November 22 2008 ,November 23 2008 (SOURCE:http://saistudents.org/alumni/home/news.php)

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November 23 2008

The beauty of the avatar is that when He descends on the earth, He not

only assumes the earthly responsibilities for which He actually has no

binding, but He also indulges humanity for their joys and celebrations.

So, every year, without fail, as devotees congregate for His birthday,

He too pays special attention to the day and celebrates it with them.

That is not because it is His birthday, but because it is an occasion

that the devotees revel and joyously congregate. Surely, any other

occasion that confers the same kind of joy would be given the same kind

of attention by Swami! He lives for His devotees who love Him. And the

devotees strive to live for Him who gives His all for them.

It was from about 5:00 am that the serpentine queues to get

into the Nilayam began. All roads in Puttaparthi actually lead to the

Mandir which is the heart of the town but today none of those roads

seemed sufficient for the huge numbers of devotees assembling for a

sight of the Lord. These scenes are so powerful in the hope and

positivity they evoke. If at all confounded by negative thoughts and

assailed by doubts as to is there any hope in this violence and hatred

filled world, a reminiscence of these scenes will calm the turbulent

mind. There are so many people alive who are ready to give their all

for God who is Truth, Righteousness, Peace and Love and that is

reassurance enough that the world is soon going to find Truth,

Auspiciousness and Beauty- Satyam, Shivam and Sundaram. In a very

regulated manner, these crowds were slowly allowed into the mandir

premises and soon Kulwant hall was filled to its capacity. Though we

jump ahead of time, it is important that we know an important fact. At

11:30am, when all the morning festivities at the mandir had concluded,

there were still people in the queues with the hope that if not in the

morning, they would see their beloved Swami in the evening.

Meanwhile, inside the Kulwant hall, every inch of space had

been taken up. A beautiful arch with the lettering 83rd Birthday of

Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba was seen richly decorated with flowers and

other paraphernalia of decorations. The dais too was a treat to the eye

with magnificent flower decorations. Video cameras were stationed at

important points to catch all the live action. Pressmen had cramped

every available space in the exclusive gallery allotted to them with

their scribble pads. Lensmen too had taken their positions in their

allotted places. It was at about 9:45am that Swami arrived from the

Yajur Mandir. There were a host of people waiting to wish Him on this

day that was so special for them. Roses were exchanged and the Kalasham

of the Veda group was blessed. The band leaders of the different bands

offered their prostrations at HIs feet on behalf of their respective

bands. There was the wonderful procession to usher the Lord into the

Kulwanth hall. Led by the bands of the Primary School, the Anantapur

campus and the Prasanthi Nilayam campus there were the Vedam chanting

students from the Primary School, Higher Secondary School and the

University following and completing the procession. Swami, like

yesterday, allowed the procession to proceed before Him.

Reserve the best for the end and towards the end was Swami in

His shining pure white robe on a wonderful throne chair which was

golden in its colour. Wherever Swami went, there was a surge in the

crowds. The hinges of the gates seemed strained to the last strand of

metal as people cramped behind them to have a glimpse of Swami in this

beautiful form. The Sri Rudrah Prasnah chanting was on. Swami moved to

the stage and as He sat on the centrestage, the Prashanti Nilayam band

struck up the world's most popular tune, "Happy birthday to you."

Everyone seemed to clap and sway with it. Following that, the girls'

band from Ananthapur too played their version of the same song. Soon

after that, like a cycle of tunes, each band began to play. The Primary

bagpipes and trumpets band too joined the party. Swami sat almost

expressionless listening to all of them When the kettle drums band from

the Primary school was playing, Swami told the University band boys to

sit down. He then told the same to the Ananthapur band too.

As the Vedam chanting continued Swami moved into the veranda

were there was an array of cakes. He was welcomed at each cake and He

lit the candle and cut the cake. There were about 9 cakes in all and

Swami gave everyone joy as He went about the portico. He also moved to

the ladies side to cut cakes from the Ananthapur campus. Before that,

He cut a huge specially decorated cake which had Lord Krishna adorning

it. The governor of Karnataka His Excellency Rameshwar Thakur was

present on the dais paying obeisance to Bhagawan. He presented Swami

with a garland and told Him that it was his privilege to be present and

witness such a grand occasion. Swami blessed him. Then the cricket

legend, Sri Sunil Gavaskar presented Swami a cricket bat signed by the

members of the 1983 World Cup Winning Team. Swami took the bat and

stared at it for long as if remembering how He had specially blessed

those members to win what was their cup of Life. Then Swami moved out

through the portico to the stage. He signalled to the students to start

Bhajans and after a while even songs like "Sri Raghavam Dasarathmaja

Aprameyam ...", "Namo Sathya Sai Baba ...", "Manishini Madhavuni Chese

Mahine Swargamuga Marche Sathya Sai Bhagawan Ki Enta Premayo, Enta

Premayo …" were sung. This final song has a profound meaning, which is

worth mentioning in this context: "The love of Sathya Sai Baba for

humanity is incomparable and indescribable that He is transforming

humans into divine and earth into heaven."

And so on the birthday morning, as hundreds of top notch

musicians worldwide prayed for a chance to sing for Him, (there were

atleast half a dozen maestros in the mandir itself) it was the

privilege of the students to serenade for their Swami. After the songs,

Swami received Aarthi and retired as prasadam was ditributed to all.

The evening session proved to be another unforgettable one for

all those present physically in Kulwant hall, especially for the staff

and students of Muddenahalli. It was almost 5:40 pm when Swami came for

darshan. Once He reached the stage, He asked Prof Anil Kumar to speak a

few words in Telugu and to introduce the speakers for the evening. Sri.

V. Srinivasan, All India President of the Sai Organisations spoke

first, and was followed at 6.15 pm by Sri. Ajit Popat of the UK.

Sri Srinivasan said that today is the defining moment in the

chronicles of time because today the universe, the galaxies, planets,

sun, moon, asteroids, all are fortunate to have 1,008 Darshan of Sri

Sathya Sai Avatar.Referring to Bhagawan's Discourse on the occasion of

27th Convocation of the University, the learned speaker said that

Bhagawan has declared that in 28 years time, India would be the

vanguard of all the countries of the world. All would be one. There

would be absolute unity. Swami has brought hope to the loveless

world.The erudite speaker also said that today after the morning

function, Swami told him and others to construct permanent houses in

Orissa to those who are rendered homeless by the recent floods.

Bhagawan is love personified. The message of yesterday's drama is love.

Bhagawan reaches out to the people of the villages. The speaker as All

India President had many such experiences when he visited different

parts of the country.Sri Ajit Popat began his speech by offering his

salutations to Bhagawan in his customary manner– Namaste Prema Rupaya

Namaste Paramatmane, Namaste Shirdi Nathaya, Namaste Sathya Sayine.Sri

Popat in his inimitable style said that the ABC of life is Always be

compassionate, charitable. Man at the time of birth cries Koham, people

now instead of saying Soham say 'phonum'. Everybody talks on mobile

continuously. The speaker said that one should get up from bed at

Brahamamurtam and do Sadhana. He said that one should be energetic,

efficient and enterprising. If we want to be with the master, we should

be efficient. He quoted Bhagawan's saying Follow the master, face the

devil, fight till the end and finish the game. Every Darshan of the

Lord is precious and important. That understanding is the dawn of

golden age in us. The intensity of our devotion should be like a weary

traveller in the midst of a desert at 12 noon. Our devotion should be

as intense as his thirst for water. Sri Popat prayed on behalf of

millions of devotees in U.K. and Europe to visit Sai Kutir in U.K. He

concluded his speech by saying let us love all for the sake of the

master, Bhagawan and serve all in His name.

It was after Sri Popat's speech that the thunderbolt seeme dto

strike in the mandir as Swami signalled for His mikes to be brought up.

You can read Bhagawan's Discourse here.

 

Swami concluded His discourse with the bhajan, "Rama Rama Rama Sita."

Blessing everyone, Swami received Aarthi and retired for the day.

Click here for links to reports and images of the events during the Birthday season.

 

November 22 2008

The dawn of the day saw hectic activity in Kulwant hall as the

Muddenahalli students worked in great zest and zeal to play what has

now become their annual role in the Convocation ceremony of the Sri

Sathya Sai University. Swami has chosen them to do all the decorations

for the ceremony for which He is the host! And everytime, they do a job

that fills Him with joy and satisfaction. By 1:00pm, the whole Sai

Kulwant hall wore a new look. The stage was tastefully decorated with

flowers of various hues. A beautiful arch decked with flowers bearing

the letters XXVII Convocation of Sri Sathya Sai University was placed

at the western end of the hall to welcome Swami. Another arch bearing

the same lettering embossed in gold was placed near the gate facing the

dais. At about 2:00pm, Swami came in the car to inspect the

arrangements.

All those students graduating on the day were seated in the

central marble block. Swami got down and with the first view of the

decked stage, He seemed overwhelmed. His face seemed to say, "It's so

beautiful!" He wanted to test the switch that would light up the

decorated board to mark the "Convocation being declared open" by the

Chancellor. As those lights came on, His face lit up! He then moved

along both, the right and left wing of the stage and inspected the

arrangements. When He came on stage, two students came up to Him with

the convocation robes. The post graduate students had a brown coloured

robe while the undergraduates had light blue. He saw the robes but

blessed the students! He then wanted to go to the eastern side of the

stage and for that He had to literally wade through the boys. Having

satisfied Himself that all was fine, Swami was about to leave when from

the corner of His eye, He saw an ex-student. Well, the concept of

ex-student is only from the University angle. As far as Swami is

concerned, once you are His student, you always remain asone. He called

him to His side and enquired about his well-being. He also asked him,

"How is the decoration?" The boy told the Truth - that it was

magnificent. Swami was so pleased and as they say, when God is very

happy, He bestows that look which fulfills all the desires of those on

whom that look falls on. It appeared to be that kind of a look! Then,

moving through the veranda where the roof had been decorated, He

reached the other end of the mandir. The veranda had been curtained

from public view and so His journey through it was like a ride in a

dark corridor. As He moved near His beloved students, they mobbed

around Him. Like bees hovering around a flower, they buzzed near Him

and Swami smiled warmly and spoke to some of them. Then, getting back

into the car, Swami drove back to Yajur Mandir.

The 27th Annual Convocation of Sri Sathya Sai University was

held as a glittering ceremony which it richly deserved for the yeomen

service it has been rendering in the field of education for more than a

quarter century now. This prestigious institution that promotes value

education with spiritual orientation - a chiseller of wonderful

students whom Swami prefers to address as future ambassadors - has

thousands of students in its alumni list who are engaged in relentless

service activities in different parts of the world. The regal

convocation procession began at 3.50 p.m. led by the students of

Institute Brass Band. They were followed by two students on either side

holding the sceptre with the Institute insignia embossed on it. The

Registrar of the University carried the ceremonial mace. Members of the

Governing Body and Members of the Institute Trust followed them. Swami

came out of the Yajur Mandir in a beautiful maroon robe and as always

was the shining star and life of the procession. As the procession

moved on Swami did something so wonderful and beautiful - something

that comes very naturally to Him.

Sitting on the chair, Swami was engulfed by the procession in

such a manner that surely none would be able to see Him when He arrived

into the Kulwant hall. So after being part of the procession for a few

moments, He asked to move out of it. as the entire procession entered

the Kulwant hall, He sat watching it. He told the photographers nearby,

"The procession has gone there. Go there and shoot.....Why here?"

Surely, He knows as well as anyone else why they were there and not

with the procession! Then He started. As the Sathya Sai part of the

University entered the hall, there was a huge burst of applause.

Whatever be the occasion or ceremony, the Lord remains the heartthrob

of His devotees. Swami moved gently through the rows of capped

graduates from both the mens' and women's campuses. Then, via the

'filled-to-the-capacity' marble block Swam made His way to the stage.

The revered chief guest this time was Prof.G.Venkatraman - a man of

superhuman achievements both in the scientific world and in Swami's

mission. Educated at the University of Madras, he had an illustrious

career. He has rendered yeoman service to the nation, starting his

career at the Bhaba Atomic Research Centre (BARC). He also held the

position of Director, Defence Research and Development Organisation

(DRDO). In recognition of his services, he was elected President of

Indian Physicist Association. He was also conferred Padma Shri by the

Government of India. Being the director of the Prashanthi digital

studios and the world renowned Radiosai broadcasts and moreover a true

instrument in the Lord's hands, it was no surprise that Swami had

decided to honour him with that prestigious position on this day. At

the outset, Prof. Vishwanath Pandit, the Vice Chancellor of the

University garlanded the Chief Guest Prof. G. Venkataraman. He also

welcomed the prominent guest from the UGC, the Vice Chairman of

University Grants Commission, Prof. Moolchand Sharma. The proceedings

began with the customary Vedic chant which has a lofty meaning to

consider the mother, father, preceptor and guest as God and hold them

in high esteem. The Vice Chancellor then requested the Chancellor,

Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba to declare the convocation open.

Swami held the mike and everyone in the audience- their

breath. With a sweet smile and even sweeter voice Swami said, "I

declare the Convocation open" and thunder seemed to strike the Kulwant

hall. There was genuine pure joy on every face as people applauded with

all their might. The Vice Chancellor then delivered his opening address

the highlight of which was the statement of the UGC committee that he

quoted, "Rather than the University having a need for the UGC, the UGC

needs the University." The candidates for the various degrees were then

presented to the Chancellor. The principal of the Sri Sathya Sai

University then administered the oath to the students. Then the gold

medallists recieved their most cherished dreams - the medal from the

Divine Hands! The feeling of a gold medallist as he/she goes on stage

to receive the medal from Swami is something that no other will

understand. If an actor gets the Oscar, a soldier- the ParamVir Chakra,

that joy is still lesser for this medal is gifted by Swami. It is as if

Swami is saying, "I am happy and proud of you my child." and that is

enough for this birth and later births too if any! The students made no

secret of that joy as they posed beside Swami for photographs after

getting the medal. Swami too smiled broadly at the photographers for He

knew that these pictures would be something that not only the

medallists but their generations to come would treasure and cherish.

This year 437 students received their degrees, 20 students were

decorated with gold medals by Bhagawan this year. 5 students had

completed their doctoral dissertations from the departments of

Mathematics, Physics, Finance (2 students) and Economics.

The Chief Guest of the Convocation Prof. G.V. Venkataraman

began his convocation address by expressing his gratitude to Bhagawan

for being conferred the honour of the Chief Guest of the 27th

Convocation. Prof. Venkataraman congratulated the grandaunts not for

only for their degrees, but mainly for being the students of Bhagawan.

His entire talk traced the wonderful story of the University

intertwined in which were the many love stories between Swami and His

students. One story will suffice as an example. When in 1975, the

Brindavan college was growing and the hostel was relatively small for

the students Swami wanted to build a spacious hostel near the sports

ground. All preparations were being made by Col. Joga Rao. A day before

the ground breaking ceremony, Swami came to hostel. Then a student gave

a letter to Swami and He read the contents of the letter asked the

student whether He could ask the warden to read the letter for the

benefit of others. The student readily agreed. He had expressed his

anguish at being separated from Swami. He had written, "Swami why are

you so upset that You are distancing us from You?" Swami was so moved

by the sincere prayer of this boy and He immediately changed the plans

to construct the hostel at that place. Instead the hostel was built

close to His residence. The erudite speaker said that the current

economic meltdown was due to the uninhibited consumerism without any

regard to moral values. And thus it is that the Sathya Sai University

gains profound importance. his talk moved many a member of the audience

to nostalgic and joyous tears of hope. As he completed his speech, he

received a loving congatulation from Swami. Then, Swami asked for His

mikes to be brought. Along with the mikes came a feeling of

anticipative joy in all. You can read Bhagawan's Discourse here.

 

Swami concluded His discourse with Hari Bhajana Bina. But there was

another beautiful thing that happened. Swami keeps telling, "My boys

are my voice." Today, after singing the first line, Swami told the boys

to lead! The whole bhajan was sung by the students as the rest of the

Kulwant hall followed. It was a wonderful feeling and Swami watched on

with a gleam in His eye. As that bhajan concluded, Swami told everyone

to rise for the national anthem. The Institute brass band struck up the

national anthem and everyone joined loudly in chorus. As the ceremony

concluded, announcement was made that in another 20 minutes there would

be a cultural programme by the students of the University - a play

"Divya Premashrayam", in the Poornachandra Auditorium.

Anand, an alumnus of Sri Sathya Sai University, rejects offers

from many top companies and decides to dedicate his youthful years in

uplift of villages. He chooses a village called Ramanathapuram for this

endeavor. There he joins forces with an educated and hardworking

youngster named Krishna for the hard task at hand. Anand gets a glimpse

of the difficulty ahead at his first meeting with the village elders.

During his arrival there is an altercation between two brothers on a

property issue. Anand attempts to resolve the issue by various means

and having gained their goodwill narrates the story of the two great

brothers from the Ramayana, Sri Rama and Bharatha.

Sage Vasishta and King Janaka are the arbiters between the two

brothers. On one hand there is Sri Rama who having got the command from

His father is firm that he will not return to Ayodhya till He completes

14 years in the forest. On the other side is Sri Bharatha who

emphatically states that only Lord Rama has the right to ascend the

throne and that he will take his brothers place in the forest. Sage

Vasishta raises his hands in surrender and says that he is incapable of

judging in this confrontation not between two brothers but between

Dharma (Righteousness) and Prema (Love) itself. He requests King Janaka

to do the honours. The Rajarishi then delivers a landmark judgment. He

informs Rama that in a battle between Dharma and Prema, Prema has to be

the victor. He then instructs Bharatha that though Prema is the victor,

Prema by definition is Selfless and hence he should ask what his

brother desires and act accordingly. The scene ends with Bharatha

taking the Padukas of his brother and agreeing to rule the kingdom as

the caretaker but not the king.

Moved by the story, the brothers decide to set aside their differences

and work together. What follows is a golden period for the village when

Ramanathapuram becomes a model village enriched with development and

communal harmony. However, the wheels of fortune turns and the village

is engulfed by ravaging floods and epidemics. The same people who lived

peacefully during all these years changed in the face of crisis.

Selfishness became the order of the day. Anand is devastated and in a

moment of severe introspection cries aloud to his Lord. He opens a book

of Bhagawan's message to his students and reads about the enthralling

story of Emperor Shivaji.

Faced with a severe crisis wherein his kingdom was becoming

weak internally and power of his enemies where growing exponentially,

Shivaji longs to call it a day and renounce his kingdom. At that

moment, Shivaji's guru, Sri Samartha Ramadas enters and offers to give

Shivaji renunciation. Shivaji surrenders his crown and sword to the

sage and accepts the ochre robes. On the enquiry of Sage Ramadas he

reveals that he feels extremely peaceful now. Content with the answer,

the holy one commands Shivaji to rule the kingdom on His behalf and

returns the crown to Shivaji.

Having learnt this lesson in non-doership, Anand is now the very

embodiment of peace and he feels confident that Swami will take care

and sets aside the burden from his shoulder. No sooner had he done

this, he learns that Swami has sent a contingent to the village to

rebuild the houses. The whole village gathers together again in

gratitude to Bhagawan. The story was based on the recent announcement

that Swami made about rebuilding the homes and infact the lives of

flood affected people in Orissa.

After the drama, Swami blessed the participants with group

photographs onstage before accepting Arati and retiring for the day at

8.20 pm. The group photograph session this time had a new flavour as

Swami posed for photographs with the "Sets ' boys" too as they are

called. And so scores of boys in black dresses surrounded The Orange

and had pictures taken. Swami then blessing everyone, moved backstage

and finally retired. An announcement was made about breakfast and lunch

being provided tomorrow free to all as Bhagawan's prasadam.

November 19 2008

Swami knew right from the beginning that redemption of a nation has to

begin with the redemption of its women and it was for this reason that

He began His massive educational revitalising with a womens' college at

Anantapur. In the same manner, He dedicated the 19th of November as a

day to recognise the rich contributions of women and ever since the

World Ladies' Day is celebrated with intensity on the 19th of the

Birthday month. Infact at many places, the 19th of every month is

observed as Ladies' Day. Ladies' day at Prasanthi Nilayam began with

the traditional Suprabhatam being sung by Smt. P. Susheela just before

5.30 am. Even the Veda chanting around Swami's mandir in the morning

was done by a women's contingent.

Kulwant hall seemed to be the bride today ready to receive her

Divine groom! Rows of lamps had been lined up on either side of the

path that Swami would be moving on. The brass band from Anantapur and

the bagpipes band from the Primary school stood in readiness to escort

Swami. There was also a Veda chanting group with the traditional Poorna

Kumbham. The marble block was filled with solar lamps, water filters

and blankets which Swami would be blessing to be distributed to the

needy in and around Puttaparthi. Swami arrived in Sai Kulwant Hall at

9.30 am in a procession led by the girls bands of the Anantapur campus

of the Sri Sathya Sai University and the Primary School, along with

Vedam chanting students, as a welcome song was aired. As He moved onto

the stage, He lit the lamp to mark the beginning of the day's

proceedings. He then sat on the ladies' side of the stage where a huge

picture of the Divine Mother Easwaramma rested, adorning the stage by

her son's side!

Ms. Chetana Raju delivering the introductory speech dwelled

upon the mystery of Divinity encased in human form. "Most of us live

and carry upon the surfus the wondrous workings of Bhagawan remarkably

unaware of the levels upon levels with which so much is going on. Who

is His instrument and who is not? What is God's work and what is not?",

asked the speaker. Reflecting on the right perspective one should

inculcate with our approach to Bhagawan, the speaker further added: "We

are opportunists whom Bhagawan gives 101 chances to serve and becoming

a servant. Our stay on earth is like a flicker of a candle placed

against eternity. It is He what He is today, and shall be Sri Sathya

Sai what He will be tomorrow. His name will echo in the heart of

creation for ever and ever, for eternity", concluded the speaker. The

second speaker for the session was Dr. Ankhi Mukherjee, an alumnus at

Anantapur Campus between 1984-1991. Ankhi Mukherjee started with a

meditation on knowing Bhagawan through the register of "vidya" and

spoke of "vidya" as the "portable property" she has carried away from

her years at the Institute. Describing her relationship with Bhagawan

as one of telepathy – both distant and intimate, from "tele" and

"pathos" of the same word, she discussed the implication of Women's

education for not just self-improvement, or the improvement of a class

of women, but for the overall improvement of women. The last speaker

was Sylvia Alden, from the US, a retired teacher, holding a Masters in

Special Education. In a moving speech packed with emotion and devotion,

she prayed to Swami: "Swami, I pray that the words of my mouth and the

meditations of my heart will be acceptable to You, my Lord and my All".

Dwelling upon the concept "Universal" and its dictionary meaning, the

speaker credited Bhagawan to be the universal solution. He is that

which exists and is true in all places and at all times and in all

situations as justice and beauty. She also stressed the fact that Swami

says, "Even the words I speak as a joke is TRUTH." but sadly we seem to

take that declaration itself in a light manner. She exhorted to all

that we should rise out of that foolishness.

As the speeches were completed, Swami blessed the distribution

to begin. The needy had been identified and were seated in lines. They

came up to the front and bowed to Swami before receiving the gifts of

Love from various ladies who had been blessed to do that noble deed of

giving. Swami's love is such that while He gives some the joy of

receiving gifts, He gifts the joy of giving to some others - but it is

sheer Joy that He gifts to all. And so it was that solar LED lanterns,

water purifiers, rugs and other items useful for the rural folk were

passed on to the recipients drawn from various parts of Anantapur

district. Swami sat watching the proceedings throughout. After that was

completed, Swami gifted something of which everyone is needy - Grace in

the form of 'sweet' prasadam! After prasadam distribution, Bhagawan

accepted Arati at 11.10 before returning to His residence.

In the evening, once again Swami was ushered into Sai Kulwant

Hall in a grand and elaborate procession, with another welcome song

played over the speakers, at 5 pm. When He completed the darshan rounds

and reached the Mandir, He moved to the Bhajan Hall where the children

from the Primary school were ready in costumes for their programme this

evening. The children were shining in their multicoloured dresses and

Swami's eyes seemed to light up seeing them. After a brief interaction

with them, Swami came onstage and started the programme for the

evening.

The evening session started off with a soulful rendering of

devotional music by Sunita, Surabhi Shravani and Smita. While it was a

home coming for Sunita after the wonderful opportunity during the Guru

Purnima, for the other two, it was the maiden venture - an opportunity

that they cherished and expressed as best as possible through their

music. Starting with an invocation prayer to Lord Ganesha,

"Shuklambharadharam Vishnum", they sang the famous "Sathyam Sivam

Sundaram", "Jagadi Sigadu", a patriotic piece, "Sri Rama Chandra

Kripalu", "Allah Tero Naam", "Vendi Ginneluka" and "Eashwar Ya Allah Ek

Pukaar...", receiving applause from the packed Sai Kulwant Hall. In

between, Swami went into the interview room for brief while but soon

returned with sarees to give the artistes. The joy that the singing in

Swami's presence bestows is such that one becomes oblivious to

everything else. That was the case with the three singers too and it

was Swami who made a sweet request, "Its enough now! The children are

waiting to perform." The beauty with Swami is that whether He tells

anyone to start singing or stop singing, they do it instantly with the

same joy! They concluded the concert and Swami gifted sarees to the

ladies and white safari pieces to the gents. As the musicians were

packing up, tiny tots came up the stage with cards, flowers and

presents.

The name of the dance drama was "Sai Vigrahavan Prema"

inspired from the famous statement, "Ramo Vigrahavan Dharma". Avatars

have come at different times with different missions and their glories

and their stories have become the life breath for multitudes

everywhere. Is it ever possible to bring these Gods on one stage

depicting their stories? This seemed to be the attempt by the students

from the Primary School through a dazzling display of light, music,

dance and drama in the fading light of the Ladies' Day evening. Their

70 minute dance-drama brought out the glory of Sai down the ages from

Krita Yuga till the present, with video projections on the back-drop

adding to the narrative. The narrative sifted between eras of time and

the different Avatars to highlight the glory of His story and the story

of His glory. Shown were episodes from Swami's childhood and dialogues

were borrowed from Swami's daily vocabulary of Telugu words and that

seemed to strike at the heart chords of the audience! The performers

ranged from the 12th standard girls till the little ones from 2nd or

3rd standard. The hardwork and sincerity of purpose and practise was

easily visible in all the performances and so it was no surprise that

Swami was very happy at the end of their performance.

He moved down the stage and posed with the children for

photos. All the girls came in small groups and sat by Him posing for

pictures. Some spoke to Him and many took padanamaskar. Granting joy to

all His children, Swami moved up the stage again. The children were all

in the centre of the marble block as both the divine mother,

Easwaramma, and The Divine Mother, Swami, seemed to look at them with

Love and Grace. Blessing them, Swami received Aarthi and retired to

Yajur Mandir.

 

November 18 2008 It is

tradition in Prashanti Nilayam that on 18th November every year, the

idol of of Venugopala Swami moves back to its origin in a chariot

procession lead by the idols of Lord Rama and Mother Sita. After

worship is offered to the deities, the idols of Rama, Lakshmana and

Sita return to the Mandir. Later, in the evening, the idols are taken

out in a procession in the village of Puttaparthi, amidst joyous

celebration by the villagers. And so, today too, the statues were ready

in the bhajan hall decked up and waiting for Swami to arrive. It was

after 9:20am that Swami came for darshan. He headed into the bhajan

hall after the darshan round. There were still huge crowds - spillovers

from yesterdays event and new arrivals for dear Swami's birthday.

Swami entered the bhajan hall and all the Veda students

gathered there began the chanting. Swami had a look at the idols and

the priest added on a few decorations in Swami's presence. Swami also

had a special crown that had been made for Venugopalaswami and so the

Krishna adorned with the flute was crowned with that pretty piece.

Aarthi was performed to the idols and Swami enquired into the

proceedings of the morning. The Sevadal volunteers then came up till

the idols and raised the palanquins on their shoulders. With the Veda

contingent leading the procession, the bhajan group boys also joined in

and heralded the statues towards the Gopuram gate of the mandir. Swami

moved out of the bhajan hall and saw the idols being taken out. He too

followed suit through the central path that was made between the boys

seated in the marble blocks. As Swami moved down, all the students took

the opportunity to touch Him in some way or the other and to many who

were trying to give letters to Him, Swami seemed to say, "I will take

them on my way back!"

Huge floral decoration rangolis adorned the floor and Swami

saw them intently as He passed by them. Then, through the Gopuram gate,

Swami too moved out on to the road. The whole world seemed to be

waiting for Him there as every inch of real estate had been taken up.

The balconies were brimming with people and devotees thronged whatever

place afforded them a view of their dear Lord. Many snapped pictures

for this was one of those rare times when they would be able to click

pictures of the Lord. Swami sweetly sat watching as the idols were

hoisted up on shoulders to their places in the chariot. He blessed

coconuts to be broken in front of the chariot and then had the camphor

waved at the idols. Blessing the procession to begin, Swami moved back

slowly to the mandir. As He was going back, the devotees from both the

ladies and gents side thronged from above sending down their

salutations at Swami as He was moving through the huge area behing the

Rama, Lakshmana and Sita statues in Kulwant hall. Swami looked up at

the devotees and blessed them. (He always looks up to His devotees!).

Keeping His promise, He collected letters from the students as He moved

through them into the interview room. He then returned to the bhajan

hall and asked for Bhajans to begin a few minutes before 10 o'clock.

The procession in the village was lead by the little Sathya

Geeta, followed Veda chanting and bhajans by group of students of the

Sathya Sai University. The whole village came out unitedly to

celebrate. There were women who poured water all along the way to wash

the path to be traversed and many more women came up in front to break

coconuts and pay homage. Children came running to just touch the

chariot as it is believed to be sanctifying. The youth were there

dancing and playing fast rhythms on the drums. On the whole, it was a

cheerfully noisy and colourful affair. Meanwhile, back at the mandir,

Swami sat outside for the bhajans that were on so that maximum people

could benefit from having His darshan. He called all the boys holding

trays and blessed them. After about 20-25 minutes, Swami went back into

the bhajan hall and soon, at about 10:30am, received Aarthi and left.

November 17 2008

And finally, the wonderful day dawned. A day for which everyone had

eagerly waited for and had borne with many hardships as though they

were great pleasures, a day which would get etched in the hearts of

people and humanity for times to come as a sample of the glory and

grandeur of God on earth. In an act of great Love and kindness, Swami

had agreed to arrive to the Yajnashala in the golden chariot! More

often than not when History is made, those that are part of it scarcely

realize its worth and magnitude. But that was not the case when History

("His Story, God's Story") was etched in Gold on Nov the 17th 2008 at

Prasanthi Nilayam. The significance of the occasion was not lost to the

thousands of devotees who had thronged to the Hill View Stadium. In the

wee hours of a chill November morning they waited for the Sun of their

lives to arrive. They yearned to celebrate His life that had presided

over a thousand moons, the thousand moons a metaphor. They had gathered

to celebrate His presiding over the minds (the mind is compared to the

moon) of men, directing the thought of the world towards goodness and

godliness.

People started filing in great numbers to the hill view

stadium. They came in all kinds of ways - by foot, in motor vehicles,

in cycle rickshaws, on crutches, in wheelchairs - you name it and it

was there. From all directions, people were headed towards the ground.

The name "Sairam" continously emanated from the lips and hearts of

everyone. The charging in the atmosphere must have been felt and one

could relive it throughout ones life. The speakers in the stadium were

pouring out songs specially recorded for the occasion by top artistes

in India - Shankar Mahadevan, S. P. Balasubramanyam and Hariharan. The

stands were full and people were just flowing in. Surely there would be

many many absentees on this Monday in offices everywhere for though not

a holiday, it was a holyday of unprecedented proportions. The golden

chariot was waiting in the Primary school premises. It surely would

have known the great privilege it was being granted this day. It seemed

to be sparkling with even greater shine and one felt that a smile could

be noticed on the faces of the golden horses that were drawing the

chariot. One just had to move through the crowds and the pulsating

energy and vibrating excitement could be felt. There was an

anticipative joy everywhere and everyone was aware that they were about

to witness something that would be passed down generations as a legend.

Generations to come would surely say, "My

(great)grandfather/grandmother/uncle/aunt saw the Lord on the golden

chariot!"

Swami arrived to the Primary school premises in the Porte car

and as He came out, everyone in the proximity let out gasps of joy as

the Lord was dressed in resplendent golden yellow. A mere sight of Him

moistened the eyes nearby and like a flash of lightning, news spread in

the stadium that the Lord was in the pitambara. The traditional

"control rod" of the chariot was presented to Swami and He accepted and

blessed it. This meant that He had granted His permission for the

chariot to move. A beautiful wooden lift got its own line in this

glorious page of history as it conveyed the Lord up the chariot. Once

Swami was seated, the gates were thrown open and the chariot began to

move. A wonderful song struck up the melody and everyone watched with

gaping mouths as Swami came out into the sun from the shade. The sight

of Swami on the Suvarna Ratham erupted goosebumps on the skin. It is

not even the slightest exxageration to say that even the sun seemed to

pale in front of that majesty. People began to shamelessly cry and

there were tears flowing generously everywhere. Everyone rose up and

stretched out their hands with palms facing Swami in order to grasp

some of that splendrous glory. No one seemed to know how to react.

Mothers and fathers burst out in tears. The children too were crying.

And at the same time, all were beaming their best smiles. Many old

people strained their eyes and exuded feelings that their lives had

been sanctified. A peaceful smile lit up their faces. But that was the

case even with the youngsters...and the women ....and the priests -

with just everyone who were witnessing it. It was a conglomeration of

powerful positive emotions. And amidst that powerful storm of emotions,

Swami sat so serene and beautiful, gently swaying His hands and a

lovely smile dancing on His lips. The sight in itself was maddeningly

beautiful and is one of those for which souls wait for births together

to view. A huge procession lead the chariot. The Institute brass band

and the students of the Vedam chanting were followed by the huge

tuskers and finally the baby Gita who also seemed to realize the

magnificence of the event.

Oh! What a sight it was, a sight for all mankind. The crowd

burst into raptures at so marvelous a scene. There were two Suns out

there; one up in the heavens and another upon the earth. Decked in

pleasing yellow, Bhagawan had made His appearance upon a golden

chariot. Dazzling and soothing alike, unmoved yet propelling, aloof but

alluring, a tender sunflower and a diamond studded in gold, grand and

godly the King arrived upon a hill of gold. The devotees gaped

openhearted, drinking every moment, to slake the thirst of their souls,

to imprint in their hearts a golden moment when the Lord arrived

gliding in gold. There were two Suns nay there were thousands; in the

glistening eyes of every devotee there was embossed the flame of gold.

Oh! What a sight it was, a sight for the gods.

In the villages it is said that if one wants to watch the sun

one gets ready to get ones eyes burnt. So one is advised to mix cow

dung in water and look at the reflection of the sun in that blackened

water. That way, one can watch the sun and also be safe. Looking at

Swami, the joy that would burst through ones being would make one just

drop down in sheer ecstasy. Like looking at the sun through its

reflection, it was enough to see the reflection of that sheer joy in

the faces of the devotees. They were absolutely crazed with joy. As it

was told by many later on, everyone felt that Swami granted them a

special glance. The omnifelicity that our Lord has to be added to the

list of His attributes of omnipresence, omnipotence and omniscience.

The chariot pullers on their part tugged it so very gently and slowly

and won the blessings of thousands who were blessed with that beautiful

darshan. How much ever is written, the feelings, emotions and spiritual

ecstacy that coursed through all cannot be captured. It was like being

transported into another surreal world completely devoid of worries of

any kind with only sheer joy to be offered to all. As the procession

moved on, Swami gently blessed the devotees assembled everywhere. And

His upraised hand today seemed to be conferring special blessings if

one were to read the reactions on the faces of those in whose direction

Swami blessed. Firecrackers exploded at the Hanuman statue but they

were reduced to a miniscule in effect compared to the explosions of joy

in hearts. It was definitely one of those times when the Lord out of

His infinite Love decides to confer on all, irrespective of all

distinctions, a blessing that would transform them for times to come -

a blessing that has no reason or rationale for that is the nature of

Divine Love. Personally, the writer feels that he has not seen anything

grander in his life nor would he ever see it again, unless of course

Swami repeats History or His Story as He refers to it! The Sanathana

Sarathi was in His chariot and what else is there to be said?

18 Divine minutes, of some of the most beautiful times since

the Big Bang, later Swami reached the stage. There, before moving onto

the stage, Swami sat on the chariot watching the thousands and

spreading that aura of uncontrollable joy to all. Then He slowly moved

onto the stage where He was welcomed by the traditional Poornakumbham.

Earlier the proceedings for the final day began at 6:30 a.m. with

ganapathi pooja and special sankalpa for the homam. Rithwicks in groups

gathered around the 10 homa kundas offering ghee and boiled rice with

the accompaniment of vedic chanting, that went on for almost 2 hours.

After Swami entered the Yajna Vedika, this being the concluding day,

the Lakshminarayana Poornahuti was performed for the Yajna. The priests

chanted sacred Vedic Mantras in unison, Veda chanting students chanted

Sri Rudra Prasna, Purusha Suktam, Sri Suktam and Durga Suktam as Swami

was giving Darshan to devotees from the Vedika. And Swami was just the

same sweet self moving to all corners and sides of the Vedika granting

darshan. Another feature on this day was the wide array of

Mathadipathis (heads of Maths) from different Maths of India. These

luminaries are the heads of prominent Maths in India. They had come to

share in the joy of this auspicious function and were also privileged

to share the dais with Swami. They were: Sri Sri Sri Dr. Shivakumara

Swamigalu, Head of Sri Siddaganga Math, Tumkur - a nonagenarian who

also spoke a few words in Kannada on this occasion, Sri Jagadguru

Madhwacharya Mahasamsthana Pejawara Mathadeesha H.H. Sri Vishwesha

Tirtha of the Dwaitha Matha, Sri Sri Sri 1008 Sri Sushameendra Thirtha

frpm the Mantralayam Peetham, Sri Jagadguru Kanchi Kamakoti

Peetadhipathi Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Swamigal. Sri Vilasrao Deshmukh,

Chief Minister of Maharashtra also had the privilege of sharing the

dais with Bhagawan and he sought His blessings.

The head priest then came forward to seek Bhagawan's blessings

to go ahead with the poornahuti (final offering marking the end of the

holy sacrifice). Bhagawan consented and then proceeded to each of the

12 fire pits to personally supervise the poornahuti. Flowers, fruits,

cereal, clothes along with copious amounts of ghee were offered to the

presiding deities accompainied by holy chants. With Bhagawan going

around to each of the pits, it appeared as if He personally arrived to

accept the offerings being made to Him. He would sit sweetly braving

the smoke and He then materialised a golden chain for the priest at the

end of the whole exercise. The poornahuti done, Bhagawan went about

inspecting the Sooryanamaskars(prostrations to the Sun God),

Sundarakanda parayana(Recital of the glory of Hanuman from The Valmiki

Ramanaya) that had been diligently conducted for over three days.

Having profusely blessed all the participants and satiated all, He went

and seated Himself at the front of the stage from where He could be

viewed by the thousands that had thronged to the Hill View stadium. The

seers seated at the rear end of the stage followed and the front of the

stage was now decorated with revered pontiffs with the Lord in their

midst. It was so wonderful to see the bright yellow amidst the row of

saffron. The various seers proceeded to personally to pay their

respects to Bhagawan and offer Him gifts of behalf of their sects. The

TTD(Thirumala Thirupati Devasthanam) Trust offered a Bhagawad Geeta.

This most auspicious and holy function concluded with Jaikars –

Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba Ki Jai and the offering of Arati to

Bhagawan at 11.00 a.m. Simultaneously, a helicopter came hovering above

dropping confetti and paper stars to add to the colour of the occasion.

The teertham from the occasion was also dropped on all the devotees

from the helicopter.

The afternoon programme was scheduled at 5:00 pm in the

evening at the Kulwant Hall. Bhagawan arrived at 4:30 pm in a chair. He

proceeded to take a complete round through the devotees on both the

sides before seating Himself on the stage. On the stage was set the

resplendent idol of Lord Sri Krishna and Rukmini. The afternoon's

proceeding was the symbolic and ceremonial marriage of Lord Sri Krishna

and Rukmini. Bhagawan watched intently as the priest conducting the

nuptial ceremony went through the proceedings in accordance with the

Hindu marriage ritual. The significance of the event was to proclaim

the union of Prakrithi(Mother Nature) and Paramathma(God). After the

elaborate ceremony Bhagawan proceeded to give away gifts to the priests

who had conducted the entire ritual. he Mangalasutrams (Mangalasutram

means an auspicious thread or cord or gold necklace) for the celestial

wedding was first shown by a priest to the entire audience on either

side. Then the gold necklaces were placed on the arm of Lord Krishna.

After some time, the necklaces were removed and worn round the neck of

Rukmini and Sathyabhama. Thus, the ceremonial wedding was performed to

the thunderous applause of devotees. Flower garlands were exchanged

between the idols of Sri Krishna and Rukmini and Sathyabhama. After

this, there was a brief period of chanting of Sama Veda by the priests.

Mahamangala Arati was offered to the idols at the end of this ceremony.

The priests chanted Vedic Mantras religiously standing in front of Sai

Krishna. Bhagavan blessed the priests with mementoes. He then

materialised a gold chain for the head priest of the Yajna, Sri

Lakshminarayana Somayaji. Bhagawan went amidst the priests of the

Yajna.Then, as is His wont, (He can never stop giving) He went around

giving a bonus round of darshan to the priests and then to all the

devotees too.

After the Rukmini Kalyanam, there was a concert by Ms.

Mahalakshmi Iyer and party. She began her performance with a Marathi

song, a song dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Guru (preceptor). Her second

song was a Mira Bhajan and her third song was a composition for

occasion, Sahasra Poorna Chandra Darshana Mahotsavam, the meaning of

which was, "As long as there is water in the Ganges, may the Lord

Sathya Sai live!). Whatever the world may say, I should always love and

worship You. I should always cling on to Your Lotus Feet." Some more

popular songs followed culminating with the song, "Damadam Mast

Kalandar …" which enlivened interest in the audience. One could see the

audience joyfully clapping to the song. Swami then called the Malladi

brothers to come and occupy the stage. They were quick to follow His

instructions. Starting their performance with "Radha Sameta Krishna …",

they followed it up with a livelier song, "Shambo Mahadeva ..." in

Panthuvarali raga. And then, the masterplan of the Lord became evident

as all the pundits and scholars seated in the front began to sway and

sing alongside them brothers as these were all songs that they knew

well by heart! The brothers' concert of just 15 minutes met with

vociferous following and the fact that they were in telugu only added

to their popular appeal. As they concluded, Swami gifted sarees and

clothes to the first performers and then even to the latter performers

too. Prasadam was distributed to all the devotees in the end. The Arati

for this memorable day was offered at 8.10 p.m. Thus, concluded the

grand and glorious Sahasra Poorna Chandra Darshana Mahotsavam festival

which will ever remain etched in the hearts of everyone present at

Prasanthi Nilayam.

November 16 2008

The second day of the Yajna had a different kind of start. If it was

the sun that came out early to see Him yesterday, it was the turn of

the clouds and rain to do so today. The day was a Sunday but it stopped

at that! From early in the morning, what began as heavy showers reduced

to a gentle drizzle that went on and on. But that could not dampen in

the least the spirits of the devotees. In this context, it is important

that we flashback to a few weeks earlier when Swami was inspecting the

stage being constructed. At that time, Swami had suddenly asked about

what would be the case if it happened to rain during the yajnam. People

were taken aback a bit because rains in the heart of winter at

Puttaparthi are something that are rare if not absent. And even if it

would rain, it would be so less that a least bit of protection would

suffice. As Swami Himself declared during His Vijayadashami discourse,

"Sathyanarayana does not speak even one word lightly. It is always

Truth, Truth and Truth." He knew that the heavens would open out for

even the gods above would have loved to be a part of this grand event!

As stated before, the rains could do nothing to wash away the

enthusiasm of the devotees for pouring down on Parthi greater than the

rains were the flocks of devotees as it was the weekend too. Anything

that could afford some protection from the rains was used by the

devotees. Umbrellas, raincoats, plastic bags and even kerchiefs were

used as defense against the rain. The rains also induced camaraderie

and unity as dozens of people spread huge plastic sheets above them and

held them that way as they moved about in herds. Umbrellas dotted the

huge stands and it was so amazing to see that people still wanted to

catch the front seats and await the Lord. Meanwhile, the huge screens

in Kulwant hall also were active in case anybody wanted to sit in the

shelter there and have a look at the proceedings going on. The

proceedings on the stage were different from the ones yesterday.

Two main rituals for the second day of the Yajna were

Satharudra Abhishekam and Maha Mrithyunjaya Homam. Satharudra

Abhishekham was performed to the Sayeeshwara Lingam that was

consecrated during the Ati Rudra Maha Yajna held in the year 2006.

Abhishekham was done to the linga with milk, curds, clarified butter,

turmeric paste, sugar, vibhuthi (holy ash), coconut water etc. Maha

Rudrabhishekam is performed invoking greater benediction from Lord

Rudra. As each of these items were offered under strict religious

discipline with accompaniment of vedic mantras, the Linga that was

charged by the Divine hands during the Atirudra was shining in

splendour evoking nostalgic memories. The Sarva Veda Shaka parayanam

(where all the branches of the Vedas come together) was also on.

It was about 9:30am as Swami arrived and hey! There were two

huge tuskers waiting to welcome Him. The pachyderms, procured from

Kerala, were well trained and they stood in all their might and glory

on either side of the Vedika. As Swami came out of the car, a colourful

and wide umbrella was held above Him denying Varuna devata (the God of

water) His chance of sparshan with the Lord! But He satisfied him too

as He took on the fine microdroplets that fell on Him, bouncing off the

nearby surfaces. Swami then came on stage and everything seemed to

gather josh and momentum. The students chanting especially became so

charged and they drowned all other chanting on the stage. Very soon

Swami was at the centre of things and the stage when his holiness

Parama Pujya Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda Swamiji, the Pontiff of

Avadhoota Datta Peetham at Sri Ganapati Sachchidananda Ashrama in

Mysore, came on stage paying obeisance to Swami. He was escorted to

Swami and Swami blessed him with a smile. He enjoyed the rare honour

and privilege of sitting on a chair beside Swami and was also blessed

with a few words from Him.

As is the case always, Swami's heart was with His devotees.

And the fact that they were enduring the rain to just glimpse Him made

Him get irresistably attracted to the stage front. It was a sight to

see. As Swami reached there, all the umbrellas raised higher and

plastic sheets got dropped as people prostrated from their places to

Him. Swami was saying, "Paapam" seeing that the people were getting

wet. It was minutes after that and the drizzle also subsided. The

tuskers, trained in the temple traditions, raised their trunks in

salute to Swami and the crowd cheered this act of the huge tusked

mammoths. Swami seemed amused as He saw them perform the pranam without

even being aware of what they were doing (or maybe they were aware and

it is we who think that it was their training that made them do so!).

Whatever be the case, it was a wonderful sight. The stage atmosphere

was magnificent what with 150 priests sitting around chanting vedic

mantras and performing rituals along with 150 boys chanting the

powerful Rudram. Once again, like yesterday, Swami moved to various

sides and corners of the stage, blessing devotees gathered there and

having a look at the rituals being performed.

The Maha Mrithyunjaya Homam was done, invoking immortality for

all the living beings. The two hour long homam was done by the Chief

Priest for the Yajnam. With the accompaniment of holy chants and with

Swami presiding over, Poornahuthi was offered to the Yajna Purusha.

This whole Yajna has been called the "Vishwa Prapancha Maha Yajna" as

it is being done for the welfare of all humanity. It was 10:30am when

Swami retired to Yajur Mandir.

The evening saw Swami entering the swelled up Kulwant hall at

4:40pm. As Swami came to the dais, the priests started abhishekam

(ceremonial sacred bath) of the idols of Lord Krishna and Rukmini and

Sathyabhama (the consorts of Lord Krishna). The abhishekam was done

with religious fervour, chanting of Vedas by students and priests. As

the ceremonial bathing of the idols with milk, curd, honey, diluted

sandal paste, tender coconut and Kumkum continued in the traditional

way, the students chanted Sri Rudram, Purusha Suktam, Sri Suktam, Bhu

Suktam and Narayana Upanishad from the Vedas. After each ceremonial

bathing with water, the idols were dried with soft cloth and arati was

offered to the Lord. Lord Krishna with His consorts was garlanded with

different types of garlands. If it was Tulasi (basil) garland one time,

it was a fragrant rose garland next time. With such scrupulousness and

devotion, the entire ritual was performed. An LED screen placed at the

eastern side of the Hall, gave a view of the entire landscape of the

proceedings. After completing the abhishekams, elaborate decoration was

done on the idols. It was sight to watch the Lord and His consorts

adorned with jewels and gems of exquisite beauty and diadems on the

head. After this, it was the turn of Sahasraavadhani Medasani Mohan,

another erudite scholar to conclude the proceedings of the Bhagavata

Saptaham. He dilated at length on Sri Krishna Leela, right from the

Lord's birth to His killing of demons and His childhood pranks.

If it was the mellifluous rendition of Priya sisters

yesterday, it was the beautiful compositions and their singing in

ornate style by Malladi Brothers from Vijayawada today. All their songs

were sung in Carnatic classical style. Bhagawan released a DVD "Sai

Naada Jhari" sung by the brothers. As it was being released, a song

from the album, Sai Namasmaranam Sada Rupa Dhyanam was played on the

public address system. Their father who also happens to be their Guru

gave a lead to the songs in the form of verse in a melodious manner.

They sang out many renditions of the poems composed on Swami by the

devotee poet Santhisri Jandhyala Papaya Shastri. Ramadas and Thyagaraja

kirtans adorned their presentations. One beautiful composition that won

many accolades was one which said, "Swami I have taken your Grace and

blessings in times of misery without your knowledge. I am thus a thief

and so please hold me and never let me go!" Among other songs, the song

for the occasion was Sathya Paritraana, Dharma Paala, Santhi Varada,

Prema Swarupa Sai… This raga "Sai Chandrika" needs special mention here

as it was invented by Malladi Brothers themselves. Sai Chandrika is the

derivative of Kokila Priya Raga, which is the 11th raga in the list of

72 Mela Kartha Ragas (fundamental ragas) in the Carnatic School of

Music. Since it is the 83rd Birthday of Bhagawan, the 11th raga in

Carnatic music, i.e., 83 subtracted by 72 Mela Kartha Ragas was chosen

as the raga for this song.

As they concluded their concert, Swami blessed them with silk

clothes. He also blessed prasadam to be distributed to all before

receiving Aarthi and leaving.

 

November 15 2008 The

much awaited day of the Sahasra Poorna Chandra Darshana Mahayajna

finally arrived. The sun also seemed to be in a hurry to some out and

see the beginning of the day! Crowds were slowly flowing into

Puttaparthi and though the resources available in the Spiritual capital

of the Universe had not yet been tested to the hilt, massive

preparations were on for the inflow that was expected especially for

the concluding day. If one has the chance to go through reservations

archive of the roadways and railways to Puttaparthi and Bangalore, and

the Airways to Bangalore during this season, one would notice a waiting

list that was only the tip of the iceberg of the "waiting list" of

people wanting to be here for the occasion. And all this is only

because of the interest that Swami has taken up for this Yajnam. And He

has taken so much interest because this Yajnam is for the welfare of

humanity. It is a self-reinforcing circle of Love- the Lord jumps in

whenever and wherever the devotees' welfare is concerned and for the

devotee, welfare lies wherever and whenever the Lord jumps into any

activity!

Apart from the arrangements for food and shelter for the inflow of

devotees at the mandir, massive preparations had been made for the

devotees at the venue – the Vidyagiri stadium- itself. Huge screens had

been erected which could be seen easily and clearly even in broad

daylight so that the activities of the Lord could be "magnified" to the

"correct scale" for all to see! The sound systems were sound and

seating arrangements were elaborate. The entire ground had been covered

with waterproofing polymer material and it looked like a giant neatly

trimmed lawn. There was a temporary medical centre with qualified

doctors to attend over any small illnesses like nausea and headaches.

It had only basic medicines but the general hospital and Super

Specialties hospital nearby continued to work with the staff

sacrificing the joys of seeing Swami for the joy of serving Him in

devotees, and that more than made up the elaborate and wholesome

complete medical attention that the devotee might have needed. All

gates were thrown open and "welcome all" was the body language of the

never tiring and ceaselessly working seva dal. The arrangements for the

residence, food and rest for the priests themselves were complete and

more on the gratifying than a satisfying note!

Coming to the actual proceedings of the day itself, Swami

arrived to the hill view stadium shortly after 9 am in the Porte car.

The energy and enthusiasm levels just shot up. With a mere sight of the

gray of Swami's car, all the grayness of the morning got replaced with

the vibrant colours of love and adulation for the Lord. Swami's car

slowly moved on the road alongside the ladies galleries and reached the

lift on the western end of the stage. As Swami came out, an orange dot

in the huge stadium, all the giant screens came alive with His form and

the crowd rejoiced. In fact it was a beautiful sight to see the car on

the road and the car in the screen too as the car actually passed by

the screen. Swami slowly came onto the lift and soon was on the stage.

Simultaneously crackers went off at the Hanuman statue in celebration

of His arrival.

The stage setting too was something so grand and divine that

any description will not be able to give the complete idea. The eyes

would have to see the myriad colours of the flowers and the beautiful

form of Lord Venkateshwara completely bedecked with flowers and jeweled

finery right in the centrestage. The ears would have to hear to the

chants of the priests and Swami's beloved students who were rightly

charged up from the minute one! That combined with the music and the

naadaswaram seemed to conjure some celestial harmony. The nose would

have to breathe in the wafting fragrance of the incense and the fresh

fruits and flowers. The tongue would have to taste the sweetness of the

name that pervaded the entire stage and the skin would have to sense

the powerful vibrations that seemed to resound and resonate with the

gently twirling of Swami's hands. And now, to get an idea of what it

felt on the stage, all of the above would have to be combined and felt

in an instant!

Swami was welcomed onstage with the Poorna Kumbham amidst

chanting by the priests and the students. Swami moved through the stage

blessing all the ritwiks who had gathered there. As He neared the

students, He had a tiny smile that escaped the corner of His lips – He

was proud and that pride stemmed from the fact that His students had

mastered the Vedas and were today chanting on the same level alongside

the ritwiks from all over the country. Once He reached the shrine in

the centre of the stage, He gave permission for the Yajnam to begin.

Morning rituals had included the chanting of the names of Lord Ganesha,

the Lord who removes obstacles, one lakh times followed by Sahasra

Modaka Ganapathi Homam by 62 Rithwiks from the Sringeri Sharada Peetam.

This was followed by Shatha Rudra Abhishekam and Navagraha Japam —

chanting of 10,000 names for each of the nine grahas, which will

continue till evening. Of the 12 homa kundas only three were lit for

the day, one each for Maha Ganapathi Homam, Sudarshana Homam and Maha

Mruthyunjaya Homam. Lakshmi Narayana Puja was performed to the main

deity of Sahasra Poorna Chandra Darshanam. Now, the number of rituals

performed on the stage is so vast in their content and significance

that one can go on writing about them for volumes. Let us concentrate

on Swami's reactions and actions instead.

After a few minutes in the center, Swami wanted to grant darshan to all

the devotees who had gathered there braving the heat of the sun and

tedium of waiting for hours to see their sweet Lord. Forgive the

inappropriate language! For the devotee, waiting for the Lord is never

tedious. The very thought of the sight of the Lord seems to tingle

energy into the enervated nerves and muscles. Swami moved till the very

end of the stage and as He saw his beloved devotees sitting, His eyes

lit up. There was such a joyous response on the devotees' side too. The

Lord and His devotees seem to become one, lost in the bliss of seeing

each other. Swami was the sun from whom the green lawns of the devotees

derived their life from! After a while, Swami moved slowly on the

stage. Everywhere, some activity was on and those chanting were lost in

their own worlds. The time then came for the sacred fire to be lit. The

priests came together and the ceremonial churning and rubbing of wooden

blocks to produce fire in the most natural way began. The experience

during the yajnam at Dusshera is that the fire springs to life in a

minute o two. But today, the "spark" seemed to be missing! After the

sweaty efforts of half a dozen or so priests, the sweet Lord

volunteered, "Shall I bless?" It was then that the to-be embers were

brought up for His blessings. The touch of that Hand that has lighted

up many lives brought life into the embers too and in a few moments

after that, the "spark" seemed to have arrived! The wisps of smoke came

and the fledgeling fire was held up for all to see. Finally, the Yajna

kundam was roaring and alive.

Swami then continued His rounds to various corners of the

stage. His sole concern seemed to be for those souls seated in the

stadium pining to see Him. He moved through the priests and along the

students chanting the Vedas. Then, cutting through them, He arrived at

the east side of the stage and sitting by the receptacles holding

waters of all the holy rivers, became the ocean into which all the

rivers of devotion from the gents side merged into. He then moved to

the western side of the extended Shanti Vedika and mirrored the actions

performed at the other side. He blessed the ladies this time and they

were so happy. Just there were priests who were performing the sashtang

namaskars (lying fully prostrate). Swami sat for a while watching them

as they went about religiously and athletically performing it. They

stood on one leg and revolved around 360 degrees many times. Then they

did what can be called as the religious equivalent of the athletic

pushups. Seeing the rigour they were going through, one could not help

but well in gratitude for the simple ways of pleasing the Lord that

Swami has prescribed for all of us. Swami continued moving around and

spoke to some of the ritwiks. All of them were vying for a picture with

Him and it was indeed an amusing sight to see the Vedic ritwiks take

out mobile phones to take His picture! Anything done to capture God is

justified! Swami similarly moved to the back side of the stage where

more rituals were in progress. He cast His gracing glance on all and it

was indeed a very fulfilling feeling for everyone.

The Poornahuthi or complete offering to the sacrificial fire

was done. Each day, different Homams were scheduled and their

respective poornahuthis would be done on that day itself. The priest

came with the offerings bundle to Swami and Swami blessed it to be

lowered into the fire. After spending more than 90 minutes going around

the different parts of the stage and blessing the entire congregation,

Swami accepted Arati at 10:25 am before the Lord retired to His Divine

Abode. The Navagraha Japam continued till 12:30 pm. In the afternoon,

Sudarshana Japam has been scheduled to be from 3:30 to 6:30 pm, and

Sundarshana Homam from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

In the afternoon, Swami arrived at Sai Kulwant Hall at 5.20

pm. He moved through the ladies side and it was the detour through the

Primary children then. The penultimate day of the Bhagawatha Saptaham

it was and the decoration of Govardhanagiri (Lord Krishna lifted the

Govardhana hill to save the cowherds of Vrindavan from prosecution by

Indra, the Lord of devas and rain) was done on the idol of Venugopala

Swami. The idol was beautifully placed on a swing, with priests

continuously swaying the Lord. After 15 minutes, the speaker for the

day was introduced. Dr. Rajagopala Chakravarthy spoke for an hour on

the stories of Ambareesa and Kuchela, with references to nuances from

other Shastras. King Ambarishas story is another powerful reminder of

the fact that the Lord can be won only by love and devotion and that

only the devotee is more strong than the Lord! Sage Durvasa famous for

his anger, loses temper when the king breaks his fast so the auspicious

time is not past by sipping a few drops of water before the sage has

eaten. When he creates a demon to kill the king, the chakra of Lord

Vishnu appears and annihilates the demon and almost does the same to

sage Durvasa too but he is saved as he falls at Ambarisha's feet.

Kuchela or Sudama was Krishna's poor friend whom the Lord remembered

and redeemed. The Lord never forgets anyone.As the speaker concluded,

Swami created a gold chain for him. As he gratefully fell at Swami's

feet and accepted the chain, Swami showered him with clothes and

blessed him.

The next programme was a classical Carnatic concert by the

Priya sisters - Shanmukha Priya and Hari Priya. The Priya sisters began

their concert at 6.30 pm and sang for nearly an hour.The first song was

an invocation to Lord Ganesh in Raga Naatai – Mahaganapatim

Manasasmarami. That seemed only like a warm up for what was to come.

They sang many popular songs and to name a few - To name a few:

Bantureeti Koluviyyavayya Rama… sung in Hamsa Nada Raga, Mudakarata

Modakam Sadavimukti Sadakam… in Yamuna Kalyani Raga, Jo Achudananda Jo

Jo Mukunda… in Neelambari Raga. This song, which is specifically sung

as a lullaby song, had a special significance today evening as the Lord

Venugopala Swami was being continuously swayed in the swing. The

highlight song however was a bhajan - Jai Maa Jai Maa Jagadeshwari Sai

Maa. The timing of that bhajan was such a divine drama.

As the sisters sat on that part of the stage which had the rods in

front blocking the view, the cameraman giving the live feed into the

huge display screen in Kulwant hall seemed to struggle to get a good

view to be screened for all to see. At precisely that moment, Swami

said that He wanted to go into the interview room. Taking this break,

the cameraman readjusted and within minutes there was a good view on

the screen. All were happy to witness on the big screen what they could

never see with their eyes. And exactly then, Swami came out of the

interview room and the sisters began that bhajan. Swami had a sweet

smile on His face and that was picture perfect for the outpouring of

devotion and emotions that the raga of that bhajan elicits from the

listeners and singers alike! As they completed their concert, Swami

blessed them with sarees and photos. It was 7:30 pm as Swami retired to

Yajur mandir.

 

November 13 2008 The

morning of the third day saw Swami arriving to the mandir in the chair

and went around for a complete darshan round. Those seated on the gents

side would have definitely rejoiced this change of route after quite a

few days of detour. Swami went through the portico and then came on the

front stage and moved slowly across the shrine with the idols. He then

went into the bhajan hall for bhajans. As bhajans concluded and Aarthi

was being sung, Swami moved out of the Kulwant hall towards the stadium

where the stage was almost finished.

The lift had been put in place and the roof of the Yajna area

wore a regal look. Just as Swami approached the dais, the power supply

bowed out - maybe in honour of the greatest "power" supply that was

headed towards the stage! Providence as the world calls it or Swami's

Grace in the Sai devotee's dictionary, ensured that a diesel motor

engine powered vehicle with the makeshift lift was also present and it

got the blessing of transporting Swami up to the stage. Once on stage,

Swami was surrounded by all the main and important members of the Trust

and they were all eager to ensure that Swami was happy with all the

preparations being made. Swami went around the yajnakundams and was

very particular in finding out what place had been alloted for Him to

sit. "Swami, one place is right in the centre of the stage", it was

suggested. Swami went to the actual Shanti Vedika, off the newly

constructed platform, and had a look. The sight of Swami against the

huge backdrop of Krishna and Arjuna in a magnificent chariot being

pulled by powerful stallions was really thrilling. Swami had a brief

glimpse of the room that had been made for Him. But all the while,

something seemed to be on His mind. As we see it now, it was the fact

that He had not found a spot from where all devotees could see Him. He

moved right to the front edge of the stage. All the students and others

who had gathered to see Him were down there and their faces lit up as

Swami came there. Seeing this, Swami also seemed pleased and satisfied.

He had found a place from where He could see all His beloved devotees

and from where all could see Him too. As He was moving around all the

workers atop the stage had close darshan and many of them were blessed

with a personal and personalized smile from Swami! As Swami moved to

the western end of the stage, He stopped and gently looked up. Then and

there, right before everyone's eyes, a piece of the decorative plywood

from the top crashed down with a thud. Swami was the centre of calm

among the sea of storm. The beauty of Divinity is that it guides,

foretells, warns and finally congratulates for a job well done! The

warning before the congratulations that He surely will give seemed to

have been served. "Take care of the tiniest of the details. It is

inappropriate to say that the devil is in the details. Perfection and

God lie in the details!" seemed to be the message. Swami then descended

the stage and drove back to Yajur Mandir.

The evening sessions were dominated by the stories of the Lord

as the Bhagawatha Parayanam continued in full zest and vigour. Swami

arrived and after half a round, moved to the stage. Swami then got

started the proceedings with the puja by the Tirupati priests for a few

moments followed by the introduction of the speaker for the day -

Tribhasha Sahasravadhani V. Padmakar garu. The topic for the day was

one that is very close to Swami's heart - the story of little

Prahalada. Prahalada was the son of the demon Hiranyakashipu who had

boons that made him immortal- atleast he thought that way. Like a

single ray of light that dispels the darkness existing in a room for

centuries, Prahalada illumined everyone with his intense faith and love

for Vishnu. His story is witness to the fact that the Lord will

tolerate anything done against Him, but touch His devotee and its all

over. Lord Vishnu took up the terrible Narasimha avatar and annihilated

Hiranyakashipu. The faith of the little boy is awe-inspiring and Swami

seemed so touched and happy throughout the narrative. As the 75 minute

long talk concluded, Swami materialised a beautiful gold chain for the

speaker and put it round his neck. He also gifted him with silk

clothes. Then He received Aarthi and blessed prasadam to be distributed

to everyone. The concluding poojas for the idols were performed after

Swami retired.

The morning of 13th, Swami did not come out for the morning

session. It also happened to be the concluding day of the Grama seva

being done by the students. As a fitting finale, the seva was carried

out for the inmates of the Ashram. This concept is so beautiful for in

all of our homes too, the host eat last after ensuring that everyone

have had their fill to their hearts content. But another wonderful

thing that happened on this day was the supreme boon that Swami

bestowed on the members of the family of His physical frame.

Swami permitted the family members to gather for a private

function in His residence at Yajur mandir. It was a very warm and

homely ceremony. Aarthis were taken and other religious items waved at

the Lord to ward off the "evil eye" as it is called. The Lord belongs

to the whole Universe equally but it is really the blessings of God and

the merits of many previous births that one gets the opportunity to be

born in the same family as the Lord. Though Sri Krishna belonged to and

loved everyone equally, the Yadavas were His family members and that

was something unique and special. As the ceremony went on, Swami sat

sweetly receiving the offerings and the Padapooja (worship of His lotus

feet). He spoke to the members of the family and lovingly advised them

as the eldest in a family should and would. It was an entirely new

facet of Swami on display. He was now the Uncle, Father and Grandfather

all rolled into one. He posed lovingly for pictures and the members of

the family were grateful for this chance of many lifetimes that Swami

conferred on them. Swami also had wonderful lunch prepared for all of

them. Really, one has so much to learn from the Lord. Every moment with

Him is a lesson on how one must live ones life - happy and contented

always and spreading the same to everyone who comes into contact with

him/her.

The evening saw the exposition of the "Gajendra Moksha story

by the scholar, Bachampalli Santosha Kumara Shastri. He had been

introducing the speakers daily and so Swami called on His translator,

Prof.Anil Kumar to introduce him to the audience. The talk centred

around the story of the mighty elephant-king, Gajendra, who is caught

in the ferocious jaws on a crocodile. When all fails, the elephant

calls out to the Lord who then arrives on the scene and rescues him. As

has been through the last three days, people sat listening to him in

rapt attention. Swami was there for all the 70 minutes on the stage.

The greatness of these speakers lie in the manner in which they

extrapolate the stories to our day to day lives and draw inspiring

lessons for all. As he concluded, Swami materialised a gold chain and

presented it lovingly to the speaker. He requested Swami for a picture

with him and Swami agreed to it. He also gifted Him with silk clothes.

Aarthi was then performed and Swami moved towards Yajur Mandir.

Again at Yajur Mandir, lamps had been lit forming the outline

of the Shivalinga. The ladies from the family did Aarthi to Swami and

sought His blessings. Smilingly showering HIs blessings on them Swami

went into the residence.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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