The Sri Sathya Sai Educational Institutions held the main event of the Annual Sports & Cultural Meet on 11 January 2020 at Sri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium, Prasanthi Nilayam, Andhra Pradesh, India.

The event is a culmination of various sports, cultural, and fine-arts competitions held at all campuses of the University and other Sai educational institutions throughout the academic year. The Sri Sathya Sai educational institutions include all the four campuses of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, Sri Sathya Sai Primary and Higher Secondary School, Smt. Eswaramma High School and Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences (SSSIHMS) College of Nursing & Allied Health Sciences.

It showcases an array of physical and cultural presentations by over 3000 students of the institutions spread across two sessions, morning and evening. Preparations, which began a month in advance, involved hundreds of practice hours by all students and teachers at each institution.

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Process over outcome

The Annual Sports & Cultural Meet brings to the fore several qualities of human excellence in students. With only a few weeks to perfect their presentations, and with academics and other daily pursuits, students have to make every minute of preparation count. Very quickly, students need to have clarity of their outcomes, work in teams with unity (often with colleagues they have never worked with before), surmount the mental and physical obstacles that may seem impossible, and so on.

All this is accomplished on a shoestring budget that leaves the teams to make their final props and other event items with available and existing resources at the hostel. It not only helps them be thrifty but forces them to think out of the box and bring in an element of creativity that challenges their current model of the world and pushes their comfort zones.

This process is one of several ways through which the conscious experiment of man-making and character building at Sai educational institutions truly succeeds. It prepares SSSIHL students to navigate the toughest of situations without sacrificing their values. At the same time, it helps build strong inner qualities such as a sense of unity and teamwork, determination, discipline, and hard work.

The cherry on the cake, however, is the immense love students have for Bhagawan, The Master Divine. For Sai students, the entire gamut of the Annual Sports and Cultural Meet boils down to this singular focus. Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba – with His Divine Vision – reciprocates this and makes sure that these pure feelings of Love are translated into the pursuit of excellence in every facet of the students’ evolution.

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The morning session of the 2020 Annual Sports & Cultural Meet commenced at 8 hrs with the symbolic arrival of Bhagawan at the Sri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium, in His car, accompanied by motorcycle escorts, and welcomed by the women’s brass band of the Anantapur Campus and a flag salute by all the Houses and the University Captain. This was followed by an escort by the Slow March Squad, a special contingent that was led by the men’s brass band of the Prasanthi Nilayam Campus, SSSIHL.

Following the ceremonial welcome to Bhagawan that concluded by the Veda chanting group of students, the Chancellor, along with senior members of the Sai educational institutions, and students representing each Sai educational institution offered salutations to Bhagawan. A grand, giant float mounted on wheels depicting the spirit of the Annual Sports & Cultural Meet with Bhagawan flanked by angels was offered by the students to Him.

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The March Past that followed included each of the three thousand Sai students marching in unison towards the dais at Shanti Vedika where Bhagawan sits, offering their salutations to their Revered Founder Chancellor.

The march past was followed by the hoisting of the University flag, which truly represents unity, and the promise to uphold the honor and glory of Sri Sathya Sai’s mission. Students then took the Sports Meet oath. The unveiling of the mascot for the year, the Celestial Lion, followed next. As the mascot flew into the main torch next to the many Gods of Hill View, it marked the commencement of the 2020 Annual Sports & Cultural Meet. Students of all the Sai educational institutions – gathered on the ground – then gave a collective bow to Bhagawan celebrating the 95th year of the Advent of The Divine Master.

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The brass band of SSSIHL, Anantapur Campus then played a piece, with the Institute Band members joining in unison, as they marched past Shanti Vedika, saluting The Divine Master. The Institute brass band followed them, playing the famed Star Wars theme.

Morning Session

This year, the students of SSSIHL Men’s Campuses – Prasanthi Nilayam, Brindavan, and Muddenahalli and Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School (Boys) put together a combined performance of fifteen items.

The first presentation was Big Bang, a musical drum roll that ostentatiously presented various rhythmic sounds, highlighting the big bang. The next item, The Mechanized world saw a group of dancers who portray the stages of evolution from beginning to the present world we live in, via a modern dance form called ‘Hip-hop, free-style’.

Roller skating stunts were next on display, as the Inliners presented various stunts and acrobatics. It was based on the theme of balance, which is essential for the sustenance of life and individual growth. Skates too stand on same principle of balance. Only when all the wheels of life are in perfect balance can a man lead his life happily.

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No Sai educational institutions Sports Meet is complete without the signature item of motorbike stunt riding. Beautifully captured by the drone videos employed by the Radio Sai team, the students of Muddenahalli campus seamlessly executed several stunts, from jumping over a line of students on the ground to criss-cross to a slew of fire jumps, much to the delight of the thousands gathered on the stands.

Hipsters, the next item, paid tribute to the street dance forms that were born out of an innate desire for self-expression to express the underlying emotion that the artist is experiencing at that moment in time. They presented six variants of the vernacular dance forms, a concoction that included break dancing, hip-hop, house, bone-breaking, lines & angles, and light-feet.

The Kalari Commandos then performed Kalaripayattu, a famed martial art form of Kerala, aimed at giving its practitioners perfect control over flexibility, stamina, and body balance. The exposition involved combat sequences with sticks, mace, sword, urumi, daggers, and hand movements, this art form enables the students to develop a bold and confident stance in the face of adversity.

The next item, Sumos, demonstrated several gymnastic feats, including somersaults and a game of kabaddi! The performers did justice to their name (Sumo) by perfectly balancing size and speed with versatility, surrender, and grace. The creativity of the students was at full display during this presentation.

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Saibots then took center-stage. The presentation highlighted the saga of Bhagawan through an innovative mode of dance and storytelling: robotic movements.

The stage was then set for Impavidos Reborn, a gymnastic performance of dive rolls, somersaults and obstacle jumps with the aid of a trampoline, and Shotokan Warriors, a display of a series of katas (self-defense moves), wheeling traditional weapons like kamas, Nunchuks and Short Swords along with exhibition of their physical valor in breaking techniques. Shotokan is the most widely practiced style of Karate originating from Martial Arts Schools in Japan. Students trained under Professional Shotokan Coaches (Dan with Black belts).

Acroyoga, a physical activity that combines yoga and acrobatics, paired groups of students to perform various stunts.

A display of juggling with three or more balls, hats, clubs, and some other props followed next. The Dynamic Jugglers also bundled in some juggling stunts on cycles and roller skates into their presentation.

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They were closely followed by Acrophiles, an item where students exhibit their strength and skill by climbing and performing breath-taking movements on ropes, hung from a 45 feet iron structure. Some of these included a free fall from over 35 feet to form complicated knots that lock just a couple of feet over the ground.

Audiences were then transported to the American Old West where the legendary Cowboys charmed us with classic moves and tricks, along with an occasional stunt or two. The item was truly a throwback to the Spaghetti Western era, and then some.

Dressed in black with white gloves up to their elbows, the Hidden Hands channelled a street-dance style set of sequences based on intricate movements of the fingers, and students make different formations that echoed national sentiments such as the exuberant Bharatiya, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), the Indian cricket team, the Chakra or spinning wheel of Mahatma Gandhi, the Swachh Bharat movement and the like. The penultimate formation, though, was that of Sai Himself, Whose Hand commands and supports the Universe.

The grand formation around Sai brought all the students present in a display of unity, signaling the end of the morning session.

Evening Session

The evening session began at 16 hrs with the ceremonial procession welcoming Bhagawan into the Sri Sathya Sai Hill View stadium.

The first presentation was by the students of Smt. Eswaramma High School, offering a thematic Atmanivedanam. They began with the younger children performing the Maruni Dance, a popular traditional form of the intrepid Gorkhas of the snow-capped Himalayan regions.

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They were followed by an ode to Charlie Chaplin with a bunch of tiny Chaplins dancing to many a tune that harped on one of his famous sayings, ‘You will never find a Rainbow if you are looking down.’

Fan Drill, a synchronized performance with Pink Pearl-like fans, was followed by Aerobics and Hoops, which was focused on rhythmic beats as the young men of the school performed an array of acrobatic moves. The Naari Sena then took over, presenting an aesthetic dance offering. It was an offering of dedication to the Divinity Within. The Naari Sena concluded with a dance ballet celebrating Lord Hanuman, who, by sheer example, gifted humanity with the most significant lessons of love and surrender.

SSSIHMS College of Nursing & Allied Health Sciences followed next with presentations that included a drill using a ball and pluck card showcasing the importance of harmony between body, mind, and soul. They achieved this through a Basketball Drill (depicting the effort, elegance, and hard work that present the dedicated effort to keep the mind in control with beauty and co-ordination) and Tai Chi, which highlighted controlled movements and breathing that generate internal energy, mindfulness, and serenity within us.

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Students of Sri Sathya Sai (Primary School) Higher Secondary School (Girls) then put up an enchanting and colourful presentation. They took off with Sai Samarpan, a heartfelt dance that paid obeisance to the Indwelling Divinity and moved on to a dexterous gymnastic display that revealed the essence of life, Life is a game, Play it! This was followed by a Pranams Dance (to Prakriti and Purusha) and Dandiya, that saw cherubic angels dance in supreme ecstasy and exuberance extolling life’s benevolence.

The Dance of Love, with Dandiya (a socio-religious folk dance originating from the Indian state of Gujarat), Sai Symphony (that had the little tots hop, skip and fill every heart with delight) and a floor exercise item followed them.

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The final three items included Divine Rasa Leela, an endearing dance, Divine Dexterity (where students performed daring feats on suspended rods and Divine Awakening, where the higher secondary school girls expressed their devotion through a divine symphony of music of the soul that emanates the awakening of the primordial Shakti, the power of Durga within.

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Last, but never the least, were the students of Anantapur Campus, SSSIHL. They began with Aerials, a powerful and graceful performance of aerial acrobatics while hanging from suspended fabric folded to form loops. They then put on a show for the cameras with Human Pyramids, an acrobatic formation displaying balance and athletic prowess.

As daylight faded on Sri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium, straddled hoppers and Sufi dancers with wings performed a graceful Rhythmic Drill. The grand finale was a ‘lightning’ display on Bhagawan’s Advent and Mission through a series of LED light formations.

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Mangala Aarati next brought the curtains down for the glorious day of Annual Sports & Cultural Meet 2020.

II Samastha Lokah Sukhino Bhavantu II

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Great excitement brimmed over. The ‘Pandharpur’ Dindi had just arrived at the Ganesh Gate of the Holiest Of The Holies, Sri Sathya Sai Prasanthi Nilayam. The heart of Pune pilgrims was full of celestial joy as they dedicatedly chose to participate in the 3 day ‘Dindi Yatra‘ from Dharmavaram to Prasanthi Nilayam. This year Pune district enthusiasts had somehow managed to convince two stalwart warkari regulars from Alandi – Deshmukh Maharaj and More Maharaj and eight of their disciples to join in this holy march, rerouting the course of their journey which had through decades steadfastly headed towards Pandharpur…to now culminate at Parthi…assuring them – that the Presence that filled their dreams was equally present at Prasanthi. They agreed only because years ago their guru had asked them to visit Parthi at least once.

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And so it transpired that as these warkaris from Pune district began their ‘devotional walk’ on the 1st of July – singing kirtans, chanting aloud, amidst fervent ‘Jai Jai Kaars’…hailing the One Absolute as Hari… Narayana… Vithala… Sai Krishna…Sai Rama…Sai Panduranga…when they sighed with extreme adoration…they experienced their Sai by their side!

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In the afternoon of 3rd July, the moment the Dindi entered Prasanthi precincts through Ganesh Gate there was a brief sprinkling of rain, akin to a cascade of blessings being showered upon the sublime intent, the participants, as well as the procession.

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Two of the regular Maratha warkaris, Deshmukh Maharaj and More Maharaj also joined the symbolic Dindi procession this time, preferring the same over the Pandharpur Dindi, though one must say out of loving ‘compulsion’.Though initially Deshmukh Maharaj and More Maharaj were reluctant to let go of their regular wari to Pandharpur, they eventually had such beautiful heart touching experiences during their wari and stay at Prasanthi that they were overwhelmed to their core. In the evening of July 4, while both of them were doing Hari Katha in their room, there was an Explicit Divine Touch Of Grace, a noticeable spattering of Vibhuti on Bhagawan’s photoframe, palpably making them aware of the loving Potent Divine Presence. True, their Cherished Mauli was as much here as in Pandharpur. This incident evoked tender emotions and tears of joy, as they experienced The OneNess Of Godhood through the merciful grace of Beloved Bhagawan! No doubt, these twin waris were infinitely grateful for being invited to join in this unique procession to Prasanthi Nilayam.

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II Samastha Lokah Sukhino Bhavantu II

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The event is part of a five-day annual meet that showcases an array of physical and cultural presentations by over two thousand students across the institutions. It is a marquee event for the system of Values-based Integral Education rigorously followed by all the institutions involved. Preparations for the event began a month in advance.

The event was split into two sessions, morning and evening.

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The morning session commenced at 0800 with Bhagawan’s ceremonial entry  into the Sri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium, in His car, escorted by motorcyclists and welcomed by the women’s brass band of the Anantapur Campus of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (SSSIHL). This was followed by an escort by the Slow March Squad, a special contingent that was led by the men’s brass band of the Prasanthi Nilayam Campus of the University.

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The March Past that followed included each of the two thousand Sai students marching in unison towards the dais at Shanti Vedika offering their salutations to their Revered Founder Chancellor.

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The first presentation was by the women students of Anantapur campus of SSSIHL who performed Rythmic Yoga, a form of Vinyasa or Artistic Yoga which offers a perfect blend of thirty-six yogasanas in tune with mellifluous music of Indian mantras. Following this, a presentation named Pattern Striders created patterns and symmetry as students marched together in unison, with synchrony, synergy and discipline. The last presentation was Sai Rangers, a motorcycle item sport characterized by stunts involving creative and daredevil manoeuvring of motorcycles to display various formations, dead defied jumps, blind jumps, fire jumps and long jumps. The presentation ended with a human formation of the words: Ever Yours.

The students of SSSIHMS College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences then reminded us of the importance of traditional art and dance. The first item was Kamsale Dance, a unique dance form that combined the sounds of cymbal instruments with vigorous rhythmic beats followed by DolluKunitha, an ancient art created and evolved from a group of villagers. It was characterized by vigorous drum beats, quick movements and synchronized group formations.

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The morning session ended with an energetic display by the students of Brindavan Campus, SSSIHL. The first item, Yobics, showcased the notion of wellness and optimum health through the art forms of yoga and aerobics. Following this, strength and coordination come to the fore as the Dexters showcased their dexterity with a performance involving creative formations on planks. The final performance of the morning was definitely the showstopper. Skyrunners, as the name suggests, saw daring acts of jumping into the sky using jumping stilts, inline skates and pogo-sticks. Fearlessness, vigour and passion are the qualities that come to mind as the students demonstrated that the sky is certainly not the limit.

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The evening session began at 1600 hrs. with the ceremonial procession welcoming Bhagawan into the Sri Sathya Sai Hill View stadium.

Students of Smt. Easwaramma High School presented five colourful and creative presentations. The first one (by Class 1-5 boys) Sponge Bob and Starfish brought the American animated television characters to life. The presentation chronicled the adventures and endeavours of the characters and their friends. Next up were the Class 1-5 girls that performed a Hoop and Umbrella Dance. They artistically juggled hoops around their waist, hip, chest and neck.

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Semi-classical Formations by the students of Class 6-10 girls then portrayed a series of semi-classical formations of Goddess Durga, Shiva and Swami. The boys of the same classes then complimented it with a gymnastic display named Body, Mind & Spirit.

The senior students of Class 9-10 then did a Puppet Dance that staged a true learning experience and sent across an inspirational message to young learners out there.

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Next up were the tiny tots and senior students of Sri Sathya Sai Primary School. They commanded everyone’s presence with a series of routines starting with a dance as a humble and loving offering of gratitude to Lord Sai. The floor was then painted red fora gymnastics display followed by a Ganesh Dance, after which the item Floral Rhythms depicted dainty angels of Lord Sai creating fountains of joy.

German Wheels, an evergreen performance was followed by a Fairy Drill and a frolicking Hat on The Stick performance to a celestial beat. After a balancing on planks act, they ended their presentation with the item, Fan Fantasy, when enthusiastic trail blazers spread waves of delight as they made waves with their soothing colourful fans with a lovely song of devotion for God whilst hundreds of balloons were released into the evening sky.

It was then time for the senior boys of Prasanthi Nilayam Campus, SSSIHL and Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School to take centre stage. They began with a huge display of Open Hearts ushered into the ground. Rajastan Royals, a mass colourful display of dance and formations with the combined styles of Rajasthani and Gujarati folk art performed with props like sticks, swords, drums, fire, etc. was followed by Impavidos (Gymnastics with trampoline), a display of various types of jumps using the trampoline.

The boys then piloted RC planes flying across the stadium offering their aerial pradakshina and pranams to Bhagawan Baba. Following this, it was time for a brilliant display of Martial Arts. From synchronized moves to tile breaking to nostalgia for Bruce Lee fans with the use of the nunchaku, the audience were treated to a brilliant display of coordination, deftness and skill.

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GODS (Game of Daring Stunts), an exhibition of gymnastics skills on the floor, combined with a few stunts through rings was followed by BOS (Balance, Order and Skill), various formations on structures of different heights.

Riders Legion, a scintillating performance with different formations on cycles with stunts thrilled the audiences. They then mixed it up with an item, Punjabi Gabrus, that mixed traditional and contemporary bhangra with jhaal in the timeless spirit of youth and cheerfulness. The stadium was then lit with the ever popular item, LED Light. Visual effects created with props having LED strips dazzled everyone with jazz, funky and intergalactic themes leading home to Prasanthi Nilayam.

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Fittingly, the students from Muddenahalli, the youngest campus at SSSIHL brought the event home with a Torch Drill, a visual display of various patterns, including symbols of faith, simple animation and expressions. The last routine of the day was LED & Fire Poi – A visual display of various patterns with LED lights and fire hangings from strings and chains. These patterns include a hue of different colours with fire adding to the thrill.

The programme ended at 1920 hrs with Mangala Aarati offering to Bhagawan.

II Samastha Lokah Sukhino Bhavantu II

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The morning hike took the participants on a journey past the towering statues of Krishna, Buddha, Christ and other faith leaders that adorn the hilltop, underscoring the unity of major religions of the world. The walk was sanctified with beautiful and vibrant bhajans at the Feet of the statue of Lord Hanuman – the embodiment of devotion.

Later in the morning, inside the Sai Kulwant Hall, three speakers shared their personal stories of transformation by the grace of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba: Ms. Saiusha Haridas, Youth Coordinator of Zone 4 (South East Asia), Dr. Chandinie, Sathya Sai Youth of India, and guest speaker, Ms. Alida Parkes, Chair of Zone 6 (Southern Europe).

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Speaking  first, Ms Saiusha Haridas  recounted her personal experiences with Bhagawan and said that with His love, one can reach great heights, fulfilling one’s potential. She started off on a high note, deliberating on the topic Where There Is Love…There Is A Highway, that offers a most conducive, comfortable, barrier-less journey.  Bringing in interesting anecdote from her personal diary with Swami, Saiusha said, “without Your gentle nudging and little pushing i would not become the person i am”.

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Speaking next,  Dr Chandinie, a Sai Youth from India, underscored the fact that women are embodiments of strength, identifying the women as Shakti, Intellect and Divine Mother HerSelf. Keeping Mother Sita as the Ideal, the speaker identified potential messages for young women, to follow and imbibe. When life crashes on us, what is within us comes out, and through such make or break situations women understand that they are embodiments of love and sacrifice, forgiveness… no situation in life is worth losing out all these inherent qualities in our lives, said the speaker reminding the youth that by being under Bhagawan, we are empowered to bring out a radical change in the society.

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The final speaker of the morning, Ms. Alida Parkes, shared her journey with Swami and urged the youth to live up to His expectations, making Him a priority in their lives. She reminded the youth that they should constantly conduct themselves with the awareness that the Lord is watching, and to offer the results of all actions to Him.

Deliberating on the theme Love All Serve All, the speaker also reminded the audience as to how Swami selected us, prepared and awakened each of His chosen ones to be His instrument in His Mission.  The veteran speaker holding many responsibilities with the SSIO also stressed on the need to practise Sai, following His teachings, taking the same around the world in a bid to eradicate negativity on the planet…

Sharing her message received from Bhagawan, “Love For God, Fear Of Sin, Practise Morality”,  Alida identified her own personal challenge in life,  that being not to fail Him at any time, but to raise herself up to His expectations.

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SSWYF-2016 theme song by the Indian Youth followed next, before Bhajans and Mangala Arathi.

The morning programme then continued in Poornachandra Auditorium. In his plenary talk, guest speaker Dr. Chandrasekhar Narayan, Director of Research, IBM, USA shared his laboratory’s ground breaking findings in environmental sustainability. Dr. Narayan reminded delegates of Sathya Sai Baba’s teachings about respecting nature and caring for Mother Earth.

There followed a lively and engaging debate between two global youth teams on the importance of righteousness versus love in the lives of the youth today. A heart-warming presentation on service projects conducted by Sathya Sai Youth drew applause.

The last segment of the morning session, Sai 360, featured youth from around the world, sharing personal experiences of serving in the Divine Mission. The central theme that emerged was that all action should be dedicated to the Lord.

Evening Session In Sai Kulwant Hall

On to Day-3 of the ongoing SSWYF-2016, Sai Kulwant Hall witnessed a series of three talks, including a summary presentation, followed by a Musical Presentation and Drama Presentation this evening here, in Prasanthi Nilayam.

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Addressing first Mr Lorenzo Casadio, Dy Central Coordinator Zone 6 of SSIO deliberated on the topic “sailing through the ocean of life”  reminding the audience of the importance of making friendship with God, considering Swami as the Best Friend. Sailing through the topic, Lorenzo, with rich anecdotes from his own perceptions, asked the youth as to how do we discharge our duties, as per the benchmark set of Bhagawan…? and where do we find the strength and inspiration while making an impact in our personal lives?? One need to find the answer, find Him in the deep recess, recognising Him as the One and Only Friend, observed Lorenzo, speaking with firm conviction.

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The Guest Speaker for the evening was Sri Ramachandran Venkataramanan, Executive Director, Tata Foundation. Sri Ramachandran Venkataraman was an alumnus of SSSIHL, graduated with an MBA in 1996.

Sri Venkataramanan, delivering a straight-from-the heart-speech, reflected on his initial days of joining in the Sathya Sai world, coupling the same with the greater lessons it offered, that at that point of time appeared elusively unclear. Referring to the platform of Sai Youth, the speaker opined that such a platform does not exist anywhere and it is a great boon to have Sai as the uniting factor in our lives… Perhaps we can think of a united platform that makes a difference in the lives of millions of people, concluded the speaker.

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International Music Team of SSIO then presented a special musical offering entitles “What It Means To Be A Sai Youth” musically depicting, with intertwined commentary, the journey of a Sai Youth, with each zone representing with its own musical tradition, connecting to Sai.

This was followed by a Drama Presentation by the  World Drama Team of SSIO. The Drama was entitled  “Love Is The Path to To Transforming The World”, a story of transformation by the soldiers of Sathya Sai.

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Earlier, Mr Dashendran Reddy, Zonal Youth Coordinator, Region 9A presented the Summary Of Proceedings of the 2nd day of the SSWYF-2016.

Bhajans by the International Sai Youth followed and the session ended with Mangala Arathi to Bhagawan.

II Samastha Lokah Sukhnino Bhavantu II

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The Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, India, solemnly observes a month of ‘Giving and Forgiving’ – 28th March, 2016 – 27th April, 2016 -A Silent Offering…a Seva-Sadhana Vandana…a Prem Aradhana for our Beloved Master – Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba

“What He chose to inflict upon His Divine Frame…
for the ultimate benefit and upliftment of the human race…
is completely beyond any mortal mind to understand…
or even try to appreciate, gauge, interpret or unravel,
For sure,
Even if one tries to do so…it will remain as a mere conjecture”.

The days spanning March – April 2011 was a profound phase that not only jolted those hearts as yet devoted to Bhagawan, but crucially impacted all of mankind, for it included a Divine Decision…the enactment of a momentous episode that brought on a storm of emotions, shook the earth…jarring the soul…while impacting the destiny of humanity.

The coming period from Monday, 28th March, 2016 till Wednesday, 27th April, 2016 is a month of contemplation …and it ought to prompt, precipitate an expansion in consciousness. It should then culminate in the celebration of Sai…within and without…and it is axiomatic that our Beloved Sai has to be celebrated in every inch and atom that surrounds us…in the fragrant blossoms and evergreen trees; in arid deserts, fertile plains, the mighty mountains and peaceful valleys; in the deep oceans, gurgling brooks and refreshing rivers; in lightning flashes, the roar of thunder and cool rain showers; in magnificent animals and the song of the birds, in the scorching brilliance of the Sun, in the glowing moonbeams; in space, air, fire, water, earth; and in each and every Divine Word.

Hence, the coming period, it is a time for giving and forgiving … a time to be particularly set aside for deliberation, introspection, self absorption and meditation on the Divine Consciousness.

It is a sombre phase which requires the involvement and indulgence of our heart, mind and soul “for giving” and “forgiving”…for can we ever forget the selfless life, the eternal sacrifice…the perfect wisdom, the incomparable gentle love, the spontaneous forgiveness…the matchless magnanimity and compassion of our Beloved Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba.

Let us all strengthen our devotion for the Lord – Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai…especially during this time that He chose to take upon Himself the hopelessly woebegone condition of humanity and the colossal contamination of Earth besides other unimaginable cosmic issues.

Come, let us honour and offer allegiance to this most distinctly poignant occurrence in time that has affected our life…so too, for the enhancement of global harmony…together let us commit deeply, unequivocally, vocally, silently to our Beloved Sai, to this hallowed period for in the realm of the Divine – no prayer goes unnoticed, no heartfelt appeal is ignored and certainly no devotion is unreciprocated. It is a time ‘lent’ to us all by Beloved Sai…to introspect, to grow, to learn our lessons, to reach out, to revitalise, to be and to become from i to Sai.

Let our fervour, intent and intensity soar, resonate, rise, reverberate individually, globally, encircle the ether on par, synchronising with the distinct and vital profundity of this period.

Let us wholeheartedly participate in this naman, arpan, samarpan…express, convey and magnify our love for Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai by giving and forgiving.

We seek your active support and silent participation in this period to exhort all from your state to undertake some Sadhana during the coming period .Hence, please make necessary announcements in your state so that every individual/devotee/active worker from your state is actively involved in this silent endeavour to transformation. Though, the period considered primarily is only 30 days, the same can become a way of life and be continued indefinitely.

Yours In Sai Seva,
Nimish Pandya
All India President
Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations , India

Enclosed : Sadhana To Undertake

Some Sadhana to undertake during the period from 28.3.2016 to 27.4.2016 :

An humble attempt to rekindle love and purity, truth and righteousness, harmony of ahimsa and oneness in mortal hearts gone arid and dry by consciously praying for one and all with earnest and humble deference , replete with zest, passion and reverence to Beloved Bhagawan, to all that He exemplified and personified -

- At the individual/family level
- 108 times daily chanting of Aum Sri Sai Ram
- 11 times chant of Samastha Lokaa Sukhinobhavantu …shanti (3)
- This can be accompanied by every day one act of kindness. Every devotee could keep water bowls for birds and animals in their areas, outside their homes, taking out a fistful of rice grains daily .
- Reading Sai literature daily
- Talking less and doing daily meditation

- At the samithi level
- Bal Vikas Children and their parents too can be involved in the chants and activities.
- Youth Wing participation in chants
- Every active member to participate in chants
- Acts of kindness for all to participate in keeping with Bhagawan’s compassion is to cook rice grains collected from individual devotees and conduct Narayan seva.
- Water Projects could also extend to cleaning of local tanks, lakes and rivers.
- Planting of trees, treatment for decaying trees.
- Enhanced village seva.
- Awareness programmes in bastis and hutments as regards hygiene, care for public property, flora and fauna, respect for women and girl child.
- Adopting a family for rations/clothing/daily needs/milk, education of children etc. or if you are an animal lover taking care of the needs of one animal/bird etc.
- Conduct one weekly talk for 5-7 minutes before the public bhajan on importance of Giving and Forgiving.

II Samastha Lokah Sukhino Bhavantu II

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It all started on the 9^th of November 2015. Unprecedented spells of downpour that began that day continued till 2^nd December. Cuddalore, Chidambaram, Villupuram, Kanchipuram and the Chennai Metropolis were facing floods of unimaginable proportions. Lives and livelihood were affected; sky-rise buildings were marooned upto the second floor and the city was ground to a halt.

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Soon after the deluge in Cuddalore in early November, Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, Tamil Nadu, lost no time in sending truck loads of relief material besides providing Disaster Management Team for rescue and relief operations, priority being rescuing the afflicted from isolated areas, providing them with immediate necessities.

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Then came the December deluge that brought Chennai city under its deadly grip. What should have fallen in 4 months of monsoon descended on the city in one night, a devastating rainfall of about 50 cm! Heavy release of water from the lakes dotting the city compounded the misery. Rivers and canals were in spate. The city was caught unawares in the dead of night.

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God never leaves anyone empty and hapless. In the thick of the trial, even as Chennaites strove to stand up on their feet, there was this white hue of love and peace spreading all around, healing the wounds – the famous ‘White Army’ of the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations.

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While the State office head quartered at “Sundaram”, the Sathya Sai Abode at Raja Annamalaipuram, planned and executed rescue and relief operations, various Sai centres and units scattered across the city and its suburbs carried out various service measures, that included feeding the afflicted, reaching out to those who stranded in hutments and upper stories of buildings with food and essential supplies. Worst affected areas have been identified after quick and effective survey with the help of District Organisational units, thus prioritizing the service package. Seventy such locations have been shortlisted, followed up by rush of essential supplies.

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Rains abated and floods started receding by 3^rd December. It was time for people to go back to their ‘original’ dwellings. The daunting question was… what will they go back to? The flood fury had washed away all and sundry in its course. Now the affected are faced with a dire situation to start afresh, almost from the scratch. Aiding this, a carefully chosen list of 30 essentials that included rice, dhal, oil, drinking water, tamarind, clothes, match boxes, candle, women’s hygiene products, etc. was drawn up.

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The work of preparing 20,000 such packs has been going on at Sundaram everyday from morning 9 a.m. till 11.30 p.m. in two shifts. Seva Dal members, Mahilas, Youth, Balvikas children – all have flocked to Sundaram in a spirit of selfless service. They are well aware of Swami’s saying, “The hands that serve are holier than the lips that pray”. By 14^th December afternoon, about 11,000 such ‘Sai’ packages have already been packed to needy households.

The call of service comes naturally, from a love filled heart and quite often Sathya Sai’s selfless mode of service turns infectious. In a world rampant with selfish, greedy chauvinism, His ‘White Army’ remains a service model with a selfless agenda, for the betterment of the world at large. The news of the work was carried by social media and the press, which brought in a number of service-spirited college youth and general public to this stupendous rescue effort.

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“I came to know about the work through my friends in WhatsApp group. It moved me. I came here with some of my friends” says Gautham, a 3^rd year degree student of Vivekananda College, Chennai, with sparkling relief in his eyes. Though his house in Vyasarpadi, a Chennai suburb, was inundated causing huge loss, he chose to travel 13 km to R.A. Puram to join the service activity at Sundaram.

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Bhagawan always advocated and trained His devotees in choosing long term measures, while meeting up with such natural disasters. Meeting with the exigencies will have to be followed up by a sustainable programme, to rehabilitate the victims.

The Tamil Nadu Team, in consonance with Bhagawan’s ‘practical’ vision, is planning to go on with their activities till the last person re-commences his/her life. To this sustainable end, frequent meetings are being held to fine-tune and continue with the operations.

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He Is The Supreme Lord Who in a trice converted the time immemorial Vedic dictum of “Lokah Samastha Sukhino Bhavantu” into “Samastha Lokah Sukhino Bhavantu”, exhorting the world to expand. If one minutely observes, every single move in His creation is aimed at this ‘sukham’, happiness, and so called natural calamities are no exception to this truth. Everything comes with a purpose, and now, when Chennai is facing this ordeal of deluge, it is evident that The Divine Hands of Supreme Sai is raising the city and its inhabitants through His protective arm, to this comfortable zone of peace and tranquility once again.

II Samastha Lokah Sukhino Bhavantu II

(banner ‘backdrop’ image courtesy: www.theweek.in)

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The reference above is a general one,  about an international fraternity of dedicated volunteers, be it children, youth or adult, who, quite often pool themselves under the banner of International Sai Organization for its multifarious projects while delivering with their precisional best. The latest expression in their list of noble ventures is a most educative exhibition on the Life and Teachings of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai, thrown open last evening here, in Prasanthi Nilayam.

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This display marvellously attempts to illustrate – the Labour Of Love of the Ultimate Divine Persona, while delightfully being accomplished through a ‘labour of love’ by His own children, the Youth and the Adult, from around the world,

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The untitled Exhibition is a virtual ‘walk-through’, an enlightening journey that meanders through the most matchlessly illustrious life of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba.  After a look over from the periphery, browsing through His Life in time-line, as one enters into the inner ring, there are 4-hearts representing the four important wings of activities of SSIO, identified as Looking Within (Love), Practical Spirituality (How to Love), Service (Heart of Service), Service (Activities). All the four wings converge at the centre, pointing towards One Heart-Centre, significantly represented by a Tree.

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Symbolical of the spiritual Truth, man, after traversing his life through the exterior, journeys through to the inner realms only to find himself within. The exhibition speaks of this ultimate journey of man from himself to Himself. From the Sai parlance, when one walks-through His Life and Messages, one is endowed with ample wisdom laden with service opportunities that ultimately opens one up to the Inner Reality, that of – I Am I.

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As one strolls through, there are artworks in plenty defining and describing ‘how to cultivate love’ and ‘how to remove obstacles that come in the way of love’, apart from various service initiatives, namely – MediCare, SocioCare, EduCare, Disaster Relief and Saving the Environment, to name a few. Distinct from other traditional exhibitions, here one finds an innovative touch, an interactive ‘theatre’ platform promising multifarious shows like live music performances, talks, musings, etc. Anyone is free to walk in and share, condition being creditable, shareable material.

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There are also many interactive avenues throughout the exhibition, presenting a refreshing ‘learning’ touch to the visiting devotees, including children. A mention is to be made as regards the ‘hand of healing’ under the section that covers MediCare, SocioCare, Disaster Relief, etc. Here the visitors are provided with blank ‘paper hands’ with a request to pen their ‘good wishes’ meant for the patients at Bhagawan’s Temple Of Healing. At the end, these messages will find their ‘home’ back at the hospital, for the patients to collectively receive and heal.

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Typical of human birth, this exhibition took nine months to deliver. The Project conceived and directed by Bhagawan Himself had its origin in early January this year.  The task was assigned to the Events Committee under the leadership of the former National Youth Coordinator of USA.. “The project practically took off in March (when ideation began) and now in November, it is a reality,” said the Young Adult, speaking on the intricacies of this herculean Labour of Love over the past nine months. Thanking the Sai Youth for their stupendous effort done in compiling the Pre-World Conference material, which came in handy, she also acknowledged the participation and contribution of every single zone of the International Sai Organization. Segment-wise projects were allotted to different zones and tasks were accomplished well within time. She reminded, “This is a collective mission, with the youth and the adults coming together for a Sai cause.”

And, what about the talent and expertise, apart from the mass contribution from various zones?

“Measurements were taken to millimeter precision,” said the Project in-charge detailing the architectural and aesthetic attention given to the task in hand. , introducing a charming and angelic German lady, a Finnish settled in Germany, who accomplished the task of measuring every minute detail to millimeter precision, in July, gearing up the campaign. She is a colour expert, as the Project in-charge fondly calls her  – my ‘colour police’ – whose expertise is evidently portrayed in the number of ‘colourful’ panels exhibited with an aesthetic touch, throughout the exhibition.

Another Young Adult, from Australia, an architect by profession, worked on the architectural front tirelessly over the months, making the blue-print a reality. It deserves a mention here that the entire outlay of design was conceived by Swami Himself vide His able instrument.

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The exhibition asks you to Zoom Out, as you enter and once you scan through His Life with a heart full of concentration and devotion, you are asked gradually to Zoom In… zooming into His projects, and further to the Source, the Tree – Sri Sathya Sai HimSelf.

His Creation is His Labour of Love… As a dedicated offering, when we recreate ‘His Labour of Love’ with our labour of love… it is love that meets with That Love…to become one with…with The Only Love!!!

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Senior office bearers of Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust, Sathya Sai Seva Organizations – India and Overseas and members from Prasanthi Counsil were present during the inaugural function. After a complete round of inspection, Sri K Chakravarthi, IAS (Retd.), Managing Trustee of SSSCT, had a word of appreciation for the yeomen efforts. He said, “We are beholden to you for having spent ample time in bringing Swami’s teachings in an intelligible format and enabling us to revisit and experience them.” “Very innovative, inspiring and informative!”

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As one comes out, with a freshened feeling of greater awareness, one is led to what is called a ‘façade booth’, a large 100 percent PVC free, eco-friendly material banner of the size 18 x 4 meters, covering the entire entrance arena. It is unique as this sheet covers the entire exhibition material in thumbnail forms, 249 in number, leaving a mosaic view of Bhagawan’s watchful eyes in the backdrop. It does serve as a ‘FaceBook’ or simply as a book cover, explaining the prospectus inside. Clarifying the same, the man behind this innovative work said, “The idea is to speak about the mammoth work being done by the SSIO, all around the world, bringing the same in print.”

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It is a collective effort, of the Youth and the Adult, a must watch, a unique exhibition, call it an innovative ‘Multimedia Book’, wherein one finds many pages, each page diverse from the other, yet claims a united thread, that being Sai – The Inner Self.

One is assured of plenty of material to study, grasp, assimilate and be aware of. This one-of-a-kind exhibition is a colossal education in itself…as well as a immensely enlightening experience, where one can enjoy very interesting briefing by the exuberant and ever committed team members, whose names we would like to mention but cannot owing to our own discipline.

(The Exhibition is held at the Satsangh Hall, Gr. Floor, next to the Book Trust building. It is open from 0900 hrs until 15 hrs and again from 1800 hrs until 2100 hrs, from 21st to 27th November)

II Samastha Lokah Sukhino Bhavantu II

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‘We are triple blessed’, said Dr Reddy commenting on the supreme munificence of Bhagawan, the triple blessings being, we are contemporaries, we are blessed to be in Prasanthi Nilayam and we are blessed to be a part of the 90^th birthday celebrations. ‘His glory is beyond any comprehension’.

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His scholarly speech was mixed with anecdotes of experiences with Bhagawan suffused with lessons galore. Speaking on the essential qualities of a devotee Dr Reddy lucidly explained the four facets of Chamatkar, Sanskar, Paropkar and Sakshatkar.

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The same Atma pervades everywhere, reminded the speaker, deliberating on the transitory nature of the physical world.

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About the yeomen efforts in the field of Sathya Sai Education, he highlighted on the inspiring governmental initiatives in imparting the system of education throughout the country.

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May Bhagawan bless all with strength, dedication and love to reach the Goal of life in this lifetime itself, concluded the veteran speaker.

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Dr Reddy’s speech also covered on the ensuing 10^th World Conference of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, scheduled from 25^th to 27^th of November.

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An International Choir of Zone 8 of Sathya Sai International Organisation followed next, participated by Russia and adjoining countries. 135 women and 35 men participated in the half-an-hour devotional session, having 8 songs and bhajans. The songs were thematic of Love and Gratitude for Beloved Bhagawan.

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Earlier, the session commenced at 1700 hrs with an introductory speech by Alejandro Alex Grania, National Service Coordinator from the United States.

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Bhajans continued and the session concluded with Mangala Arathi to Bhagawan.

II Samastha Lokah Sukhino Bhavantu II

Speaking first Mr Leonardo Gutter deliberated on the essential question as to ‘why are we here today?’ ‘Bhagawan has special plans and each one of us are here as we have a special mission’, reminded Mr Gutter, adding that we are here to receive His Divine touch, to open our hearts and thus to melt our egos. ‘Many of us have travelled thousands of miles to reach Prasanthi Nilayam, but remember, all of us have passed through many thousands of lives before reaching Prasanthi Nilayam.’

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About the ensuing 10^th World Conference of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organizations, the speaker said that the Organization is spread in to more than 123 countries. ‘There is no country where Sathya Sai devotees are not there, and thus the Organization is omnipresent.’

Delving on the quantum leap of the organizational activities, Mr Gutter reiterated on the Oneness of the Organization, be it the International or Indian, be it those who work around the world, or those who serve Bhagawan at Prasanthi Nilayam.

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We are here to know God’s omnipresence and understand that we too are God, reminded the speaker. ‘Spiritual path is the path of excellence of love.’

Mr Gutter also explained some of the useful Sadhana procedures, worth adapting for clearing off the monkey mind. Entertaining the assembly with some of his ‘most thrilling’ personal experiences with Bhagawan, the veteran speaker exhorted the audience to resolve, during the momentous occasion, that, from this day onwards we will abstain from anger and jealousy, to make Bhagawan ‘happy’.

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‘Go to every corner of the world and spread My message there’ the speaker said, quoting Bhagawan Himself, sharing His Divine Command given to the Prasanthi Council officials some years ago.

Ms Dana Gillespie, speaking last, took a flashback to her initial days of ‘penance’ in His Presence. ‘Swami’s message has to be taken in all forms of music’, opined the singer narrating her first stint of singing in His Presence, that became, in her opinion, an embarrassment for the ‘traditional music loving’ assembly. ‘I have never sung to Swami, I sung for Swami.’

Touching upon His all-conquering love and omnipresence, She then burst into a song that He had sung for Him earlier, “The Promise”.

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Calling the day her ‘favourite’, and the day to repeat all ‘favourite’ things, she explained the story behind the famous bhajan, her favourite, Allaho Akbar, wherein Bahgawan advised her to reinstate the two ‘earlier deleted’ lines, before singing, the lines beings, La ilaha illallah Muhammadur Rasulullah. She then sang the enchantingly enticing bhajan “Allaho Akbar” followed by the audience in chorus. It was frenzied passion of musical devotion.

Narrating the beauty of her own ‘Rose Petal Story’ in Bhagawan’s immediate Presence, Dana Gillespie concluded singing one of her own composition – Shower The Rose Petals…” that ended with echoing refrain for Cosmic Peace – “Samastha Lokah Sukhino Bhavantu” followed by Om Shanti! Shanti! Shanti! In fact, she began her speech this morning, paying obeisance at Bhagawan’s Feet in her typical style, with a Shower of Rose Petals.

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Much to the delight of Prasanthi, the Sun God who had been relenting to ‘sparkle’ showed up  with added brilliance from yesterday afternoon. How could he resist the Eternal ‘Sai’ charm!!!

Bhajans continued and the session ended with Mangala Arathi.

II Samastha Lokah Sukhino Bhavantu II

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Arjuna Tapa, a Mahabharata episode, as the title suggests was a depiction of Arjuna’s ordeals to win the Grace of Mahadev, Lord Shiva, and thus His mighty weapon Pasupatastra.

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Much different from the native Indian style of mythological depictions, the Balinese-Indonesian presentation this evening followed the traditional Balinese style with music, dance, dialogue and facial expressions come to combine, presenting a most exhilarating session. Multimedia at the backdrop turned out to be an added attraction. Traditional musical instruments, Gamelan and the popular Singing Bowl were also in play, adding musical perfection to the forty-minute show.

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The presentation begins with a traditional Kayon dance illustrating the alluring beauty of Indrakila Mountain, the venue of the epochal Mahabharata episode.

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Surviving a testing time with a series of ‘fairies-onslaught’ at the instance of Lord Indra, only to test Arjuna’s forbearance, finally Arjuna had to endure a faceoff with Lord Shiva, Who came in the guise of Kirata. Having lost his battle with Kirata, a bewildered Arjuna learns a lesson in humility before winning the Pasupatastra from the Divine Hands, lesson for the modern Arjuna’s being to forego vanity, fighting against the inner foes, becoming worthy Sai instruments. The professional presentation was done by Team Art and Culture Bali-Indonesia.

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From South East Asia to the African land of Nigeria… The final presentation for the evening was a Sai African Choir represented by Nigeria.

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Formed in the year 2009, the Sai African Choir had its maiden offering in the same year during the Guru Purnima celebrations in the immediate Divine Presence, followed by another stint in 2012, during the 85th Birthday celebrations.

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Presenting their 3^rd in the series of offerings at Bhagawan’s Lotus Feet this evening, a group of over 25 men and women sang for the next forty minutes presenting the incomparable beauty of African ‘Sai’ devotion.

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Ably conducted by Dr Adebowale Adeogun, an accomplished musician, the Choir had a selection of 9 gems in Igbo, Yoruba and English, which were followed by two Sai bhajans.

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In culmination, the troupe sang in chorus, wishing Bhagawan a “Happy Birthday”. The bliss in the collective heart was evident from the radiant faces of the Nigerian Sai children.

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Bhajans continued and the session concluded with Mangala Arathi at 1840 hrs.

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II Samastha Lokah Sukhino Bhavantu II