asked him as to what he had practised from it. He said that he hadn't practised anything! When you open your eyes, you see thousands around. But close your eyes and you see only yourself. I am I. That is the answer. Names are only for practical purposes. Examine and recognise your heart. Goldstein and Srinivasan spoke so much about education but educare is not related to the world. It relates to you. Only then will you be able to proclaim ‘I am I’. Once you clearly understand this, you will realize divinity. Remember, literacy is not knowledge. Truth is God, Love is God. You cannot be the sole possessor of Love. God is the only owner of Love. Educare is to bring that Love out from within. In just 25-30 years, there will be harmony and peace in the world. Tomorrow, I will clear all the doubts you have. Now it’s late. We will have the music."

So, as Swami went for a short break into the interview room, the stage was set for the Sai Symphony Orchestra. As all the members of the orchestra were ready, Swami arrived and asked them to start the performance. Conducted by Michael Koehler from Germany, the orchestra consisted of violins, violas, cellos, bass, clarinets, saxophones, oboes, bassoons, flutes, trumpets, trombones, French horns, percussions alongside, a tube, a timpani and a keyboard - a wide array indeed! Representing 21 countries, the musicians just let themselves to be ruled by their heartfelt feelings. The program consisted of Romantic music pieces of the great western classical masters. They played Shostakovich festive overture, Ottorino Respighi, Felix Mendelssohn and some more pieces. As they completed, Swami blessed them and asked for tetrapacks of mango juice to be served to all.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Sai Symphony in full Harmony

 

 

 

 

Tetrapaks to rejuvenate the juices of the performers

 

He also blessed prasadam to be distributed. He then received aarthi and left to Yajur Mandir. July 21, 2008 – Second Day of World Education Conference In the morning of July 21, all the delegates were seated in the Sai Kulwant Hall and were eager as Swami's discourse had been scheduled. Swami arrived for darshan at 10:45 a.m. Almost immediately, He came to the stage and wanted the proceedings to begin. There were four speeches scheduled before His discourse. The first speaker was Dr. Tom Scovill. After his 15 minute speech, there was a very interesting talk by Dr. B.G. Pitre. He spoke on the techniques and impact of Sathya Sai Education, with illustrative anecdotes. The next, was Dr. Dalton de Souza Amorim. Swami materialized a gold chain for him as he concluded his speech. Finally, Mr. Srirangarajan from the Sri Sathya Sai University delivered his talk which revolved around the four E's of educare - experience, example, empowerment and ennoblement.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Tom Scovill makes an impressive opening

 

 

 

 

Dr. Pitre provokes the delegates into deep thought

 

After the talks, Swami said that He would deliver His discourse in the evening. Swami thus accepted aarthi and retired to Yajur Mandir at noon. The delegates for the conference gathered at various venues in the ashram for their respective post-lunch sessions and returned to the Sai Kulwant Hall for the afternoon plenary session. Swami arrived in His chair and moved to the interview room after four o'clock. At 4.30 p.m., the speeches for the afternoon commenced. Mr. Victor Krishna Kanu from Zambia, who arrived on stage in a wheel chair, was the first to be invited to speak. He roared like an African lion, saying that it is time to move ahead into action. He powerfully impressed on all that being born at a time when the Avatar is on earth is no small ‘coincidence’. Swami was visibly moved with his "roars". He blessed him profusely at the end of his short speech. Then, Mr. Jeremy Hoffer, spoke on his experiences as a teacher in the SSE programme

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A golden adornment for Dr. Dalton

 

 

 

 

Swami's lion roars for action on the educare front

 

.. Next, Mr. M. K. Kaw dwelled on the functioning procedures at the Sri Sathya Sai International Center at Delhi. And finally, Mr. Sanjay Mahalingam, a research scholar at Sri Sathya Sai University, elaborated on how the goal of educare is to gift one with absolute silence within.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mr. Sanjay Mahalingam delivers his talk

 

 

 

 

The nectarine flow readies itself to flow...

 

Bhagavan, then, graciously consented to speak to the delegates. A list of questions was handed over to Him. Next, He asked for the mikes and began His discourse.

"Study that which can confer on you immortality. Education without action is useless in spite of all the titles and degrees you may boast of; practise is important. The greatest ignorance is among those who have learnt much. Following them, the children too get spoilt. Here are is the list of questions that have been submitted to me.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Going through the doubts of the delegates

 

1) For students, what is the way to have a relationship with God? God is in you. Live in Love as one with God. It is only when God is considered as separate that you need a relationship. He is not separate. ‘God is in me and is me’ - have this identity firm in your minds. 2) How to evaluate one's spiritual worth? You have to examine yourself. Do I have strong faith or is my faith for the sake of worldly gains? Faith is that which never wavers. 3) What are the signs of spiritual transformation? There are nothing like special signs; it is an experience. It may be your dreams or may come as listening to your inner voice. Finally, it is you who have to feel for yourself whether you are growing in devotion or not. Rely on yourself and your own faith.4) What should be the qualities of a Guru for Sathya Sai Education (SSE)? The teacher should be one of Love and must inculcate virtues in students by example. The students must not simply be left free to do anything they please. Apply some brakes on their freedom. Punishment also must be there if needed. But the punishment must be as a cautionary warning and not as a means to hurt or inflict pain on the student. The teachers and student should both move together on the same path and not on divergent ways.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Make the students happy in the true sense"

 

 

5) How to ensure that students grow in discipline along the spiritual path? The students must remain students and teachers must remain teachers. All you have to do is just make the students happy in the true sense of the term, that’s all. 6) How do we mould students into ideals? This is very important. If the teacher has good conduct, the students will emulate him/her. Whatever you tell them not to do; you too must refrain from doing so. Eat with them, and live and eat the same type of food. Do not eat fish and meat, and advise on vegetarianism. Practise what you preach. Foster the children yourself as you would do to your own children. Do not behave egoistically just because you are a teacher. An ideal student will be humble and obedient.

7) How to behave when girls are there? When boys are around, it is usually fine. Very good behavior is needed when there are girls. Consider them as your sisters with respect. Lead an ideal life. 8) How should students and parents be taught? In front of children, parents should never discuss family problems, financial matters and their worldly woes. They should keep it to themselves. Children will themselves understand the problems of the parents. Do not speak to them directly. Parents should first cultivate the virtues and take care not to be cautioned by the children. As children, do not trouble your parents. They have many hopes on you and they have sacrificed a lot. Know that you have come up because of those sacrifices. Even if you cause a little pain to them, you will have lot of difficulties. Even if you go for a marriage and family, keep parents happy without troubling them. Never neglect your parents. Your main duty is to make your parents happy. It is your mad and bad company that makes you go wayward. Tell me your company and I will tell you what you are. Correct

those who neglect their parents.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Is that all? No more questions?"

 

The maximum disturbances are due to the differences in the aspirations of the child and parent. If you choose as you wish, what about your parents then? It is the worst sin to cause pain to your parents for your selfish happiness. This is not expected of any son or daughter. Today you marry and get your in laws, but who were there with you since birth? Desire good and discharge your duties. Do not simply get involved in others affairs. Do not show your temper in front of those who desire your good. Express gratitude and never make your aged parents shed tears. Is that all? Are there any more questions? Parents should recognise Human Values and teach the children. Practice whatever you say. Don't say, “I have no time. I have to go to office." If you think about your office, what about the children? After education, girls go for jobs. Who will look after the children and household duties then? You keep an aaya (maid) to take care of the children. Who will maintain the family honor and prestige? This will bring down the reputation of the family. Hence, you have to take up employment only after ensuring smooth running of the household. You can certainly take up a job, provided the children are taken care of in a proper manner. Even the males do not understand this situation. Some people spend their time in reading newspapers and watching TV after returning from their offices. Some others go to the club and play cards. They do not bother about their family and children. There is none with copyrights on Human values. They are for all. The way police and government officials behave has a bearing on the children. Do not allow the children to sleep till 8 in the morning. Nowadays parents themselves sleep till late morning. Only retired people can sleep that way as they are free from responsibilities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Cheap novels must be burnt!"

 

 

Have a capital fund if needed. If parents come to help financially, you can accept. Mutual co- operation and help should grow. Discipline, Devotion and Duty are most important. Teach Human Values. Show the way to get closer to God. Do not give everything that the child asks for. Give only what is necessary. Sai System must be applicable for parents too. There should not be a mismatch between what the teacher tells in class and what the parents say at home. Parents must visit the schools and find out about their children. Check what sort of books they read. They will read novels hidden in their text books. Throw and burn all the cheap novels. In our libraries such books are absent.In Bharat, especially in villages, children take care of their parents. It is only the officers in towns who neglect. The children keep roaming in the streets. The students should not be vagabonds. What is most important is that you

must not waste food, energy, money and time. Have a ceiling on desires. None have this today. In India, people engage in saving. Seeing this, people in USA and Japan feel jealous. They spend wasteful dollars on food. Serve the hungry with the left over food. If you waste money, difficulties are sure to come. We are ready to waste but do not serve. Do not talk too much. Keep all the organs under check. Time waste is life waste. Misuse of money is evil. Do not splurge unnecessarily. If the rich people keep spending more, everybody demands a raise in their salaries! So when you spend, see if it is being properly used. So these were all the questions in the minds. Be careful in society. Any small blunder is seen as huge. Never commit a mistake in society. Lead life with utmost care.....Hmmmm. Now do bhajans."

The students sang bhajans for 10 minutes after Swami's Discourse while the delegates moved out from the centre of the Sai Kulwant Hall to make way for the devotees from the CIS (former USSR) who were to make a musical presentation. Bhagavan returned to the stage after a brief visit to the interview room and the music program began with a brief introduction. Songs from Russia, Georgia, Belarus, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan kept the packed hall enthralled with their catchy tunes and lively beat. The joy and enthusiasm radiating from the faces of these devotees was very infectious. Everyone had a smile and some of them were even almost laughing aloud! It was truly a very divine atmosphere as the joy radiating from the Lord and devotees combined, spread a thrill everywhere.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Blessing the conductors of the program

 

 

 

 

A performance that won all hearts

 

After their half-hour programme, Swami asked them to sing one more song. So they sang the popular "Kalinka" and had the audience clapping all through. Then, as all the organisers came around Swami, He spoke to them. All of a sudden, waving His hand, Swami materialised a huge golden Lingam. The lingam was awesome by its sheer size alone! He handed it over to Dr. Goldstein with some instructions. He asked for a cover and wrapped the lingam in the cover.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Swami's response to the concert!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The unexpected spontaneous materialization. ..

 

 

 

 

....gifted to Dr. Goldstein with due instructions

 

He told him to perform the abhishekam or the holy bath for the deity. Promising further instructions later, Swami displayed the lingam for all the eager devotees to have a look at. There were gasps and shrieks. It is true that in the state of highest happiness, man does not know how to react. The mixture of spontaneous reactions was something that must be seen and heard to be truly experienced! Blessing all the devotees, Swami accepted aarati and returned to His residence at 7.30 p.m. while prasadam was distributed. July 22, 2008 – Valedictory Day of Sri Sathya Sai Education Conference The morning of July 22, 2008, found all the delegates of the Sri Sathya Sai Education Conference assembled in the Sai Kulwant Hall for the third and final day of the conference proceedings. Bhajans began at 9 o'clock, and Swami arrived in His chair at 9.50 a.m. He took a small darshan round and then came onstage. He saw that the delegates had collected their letters and made two bundles, one was with a senior lady and the other with a gentleman. Swami called two students and told them to take the huge bundles of letters and place them on the stage. Then, He called out for the Thailand school boys who had played the violin concert a few days ago. Dr. Jum Sai gathered and got some of them onstage. Swami distributed watches to them and they were thrilled. Since Swami had promised them earlier that He would give them their photographs, they asked Swami, "Swami, our photographs. " At this time, one photographer

immediately went up to Swami and handed over all the copies of the photos. They were all happy to receive them from the divine hands. Then, Swami sat onstage for a few minutes and interacted with the conference organisers. Then He moved to the interview room and called in a few lady delegates for an interview. Once He emerged from the interview, He came onstage and accepted arati before returning to His residence at 11 a.m.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Watches for the student violin artistes from Thailand

 

 

 

 

The promised photos too

 

The final session of the conference got underway in the evening when Swami came onstage just before 5 a.m. The three speakers for the session were Dr. Narendra Reddy, Mr. Nimish Pandya and Dr. Michael Goldstein. Once the speakers summed up the conference proceedings and outlined the course of future action, Bhagavan delivered His benedictory message.

Embodiments of love, From the past two days you have been sitting and listening all the while. Having spent a lot of money, energy and time, you have come here and it is indeed your great good fortune to be here. Your heartfelt experience is the witness for it. Many have money but only a few get this opportunity. What is to be learnt?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Man is fearful of everything today"

 

There are lakhs of schools and colleges. understand that the true college is in your heart. Understand the five values of Sathya, Dharma, Shanti, Prema and Ahimsa. We have lawyers in the world who become liars and doctors who fight amidst themselves. There is no unity. First cultivate unity that we are all brothers and sisters. Father is one - he is God. Have conviction that we are all the children of the same God. Have adjustment and understanding. For the former to come, latter is most important. Today, the number of scientists is on the rise, but their actions are senseless. Science is not "dealing with the senses". They make errors and society is being hurt and harmed. Today man is full of fear to do anything. He cannot even board or alight an aircraft without fear. (At this point, a tiny mouse scuttled amidst the primary school children. Everyone started shrieking

and even the ladies began to get up! Swami saw the commotion gently for a while.) If you are so scared of a small mouse, how can handle other events in life? Don’t fear. Fear leads to imagination. People are scared of everything, including fruits and vegetables as there are medicines in them. Everything is polluted today - the food, water and air. So it’s best, you make everything by yourselves. Do not go by taste. Health is most important. Speak the Truth always. Whatever people say, be calm and peaceful. In the olden days, people kept mounam (silence). For all spiritual practices, silence helps. When you are peaceful and silent, pure love is generated. Who is your enemy? There is none. Make attempts to lead a life of love. People talk of peace, but it is often pieces. Countries are being broken in pieces. Always say, I am from India - not Puttaparthi, Anantapur, etc. Similarly, do not

say that you are from California. Say you are from USA. Become broad minded. Once you become so, the children too will follow. If the children are not proper, the parents are to blame. At a certain age, children will not listen to the parents if the parents’ behaviour is not fine.

Even the ants move in a straight line but not man! Parents are the ones that mould children. They must not stay separate. They must speak and remain united. Teach Truth as the first step. Truth is having unity and purity in thought, word and deed. Truth is the great grandfather of all virtues. Have a heartfelt life and not an artificial one. Today, reading, meditation and chanting have all become artificial. Keep the heart alive and the mind under check. The mind of man alone is responsible for either his bondage or liberation. Have good thoughts, automatically good actions will follow..Direct the mind properly and it will remain silent. When the sun of wisdom rises to its zenith, then the shadow of ignorance is below our feet. And while doing it, have patience and take time. Just like the hour hand of the clock in which everyone is interested, and not the second hand (which is "second-hand" !), God is more interested in

steady progress. Divert the mind on to God always. You feel that is difficult, but it is the simplest. Grow in love for God and the mind is automatically controlled. Live in love, and that is not the worldly love but spiritual love.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"It is only Love that has got you all here"

 

 

Never think that it is your will. If it is yours then why are you not able to control things? It is all God's will. Both bad and good are His gifts. You run after the worldly law, but the divine law is the law of Love. Let anyone speak anything or criticize, the love within is safe, secure and divine. If anything happens, the heart comes to know of it. In the bag of the body, the mind, intellect, etc. are present. Also the six vices are present that trouble you always. Offer everything to the Lord and get bliss for yourselves.

Has anyone invited you all here? Love has brought you all here, it is your love for Swami that has brought you. Love unites. See when you add ‘+’ and ‘+’, you get ‘+’. But add up ‘+’ and ‘-‘, you get ‘-‘. Have love always. Love can achieve anything. When Hanuman went to Sri Lanka, he saw Sita telling Ravan about the sterling qualities of Rama. Lord Rama was a man of great character. The end of education is character. Without it, there is no use. Install goodness and character in your heart.

More than anything be prepared to sacrifice. What will you do with so much money? When Alexander was dying, he asked that he be taken in the funeral with outstretched arms. He wanted to show that the greatest emperor of all times leaves the earth with nothing as his possessions! Be prepared to help the needy and poor. That will give you great joy. The children here will now put up their program.

At the end of His Discourse, He went to the interview room briefly, and returned with Dr. Goldstein in tow. Swami took the lingam that He had given to Dr. Goldstein last evening and displayed it to everyone. He then created vibhuti and sprinkled it on the lingam, and it was the perfect abhishekam. He again created some more of the holy Vibhuti and asked Dr. Goldstein to immediately put all of it into his mouth. He announced that He's giving the lingam to Dr. Goldstein for him to distribute the water from ritually bathing the lingam to those who are unwell. There were thunderous claps and joyous shouts of Jaijaikars as Swami said that. He then asked for the evening's cultural programme to begin.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Swami shows the lingam for all to see again

 

 

 

 

The vibhuti abhishekam is done in public

 

Children from the Sri Sai Vidya Vihar, Alwaye, Kerala, presented an hour-long dance drama on Bhaktha Jayadeva. The drama began with a wonderful ballet between Krishna and Radha. Then a teacher arrives on the scene and starts narrating to the children, the story of Jayadeva. The Lord literally composes the verses for Jayadeva who is lost in His glory alone. When the ruler of the land, Lakshmana Sena tries to harass the poet, the Lord is always present, rescuing and glorifying the devotee. There was also a scene of the great devotion of Padmavathi towards her husband Jayadeva.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jayadeva - the perfect instrument of the Lord

 

 

 

 

A fake cloth to convince Padmavathi.. .

 

When the queen fools her telling that Jayadeva is dead, she immediately drops down dead in sorrow. Jayadeva's sorrowful, yet devotional hymn rushes to the very gates of heaven and drags the Lord down to shower mercy and resurrect Padmavathi. The final scene was about how the Lord comes down as a scholar to subject Jayadeva to the final test. But the all humble saint submits completely and the Lord Krishna is lost in his love. The drama concluded with a final song.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

An anguished Jayadeva finds solace in the Lord

 

 

 

 

The ultimate redemption for the saintly soul

 

Swami's face was covered in smiles watching the small children make their presentation. During the scene when the wife dies, all the ladies in the front were in tears at the nobility of the woman. The pleadings to Lord Krishna, were all directed to Sai Krishna and Swami too reflected the same sentiments. As they concluded, He got up from the stage and walked down to take group photographs with them. He walked down the steps and all the children came towards Him to receive Him. After a while, He also sat on the chair and posed for photographs with them. He called the actor who played the role of Jayadeva and gifted her a clock embedded in a laminated photograph. He later gave one of that to each of the participants as they came up one by one, while prasadam was distributed to all the devotees. He also threw a couple of sweets to some of the drama participants. It was 8 p.m. when Swami accepted arati, blessed everyoneand

returned to His residence.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

He moved down amidst them for group photos

 

 

 

 

Framed clocks for every participant

 

July 23, 2008 – Music Programme by Italian Devotees Devotees from Italy had filled up the marble block as they had been granted permission to perform in the divine presence on the evening of July 23, 2008. The whole choir was seated on the floor. There were two violins, a flute and a clarinet player on the ladies side on chairs. Mirroring them in position on the gents side were a violin, an accordion, a guitar and tambourine players. Swami arrived for darshan at about 5:20 p.m. And when He came, there were gasps! He had come on the special golden chair that He had used for Guru Poornima. Since it is at a nice height, all the devotees benefit from a wonderful darshan. Swami moved to the stage and asked for the programme to begin. The programme was presented as an offering of devotional songs from Italy. As Swami sat, the offerings were made to Him. A little boy gave Him the Italian flag. Swami blessed the conductor of the programme and asked them to start.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The blessed Italian flag in the Divine hands

 

 

 

 

The Lord on the golden chair blesses the programme

 

There was that little boy, maybe 8-9 years of age, who began the programme with Vedic chanting. As he completed it, Swami was all smiles. He called the boy and asked him as to from whom had he learnt the chanting. He blessed him and sent him back. The next item also was by this boy who played a solo guitar piece.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Did these claps elicit that wonderful performance?

 

 

 

 

...or did the performance elicit Divine appreciation?

 

It was followed by a short piano recital and then the singing began. It started with a rapid "Om Sri Ganesha", followed by an emotional song addressing Swami as the mother. A soulful song entitled, "Oh My Sun" was next and it gave way to a high pitched and quickly changing song entitled, "Flying with God". The "Tarantella Divina" or the divine dance was ushered in next and "Longing for Sathya Sai" gave them an opportunity to pour out their feelings for Him. Swami noticed that the gentleman sitting right in front had no mike before him. He asked, "Won’t he sing?" There was merriment and that devotee was immensely touched. He needed no mike after that encouraging statement! Two more songs later, they concluded. But Swami wanted them to continue. He asked for one more song which they sang whole heartedly and in full throat. They seemed to be in a sort of pleasurable trouble when Swami asked them to sing another. They began to repeat a

song and as they concluded, like a sweet child Swami asked, "One more?" They continued with the encore and then finally they told Swami that they were done!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Can you sing one more?"

 

 

 

 

An encore followed by bhajans

 

He then told them to sing bhajans. They began to sing and Swami blessed chocolates to be distributed among them. The conductor put aside her stand and took a harmonium and began playing. This day also happened to be the 13th anniversary of the Sri Sathya Sai Junior Boys Hostel. So the children had brought a model of the school hostel to be blessed by Swami. Swami, however, did not seem to notice them. He concluded the bhajans, received aarthi and went into the interview room. Whenever God "denies" something, it is only because He has something greater and grander to gift us. The children appeared a little downcast but a lot more determined. They sat with the model at the Lord's door awaiting His arrival. What happened next is something that will remain etched in the memories of all present for a long time to come. Swami came out of the interview room and seeing the boys, called them. They went to Him with the model and trays of chocolates and goodies. Swami was impressed with the model. But the perfectionist that He is, He asked them," Turn the model around...". He examined all the sides and, His students that they are, they had made it very well. Swami seemed to be very happy with the model being perfect on all the six sides, yes, top and bottom included! Then He blessed the trays of chocolates and goodies. And in that instant, it seemed He was going to do something exciting. He took a few "gold coins" chocolates and began distributing them to the VIPs there. Then, He moved to the ladies side and began distributing coins one by one to the devotees. He saw the ladies sitting on wheelchairs. He moved towards them and began to give each of them "golden" coins with His own hand. He moved along the lines distributing coins. He moved back to the

shutters area also where there were ladies on wheel chairs. He gave coins to all of them on priority basis. Their joy knew no bounds. They would not have imagined in their wildest dreams of this happening to them. But that is the way with God. He may not give you what you expect at times, but at other times, He gives that which we don't even dare to imagine! Some of the women raised up their babies for Swami to bless. Swami gently touched the babies on their foreheads.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Swami blesses the "model" school!

 

 

 

 

The Lord's Love knows no measure

 

He went around in this manner distributing among the ladies till the gold coins ran out! He stretched out His hand and the tray was empty. A satisfied smile blossomed on His face and there were thrilled faces all around. He slowly came back to the center where the Italian group was seated. He called and had a set of photographs taken with the youngest member of their group who had recited Vedam and played a guitar solo, and asked the students to sing bhajans. The bhajans began and none need to say that they were in full gusto. Swami blessed all the birthday boys and the boys with trays too.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Sweet memories" for the choir members

 

 

 

 

The birthday boys have a field day

 

He threw some chocolates to the members of the Italian choir. He just sat there smiling so blissfully and there was just joy and joy everywhere. At about 7:15 p.m., Swami received aarthi for the second time and then retired to the Yajur Mandir. - Heart2Heart Team source: sairadio.org