Darshan Update

Archival: ...Mar 2010.... Apr 2010... May 2010...June 2010...July 2010...Aug 2010..

Posted on Monday, Sept 13, 2010 at 1130 Hrs. IST

Sun, Sep 12, 2010: Today, this weekend sunday turned out to be the most gratifying day for a group of privileged parents! These parents were honoured by Bhagawan Himself, a Divine Reward for their rightful decision to educate their children in Sathya Sai Institutions followed by their parental 'consent' permitting these children to stay back, serving in various Prasanthi institutions.

The group known as "Sai Sannidhi" has a total strength of 191 former students who are employed in various institutions, namely, Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust, Sri Sathya Sai Sadhana Trust, Twin Super Speciality Hospitals in Prasanthi and Whitefield, Twin General Hospitals in Prasanthi and Whitefield, Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Leanring, Prasanthi Nilayam and Brindavan Campuses etc.

Poornachandra was set with all the participating parents and their children readied themselves in advance, as early as at 1530 hrs. (03:30 p.m.) Arrangements had been meticulously made so that Bhagawan could spend time with each family. Interesting videos of Bhagawan’s visit to Sri Sathya Sai Panduranga Kshetra, Pune and videos of Old Brindavan days were screened as the group sat waiting for The Divine arrival.

Coming into the hall at 1730 hrs. (05:30 p.m.) Bhagawan moved into the rows, satisfying each family, blessing them, answering their queries, showering Akshatas (sanctified rice). As one of the speakers mentioned, Bhagawan interacted with each family as if He was part of their family. Yes, it goes without saying Bhagawan is part of each and every family.

Bhagawan spent more than an hour and a half moving amongst the families. Subsequently, Bhagawan moved onto the specially erected dais. Mementoes, unique as each member had his name written on the packet containing the souvenir were distributed. Each member family had a special gift as well. Two short speeches followed; Sri Sai Sundrenath, Teacher, Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School expressed his feelings in a succinct way, blurting his joy on Bhagawan showering so much for all the members and their families. The next speaker Sri Sanjay Sahni, Principal, Brindavan Campus, Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning who expressed his gratitude to Bhagawan. He said in a voice of pride and gratitude, “Bhagawan, Your Sannidhi (proximity) is our greatest Pennidhi (wealth)". He also echoed the feelings of all members that Bhagawan has bestowed upon them the opportunity to play a part in His mission when thousands are waiting for such a cherished golden opportunity! The glorious session came to an end with Mangala Arathi at 1925 hrs. (07:25 p.m.)

Entire Sai Sannidhi participants were served with breakfast, traditional lunch and dinner during the day.

Back in the Mandir, bhajans were on, not amplified through public address system. It was a lengthy wait for the week-end assembly. Waiting for the Lord becomes an enduring pleasure once your heart seeks His presence with selfless love....Bhagawan arrived just after 1930 hrs. (07:30 p.m.) and the bhajans got in to a crescendo with public address system turned on. Coming for a complete round, Bhagawan, as usual, moved further into the ladies' end, for a full length, before turning about to come on to the verandah. Moving on through the lower verandah, Bhagawan went into the bhajans hall, Exiting through the main entrance, Bhagawan came onstage at 1950 hrs. (07:50 p.m.). One more bhajan, and Bhagawan nodded for Mangala Arathi. After the Arathi, Bhagawan asked for an encore of "Samastha Lokaaha..." As blessed prasadam went for distribution, Bhagawan sat for a while before moving off, retiring to Yajur Mandiram beyond 2000 hrs. (08:00 p.m.) bringing curtains down on yet another glorious week!

II Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu II

Sat, Sep 11, 2010: Today is the auspicious day of Vinayaka Chaturthi! This evening, emerging from Yajur Mandiram after 1815 hrs., (06:15 p.m.) Bhagawan drove down to the western end of Prasanthi to the construction site of the Pilgrims' dormitories. Today was the blessed day Bhagawan chose to bestow upon His sanctifying touch, throwing open the first phase of the dormitories, newly built, to the pilgrims who flock to Prasanthi Nilayam.

Reaching the venue at 1822 hrs., (06:22 hrs. IST) Bhagawan was received by the former L & T chief, Sri Ramakrishna and Sri Satish Naik, Chief Engineer of Prasanthi NIlayam along with scores of engineers and staffers amid Vedam chanting. Lighting the lamp, blessing the occasion, Bhagawan went for a round through one of the blocks, flanked by scores of senior administrators and officials. Bhagawan had a detailed look at the facilities being provided and as He was moving past, the former chairman went on explaining various facilities provided and other projects in progress, especially at Anantapur, Muddenahalli and in Prasanthi itself. Completing the round of the twin block, Bhagawan came out to accept Mangala Arathi at 1842 hrs. (06:42 p.m.). Leaving the venue, as Bhagawan got into His car, He was greeted by enthusiastic 'shoutings' by hundreds of men and women, the workforce from the L & T, who had been most devotedly awaiting The Lord's arrival for long hours! Moving close to the group as He was driving past, Bhagawan blessed the mini-concourse with His benedictory glance and abhayahastha. Rejoicing the occasion, in response, the enthusiastic bunch shouted yet again rendering the air with louder 'Jaikars'...as Bhagawan was moving off the scene.

Each of these triple storeyed dormitories are having twin units holding a capacity of 504. With an total of 10 such dormitories to be completed before the 85th birthday, an estimated more than 5300 devotees can be accomodated once the project is completely operational. Additional features provided includes bunk coats, open shelves for keeping belongings, liberal bathroom facilities, washing facilities, sufficient fanning and ventilation etc.

Back in the Sai Kulwant Hall, bhajans went on and Bhagawan drove straight into the hall to go for a full round of darshan. Alighting at the verandah, Bhagawan moved onstage just before 1900 hrs. (07:00 hrs. IST) and soon it was time for Mangala Arathi.

Upon accepting Mangala Arathi, Bhagawan sat for some more time as blessed prasadam was being distributed. Moving off at 1910 hrs. (07:10 p.m.) Bhagawan went into the interview room for a short stint before emerging at 1915 hrs. (07:15 p.m.) retiring to Yajur Mandiram.

Celebrating the occasion of the 85th Year of Bhagawan's Advent, free north indian style breakfast was served in the Ashram Canteen in the morning. This was a dedicated offering by the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, Madhya Pradesh. The special service would be continuing on sunday as well.

II Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu II

Fri, Sep 10, 2010: Indonesia, the land with great cultural heritage, land of many islands, has come as a group on a Parthi Yathra. ...And, the evening was earmarked for the island nation to celebrate the joy of the Advent of 85 years of Divine sojourn.

Coming up with triple presentations, the island nation was ready on the beautiful evening joining the mass of devotees invoking the Divine. Bhagawan emerged at 1820 hrs. (06:20 pm IST), to the escort of a group from Indonesia, dressed up in colourful costumes reflecting national tradition. As The Lord moved past, Bhagawan blessed many including a group of boys having tiny Ganeshas,meant for different houses in the hostel, seeking blessings. Upon completing a full round of darshan, spending awhile with the tiny tots at the Primary School block, Bhagawan moved further into the ladies' side. Turning about, after a full length, Bhagawan came onto the verandah, moving into the bhajan hall, where the students were waiting for "Swami" seeking blessings for a scheduled presentation on Ramzan.

Blessing the boys, Bhagawan emerged shortly to move onstage at 1840 hrs. (06:40 pm IST) and Veda chanting raised into a higher tone. Seniors from the Indonesian group moved towards Bhagawan invoking blessings before the commencement of the programme.

At a time when personal interactions become a rarity, in this changing phase of time of the Avatar, every group that flocks to Prasanthi converse with The Lord through its presentations. Quite often, such programmes begin with introduction as a prelude, directly offering love and gratitude, in the process engaging in a sort of conversation with The Lord! Indonesian's followed the pattern giving a fitting intro for the programme bursting into a melodious song, "Gaana Priye O! Bhaava Priye..." in praise of Mother Divine!

What ensued was an hour long cultural presentation by the Sai Youth, the Balvikas and the Sathya Sai Study Group of Indonesia, reflecting Bhagawan's teachings, highlighting some of the Sai Ideals!

The main programme by the group was a drama entitled "The Search for Paradise" by the Sai Youth of Jakarta. The presentation was an illustration of the story of a youth who comes to terms with life's biggest lessons, ending up transforming himeself, airing unconditional love towards his one-time neglected parents.

Vishal, the protagonist, was into the wrong side of life, immersed in materialism, ignoring parents, rocking and rollicking with illusory success in the temporal world, quite ignoramous of the true side of human sojourn. Despite sincere efforts from his good, guiding friend, Ali, who was into Sai way of life, Vishal was not ready to pay heed to the good advice by the friend. When destiny took its toll and he was exposed to adversity, having lost a bet on 'match-fixing' a football game ending up loosing millions, the greedy one came back to his senses and there began his true journey of transformation.

Presenting a most prevalent theme of current times, packed with superb dialogue delivery and natural acting, the presentation turned out to be an eye-opener, yet another chapter in the book of "Transformation". The drama concluded with a declartion that true paradise could be found only at the feet of the parents!

Earlier, the presntation began with a dance, "Krisnna Rasaleela" by the Balvikas children from Sri Sathya Sai School, Bali. The presentation was a depiction of Madhura Bhakthi exemplified by the gopikas and Radha. Presented in Balinese style, quite alien to Prasanthi, the dance depiction by scores of little children who swayed to the melody of Divine sport, turned out to be an atypical experience for Prasanthi introducing the great Balinese tradition.

The final presentation was by the Sri Sathya Sai Study Group of Indonesia, a depiction of Cosmic Divine Dance of Lord Shiva! Marked by colourful costumes, to the accompaniment of typical South East Asian style of music, the presentation was an offering at Bhagawan's Feet, seeking The Lord to shower His grace to help them achieve life's foremost goal!

Soon after the presentation, Bhagawan moved down the dais, posing for photographs, blessing all the groups. ...And the character of Ali, the good friend, earned special Divine attention as Bhagawan materialised a golden chain for the youth.

Bhagawan returned onstage and the session was far from over! As Bhagawan moved off, for a while, into the interview room, the Institute students were readying themselves for Eid celebration on the eve of the Muslim festivity. Wishing Id Mubarak, making a mention of the month long fasting and penance that entitles the community of highest Divine benediction, students burst open into a Qawwali tune in traditional Sufi style, in praise of Allah, The One Lord!

The next item to follow was "Namaz", the typical muslim prayer. At the nightfall, when the silent air in Prasanthi reverberated with the religious, godly tunes of Muslim traditional prayer, the Namaz, with scores of children engaged in praying in the Divine presence of the Mighty Lord, it sent out the sublme message of secularism that Bharat has always been promoting and Bhagawan has been echoing through His maxim, There is Only One Religion, The Religion of Love!

The programme continued with a skit on the celebration of the festival Ramzan, illustrating the spirit of the celebration, that crosses all religious barriers. Bringing parallels from The Bhagavad Gita and other religious scriptures, the presentation spoke about the true spirit of the festivity divulging details about the importance fasting etc.

Expounding on the true sense of the religion, talking on man's follies of projecting his religion to be the only one, the grateful students burst into yet another song of glory in praise of The Only One God!

A dedication song followed, before summarising the presentation with a 'thesis' on His all conquering love, singing the popular tune, "Sai Ke Darbar Mein..."calling one and all to the precincts of Prasanthi!

Quite a world with "a God" who embraces men from all walks of life and faiths, it may sound 'utopian', yet, Prasanthi lives every moment breathing the life force infused by this "Lord Who Walks The Earth" inviting everyone to witness This Great Grand Happening on Planet Earth! Rightfully, the students concluded, singing, "Aaoji Aao...Sai Ke Darbar Mein..."

Bhagawan moved down the dais yet again, posing with His children. Returning onstage, Bhagawan sat for a while flipping through the leaves of "Holy Quran" placed at His hand by the students. At 2055 hrs. (08:55 pm IST) Bhagawan turned to the priest indicating for Mangala Arathi.

Blessing the concourse with His abhayahastha, Bhavawan moved off the dais. The time clock was ticking past 2100 hrs. (09:00 pm IST) as Bhagawan was gliding into the western aisle leading to the ladies' side retiring for the day, bringing curtains down on this glorious Prasanthi evening.

Special prasadam, Indonesian chocolates packed artistically, were distributed to the entire assemblage.

Ganesh Chaturthi is schdeuled for the morrow and in the night, hostels and various other institutions will be quite active, with decorating and housing the Lord, the remover of all obstacles, before the rituals begin on the auspicious Vinayaka Chaturthi morning. Being the week-end, students from the Anantapur and Brindvan campuses have also joined Prasanthi feasting His Divine presence during the twin festive occasion!

II Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu II

Thu, Sep 09, 2010: HE is glory came down to planet earth and every time, every day, every session, when He comes out granting Divine Darshan, it writes yet another glorious chapter in the Story of God's Supreme Divine Benediction!

Today, on this holy Thursday evening, Bhagawan emerged at 1814 hrs. to come for a full round of Darshan. As He moved past the flocks of devotees, Bhagawan spent awhile at the primary block, accepting greeting cards, conferring birthday benedictions to some of the tiny tots. Interacting with some, Bhagawan moved further into the ladies' side, for a full length, to turn about to come on to the verandah. Blessing spree continued as Bhagawan moved past the lower verandah to come onstage at 1838 hrs. And full throated bhajans rented the air with added vigour, heralding His entry onstage.

The session continued for another half-an-hour as Bhagawan sat through presiding over the session. At 1900 hrs., Bhagawan accepted Mangala Arathi, upon which He interacted with one of the lead bhajan singers who had a Ramzan programme card for Divine approval. Whispering into the singer's ear, Bhagawan sat for some more time before moving off the dais at 1910 hrs. to get into the the interview room. A couple of minutes later, Bhagawan emerged to glide into the ladies' side retiring for the day.

Earlier, when Bhagawan emerged from Yajur Mandiram in the evening, He was greeted by a group of boys from the hostel along with the warden of the hostel who arrayed there with Ganesha statues to be taken to the hostels after the sanctifying touch from Bhagawan, an annual procedure. Interacting with the warden and the boys, Bhagawan moved into Sai Kulwant Hall for His round of Divine Darshan!

II Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu II

Wed, Sep 08, 2010: Today, nature had her backdrop set with inclement weather prevailing over, and even as Prasanthi continued with her 'penance' invoking The Lord, youth brigade from the neighbouring Himalayan Kingdom was ready with a bouquet of devotional offerings.

Emerging at 1840 hrs., to spontaneous applause in sheer excitement and joy, Bhagawan moved past with Vedic incantations filling the air, joined by an enthusiastic batch of Easwaramma English Medium School children. Completing a full round, after spending awhile with the children, Bhagawan moved into the ladies' side not before turning about to come on to the portico. Moving into the bhajan hall, Bhagawan spent sometime inside, before emerging through the main entrance.

Glilding past the upper portico, blessing many enroute, Bhgawan came onstage at 1905 hrs. to commence further proceedings for the evening.

Initial invocation and blessings ensued with the youth making a fervent prayer mentioning about the prevailing security concern back in the country, that was hit by political unrest. The Nepalese presentation was a musical bouquet comprising of three programmes, twenty minutes apiece, veda chanting, songs vocal followed by songs instrumental.

After the twenty minute Vedam stint that comprised of Ganesh Prarthana, Narayana Upanishad and Mantra Pushpam, the songs began that were set in folk tunes of Nepal, sung jointly with a blend of varied beats. The third and final song was a prayer to help in restoration of peace in the country. The last item was an instrumental medley of folk and classical songs. The programme lasted for an hour.

Sarees and Safari pieces were distributed among the participants and at 2010 hrs. Bhagawan accepted Mangala Arathi. Session was to continue as Bhagawan moved down the dais to pose with the group, gents and ladies seperately. Returning onstage, Bhagawan moved off the dais into the interview room.

Emerging at 2040 hrs. Bhagawan glided into the ladies' end retiring for the day. Prasadam was distributed to the entire assemblage.

The 1800 strong Nepalese contingent of Youth has been on a ten day pilgrimage to Prasanthi Nilayam. Utilising their stay in the ashram, the youth most exemplarily engaged in various service activities, with various batches pressing themselves into service on different days, cleansing areas outside the ashram premises, mainly the road in front of the ashram, planetarium side, River Chitravathi banks etc.

II Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu II

Tue, Sep 07, 2010: This tuesday morning earned the Divine favour, as Bhagawan came out granting Divine Darshan! Hit by gloomy weather with shady sky blocking the brightness of the Sun, The Lord emerged at 0921 hrs. lighting up the morning with His warm presence! Coming for a full round, interacting with some devotees, Bhagawan moved into the bhajan hall to spend quite sometime in. Subsequently emerging at 0951 hrs., Bhgawan moved into the interview room to spend next forty minutes in. As time sped past, bhajans went on until Bhagawan emerged at 1028 hrs. to accept Managala Arathi. Moving off the dais at 1033 hrs., Bhagawan glided into the ladies' side retiring for the session.

Prasanthi brings the rarest ever boon, to invoke the Lord in physical, singing His glories twice per day. With bhajans rolling from one to another, it becomes a virtual sadhana of enticing The Lord with many a name. The more the waiting prolongs, which is a one-off boon for Prasanthi, her yearning intensifies.

This evening, one of such intensified yearning, Bhagawan emerged at the twilight hour, at 1843, and the response in Sai Kulwant Hall was swift as flash of light spread across luminating the God's Theatre, heads turned and eyes glued with hands going up in reverential posture and full throated bhajans rented the air with added vigour...and...Bhagawan moved on!!!

A slow round ensued with many getting their share of bliss of close darshan, sparshan and some with sambhashan. Completing a full round Bhagawan moved further into the ladies' end, before turning about to come onto the portico.

Lengthy interactions followed and even as He glided past the lower portico, many received His attention before Bhagawan assumed His seat at 1915 hrs. Soon it was time for Mangala Arathi. In the meanwhile, blessed prasadam went for distribution.

After Arathi and the Universal prayer, Bhagawan asked for an encore of "Samastha Lokaaha...". With prasadam distribution in the half-way, Bhagawan sat on and a group of children with a card moved unto Him. Bhagawan spent quite sometime with the group, seeing the card, in between calling some of the related faculties, blessing them all.

At 1930 hrs. Bhagawan moved off, continuing to interact with some enroute, before gliding into the ladies' end at 1935 hrs. retiring for the day.

Nepalese Group of devotees has been camping in Prasanthi and the group is awaiting its turn to perform in the Divine presence. At the end of the session, as the en masse 'Jaikar' rented the air, a hundred hand went up from the assembly, most of them nepalese, wishing The Lord in ecstastic devotion!.

II Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu II

Mon, Sep 06, 2010: As the fresh week's maiden darshan was awaited, this evening, there was added devotional fervour in the air and as time rolled by Prasanthi continued with her "Penanace" invoking The Lord! ...And soon with the arrival of the beautiful twilight, there was a bustle outside the Yajur Mandiram indicating the imminent emergence of The Divine!

Emerging at 1845 hrs. to come for a full round of darshan, Bhagawan moved into the bhajan hall for a short stint. Coming out shortly through the main entrance, blessing someone on His way, Bhagawan moved onstage at 1905 hrs. through the doctors' block marked by a raised tempo in bhajans.

In next five minutes, Bhagawan nodded for Mangala Arathi. Asking for an encore of "Samastha Lokaaha..." Bhagawan sat for another five minutes, glancing at the assembly, and the hall was engulfed in total silence. Moving off, Bhagawan interacted with some devotees before gliding into the ladies' side at 1925 hrs. retiring for the day.

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Sat, Sep 04, 2010: Divine Marriage of the Divine Couple in the immediate Divine Presence of The Supreme Divine in the Divine Abode undoubtedly bears the Supreme Divine Significance!

Today, on this day of auspicious Arudra star, in the evening, Prasanthi Nilayam witnessed the most auspicious Divine Marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi, as Bhagawan presided over the session.

Assuming the greater significance of the holy occasion, as such occasions come as a rarity, the Sai Kulwant Hall and Mandir as a whole wore a festive mask with natural decorations parading all over heralding the significance. Flower buntings and festoons coupled with special tender coconut leaves with matted designs were spread across the entire Yajur Mandiram premises and at the centre block and lower portico in the Mandir.

In the front block, facing the seat of the Divine, there was a mandap (covered stage structure with pillars) erected, a square shaped one with dome atop, fully studded with natural decor in place. It was "Pachchathoranam", greenish tinge, the sign of prosperity and auspciousness, parading all over. ...All the ritual related paraphernalias were arrayed in the mandap, arranged in neat order.

At 1720 hrs. Bhagawan emerged to the holy strains of Vedam. Bhagawan was accorded a Poornakumbha Swagatham and was ushered into the hall by a grand procession led by a Veda chanting youth of Karnataka. The Divine Idols of Lord Chandrasekhara and Goddess Parvathi were escorted into the hall in a grand procession, as divinity richly deserves. While the Idols were brought into the mandap directly, Bhagawan went for a full round of darshan before coming onstage at 1732 hrs.

As the Lord emerged from His Divine Abode, a special musical troupe rendered special bhajans that continued for fifteen minutes, till 1735 hrs. The Parvathi Chandrasekhara Kalyana Mahotsavam virtually began thereafter with the rituals commenced in the Divine presence.

Song on the auspiciousness of the holy marriage was sung in between, that was followed by the 'marriage announcement' listing out various attributes of the Lord and the Goddess, the bridegroom and the bride, with clear reference on the place of the marriage, the star, the day and a mention of the presiding deity in physical at whose behest the marriage is performed. The same announcement was repeated again, representing the bride's caravan.

Preceeding to the holy marriage, both the sides, that of bridegroom and the bride, engaged in an interesting argument, showering attributes at each other, persuading the opposite party to take the first step to propose for the marriage.

The whole session was interspersed with holy strains of Vedam, commentary on the function, bhajans in praise of the Divine couple while a set of priests were engaged in various ritualistic rites, with Bhagawan watching over. Holy chantings continued invoking blessings while related rituals went on. The rituals included Punyahavachanam (purificatory rites), Thamboola Seva, Kanyadanam, Mangala Sutra offering, Vadhoo Vara Puja etc.

Bringing in the final phase of the ceremony, the couple were taken onto the stage where the Divine marriage was performed. The sanctified Mangala Sutra was tied around the neck of Goddess Parvathi, symbolising the completion of the holy marriage.

After the Divine Marriage, Gowri Kalyana Vaibhavam song rendered the air, rejoicing the auspiciousness of the occasion.

Bharat's rich spiritual lore is replete with stories of such unique Divine Union, union of Prakrithi with Purusha, foremost being that of Lord Rama with Mother Sita, Lord Krishna with Goddess Rukmini and of course, the Supreme Divine Parents, Lord Chandrasekhara and Goddess Gowri, that brings supreme benedictions. Lord Himself sat through presiding over the whole cerememony granting Prasanthi and her assemblage the highest privilege to witness a rare spiritual 'feast' of supreme benediction.

As holy prasadam was sanctified by Bhagawan, bhajans by the troupe rendered the air that was sung in a different tune, most unheard in Prasanthi. After some bhajans, as commanded by Bhagawan, students burst into a melodious rendering of Sita Rama Kalyanam followed by a couple of bhajans before Bhagawan asked for Mangala Arathi at 1900 hrs.

Sumptuous prasadam, specially packed, were distributed to the entire assemblage. The prasadam pack contained, Tamarind Rice, Sweet Pongal, Bobbattu, Banana etc. As is the custom in Andhra marriages, special gift packets containing, fruit, special sweet prasadam, savoury item, betal leaves, turmeric powder, vibhuti prasadam etc. were also distributed to the entire assemblage.

Leaving the dais, Bhagawan glided towards the ladies' side, when Primary School children with prasadam packets in hand, chanted "Brahmarpanam....", the food prayer en masse. Bhagawan paused for a while, accepting their prayers, before moving on retiring for the day, presenting yet another most auspicious evening to cherish.

The auspicious function was a humble offering at His Divine Lotus Feet by the dedicated Youth of Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, Karnataka.

II Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu II

Fri, Sep 03, 2010: Today, in the evening, emerging at 1720 hrs., Bhagawan was ushered into the hall to a Poornakumbha Swagatham followed by a special escort of Vedic procession by a band of children from various Sathya Sai Schools across India, who have come on a Prasanthi Pilgrimage.

Moving on, attending to some devotees and subsequently glancing upon the "Vidya Vihar Team", arrayed in hudreds, Bhagawan moved past casting His special benedictions upon the flag-bearing children posed at the centre against the backdrop for the day's programme. Moving on, Bhagawan had an interaction with some of the participants before proceeding to complete the round. Blessing the birthday boys, speaking to the chief organisers at the ladies' end, Bhagawan turned to the tiny tots from the Primary School, pausing for a while posing them, listening to their chanting encouraging them to chant with added vigour. Moving a further length into the ladies' side, Bhagawan turned about to come onto the portico, proceeding to the bhajan hall.

Tomorrow being Arudra Star, the star presided over by Lord Shiva, is most auspicious and a Shiva Parvathi Kalyanam, a ceremony reminiscing the holy marriage betwee Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi would be held in the immediate Divine presence. Preceding to the auspicious day, this evening, Bhagawan performed the the Prana Pratishta of the idols, an act of infusing the Divine Life Force, followed by Netronmeelana, opening of the eyes of the deities, amidst Veda chanting. Upanayanam for the deity of Lord Chandrasekhara was also done as a part of the proceedings. The deities have been named as 'Chandrasekhara' and 'Parvathi' by Bhagawan Himself. These deities have been brought to Prasanthi Nilayam from Kumbhakonam, the 'temple town' of South India in Tamil Nadu. Before leaving the hall Bhagawan also blessed Angavastram for the priests.

Emerging in less than ten minutes, Bhagawan came onstage at 1750 hrs. through the doctors' block.

Veda chanting continued for ten more minutes before the commencement of the scheduled proceedings for the evening.

Over 1400 children from 79 Sathya Sai High Schools across India have come on a pilgrimage, celebrating the 'Joy of being One in the Divine Presence of Mother Sai'. Beginning the function after invoking initial blessings, a group of children burst open with a song dancing to the tune of "Sathyam Vada Dharmam Chara...Jeevan Daata." hailing Mother Sai's glory as the Supreme Lord, the bestower of life!

Soon, Dr. Ranga Rao, Trust Convener, Sri Sathya Sai Trust, Andhra Pradesh took over speaking on the mission and credentials of Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vihar Schools across India. Ninety One schools across India, including 79 High Schools with a student force of over 50000 are the centres of excellence imparting value based eductiion in the lines of the teachings of Bhagawan, said Dr. Ranga Rao, detailing credentials from the academic, sports and other extra-curricular front achieved by these schools.

Grouped under a unique platform established in "Unity", these schools, under the label, Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vihar, are going to have a common logo, common uniform for the students and a common song. The"common logo" was unravelled by the Divine hands, while the common uniform is already in place. Dr. Ranga Rao also made a mention about the "Vidya Vahini" initiative mooted by the alumni of Bhagawan's Institutions, which would be of immense benefit to the teachers in getting trained to turn into professionals in Sai mode of education.

Dr. B.G.Pitre, Director of Institute of Sri Sathya Sai Education, Mumbai presented a compendium on behalf of "All Sathya Sai Schools in India", entitled "Saplings of Love" that was released by the Divine hands.

Representing the schools, four children from four different parts of India presented short speeches on the subject, Sathyam Vada Dharmam Chara, in Hindi, Telugu, Sanskrit and English. While a boy from Rishikesh spoke in Hindi, three girls from Hyderabad, Chennai and Delhi, Swapna, Padmaja and Niti Agarwal followed in Telugu, Sanskrit and English respectively, essentially highlighting the greater importance of the subject under discussion in present times. The whole programme was ably compered in English by one of the girl students.

"Sai Vidya Sarasa Vidya", a dance drama highlighting the importance of eduction imparted in Sathya Sai Schools followed. The presentation was a depiction of Deshabhakthi Vidya, Mathrubhakthi Vidya and Seva Bhakthi Vidya finally reiterating the truth that the only way to tranform the world is to propagate Sai Vidya in every nook and corner of the world. As the presentation got off, Bhagawan moved off the dais to get into the interview room. Spending almost fifteen minutes in, Bhagawan moved into the bhajan hall to emerge and come onstage at 1900 hrs. ...And the programme continued.

The forty five minute presentation was a combined effort from the Sathya Sai Schools from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Gujarath. Presentation was intertwined with thematic dance songs sequences illustrating the above three aspects, devotion and love for Motherland, devotion and love for Mother, devotion and love towards Service to Humanity. The presentation ended with a colourful dance followed by a reference to Prasanthi Nilayam which is verily the Kaliyuga Kaliyuga Kalisam and Navayuga Vaikuntam where dwells Sri Sathya Sai Saraswathi, the bestower of all boons.

At the end of the presentation, Bhagawan moved down the dais, posing for photograph session with the participating children ssembled devoid of all barriers. Returning onto the stage in ten minutes, Bhagawan sat for some more time, as presentations, sarees and safari pieces for children went for distribution. At 1936 hrs., Bhagawan accepted Mangala Arathi. Asking the children to assemble in the front, Bhagawan graciously permitted the children to sing one Ganesha bhajan before asking for one more Arathi at 1945 hrs.

Moving off the dais, Bhagawan glided into the ladies' side at 1950 hrs. moving towards Yajur Mandiram, retiring for the day.

II Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu II

Thu, Sep 02, 2010: An all Krishna Bhajan session, Gokulam procession of cows and quadrupeds followed by a scintillating musical session of special Krishnashtami songs in the immediate Divine presence of the enchanting Avatar of the Age marked the Sri Krishna Janmashtami celebrations, today, in the evening, in Prasanthi Nilayam.

Emerging at 1758 hrs., Bhagawan moved into the hall blessing the "Gokulam Procession" of cows and quadrupeds including Sathya Gita, savouring golden moments of Gokuldham in the Dwapara Yuga. Reminiscing the scene and actions that happened over 5000 years ago, during the previous age, Prasanthi was feasting the Advent of the Love Avatar who shepherded men and animals and the entire creation with His all conquering love.

Moving unto the quadrupeds, Bhagawan spent sometime in the middle, feeding the 'special guests' for the evening before blessing and releasing a couple of white pigeons, symbolising universal peace. The procession had cows, calves, rabbits, deers, a peacock, pigeons apart from the little Sathya Gita. Earlier, Bhagawan was received at the venue by senior functionaries from Sri Sathya Sai Bhakta Sahayaka Sangh that runs the Sri Sathya Sai Gokulam along with a contingent of staffers, students from the Institute and Higher Secondary School. A special musical band from the Institute, comprising of saxophone, clarinet and tavil drum, was also present adding flavour to the occasion.

Completing a full round of darshan, Bhagawan spent awhile at the primary block enticing the enthused innocent bunch of little hearts before proceeding, moving into the ladies' side. Turning about, Bhagawan came onto the portico, to get into the bhajan hall for a while.

Emerging through the main entrance, sliding into the lower portico, Bhagawan spent quite sometime with the State President, Kerala, flipping through a photo album before proceeding to move onstage at 1840 hrs., from the right of Ganesha. Instantly, the bhajan troupe switched over to special Krishnashtami hyms to the accompaniment of scintillating musical score. As the songs continued, 'Krishna and Balrama' came onto the stage with a 'potful' of chocolates seeking blessings from the Lord in physical.

Beginning with the nectarous 'Madhurashtakam', the selected bunch of talented students presented one after one songs of celestial rhythm delivering the magical touch of the "Birthday Lord" and His all conquering love. Ending up with a scintillating hindustani classical in lines of Meera Bhai, at 1915 hrs. Bhagawan accepted Mangala Arathi.

The Session continued for some more time as the special percussion band comprising of saxophone, clarinet accompanied by mridangam was blessed to play to the tune of a couple of bhajans. As prasadam distribution went on, Bhagawan called "Krishna and Balrama' onstage to interact with them in detail for sometime. Blessing the "Divine Characters' with Vibhuti Prasadam and Paadanamaskaar, Bhagawan moved off the dais, retiring to Yajur Mandiram at 1940 hrs.

Earlier, as He was ushered in, a fleet of children from the Anantapur Campus and Primary school was awaiting the Lord with special greetings, seeking blessings on the special occasion. Blessing the children spending sometime around, gliding past, Bhagawan moved on to bless the Gokulam Procession. Similarly at the end of His round, He had a bunch of boys, from the Institute and Primary school seeking similar blessings.

In the evening turned twilight, the Mandir was glittering under the light and special decorations for the special occasion.The backdrop for the 'Seat of The Lord' had the enchanting Krishna statue adorning the centre stage.

Yes, the evening was indeed a 'Krishna Special' in presence of Sai Krishna....!!!

II Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu II

Wed, Sep 01, 2010: Today, the first day of the month of September, in the evening, the focus of attention was into the closed precincts of Poornachandra Auditorium.

Celebrating the 38th anniversary of Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust, the main body that runs the Divine Mission related activities, a programme was organised to honour members of staff working with various institutions under the Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust and Sri Sathya Sai Sadhana Trust, this evening in the Poornachandra Auditorium.

"Sevaamrutham", meaning necter of service, turned out to be a celebration of the greater boon bestowed upon by the Lord in physical frame. Participated by a mammoth 1370 staffers, both ladies and gents, that included functionaries, trustees, administrators and other staff down the ladder, the get-together turned out to become an explicit reminder of the greater boon bestowed upon by the Divine!

As the men and women occupied the spacious Poornachandra Auditorium well in advance of the scheduled hour, video clippings from His Story in the past were shown illustrating the glory and grandeur of the Sai Divine Saga. Greatness of the spirit of service in Prasanthi Nilayam was highlighted through some of the olden day discourses, laying down clear cut rules and regulations for the staffers to achieve the real purpose of Seva in Ashram.

Flanked by senior functionaries, Bhagawan arrived in the auditorium at 1640 hrs., received by some of the senior functionaries, while the mellifluous tunes of a popular welcome song in Telugu rendered the hall. Cutting a special cake for the occasion Bhagawan moved down the dais to assume His seat on the special dais erected for the occasion.

After a brief pause, Bhagawan moved down the stage blessing some of the senior women with sarees. Moving towards the gents' side, Bhagawan blessed scores of senior men, that included Secretary of the Trust and All India President of the Sai Organisation, with safari pieces.

After the initial round of blessings, programme commenced with a narration that had many an interspersed 'stories of glory' of the Sai Mission....and Bhagawan sat onstage with the lucid telugu narrative went on mesmerising the Divine and the audience equally.

Representing various institutions, three men and a woman spoke in Telugu, bursting into gratitude to Bhagawan. The programme was organised so meticulously that every speech was interspersed with thematic songs by the grateful talented bunch of students working with variuos ashram institutions. In the meantime, dress materials for other staffers were blessed by Bhagawan that went for distribution subsequently..

Bringing in the final phase of the glorious session, Bhagawan moved among the clustered bunches of staffers, granting them close darshan, as bhajans went on in the background. The session continued with Bhagawan preferred to sit onstage listening to the bhajans.

Time ticked past to 1822 hrs. and Bhagawan indicated for Mangala Arathi. All the staffers were blessed with a memento, a booklet, safari piece and laddu prasadam with bounteous Divine Darshan that tops the list!

After Mangala Arathi, Bhagawan moved off at 1825 hrs. blessing the privileged assembly of Sevaks with abhayahastha.

The programme was organised in response to an earnest prayer by the grateful students working with both Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust and Sri Sathya Sai Sadhana Trust, who are the front runners in upholding His maxim, "My Life is My Message"!

...And in the mandir, bhajans session went on from the scheduled hour...The 'long wait' ended at 1845 hrs. when Bhagawan emerged from Yajur Mandiram, ushering into the glittering assembly. Completing a full round, Bhagawan moved further into the ladies' side, as is His wont these days, before turning about to come onto the portico. Engaged in conversation with one of the seniors, Bhagawan glided past the lower verandah to come onstage at 1900 hrs. from the right of Ganesha. Sitting for fifteen minutes, Bhagawan accepted Mangala Arathi at 1915 hrs. Moving off the dais, Bhagawan got into the interview room for a brief session before emerging at 1926 hrs. to retire for the day.

Prasanthi is celebrating Sri Krishna Janmashtami tomorrow and the mandir wore a festive look with aesthetic decorations in place heralding the occasion.

In the meantime, a big group of over 1800, comprising of approximately 1400 students with principles, teachers, management committee members, from various Sathya Sai Schools across India are arriving in the township on a Prasanthi Pilgrimage. This group is expected to stage programmes in the coming days.

II Samastha Lokaaha Sukhino Bhavanthu II