DHARMAKSHETRA ABODE OF SRI SATHVA SAl
HAND BOOI<
SRI SATHVA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA
Dharmakshetra: Mahal Sai Prem: Plot 13/A, Balaji Mandir Marg, Sector lOA, Vashi, Navi Mumbai. 400705. (as on 3rd November 2017) COMMUNICATION CO-ORDINATES Dharmakshetra Sai Prem, Vashi Shri K. B. Santhanam, PRO Shri P. 5. Haral, PRO Land line- (022) 28377999 Land line- (022) 27801867 Mobile No. + 91 98672 62734 Mobile No.+ 91 9967498229 Websites : Sri Sathya Sai Trust, Maharashtra- www.ssso.net Dharmakshetra E:t Sai Prem- www.dharmakshetra.org A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA Preface AUM SRI SAl RAM It's nothing short of a Divinely ordained significant coincidence that Dharmakshetra - the first of the three key institutions (Sathyam, Shivam & Sundaram) established by Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, apartfrom Prashanthi Nilayam,, during his Avatarhood is managed by Sri Sathya Sai Trust, Maharashtra -thefirst Trust to be formed in 196 7 by the Avatar. The Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust in Prashanthi Nilayam was formed subsequently in the year 1972. Details of the Trustees and the activities ofthe Maharashtra Trust are given in the handbook. Dharmakshetra, established in 1967, is celebrating its Golden Jubilee Year from 3'd November 2017 to 2"d November 2018. Swamy had repeatedly declared during His physical sojourn that Dharmakshetra, in the future, would become a Pilgrimage Centre as holy as Varanasi (Kashi}, Badrinath and Kedarnath; that it would become an International Spiritual Centre for spiritual seekers from around the globe. In line with Bhagawan's Vision & Philosophy, the Sri Sathya Sai Trust, Maharashtra has decided to celebrate the Golden Jubilee Year of Dharmakshetra as a multi-faith, multi-cultural and multi-national event. The process of transforming Dharmakshetra into an International Spiritual Centre has been kick started by the Trust, with the setting up of Sri Sathya Sai Wellness Centre in Dharmakshetra in 2015, which happens to be the last major project approved by Swamy physically. Sri Sathya Sai Trust, Maharashtra is finalizing plans for the Golden Jubilee Celebrations and establishment of an International Spiritual Centre. Given that Swamy's legacy belongs to entire humanity-as His devotees belong to all castes, creeds, religions and nationalities; this is a clarion call to one and all, to join hands to transform Dharmakshetra into an International Spiritual Centre. To facilitate participation ofone and all, this Handbook is being placed in your hands to bridge the perceived 'Information Deficit' as regards Dharmakshetra; so as to enable all willing souls to participate in this Divine transformative journey ofthe Lord's Chosen abode-Dharmakshetra. 4 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST. MAHARASHTRA Each and everyone can participate in this epoch making journey of morphing "Dharmakshetra" into an International Spiritual Centre. Illustratively, one can participate as a member I volunteer in any of Dharmakshetra's activities spanning Educare, Medicare & Sociocare projects besides spiritual activities; as a bhajan singer; as a participant in the monthly Study Circle; as a devotee; or as a donor I sponsor for the various activities in Dharmakshetra. The Trust welcomes one and all to join this unique journey- nonpareil, by all accounts, in the annals ofhuman history. Convenor Sri Sathya Sai Trust, Maharashtra A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST. MAHARASHTRA 5 All religions are but the same, though they represent different paths to Divinity- All faiths & religions are welcome in Sri Sathya Sai Organisations. There's absolutely no discrimination, whatsoever. -Sri Sathya Sai Baba 6 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA AUM SRI SAl RAM HAND BOOK OF DHARMAKSHETRA (INCLUDING SAl PREM) GENERAL INDEX Sr.No. Particulars Page No. Preface...... 4 Brief Profile of Dharmakshetra ...... 13 II Nostalgia ...... 25 Ill Dharmal A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 7 (ii) Sai Prem ...... 46 Educare Medicare Sociocare Spiritual XII Nine-Point Code of Conduct for devotees ...... so XIII Fascinating facts about Dharmakshetra ...... so XIV A note of prayer to Bhagawan ...... 53 ------.ee~=E<>~e.•------ 8 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA HAND BOOK OF DHARMAKSHETRA (INCLUDING SAl PREM) DETAILED INDEX Sr. No. Particulars Page Nos. Preface...... 4 Brief Profile of Dharmakshetra ...... 13 On the Hill...... 17 Sathyam Anand l Down the Hill ...... 20 Shanti Deep Wellness Centre Pragnya Deep Medical Centre Jalan Mandap How to join as a Member I Volunteer?...... 25 II Nostalgia ...... 25 Ill Dharmakshetra- Spiritual message behind the Architecture ...... 26 IV Trustees : Names & Profiles ...... 28 Shri Dr. Keki Mistry Shri P. Vijaya Bhaskar Shri Nimish Pandya Shri Shivajirao Jadhav v Council of Management - Members ...... 30 VI Sai Prem- Managing Committee ...... 30 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 9 Sr.No. Particulars Page Nos. VII Properties under Sri Sathya Sai Trust, Maharashtra ...... 30 VIII Activities ...... 30 (I) Dharmakshetra ...... 31 (1) Educare related activities "Love that inspires" (2) Medicare related activities "Love that heals" (3) Sociocare related activities "Love that transforms" (4) Spiritual activities -Morning -Evening (5) Special Activities (II) Sai Prem ...... 33 (1) Educare related activities "Love that inspires" (2) Medicare related activities "Love that heals" (3) Socia care related activities - "Love that transforms" (4) Spiritual activities -Morning -Evening (5) Special Activities IX Sponsorship I Donations ...... 34 X How to reach Dharmakshetra & Sai Prem? ...... 35 10 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA Sr.No. Particulars Page Nos. XI Seva Personnel ...... 36 Dharmakshetra ...... 36 - Volunteers in Trust Office ...... 36 - Educare ...... 37 - Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vihar - Prathamik School - Madhya mil< School - Special activities - Medicare...... 37 - Super speciality - Eye Care Unit - OPD - Doctors - Volunteers - Sociocare ...... 40 - Garden duty volunteers - Rangoli - House Keeping Group - Narayan Seva - Male - Mahila - Tailoring - Spiritual ...... 43 - Bhajan Mandir - Combined Study Circle - Mahila Study Circle - Wellness Centre volunteers - Studio Sai Prem ...... 46 - Educare ...... 46 - Coaching Classes A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 11 Sr.No. Particulars Page Nos. - Medicare ...... 47 - Sociocare ...... 48 - Narayan Seva volunteers - Spiritual...... 48 - Bhajan - Study Circle - Vedam & Rudrabhishekam XII Nine-Point Code of Conduct for Devotees ...... 50 XIII Fascinating, but Little known facts about Dharmal XIV A note of Prayer to Bhagawan ...... 53 ------.e~~EE~~=E•e------ 12 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA I. Brief Profile of Dharmakshetra Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba - our Divine Lord and Master in His Divine Mission of uniting and uplifting mankind has established three key institutions apart from Prashanthi Nilayam - Satyam in Dharmakshetra in Mumbai, Sivam in Hyderabad and Sundaram in Chennai. Among the three, Dharmakshetra happens to be the first institution which Swamy has established. Dharmakshetra has played a pivotal role in Swamy's Avatharic Mission. To illustrate, Sri Sathya Sai Seva Dal, Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas. and Sri Sathya Sai Mahila Vibhag have all been started in Mumbai after Dharmakshetra was inaugurated. Bhagawan, in His speech on Dharmakshetra Day in 1969 (i.e. 12th May 1969) had given the following Message to all of us about Dharmakshetra- "Dharmal After inauguration on 12th May 1968, Swamywilled that the very FIRST World Conference of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation be conducted in the campus of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan between 16 & 19 May, 1968 in Mumbai. A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 13 Your duty is to cultivate humility, forbearance and sincerity and make the City of Bombay, which is the stomach of Bharath, healthy and clean. Then only can Bharath be happy. That is why the Dharma Kshetra (Mansion of Morality) and the Dharma Stupa (Monument of Morality) have been erected first in your city. -Excerpts from Swamy's speech in Dharmakshetra On 11.5.1975 on the eve of dedication I inauguration of Dharma Stupa in Dharmakshetra P.S : The Sarva Dharma Stupa in Prashanthi Nilayam, incidentally was inaugurated by Bhagawan in 1975 on His Birthday i.e. 23'd November 1975 (i.e. 6 months after inauguration of the Dharma Stupa in Dharmakshetra in Mumbai). On 1 th May 1968 during the First World Conference, Swamy, for the first time proclaimed to world at Large, that He is indeed the Supreme Being, descended upon earth. He proclaimed: " World Conferences dedicated to religion or spiritual problems have, no doubt, been held before also, conferences offollowers of particular faiths. But these have been held only after the demise of the founders and Divine inspirers. This is the very first time that a World Conference is held of persons devoted, while the Incarnation is present before everyone, with the body assumed for the purpose, bearing the Name that is chosen for it by itself I must tell you this fact, because ninety-nine persons out of hundred among you do not know My Reality. You have come here drawn by diverse needs, a taste for spiritual matters, eagerness to develop the institutions to which you are attached, admiration or affection, love or reverence or a spurt of enthusiasm to join others 14 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA and share with others your own exultation. In truth, you cannot understand the nature of My Reality either today or even after a thousand years of steady austerity or ardent inquiry even if all mankind joins in that effort. But, in a short time, you will become cognizant of the bliss showered by the Divine Principle, which has taken upon itself this sacred body and this sacred name. Your good fortune, which has provided you this chance, is greater than what was available for anchorites, monks, sages, saints and even personalities embodying facets of Divine Glory! Since I move about with you, eat like you, and talk with you, you are deluded into the belief that this is but an instance of common humanity. Be warned against this mistake. I am also deluding you by My singing with you, talking with you, and engaging Myself in activities with you. But, any moment, My Divinity may be revealed to you; you have to be ready, prepared for the moment. Since Divinity is enveloped by human-ness you must endeavour to overcome the maya (delusion) that hides it from you reyes. This is a human form in which every Divine entity, every Divine Principle, that is to say, all the Names and Forms ascribed by man to God, are manifest. Do not allow doubt to distract you; if you only install, in the altar ofyour heart, steady faith in My Divinity, you can win a Vision of My Reality. Instead, if you swing like the pendulum of a clock, one moment-devotion another moment-disbelief, you can never succeed in comprehending the Truth and win that Bliss. You are very fortunate that you have a chance to experience the bliss of the vision of the Sarvadaivatha Swarupa (the form, which embodies all forms ofall Gods) now, in this life itself. Let me draw your attention to another fact. On previous occasions A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 15 when God incarnated on earth, the bliss of recognizing Him in the incarnation was bestowed only after the physical embodiment had left the world, in spite of plenty of patent evidences of His Grace. And the loyalty and devotion they commanded from men arose through fear and awe, at their superhuman powers and skills of their imperial and penal authority. But, ponder a moment on this Sathya Sai Manifestation; in this age of rampant materialism, aggressive disbelief and irreverence, what is it that brings to it the adoration of millions from all over the world ? You will be convinced that the basic reason for this is the fact that this is the Supra-worldly Divinity in Human form. So utilise the chance of association with Me as much as possible and endeavour as quickly and as best as you can, to follow the directions that I have been giving. Obeying My instructions is enough; it will benefit you more than the most rigorous asceticism. Practice Sathya (Truth}, Dharma (Righteousness}, Shanthi (Peace) and Premo (Love}, which are dear to me; resolve to keep those ideals before you ever, in all your thoughts, words and deeds. That can confer on you the summum bonum of mergence in the Supreme Substance of Divinity." Excerpts from Swamy's Speech in Mumbai on 17. 5. 1968 16 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST. MAHARASHTRA A brief sketch about the individual buildings in the precincts of Dharmakshetra is given below: Sathyam - This is the Lotus shaped structure (as may be seen in the photograph) whose foundation stone was Laid by Bhagawan on November 3. 1967. The entire structure was completed in 108 days. Shri lndulal Shah played a pivotal role in this entire exercise. The structure is named as "Sathya Deep" and houses Swami's Living quarters, apart from a spacious Bhajan Hall, in the ground floor. A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 17 Anand Kutir - As may be seen from the photograph, this building has an imposing fa<;ade and it mainly houses the Dining Hall where Swami used to partake food alongwith a few chosen devotees. Dining Hall can accommodate around 30 people along with Swami. Sarva Dharma Stupa - The majestic Stupa was constructed in 1975-The Golden Jubilee Year of the Advent of Swamy. This Stupa was inaugurated 1 on 12 h May 1975, i.e. on Dharmakshetra Day. It is a matter of interest to note that Later during the same year, the Sarva Dharma Stupa at Prashanthi Nilayam was inaugurated by Bhagawan on His Birthday- 23'd November 1975. It's one of the prominent Landmarks in Sai Architecture. 18 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA Nandanavan I Shri Krishna Garden- The Lawns around Sathya Deep are known as Nandanavan. In 2007, the l Dashavatars - The main entrance to Sathya Deep, is flanked by idols of Dashavatars, viz. the 10 incarnations of Lord Vishnu. They also incidentally represent the evolution of Creation. The Dashavatars are - Matsya (Fish), A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 19 Kurma (Tortoise), Varaha (boar), Narasimha (half man & half Lion), Vamana (Dwarf known colloquially as 'Batu'), Parashurama, Sri Rama, Sri Krishna, Buddha & Kalki. The first four Avatars- Matsya, Kurma, Varaha & Narasimha were in Satya Yuga; while Vamana, Parashurama, Rama Avatars were in Treta Yuga; Sri Krishna Avatar in Dwapar Yuga and Buddha & Kalki Avatars in Kali Yuga. The Avatar Kalki, as per the Legend (and as per Swamy), constitutes 3 Avatars viz. Shirdi Sai, Sathya Sai & Prem Sai. Devotees may have the darshan of these Dashavatars not only to see but also to read the cardinal message depicted therein which they proclaimed to the world at Large, in different Yugas, as per the needs of that Yuga. Down the hill Pragnya Deep- Was constructed as a part of the School complex and meant to showcase exhibits relating to Bal Vikas. At present Pragnya Deep is used as a meeting place for the School, Trust and Organisational matters. 20 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA Shanti Deep- This houses the main Bhajan Hall which is a beehive of activity all through the year. Operationally, every month in a year is allotted to one Samithi in Mumbai. The Samithi concerned is mainly responsible for conducting Bhajans as also celebrating any festival which may fall during that month. As has been already stated in line with Bhagawan's teachings, festivals of all religions are celebrated with equal devotion and fervour. It may not be out of place to mention that perhaps, Dharmakshetra, established by Bhagawan Baba could be the only unique centre anywhere in Mumbai, which celebrates with equal fervour festivals of all religions, faiths, castes and creed, without any discrimination, whatsoever. Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Mandir - This is a two-storey building was inaugurated by Swamy on 25th April 1971. It houses both primary and secondary modules and has, at present a total of around 1200 students. The school primarily caters to the wards of the not-sa-well-to -do inhabitants around Dharmakshetra. A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 21 I I Wellness Centre- The Wellness Centre as seen in the picture happens to be the latest addition to the existing structures in Dharmakshetra. It is an extension to the school building (Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Mandir). In fact. it is the last major project approved by Bhagawan physically. It has commenced its operations from the later part of 2015 and is dedicated to all-round wellness of a person- Body, Mind & Soul. Going forward, the Wellness Centre would play a pivotal role in the transformation of Dharmakshetra as an international spiritual centre. Jalan Mandap - Jalan Mandap is the large open space available in front of the dais, which is a part of the Shanti Deep complex. An imposing Sun God sculpture greets the visitors as soon as they enter Dharmakshetra. Jalan Mandap was used as the main Darshan arena for Bhagawan whenever He was in Mumbai. At present. Jalan Mandap is used for hosting all major functions where the number of devotees participating is on the higher side. It also serves as a play ground for the school children, besides being a parking area for vehicles. 22 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA Medical Centre- Medical Centre was inaugurated in March 1999 by Swamy Himself. The God of Health- Dhanvantari at the entrance of Medical Centre (in the picture alongside) greets one and all, while entering the Medical Centre. The Medical Centre offers free treatment to every one irrespective of caste, creed, religion, etc. It has an OPD, Pathological Lab., Radiology, Allopathic, Homoeopathy, Vibronics, Ayurvedic, Dental, Gynaecology, Orthopaedic, PhysioTherapy and Eye Care units. lt. on an average, treats 36,000 patients per annum. It occupies a central place for medicare activities in Dharmakshetra. A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 23 Medical activities also include a major mobile medical van movement. At present, the mobile medical project, which is run by Sri Sathya Sai Books & Publications Trust has 54 mobile medical vans. These vans fan out to various parts of Mumbai and surrounding areas, especially where the poor, vulnerable and the needy population resides and offer medical help, absolutely free of cost, on a continuous basis at their doorstep, throughout the year. 24 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA HowtojoinasaMember /Volunteer?: Any person who is a spiritual aspirant has faith in the teachings of Bhagawan Baba and who signs a declaration that he is willing to abide by the Nine-point Code of Conduct (given in Section XI below) and the rules of the Organisation in force will be treated as a member. Such members who participate in the activities of the Organisation are known as "Volunteers". II. Nostalgia "Every institution is the lengthened shadow of an individual': as perceptively observed by Late Pt. Jawaharlal Nehruji. In the case of Dharmakshetra, as also other institutions set up by Swamy- be it Prashanthi Nilayam, Satyam in Dharmakshetra, Shivam in Hyderabad, Sundaram in Chennai, Sai Ramesh in l Dharmakshetra happens to be a hallowed institution in this context. Bhagawan Himself has laid the foundation stones of Sathya Deep - living quarters of Bhagawan in Dharmakshetra. Shanti Deep -the Bhajan Mandir. School Complex and the Medical Centre which are depicted in photographs in this Handbook. Every construction is an eloquent testimony of Swamy's miracles. Sathya Deep, for instance, was constructed in a record 108 days. The School block likewise was built in a record time. Shanti Deep which is the Bhajan Mandir of today used to be an open hall with Atma Ramayan. depicted on its ceiling, in the initial stages. Dharmakshetra also has a pride of place in Swamy's Avataric mission. Sri Sathya Sai Seva Dal. Sri Sathya Sai Balvikas as also Sri Sathya Sai Mahila Vibhagwere started from Bombay, as stated in Section I earlier. Some of the individuals who played a prominent role over the years were Shri lndulalShah, Nothani, Chaturbhuj Chabria, Smt. Kankuben, etc. A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 25 Ill. Dharmakshetra -Spiritual message behind the architecture As one enters the gate, one becomes aware that good health is the first step to spirituality. The Sri Sathya Sai Medical Centre on the Left near the gate with the statue of Dhanvantri - God of health. at its entrance is a symbol of this awareness. Further up the road, one comes face to face with the huge mural of the Sun God astride the chariot pulled by seven horses. The seven horses are representative of the seven sins and Sun God's complete control thereon; besides the seven Chakras in human body (Spiritual Centres in the subtle body or Sukshma Sareera}, the blossoming of which results in the l The complex also houses Gyan Deep in which regular Organizational meetings and training courses are held. With peace in one's heart and understanding of Sri Sathya Sai Educare in the head, we proceed to the sanctum sanctorum of Dharmakshetra- Sathya Deep. Truth is only one and the Sarva Dharma Aikya Stupa. which stands adjacent proclaims this truth. The Lotus shaped structure of Satya Deep beckons man to embark upon sacred action and be Like a Lotus which blossoms and blooms in the unclean water of the pond but is still untouched by the dirt around. The pond surrounding Sathya Deep symbolizes the ocean of Samsara. The eighteen steps (2 flights of 9 steps each) for crossing over the pond to Sathya Deep symbolizes the Nava Vidha Bhakti with which one can cross this 26 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA ocean ofSamsara in order to enter the abode of the Lord. On the gate of Sathya Deep, we see the symbols of different religions signifying the universality of Baba's message that all religions teach the same ultimate truth. Inside Sathya Deep, there are 5 murals on the left side representing the aspects of Creation and the means of Creation- Prithvi (Earth), Aap (Water), Tejas (Fire), Vayu (Air) and Akasa (Sky). These are the basic constituents of creation. It is principally through the media of these five elements that God manifests Himself as this Universe and Creation. The panels on the right side portray the eternal "Value of Life" which one has to necessarily cultivate in order to be able to attain the divine state of perfection and gain liberation. These values which are pathways to perfection, are-Sathya, Dharma, Shanti, Prema and Ahimsa. The Meditation Center in Sathya Deep is the final destination to experience this Unity. Unity is Divinity. As we descend the hillock, carrying Divine vibrations within our heart, we are prepared to re-enter the social milieu. ------.·~~==~>~e.•------ A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 27 IV. Trustees: Names & Profiles At present. there are 4 Trustees in the Trust. whose brief details are given below: Dr. Keki Mistry Is a Trustee, appointed by Bhagawan Himself. He was the first Convenor of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Dal. He is an Orthodontist by profession, who is very popular with his students even two decades after his retirement. He is also the founding member of Orthodontic Dr. Keki Mistry Society of India and associated with several Trustee international bodies belonging to his profession. He Sri Sathya Sai Trust, and his family have been in Swamy's fold for more Maharashtra than five decades. Shri P. Vijaya Bhaskar Is a former central banker, who retired recently as Executive Director of Reserve Bank of India after more than three decades of service. He is a Sai student belonging to one of the first batches of Swamy's College in Brindavan. He and his family Shri P. Vijaya Bhaskar have been fortunate to be in Swamy's fold for nearly Trustee five decades. After retirement. he settled in Mumbai Sri Sathya Sai Central to be in service ofSwamy. Trust. Prashanthi Nilayam Et Convenor & Trustee Sri Sathya Sai Trust. Maharashtra 28 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA Shri Nimish Pandya Is an Advocate by profession who practices in the Bombay High Court. He and his wife Smt. Kamala Pandya are well known in the Sai family not only in India but the world over; due to their long and active participation in various activities of Sri Sathya Sai Shri Nimish Pandya Seva Organisation. Apart from being a Trustee in Sri Trustee Sathya Sai Trust, Maharashtra. he is at present Sri Sathya Sai Trust, serving as the All India President of Sri Sathya Sai Maharashtra Et Seva Organisation. ALL India President Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation Shri Shivajirao ladhav Shri Shivajirao Jadhav has been a very ardent devotee of Bhagawan Baba for a very long time. He and his family have been equally committed to the Swamy's Mission. Bhagawan showered the entire family with immense love when they constructed a Shri Shivajirao ladhav temple in Latur in Maharashtra and thereafter at Trustee Hadshi. His love for Bhagawan had drawn Swamy to Sri Sathya Sai Trust, spend a very substantial amount of time in 2009 at Maharashtra Pandurang l A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 29 V. Council of Management- Members At present. there are 11 members in the Council of Management of the Trust. They are: (1) Shri Ramesh Sawant (7) Shri Dhimant Mehta (2) Shri T.V. C. Nair (8) Shri Venkatesh lyer (3) Shri K. B. Santhanam * (9) Shri Noshir Bahadurjee (4) Shri Anoop Saxena (10) Shri Dr. Ajinkya Patil (5) Shri Ramesh Panchmatia (11) Shri H. U. Kamdar (6) Shri Mohan Jayakar *Shri K.B.Santhanam is also the Public Relation Officer of Dharmakshetra and Secretary to the Trust(Contact No.: +9198672 62734) VI. Sai Prem-ManagingCommittee There are 11 members in the Managing Committee of Sai Prem. They are: (1) TVC Nair- Nominee of SST, Maharashtra (2) Maheshwar Narayanan- Joint Co-ordinator (3) Venkat Sandhi- Joint Co-ordinator (4) R.C.Menon (5) P.S.Haral (6) R.M.Rao (7) Rakesh Kad (8) Ramani- District President of Navi Mumbai. (Ex-Officio) (9) Sridhar (10) Jagdish Babu (11) Babu lyer VII. Properties under Sri Sathya Sai Trust, Maharashtra There are two properties in Mumbai under the sole and exclusive management of Sri Sa thya Sai Trust. Maharashtra, viz.,- (A) Dharmakshetra: Mahakali Caves Road, Andheri (E), Mumbai. 400093 (B) Sai Prem: Plot 13/A. Balaji Mandir Marg. Sector lOA, Vashi, Navi Mumbai. 400705 VIII. Activities : The activities in Dharmakshetra and Sai Prem, as also in any Sathya Sai Organisation, can be conveniently placed under 4 heads, viz., Educare, Medicare, Sociocare and Spiritual activities. 30 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA (I) Dharmakshetra- (A) Educare related activities-"Love that inspires II • Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Mandir • Special activities - Coaching in drawing, music - harmonium & tabla, Crafts, Classes in Ramayana & Mahabharata and extra Coaching Classes for 9th & 10th standards. • Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vahini (B) Medicare related activities-" Love that heals II • Medical Centre in Dharmakshetra • Mobile Medical Van Project (Run by a sister Trust viz., Sri Sathya Sai Books & Publications Trust) (C) Sociocare related activities-"Love that transforms" • Narayan Seva on Sundays and on special occasions • Ladies Tailoring Classes • Wellness Centre (D) Spiritualactivities- Dharmakshetra is primarily a spiritual centre. A typical day's daily schedule related to spiritual activities is as follows: Morning • 5.15 - Suprabhatam • 6.30 -7.00- Early morning Bhajan and Aarati • 6.50 - 7.05 - Sarva Dharma Prayers - Prayers of the 5 major religions depicted in the Sarva Dharma symbol as also the Sarva Dharma Stupa viz., Hinduism, Buddhism, Zorastrianism, Islam & Christianity; are played at Sathya Deep, up the hill; reminding one & all, every day without exception the Unity of All Religions as also the "Fatherhood of God & Brotherhood of man." • 7.10-7.40- Veda Chanting is done while doing 5 pradakshinas (perambulations) of Sathya Deep i.e. the lotus shaped living quarters of Bhagawan up the hill. A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 31 Evening • 6.00-7.00- Bhajan and Mangal aarati • StudyCircles-Mahila &Combined -Study Circle happens every month in Shanthi Deep, to discuss a given topic. Study Circle is not just reading books. Study Circle means taking a topic and each person discussing what is the meaning of the topic to them, like a round table conference. Each person gives his point of view and finally values are derived therefrom. If there is just reading, there is doubt. However, with each one joining with their views, doubts will be cleared. The topic is viewed by the Study Circle in different facets. It is like a diamond with the different facets, but there is one facet that is flat, the top facet and from this everything ofthattopic can be viewed. To discover the top facet is the task of the Study Circle. (A) SpecialActivities- • Nagarsankeertan - on Thursdays and Sundays between 5.15 A.M. & 6.00 A.M. • Samarpan programme - Once every month on 3'd Sunday between 4.14 pm to 7.15 pm wherein experiences with Swamy and the lessons learnt at His Feet are shared by select devotees. 1 • Rudrabhishekam - once a month, usually on the 3'd or 4 h Saturday/Sunday. Rudrabhishekam is conducted at Sathya Deep between 2.30 P.M.- 5.30 P.M. The Rudram is chanted 11 times. What's meant by Educare, Medicare and Sociocare? Education, Medical practice, social services offered with pure and selfless love, as epitomized by Me become Educare, Medicare and Sociocare respectively. - Bhagawan Baba 32 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA (II) Sai Prem- Sai Prem is a visible extension of Dharmakshetra in Navi Mumbai. It was inaugurated by Bhagawan on 13th May 1995. Sai Prem anniversary, as such, falls one day later to that of Dharmakshetra Day i.e. on 12th May, every year The various activities conducted at Sai Prem under the Educare, Medicare, Sociocare Et Spiritual Wings are as given below: (1) Educare related activities -"Love that inspires .. Coaching Classes for students from 8th to 12th Standard - Details are given below: Coaching classes are conducted for students from Standard 8thto 12th. For students of 11th and 12th, coaching classes are conducted for both Science and Commerce streams. As of now, 56 staff members are doing honorary service benefitting around 7 5 students (boys Et girls) through this activity. Computer Classes are conducted on a regular basis for the benefit of elders as well as the students, who have gone through the Coaching Classes. At present there are 10 computers. Plans are afoot to further increase the activities in the coming days. (2) Medicare related activities- "Love that cures " Medical Centre - It has an OPD, Allopathy, Homoeopathy, Vibronics, Physio Therapy, Dental, Gynaecology, Accupuncture, ENT Et Eye Care units. On an average, 7000 patients avail the free medical service annually. Blood Donation Camps- Held once in a year. (3) Socio care related activities-"Love that transforms" Narayan seva- Every third Sunday of the month- 10 am to 2 pm A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 33 (4) Spiritual activities : Evening • 6.20- 7.30 - Bhajan Et Mangalaarati (on Thursdays Et Sundays) • 6.30- 7.00 - Bhajan Et Mangalaarati (on all other days) • 7.30- 8.30 - Study Circle (Saturdays) • 7.30- 8.30 - Bhajan Training Session (Mondays) • 11.00-12.00 - Balvikas Class Every Sunday • Vedam Training Classes • Havans and Poojas during Dussehra and other festivals (A) Special activities : • Samarpan Programs- Once in 3 months • Rudrabhishekam- Once in a month on 1'1 Sunday between 3.00 P.M.- 5.00 P.M. The Rudram is chanted 11 times. IX. Sponsorship I Donations As may be seen from the above, in Dharmakshetra as also in Sai Prem, there are activities related to Educare, Medicare and Sociocare which are undertaken on a continuous basis throughout the year, apart from the spiritual activities. Those who are interested in physically participating in such activities, may contact the volunteers at Trust Office in Dharmakshetra and Sai Prem, who will guide them to the concerned in-charges. Anyone interested in participating in the activities of Dharmakshetra and Sai Prem via donations/sponsoring any activity may do so, as per details given below: Paper based Instruments The cheques should be drawn in the name of " Sri Sathya Sai Trust, Maharashtra" and handed over physically or sent by post to the Trust Office in Dharmaskhetra and Sai Prem. 34 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA Electronically Anyone interested in remitting donation/sponsorship amount via Electronic means like NEFTI RTGS, etc. may remit the same to the Trust's CurrentA/c as per details given below" Dhamakshetra Payee's Name: Sri Sathya Sai Trust Maharashtra CurrentA/c No. 2115155000020149 (16 digits) Bank Name: l Sai Prem Payee's Name: Sri Sathya Sai Trust, Maharashtra SavingA/c No. 57000012015 Bank Name: State Bank of India Branch: Jl< Chambers, Sector 17, Vas hi. IFSC Code: SBIN0070665 The remitter should invariably mention his I her PAN No., address for communication and the purpose for which the amount should be used. It would be advisable to also send a separate email in respect of every donation to [email protected]. This would facilitate the Trust to promptly send the receipt along with Swamy's prasadam. It needs to be emphasized that sponsorships I donations are not a pre-requisite for participating actively in any of the activities in Dharmakshetra or Sai Prem Educare, Medicare, Sociocare or Spiritual activities. Sponsorships I donations are purely voluntary. The Trust seeks to promote Service with Selfless Love, above everything else X. How to reach Dharmakshetra & Sai Prem? (A) Dharmakshetra- From Airport Domestic - By Taxi - 6.7 l International - By Taxi - 5.4 l A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 35 Nearest Railway Station - Andheri ByRoad From Andheri Station (East): BEST Bus Route No. 333 Dharmakshetra Bus Stop-Sai Baba Mandir From Vikhroli BEST Bus Depot: BEST Bus Route No. 410 Bus Stop- Sai Baba Mandir (B) Sai Prem- Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport - By taxi- 26.4 kms. Nearest Railway Station - Vashi - By Auto- Probable fare Rs.30/ New Mumbai Metropolitan Transport (NMMT) Buses - From Vas hi Railway Station to Vas hi Bus Depot From there 5-10 minutes walking distance XI. Seva Personnel- (i) DHARMAKSHETRA- TRUST OFFICE Hall marks of a true Seva Dal Volunteer Volunteers in Trust Office - Absence of ego ft conceit; Shri N.C.R.S. Nambiar - Selfless service with compassionate heart; Shri Bhaskar Shetty - Compassion and willingness to sacrifice; Shri G. N. Bhat - Aware that quantity does not matter at Shri Kumar Aklekar all. only quality matters The intention with which one serves is of paramount importance; - Derives unsurpassed ananda (bliss), as a result of such selfless service - Sri Sathya Sai Baba 36 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA Trust Accounts Office Personnel- Shri C. H. Ramnath Shri. Dilip Bharad Other volunteers Shri 1<. G. Bhosle Smt. Mamta Singh Shri Anup Singh Smt. Mangala Patil EDUCARE One representative of Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vahini from Prashanthi Nilayam is present in the School for assisting teachers in imparting value education. MEDICARE Super Speciality Unit BRANCH DOCTORS Monday Diabetes Dr. Anil Bhave Orthopaedic Dr. V. G. Telang Gynaecology Dr. Nanawati Wednesday Physic Therapy Dr. Jyoti B Gynaecology Dr. Janaki R Saturday Mother ft Child Care Dr. Janaki R Dr. Jyoti B. Gynaecology Dr. Tanaz Bhat Physic therapy Dr. Pradhan Vibronics Dr. Deepa Hoskote A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 37 Volunteers Department Smt. Rajni lyer Mother Et Child Care Smt. Padma Mukund Diabetes Shri Moorthy Physiotherapy Smt. Bharathi Moorthy -do- Smt. Radhika Gawade Orthopaedic Smt. Neeta Chaphekar -do- Smt. Shyamala X-Ray Smt. Pushpa Raheja -do- Smt. Prema Poojary Gynaecology Shri Rajeev Gupta Vibronics Shri Tulsidas Shri l Eye Care Unit DOCTORS &SUPPORTING STAFF Dr. Janaki R.,ln-Charge Dr. Nandan Shetye, Surgeon Dr.Janak Shah, Surgeon Dr. Swara Palekar, Surgeon Dr. (Mrs.) Preeti Shah, Surgeon Dr. Aruna Ubhaykar, Anaesthetist Dr. (Ms) Zarna Patel, Anaesthetist Dr. Sangeeta Raut Surgeon Dr.(Mrs.) Suva rna l Staff in Eye Care Unit Smt. Meena Smt. Chhaya Smt. Namita Smt. Bharati Smt. Selvi Smt. Vandanaamita Smt. Sukhada 38 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA Volunteers in Eye Care Unit Shri S. 1<. Prasad Ms. Velina Verodia Smt. Revathy Shenoy Smt. S. N. Sanger Smt. Bepsy lata Smt. Amba Bhagawathi Smt. Geeta Shankar Smt. Manjula l Doctors in OPD Monday Wednesday Saturday Dr. Snehalata Rao Dr. 1<. N. Gandhi Dr. Shinde Dr. Prachi Dave Dr. Laghate Dr. Satish Salian Dr. N. G. Bihani Dr. Milind Patil Dr. Devesh Desai Dr. Guddi Makhija Dr. Prashant Dr. l A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 39 OPD Volunteers 5mt. Neelakshi Gandhi 5mt. Dhuru Ms. Rumana 5mt. Madhura C 5hri Mohan Bharwani 5mt. Nalini K 5mt. Rekha 5hetty 5hri Dantala 5mt. Meena Harite 5mt. Kirti 5hri G. 5. Patel Ms. 5ai 5angeet 5mt.Abida 5hri D. 5. 5achdev 5mt. 5andhya 5mt. Pradipa 5hri Mohan Desai 5mt. 5ai Lakshmi 5mt.5neha 5hri Pradip Desai 5mt. Reshma V 5mt. 5upriya 5hri 5atish 5mt. 5harada Desai 5mt. Vijaya Kannan Devidas Amin 5mt. Bhadra Desai 5mt. 5hobha Nagpal 5mt. Vijayalakshmi 5mt. 5unita Kamath Ms. Pawan 5mt. Rohini Raina 5mt. Vaidehi 5mt. 5udha G 5mt. Padmavathi 5mt. 5umati 5alian 5mt. lnakshi SOCIOCARE Volunteers doing garden duty 5hri l Rangoli 5mt. Prema 5ubramanyam 5mt. Vatsala Raghavan 5mt. 5udha Ganeshan 40 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA House Keeping Group (Mahila) Smt. Nagaratna Shetty Smt. Lakshmi V. Smt. Vijaya Shetty Smt. Surekha Salian Smt. Seetha G. Smt. Seeta Smt. Nalinakshi Shetty Smt. Seema Smt. Rameshwari Smt. Usha Nakoda Smt. Parvathi Smt. Dhanusha Smt. Sudha Sharma Smt. Indira Mami Smt. Prabha Smt. Sneha Motwani Smt. Geeta R. Smt. Sushila Smt. Hema Pandit Smt. Alka Artist Smt. Sumathi Smt. Sanjana Nichani Smt. Bharati l House Keeping Group (Male) from l Shri l A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 41 Shri Rajendra S. Bhagat Shri Mahesh B. Bhoir Shri Ramesh Garudkar Shri Naresh G. Patil Shri Mahesh Y. M. Shri Kalpesh Kapsalkar Shri Maruti Katkam Shri Chandrakant L. Bhoir Shri Shankar Puthran Shri Laxman Kadam Shri Jagdish Baraf Shri Nitesh Patil Shri Santosh Patil Shri Gajanan Patil Shri Ganesh Patil Shri Kiran M. Patil Shri Manish Patil Shri Suresh M. Patil Narayan Seva Volunteers Shri 1<. B. Santhanam Shri Krishna Kumar Krishnan Shri Deepak Darira Shri Dhananjay Maitri Shri Balu Yara Shri Rohit Bangera Shri Ganesh Shetty Shri Banesh Agsur Shri Ramesh Maitri Shri Sai Prem Vate Shri Ravi Sutan Shri SarthakAklekar Shri Sai Krishana Yara Shri Ravi Maitry Shri Akash Gunjnood Shri Sai Kumar Shri Shiv Kumar C. ShriAnand Shri KunalNagpal Shri Vinayak Shri Narsimha Shri Nitin Yellappa Shri Bhavesh Margasi Shri Vishwanath Shri Hitesh As rani Shri Jagdish Shetty Shri Anjaliappa Yellappa Roy Shri Pawan Kumar Shri Parmeswar Shetty Mahila Volunteers Smt. Vijaya Shetty Smt. Sneha Darira Smt. Vatsala Raghavan Smt. Renuka Smt. Bharathi Nayak Smt. Subhashini Smt. Vasanthi Shetty Smt. Hema Sanil Smt. Pushpa Goenka Smt. Sunanda Poojari Smt. Maheshwari Smt. Mythili 42 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA Tailoring Smt. Banatwala Smt. Saroja Bhuchala Smt. Nirmala N Varak Smt. Prajakta Smt. Tanveer Smt. Venkateswari P Survase SPIRITUAL Bhajan Singers Shri V.l<. Nayampalli Smt. Sudha Savur Shri Sam pathS. Smt.Ameeta Shirali Shri B. G. Pitre Smt. Prema lyer Shri Chaitanya Nayampalli Smt. Vijaya l " Volunteers should be full of love with sympathy & empathy. They should not hurt anyone by thought, word or deed and thereafter feel sad & remorseful. In other words, they should NOT be 'Wall' & 'Tears'" but 'Volunteers' in the true sense. - Sri Sathya Sai Baba A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 43 Shri l Volunteers in Bhajan Mandir Shri Shyam Smt. Gulabi Suvarna Shri Vasu Bangera Smt. Vasanthi Shetty Smt. Vasanthi Smt. Sumathi Smt. Girija Yadav Participants of Combined Study Circle conducted by Shri Sanjeev Rao Shri Mitra Smt. Vijaya Shetty Shri l 44 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA Participants of Mahila Study Circle conducted by Smt. Seema Ovlekar Smt. Vijaya Shetty Smt. Mallamma Smt. Bharathi Nayak Smt. Shubhangi Jamsandekar Smt. Vatsala Raghavan Smt. Suman Nayampalli Smt. Prema Subramaniam Smt. Keshavi Bolar Smt. Manisha Amre Smt. Sugandhi Shetty Smt. Hem a Sa nil Smt. Nagaveni Shetty Smt. Jalaja Kotian Smt. Smitha Bailoor Smt. Madhura Chapnekar Smt. Sheela Khandelwal Smt. Sunanda Poojary Smt. Karuna Sa hay Smt. Kastoori Kadam Smt. Vasanthi Shetty Volunteers- Vedam & Rudrabhishekam Shri P V Bhaskar Shri 1<. B. Santhanam Shri G. N. Bhat Shri Shiva Shri Shyam Shri Rajkumar Shri Bhaskar Shetty Shri Jagadish Shri T. S. Rao Shri Nayampalli Shri Vinod Narayan Shri Ahyam ------.ee~=E<>~~•------ A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 45 (ii) SAl PREM Volunteers in Trust Office: Shri D. N. Moorthy Shri Udayavar Shri R. M. Rao Shri Rajendra Gupte Shri P. S. Haral EDUCARE Coaching Classes Co-ordinator: Smt. Priya Rajwade Coaching Classes Volunteers 8th std. 9th std. 10th std. Rekha Roopa Shobha Shah Aishwarya Rupali Prema Raji Jay anti Shanta Poornima Deep a Harish Aparna Umavati Lata Ruby Sangeeta Smith a Aparna Suneeta Rashi Padmaja Meenakshi Tejaswi Sitaraman Renu Shim pi Geeta Swati Rashmi Ujwala Jayashri Hemali Pranavi Lalita Abhishek Gunashri Venus Ashish Sushil Singh 11th Commerce 11th Science 12th Science 12th Commerce Dharmendra Iqbal Jyoti Rajesh Rana Jay anti Ramnath Jayshree Ankur Sudha Ravi Jayashree Chavan Chhavi l 46 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA MEDICARE BRANCH DOCTORS Sunday Homoeopathy Dr. Janaki Subramaniam Monday Gynaecology Dr. Usha Agarwal Surgeon Dr. N. S. Nagarajan Dental Dr. S Rankhambe General Physician Dr. Wattal Tuesday Gynaecology Dr. Leela l Wednesday Acupuncture Mrs. Viruben Vyas General Physician Dr. Asha Damodaran Dental Dr. S. Rankhambe Vibronics Shri Manish Thursday Skin Specialist Dr. Sandhya Pawar PhysioTherapy Dr. Radhika A.K. Friday Homoeopathy Dr. R. R. Pathare General Physician Dr. Asha Damodaran Dental Dr. S. Rankhambe Saturday Et Diabetologist Dr. Vinod Methil Tuesday Ayurveda Dr. Prashant Prabhakar Dr. Sushant N Dr. Vinod G Dr. Sulochana Yewale Dr. Meena L Dr. Ashwini S Volunteers Smt. Chitra S Smt. Pramila l A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 47 Volunteers Smt. Vasantha R Smt. Gopi Thakur Smt. R Vanaja Smt. Shobha Shri Ashok 5 Shri Malaviyya Shri Udayavar Shri Shyam Dhuri Shri Nagpal SOCIOCARE Narayan Seva Volunteers Shri Rakesh l SPIRITUAL Volunteers Bhajan Shri Sameer l 48 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA Volunteers Study Circle Shri Haral Shri CSN Moorthy Shri Kshirsagar Shri Krishnan lyer Volunteers- Vedam & Rudrabhishekam Shri Mahesh Narayanan Smt. Shanti K Shri Shankar Smt. Gupta Shri Murali Smt. Usha M Shri Sail A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 49 XII. Nine-Point Code of Conduct for Devotees As per Swamy's directions, every member should undertake sadhana (spiritual discipline) as an integral part of daily Life and abide by the following 9 point Code of Conduct: 1. Daily meditation and prayer. 2. Devotional singing I prayer with family members once per week. 3. Participation in Sai Spiritual Education by children of the family. 4. Participation in community service and other programmes of the Organisation. 5. Regular attendance at devotional meetings conducted by the Organisation. 6. Regular study of Sathya Sai Baba Literature. 7. Use of soft, Loving speech with everyone. 8. Avoidance of talking ill of others, especially in their absence. 9. Practice of the principle of "ceiling on desires", consciously and continuously striving to eliminate the tendency to waste time, money, food and energy and utilizing any savings thereby generated for the service of mankind. XIII. Fascinating facts about Dharmakshetra The more important of the fascinating, but Little known facts about Dharmakshetra are: Related to Spirituality: - Dharmakshetra is a very unique premises wherein within the precincts of "Devalaya" the four "Alayaas" - "Vidyalaya", "Aushadhalaya", "Granthalaya" and "Bhojanalaya" co-exist. - Bombay Walking Group- Nagarbhajan I Nagar Sankeertan: At the time of inauguration of Dharmakshetra in 1968, our beloved Swamy in His interaction with the devotees mentioned that one Nagarbhajan is so A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA equal to attending one hundred bhajans. Taking cue therefrom, on the first Sunday of June 1968, the first Nagarbhajan was started by Mr. Maiya, Mr. Moorthy and Mr. Prabhakar and was supported by many other Local members. The starting point was Andheri Ganesh temple at 5.30 a.m. to Dharmakshetra, which is approximately 5 kms. This is continuing till date with certain changes. *Significance of the number 108-ASHTOTH RAM 108 Earth diameters (Yahoo answers) is the distance from the earth to the moon. The Sun's diameter is 108 times that of the earth and the diameter of the earth is 108 times that ofthemoon. *The significance of the number 108 is given in detail in the Annex. The construction of Sathya Deep (Lotus shaped structure) on top of the Hill which has been the physical Living quarters of Bhagawan in Mumbai was completed in 108 days. It has 18 pillars, 16 petals and 1008 openings in ground floor. The 16 petals represent the 16 kalas of the Avatar while the number of pillars and openings on the ground floor symbolize the numeral 9 which is the Brahma Sankhya. Swamy while selecting the Land for Dharmakshetra stated that the place has been sanctified in Ram Avatar when Sri Ram spent some time here during his Vanavas along with Sita and Lakshmana in Thretha Yuga. (Swamy had said that the Land on which Dharmakshetra Atauds is "Rama Paada Sparshita Punya Bhoomi" "Ul'l"-qrc::~~Wl"" ). Swamy had proclaimed many a times during his Avatarhood that Dharmakshetra will become a Tirtha Kshetra (pilgrimage centre) as holy and pristine as Badrinath and Kedarnath. In Line with Swamy's philosophy that all religions are one in showing the path to the Supreme Being, who is only One, Dharmakshetra as a centre welcomes people from all faiths and religions without any discrimination, whatsoever. The fact that festivals of all religions are celebrated throughout the year with A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 51 equal devotion and fervour, stands as a testimony to this universality of thought. Rituals Like offering of coconuts I flowers I agarbathis, etc. are consequently down played. It's more of a spiritual workshop, where the devout congregate to whet their spiritual hunger and have their spiritual sadhana. Related to Construction : The 18 steps (two flights of 9 steps each) to Sathya Deep - the sanctum sanctorum represents the Nava Vidha Bhakthi - viz. Shravana (Hearing); l The architecture of the entire premises of Dharmakshetra symbolizes spirituality as detailed at Section Ill above. Related to Transport & Communication: The bus route from Andheri Station to reach Dharmakshetra - BEST Bus No. 333 (aggregating to 9 -the Brahma Sankhya) BEST Bus Stop on Mahakali Caves Road near Dharmakshetra is known as Sai Baba Mandir Stop While travelling from Chakala, one crosses Sri Sathya Sai Chowk near Ginger Hotel to reach Dharmakshetra The fact that numeral 9 being Brahma Sankhya finds its place in various aspects of Dharmakshetra is indeed, no simple matter of coincidence. In fact during Swamy's Avatarhood, the numeral 9 had tremendous significance. For instance, Swamy's weight was 108 Lbs consistently; his height was 5' 4"; year of 52 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA birth 1926, and all cars used by Swamy had numeral9 as single digit, as thier registration number. XII A note of Prayer to Bhagawan A prayer for fulfillment to Bhagawan- Having bestowed such good fortune on Mumbai, Bhagawan- indeed, on all of us to have such a monument of the Sathya Sai saga and thereby be recipients of Your abundant, Ever Flowing Love E:t Blessings, we beseech you to grant us the wisdom to unite together and endeavour to transform DHARMAI Give us all, the wisdom and strength to ponder lovingly- "Is there any greater or higher Sadhana for all of us than to endeavour to fulfil Your Wish and Command?" The answer to this question should guide and propel all our actions in relation to Dharmakshetra from now on!!! la1 Sa1 Ram A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST. MAHARASHTRA 53 Annex * The Significance of the number 108 "108" is called as Brahma Sankhya. Its spiritual significance is explained as follows: 9 as a multiplicant: Any number multiplied by 9 will result in again 9 as the single digit. For instance, 9*3=27- single digit 9. Likewise, multiplication with 9 can be verified by using any other number. The spiritual significance is that 9 is representative of Atma. It can multiply any number of times, but it continues to remain asAtma. 9 as an additive: Any number added to 9 will result in that number as a single digit. For instance, 9+2=11-single digit2. Likewise, any number can be added to 9 for verifying this unique feature. Spiritually, its significance is that 9 is representative of Atma. In whichever form the Atma enters- human, animal or any other species, it becomes that entity. The Indian Subcontinent rosary or set for counting has 108 beads. 108 has been a sacred number in the Indian Subcontinent for a very long time. This number is explained in many different ways. The ancient Indians were excellent mathematicians and 108 may be the product of a precise mathematical operation (e.g. 1 power 1 x 2 power 2 x 3 power 3 = 108) which was thoughtto have special numerological significance. Powers of 1, 2, and 3 in math: 1 to 1st power= 1; 2 to 2nd power= 4 (2x2); 3 to 3rd power= 27 (3x3x3). lx4x27 = 108 Sanskrit alphabet: There are 54 letters in the Sanskrit alphabet. Each has masculine and feminine, Shiva and Shakti. 54 times 2 is 108. Sri Yantra: On the Sri Yantra there are marmas where three lines intersect, and there are 54 such intersections. Each intersections has masculine and feminine, Shiva and Shakti qualities. 54 x 2 equals 108. Thus, there are 108 points that define the Sri Yantra as well as the human body. 9 times 12: Both of these numbers have been said to have spiritual significance in many traditions. 9 times 12 is 108.Also, 1 plus 8 equals 9. 54 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA Heart Chakra: The chakras are the intersections of energy Lines, and there are said to be a total of 108 energy Lines converging to form the heart chakra. One of them, sushumna Leads to the crown chakra, and is said to be the path to Self realization. Marmas: Marmas or marmastanas are Like energy intersections called chakras. There are said to be 108 marmas in the subtle body. Time: Some say there are 108 feelings, with 36 related to the past 36 related to the present and 36 related to the future. Astrology: There are 12 constellations, and 9 arc segments called amshas or chandrakalas. 9 times 12 equals 108. Chandra is moon, and kalas are the divisions within a whole. Planets and Houses: In astrology, there are 12 houses and 9 planets. 12 times 9 equals 108. Gopikas of Krishna: In the Krishna tradition, there were said to be 108 gopikas of Krishna. 1, 0, and 8: 1 stands for God or higher Truth, o stands for emptiness or completeness in spiritual practice, and 8 stands for infinity or eternity. Sun and Earth: The diameter of the sun is 108 times the diameter of the Earth. Numerical scale: The 1 of 108, and the 8 of 108, when added together equals 9, which is the Largest number of the numerical scale, i.e.1, 2, 3, 9 where 0 is not a number. Smaller divisions: The number 108 is divided, such as in half, third, quarter, or twelfth, so that some malas have 54, 36, 27, or 9 beads. ALL of them in single digit add up to 9. Islam: The number 108 is used in Islam to refer to God. Jain: In the Jain religion, 108 are the combined virtues of five categories of holy ones, including 12, 8, 36, 25, and 27 virtues respectively. A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA 55 Sikh: The Sikh tradition has a mala of 108 knots tied in a string of wool, rather than beads. Chinese: The Chinese Buddhists and Taoists use a 108 bead mala, which is called su-chu, and has three dividing beads, so the mala is divided into three parts of36 each. Stages of the soul: Said that Atman, the human soul goes through 108 stages on the journey. Meru: This is a larger bead, not part of the 108. It is not tied in the sequence of the other beads. It is the quiding bead, the one that marks the beginning and end of the mala. Dance: There are 108 forms of dance in the Indian tradition. Pythagorean: The nine is the limit of all numbers, all others exist and come from the same. i.e.: 0 to 9 is all one needs to make up an infinite amount of numbers. Upanishadas: There are 108 Upanishads as per the list contained in the Muktikopanishad. Holy places ofVaishnavas: There are 108 in all. Divyadeshes: Divine or Sacred Tirthas number 108 throughout India and Nepal. There are 108 sacred water taps in Muktinath- Nepal. Compiled by Shri P. Vijaya Bhaskar, Trustee, Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust Prashanthi Nilayam and Convenor & Trustee, Sri Sathya Sai Trust. Maharashtra. The secretarial support of Smt. Sumati Salian is gratefully acknowledged. ------.ee~=E<>~~•------ 56 A PUBLICATION OF SRI SATHYA SAl TRUST, MAHARASHTRA