With Bhagawan sitting onstage, the session continued until Bhagawan accepted Mangala Arathi at 1818 hrs. Leaving the dais after blessing the packed audience with His abhayahastha, Bhagawan spent sometime conversing and blessings some devotees including some students before retiring for the day at 1830 hrs., bringing curtains down on this blessed Tuesday. Prasadam was distributed to the entire assemblage.

Canada has come with a full strength of around 1200 and would be in Prasanthi for ten days. Kerala contingent of devotees started arriving ahead of Onam festivity; a group of 240 belonging to "Sai Neethi", a Forum of Lawyers has also joined the Onam contingent. Seven hundred 'pilgrims' including 300 patients who have been benefitted by the Medicare Mission of Bhagawan and subsequently rehabilitated under the "Sai Rehabilitation Programme" are expected for a "Hrudaya Sangamam" in the Divine presence on 18 Aug. This seven hundred includes 150 Muslims whose lives have been touched by the Divine Benevolence of Bhagawan!!! "Hrudaya Sanghamam", counseling and reunion programme, normally organised at various district centres in Kerala is scheduled in Prasanthi Nilayam this time at the special insistence of a group of Muslim beneficiaries from Malappuram and Kozhikode districts of Kerala, who were eager to meet the "source of inspiration" behind the free Medicare at the twin super speciality hospitals run by Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust.

|| Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu ||

Four of them got a packet each and the 'foursome' was blessed with Padanamaskar... Soon HE asked for an encore of "Samastha Lokaaha...". A brief conversation with one of the leading bhajan singers followed before Bhagawan moving off the dais at 1840 hrs.

Interacting with some seniors followed by a couple of students Bhagawan glided into the ladies' side at 1845 hrs. retiring to Yajur Mandiram.

With "Region 94" devotees from Arabian Gulf and the Middle East are set to retreat in a couple of days, another huge group, from Canada, is expected and the inflow has already begun with the arrival of small contingents. ...And adding to Prasanthi's festive glory comes the Kerala festival Onam, scheduled for 23rd August. Groups of devotees from "God's Own Country" are expected to arrive in the coming days. This evening, Sai Kulwant Hall had a packed audience enjoying the bliss of the "darshan cum bhajan" session.

|| Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu ||

Today, in the evening, emerging at 1635 hrs. to the chants of Vedam, Bhagawan drifted through the multitudes, pausing in between, blessing many including primary children, before completing the round to go for another half round encircling the ladies' end. Taking a detour and reaching the portico, Bhagawan glided past the lower portico to get into the bhajan hall at 1505 hrs. through the rear entrance.

As if continuing from where they had left on the previous evening, a closed door session ensued, wherein Bhagawan spent next ninety minutes with the 1996 batch of students and their immediate family members. Prof. G Venkataraman who addressed the group in the Divine presence spoke about the evolution of Parthi, between then and now, elaborating on the various service activities taken up by Bhagawan as a part of His Divine Mission. Professor's speech was followed by an Inspirational Divine Discourse wherein Bhagawan stressed highly on the importance of harmonious living in families. Citing various illustrious characters, namely the couple in the lores, Nala and Damayanthi, Bhagawan highlighted on the greater importance of living with understanding in families, especially between husband and wife. "Vote of Thanks", more appropriately, 'expression of Gratitude to Bhagawan' followed before winding up the long, 'illustrious' session between The Lord and His 'properties'.

...And outside, in the Sai Kulwant Hall, as "the wait' continued with a jam-packed assembly awaiting The Lord, the nature was wielding her magical spell with the rare combo of overcast sky with an advancing twilight with her dark tinge setting a perfect backdrop for The Lord to emerge as His students were to celebrate the glory of Mother India, celebrating 64th National Independence Day in in His immediate Divine presence. The backdrop has to be dark for Mother India to be shone forth...and, adding to the celebrating mood, heavens opened up, pouring her share of joy.

...And came the Lord!...emerging at 1845 hrs., Bhagawan glided through the lower portico to come onstage at 1850 hrs. and the stage was ready for the drama "Swarajya Gatha" by the senior post graduate students of SSSIHL.

Invoking blessings ensued before Bhagawan's Voice "Khanda Kandanthara..." rendered the air marking the beginning of the presentation. "Swarajya Gatha" was centred around the freedom struggle involving Bharat's first mass leader, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, lived during the period 1856-1920. Tilak's ideals to spread national unity and religious harmony through various religious festivals promoting "Swarajya", standing united against the British, set the backdrop for the presentation before the story advanced into Tilak's undying passion for Mother India and winning her freedom from the British. The man who proclaimed "Swarajya is my birthright and I shall have it" finally got arrested by the British who sent him to jail for a long six year imprisonment. His evolution in the jail, where he turned contemplative, getting deep into the 'Geeta Rahasya' and Karma Yoga, still madly possessed with his undying passion for his Mother India was illustrated with the help of Mahabharat scenes depicting Abhimanyu, who embraces the risk of getting into the Padmavyooha in the name of moral duty to win the battle.

Subsequent scenes depicted Tilak's state of depression, at not finding a sustained way forward to win his dream Swarajya, after he was freed form the jail, his meeting up with Sai Baba of Shirdi and Baba's precious words of advice to him. Mother India is in the safe hands of God assured the Lord of Shirdi advising Tilak to find his own swarajya first.

The presentation was packed with powerful dialogue delivery. At the time of his arrest by the British, he said: "Swarajya is the foundation and not anything raised to have a prosperous future; a foundation never comes down; may be an edifice that is raised on the foundation will come down, but another one will soon rise in its place and it is just a matter of time", retorted Tilak countering the British.

The one hour presentation ended with a melodious group song on the glory of Bharat, Mother India, to the tune of "Sundaram Bharatham Sumadhuram..." The presentation was interwoven with melodious and colorful dance and song sequences. An innovative idea, a revolving automated stage, done indigenously by the students from the hostel won special attention from Bhagawan.

Moving down the dais, Bhagawan posed for group photo session involving entire crew. Bhagawan chose to spend some time in the middle interacting with the group. The Abhimanyu cast won His special blessings as Bhagawan materialised a golden chain with a Ganesha pendant for the cast. Returning onto the stage, Bhagawan spent quite sometime interacting with various casts. Bhagawan was seemed to be amused with the two boys acted as Draupadi and Subhadra. Interacting with them, Bhagawan, upon presenting them safari pieces gave away an additional presentation, a saree each, to the delight and amusement of all. Entire drama crew got safari pieces as a token of His love and blessing. This Divine Interactive Session continued till 2020 hrs. until Bhagawan nodded for Mangala Arathi. Upon accepting Arathi, Bhagawan moved off the dais. Interacting with many enroute, Bahgawan glided into the ladies' side at 2025 hrs. retiring to Yajur Mandiram bringing curtains down on this glorious evening of 64th National Independence Day!

|| Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu ||

Emerging quite early at 1630 hrs. to the chants of Vedam, Bhagawan, upon completing a full round of darshan moved into the bhajan hall for a fifty minute closed door session with the old students and families. Before completing the round, Bhagawan spent ample time blessing flocks of Easwaramma English Medium children who were craning to have His attention with various4 greeting cards.
 

Inside the bhajan hall, cutting a special cake on the occasion, Bhagawan moved through the rows, blessing many. Half-an-hour into the session the group burst into a string of love-filled songs, evoking nostalgic memoirs of their student days in the hallowed portals. Bhagawan materialised a golden chain for one of the students interacting and blessing his immediate family members.

Winding up the fifty minute session Bhagawan emerged to come onstage at 1735 hrs. As per His Divine Command, the batch of 1996 along with 'their' relatives also moved out, moving into the front block to feast another round of close darshan.

 Earlier, in the morning, the group had the special privilege of leading the morning bhajans along with the Prasanthi bhajan group.

Bhajans that commenced at the scheduled hour continued till 1805 hrs. when Bhagawan indicated for Mangala Arathi. Upon accepting Arathi, moving off the dais, Bhagawan interacted with many on His way, before gliding into the ladies' side to retire to Yajur Mandiram, at 1815 hrs. RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat was seen seeking Divine Blessings as Bhagawan passed by.
 

Earlier, in the morning, Bhagawan had emerged at 1030 hrs. to go for a "Divine Safari" outside the Prasanthi gates, before returning to the Mandir to accept Mangala Arathi, retiring to Yajur Mandiram.

|| Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu ||

Coming onstage, as the Vedic incantations went on, Bhagawan blessed the organisers and some of the participants from the UAE who were set to stage a cultural presentation.

The programme titled, "Prema Tarangini", meaning Ocean of Love, was a loving offering by the Balvikas children from Gulf and Middle East Region, The UAE comprising eight centres, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

As Veda chanting ended at 1810 hrs. an official introduction on the programme followed afterwhich children took over the proceedings.
 

Starting with Sainatha Ashatakam, they went on singing another five hymns for the next 25 minutes before the seniors took over for the next half-an-hour singing melodious bhajans. At the end of the children programme Bhagawan blessed one little blossoming bud with Vibhuti Prasadam followed by another one with a materialised golden chain. Subsequently Bhagawan called the boy once again onstage presenting him an 'instant' photo print of the same.

At 1910 hrs. Bhagawan indicated for Mangala Arathi. Upon accepting Arathi, Bhagawan moved down the dais to pose for a and the bhajan troupe. 107 seven children from eight centres participated in the evening's presentation.

Moving off the dais at 1920 hrs. Bhagawan went into the interview room to spend next fifteen minutes in before emerging to retire at 1935 hrs.

This blessed evening in Prasanthi was made more beautiful by the surge of wave of love from the other end of Arabic Ocean. These tiny tots had a unique prayer unto Bhagawan, praying for the welfare of children all over the globe. These wave of prayers was sure to have reached The Lord!
 

|| Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu ||

Earlier, in the evening, emerging at 1730 hrs. to the chants of Vedam, Bhagawan went for a full round of darshan, pausing in between, before completing the round in fifteen minutes. Glancing at the Primary Children, Bhagawan moved further into the ladies' side for a full length before turning above to come onto the portico. Blessing some faculties from SSSIHL, Bhagawan moved on to come onstage at 1750 hrs. Before assuming His original seat onstage, Bhagawan chose to interact with some of the representatives from the UAE who were seated at the university block.

Proceedings for the evening began with the officials seeking Divine blessings for the commencement of the distribution programme. An emotional introductory speech by one of the regional representatives followed before Prof. Anil Kumar took over the proceedings. Speaking on the uniqueness of the service endeavours of Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, Prof. Anil Kumar explained the 'guidelines' for the beneficiaries. Implements, namely, solar lamps, sewing machines, tricycles, water filters and mixers were distributed to over 85 of beneficiaries with Bhagawan watching over the proceedings.
 

As the beneficiaries retreated with grateful thanks to the 'presiding deity' in physical, the stage was being set for a songs presentation by devotees from Turkey. The programme was entitled "Divine Songs From Turkey" . Starting with three Omkars followed by a Ganesha Bhajan, the troupe sang almost a dozen songs for the next fifty minutes before winding up with a melodious number with an infectious refrain "Sai Ram Baba..., Om Sai Ram".

It was time for Mangala Arathi. Upon accepting Arathi, Bhagawan asked for an encore of "Samastha Lokaaha...". A pause ensued and Bhagawan asked for clothes to be brought for presentation. The troupe of more than forty members was blessed with sarees and safari pieces, ladies and gents respectively. At 1920 hrs. after completing the distribution, Bhagawan asked for one more Mangala Arathi that was followed by the third "Samastha Lokaaha...." for the evening. Soon Bhagawan moved off, blessing some devotees enroute, retiring for the day at 1925 hrs. Prasadam was distributed to the entire assemblage.

|| Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu ||

As announced during the previous evening, the Youth from Delhi & NCR (National Capital Region) were to stage a dance drama titled 'Guru Kripa'. The presentation was based on the life of illustrious Sufi Saint, Bulleh Shah, lived during 17th-18th century, highlighting Guru's importance in one's life.

Bringing a modern day scene wherein a youth of the day with overpowering ego forgets social ethics and behavioural norms, the presentation takes the help of the illustrious life of the Sufi saint to enlighten the youth of the greater importance of Guru Bhakthi. His remorseful father narrates the story of the Saint in an attempt to bring his son back into the right track. Bulleh Shah, against much opposition from his family and society in general, stood by his devotion to his guru, Inayat Shah Quadri, a lower cast, declaring firmly that he would forgo his family and worldly life, but not his "Sai", who was his revered guru.

Still not convinced, the egotist finally learns his lesson when his discarded teacher pardoned him, despite all the insults meted out to him, saving his former student from the embarrassment of going behind the bars.

The fifty minute presentation was intertwined with melodious and meaningful songs in folk Punjabi language, the language used during the times of Bulleh Shah. The presentation ended with a group song, in typical sufi tongue, in praise of "Sai".
 

Upon the end of the presentation, Bhagawan called the fakir cast onstage and blessed him with a materialised golden chain. Subsequently Bhagawan moved down the stage for a group photo session. It was 1855 hrs. and as indicated by Bhagawan lead bhajan pair burst open with "Allaho Akbar.." A pause ensued as Bhagawan sat through and soon ."Sri Raghavam..." followed and the session continued from there...with an array of bhajans.... In the meantime an 'instant photo print of the materialisation came. The cast was called onstage once again and Bhagawan made over the same to the youth, a bonus blessing for the blessed youth.

After the drama presentation, 'His drama' was unfolding. Bhagawan asked for the backroom assistants also to come forward to join the drama cast in the front block...Soon He moved down the dais once again!...for yet another photo session!!

Returning onstage in five minutes Bhagawan sat through... still more to come?!?

Lord's compassion was filling and fulfilling...Bhagawan was seen giving instructions to the State President, Delhi & NCR...and soon the drama cast in small groups marched onto the stage for yet another "Momentous Moment" with The Divine!!!

These post programme sessions often turn out to be 'open class rooms'. Tales that tags the tails of such sessions are great eye openers for man to learn and imbibe.
 

It was 1930 hrs. and Bhagawan asked for Mangala Arathi. Upon accepting Arathi, Bhagawan sat for a while and before leaving the dais He blessed the concourse with Abhayahastha. Leaving off, enroute, Bhagawan profusely blessed Lakhwinder Wadali, the Sufi singer who mesmerised the audience with his scintillating sufi rendering on the previous evening. Interacting with the singer, Bhagawan gave him 'fistfuls' of Vibhuti prasadam, a sign of His all conquering Love!!! As He was gliding into the ladies' side, there came an 'instant' print of the group photo session...Presenting the same to the State President, Bhagawan moved off, retiring for the day, bringing curtains down on another eventful evening.
 

|| Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu ||

As Vedic chants continued, Mr. Jatinder Cheema, State President, Delhi & NCR, as per the command of Bhagawan presented a prelude to the programme introducing the singer to the august assembly. Profusely thanking Bhagawan for His nine days' North Indian sojourn in April, Mr. Cheema called the evening's presentation as an offering of gratitude for Bhagawan's greater benevolence that took Him to Delhi and Shimla. Introducing the singer, he made a mention of the singer's father, Padmashree Ustad Puran Chand Walia, who had the blessed opportunity to sing in Bhagawan's Divine presence 37 years ago, in Moga, Punjab.

Commencing the programme, the blessed singer, singing from the depth of his heart to the heights of exalted heavens, rendering high pitched numbers reverberating the packed 'amphitheatre' in Prasanthi, took the entire audience with his special 'twists and turns', typical of sufi style, complete with meaning, to the accompaniment of high beat music, resulting an electrifying musical evening.

The singing was so alluring that the verve in the air was catching up with the packed assembly tuning rapt attention onto the stage. Among the numbers included Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan's popular Sufi Qawwali, Dama Dam Mast Kalandhar...enjoyed by one and all.

An hour passed by when the singer was into his fifth number and at the end of the same Bhagawan moved off, asking the singer to continue. As he continued to make merry of the life opportunity bestowed upon, the twilight's shadow was soon catching up engulfing Prasanthi, and adding to this splendour arrived The Lord, in fifteen minutes, onstage at 1655 hrs. ...and the hall literally turned lit with His re-entry as the tempo was soon building up before the final whistle. The singer, by now into his seventh number was repeatedly singing "Aaja Mahi...Aaja Mahi.."; bringing a sudden twist pausing the song He addressed The Lord: "Sai jab chale gayethe tho hamara man nahi lag raha tha...tho hum aapke jaane ke baad ye sab kahne lagi..." Loye Loye Aaja Mahi, meaning, when Bhagawan moved off, he was feeling odd (in the absence) and was repeatedly invoking Him, calling out Aaja Mahi..Aaja Mahi)...The tune was melodious and mesmerising and the love of the devotee was expressive in these lines, in a most catching tune, enticing the audience...and the singer continued ending the electrifying musical extravaganza to a grand finale. It lasted for ninety long minutes.
 

Bhagawan called the singer unto Him to felicitate him by draping a shawl over him before blessing the whole troupe with safari pieces. It was 1910 hrs. and Bhagawan indicated for Mangala Arathi. Upon accepting Arathi, Bhagawan sat on and the session continued. The artiste on the Tabla who was vibrant with his 'hand-finger-tabla' combo won special acclaim as Bhagawan made a typical gesture indicating rhythmic beat of Tabla on his fingertips and as the artiste moved towards Bhagawan to receive his share of blessings, 'crowd' went into raptures in special appreciation.

Next to come was an emerald ring for the singer and subsequently Bhagawan asked the State President to announce about the next evening's programme. Delhi Youth would be staging a drama entitiled "Guru Krupa" as per the announcement made. Time clock ticked to 1922 hrs. and Bhagawan indicated for another Mangala Arathi. Upon accepting Arathi, after blessing the concourse with abhayahastha, Bhagawan sat for a while gesticulating the students and the youth to go and have food. They burst into 'silent' laughters enjoying every bit of His Love and concern! A short interaction with a bhajan singer ensued before Bhagawan went for the the 'final move' to retire to Yajur Mandiram at 1930 hrs.
 

|| Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu ||

Monday, Aug 9, 2010 -Sai News & Photo Updates: Today, in the evening that had no 'special' schedule, Bhagawan emerged at 1725 hrs. to come for a slow, 'detailed' round of darshan. Coming onto the portico, Bhagawan blessed Team Vidya Vahini before proceeding to come onstage, past 1745 hrs., from the right of Ganesha. Before assuming His original seat, Bhagawan paused for a while facing the university block, casting His Divine benedictory glance.

With no special programme scheduled for the evening it was 'soulful' bhajans that ensued after four days passed with noughts, and the capacity audience enjoyed every bit of the session with Bhagawan sitting through for seventy five minutes.

As bhajans went on, forty minutes into the session, there was a pause as Bhagawan called one of the lead bhajan singing duo unto the dais, conversing and blessing the pair. Session continued with bhajans taking the lead. Another singer got to get His attention, and this time Bhagawan blessed the boy with a golden chain. It was 1833 hrs. and Bhagawan nodded for Mangala Arathi. As Arathi was on simultaneously blessed prasadam distribution also went on. A minute's pause ensued after the Arathi and Bhagawan asked for an encore of "Samastha Lokaaha...".

When human minds 'declared' the session over, Bhagawan had other plans and He sat through, glancing upon the boys and it was obvious that The Lord was in a mood to continue. As He was browsing through it was apparent that Bhagawan was ready for 'His Pick' and the boys in the front block got alerted and sat glued to the beauteous form. ...And the vast concourse was enjoying this Divine play involving The Lord and His 'properties'. One of the boys working with the Digital Studio got His attention followed by a faculty from Brindavan....and He called the senior lead singer followed by the singing pair once again...another pair followed and time clock was inching forward...it was about to be 1900 hrs. and Bhagawan indicated that it was time to move.

...And He moved off, taking a right turn, coming onto the lower verandah from the right of Ganesha, to move on retiring to Yajur Mandiram.

|| Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu ||

Sunday, Aug 8, 2010:- Sai News & Photo Updates:  Today, in the evening, emerging quite early at 1555 hrs., Bhagawan went for a half-round before taking a detour through the middle path to come onto the portico, not before pausing for a while at the primary block amusing the tiny tots, who enhanced the Veda chanting, joining en masse.

State Chief Minister Mr. K.Rosaiah along with another two ministers were awaiting Bhagawan in the Mandir. Blessing the Chief Minister with a twenty minute interview, Bhagawan spent next fifty minutes in before emerging at 1655 hrs., to move into the bhajan hall. Exiting from the bhajan hall Bhagawan came onstage at 1700 hrs., from the left of Ganesha commencing the proceedings for the day.

Birthday benedictions to students followed before the West Indian troupe moved onto the dais seeking invocatory blessings for its scheduled cultural presentation.

Continuing with the ongoing series of cultural presentations by visiting overseas groups, a group of nations from the Caribbean Islands presented a musical offering of West Indies Love, entitled Unity in Diversity. The island nations participated included Aruba, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Guyana etc. Over 240 devotees from the above island nations have joined in this pilgrimage to Prasanthi Nilayam.

Veda chanting ceased at 1710 hrs. before the the Island Nations' offering of Love blossomed in the form of a small stint of Vedam. Continuing from there they presented an array of seven songs, fast numbers, accompanied by scintillating music. The first song was the famous Harry Belafonte composition, "Island in the Sun", an illustration of daily life and living in the island nation. Next number to follow was "One Love, One Heart" of Bob Marley, on the Brotherhood of Man and Fatherhood of God. Third one "Oh Children of Noble and Ancient Culture" 'spoke about' the story of ancestral Indian migration of 'great labour' into the island lantion, building the 'new home' adhering to Dharma, that was carried from India. Four more songs followed, all sounding Love for the Lord before the Balvikas children and the Young Adults took over with a unique music extravaganza, an instrumental on Steel pan.

Tassa drums or Steel pans are claimed to have originated in the Caribbean islands, known as the traditional or Indigenous musical instrument of the island nation made purely out of used oil barrels.

Playing on the tassa drums, this group of children, tuned to the finger baton of the conductor, created a west Indian canvas on the waning hour of the day, showcasing the rarest of the culture of the island nation, as a loving offering at the Lotus Feet of Bhagawan. Both the offerings were conducted by Rana Mohip from Trinidad and Tobago.

Earlier, introducing the programme, a mention was made of the humanitarian services rendered by the island nations during the devastating earthquake that rocked Haiti early this year.

This fifteen minute offering was followed by a couple of bhajans by the troupe before Bhagawan called for Mangala Arathi at 1755 hrs. Upon accepting Arathi, blessing prasadam for distribution, Bhagawan moved off the dais into the interview room. A minute later He emerged to glide into the ladies side, and as He was on the move, it started raining outside. His Divine Chariot came rushing awaiting the Lord, parked just inside the entrance point from the Yajur Mandiram. Bhagawan glided past, once again, opting out the car, retiring to Yajur Mandiram.

The weekend session that began quite early, just before 1600 hrs., ended in two hours. at 1800 hrs. A big contingent of 'green scarved' men and women devotees numbering over 1200 from Region 94 of Sri Sathya Sai Organisations, from the United Arab Emirates, have arrived Prasanthi commencing its ten days' pilgrimage.

|| Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu ||

Saturday, Aug 7, 2010 - Sai News & Photo Updates:  This morning, making an early entry at 0733 hrs. to the chants of Vedam, Bhagawan went for a quick round of darshan before getting into the interview room at 0740 hrs. With Vedic chants continuing, Bhagawan spent next more than half-an-hour inside granting interview to some Italian devotees. In the meanwhile bhajans commenced at the scheduled hour, at 0900.

Emerging at 0915 hrs. Bhagawan glided through the upper portico, conversing and blessing some, before 'turning above' from half way stage, to come onstage, via doctors' block, past 0920 hrs. A crescendo in bhajans marked His grand entry and the happiness of the multitude was evident from the extra smile lit on many a face present.

 Soon it was time for Mangala Arathi. Upon accepting Arathi, Bhagawan moved off the dais to glide into the ladies' end, at 0925 hrs., moving slowly, blessing many, towards Yajur Mandiram.

Bhagawan was onstage just for five minutes, but that was enough for this multitude to get charged awaiting their next blessed opportunity.

This evening, emerging at 1754 hrs. to the holy Vedic incantations, Bhagawan wafted among the multitude, slowly, glancing upon many and blessing before completing a full round. Men and women seated from Northern European countries and the tiny tots from Easwaramma English Medium School earned special attention as Bhagawan spent quite sometime attending to these groups.

Coming onstage in sixteen minutes, at 1710 hrs., Bhagawan sat on, watching over, listening to the Vedic incantations enhanced by the tiny tots from Easwaramma English Medium School.

Taking their turn, Northern European Choir comprising of 12 countries from European Zone 7 of Sri Sathya Sai Organisations, Overseas was blessed by Bhagawan to stage a Choir programme entitled ALL ARE ONE. Participating countries were Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Denmark, The Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary, Poland and Sweden. Over three hundred men and women from these countries have joined this pilgrimage to Prasanthi Nilayam lasting for ten days.

While the Veda chanting continued some of the men from the group got special attention from Bhagawan as He chose to interact with them. Familiar figure during Christmas Choir and singer of repute, Gisela Sebastian from Germany won special Divine attention as Bhagawan materialised a golden chain for the blessed artiste, well received with roar of applause.

Veda chanting ceased at 1735 hrs. and following initial invocation and an announcement on the scheduled programme by the programme co-ordinator, the choristers began their 'journey' with a piece of Indian incantation, Ganesha Prarthana, invoking Lord Ganesha.

Continuing with the Indian tongue, this all 'European Choir' sang two more pieces, one from The Bhagavad Gita followed by " Bhumi Mangalam" before switching over to its comfort zone, English and some regional languages, namely, German, Lithuanian and French.

Accompanied by fine piece of music, generating harmonious rhythm, at time fitting synchronised clapping, more of Indian style, the choristers produced a musical evening of dedication and devotion to the delight of the evening's capacity audience. The Choir was ably conducted by Ms. Alma Badings from The Netherlands, a familiar face in Prasanthi during X-Mas Children Choir, with Ms. Gisela Sebastian leading 'the singing' from the front, laying extra hands on the keys of harmonium.

Musical pieces for the evening included Hallelujah from Handel's Messiah, Ode to Joy, a customised Beethoven classic etc. Many hymns had interesting refrains, direct prayers unto Him and some of them were quite noteworthy for the manner in which they were produced, which were typical, loud, fast and quite abrupt erupting greater enthusiasm and joy. Final pieces were one on "Unity" followed by a "Wishing Happy Days" to The Dearest Lord.

Fifty minutes' programme was followed by twenty minutes' bhajans by the choristers. As they began to sing, Bhagawan blessed singer Gisela Sebastian with a print of her blessed snap with Bhagawan, materialiasing the chain. Prasadam got sanctified by His touch and as the distribution went on, after 5-6 bhajans, sung with elan suffused with devotion, Bhagawan called for Mangala Arathi. Upon accepting Arathi, Bhagawan spent another five minutes onstage, glancing at the choristers, blessing two of the men, including the youngster who was on the harmonium, before leaving the dais at 1855 hrs.

Moving off the dais, Bhagawan interacted with many before drifting into the bhajan hall for a round of inspection. Spending ten minutes inside, Bhagawan emerged yet again and The Divine Chariot, His car was ready. Opting out the car as Bhagawan glided towards the ladies'' side, a loud cheer emanated from the section, a natural expression of greater joy at getting one more close darshan. Time clock showed 1910 hrs. when Bhagawan left the portico gliding towards Yajur Mandiram, bringing curtains down on this blessed Saturday.

|| Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu ||

Friday, Aug 6, 2010 - Sai News & Photo Updates: Today, this evening, with the holy chants of Vedam reverberating in the air, Bhagawan emerged at 1645 hrs. to come for a slow, full round of darshan that took nearly fifteen minutes. Coming onstage at 1700 hrs., from the right of Ganesha, as Bhagawan settled, Veda chanting ceased in next five minutes giving way to the evening's cultural presentation by Team UK.

After initial invocation by the officials seeking blessings before the presentation, Dana Gillespie, well known western vocalist of the popular London Blues Band presented the programme to the audience in her booming voice.

	Large size photos UK Choir

The UK had two programmes of twenty minutes duration in store. The first programme was a Children Choir participated by around 200 SSE children, both boys and girls, from different part of the Kingdom. Producing six songs, sung in Voice of Unity, ably conducted by Zita Starkie with Richard Braithwaite strumming the guitar, the choir had many little hands strumming various instruments that were in proportion to their 'size'. The six hymns included, All You Need is Love...from the Beatles by George Harrison, ..., My Sweet Lord..., Lord's Command, a Scottish number, Day by Day...to end up with Lord of the Dance...

The Children presentation was followed by the National Youth Choir of the United Kingdom. The presentation entitled "All is One" was unique, conducted by Dana Gillespie on the ladies' side with Tim Cross for the gents. Starting with "The Seed is Sown...", they continued with some interesting numbers including one from the Upanishads, another one of more than hundred years old, still relevant in the present time, ...singing "Amazing Grace..." symbolic of Bhagawan's grace that brought them unto Prasanthi Nilayam, to end up with a medley of Hindi songs from the 1940's joined by the entire UK contingent, en masse.
 

A couple of bhajans by the UK troupe followed as directed by Bhagawan. Time clock ticked to 1900 hrs. and Bhagawan called for Mangala Arathi. Upon accepting Arathi, a lengthy pause ensued and prasadam distribution was on. Calling the three conductors, Bhagawan materialised Vibhuti prasadam for the trio while blessing them with interaction. After ten minute pause, Bhagawan indicated for bhajans by the UK contingent. Two bhajans followed after which second Arathi was offered. Upon accepting the same Bhagawan moved off the dais at 1925 hrs., to retire to Yajur Mandiram in His car.

Earlier while gliding past during His darshan round, Bhagawan was quite 'attentive' at the UK block, glancing over, blessing the contingent including the tiny tots who were seated in the front block.

An approximate number of over 1500 from the United Kingdom have joined this pilgrimage that would last tomorrow....And a strong contingent of over 1200 from the United Arab Emirates would be reaching the day after.

|| Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu ||

Thursday, Aug 5, 2010: - Sai News & Photo Updates: With Bhagawan amidst us, every day, every moment is auspicious; still, Holy Thursday assumes a special significance in Prasanthi and thus the title ‘The Auspicious Day’.

Today, on this auspicious Thursday evening, emerging at 1705 hrs. to the chants of Vedam, Bhagawan went for a slow round of darshan before ascending the portico in fifteen minutes.

The Lord who had long ago declared ‘Fostering the Vedas’ as one of His prime mission goals seemed to be explicitly doing the same; Bhagawan spent awhile at the primary block watching ‘little buds’ blossoming breathing Vedic  air. As He made His presence, the children got into a crescendo, ‘chanting to the heavens’ fully immersed in His presence.

Gliding through the lower portico, blessing the mandolin duo, U Srinivas and U Rajesh, Bhagawan came onstage at 1725 hrs. Vedam chanting ceased in next five minutes and something special was in the offing.

This time it was to be a Mandolin Serenade!  Carnatic music was to flow from the mouth of the tiny brittle instrument called Mandolin! The little lad whose musical genius made him a child prodigy, who weaved carnatic musical magic on his chosen instrument, who went on to become a maestro in the art, Mandolin U Srinivas, alongwith his sibling Mandolin U Rajesh, was to perform onstage in the Divine presence.

As the duo took Bhagawan's blessings, music flowed asserting her oneness with Him, as if emphatically reiterating the saying, "Music is Divine". Playing selected Carnatic collections, ably assisted by 'in-house' men on Tabla and Mridangam, the duo presented a fitting tribute to some of the past Masters of Carnatic Music, dedicating the presentation to the Master Musician whose greater benevolence played host to the evening's musical serenade.

Starting with Vatapi Ganapatim of Muthuswami Dikshitar the duo went on playing Endaro Mahanubhavulu, Telisi Rama, Rama Nannu Brovara, all compositions of Saint Thyagaraja , Raghuvamsa Sudha of Patnam Subramaniam Iyer to end with Venkatachala Nilayam Vaikunta Puravasam of Saint Purandara Dasa.The duo has been awaiting ‘their’ turn during the past few days, praying fervently for His Divine approval.

The stage was perfect with the semblance of Music and the Divine, inviting attention riveted onstage. It is rightly said, Music is Divine! When music starts flowing time stands still. An hour passed by and it was music all over with its serene façade charming the enchanting Divine and the blessed assembly on this blessed ‘the auspicious Thursday’.
What followed was honouring of the artistes. The duo was felicitated and draped with Shawls by Bhagawan. Accompanists on table and mridangam were also blessed by Bhagawan. Bhagawn blessed the 'foursome' with clothes as well.

As is seen these days, Bhagawan often brings His 'special brand' concluding such sessions in style.  A short bhajan session ensued, producing two scintillating aalaap bhajans on Lord Sri Rama, Sri Raghavam and Allaho Akbar before Bhagawan indicated for Mangala Arathi. Upon accepting Arathi, Bhagawan moved off the dais at 1900 hrs. to get into His car, retiring for the day at 1905 hrs.

|| Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu ||

A brief pause ensued after which Bhagawan came onstage at 1755 hrs. from the right of Ganesha. Many young entrepreneurs and business men from corporate conglomerate were seen vying for an opportunity to have His attention and Bhagawan was seen accepting letters from some of them.

A blissful bhajans session ensued as Bhagawan sat through the next more than half-an-hour. At 1830 hrs. Bhagawan indicated for Mangala Arathi, and upon leaving the dais, blessing some on His way, Bhagawan got into His car retiring to Yajur Mandiram at 1840 hrs.
 

The surge of devotees' continues in Prasanthi with many groups, big and small, joining the floating 'crowd' of devotees. Apart from a big contingent from the UK, scheduled to stay until 7 Aug, a mini group of over 300 from North Europe and another one from the West Indies are also camping awaiting their turn. Keeping the ball rolling, the UK contingent would be followed by another big group from The United Arab Emirates, reaching Prasanthi on 8 Aug.

The three day workshop of "Innovation and Leadership..." at Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning concluded this evening with concluding remarks and vote of thanks by students and faculties from the Institute. The final session on Innovation in the Social Sector was attended by Ms. Prerana Langa, VP - Strategy and Communication, ICICI Foundation for Inclusive Growth, PS Gunasekharan, Founder and CEO of YouSee and Ramanjith Singh, CEO, KAG.

|| Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu ||

The evening was earmarked for the state of Haryana and Chandigarh to echo its voice of gratitude to Bhagawan in His immediate Divine presence.

The state that is considered as the cradle of ancient civilisation is credited with playing host to the epic Mahabharata War, where blossomed Lord's eternal message, The Bhagavad Gita.

...And the evening presentation by the Sai Youth from the state had an interesting episode from the epic. The presentation entitled 'Satyam Vada Dharmam Chara' was a pointer towards the present day plight of the youth, living in utter confusion, being enticed by the influence of hollow western materialism. Bringing flashback from the epic Mahabharata, adapting the Yaksha - Yudhishtira conversation, the presentation in Hindi made an attempt to offer a viable solution to the perturbed youth of the day.

Winning the heart of the disarrayed youth, the Sai Youth introduced their present day task, as assigned by Bhagawan, thus introducing the 'Lord Walking on Earth' to the confused lot. Convinced of the mighty mission set in motion by Bhagawan, the youth sung in unison a melodious song echoing that "life with Sai is meaningful", bringing curtains down on the half-an-hour presentation.

Earlier, this short play was preceded by a Bal Vikas presentation entitled "Hari Ka Haryana" . The presentation, a music dance ballet was a depiction of the vibrant Haryanvi culture. At the end of the half-an-hour colourful programme, after presenting various facets of the rich culture of the state, the children declared that they are beholden to Bhagawan, now and forever, claiming 'themselves' to be the "Voice of Grateful Haryana".

As Bhagawan had moved off the dais towards the end of the second presentation, a ten minutes pause ensued before Bhagawan came onstage at 1845 hrs. 'Presentation ceremony' continued with boys and girls receiving sarees and safari pieces. At 1850 hrs., at the end of the 'presentation ceremony', Bhagawan moved down the dais to pose with the group for a 'snap with the Divine', boys and girls separately. Upon returning onstage Bhagawan indicated for Mangala Arathi.

A brief pause ensued after which, as ordained by Bhagawan, lead bhajan singer burst open in his melodious voice singing the famous Bhadrachala Ramdas composition, "O Raamaa Nee Naamam Entha Ruchi Raa, Emi Ruchi Raa Raamaa - O Raamaa", meaning O Sri Rama, how tasty is Your Name, O Rama, Your Name is so tasty!, sung with elan lighting up the final moments of the day's session.

Time ticked away to 1910 hrs. and Bhagawan indicated for another Arathi. Upon accepting Arathi, Bhagawan paused for a while, looking at the children seated in the front block, asking them to go and have food. Children greeted the Divine gesture with applause and Bhagawan moved off. Leaving the dais, Bhagawan boarded His car at 1916 hrs. retiring to Yajur Mandiram. Prasadam was distributed to the entire assemblage.

Earlier, before coming in for the day's darshan, Bhagawan moved out of Yajur Mandiram in the car, to Poornachandra side for a Divine round of inspection.

...And on Day - 2 of the "Innovation on Leadership" workshop at the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, discussions on three diverse topics, "Innovation - Some Additional Perspective", "Innovation for Growth - PSU/Manufacturing Sector", "Innovation - A Policy Perspective" etc., were held during the pre and post lunch sessions. During the first session held in the morning, one of the familiar names from telecommunication industry, Mr. Sam Pitroda, well known for his revolutionary ideas in the field, currently serving as Advisor to the Prime Minister of India on Public Information, Infrastructure and Innovations, also joined the deliberations on the subject 'Action plan for a decade of Innovation', via video teleconference.

|| Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu ||

Gliding past the lower portico, coming onstage at 1805 hrs., from the right of Ganesha, Bhagawan blessed the officials from Choir group to commence the programme.

Yes, the spirit of celebration continues in Prasanthi. Celebrating the Divine proximity men and women from Region 6, of Sathya Sai Seva Organisations - Overseas, comprising of ten countries, namely, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, France, Greece, Italy, Macedonia, Serbia, Slovenia and Switzerland joined together to present a "Unity in Diversity' concert, singing an array of songs in English, French, Italian, Swiss, Spanish and Greek ending with a closing refrain "Love All Serve All".
 

This en masse devotional rendering in varied tongue had the accompaniment of fine piece of music scored by different hands on different instruments. At the end of the forty minute session, special Italian prasadam was blessed by Bhagawan and, as the choristers continued with bhajans, this prasadam was distributed to the Choir members.

Bhajans in Indian tongue, emerged from over 600 vocal cords with Bhagawan presiding over the session crowning the dais, literally lit the waning twilight inducing great devotional fervour.

Accepting Mangala Arathi after three bhajans, Bhagawan moved off the dais to get into His car at 1915 hrs., retiring for the day.
 

Now, from Prasanthi Mandir to the hallowed portals of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, Prasanthi Nilayam.

A high-profile Management Development Programme on the theme “Innovation and Leadership in Business, Government and Community” is being held in the Multimedia Room of the Prasanthi Nilayam Campus under the auspices of School of Business Management of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, Prasanthi Nilayam.

The programme got underway this morning with Dr. R. Chidambaram, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, lighting the lamp, officially inaugurating the programme in presence of scores of other distinguished participants and University officials.

Prominent names, apart from Dr. R.Chidambaram, participating in the three day programme are Sharad C. Bhargava, Senior VP, L & T, N. Chandrasekharan, CEO, Tata Consultancy Services, Jagdish Capoor, Chairman, HDFC Bank, V. Raja, President & CEO, GE Healthcare, India, RC Bhargava, Chairman, Maruti Suzuki India Ltd., Robert Naylor, Former CIO, US Small Business Administration, Dr. JS Sarma, Chairman, TRAI, Sam Ganga, Senior VP, Digital Management, Ramnathan V Guha, Distinguished Scientist, Google and Krishna Mikkilineni, President, Honeywell Technology Solutions etc.

Sunday, August 1,2010: - Sai News & Photo Updates: Today, in the weekend evening, Bhagawan emerged at 1805 hrs. to come for a full round of darshan. Completing the round, pausing for a while at the primary block, Bhagawan moved further into the ladies' side bringing an extra smile on many a face with His 'extra darshan'. After moving a full length, Bhgawan returned moving towards the portico.

Upon coming onto the portico, Bhagawan moved through to come onstage just before 1830 hrs., from the right of Ganesha, marked by a crescendo in bhajans.

As bhajans went on, birthday boys took their turn to receive special benedictions. Daylight's 'descending beauty', twilight, brings greater charm,

adding splendour to Prasanthi's 'amphitheatre', projecting the Mighty Divine Persona on the centre stage, illuminating thousands of hearts and minds elevating the souls. ...And the capacity audience on this weekend session had it in full measure.

Time ticked away to 1855 hrs. and Bhagawan indicated for Mangala Arathi. Upon accepting Arathi, Bhagawan moved into the interview room. Coming out in five minutes, Bhagawan moved past the upper portico, casting His benedictory glance upon many, granting another round of 'extra darshan'. Moving down, Bhagawan glided through the lower portico, retiring for the day at 1915 hrs.

|| Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu ||