FEBRUARY 2019

S a n a t h a n a S a r a t h i Devoted to the Moral and Spiritual Uplift of Humanity through SATHYA SANTHI PREMA AHIMSA Vol.: 62 Issue No. 2 Date of Publication: 1st February February 2019 “You respect the mother of this © Sri Sathya Sai Sadhana Trust, Publications Division body of yours in this birth. But you Prasanthi Nilayam had other mothers in your previous Printed by K.S. RAJAN Published by K.S. RAJAN births. All the bodies are temporary On behalf of the owner, Sri Sathya Sai like passing clouds. Only God is Sadhana Trust, Publications Division, Prasanthi Nilayam 515134, Anantapur District (A.P.) your true mother. He is the only And Printed at M/s Rajhans Enterprises, 136, 4th Main Road, Industrial Town, Rajaji Nagar, truth; He is eternal and divinely Bengaluru 560044, Karnataka And Published at Sri Sathya Sai Sadhana Trust, glorious. So, give place only to God Publications Division, Prasanthi Nilayam 515134, Anantapur Dist., Andhra Pradesh. in your heart.” Editor G.L. ANAND Assistant Editor P. RAJESH C O N T E N T S E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] For Audio Visual / 4 Give Place only to God in your Heart Book Orders: [email protected] Bhagavan’s Discourse: 6th May 1997 ISD Code : 0091 STD Code : 08555 Telephone : 287375 9 Sri Sathya Sai Educational Institutions Annual Sports Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust Telefax : 287390 and Cultural Meet Sri Sathya Sai University - Administrative Office : 287191 / 287239 A Report Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School : 289289 17 Opportunity to Serve in Bhagavan’s Presence Sri Sathya Sai Kuppam Vijayamma Primary School : 287237 SSSIHMS, Prasanthigram, Puttaparthi : 287388 19 Sanctify your Life by Chanting Gayatri Mantra SSSIHMS, Whitefield, Bhagavan’s Upanayanam Message Bengaluru : 080 28411500 21 Transformation Dr. S.K. Upadhyay Annual Subscription acceptable for 1, 2 or 3 years. English India: (12 issues) ` 75 Nepal, 22 World Cannot Exist Without Noble Souls Bhutan and Sri Lanka ` 600 Chinna Katha Other Countries: ` 850 or US $19 or UK £13 or ¤13 or 23 Celebrations at Prasanthi Nilayam Can $22, Aus $26 Telugu India: ` 60 (12 issues) A Report Other Countries: ` 550 or £9 or US $13 or ¤9, Can $15 or Aus $17 30 Joint Statement Released by Sri Sathya Sai Note: Please do not send currency notes in postal covers. For the Attention of Central Trust, Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation and “Sanathana Sarathi” Subscribers. Sathya Sai International Organisation Three asterisk marks (*** ) appearing after your subscription number on the mailing wrapper indicate that you should renew your subscription Official Websites of Prasanthi Nilayam immediately. Please quote your present Sri Sathya Sai Sadhana Trust, Publications Division: www.srisathyasaipublications.com subscription number while renewing the subscription. All subscriptions and other Bhagavan’s Photographs Online: www.saireflections.org correspondence should be addressed Reporting Website from Prasanthi Nilayam: www.theprasanthireporter.org to The Convener, Sri Sathya Sai Sadhana Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust: www.srisathyasai.org.in Trust, Publications Division, Prasanthi Radio Sai Global Harmony: www.radiosai.org Nilayam – 515 134. Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh, India. Sri Sathya Sai Easwaramma Women’s Welfare Trust: www.ewwt.org.in Bal Vikas Wing of Sri Sathya Sai Organisation, India: www.sssbalvikas.org For Renewals / Electronic Editions / New Subscriptions, please visit us @ www.sanathanasarathi.org Contents Page Subscribe Online Sanathana Sarathi Archives Darshan Updates Video Links

A V A T A R V A N I GIVE PLACE ONLY TO GOD IN YOUR HEART

God is love and love is God. When you hold on to this principle of love and develop love to love relationship, you will attain the state of non-dualism. (Telugu Poem)

B E E V E R G R A T E F U L T O Y O U R P A R E N T S

Embodiments of Love! e, yam. Sath means life force, here is no noble e means food, yam means quality greater than love sun. Human body is the T in this world. Love is combination of life force, wealth, love is wisdom, love food and sun. Because is truth and love alone is man is able to sustain life by means of food, the Vedas righteousness. Love pervades say food is life force. It everything. The whole world and means life is sustained all the beings emerge from love, by food and food is are sustained by love and merge created by the rays in love. Man is like a bubble of the sun. which is born out of water, grows in water and merges in Man obtains food water. Man is the bubble and and water by means Narayana is the water. of sunrays. There can be no crops Man should Lead a Life of without the sun. Life Truth can be sustained Every human being is born out by food from crops. of mother’s womb and is nourished There can be no life by mother’s love. He derives all without food. But, life wealth and happiness through his force, food and sun mother’s love. Therefore, there emerge from truth. So, is no god greater than mother. every human being is a She is the goddess of this body form of truth. Being the and is the embodiment of truth. very form of truth, man Everyone should try to understand should lead a life of truth. what is truth. The word Sathyam But, unfortunately, man is comprises three syllables – Sath, leading a life of falsehood. Contents Page Subscribe Online Sanathana Sarathi Archives Darshan Updates Video Links

That is why he is facing untold difficulties God is present in each and every and unwanted troubles and is subjected to body in the form of Chaitanya endless agony. He is always restless and (consciousness) which is a full of anguish. He is not recognising that dynamic power. This power is not the entire creation including himself has visible to the eye, not audible to emerged out of truth and will merge in truth. the ear, cannot be perceived by the Mother is the very embodiment of truth. mind, not even felt by the heart. Rama shone in the world as God because of His mother Kausalya. The twins Lava and But it bestows Self-realisation. Kusa became mighty because of the loving There is so much power in care of their mother Sita. Chaitanya. It means this body is Children acquire fame only due to the endowed with divine power. noble thinking of their mother. But they do not recognise the sacredness of their time of slaying of Shambarasura, the mother’s heart. A mother may resort to blessings showered by Vinata on her devious ways in other respects, but in the son when he set out on the sacred context of her children she never entertains mission of getting his mother freed aversion, dissatisfaction or dislike. She from servitude, the blessings mother aspires for the welfare of her children under Kausalya conferred on her son Rama all circumstances. First and foremost, when He went to forest to safeguard the children should love their mother, then Yajna of Viswamitra, and above all the their father and next their Guru (teacher). most powerful and divine blessings of Mother fosters the body, father nourishes Rama be with you and protect you in the the body and Guru imparts intelligence. The battlefield. (Telugu Poem) body cannot sustain itself without food. One Many sages could perform intense cannot survive in the physical world without penance easily and successfully and intelligence. To live in this world with the earn God’s grace by the blessings of mortal body, it is necessary for everyone to their mothers. Adi Sankara has said that acquire worldly intelligence also. those who could not receive their mother’s Many great people loved and respected blessings would be entangled in the cycle their mothers. They sought the blessings of births and deaths, but there would be no of their mother before undertaking any further birth of those who obtained the divine important venture in life, such as going to protection of their mother. Those bereft of battlefield to fight or to forest for penance. mother’s protection undergo endless cycle Noble mothers then showered blessings on of birth and death. Adi Sankara indicated their children to provide them impeccable this in Bhaja Govindam: protection as follows: Punarapi Jananam Punarapi Maranam, May you be the recipient of the same blessings which mother Gauri conferred Punarapi Janani Jathare Sayanam, on her son Kumara when he went out for Iha Samsare Bahu Dustare, battle against Tarakasura, the blessings Kripayapare Pahi Murare. Bhargavi bestowed on her son at the (Sanskrit Verse) Contents Page Subscribe Online Sanathana Sarathi Archives Darshan Updates Video Links (Oh Lord! I am caught up in this cycle is needed to perform even small things. But, of birth and death; time and again, I am unfortunately, people today have become experiencing the agony of staying in the blind because they have lost their two eyes mother’s womb. It is very difficult to cross of faith. Doubt is prevalent at each and this ocean of worldly life. Please take me every step. This kind of attitude is on the across this ocean and grant me liberation.) increase in this Kali age. Man has no faith Develop Firm Faith in God in himself. How then can he repose faith in anything? The foremost duty of the children Many great persons have extolled the is to have faith in their mother. By the love capabilities and powers of the mother. of the mother, they can achieve anything. Therefore, man should first of all become Therefore, everyone should develop love for deserving of his mother’s grace. But this the mother and strive to earn her blessings. is not enough. Man should develop faith in God and make efforts to attain His grace. Vedanta teaches that man’s heart is a single seat sofa which has place only for The Upanishads also declare that an one. It is not a musical chair to change every aspirant should first of all have faith. Nothing now and then. There is place only for God can be achieved without faith. You will not in the heart. Love and respect your mother; board a bus if you do not have faith that you

We use the terms Deha Dehi, Sarira Sariri, Kshetra Kshetrajna. What is the meaning of Kshetra? We visit places like Tirupati Kshetra, Badri Kshetra, Amarnath Kshetra, etc. But we should not say Kodaikanal as Kshetra. It is a hill station, not Kshetra. We call a place Kshetra only when Divinity is associated with it. It is in this context that the body is called Kshetra (field) because there is Kshetrajna (knower of field) in it.

will travel safely to Kodaikanal, have Swami’s Darshan and return safely. You will not lay the foundation of your house if you have no be grateful to her. But know that mother and faith that you will perform the housewarming father are impermanent. So is Guru, wealth ceremony in the coming year. You go to the and children. market to purchase some items with the Mata Nasti, Pita Nasti, faith that you will return home safely. Faith Nasti Bandhu Sahodara,

6 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi Contents Page Subscribe Online Sanathana Sarathi Archives Darshan Updates Video Links Artham Nasti, (possessor of the body). In this manner, Griham Nasti, man has dualities in him. Sarira or body is Thasmath Jagrata Jagrata. that which undergoes decimation. How does (Sanskrit Verse) it get decimated? It grows and grows, and (The relationships like mother, father, then undergoes gradual decimation. Is not brothers, sisters and friends are not eternal. the body growing? Is it Jada (inert)? When House and wealth are also illusory. Hence, it is inert, how can you say it has growth? beware! beware!) The body is inert but it grows because of consciousness. By the power of Chaitanya, Love, respect and serve your parents. the body that is Jada is able to grow. But beware that there is place only for God in your heart, who alone is permanent and Here is a small example. We sweep our eternal. house daily. As you go on dumping the trash in a pit, gradually it grows into a mound. Janma Dukham Jara Dukham, Does the mound grow on its own? It is our Jaya Dukham Punah Punah, action of dumping that causes its growth. Antya Kale Maha Dukham, Similarly, the body is growing because we Thasmat Jagratha Jagratha. are regularly feeding it with items such as (Sanskrit Verse) Idli, Sambar, Dosa, Chapati, etc. This body (Birth is a misery, old age is a misery, family is also a type of mound; it is inert and has is a misery, and death is a terrible misery. no Chaitanya of its own. It is made up of So, beware! beware!) inert material. The physical body is an Human Body is Endowed with Divine agglomeration of four buckets of lime, one Power bucket of water, four soap bars, six nails, 900 matchsticks and ten pencils of lead. All You respect the mother of this body of these being inert, the physical body too is yours in this birth. But you had other mothers inert. in your previous births. All the bodies are temporary like passing clouds. Only God is However, the indweller in the body is your true mother. He is the only truth; He is the dynamic divine principle. That is why eternal and divinely glorious. So, give place the body came to be known as Sarira. only to God in your heart. Mother and father What is the meaning of Sarira? That which live in the house. Guru lives in the Ashram. undergoes dissolution is Sarira. Body grows But God is Hridayavasi (resident of your and decays while the indweller has no heart). Know this truth clearly and revere growth or decay. The body is composed of your mother as God. Ihamuna Sukhimpa five elements. Hemataraka Vidya, Paramuna Sukhimpa The body is made up of five elements Brahmataraka Vidya (worldly education and is bound to perish sooner or later is for life here and spiritual education is but the indweller has neither birth nor for life hereafter). Man is endowed with death. The indweller has no attachment two entities: Deha (physical body) Dehi whatsoever and is the eternal witness. (indweller), Kshetra (field) Kshetrajna Truly speaking, the indweller who is (knower of the field), Sthiram (eternal) in the form of the Atma, is verily God Asthiram (temporary), Sarira (body) Sariri Himself. (Telugu Poem)

7 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi Contents Page Subscribe Online Sanathana Sarathi Archives Darshan Updates Video Links We use the terms Deha Dehi, Sarira is the Nature and the father is God. The Sariri, Kshetra Kshetrajna. What is the root cause of life principle is the union of meaning of Kshetra? We visit places like Prakriti and Paramatma (Nature and God). Tirupati Kshetra, Badri Kshetra, Amarnath Therefore, mother is the basis of your body, Kshetra, etc. But we should not say father is the fostering power. Nothing and Kodaikanal as Kshetra. It is a hill station, nobody thrives sans a base. These days not Kshetra. We call a place Kshetra only we find proliferation of scientists. When the when Divinity is associated with it. It is in question arises about how water is created, this context that the body is called Kshetra the scientists say it is by the combination (field) because there is Kshetrajna (knower of two atoms of hydrogen and one atom of of the field) in it. Kshetrajnam Chapi Maam oxygen. True! But who created hydrogen Viddhi… (recognise Me as the knower of and who created oxygen? The scientists do the field also), says Lord Krishna in the not consider these questions in spite of the Bhagavadgita. fact that these are the basic elements. Any Kshetra acquires value only because There was a person who wanted to of the Kshetrajna who knows all about the become a Paramahamsa (realised person). Kshetra. This Kshetrajna is God. Deho What is meant by Paramahamsa? Hamsa Devalaya Proktho Jivo Deva Sanathana denotes Soham (That I am). ‘So’ means (the body is a temple and the indweller is That, ‘Ham’ means I. With each breath, you God). The body is a temple of God, not the say Soham (I am God). A Paramahamsa temple of Jiva (individual soul). It is not even is the one who has realised, I am God. He the temple of life force; it is the temple of sheds the individual principle and attains the God. How can we realise or understand this Supreme Principle. The bird Hamsa (swan) is principle of God? God is present in each believed to have the capability of separating and every body in the form of Chaitanya water from milk. But scientists ridicule it as (consciousness) which is a dynamic power. nonsense. In fact, an acid is produced on the This power is not visible to the eye, not beak of this bird by which water is separated audible to the ear, cannot be perceived by from milk. The question is who has put the the mind, not even felt by the heart. But it acid in its beak? It is the creation of God’s bestows Self-realisation. There is so much Will. Did any scientist create this acid? It is power in Chaitanya. It means this body is sad that the scientists criticise spirituality. endowed with divine power. It is very easy to criticise, but difficult to Realise the Divine Principle understand. It is sheer childishness. With a wee bit of understanding, they embark on Unfortunately, people misuse this sacred wide publicity. A single brinjal is what they body. You should strive to put it to good buy, and a pumpkin is what they demand as use. Who gave this body? The mother is incentive. How is it possible? the basis of the physical body. But God invests it with divine power. You may have (To be continued in the next issue) a quality seed. But will the seed grow into – Bhagavan’s Divine Discourse at Sai a sapling if you sow it in a tin box? It will Sruthi, Kodaikanal on the occasion of grow only when sown in soil. The mother Easwaramma Day on 6th May 1997.

8 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi SRI SATHYA SAI EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS ANNUAL SPORTS AND CULTURAL MEET

ri Sathya Sai educational institutions held their Annual Sports S and Cultural Meet on 11th January 2019 in Sri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium. The event was 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. It showcased an array of physical and cultural presentations by the students of the institutions in two sessions, morning and evening. March Past by a special marching squad. Morning Session the hoisting of the university flag, which truly represents unity, and the promise to uphold The morning session commenced at 8 the glory and honour of Sri Sathya Sai’s a.m. with Bhagavan Baba’s car entering mission. This was followed by the unveiling Sri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium with His of this year’s mascot – Nandi, the celestial photograph. It was escorted by motorcycle bull known for its devotion to Lord Siva. The squad and welcomed by the women’s brass mascot flew into the main torch marking the band of Anantapur Campus of the Institute. commencement of the Annual Sports and This was followed by an escort by the Slow Cultural Meet. The brass band of Anantapur March Squad, a special contingent that Campus then played a piece, with the was led by the brass band of the Prasanthi Nilayam Campus of Sri Sathya Sai Institute Institute Band members joining in unison, as of Higher Learning. Following the ceremonial they marched past Shanti Vedika, saluting welcome to Bhagavan, the Vice Chancellor their Divine Master into a slow retreat. along with senior members of Sri Sathya Sai The first presentation was made by educational institutions offered salutations the students of Brindavan Campus of the to Bhagavan. Institute who offered three performances. The March Past that followed included The first was Shaolin Echoes, a display of each of the 3,000 Sai students marching in the ancient Chinese martial art of Kung Fu, unison towards the dais at Shanti Vedika which exhibits the traits of speed, strength, offering their salutations to their Revered agility and calmness of mind through Founder Chancellor. This was followed by synchronised Kung Fu styles, thrilling

9 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi Contents Page Subscribe Online Sanathana Sarathi Archives Darshan Updates Video Links combats and brisk flag moves. This was building of the campus in the backdrop followed by Drumebaaz, an admixture of highlighted the milestone. energising Indian beats and spellbinding Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School and Prasanthi Nilayam Campus of the Institute followed this with a combined presentation. Their first performance was Waves, a display of waves formation without

Brindavan students producing sonorous beats on drums. sounds of drums. The performance was a confluence of colour and rhythm. They concluded with the Red Stallions, who Display of waves formation by Higher gave the audience a breathtaking display Secondary School students. of motorbike stunts with feats like the props. It comprised different types of waves using coordinated movements of body parts with an appropriate colour combination of dresses. A few gymnastic movements added to the spectacle of the presentation. The Lion Dance, always a favourite of our Beloved Sai, then saw performers mimic a lion’s movements in a Chinese Lion’s costume. With acrobatic dance patterns,

A student crossing a hurdle of ring of fire with finesse. triple ramp jumps, wheels of fire, square crisscross and wheelies, amongst others. They ended their performance with a moving human formation of the number 50 and SAI that symbolised the fifty years of the inauguration of the campus by Bhagavan Lions balancing themselves Baba in 1969. A large replica of the main on a structure.

10 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi Contents Page Subscribe Online Sanathana Sarathi Archives Darshan Updates Video Links the lions performed many a daring feat to Evening Session celebrate the ancient Chinese art form. Football, the most globalised sport, also The evening session began at 4 p.m. took part in the event with The Prasanthi with the ceremonial procession welcoming Strikers demonstrating various interesting Bhagavan Baba in Sri Sathya Sai Hill View soccer tricks and skills that a footballer Stadium. develops that are helpful during the training The students of Smt. Easwaramma and the actual game. High School had the honour of the opening Next up were Stellar Starlings, a band performance. Their theme, “The Colours of of gymnasts who performed a sequence of formations and aerial acrobatics done using ropes and trapeze on a structure almost a hundred feet tall. Aerial basketball, yoga and other audacious feats were on display for the thousands of spectators in the stadium. Their other items were martial arts and a gun

A colourful dance by Easwaramma School girls students.

Love”, was truly exemplified through the six items they exhibited. They started with girls who came skipping, prancing, dancing and singing with colourful ribbons and hats. The A vibrant Bhangra dance. nimble boys gymnasts then came together in drill. They concluded their presentation with a united display of strength, skill, focus and a vibrant Bhangra dance and martial arts dexterity. They were ably followed by girls, who displayed rhythmic tides, ever ready to overcome evil with the power of love. Next

Students dressed as brave Punjabi warriors displaying sword fighting skills. display in costumes of warriors showcasing Display of rhythmic tides and balancing skills the brave tradition of the people of Punjab. by Easwaramma School boys students.

11 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi came a colourful dance by children who made many formations. This was followed by sailors who presented a spirited and exuberant dance. They concluded their presentation with a colourful dance to the tune of a semi-classical composition, a blissful melody of love by girls students. Then came the performance of the students of Sri Sathya Sai Primary School who put on the colourful and spectacular set of items. These included Invoking the Primary School girls are all concentration balancing pots while dancing. Indweller, a tribute classical; the Master balancing; the Globe Trotters on the Rise, a performance on the rotating globe portraying the upward rise of the brilliant blazers; Maa Tuje Salaam – nations may rise, nations may fall, but the glory of our Bharat shall be sung forever and ever; Nature’s Exuberance, an ecstatic peacocks dance in sheer delight;

A daring ramp jump over a van by a Primary School student. Gymnasts, an agile exhibition with the theme of bend the body, mend the senses and end the mind; Rainbow Delight in Resplendent These Primary School girls dressed in myriad hues painted the stadium golden with their wings of hope.

Daring Feats on Poles, with the astounding attitude of soaring scalers that determined their awesome altitude and finally Wings of Hope and Love, a cry to say: Lord Sai, You are the wind beneath our wings; to Thee we lovingly offer these fragrant flowers of myriad hues. An exuberant sun dance by Primary The students of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of School boys students. Higher Medical Sciences, College of Nursing Sunlight; Balancing Ballerinas, when the and Allied Health Sciences, Whitefield, young artists displayed the art of perfect Bangalore then performed Sunyata, a

12 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi Display of gracefulness, colour and synchronisation by the Anantapur Campus students. A thematic presentation by Nursing College students. performance, Twirling Spinners, highlighted the complexity and benefits of gymnastics presentation drill that highlighted how every as a sport that involves the performance of human being should achieve Sunyata sequences of events, combining physical (emptiness) in the sense of recognition of skills such as body control, coordination, good and evil with Swami’s love and grace. dexterity, gracefulness, endurance and The students of Anantapur Campus acrobatic skills performed in an artistic presented three items this year. The first, manner. Gymnasts displayed split leaps, Rhythmic Synchronisers, brought to life cartwheels and head stands in rhythmic Guan Yin, a Buddhist dance form. The large moves performed with hoops as apparatus. scale performance staged by 120 students Their final display was a human formation of was a confluence of synchrony, coordination, the term, Our Saga of Love. grace, unity and beauty. The theme then The final slot of the evening was turned to the devotion and veneration reserved for the students of Muddenahalli towards Lord Siva. Natyobics, a mass drill, was a fusion of Natya (dance), yoga and Campus, who brought the event home. aerobics. The performers demonstrated a Their expansive item, Igniters, was a fire- series of formations as an offering to Nataraja.

A fire-based event displaying a beautiful A mass drill by Anantapur Campus students formation by the Muddenahalli – a confluence of dance, yoga and aerobics. Campus students Bringing together the aspects of unanimity, based event using Sticks, Poi, Jaal, Dragon agility and confidence in every movement, Staff, Cubes and Fans with an underlying they instilled a consciousness of divinity theme: ‘All are Sparks of the Divine’. The that is latent within each one of us. The final programme ended at 7.10 p.m. with Arati.

13 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi Music and Cultural Programmes As part of the Annual Sports and Cultural Meet, the students of Bhagavan’s educational institutions presented a number of music and cultural programmes on 12th, 13th, 14th and 15th January 2019. Band music presentation by On 12th January 2019, the students Brindavan brass band. of Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary the immortal epic the Ramayana in Hindi. School performed a thematic drama Through the main episodes of his life, the entitled “Through the Eyes of God” which drama depicted how destiny and devotion made Tulsidas a staunch devotee who was emphatically conveyed, through the story blessed with the Darshan of Hanuman and of an ideal and upright village headman Purushottam that a real devotee of God

The drama “Through the Eyes of God” conveyed the exalted theme that one should see God in everyone. was the one who saw God in everyone and served his fellowmen in need, considering service to man as service to God. Excellent acting of the cast, sublime story, meaningful dialogues and A scene from the drama “Sant Tulsidas: good choreography made the drama an A Journey from Manava to Madhava”. impressive presentation. Rama Himself. Embellished with sweet The students of Brindavan Campus of lyrics of Tulsidas and excellent dances of the Institute made their presentation on the students, the drama illustrated how 13th January 2019. First their brass band true devotion helped man to attain divinity troupe enthralled the devotees with sweet in life. and sublime instrumental music, and then Two very elevating presentations were the students performed an inspiring drama made on 14th January 2019. First, the “Sant Tulsidas: A Journey from Manava to students of Anantapur Campus of the Madhava” which portrayed the illustrious Institute presented a devotional music life story of Sant Tulsidas who composed programme which included Nadaswaram

14 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi Nadaswaram music by The drama “The Way Back to You” illustrated Anantapur Campus students. the theme of oneness of man with God. music and devotional songs. The songs relieve the headache of Krishna and Lord rendered by them were: “Bada Natakhat Siva appearing before Adi Sankara as an Hai Re Krishna Kanhaiya” (Krishna is very outcaste to teach him the path of oneness naughty), a Mira Bhajan “Mhare Ghar were some of the episodes included in the Aaoji Preetam Pyara” (Oh Beloved Lord, drama to illustrate the theme of essential oneness of man with God. Good script, powerful dialogues, lofty theme and excellent direction made the drama a sterling presentation. The final presentation was made by the students of Prasanthi Nilayam Campus of the Institute who enacted the drama “Jnana Prasthanam” (pathway to wisdom) on 15th January 2019. The theme of the drama was beautifully elucidated by the Devotional music programme by story of the competition between Ganesh Anantapur Campus students. and Kartikeya playfully organised by come to my house), a Marathi Abhang Lord Siva and Mother Parvati to illustrate “Sakha Majha Narayan” (Lord Narayan the truth that the entire cosmos was the is my friend), to mention a few. With their hearts full of devotion, the mellifluous rendition of the songs by the students had a mesmerising effect on the audience. After this, the students of Muddenahalli campus of the Institute presented a drama entitled “The Way Back to You”, which elucidated how man was destined to perform the inward journey back to God. The enlightening discussion of the students of a college, the Gopikas of The drama “Jnana Prasthanam” depicted that the cosmos was the manifestation of Brindavan offering the dust of their feet to Siva and Shakti.

15 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi Contents Page Subscribe Online Sanathana Sarathi Archives Darshan Updates Video Links manifestation of Siva and Shakti and the After these speeches, prizes were path of wisdom lay in complete surrender awarded for outstanding performance to this divine principle as shown by Lord in sports and cultural events. First, the Ganesh who won the fruit of wisdom. Founder Chancellor’s trophies were Good script, beautiful dances, excellent awarded to Sri Sathya Sai Primary School. dialogue delivery and good direction made Smt. Easwaramma High School, Sri Sathya the drama an engrossing presentation. Sai Higher Secondary School and College Prize Distribution of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, Function Sathya Sai Mirpuri College of Music and four campuses of the Institute at Prasanthi Prize Distribution Function of the Sports Nilayam, Brindavan, Muddenahalli and and Cultural Meet was held on the sacred day of Makara Sankranti, 15th January 2019. The programme commenced at 8.30 a.m. when the procession of flag bearing slow marching squad of students led by university brass band and Veda chanting group of students entered Sai Kulwant Hall. This was followed by a talk by Dr. R. Sai Sathish, a faculty member of Prasanthi Nilayam Campus of the Institute, who narrated his experiences of earlier Sports and Cultural Meets and observed that it was the Revered Chancellor Bhagavan Baba who infused confidence Prize Distribution Function. and courage in the participants in sports Anantapur. Thereafter, various institutions and cultural events which led to their were awarded prizes for their outstanding excellence in their events. He expressed performance and prizes were given for gratitude to Bhagavan for His assurance individual championships. and protection to the participants. After Bhagavan’s Discourse followed this, in this, five speakers one each from the five which He spoke about the significance of institutions, delivered short speeches stating their experiences of sports events. Makara Sankranti and northward journey In their speeches, the speakers said that of the sun which symbolised man’s inward participation in sports and cultural events journey towards his heart with total purity. was a unique learning experience for Internal happiness, Bhagavan said, was participants who learned the values of unity, true happiness which was possible when coordination, cooperation and discipline. man directed his intellect towards his This also infused self-confidence in the heart. Bhagavan brought His Discourse to participants which was the foundation for a close with the Bhajan “Hari Bhajan Bina Self-realisation. They felt that Sankranti Sukha Santhi Nahin”. Bhajans followed was meant to bring about inner change. this and concluded with Arati.

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face. Swami first called OPPORTUNITY TO the group of women and directed them to SERVE IN BHAGAVAN’S clean the foreground of the Mandir with PRESENCE broomsticks, bamboo baskets and bamboo Kuppam Vijayamma threshers which were lying in the vicinity. Leading the clean- up operation, Swami Swami said, “Every limb of your body gets sanctified took a broomstick in when you engage yourselves in Seva. When Seva is His hand and started really rendered wholeheartedly and with a pure mind, self- sweeping. It was indeed confidence gets fortified. This leads to self-satisfaction an ideal example and with it strong feelings of self-sacrifice. That is Jivita of leadership, the Paramartham (ultimate fulfilment of life). See how you Almighty Lord Himself are able to realise God even without any struggle”! wielding a broomstick and leading from the front. He then called anava Seva is Madhava the group of men and Seva (service to man is service directed them to move out the boulders by M to God) is a famous axiom that using crowbars. He directed us to continue has been in vogue since innumerable with this Seva from 8 to 9 in the morning generations. Seva is indeed Bhagavan’s everyday. “Sing Bhajans while doing Seva. invaluable gift to mankind. It is a well-known By this, your inner divinity ascends to higher fact that our Lord, the phenomenal form of levels. And do not waste your precious time the Almighty Brahman, motivated all and by indulging in worthless gossip.” In this proved to the world beyond any doubt that way, Swami motivated and taught us the Seva was best among all forms of Sadhana importance of Seva. But we could never and the right royal road to reach God. We too imagine that this little Seva Sadan (house of were blessed by Him with the opportunity to service) would in future grow into a gigantic participate in Seva activities. Seva Organisation spreading across the The Genesis of Sri Sathya Sai Seva world. Undoubtedly, this is an example of Dal the impact of the Lord’s Will! Once a group of men and another group Perform Seva with Love of women were waiting in front of the Mandir On 26th February 1955, we were sitting (Prasanthi Nilayam) to have Swami’s in front of the Prasanthi Mandir for the Lord’s Darshan. He emerged like the moon with Darshan. Swami walked towards us smiling bewitching beautiful smile on His lotus-like like the bewitching Krishna. He signalled at

17 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi a few of us and directed us to go and wait in the Mandir Hall. Similarly, He selected some people from the gents’ side also. We were a bit confused as to His intention. Nearly 50 of us were ushered into the Mandir Hall. The Lord entered the Hall, closed the door Himself, sat on His chair and started discoursing. That was the first meeting of the Seva Dal, started by Swami at Prasanthi Nilayam. Swami then spoke to us: “The number of devotees is increasing day by day. It will keep on increasing hereafter. They will gather in droves of thousands. Therefore, it is necessary to keep them silent and disciplined. The reason why I selected only you among so many devotees is because of your past deeds of . All of you must render Seva with a sense of love, devotion and patience towards all devotees. Do not misuse this rare opportunity. Most of them who come here are new to the place, and therefore, you should explain with patience as to how they should conduct themselves with proper discipline. Make them sit in lines and allow them one by one. All these people are your honoured guests. It is your duty to treat them become unruly, you must bring them out well. Why so many people are coming? and pacify them caressingly. You should They are all coming for the sake of Swami. never be harsh towards anyone at any time; Therefore, all of you should treat them like and never talk loudly”. Thereafter, Swami brothers and sisters. Remember that this granted Padanamaskar to all of us, and is a Sai Family. All are My children. When gave us badges containing Om emblem. All you realise that the same God is present in these Seva workers came to be known as others as much as in yourselves, you will Volunteers. It was our daily routine to report never ever resort to hurting. dot on time, do the Seva until all programmes People come in trains and buses at odd were over, and to clean the whole area after hours too. Families along with their children all the devotees had left. reach here tired after a long journey. You (To be continued in the next issue.) must receive them politely, provide proper accommodation and feed them well, to the – Smt. Kuppam Vijayamma is the extent possible. You should supply drinking author of the famous book “Anyatha water to all the devotees waiting in the Saranam Nasti” and many other books Darshan lines. Whenever small children on Bhagavan Baba.

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B H A G A V A N ’ S U P A N A Y A N A M M E S S A G E SANCTIFY YOUR LIFE by chanting gayatri mantra

O N L Y S P I R I T U A L I T Y C A N G R A N T P E A C E O F M I N D

Dear Boys! his is the most auspicious moment of your life. Human life can be T compared to a four-storeyed mansion. The four storeys correspond to four stages of man’s life, viz., Brahmacharya, Grihastha, Vanaprastha and Sannyasa (celibate, , recluse and renunciant). Today you are laying the foundation of the mansion of your life. The safety and security of the mansion is assured once you make the foundation strong and sturdy. Gayatri – the Mother of the Vedas Man has four births. His first birth takes place from his mother’s womb. He gets a second life when he is initiated into the Gayatri Mantra. His third birth occurs when he studies the Vedas. He becomes a Brahmin when he recognises the principle of Brahman. This is his fourth birth. One The subtle part of the food strengthens becomes a Brahmin not merely by birth, but the mind and the subtlest part of the food by knowing the nature of Brahman. For this, purifies the speech. Therefore, food plays a chanting of Gayatri Mantra is very essential. vital role in strengthening and purifying the Man is the embodiment of all gods. In body, mind and speech. fact, the gross form of the food that man Gayatri is Sarvadevata Swarupini and consumes refers to the principle of Brahma. Sarvamantra Swarupini (embodiment of all On this basis, it is said, Annam Brahma, Raso gods and all Mantras). It is said, Gayatri Vishnu (food is Brahma and the essence is Chandasam Mata (Gayatri is the mother of Vishnu). The subtle form of the food denotes the Vedas). There is no need to chant any the principle of Vishnu. The subtlest form other Mantra if you chant the Gayatri Mantra. symbolises the principle of Easwara. The Gayatri has three names: Gayatri, Savitri gross part of the food strengthens the body. and Saraswati. Gayantam Trayate Iti Gayatri

19 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi Contents Page Subscribe Online Sanathana Sarathi Archives Darshan Updates Video Links (Gayatri protects those who sing her glory). you turn your mind away from God. It can Gayatri is the master of the senses. Savitri be overcome only when you turn your mind is the presiding deity of the life principle. towards God. When Gayatri acts as the protector of life Upanayanam Necessary at Early Age force, she is known as Savitri. You might Gayatri is known as Panchamukhi, have heard the story of Savitri, a woman of meaning she has five faces. What are they? chastity, who brought her dead husband, Om is the first face; Bhur Bhuvah Suvah, Sathyavan, back to life with the power of her the second; Tat Savitur Varenyam, the third; . Savitri protects those who lead a life Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi, the fourth; of Sathya (truth). This is the inner meaning. Dhiyo Yo Na Prachodayat is the fifth. Gayatri Saraswati is the presiding deity of speech. Mantra has three parts: praise, meditation Man has to earn the grace of Gayatri, Savitri and prayer. First, the Divine is praised, then and Saraswati to sanctify his life. it is meditated upon in reverence and lastly, Gayatri, Savitri and Saraswati are prayer is offered to the Divine to dispel the latent in everybody. Bhur, Bhuvah and darkness of ignorance and to awaken and Suvah in the Gayatri Mantra refer to body strengthen the intellect. Dheemahi relates (materialisation), life force (vibration) and to the meditative aspect. Dhiyo Yo Na soul (radiation). Bhur means Bhuloka (the Prachodayat relates to the prayer. Chanting earth), which is nothing but the combination of the Gayatri Mantra purifies the mind and of materials. This denotes the human body, confers devotion, detachment and wisdom. which is also a combination of materials. Young men must necessarily chant the Bhuvah refers to the life force, which Gayatri Mantra. Today we find that they makes the body vibrate. Suvah refers to get initiated into the Gayatri Mantra at an Prajna Shakti, which sustains the life force. advanced stage of their youth. Intellect will This Prajna Shakti is known as Constant blossom and shine in all its splendour after Integrated Awareness. This is also termed as initiation into the Gayatri Mantra. That is why radiation. All the three, viz., materialisation, it is essential that Upanayanam be done at vibration and radiation are present in man. I the age of eight. One who is initiated into the tell you often, you are not one, but three – Gayatri Mantra at an early age will become the one you think you are (physical body), highly intelligent. Man’s life will be sanctified the one others think you are (mental body) by chanting this Mantra. and the one you really are (Atma). Dear Boys! Gayatri is the embodiment of the mother Today is a sacred day. In fact, it is the principle. You should chant the Gayatri foundation day of your life. Make this Mantra everyday, in the morning, noon and foundation strong and sturdy. Then the evening. These are referred to as Prata mansion of life raised on this foundation will Sandhya, Madhyahna Sandhya and Sayam also be strong and secure. This will give Sandhya. When your back is towards the strength to the grand edifice of our nation. sun, your shadow will be in front of you. It will – From Bhagavan’s Discourse on fall behind you only when you stand facing 10th February 2000 in Sai Kulwant Hall, the sun. Similarly, Maya (illusion), which is Prasanthi Nilayam on the occasion of like your shadow, will overpower you when Mass Upanayanam.

20 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi Contents Page Subscribe Online Sanathana Sarathi Archives Darshan Updates Video Links Effulgence of Divine Glory TRANSFORMATION Dr. S.K. Upadhyay

n one occasion, one of my colleagues at the clinic was supposed O to examine a blind gentleman who was also on insulin. Everyone thought there was nothing much that could be done for him. My colleague was overstressed and got very angry and started shouting when he learned that the man had forgotten to bring his urine sample. This poor man became very frightened and left the clinic. When he went to the Institute for the Blind, he was happy to say that, even though he is an old given my name and told he must have his man, he can now see and read very well. eyes checked. However, he was scared He cried while expressing his gratitude. I to go back to the clinic. I came to know of told him, “Don’t thank me, thank Sai Baba”. this and approached him saying, “Please When he learned about Swami, he started brother, don’t go to the same clinic; come to attending Bhajans. He can go by bus and me and we will examine your eyes”. he now has many Sai friends. People visit Notice how Swami sets the drama. him, take him for outings, and he attends Because I did not know anything about Bhajans regularly. This has totally changed this man, I started the examination from his life. This is how the principle of love can scratch. Recently, there had been a bring not only reward to the patient but a lot of developments in technology and great deal of satisfaction to the surgeon. procedures had improved. I realised that something could be done for this man. I Since I have come into the Sai fold, felt that there was a chance he might be the moment I enter the operating theatre able to see. He experienced the intense (OT) or am about to see a patient, I always love in my practice, and I remember him pray: “Make me an instrument and help me saying, “It doesn’t matter if I can see or not, cure or help this patient”. When I used to but I am so happy there is someone who enter the OT, there was tension before the can talk to me so lovingly. My wife left me; operation or during the procedure if there I have no children; I live alone and hardly was a complication. This would show in anyone visits me; I’ve lost all my friends”. my behaviour and I would become a little Despite his extreme shortsightedness and irritable. But ever since coming to Swami, the diabetes, there was great potential for I have found a great deal of calmness. I him, so we performed the surgery. I am very continued on page 22...

21 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi World Cannot Exist Chinna Katha Without Noble Souls

nce upon a time, Buddha was traversing all over the country in order O to propagate Truth. On reaching a particular village, Buddha felt tired and was not in a position to deliver his discourse. So, he told one of his chief disciples to address the congregation. Buddha went inside to take rest. As he could not get sleep, he was listening to what his disciple was saying. The disciple said, “O people, a person like Buddha was never born before and will never be born again in future. We are all very fortunate to be his contemporaries. So, Buddha chided his disciple for saying that noble souls like Buddha would not make the best use of this golden opportunity”. be born again.. On hearing this, the congregation gave a thunderous applause. Nityananda, saying, “You have not seen much of the world. You are just thirty-five Buddha came out and asked his disciple, years old. With what authority can you say “Nityananda, how old are you”? Nityananda that a person like Buddha was not born told that he was thirty-five years old. Buddha before and will not be born again? Many then asked, “Have you travelled far and noble souls were born and many more will wide”? Nityananda told that he had visited be born in future. The world cannot exist if only a few cities. Then Buddha chided there are no noble souls in it”.

...continued from page 21 offer my and surrender totally to the Swami’s ultimate teaching is: service to man Lord. When I handle the knife, I no longer is service to God. When you are serving feel any tension. I used to get nervous but your fellow man, you no longer think that you with prayer or keeping Sai Baba’s locket on are serving the person who is sitting in front my neck or having a picture of Sai in front of of you. You think that your service to your me, I would feel very relaxed. patient is reaching Swami. This fundamental However, in the past there were many teaching has changed my attitude towards occasions where I was in doubt about the patient. I no longer have to worry about what decision to make. He has made it making a decision, because I know, if these very simple for me. I close my eyes and principles are in front of me, I will always say, “Swami, what should I do”? The reply make the right decision. comes, “Would you do it for your mother or – Excerpted from the article of Dr. father? If yes, then go ahead and do it”. I S.K. Upadhyay in the book “Inspired never have had any problems since then. Medicine” by Judy Warner Scher. Contents Page Subscribe Online Sanathana Sarathi Archives Darshan Updates Video Links

Se Samvaad” (communication with God) PILGRIMAGE OF DEVOTEES which they performed on 29th December FROM RAJASTHAN 2018. The drama depicted the conversation ri Sathya Sai Seva between Lord Rama and the boatman Organisation of Rajasthan Kevat from the Ramayana, between Lord S organised a three-day Parthi Krishna and Arjuna and Duryodhana from Yatra (pilgrimage to Puttaparthi) of the Mahabharata, between Guru Nanak devotees from Rajasthan from 27th to 29th and a devotee Dunichand, and between December 2018 which was marked by two Bhagavan Baba and His devotees and excellent music and cultural programmes students to bring forth invaluable lessons by the devotees. On 28th December 2018, for man’s spiritual progress. The drama the singers of this State presented a gave the message that man should learn bouquet of devotional songs entitled “Sai to communicate with God to attain the Spandan” to offer their love and reverence goal of his life. to Bhagavan. Some of the songs rendered ALUMNI MEET 2019 by them were: “Mira Ki Dharti Ke Sraddha Suman” (flowers of devotion from the land A large number of alumni of Sri of Mira), “Mana Re Parsi Hari Ke Charan” Sathya Sai Primary School, Sri Sathya (Oh mind! Take at the Lotus Feet Sai Higher Secondary School, Sathya of God). “Sai Maa Sai Maa”, “Tu Chala Re Sai Mirpuri College of Music and Sri Parthi Dhaam” (go over to Puttaparthi). Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning The second presentation of the devotees came to Prasanthi Nilayam to participate of Rajasthan was a thematic drama “Iswar in the Alumni Meet 2019 and to reaffirm their Prema Bandham (bond of love) with Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba who nurtured and guided them in their formative years during their tenure as His students. The alumni expressed their love and gratitude to Bhagavan through music and cultural programmes lovingly presented by them on 30th December 2018, 31st December 2018 and 1st January 2019. The first presentation entitled “Sai Sumiran” was made by the alumni of Sathya Sai Mirpuri College of Music on 30th December 2018. Beginning with an The drama “Iswar Se Samvaad” by the invocatory prayer song dedicated to Lord devotees of Rajasthan. Ganesh, the alumni offered a banquet of Devotees were thereafter blessed with a Divine Discourse of Bhagavan, in which He underlined the importance of love in the life of man. If man developed love in his heart, there would be no hatred in the world, said Bhagavan. He exhorted the devotees to leave selfishness and ego and “Sai Sumiran”, a music presentation by the base their life only on the principle of love. alumni of Sathya Sai Mirpuri College of Music. Bhagavan concluded His Discourse with devotional songs to their Mother Sai which the Bhajan “Govinda Krishna Jai Gopala included “Natana Sundara Sivaya” (Siva, Krishna Jai”, which the entire assembly of the divine cosmic dancer), “Bho Shambho devotees and students followed in chorus Siva Shambho Swayambho” (Siva, the with deep devotion. self-born), “Sai Tum Ho Jivan Sahara” The final presentation was made by the (Sai, You are the refuge of my life). alumni of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Sri Sathya Sai Primary and Higher Learning on 1st January 2019. At the Secondary School alumni made their outset, the Institute brass band welcomed presentation on 31st December 2018. At New Year with sweet and sublime musical the outset, the children of alumni (girls) notes on the morning of 1st January 2019. presented a magnificent dance dedicated What followed next was an elevating to Lord Ganesh. This was followed by a programme of mass recitation of Sri drama entitled “Living with Sai, Living for Sathya Sai Ashtottara Shata Namavali (108 Names of Bhagavan) by the entire assembly of devotees and students in Sai Kulwant Hall which saturated the entire milieu with sacred vibrations of the Divine Name. An inspiring and insightful talk by one of the Institute alumni, Sri Bharat Sethuraman from Bahrain followed this. Sri Sethuraman narrated his rich experiences with Bhagavan during his student days and shared with the audience some invaluable lessons learnt by him A scene from the drama “Living with Sai, directly from Bhagavan which had a life- Living for Sai, Living in Sai”. changing effect on him. Giving essence of Sai, Living in Sai” which depicted through his experience, he emphasised that one the story of a family of grandfather, father should never forget the omnipresence and son, all Sai students, that the only way of Bhagavan and should perform one’s to attain Bhagavan was to fill the heart with duty promptly and meticulously. Bhajans pure and sacred love. The flashback of the followed next and concluded with Arati. episode of Gopalas of Brindavan and Lord The programme in the evening Krishna illustrated this theme beautifully. started when a grand procession of

24 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi The drama “The Journey” symbolising A grand procession of Institute alumni. man’s journey to God. Institute alumni led by a flag-bearing Krishna through their sacred and pure slow marching squad followed by a Veda love for Him, showcasing that love was the chanting group of alumni entered Sai essence of all the teachings of Krishna as Kulwant Hall. The slow marching squad also of Bhagavan Baba which could lead gracefully made a canopy of flags to offer man to his oneness with Him. Sublime their salutations to Bhagavan while Veda story, engrossing dialogues and excellent chanting group offered Poornakumbham make-up and costumes made the drama a at Bhagavan’s Samadhi. An instrumental sterling presentation. music presentation by the alumni band NINTH ALL INDIA BAL followed next. Time stood still when these VIKAS ALUMNI MEET AND SIXTH ALL INDIA BAL VIKAS CONVOCATION Ninth All India Bal Vikas Alumni Meet along with sixth All India Bal Vikas Convocation was held at Prasanthi Nilayam on 5th and 6th January 2019, in which a large number of Bal Vikas students, Gurus and alumni from all over Instrumental music by alumni brass band. India came to participate. The Alumni Meet past masters of the Institute brass band this year was marked by much enthusiasm produced some nostalgic tunes. A video and grandeur since this was the golden film was screened after this, in which Seva jubilee year of Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas. initiatives of the alumni in all parts of the Proceedings on 5th January 2019 world were shown. The proceedings of the morning session The last item of the programme of commenced with chanting of Vedic hymns Institute alumni was a very touching drama, by the Bal Vikas students (girls) from the “The Journey” which depicted man’s States of Odisha, Sikkim and Bihar. A journey to God and his ultimate oneness variety of magnificent music and cultural with Him. This journey was illustrated programmes followed this, which included by the illustrious life stories of Parikshit, beautiful band music by the Bal Vikas Uddhava and Radha who attained Lord children from Andhra Pradesh, a short

25 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi The proceedings of the evening session began at 4.30 p.m. with Veda chanting by Bal Vikas students (boys) from the States of Tamil Nadu, Sikkim and Odisha. A sweet and melodious Swarna Jayanti (golden jubilee) song thereafter was presented by the Bal Vikas students of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Short speeches by the Bal Vikas alumni followed this, in which alumni spoke about Band music by Bal Vikas children from Andhra Pradesh. how Bal Vikas had provided a strong film entitled “Heralding the Golden Jubilee foundation for their life and channelised of Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Movement” their minds in the right direction to bring and an inspiring speech by a Bal Vikas about transformation in their life. Release girl student. Thereafter, achievement of a book “Golden Memories: Sri Sathya awards were presented to those Bal Vikas Sai Bal Vikas” followed this. This was alumni who furthered the work of Bal followed by presentation of another set of Vikas with commitment and dedication. achievement awards to selected alumni Two scintillating presentations followed for their excellence in work for Bal Vikas. this. The first was a Garbha Dance by Bal A solemn ceremony was thereafter held to felicitate the parents of a Bal Vikas alumnus who martyred his life for India. Two enrapturing presentations followed this. The first was an excellent dance performance entitled “Sai Heritage in Himachal Pradesh” commemorating Bhagavan’s visit to Shimla and the second was a Bhajan medley by Bal Vikas students

Garbha dance by Bal Vikas students from Gujarat. Vikas students (girls) from Gujarat and the second was a devotional music offering by Bal Vikas alumni from Karnataka. The morning programme concluded with Bhajans led by Bal Vikas students and Arati to Bhagavan. The next session of the Alumni Meet was held in Poornachandra An excellent dance performance “Sai Auditorium. Heritage in Himachal Pradesh”.

26 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi (boys) from West Bengal and Bal Vikas students (girls) from Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Bhajans followed next and concluded with Arati. Proceedings on 6th January 2019 The proceedings on 6th January 2019 began with Veda chanting at 8.00 a.m. followed by the convocation procession led by Bal Vikas band from Release of postal cover and stamp to mark the golden jubilee of Bal Vikas. by the Chief Guest, Sri Rajeev Bindal, Speaker, Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly. Speaking on this occasion, Sri Bindal observed that beginning of

Bal Vikas band from Alike, Karnataka leading the procession. Alike, Karnataka and presentation of Wand of Transformation. A melodious golden jubilee song by Bal Vikas students (boys) from Delhi and Bal Vikas (girls) from Maharashtra and Goa followed this. Sri Nimish Pandya, All India President, Sri Rajeev Bindal, Speaker, Himachal Pradesh Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation, then Legislative Assembly addressing the gathering. addressed the gathering. Delineating the progress of Bal Vikas movement, Bal Vikas movement by Bhagavan Baba Sri Pandya stated that at present there for the individual transformation of the were about 20,000 Bal Vikas centres with children was a giant step towards the 3,00,000 students. More than 50 lakh transformation of the country and the students had passed Bal Vikas course in world at large. Bal Vikas, he said, was a the last 50 years, he added. unique example of developing excellence After this informative talk of Sri Pandya, in children. a postal special cover and stamp issued Benediction ceremony of Bal Vikas by the postal department to mark the students who successfully passed the golden jubilee of Bal Vikas was released Bal Vikas course was held after this. As

27 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi PILGRIMAGE OF YOUNG ADULTS FROM AUSTRALIA More than 100 Sai Young Adults came on a 14 days pilgrimage to Prasanthi Nilayam from Sathya Sai International Organisation, Australia from 12th to 26th January 2019 to bask in the sacred Benediction Ceremony of Bal Vikas students ambience of this abode of supreme the students stood up in the hall, the peace. On 18th January 2019, they customary oath was administered to presented a devotional music programme them. The Benediction Address followed comprising devotional songs preceded the Benediction Ceremony, which was by short speeches expressing their love delivered by Dr. Teerakiat Jareonsettasin, Minister of Education, Government of

A devotional music presentation by Young Adults from Australia. Dr. Teerakiat Jareonsettasin, Minister of and gratitude to Bhagavan. Beginning Education, Thailand delivering their presentation with a Jewish prayer the Benediction Address. song “Adon Olam Asher Malach”, they Thailand. Quoting the saying of Bhagavan melodiously rendered sweet songs in Baba that education was for life and not Telugu, English and Hindi which included for a living, the distinguished speaker “Tere Darbar Mein Hum Aaye Hain Aaj” (we have come to your abode), “Be the observed that Bal Vikas education was Love that you are”. The entire presentation for life. Sharing his experiences with was marked by deep devotion, melody Bhagavan, he stated how Bhagavan taught and music which cast a mesmerising spell him to develop fundamental discrimination on the listeners. which benefited all. Another edition of achievement PILGRIMAGE OF DEVOTEES awards followed this, wherein awards FROM KERALA were presented to Bal Vikas alumni for Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation of excellence in advancing the work of Kerala organised a three-day Parthi Yatra Bal Vikas. Bhajans followed next and for a team of doctors, lawyers and media concluded with Arati, bringing the curtain persons representing the doctors forum, down on this grand celebration. lawyers forum and media forum of the

28 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi Contents Page Subscribe Online Sanathana Sarathi Archives Darshan Updates Video Links State Sai Organisation, in which about Whitefield, Bengaluru was celebrated at 200 persons came to participate from 18th Prasanthi Nilayam on 20th January 2019. to 20th January 2019. The programme themed as “Offering of On 19th January 2019, Sri Gopinath, Gratitude to Bhagavan” began at 5.00 Chief Editor of Mathrubhumi group of p.m. with release of the hospital magazine publications, gave an illuminating talk “Manohriday” which was followed by a talk which was followed by a devotional musical by the Director of the hospital, Dr. D.C. presentation. Referring to the institutions Sundaresh. Presenting the highlights of set up by Bhagavan, the learned speaker the work done in the hospital in the year observed that these institutions not only 2018, Dr. Sundaresh stated that though benefited the masses, but they inspired the volume of work had increased in the many people to follow the path of love, hospital substantially, the hospital was sacrifice and selfless service to mankind. serving the patients without compromising On a personal note, Sri Gopinath stated that he was inspired by Bhagavan’s with the quality of healthcare. Offering philosophy of love and selfless service gratitude to Bhagavan, Dr. Sundaresh for all. After this talk, a noted singer, stated that Bhagavan has continued to Sri Anantha Sai and his team of fellow shower His grace, the sign of which was musicians presented a devotional music continuous flow of Vibhuti in the hospital. programme. Beginning his programme After this, the staff members of the hospital presented devotional songs which were interspersed with short speeches of

Devotional music presentation by Sri Anantha Sai. with a song dedicated to Lord Ganesh, Devotional songs by the staff of the singer followed it with a couple of SSSIHMS, Whitefield. classical compositions, an evergreen some of them who narrated their beautiful song “Madhura Mohana Ghanashyama experiences of Bhagavan’s love and grace. Sundara Sai” (Krishna is full of sweet The songs rendered by the staff members charm) and an elevating Kirtan, “Hari Hari included “Pyare Sai Hum Tumhare Liye” Narayan”. (Beloved Sai, we live for You). “Tera Pyar 18TH ANNIVERSARY OF Pakar” (we are recipients of Your love), SSSIHMS, WHITEFIELD “Karuna Swarupa Bhagavan, Prema The 18th anniversary of Sri Sathya Swarupa Bhagavan” (Bhagavan is the Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences, embodiment of compassion and love).

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33 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi Contents Page Subscribe Online Sanathana Sarathi Archives Darshan Updates Video Links

34 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi Contents Page Subscribe Online Sanathana Sarathi Archives Darshan Updates Video Links

35 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi Contents Page Subscribe Online Sanathana Sarathi Archives Darshan Updates Video Links

About Sri Sathya Sai Sadhana Trust Get Sanathana Sarathi Publications Division (SSSSTPD) On Sanathana Sarathi official website – On 1st January, 2009, Sri Sathya Sai www.sanathanasarathi.org – subscribe Sadhana Trust (SSSST) commenced for paperback and e-versions. Single operations with four divisions; the Bhakta monthly editions are also downloadable Sahayak divisions (one in Prasanthi in English and Telugu languages at http:// Nilayam, Puttaparthi and another in bit.ly/sarathienglish and http://bit.ly/ Brindavan, Bangalore), the Publications sarathitelugu. division, and the Media division. Other Books By SSSSTPD (In English) The Publications Division (SSSSTPD) 1. Sai Sathya Sakha caters to: 2. Summer Showers In Brindavan, 1972 1) The publication and distribution of 3. Satyopanisad I spiritual, religious, and educational 4. Satyopanisad II Sai Literature and the production 5. Gurudev and distribution of audio and visual 6. Namasmarana multimedia, photographs, calendars, and 7. Bhakthi And Health diaries for the benefit of visiting pilgrims 8. Life Is Love, Enjoy It! and devotees all over the world. All the 9. Life Is A Challenge, Meet It! literature and publications are based on 10. Life Is A Dream, Realize It! the teachings, philosophy, message, and 11. Bhagawan And Bhakta values of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. 12. Body And Mind 2) The publication and distribution of 13. My Dear Ones Bhagavan Baba’s monthly spiritual 14. Sevadal journal - Sanathana Sarathi - in English 15. Silence and Telugu languages. Since 2011, 16. Suffering e-version of the magazine is also released 17. Surrender simultaneously and is available in the 18. Atma popular Interactive PDF format on www. 19. Do You Know sanathanasarathi.org. 20. Gopikas Of Brindavan 3) Maintaining a reporting channel www. 21. Gratitude theprasanthireporter.org, which covers 22. My Beloved Ones all the major activities taking place in 23. Only Love Prasanthi Nilayam, and publishing an 24. Purity e-newsletter ‘Sai Spiritual Showers’- for 25. Memoirs Of A Sai Student free distribution. 26. A Journey To Self-Peace 4) Providing library and Reading room 27. Dharma for visiting devotees, with a very large 28. Guru collection of books written by Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba and books on Bhagavan besides various spiritual and religious books. 36 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi Contents Page Subscribe Online Sanathana Sarathi Archives Darshan Updates Video Links 29. Karma 30. Life 31. Meditation 32. Peace 33. Simple Truths 34. Nama Mahima 35. Divine Vibrations 36. Guidelines To Active Workers 37. Sri Sathya Sai Anandadayi 38. Truth, Auspiciousness, Beauty 39. Sai Baba’s Mahavakya On Leadership 40. Path To Peace - Prayers for Daily Life

Connect with SSSSTPD The Publications Division’s websites are 1. Sri Sathya Sai Publications – www.srisathyasaipublications.com 2. Sanathana Sarathi – www.sanathanasarathi.org 3. Sai Reflections – www.saireflections.org 4. The Prasanthi Reporter – www.theprasanthireporter.org

37 February 2019 Sanathana Sarathi Contents Page Subscribe Online Sanathana Sarathi Archives Darshan Updates Video Links

REGD. WITH REGISTRAR OF NEWSPAPERS R.NO.10774/1958 REGN.NO. HDP/002/2018-2020 Licenced to post without prepayment No.PMGK/RNP/WPP-01/2018-2020

Date of Publication: 1st February 2019

Be a True Human Being You should not crave for pleasures. They Band music display by Institute brass band on New Year day. breed diseases. You should dedicate everything to the Divine through sacrifice. Bend your body and work hard. Your hands should be busy in work and your mind should be filled with good

Easwaramma School students feelings. If you do so, there will be no dancing joyfully to the tune of a song. greater man than you. Such a person is a true human being. God is in search of such a true human being.

– Baba

Primary School students singing the National Song “Vande Mataram”.

Annual Subscription English (12 issues) India `75. Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka `600. Other Countries `850 or US $19 or UK £13 or ¤13, CAN $22, AUS $26. Acceptable for 1, 2 or 3 years. Payment for print and electronic editions can be made online through our website: www.sanathanasarathi.org or through conventional methods such as M.O. or D.D. or Personal Cheque to The Convener, Sri Sathya Sai Sadhana Trust, Publications Division, Prasanthi Nilayam - 515134. A.P., India.

Printed by K.S. RAJAN Published by K.S. RAJAN On behalf of the owner Sri Sathya Sai Sadhana Trust, Publications Division, Prasanthi Nilayam 515134, Anantapur District (A.P.) And Printed at M/s Rajhans Enterprises, 136, 4th Main Road, Industrial Town, Rajaji Nagar, Bengaluru - 560044, Karnataka And published at Sri Sathya Sai Sadhana Trust, Publications Division, Prasanthi Nilayam 515134, Anantapur Dist., Andhra Pradesh. Editor: G.L. ANAND