DECEMBER 2005

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Embodiments of Love!

UMAN BIRTH IS MEANT TOattain peace and not to occupypositions of authority. One may

have all types of wealth and comforts, but lifehas no meaning without peace.

Equality is the Basis of Society

There are many people in this world whoare fabulously rich, highly educated andoccupy positions of great authority. But, in whatway is the world benefited by them? They turnaway the beggar who comes to their doorstep

Bereft of truth, righteousness, love and peaceThe value of all your education is zero;Bereft of truth, righteousness, love and peaceThe sanctity of all your acts of charity and kindness is zero;Bereft of truth, righteousness, love and peaceThe utility of all your positions of power is zero;Bereft of truth, righteousness, love and peaceThe result of all your good deeds is zero.

AVATAR VANI BHAGAVAN’S BIRTHDAY MESSAGE

TRUTH AND LOVE FORM THE

QUINTESSENCE OF MY MESSAGE

(Telugu Poem)

HH

I always teach the principles oftruth and love. Congregations likethis are meant only to exhort youto adhere to the path of truth and

love. All of you have gathered hereout of your love for Me. I am happythat all of you have come here to

listen to My Message, thequintessence of which is truth andlove. If you practise truth and lovein your daily life, that will make Me

very happy.

for alms. They have no time to help thesuffering humanity. Nobody seems to botherabout the condition of the poor and thedowntrodden. Samanatwa (equality) is veryessential for Samaja (society). How can societyexist without equality? Many people today areengaged in so-called social work. But this, infact, is show work, and not social work in thereal sense of the term. Having been born as ahuman being, you should strive for the welfareof society. You are a member of society andyour welfare depends on the welfare ofsociety. Hence, undertake activities which arebeneficial to society. Adhere to the principlesof truth and righteousness in life. Only thenwill your conduct become ideal for others insociety.

You should understand the import of theterm Manava in the first instance. What is thegoal of a human being? Is it to strive for thefulfilment of one’s desires? Is it to amassworldly gains? Is it to enjoy sensual pleasures?Human life is a mixture of happiness andsorrow. It is not possible to experience one tothe exclusion of the other. How can you expectto attain happiness and peace if you are notprepared to help your fellow human beings?Everyone has to experience ups and downsin life. Difficulties are a part of life. None canescape from them. Hence, one should treathappiness and sorrow with equanimity. Thereis pleasure in pain and vice versa. One shouldnot be elated by pleasure nor depressed bypain. We have to develop the spirit ofequanimity in order to progress in life.Sukhadukhe Samekruthwa LabhalabhauJayajayau (one should maintain equipoise inhappiness and sorrow, gain and loss, victoryand defeat). But man, in spite of enjoying allcomforts and pleasures, is unable tobear even a small difficulty.

Realise your Innate Divinity

Ask a wealthy person whether he is happyin life. What will he say? He will say, “Sir, Ihave no dearth of money. My sons are wellsettled in life. My home is full of all types ofcomforts and conveniences. I have everythingin life except peace of mind.” How can oneattain peace of mind? Why are we not able toexperience peace? Where does the mistakelie? We go on asking others, “Who are you”?But we do not ask ourselves, “Who am I”?There lies the mistake. Once we realise whowe really are, we will be free from sorrows anddifficulties. Hence, first and foremost we shouldmake efforts to realise our true identity. Weshould realise our innate divinity. What is theuse of knowing everything without knowing theSelf? Easwara Sarva Bhutanam (God is theindweller of all beings), Isavasyam IdamSarvam (the entire universe is permeated byGod). We must realise that we are born toexperience our innate divinity and not merelyto enjoy worldly pleasures. We have to taketo the path of spirituality to experience ourinnate divinity. If we lack spiritual outlook, wedo not deserve to be called human beings. Infact, it amounts to betrayal of God. God doesnot expect you to worship Him. He expectsyou to lead an ideal and purposeful life. Is itnot a futile exercise to sow seeds when thereis no rain? Even when there is rain, can youreap a harvest unless you have sown seeds?In the same manner, both self-effort and divinegrace are essential to achieve success in yourendeavours.

Once Sage Narada asked Lord Vishnu asto what the royal path to immortality was.

Then Lord Vishnu replied, “One shouldrealise that God is present in all beings.The spark of divinity is present in all.

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Man is not a mere mortal. He is essentiallydivine. Jiva (individual soul) is negative andDeva (God) is positive. Both the positive andnegative are required for the electric currentto flow. Oh Narada! I assume the form of ahuman in order to move among men andprotect the world. I am present in everyone inthe form of the Atma. When man constantlycontemplates on the principle of the Atma, Imanifest Myself.” The same divine principleof the Atma is present in all. One who realisesthis truth experiences all-pervasive divinity.God is in you, with you, around you, aboveyou and below you. However, you cannotrealise this truth unless you give up negativefeelings. God is everywhere. You have not tosearch for Him. Develop firm faith that He is inyou. God has no specific form. He transcendsall names and forms.

Develop Firm Faith in the Oneness ofGod

Embodiments of Love!

Do not identify yourself with the body. Youare the embodiments of the Atma.

The body is made up of five elements andis bound to perish sooner or later, but theindweller has neither birth nor death. Theindweller has no attachment whatsoeverand is the eternal witness. (Telugu Poem)

Can anyone say, “My Atma is dead”? Thephysical body perishes with the passage oftime but the Atma is eternal. So long as thereexists in the body the divine principle of theAtma, it remains alive and functional. One cansee a reflection when there is an object. Forexample, one can see the reflection of the sunin a well, in a tank, in a river and also in anocean. Similarly, the reflection of thesame Atma is seen in all human

beings. The sun is one, but it appears asthough there exists a separate sun for eachcountry. When it is daytime in India, it is nightin America and vice versa. The sun mayappear at different times in different countries,but it is one and the same. We cannot call itas Indian sun, American sun, so on and soforth. Similarly, God is one. Truth is one. Loveis one. Live in love. When you adhere to thetwin principles of truth and love, you willexperience the manifestation of divinity ineverything.

Who is God? In fact, you yourself are God.Hence, everyone should develop the firmconviction, “I am God”. But the basis of thisfirm conviction should not be your ego.Develop firm faith that you are God and your

fellow human beings are also theembodiments of divinity. Develop suchprinciple of oneness and equality.

You are not the body which isbound to perish. You are the Atma

which has neither birth nor death. Ithas no attachment whatsoever. You

will attain immortality once yourealise your true identity. You will

be free from all worries and desires.You may ask, “Is there anyone

without worries and desires”? I amMyself the ideal in this regard. I

have absolutely no desireswhatsoever. Everything is in My

hand. I can give you whatever youask for. However, do not desire

materialistic things from Me.

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When you harm others, you actually harmyourself. Victory and defeat are a part of thegame of life. When someone meets with failurein his endeavour, empathise with him. Do notcriticise or blame others. Differences occurwhen you do not identify yourself with others.

Who are you? You think you are the body.But you are neither the body nor the mind.The body is like a water bubble. How can youidentify yourself with such an ephemeralbody? You may say, “I am the mind”. Mind isnothing but a bundle of desires. It has no formof its own; it takes the form of various desiresof man. One day or the other, you have togive up all desires. Hence, do not identifyyourself with the mind. Man’s mind waversfrom moment to moment like a monkey. Youbelong to mankind. So, you have to conductyourself as a human being. Do not allow yourmind to behave like a monkey. Constantlyremind yourself that you are a human being.Daivam Manusha Rupena (God incarnates inthe form of a human being). Give up bodyconsciousness and live in the constantawareness that you are God.

We construct temples to consecrate idolsand worship them. Where does the idol comefrom? It is your own creation. You offer worshipto the man-made idols but you are notprepared to worship the God in man. There isno point in merely worshipping idols if you donot realise your innate divinity. Everyone mustrespect and revere the principle of the Atmawithin. Consider Atma Viswasa (faith in theSelf) as your Swasa (life-breath). Faith in theidols is temporary. When you go to Tirupati,you worship God in the form of LordVenkateswara. You extol Him saying, “LordVenkateswara is our family deity”. Whenyou make a pilgrimage to Brindavan,

you worship God in the form of Lord Krishna.In Ayodhya, you worship Him in the form ofLord Rama. Depending on the place andcircumstances, different names and formshave been attributed to God. But in realityVenkateswara, Krishna, Rama, Sai Baba, allare one and the same. You should not bedeluded by differences in name and form.Develop firm faith in the oneness of the Atma.Religions are many but the goal is one.

Embodiments of Love!

Having come here after spending a lotof money and putting up with manyinconveniences, you should make proper useof your stay here. Ask yourself whether youhave spent your time in a purposeful manner.What is the use of coming here if you do notput Swami’s teachings into practice? Developunwavering faith in the oneness of divinity.Only then can you experience peace. So longas you do not contemplate on the oneness ofGod, you will remain unsteady and restless.

Desires are the Cause of Man’s Delusion

There are two words, good and bad.Though these are articulated differently, thesound that constitutes them is the same. Youcriticise someone as a bad person today andextol him as a good person tomorrow. Goodand bad are related to your own thinking. Yourmind is the cause for both. In reality, man isalways good. Human life is highly sacred.Do not belittle yourself by thinking that you area mere mortal. You are verily God Himself.The very fact that you portray God in ahuman form and worship Him proves thathuman being is essentially divine. Do not

attach undue importance to names andforms. Understand your inherentprinciple of divinity.

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Born as a human being, you should imbibehuman qualities. Have a human mind, not amonkey mind. What is the use of taking birthas a human being if you conduct yourself likean animal? However, you need not give upeverything and become a Sannyasi(renunciant). A Sannyasi is also a

human being. See God in everyone. God isall-pervasive. You cannot say that God isconfined to a particular place. There is no placewhere God does not exist. SarvatahPanipadam Tat Sarvathokshi Siromukham,Sarvatah Sruthimalloke SarvamavruthyaTishthati (with hands, feet, eyes, head, mouthand ears pervading everything, God permeatesthe entire universe).

We cultivate paddy. However, we do notconsume it in its raw form. We remove thehusk covering the grain and refine it into rice.Our desires are like the husk covering the ricegrain. We will be free from the cycle of birthand death once we give up all desires. Paddybecomes suitable for consumption only afterit undergoes the process of refinement andbecomes rice. Rice is used for making various

preparations such as Pulihora, Chitrannam,Chakkera Pongali, Payasam, etc. Riceflour is used for preparing Idli and

The sun is one, but it appears asthough there exists a separate sun

for each country. When it is daytimein India, it is night in America andvice versa. The sun may appear at

different times in different countries,but it is one and the same. We

cannot call it as Indian sun,American sun, so on and so forth.Similarly, God is one. Truth is one.

Love is one. Live in love. When youadhere to the twin principles of truth

and love, you will experience themanifestation of divinity in

everything.

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Dosa. The names of these food items mayvary, but the essential ingredient of rice is thesame in all. Just as paddy is transformed intorice, our mind should also be purified throughthe process of Samskara (refinement).Everything needs Samskara. Samskara in theprocess of cooking makes food fit forconsumption. The shape of an object maychange but the fundamental principle remainschangeless.

Embodiments of Love!

You have a pure and sacred heart but itgets covered by the clouds of your desires.Just as the sun and the moon are not visibleto us when they are covered by clouds, weare unable to visualise our reality because ofdelusion. Man passes his childhood in playwith his playmates. In youth, he is deluded byego as he feels proud of his youth. As the endapproaches, he regrets for not having attainedpeace of mind because he kept hankering afterworldly pleasures. Man passes throughvarious stages in life such as childhood, youth,middle age and old age. However, there is notransformation in him with the advancementof age. Instead of trying to change the Srishti(creation), man should change his Drishti(outlook). We can see the reality only whenwe change our Drishti. There is nothing wrongwith Srishti. God’s creation is perfect and nonehas the power to change it. In the creation,everything happens by the Will of God. Youare deluded because of your materialisticoutlook. You have to change your outlook. Donot expect God to change the creation. He hasgiven you everything in its pristine form. Butyou are polluting it because of your selfishdesires. The mind is the root cause for allthis. Hence, annihilate the mind andeverything will be clear to you.

So long as one is endowed with physicalstrength and vigour, one may enjoy Atalu,Patalu (playing and singing). As the ageadvances, the physical body undergoescertain changes. All of you are aware what agreat singer M.S. Subbulakshmi was.However, she could not sing when she grewold. When she mentioned this to Me, I told herthat she had overused her faculty of singingand thereby damaged her throat, and that wasthe reason for her predicament. One shouldnot put one’s faculties to too much strain. Yourvoice and vision are bound to change with thepassage of time. You suffer from unrest andanxiety because you rely on your physicalbody that is subject to change. Instead, relyon the changeless and eternal principle of theAtma.

Man invites troubles in life by his owndefects. If we improve our conduct, our life willbecome free from troubles. So, first andforemost we should take to the path ofrighteousness. It is not food and drink that isimportant in life. Character is most important.If you lack character, you will have to faceinnumerable difficulties.

Divinity is referred to as Sath, which meanschangeless and eternal principle. People ofdifferent religions call it by different names.The Muslims extol God, saying, Allah Ho Akbar(God is great). They consider God as their solerefuge. Whether one is a Muslim or a Hindu,God is the only refuge for all! So, you shouldsay emphatically, “I want God”. Get immersedin the Divine, not in deep wine! Once you startchanting the Divine Name of Rama, you shouldcontinue it for the rest of your life. But these

days man has become fickle-minded. Oneday he keeps the picture of Rama in hisaltar and starts worshipping Him, but

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the very next day he replaces Rama’s picturewith that of Krishna if his wishes are notfulfilled.

Develop One-pointed Devotion

Once there lived a devotee who used toworship Lord Siva and chanted “Om NamahSivaya”. But after some time, he felt thatworship of Lord Siva had not benefited him inany way. Hence, he put Siva’s picture in thealmirah and kept Rama’s picture in the altar.Initially, he could experience some peace.However, his desires remained unfulfilled andhe became restless. He kept Rama’s picturealso in the same almirah and startedworshipping Krishna on the advice of his Guru.He kept on chanting “Gopala Krishna”incessantly. After some time, he felt that evenKrishna had not done him any good. One day,a lady devotee came to him and said, “Whatis the use of worshipping Rama and Krishna?Better you do Devi Puja (worship of DivineMother).” As per her advice, he kept a pictureof Devi in the altar and started worshipping it.As the Puja was in progress, he noticed thatthe fragrance from the incense sticks waswafting towards the almirah where the picturesof other deities were kept. He thereforedecided to remove those pictures from thealmirah, thinking that the incense sticks weremeant for the goddess and that the otherdeities had no right to enjoy the fragrance.Immediately, the Divine Mother manifestedbefore him and said, “Oh simpleton! Youworshipped Siva for a few days, and then youswitched over to Rama and later on to Krishna.What is the guarantee that you will not discardmy picture also tomorrow? This is not truedevotion. You should contemplate on onename and one form till your lastbreath.”

You should remain unperturbed bydifficulties and lead a spiritual life. Fill yourheart with sacred feelings. Only then will yourlife be redeemed. If you want to progress inlife, never forget the name of God. Do notdivert your mind from one name to another.Let your mind be focused on one name andone form. Manah Eva ManushyanamKaranam Bandhamokshayo (mind is thecause for bondage and liberation of man).The mind wavers because of the desires youentertain. Hence, you will attain peace onlywhen you give up desires. Mere performanceof acts of charity will not confer peace on you.Offer yourself to God with single-mindeddevotion. Only then can you attain peace andhappiness. Control your desires. Control yourthoughts. Once you control your thoughts, theneverything will come under your control. Youare endowed with the eternal principles of truthand love. Sathyannasti Paro Dharma (Thereis no Dharma greater than adherence to truth).Considering truth as the basis of your life,follow the path of righteousness. Then theprinciple of love will manifest in you. When youhave love, you will be successful in all yourendeavours.

Embodiments of Atma!

You are all Atmaswarupa (embodiment ofthe Self). You are not the body which is boundto perish. You are the Atma which hasneither birth nor death. It has no attachmentwhatsoever. You will attain immortality onceyou realise your true identity. You will be freefrom all worries and desires. You may ask, “Isthere anyone without worries and desires”? Iam Myself the ideal in this regard. I have

absolutely no desires whatsoever.Everything is in My hand. I can giveyou whatever you ask for. However,

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do not desire materialistic things fromMe. They are transient like passing clouds.Ask for that which is eternal. The entire worldis sustained by the twin principles of truth andlove. They are present in everyone. I am thetruth that is present in all. I am the love that ispresent in all. Truth and love are all-pervasive.However, you are not making efforts toexperience truth and love. Therefore, developtruth and love more and more.

Make Love the Basis of your Life

Embodiments of Love!

Today you may be occupying positions ofpower, but how long can you remain in power?It is only temporary. Only divinity is everlasting.You have chosen the path of truth. Neverdeviate from it. Never forget the principle oftruth you have experienced. You may forgetanything in life but never forget truth and love.Truth is Bahirvahini (external flow) and love isAntarvahini (internal flow). Both of them haveto be protected and sustained. That is the dutyof a human being. Bereft of truth and love,one does not deserve to be called a humanbeing at all.

Embodiments of Love!

Let your life be filled with love. Do not confineyour love to your family and friends. Share itwith one and all. Whomsoever you comeacross, consider him as the embodiment ofdivinity. Share your love with your fellowhuman beings and become the recipient oftheir love. Follow the path of truth. I alwaysteach the principles of truth and love.Congregations like this are meant only to exhortyou to adhere to the path of truth and love. All

of you have gathered here out of your love forMe. I am happy that all of you have come hereto listen to My Message, the quintessence ofwhich is truth and love. If you practise truthand love in your daily life, that will make Mevery happy. Do not allow your love to be taintedwith worldly feelings. Let it flow incessantlytowards God. This was the ideal demonstratedby Radha. She was always immersed in thethoughts of Krishna and her name itselfconveys her greatness and sacredness. If youchange the order of the letters of the name ofRadha, you get Dhara (Prakriti or Nature).Radha symbolised Dhara. Krishna isParamatma (God). Prakriti is a part ofParamatma; they are inseparable. Radhaknew only Krishna and none else. She wastotally immersed in the love of Krishna. Krishnawas the Adhar (basis) of her life. It is becauseof such one-pointed devotion that she couldattain liberation. One who aspires to attainliberation should follow the path of love asdemonstrated by Radha.

Embodiments of Love!

I do not want to cause inconvenience toyou by speaking at length. Hence, I bring MyDiscourse to a close. Consider whatever workyou do as God’s work. See God everywhere. Iwill be happy when you develop such divinefeelings. So many people have assembledhere. I confer on you the sacred wealth of Mylove and bliss. May all of you lead a long,happy, healthy and peaceful life!

– From Bhagavan’s Birthday Message inSri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium, PrasanthiNilayam on 23rd November 2005.

All rivers finally merge in the ocean. So too all branches of knowledge culminate in the

ocean of spiritual wisdom (Adhyatma Vidya). – Baba

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RASANTHI NILAYAM IS Awitness to many glorious events inthe past. But the grand function

on 23rd November 2005, the day of 80th yearof the Advent of Kali Yuga Avatar BhagavanSri Sathya Sai Baba, was unparalleled andunique both for its magnificence andmagnitude. Lakhs of people of all cultures andnationalities from as many as 180 countriesof the world congregated at Prasanthi Nilayamto offer their homage to Bhagavan and to prayfor unity, peace and harmony in the world. Itwas, in fact, a rare spectacle of unity ofmankind brought about by the Divine Love ofBhagavan. The entire Prasanthi Nilayam andPuttaparthi bore a festive look on this greatand historic occasion. Huge portraits ofBhagavan, grand welcome arches andcharming decorations with flowers andplantain leaves turned it into a

dreamland of exquisite beauty and splendour.The abode of Bhagavan in Poornachandrawas specially decorated with beautiful garlandsand floral patterns. The entire route ofBhagavan from His abode in Poornachandrato Hill View Stadium was lined with welcomearches and series of beautiful lights.

The most glorious event of all times to comewas witnessed on the morning of 23rdNovember 2005. The venue of this grandcelebration was Sri Sathya Sai Hill ViewStadium. Much before Bhagavan’s arrival, allits galleries were full to their capacity withdevotees eager to have a glimpse of theirBeloved Bhagavan on this auspicious morning.The entire Hill View Stadium was majesticallydecorated to offer a befitting welcome to

Bhagavan. The flags of all countries of theworld and garlands of white and pinkballoons decorated the entire railings

Sri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium, Prasanthi Nilayam on 23rd November 2005.

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YEAR OF ADVENTYEAR OF ADVENTYEAR OF ADVENT

SRI SATHYA SAI AVATARSRI SATHYA SAI AVATARSRI SATHYA SAI AVATAR

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on top of stadium galleries. Thepassage from the stadium toHanuman hilltop was similarlydecorated with pillars of pink andwhite balloons. A beautiful stagewas specially made for culturalprogrammes on the western side ofthe stadium, which displayed “SriSathya Sai Avatar: 80th Year ofAdvent” with a beautiful lotus in thecentre. Two giant screens, one onthe top of the cricket pavilion and theother on the ladies galleries side,were set up to provide live projectionof the proceedings to the devotees. SanthiVedika, from where Bhagavan was to showerthe bliss of His Divine Darshan to devotees,was profusely and artistically decorated withgarlands of flowers.

Scintillating Morning Function andBhagavan’s Birthday Message

On the morning of 23rd November 2005,the sky was overcast with clouds and rain godwas offering its tribute to Bhagavan in the formof a light drizzle. All eyes were on the northernend of the stadium from where Bhagavan wasto come in a grand procession. At 7.45 a.m.,there was bustle in the air as Bhagavan’sprocession entered the stadium. Theprocession was led by Bhagavan’s belovedelephant Sai Geeta in its rich finery. It wasfollowed by a group of Veda chanting studentsand a dance troupe. Then came Bhagavan inan open car in His sparkling whiterobe showering the bliss of His DivineDarshan on the mammoth gathering in theHill View Stadium. A melodious song on thepublic address system “Ananda BarasaoHey Mangal Dayee …” (Oh Lord ofauspiciousness! Shower bliss on all),

colourful balloons released in the sky, flowerrockets filling the entire stadium and sound ofcrackers fired in the sky from the adjoiningcollege ground offered joyous welcome toBhagavan. On reaching Santhi Vedika,Bhagavan sat on a beautiful silver throneplaced in the centre of the exquisitelydecorated Santhi Vedika.

The cultural programme started on themagnificent stage put up in the western endof the stadium. At the outset, a group of girlsoffered obeisance to Bhagavan in their artisticdance to the tune of a melodious song.Thereafter, Telugu movie star Sai Kumar andcricket legend Sunil Gavaskar offered theirtributes to Bhagavan and started comperingthe programme. Simultaneously, contingentsof many nations of the world marched on theroad in front of Santhi Vedika and offered theirsalutations to Bhagavan and performed acultural item each of their country.

Sunil Gavaskar introduced the cricketers ofthe Indian team and Lt. Col. Rajyavardhan

Singh Rathore, silver medallist in 2004Olympics, to Bhagavan at SanthiVedika. After seeking blessings from

Many magnificent cultural programmes were performed onthe beautiful stage set up in the Hill View Stadium.

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Bhagavan, Lt. Col. Rathore took the globalpeace insignia towards Hanuman hill. As theinsignia went up on the hilltop, a giant screenrolled down along the hill slope with themessage: “May there be Peace, Unity andLove in the World”. After this, many top artistescame on the stage and made theirpresentations. Beautiful songs: “SwagatamSuswagatam …”, “Narayan Roop NamoNamah …”, “Sai Ram Sathya Sai Ram”reverberated the entire Hill View Stadium.

After these musical tributes to Bhagavan,two eminent speakers addressed the hugegathering and paid their homage to Bhagavan.The first speaker was Sri Indulal Shah,International Advisor to Prasanthi Council. SriShah offered salutations to Bhagavan on hisbehalf and on behalf of millions of devoteesin all parts of the world who, he said, werepouring out their hearts filled with love on thishistoric moment of 80th Birthday of Bhagavan.Bhagavan, the learned speaker said, hadushered in an era of love, peace and unityand had made Prasanthi Nilayam the spiritualcapital of the world. The second speaker wasDr. Michael Goldstein, Chairman, PrasanthiCouncil. Referring to Bhagavan as fathomless,never-ending divine love, Dr. Goldsteinobserved that it was our great good fortuneto be here on earth when God has incarnatedin human form to transform mankind. Stressingthe need for spiritual growth of man, thelearned speaker said that man should followthe teachings of Bhagavan and redeem hislife by making the light of selfless love shinein his heart.

After this, Bhagavan gave His DivineMessage, exhorting all to serve theirfellowmen and redeem their life. (Fulltext of Bhagavan’s Discourse has been

given elsewhere in this issue.) At the end ofHis Discourse, Bhagavan graciously cut thecake and lighted a candle on it. While thefireworks were fired in the sky, a beautiful songin celebration of Bhagavan’s Birthday “ShubhaJanam Din …” was played on the P.A. system.

The dignitaries who came to offer theirtributes to Bhagavan on this sacred occasionincluded Governor of Karnataka, Sri T.N.Chaturvedi, Governor of Andhra Pradesh, SriSushilkumar Shinde, Chief Minister ofMaharashtra, Sri Vilasrao Deshmukh, formerChief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Sri N.Chandrababu Naidu, Finance Minister ofAndhra Pradesh, Sri K. Rosaiah, Minister ofTourism and Sugar, Andhra Pradesh, Smt. J.Geeta Reddy and cricketers V.V.S. Laxman,Murali Karthik, R.P. Singh, J.P. Yadav, YuvrajSingh, Suresh Raina, Sreeshant and SachinTendulkar. After the conclusion of the function,Bhagavan blessed the Laddu Prasadam fordistribution to all devotees and gavePrasadam to cricketers, Lt. Col. Rathore anda few other devotees with His Divine Hands.This glorious function came to a close with Aratito Bhagavan at 10.10 a.m.

Cultural Programmes and Fireworks inthe Evening

The grand celebration of Bhagavan’s80th Birthday continued on the evening of23rd November 2005. Bhagavan came to HillView Stadium at 4.40 p.m. in a colourfulprocession which included performingartistes of different States of India andseveral band troupes. The dance troupes thatformed part of this magnificent procession

were folk dancers of Tamil Nadu, Garbadancers of Gujarat, folk dancers ofOrissa, folk dancers of Maharashtra

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and Kavadi dancers of Kerala. After the folkdancers came the Nadaswaram and bandtroupes of Anantapur Campus, bandtroupes of Sri Sathya Sai Primary Schoolfollowed by brass band of Sri Sathya SaiInstitute of Higher Learning, PrasanthiNilayam. In the rear of this procession werePrimary School students performing Bhangradance. While this colourful procession withvibrant dance and music moved towardsSanthi Vedika, a sweet Telugu song, “PuttinaRoju Sai Puttina Roju,Sathyam Dharmam,Santhi Premalaku Panduga Roju, HappyBirthday to You Bhagavan Sri Sai Ram”(Bhagavan’s Birthday is the day of grandfestivity to glorify Sathya, Dharma, Santhiand Prema) was played on the P.A.system to the delight of the mammothgathering. Bhagavan arrived at the SanthiVedika in this grand procession at 5.00 p.m.and sat in a beautiful chair with a grand silvercanopy overhead. Words fail to describe theglory and majesty of Bhagavan when Heshowered the bliss of His Darshan on themammoth gathering of devotees from SanthiVedika in His sparkling yellow robe.

Soon after this, culturalprogramme began on thebrightly lit giant stage. The firstto offer their musical tribute wereSantoor maestro Pandit ShivKumar Sharma and his sonRahul Sharma. They presentedt w o i t e m s . T h e f i r s t i t e mwas “Celebrations”, a joyouscomposition to celebrate thisauspicious occasion. After this,they presented a fascinatingcomposition “Baba We LoveYou”, paying their homage to

Bhagavan. After this scintillating performance,

Performing artistes of different States of India leading thecolourful procession on the evening of 23rd November 2005.

Bhagavan showering the bliss of His DivineDarshan from Santhi Vedika on themammoth gathering of devotees inSri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium.

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famous Sarod maestro Amjad Ali Khanmade a captivating presentation along withhis sons Amaan Ali Bangash, Ayaan AliBangash and his wife Subhalakshmi. Thefirst composition presented by them wasentitled “Truth” which had beens p e c i a l l y c o m p o s e d f o rB h a g a v a n ’ s B i r t h d a y . T h esecond composition “RaghupatiR a g h a v R a j a R a m ” w a salso very well received bythe audience. The next artistewas famous Hindustani classicalvocalist Begum Parveen Sultana,who rejoiced the audience withthree devotional songs in hermellifluous voice.

A s t h i s m a g n i f i c e n tpresentation concluded, stadiumlights became dim and alldecorative lights were switchedon. Most spectacular sight was onthe Hanuman hilltop wherebeautiful coconut trees made of light startedshining. Administrative building of the Instituteand Museum on the adjoining hill wereilluminated with colours that kept changingcreating a fascinating spectacle. Then at 6.10p.m. began the dazzling laser light show.Green laser beams of light emanated fromthe top of the giant stage and stretched outup to the sky creating beautiful patterns andshapes. The laser show was accompaniedby high decibel music, enchanting andcaptivating one and all.

After this laser show, cultural programmescommenced again on the stage. It was nowthe turn of renowned singer Smt. KavitaKrishnamurthy and her husband Dr. L.Subramaniam to enthrall the devoteeswith their presentation. The first item

of the presentation was “Vatapi GanapatimBhajeham” on the violin by Dr. Subramaniam.This was followed by a song speciallycomposed for the 80th Birthday of Bhagavanin which 80 Institute students took part along

with Smt. Kavita Krishnamurthy who led thesong: “We Seek Your Blessings Bhagavan SriSathya Sai Baba, You are the Guiding Light”.Next to perform was renowned westernclassical vocalist Dana Gillespie who presentedtwo songs in her inimitable style. They were:“What can I give to the One who haseverything, who holds the whole world in thepalm of His hand? …” and “With the lamp oflove you’ll never be in darkness if you hold itnear, it’ll take you far …”

This musical presentation concluded atabout 7.00 p.m. and laser light show beganonce again. But this time, it synchronised withanother grand show of spectacular fireworks

in the sky. The dazzle of the streaks oflaser lights, the clusters of colourfulsparks of the fireworks coupled with

A beautiful song specially composed for the 80th Birthday ofBhagavan being presented in which 80 students

of the Institute took part.

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Spectacular display of fireworks on 23rd November 2005.

loud music turned the Hill View Stadium intoan enchanting land. This marvellous showlasted nearly 15 minutes, gripping the attention

of one and all. The last item of thecultural programme was presentedby Ms. Richa Sharma who sang aBhajan in her unique style. Thisunique display of lights, music,dances and fireworks concludedat 7.20 p.m. when Bhagavan wasoffered Mangalarati. As Bhagavan’scar left Santhi Vedika, anotherbeautiful song was played on theP.A. system “Aashayen Mile DilKi, Ummeeden Haseen Dil Ki …” (Allthe hopes and desires of my heartare fulfilled), which concurred with

the feelings of the masses who had had alltheir life’s wishes fulfilled on this sacred andauspicious day.

SRI SATHYA SAI INSTITUTE OF HIGHER LEARNING (Deemed University accredited by NAAC at A++ level)

Vidyagiri, Prasanthi Nilayam-515134, Anantapur Dist., Andhra Pradesh, India

Ph: (08555) 287239, 287191 www.srisathyasai.org.in/sssihl.org E-mail: sssihl@hotmail.com

Sathya Sai Mirpuri College of Music

Admission NoticeSri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning offers the following courses under the auspices of the SathyaSai Mirpuri College of Music in Prasanthi Nilayam (for boys). The admissions will be made for theAcademic Year commencing from June 2006.

FULL-TIME COURSES1) FOUNDATION COURSE - Duration: 2 years: (Carnatic, Hindustani) Vocal, Veena, Mridangam, Sitar, and Tabla. ELIGIBILITY: Candidates should have passed 7th Standard of study, and be 13 to 20 years of age.

2) DIPLOMA COURSE - Duration: 3 years: (Carnatic, Hindustani) Vocal, Veena, Mridangam, Sitar, and Tabla. ELIGIBILITY: Candidates should have passed 10th Standard of study and also a Course inMusic equivalent to the Foundation Course from any recognised College / Institution, and be 16to 23 years of age.

Application forms will be available from 1st December 2005 to 28th February 2006.

Admission to the above Courses will be on the basis of Admission Test and Interview which will beheld in May 2006, at Prasanthi Nilayam, Andhra Pradesh.

Interested candidates may apply to the Registrar, Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, PrasanthiNilayam - 515 134, Anantapur Dist., A.P. along with Indian Postal Order or Bank Draft for Rs.50/- drawnin favour of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, payable at Prasanthi Nilayam / Puttaparthi.The name, postal address and phone number of the candidate should clearly be mentioned in therequisition letter.

407 December 2005

Registrar

BHAGAVAN’S BENEDICTORY ADDRESS:24th CONVOCATION OF SSSIHL

TRUTH AND RIGHTEOUSNESS ARE THE

FOUNDATION OF TRUE EDUCATION

Students – Boys and Girls!

HERE IS NOTHING MUCH TO BEsaid about education. Buteducation has a goal. That

is truth. If it does not give theknowledge of truth, then it is nottrue education. There are crores(hundreds of millions) of so-callededucated people in the world today.But, what is it that they are doing?They have no spirit of Paropakara(doing good to others) in them.

Modern Education DevelopsSelfishness

Nevertheless, students areengaged in acquiring education. Theeducation that they acquire is onlysecular education and not spiritualeducation. In fact, only spiritualeducation is true education. Oneshould acquire spiritual educationsince it gives the knowledge of God.Secular education merely enables aperson to eke out a living and therebymaintain himself and his family. Theend of education is character. Devoidof character, everything else isuseless. Unfortunately, today we havedistanced ourselves from this sacredgoal of education. Of what use is it toacquire such an education whichdoes not help one to attain its goal?Modern education enables one to

acquire merely worldly gains. But fulfillingone’s physical requirements is not the be-alland end-all of education. Besides catering to

TT

Truth and righteousness are the foundationof character. Sathyannasti Paro Dharma

(There is no Dharma greater than adherenceto truth). The mansion of righteousness

rests on the foundation of truth. If the veryfoundation of truth collapses, there can be

no righteousness. Hence, truth andrighteousness are the two most importantlimbs of a human being. Where there are

truth and righteousness, there lovemanifests. Without truth, righteousness

and love, there can be no peace.

GURUDEV VANI

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one’s worldly progress, it should help one toattain inner growth. Education should enableone to cultivate good qualities, character anddevotion. There should be balance betweenworldly progress and inner growth. Thereshould be unity between one’s thoughts andactions. Only when there is unity can onerealise divinity.

Modern education develops selfishnessand selfishness alone. True education is thatwhich fosters selflessness. True educationdoes not limit one to serve only one’s selfishends; it elevates one to serve others.Paropakara Punyaya, Papaya Parapeedanam(one attains merit by serving others andcommits sin by harming them). Wherever yousee today, you find only selfishness. Theforemost concern of man is self-interest. Buthe forgets his real Self. That is the Atma whichis present in everyone. It is Chaitanya Shakti(power of consciousness). This ChaitanyaShakti is present in every being. That is why,the Vedas declare: Easwara Sarva Bhutanam(God is the indweller of all beings). One shouldgive up one’s self-interest and strive to realisethe Atma Tattwa (principle of the Self). Moderneducation is steeped in utter selfishness. It isonly when man transcends his self-interest canhe acquire true education and purity of heart.Only man can practise selflessness and realisethe Atma Tattwa; birds, beasts and animalscannot do so. One who helps others selflessly,develops a spirit of sacrifice and realises theSelf can be called a human being in the truesense of the term; not merely by acquiringsecular education.

Acquire Education which DevelopsCharacter

Man has value only when he isendowed with character. One without

character cannot be called a human being.Hence, acquire that education which developscharacter. Education is not meant to fill ourpackets with money. After all, what can moneydo? In what way can it help us? It may perhapshelp us to acquire name and fame and buildpalatial buildings. But without character, all thisamounts to zero. Unfortunately, such peopleare flourishing in the world today. In fact, aperson without character is unfit to be calleda human being. He is verily an animal. Evenan animal is better than such a person, for ithas a reason and a season. But man todayhas no reason and no season! He moves abouteverywhere as an epitome of selfishness.

Once selfishness enters man’s life, hisdegeneration starts immediately. Character ismost important in the life of man. Truth andrighteousness are the foundation ofcharacter. Sathyannasti Paro Dharma (Thereis no Dharma greater than adherence totruth). The mansion of righteousness restson the foundation of truth. If the veryfoundation of truth collapses, there can beno righteousness. Hence, truth andrighteousness are the two most importantlimbs of a human being. Where there are truthand righteousness, there love manifests.Without truth, righteousness and love, therecan be no peace. And there is little use of yourpositions of power and authority if you arewithout truth, righteousness, love and peace.

Many people complain, “I have everythingin life, but I have no peace of mind”. A personwithout peace of mind is confronted withtroubles from all sides. If only he has peace ofmind, he can be happy in the world. He willhave no difficulties at all! In fact, man has great

accumulated merits. It is because of thesemerits earned by him in his previouslives through the observance of truth

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and righteousness that he gets human birth.Without truth and righteousness, man loseshis humanness. He degenerates himself to thelevel of a demon or an animal. The word‘Manava’ (man) consists of three letters: ‘ma’,‘na’, ‘va’. ‘Ma’ means attachment, ‘na’ meanswithout and ‘va’ means to conduct oneself.One who conducts himself in the world withoutattachment is Manava. Only such a person canbe called a real human being. How does mandevelop attachment? He marries, begetschildren, develops a family; all theserelationships become the cause of hisattachment. He loses peace on account ofattachment.

Man today has everything – good food toeat, various means of enjoyment, facility ofcomfortable travel, but he has no peace. Manshould attain freedom from the bondage ofattachment to have peace of mind. DevelopEkatma Bhava (feeling of oneness with God).If man develops Ekatma Bhava, he can moveabout freely in the world without anyattachment whatsoever. He loses his freedomand becomes bound when he developsdesires, lust, etc. Where there is lust, lovecannot exist there. Man should spread thefragrance of love and goodness like a roseflower which spreads fragrance. When mandevelops good thoughts and good behaviour,he will become a symbol of goodness. Withoutlove and goodness, man develops attachment.Happiness lies in detachment. Detachmenthowever does not mean that you becomeindifferent to the difficulties of others. Helpeverybody; be compassionate towards thepoor. If you have love and compassion, youare a true human being.

What is True Renunciation?

During his debating tour of northIndia, Adi Sankara met a great scholar

named Mandana Mishra. He had a wife byname Ubhayabharati. She was selected to bethe arbitrator and judge to decide the winnerin the debate between Sankara and MandanaMishra. In fact, Sankara himself suggestedher name as he considered her most truthfuland impartial despite being the wife of hiscompetitor, Mandana Mishra. She consideredtruth as God and was therefore eminentlysuited for the assignment. The debatebetween Sankara and Mandana Mishracommenced in the presence of Ubhayabharati.She listened to the arguments and counterarguments with rapt attention. Finally, Sankaradefeated Mandana Mishra in the debate andhe was declared the winner by Ubhayabharati.As per the conditions of the debate, MandanaMishra had to take to Sannyas (renunciation),and he did accordingly. As a dutiful wife,Ubhayabharati followed suit and she also

became a renunciant. A question may arisehere as to what is Sannyas in the realsense of the term. It is renouncing of

Man has value only when he isendowed with character. Onewithout character cannot be

called a human being. Hence,acquire that education which

develops character. Education isnot meant to fill our packets withmoney. After all, what can moneydo? In what way can it help us?

It may perhaps help us toacquire name and fame andbuild palatial buildings. But

without character, all thisamounts to zero.

December 2005 410

all desires. As long as a person entertainsdesires, he will only be a Samsari (worldlyperson). He will develop worldly relationships.He will desire to have a son in the firstinstance. Thereafter, the whole retinue ofdaughter-in-law, grandsons, granddaughters,etc., will follow.

One day, Ubhayabharati was going alongwith her disciples to the river Ganga for takingbath in the river. On the way, she observed aSannyasi who was relaxing, keeping a driedbottle gourd under his head. He was usingthis for storing drinking water, and hence hewas preserving it carefully. Ubhayabharati sawthis Sannyasi’s attachment to the bottle gourd

and said to her disciples, “Look! This man callshimself a Sannyasi, but he is attached to abottle gourd which he is keeping under hishead as a pillow.” The Sannyasi heard thiscomment, but did not utter anything then.While Ubhayabharati and her discipleswere returning from the river, he threw awaythe bottle gourd in front of them in orderto demonstrate that he was notattached to it. Observing his action,

Ubhayabharati aptly remarked, “I thoughtthere was only one defect in him – Abhimana(attachment). Now I realise that he hasanother defect also – Ahamkara (ego). Howcan one with Abhimana and Ahamkarabecome a Jnani and Sannyasi?” Her commentwas an eye-opener for the Sannyasi. Heexpressed gratitude to Ubhayabharati forimparting true knowledge of renunciation tohim.

Your Company Influences your Thoughtsand Conduct

People today put up a show as though theyhave renounced everything. In fact, it is theywho crave for worldly possessions. Students

should have only one desire. That isBrahmacharya (celibacy, purity). That is realrenunciation. When you come here, you pray,“Swami! We don’t want anything. We haveno desires like marriage, setting up afamily or building a house, etc. Please leadus on the path of devotion and liberation.”But the moment you cross the boundary of

the Institute, umpteen number ofdesires swarm around you likehoney bees.

Modern education enables one toacquire merely worldly gains. But

fulfilling one’s physical requirementsis not the be-all and end-all of

education. Besides catering to one’sworldly progress, it should help one

to attain inner growth. Educationshould enable one to cultivate good

qualities, character and devotion.

411 December 2005

Man’s behaviour is influenced by manyfactors, like Sthanabala (power of place),Bhujabala (power of physical body),Dhanabala (power of wealth) and Daivabala(power of divinity). The Ramayana illustrateshow Sthanabala influences the thinking ofman. While going in the forest, Rama andLakshmana sat under a tree. Immediatelyafterwards, Lakshmana told Rama that hewas tired of living in the forest and would liketo go back to Ayodhya as quickly as possibleto have a more comfortable living. Ramasmiled at him and said, “Let us proceed further,I shall explain everything later.” How didLakshmana who previously had declared thatRama was everything to him and that he wouldnot live without Rama even for a momentsuddenly develop this attitude? How did thisconcern for bodily comfort arise in himsuddenly? After they walked some distance,Lakshmana felt the pangs of repentance forhis impertinent behaviour. He realised hismistake, caught hold of Rama’s feet and said,“Rama! Forgive me for what I had said. Icannot understand how these evil thoughtsentered me. What could be the reason?”Rama explained, “Lakshmana! The regionthrough which we passed just now was thehaunt of a demoness. She used to rest underthat tree. Hence, the place is infected with allher devilish qualities. The vibrations of thoseevil qualities aroused bad thoughts in you.The moment you came out of that place, youbecame your normal self again. Your inherentgood nature asserted itself.” Thus, one’sassociation with a particular place also has itseffect on one’s behaviour. Thereafter, Ramawas cautious about the place of their stay inthe forest.

Similarly, the type of people youassociate with also influence your

thoughts and behaviour. Youngsters oftenmove in bad company and cultivate badqualities. This is not correct. They shouldalways make friendship with good people andemulate their qualities. Never have anythingto do with a person of evil qualities. Keepyourself at a distance from such people. Thegreat epic Ramayana is replete with exampleshow association with good people results indeveloping noble qualities. Adi Sankara in“Bhaja Govindam” very graphically describeshow Satsanga (good company) can ultimatelylead one to liberation:

Satsangatwe Nissangatwam,

Nissangatwe Nirmohatwam,

Nirmohatwe Nischalatattwam,

Nischalatattwe Jivanmukti.

(Sanskrit Sloka)

(Good company leads to detachment;detachment makes one free from delusion;freedom from delusion leads to steadiness ofmind; steadiness of mind confers liberation.)

Today, people move about in bad companyand ultimately ruin themselves. This is theeffect of Kali Yuga, which is often referred toas the Kalaha Yuga (the Age of conflict). Manby nature is divine; but turns evil on accountof Dussanga (evil company). That is thereason why sages and seers in ancient timesconstantly strove to cultivate noble qualitiesby Satsanga.

Today, bad books are found everywhere.Wherever you see, you will find people,especially youngsters, reading bad books thatpollute their minds. You might have observedyoungsters visiting libraries invariably on

Sundays and holidays. You often find themengaged in deep study. What sort ofbooks do they read? They read bad

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books camouflaged in a good cover. Once youremove the cover and look into the book,everything is trash including the pictures. Youwill have to be very strict with such students.No one can be taken for granted. They speaksweet words outwardly as though they are veryinnocent. But they surreptitiously engagethemselves in bad activities. They search forbad books and read them with absorbinginterest. Those bad books are very exciting tothe young minds. People who write bad booksand tempt youngsters to read them do not thinkabout the bad effect they will have on theirminds. Thus, youngsters spoil themselves onaccount of bad books. No force on earth canchange such boys; not even God.

Unless one introspects into one’s behaviourand strives for transformation, one continuesto move about in bad company. One is a truedevotee if one recognises one’s faults. One’scharacter and conduct are of paramountimportance. If they are taken care of, one issure of treading the right path. There is nouse acquiring high academic degrees with aview to earn high salary and position. Howlong will they last? On the other hand, it ispossible that they may land one in trouble.Money earned by bad means will be spent forbad purposes. Yad Bhavam Tad Bhavati (asis the feeling, so is the result). So, one shouldcultivate noble thoughts and feelings.

Students should Inculcate GoodQualities

One has to read good books that transformthe heart and uplift the soul. Unlike thestudents in the Gurukula system of ancienttimes, modern students indulge in badbehaviour. In spite of great efforts on thepart of teachers to bring about atransformation in them, they continue

with their bad qualities. It is not surprising tosee students assaulting their teachers ineducational institutions today. There arestudents who even betray those who actuallyprovide for their living. There are also studentswho do not hesitate to harm those who helpthem. Such are the qualities of the present-day students. They do not appreciate the roleplayed by their teachers in their uplift.

What are the qualities expected of astudent? A student should have good intellect,good character, adherence to truth, devotion,discipline and duty. Only those students whocultivate such qualities are eligible to be calledstudents in the real sense. One who actsagainst these principles is not a student, but astupid. You should not associate with such aperson nor should you call him a stupid. Donot have any relationship with such persons.You should hold on to your own good qualitieswhich can earn you appreciation in the world.

Love all. In fact, love is the most importantaspect of education. One who teaches themethod by which man can cultivate selflesslove is the real Guru. There are, of course,many such teachers. I have established SriSathya Sai educational institutions only with aview to inculcate love and good qualities instudents. It is not an exaggeration to say thatthere is not a single bad book in our library.Our students are very good. They do not atall move in bad company. Even when they gohome during vacation, they do not like to staythere for long. Sometimes, their mothers maysay, “My dear! You stayed for one full year inBrindavan or Puttaparthi. You never had anopportunity to eat tasty and spicy food. I shall

now prepare such food that you will relish.”Our students will then reply, “Mother!You should also not eat such Rajasic

413 December 2005

food. It is not good for health.” As is the food,so is the head (thoughts). Wrong food and badthoughts make people forget God. Hence, donot change your food habits. Continue to stickto Sattwic diet. Take plenty of green leafyvegetables. It is only when you maintain goodhabits with regard to food and head will youbecome good.

You are aware that people outside havehigh expectations of the students studying inSri Sathya Sai educational institutions. Theywill reprimand you if they see you acting in aperverted manner, saying, “You are a studentof Sri Sathya Sai institution. How can youbehave in this bad manner?” Therefore, ourstudents should never give such anopportunity to others. Rather, they shouldteach others by setting an ideal to them. Some

students, show good behaviour and devotionas long as they remain in our hostels. Oncethey go out of the portals of the institution, theyturn bad. This should not happen. Whereveryou are, whether in the hostel here or whenyou go out, you must continue to have goodbehaviour. Of course, I have no doubt at allabout the behaviour of our students. Thestudents in our hostel and college are verygood. With the hope that our students willcontinue to be good and become worthy ofemulation by others, I conclude My Discoursewith blessings to all.

- From Bhagavan’s BenedictoryAddress on 22nd November 2005 in SaiKulwant Hall, Prasanthi Nilayam on theoccasion of the 24th Convocation of SriSathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning.

Applications on a plain paper in candidate’s own handwriting containing complete Bio-datainclusive of the detailed academic particulars and work experience (if any) along with a recentpassport size photograph, are invited from Trained Candidates fluent in English for appointmentas Teacher in Sri Sathya Sai Gurukulam English Medium School, Rajahmundry - 533101, for thefollowing post.

Chemistry Teacher (one post)

Qualifications Required:

a) Candidates should preferably hold a first class Graduation Degree by taking Chemistry as anelective subject

OR

b) Second Class Postgraduation degree in the Chemistry subject

Teachers Training Degree with relevant methodology.

Scale of Pay: Rs 4850-10250 + D.A. at A.P. State Government rates and H.R.A.

The last date for the receipt of applications is 30th January 2006. Selected candidates haveto appear for an interview at their own expenses at short notice.

RAJAHMUNDRY - 533101, ANDHRA PRADESH(Affiliated to C.I.S.C.E., New Delhi)

SRI SATHYA SAI GURUKULAM ENGLISH MEDIUM SCHOOL

Correspondent

December 2005 414

T WAS ONE OF THE MOSTglorious convocation functions of theInstitute marked by grandeur and

splendour as it was being held on the eve ofthe historic event of 80th Birthday of itsRevered Chancellor, Bhagavan Sri Sathya SaiBaba. Sai Kulwant Hall, the venue of thefunction, was virtually turned into heavenlygarden overnight with most beautiful flowers,creepers and even a lawn with fresh grass.The front wall behind the dais right up to thetop was aesthetically decorated with creepersand flowers. Floral gates and arches made onthe dais were simply marvellous. The entireHall was glittering with the light of thechandeliers. The light from the decorativefestoons added to its brilliance.

The Hall was full to its seams with eagerdevotees waiting for the function to start. At2.40 p.m., the ceremonial procession startedfrom Poornachandra. As it entered Sai KulwantHall, the mammoth gathering of devotees andstudents welcomed it with a thunderousapplause. The procession was led bythe Institute brass band, after which

came the Registrar holding the silver maceflanked by two students carrying the Instituteemblems. They were followed by the ReveredChancellor of the Institute, Bhagavan SriSathya Sai Baba, the Chief Guest, Sri T.N.Chaturvedi, the Governor of Karnataka,distinguished guests, members of the InstituteTrust, Governing Body and Academic Council.

After the procession reached the dais, theChief Guest was welcomed by the ViceChancellor with a beautiful garland. Theprogramme began with chanting of customaryVedic hymns appropriate for the occasionfollowed by formal declaration of the openingof the Convocation by the Revered Chancellor.

Vice Chancellor’s Introductory Speech

The Vice Chancellor, Sri Anil Vinayak Gokakthen welcomed all and offered specialwelcome to the Chief Guest of theConvocation, Sri T.N. Chaturvedi. Outlining themain achievements of the Institute during thelast one year, Sri Gokak said that theDepartment of Biosciences of the Institute had

been held eligible for the SpecialAssistance Programme of the

24th Convocation of SSSIHL

SELFLESSNESS IS THE MARK

OF TRUE EDUCATION

“Modern education develops selfishness and selfishness alone. True education is that

which fosters selflessness. True education does not limit one to serve only one’s selfish

ends; it elevates one to serve others”, said Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the Revered

Chancellor of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning while delivering His Benedictory

Address on the occasion of the 24th Convocation of the Institute held on 22nd November

2005 in Sai Kulwant Hall, Prasanthi Nilayam.

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University Grants Commission. Sri Gokakadded that the Institute had hosted manyseminars and workshops on subjects ofnational importance, and made a specialmention of the International Conference ofeminent educationists on “Education for the21st Century: From Education to Educare” heldin August 2005.

Sri Gokak quoted from the Discourses ofthe Revered Chancellor to define educare andadded that educare was the need of the hourso as to inculcate values in students and helpthem realise their innate divinity. Elaboratingupon the Sathya Sai System of Educationevolved under the guidance of the ReveredChancellor, Bhagavan Baba, Sri Gokakobserved that it was this unique system ofeducation of the Institute which wasresponsible for bringing about all-rounddevelopment of its students – physical,intellectual and spiritual. Congratulating thegraduands, Sri Gokak remarked that they wereextremely fortunate to receive theirdegrees on the eve of the 80th year of

the Advent of their Divine Chancellorwho was, in fact, the Chancellor of theuniverse. He added that this was aunique moment in the history ofmankind, when they were witnessingthe spiritual revolution embarked uponby Bhagavan besides the technologicalrevolution of this age. In conclusion, heexhorted the students to become thetorchbearers of this spiritual revolution.

After the introductory speech ofthe Vice Chancellor, the successfulcand ida te s we re adm in i s t e redthe customary oath and awardeddegrees; meritorious among themwere awarded gold medals by the

Revered Chancellor.

Convocation Address by the ChiefGuest

At the outset, the Chief Guest, Sri T.N.Chaturvedi expressed his gratitude toBhagavan for providing him the opportunity tocome to Prasanthi Nilayam and participate asChief Guest in the 24th Convocation of theInstitute on the eve of His 80th Birthday which,he said, was indeed an auspicious day ofprayerfulness and thankfulness as Bhagavanrepresents that eternal effulgence of the Divinespark that enlivens and enlightens humanitythrough ages. Referring to the motto of theInstitute, the learned speaker said, “The mottoof the Institute enshrines the Vedic ideals andinjunctions: Sathyam Vada (speak truth) andDharmam Chara (conduct must be guided byrighteousness). They briefly spell eternalverities of a better future for man. What betterguidance can one have for one’s thoughts andactions in society?” he asked. Sri Chaturvedi

referred to the integral system ofeducation developed by the Institute

Vice Chancellor, Sri Anil Vinayak Gokak, welcomingthe Chief Guest, Sri T.N. Chaturvedi with

a beautiful garland.

December 2005 416

under the guidance of its Revered Chancellorand said that this remarkable concept ofeducation was integral to Bharat’s cultural andspiritual heritage and signified totaldevelopment of man – intellectual, emotional,physical and spiritual. The Institute’s academicatmosphere, he added, was pervaded byspiritual vibrations and Bhagavan’s love forstudents that moulded their characterand inculcated in them the qualities oftruth, righteousness, peace, love, service,compassion, amity and fellowship whichformed the highest philosophy of man’s life.Reminding the students that society todaywas characterised by social, sectarian andregional disparities, urban-rural divide andignorance and backwardness, he exhortedthem to do their best to cure these ills ofsociety since the type of education theywere receiving in this Institute was

capable of equipping them with vastcapabilities for transforming society.

Extending his best wishes to thegraduating students leaving the portalsof the Institute, the learned speakerhoped, “As you are no doubt proud ofthe Institute as its alumni, the Institutewill be equally proud of you when in thiswide world whoever you be, you acquityourself in work and conduct with creditas expected of you.” Sri Chaturvediconcluded his Convocation Address withthe prayer: “May Bhagavan’s graceabide with each and every one of us andillumine our lives!”

Revered Chancellor’s BenedictoryAddress

In His Benedictory Address, theRevered Chancellor Bhagavan SriSathya Sai Baba said that true

education was that which could lead man torealise his divinity. Secular education, He said,was merely for providing the means of livingwhile spiritual education was for life. Moderneducation, He said, did not equip man to realisethe goal of his life and added that educationthat did not inculcate virtues and spirit ofservice in students was useless. (Full text ofBhagavan’s Benedictory Address has beengiven elsewhere in this issue.) The grand andsolemn function of the Convocation came to aclose at 4.45 p.m. with singing of the nationalanthem by all.

Prem Ki Jyoti: Convocation Drama 2005

The students of Sri Sathya Sai Institute ofHigher Learning presented the drama entitled“Prem Ki Jyoti” (light of love) on the evening of

22nd November 2005 in PoornachandraAuditorium on the occasion of the 24th

The Chancellor of the Institute, Bhagavan Sri Sathya SaiBaba presenting gold medal to a meritorious student.

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Convocation of the Institute. Dedicated at theLotus Feet of the Revered Chancellor of theInstitute, Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba onthe eve of His 80th Birthday, the dramashowed how sincere prayer and adherenceto righteousness could make seeminglyimpossible tasks possible and illuminehuman heart with the light of love and bliss.Presenting a realistic depiction of modern-dayconstruction business, the dramashowed a new direction for successin business enterprises on the basisof values without compromising onprinciples of ethics and morality.

The drama presented the successstory of Praneet, a creative architectin a construction company, whosefirm faith in God and noble ideals andbeliefs ultimately surmounted allhurdles, earned success and renownfor the company and created amarvellous piece of architecturededicated to the unity of all religions.The success achieved through noble

means and miraculous cure ofPraneet by Bhagavan Sri SathyaSai Baba transformed the managersof the company and created in themfirm faith in God, and the principlesof nobility, truth and love.

R e a l i s t i c s t o r y , p o w e r f u ldialogues, superb acting of thestudents and brilliant direction ofthe drama made it a powerfulpresentation and earned theappreciation of one and all andblessings of Bhagavan. In the end,Bhagavan went up on the stage,blessed the cast and posed forphotographs with them. The drama

which began at 6.15 p.m. came to a close at7.30 p.m. with Arati to Bhagavan. Besidesother dignitaries, the Chief Guest of theConvocation, Sri T.N. Chaturvedi, Governorof Karnataka also witnessed the drama. Thismagnificent piece of dramatic art, was in fact,a befitting tribute to the Divine Chancellor ofthe Institute on the eve of His 80th Birthday.

Another scene from the drama illustrating its themethrough an episode from the Ramayana.

A scene from the drama “Prem Ki Jyoti” enactedby the students of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher

Learning in Poornachandra Auditorium.

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RICH VARIETY OF CULTURAL,musical and social welfareprogrammes formed part of 80th

Birthday celebrations of Bhagavan SriSathya Sai Babaa t P r a s a n t h iNilayam.

Gujarati New Year was celebrated atPrasanthi Nilayam on 2nd November 2005 withthe benign benedictions of Bhagavan SriSathya Sai Baba. Sai Youth and Bal Vikaschildren of Gujarat presentedm a g n i f i c e n t c u l t u r a lprogrammes on this auspiciousoccasion in the Divine Presenceof Bhagavan.

The devotees of Gujaratsang sweet welcome songswhen Bhagavan came to SaiKulwant Hall on the morning of2nd November 2005 to showerthe bliss of His Divine Darshanon the devotees on thisauspicious day. On reaching thedais, Bhagavan was offered traditionalwelcome with Poornakumbham. He thengraciously inaugurated the programme bylighting the sacred lamp at 9.30 a.m. The firstitem of the programme featured “Sri SathyaSai Avatar Darshan”, a pilgrimage performedby 166 selected Sai Youth of Gujarat fromDakor (famous pilgrim centre of Gujarat) toParthi (Puttaparthi) serving over 45,000people on their way and spreading theDivine Message of Bhagavan in 126

villages of Gujarat. The beautiful chariot whichwas carried in this great pilgrimage wasbrought by its participants to Sai Kulwant Hallwhere Bhagavan blessed the participants.

The secondi t e m o f t h eprogramme was

a drama entitled “Bhagavan’s Mission”presented by the Bal Vikas children and youthof Gujarat. The drama beautifully depictedhow Bhagavan’s love and teachings were

bringing about transformation in mankindand ushering in a new golden era in theworld. Beautiful dances, sweet songs,a t h r i l l i n g Q a w a l i , a l l p o r t r a y i n gthe Glory of Bhagavan and His DivineMission of unity of all mankind made this anappreciable presentation. Specially the lotusdance presented by the Bal Vikas children was

very much appreciated. Bhagavan satthrough the entire performance andblessed the cast at the end of the

GUJARATI NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS

Bal Vikas children of Gujarat illustrating the Divine Mission ofBhagavan through a toy train in the drama “Bhagavan’s Mission”

enacted in Sai Kulwant Hall.

BHAGAVAN’S 80th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONSBHAGAVAN’S 80th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

AA

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drama. He also materialised a gold chain forone of the children. The drama was followedby Bhajans led by the Sai Youth of Gujarat.The morning programme came to a close at10.40 a.m. with Arati to Bhagavan. Prasadamwas distributed to all in the end.

The programme in the afternooncommenced with an exhilarating tribal danceby the Sai Youth of Gujarat in their colourfultraditional dresses. Dancing to the beat of drum

and to the tune of simple musical instruments,the dancers made many marvellousformations to the delight of all and thus offereda delectable presentation. This was followedby a beautiful dance by Bal Vikas girls studentsto the accompaniment of a very sweet andmelodious devotional song sung by playbacksingers in praise of Lord Ganesh. The nextitem of the programme was a very absorbingand realistic drama entitled “The Way of Life”presented by the Bal Vikas children. Thedrama showed how advancements inmedical science had become themonopoly of only the rich and costly

Sai Youth of Gujarat making a marvellous formationduring a tribal dance performance in Sai Kulwant Hall.

treatment had become out of the reach of poorpeople. In the end, the drama showed howBhagavan’s free hospitals and His teachingsof love and service were showing the light atthe end of the tunnel to the suffering humanity.The grand finale of these magnificentcelebrations was the song “Sai Ke HumBachche Hain …” depicting the glory of Sai –presented by Bal Vikas children with totalperfection. Simultaneously, the audience in the

Hall waved the flags, bearing a beautifulphoto of Bhagavan. The joyouscelebrations of Gujarati New Year cameto a close with this beautiful song.Bhagavan showered His blessings on thechildren at the end of the programmewhich concluded at 5.45 p.m. with offerof Arati to Bhagavan.

GLOBAL AKHANDA BHAJAN

Right from His childhood, BhagavanSri Sathya Sai Baba has beenemphasising the significance of Bhajansas an effective means of experiencingthe Divine. He says, “Once you take theName of the Lord which is sweetnessitself, it will awaken all the sweetness inyou.” Devotees in Sai Kulwant Hall were

immersed in the sweetness of God’s Namewhen soul-elevating Bhajans to theaccompaniment of divine music were sung inthe Divine Presence of Bhagavan during theAkhanda Bhajan held at Prasanthi Nilayam on12th and 13th November 2005.

On the afternoon of 12th November 2005,Bhagavan came to Sai Kulwant Hall at 5.45p.m. At 6.00 p.m. sharp, Bhagavan lightedthe sacred lamp in the Bhajan Mandir to

inaugurate the Akhanda Bhajan. Theentire Sai Kulwant Hall then startedreverberating with the chanting of the

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17th November 2005. A grand function washeld in the Divine Presence of Bhagavan tocelebrate this joyous event of immense socialsignificance. Not only were the marriagesperformed in a sacred and traditional mannerwith chanting of Vedic Mantras, it alsoconveyed a valuable message of avoidingwasteful expenditure on marriages.Throughout the performance of the function,Bhagavan kept showering His unboundedgrace on the couples. No less was the showerof gifts which Bhagavan distributed to themwith His Divine Hands.

The venue of this function was Sai KulwantHall, Prasanthi Nilayam which was aestheticallydecorated for this sacred and joyous occasion.The central part of the Hall, where the coupleswere to sit along with their parents andrelatives, was so beautifully decoratedwith flowers and plantain leaves that itlooked like a big wedding Pandal. Closed circuitT.V.s were set up at vantage points for

easy viewing of this grand event by thehuge concourse of devotees in SaiKulwant Hall.

Divine Name as the boys and girls students ofSri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning ledthe Bhajans alternately, and the entirecongregation in the Hall followed them withdeep devotional fervour. The Bhajanscontinued throughout the night of 12thNovember 2005. Besides the students, somegroups of Ashram staff and devotees also ledthe Bhajans. At 5.00 a.m. on the morning of13th November 2005, Suprabhatam (morninginvocation of the Lord) was sung in the BhajanMandir, after which Bhajans continued.Bhagavan came to the Bhajan Mandir at 7.30a.m. on 13th November 2005and showered His Divine bless-ings on the singers and devotees.Bhagavan’s Divine Presenceenthused one and all, andBhajans continued with greatdevotion and enthusiasm. In theafternoon, Bhagavan came tothe Bhajan Mandir at 3.15 p.m.Bhagavan’s Presence added tothe bliss of singing and filledeach heart with divine bliss. After24 hours of continuous singing,the Akhanda Bhajan came to ahappy conclusion in the DivinePresence of Bhagavan at 6.00 p.m.with offer of Arati to Bhagavan. Prasadam wasdistributed to all in the end. Sai Organisationsand devotees organised Akhanda Bhajan for24 hours on these two days in all parts of theworld surcharging the environment of theworld with the vibrations of the Divine Name.

MASS MARRIAGES FUNCTION

As part of 80th Birthday celebrations ofBhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, 80 massmarriages were performed in SaiKulwant Hall, Prasanthi Nilayam on

Mass marriages of 80 couples being performedin Sai Kulwant Hall.

421 December 2005

On 17th November 2005, Bhagavanarrived in Sai Kulwant Hall at 7.30 a.m. amidstsacred chants of Vedic Mantras. Soon afterthis, the marriage procession of the brides andbridegrooms in their wedding dresses, givento them by Bhagavan on the previous eveningentered Sai Kulwant Hall. They were led byNadaswaram musicians and a vibrant groupof dancers, and were accompanied by theirparents and close relatives. The organiserspromptly led them to their allotted seats in SaiKulwant Hall. As soon as they were seated inthe Hall, Bhagavan went into their rows andshowered His blessings on them. The entireenvironment was surcharged with sacrednessand gaiety by the continuous Vedic chants byInstitute students and sweet notes ofNadaswaram musicians. While Vedic Mantrasand Nadaswaram music continued, Bhagavanwent into the rows of the couples anddistributed Mangal Sutras (necklace ofauspiciousness) to each bridegroom withHis Divine Hands. After Bhagavan returnedto the dais, He called the brides one by oneand gave them gifts with His blessings.

The rituals of marriage began at 8.50 a.m.with chanting of sacred Mantras by thepriests. As the priests gave instructions, thebrides and bridegrooms performed the rituals.The volunteers who were seated with thecouples helped them to perform all the ritualsof the wedding in the prescribed manner.Commencing with worship of Lord Ganesh,the couples performed the rituals culminatingin the important ritual of tying of Mangal Sutraby the bridegroom around the neck of thebride. This was performed at 9.05 a.m.amidst chanting of Vedic Mantras, sweetand joyous notes of Nadaswaram and

loud applause of viewers. Finally, the brideand bridegroom performed the ritual ofputting yellow rice on each other’s head,garlanded each other, and tied the nuptialknot. After the performance of these rituals,Bhagavan again went into rows of the couplesand sprinkled sacred rice on them andshowered His grace on them. This joyousand sacred function came to a close at 10.05a.m. with Arati to Bhagavan. The couples andtheir parents were then offered a sumptuouswedding feast.

RATHOTSAVAM

Throughout the last one year, variousprogrammes of far reaching social, ethical andspiritual significance have continued in all thecountries of the world as part of 80th Birthdaycelebrations of Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba.However, at Prasanthi Nilayam thesecelebrations had a traditional start withRathotsavam which was held on 18thNovember 2005.

On the morning of 18th November 2005,Bhagavan came to Sai Kulwant Hall at 7.40a.m. amidst the chants of sacred VedicMantras and sweet notes of Nadaswarammusic. As Bhagavan reached the centre of theHall, Bhagavan’s beloved elephant Sai Geetacame forward to pay its homage to its DivineMaster. Bhagavan lovingly caressed it and fedit with fruits. After showering the bliss of HisDivine Darshan on the devotees in Sai KulwantHall, Bhagavan came to the Bhajan Mandirand blessed the commencement ofRathotsavam. Soon after this, idols for theprocession were brought out in twopalanquins, one having the idols of Rama,

Lakshmana, Sita and Hanuman and theother having the idol of VenugopalSwami. At the Gopuram gate, the idol

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of Venugopal Swami was placed on abeautifully decorated chariot. Bhagavancame out up to the Gopuram gate to bless thecommencement of this grand procession. Theprocession was led by Sai Geeta andNadaswaram musicians, followed by Vedachanting and Bhajan singing groups ofInstitute students. As it meandered its wayto Sri Pedda Venkama Raju KalyanaMandapam, large number of people cameout of their homes to witness it. Some of thembroke coconuts before the chariot, othersperformed Puja and Arati to the idols. Afterthe procession reached the KalyanaMandapam, Arati was offered to the idols andthe procession slowly moved back to SaiKulwant Hall, after placing the chariot in theKalyana Mandapam. The procession returnedto Sai Kulwant Hall at 9.30 a.m. and the idolsof Rama, Lakshmana, Sita and Hanumanwere brought back to the Bhajan Mandir. Thisgrand function came to a close at 9.35 a.m.with Arati to Bhagavan.

Rathotsavam procession on its way toPedda Venkama Raju Kalyana Mandapam in Puttaparthi.

LADIES DAYCELEBRATIONS

Ladies Day is one of theimportant functions of BhagavanSri Sathya Sai Baba’s Birthdaycelebrations. It is the day torecognise the importance of therole played by woman as buildersof home, society and nation. Likeprevious years, Ladies Day wascelebrated at Prasanthi Nilayamin a befitting manner, and all theprogrammes on this day wereconducted by the ladies.

The programmes began withearly morning Suprabhatam in which a largenumber of ladies took part. After this, therewas Veda Parayanam which was alsoconducted by the ladies as they went roundthe Mandir premises chanting Vedic Mantras.Later, the ladies conducted Nagar Sankirtanwith great devotion. Sai Kulwant Hall, thevenue of these celebrations, was beautifullydecorated on this day. Besides floral andother decorations, the Hall was shining withcolourful portraits of Bhagavan Sri Sathya SaiBaba on canvas which contained Bhagavan’steachings also. A big portrait of MotherEaswaramma was prominently displayed.There were special decorations on the dais,where a beautiful picture of MotherEaswaramma was placed amidst a cluster offlowers. Sweet notes of Nadaswaramreverberated in the Hall as a mark of welcometo Bhagavan. Two bands of Sri Sathya SaiPrimary School led Bhagavan to Sai KulwantHall. Bhagavan was offered a grand welcomewhen He came to Sai Kulwant Hall at 8.25 a.m.Girls with lighted lamps, Poornakumbham and

423 December 2005

colourful umbrellas stood along the passageof Bhagavan to usher Him into the Hall.

A melodious song offered heartfeltwelcome to Bhagavan as soon as He enteredthe Hall. After showering the bliss of His DivineDarshan on the mammoth gathering ofdevotees in the Hall, Bhagavan came to thedais where He lighted the sacred lamp at8.35 a.m. amidst a thunderous applause ofdevotees to mark the inauguration of theprogramme.

The first item of the programme was agrand band display by the girls students ofSri Sathya Sai Primary School, PrasanthiNilayam which delighted one and all. Afterthis, Bhagavan released a book entitled“Bhagavan’s Divine Upadesh” containing acompilation of 80 teachings of Bhagavan andalso the first issue of the magazine “MotherSathya Sai” started by Easwaramma Women’sWelfare Trust.

Before the Divine Discourse of Bhagavanon this important occasion, three ladiesaddressed the gathering. The first speakerwas Smt. Mallika Srinivasan, Trustee,

Easwaramma Women’s Welfare Trust. Smt.Srinivasan expressed gratitude to Bhagavanfor giving to women the opportunity to servemankind through such great endeavours asBal Vikas, Women’s Colleges, EaswarammaWomen’s Welfare Project and Mother andChild Project. The second speaker was Smt.Gita Mohan Ram of the USA who narrated afew incidents from her life to tell howBhagavan gave her opportunities toexperience His omnipotence, omniscienceand omnipresence. The last speaker of theprogramme was Smt. Chethana Raju, Trustee,Easwaramma Women’s Welfare Trust whoearlier introduced the speakers also. Referringto the 80th Birthday celebrations of Bhagavan,Smt. Raju said that it was difficult for man tounderstand Bhagavan, who, in fact, is ageless,without birth and death and beyond thelimitations of time. But, she added, it waspossible for all to see Bhagavan’s love in actionwhich comprised numerous service projectsfor the welfare of mankind. She also paid richtributes to Mother Easwaramma whosehumble wishes for the welfare of othersfructified into stupendous welfare projects

started by Bhagavan.

After these speeches,Bhagavan gave His DivineMessage and exhorted one andall to realise the goal of life byrecognising their divine reality.As all the desires of MotherEaswaramma, Bhagavan said,were for the welfare of others,they assumed the form of suchhuge projects like super specialityhospitals, water supply projectsand big educational institutions.Bhagavan brought His Discourse

A band troupe of Sri Sathya Sai Primary Schoolgiving a performance on Ladies Day.

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to a close with the Bhajan, “Prema MudithaManase Kaho …” which the entirecongregation followed with great devotionalfervour. The morning programme of LadiesDay came to a happy conclusion with Arati toBhagavan at 10.10 a.m.

Bhagavan came to Sai Kulwant Hall in theafternoon at 4.15 p.m. He was led by the twobands of Sri Sathya Sai Primary School. Girlsstanding along the passage waved colourfulribbons as a mark of welcome to Bhagavan.The programme started at 4.30 p.m. afterBhagavan occupied His chair on the dais. Thefirst item of the programme on the afternoonof 19th November 2005 was a soul-elevatingpresentation of devotional songs by renownedsinger Smt. Kavita Krishnamurthy.

She commenced her presentation witha beautiful song in praise of MotherEaswaramma. What followed was a rare treatof melodious songs saturated with devotionwhich kept the audience spellbound for nearlyan hour and a half. Thereafter, the studentsof Sri Sathya Sai Primary School presentedbeautiful dances to the tune of sweet musicwith accompanying songs describing the glory

Sri Sathya Sai Primary School students extolling the glory ofMother Easwaramma on Ladies Day through their

magnificent presentation.

of Mother Easwaramma and Bhagavan SriSathya Sai Baba. Equally enthralling was thisprogramme of the students, who receivedBhagavan’s profuse blessings and the covetedopportunity of group photo with Him at the endof their magnificent presentation. Ladies Daycelebrations came to a close at 6.30 p.m. withArati to Bhagavan. Prasadam was distributedto all in the end.

A RICH VARIETY OF MUSICPROGRAMMES

Bhagavan’s 80th Birthday Celebrationin Chinese Tradition

On the afternoon of 18th November 2005,a group of overseas devotees presented amusic programme to celebrate 80th year ofthe Divine Advent of Bhagavan Sri Sathya SaiBaba. This was a unique celebration inaccordance with Chinese custom. Thecelebration commenced with a brief referenceto the historical ties between India and Chinathrough a dialogue which depicted thatcontacts between the people of these twogreat countries went back to as early as 400B.C. Cultural relations, trade and commerce

flourished via the silk route. It wasthrough these ancient contacts thatthe sacred teachings of Buddhacame to China. About 1,400 yearsago, Chinese monk and scholarHieun Tsang travelled to India tostudy Buddhist scriptures. He madethis pilgrimage in search of truth. Hewas the forerunner of manyChinese worldwide who today aremaking the same pilgrimage fortruth to India. They converge atPrasanthi Nilayam because hereresides the Living Truth in the formof Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba.

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At the outset, heartfelt gratitude wasoffered to Bhagavan for His loving permissionto celebrate this auspicious occasion inaccordance with Chinese tradition. A Chinesefamily on behalf of all present offered tea toBhagavan in a symbolic gesture of filial pietyand gratitude for His boundless love.Presentations were made of the longevitypeach, longevity noodles and Chinese scrollswhich symbolise traditional wishes forgood health and longevity.

A musical presentation followedwith the introduction of seveninstrumentalists from the People’sRepublic of China. These accompli-shed musicians played Bhajans onthese traditional musical instruments.The instruments were: erhu, pipa,yangqin, guzheng, dizi and sheng.Besides this soulful instrumentalmusic including tunes of some popularSai Bhajans by the instrumentalists,some ladies devotees presentedsweet devotional songs and Bhajans.The entire musical programme was very wellreceived by the devotees in Sai KulwantHall who applauded enthusiastically.

This, together with Bhagavan’sgestures of approbation, energisedthe musicians who responded byplaying with ever greater vigourand zest.

A t t h e c o n c l u s i o n o f t h epresentation, Bhagavan showeredHis blessings on the group andgave them the opportunity of groupphotographs with Him including thephotographs in which they posedwith Bhagavan along with theirmusical instruments. The programme

which began at 3.30 p.m. came to a happyconclusion at 4.30 p.m.

Musical Presentation by Sai InternationalChoir

The Sai International Choir consisting of175 members from 45 countries of the worldoffered a grand musical tribute to BhagavanSri Sathya Sai Baba on the afternoon of 20th

November 2005 on the eve of 80th Birthdayof Bhagavan. It was a soul-stirringpresentation consisting of ten English

A group of overseas devotees offering their musical tributeto Bhagavan during a presentation in Chinese

tradition in Sai Kulwant Hall.

Sai International Choir offering a grandmusical tribute to Bhagavan.

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devotional songs sung to the accompanimentof sweet divine music which sent the entirecongregation into raptures. Not only was thewording of the songs full of sweetness andrhythm, those who sang them had also hadtheir hearts full of sweet feelings of devotion.Bhagavan sat through the entire presentationwhich started at 4.00 p.m. and came to a closeat 5.15 p.m. After a brief session of Bhajans,Arati was offered to Bhagavan to mark theconclusion of this beautiful musical afternoon.

Concert by Sai Symphony Orchestra

Music lovers had a magnificent treat whenSai Symphony Orchestra comprising about 60artistes from 20 countries of the world madea soul-stirring musical presentation in SaiKulwant Hall on the afternoon of 21stNovember 2005 as their love offering toBhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba on the eve ofHis 80th Birthday. The programmecommenced at 5.05 p.m. in the DivinePresence of Bhagavan. The orchestra madea marvellous presentation of classiccompositions of world-renowned composerswhich included Johannes Brahmas of

Germany, Gioacchino Rossini of Italy, FranzLiszt of Hungary, Georges Bizet of France,Charles Gounod of France, WolfgangAmadeus Mozart of Austria, George Enescuof Romania and Franz von Suppe of Austria.The instruments used were: violin, viola, cello,bass, clarinet, oboe, bassoons, flute, trumpet,trombone, french horn, keyboard-harp,percussions and timpani. The entirepresentation was made with devotion anddedication and kept the audience spellboundfor one hour. It came to a close at 6.05 p.m.At its conclusion, Bhagavan blessed theartistes and posed for photographs with them.

Devotional Music by Russian ChoirOn the afternoon of 25th November 2005,

292 members of the Russian choir presenteda programme of devotional music to paytheir tribute to Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Babaas part of 80th Birthday celebrations ofBhagavan. The programme commenced afterthe arrival of Bhagavan in Sai Kulwant Hall at4.45 p.m. The choir comprising both ladiesand gents from Russian speaking countriespresented devotional songs with great

d e v o t i o n a l f e r v o u r t o t h eaccompaniment of various musicalinstruments. Perfect melody andrhythm of the songs sung withdevotion and love for Bhagavanoverwhelmed the mammoth gatheringof devotees who responded tothe magnificent performance byapplauding with great delight. TheBhajan “Bolo Narayana Jai JaiVitthala ...” led by a member of thechoir was marked by amazingaccuracy of pronunciation and tune.The choir had selected famousmelodies and they practised for moreSai Symphony Orchestra making a soul-stirring presentation.

427 December 2005

Russian choir presenting a programme of devotional musicin Sai Kulwant Hall on 25th November 2005.

than seven months to bring about perfectionin their performance. During the performancein the Divine Presence of Bhagavan, manyparticipants of the choir experiencedSwami’s love and were moved to tears. All ofthem felt great joy and unlimited love ofBhagavan. Obviously delighted by the

performance, Bhagavan showeredHis blessings on the members ofthe choir and posed for groupphotos with them at the end of theprogramme at 5.15 p.m.

NARAYANA SEVA

Narayana Seva was performedon a very large scale duringthe 80th Birthday celebrations ofBhagavan at Prasanthi Nilayam.From 18th November to 24thNovember, free quality food was

offered to all, which included tea / coffee /milk and breakfast in the morning, lunch atnoon, tea / coffee / milk and snacks in theevening and dinner at night. According to amodest estimate, more than 8 lakh peoplewere served food during this period.

Paramatma alone is real. Paramatma is truth.

Paramatma is love. Meditate on Him as truth,

as love. It is possible to realise Him in whatever

form you meditate upon. Be always in the

company of His devotees. Through this

Satsanga, Viveka (discrimination) and

Vairagya (detachment) will be implanted and

increased. These will strengthen the spirit and

endow you with inner peace. Your mind will

then merge in Paramatma.–ñ Baba

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T WAS A HISTORIC MOMENT FORSri Sathya Sai Organisations whenBhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba

graciously inaugurated their 8th WorldConference on the morning of 20th November2005 in a glittering function held in Sai KulwantHall, Prasanthi Nilayam on the eve of His 80thBirthday. The theme of the Conference wasunity, purity, divinity. The agenda was toconsider the profound spiritual significanceand practical worldwide applications of unity,purity and divinity in relation to the individualand the family, the Sai Organisations and itsmembers, and society and nations at large.Nearly 15,000 delegates from over 180countries came to Prasanthi Nilayam to takepart in this historic Conference.

Inaugural Session

On 20th November 2005, Bhagavan cameto Sai Kulwant Hall at 8.05 a.m. which wasbeautifully decorated for this importantoccasion. Besides floral and other decorations,there were many display boards whichdepicted the theme of the Conference inbeautiful writing. After showering the bliss ofHis Divine Darshan on the delegates anddevotees in the Hall, Bhagavan came to thedais and lighted the sacred lamp at 8.10 a.m.amidst a thunderous applause of the hugegathering to inaugurate the Conference. Foureminent speakers addressed the gatheringand elaborated on the theme of theConference, its significance in relation tomankind and the Divine Mission ofBhagavan.

The first speaker was Sri Indulal Shah,International Advisor, Sri Sathya SaiOrganisations. Sri Shah said that it was amomentous occasion for Sri Sathya SaiOrganisations as this Conference was beingheld in the 80th year of the Advent of theAvatar of Kali Yuga in His Divine Presence.Referring to the First World Conference whichwas held in 1968 in Mumbai, Sri Shah observedthat the Sai Organisations had madestupendous progress, and there were atpresent 2200 Sai Centres in all parts of theworld. This Conference, he said, unfolded agolden chapter of Sai Organisation’s historyand provided an opportunity to mankind toattain the goal of life through three W’s, viz.,work, worship and wisdom. The secondspeaker was Sri V. Srinivasan, All IndiaPresident, Sri Sathya Sai Organisations. Unity,purity and divinity, Sri Srinivasan said, werelike three Mahavakyas (profound statements)which could lead man to the goal of his life.Unless man observed unity in his thoughts,words and deeds, he could not achieve purityand divinity, added the learned speaker.Referring to the Grama Seva, Sri Srinivasanobserved that Bhagavan had set the ideal toreach out to the individual through this greatmovement. Following this ideal, the SaiOrganisations should start from the individualand reach out to family, organisation, societyand nation, said Sri Srinivasan.

The next speaker, Dr. Michael Goldstein,Chairman, Prasanthi Council observedthat unity, purity, divinity were, in fact,

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three stages of spiritual progress in man’sjourney of life. Human life, he said, was worthliving if man achieved spiritual progressthrough unity and purity to attain divinity. Thelast speaker was Sri Leonardo Gutter, ZonalChairman of Sai Organisation in Latin Americawho informed the delegates that there wereas many as 300 Sai Centres in Latin America.Sri Gutter then narrated several incidents howBhagavan brought about his transformationthrough His Divine love and teachings, andgave him the stupendous experience of Hisomnipresence, omnipotence and omniscience.The greatest Sadhana, Sri Gutter observed,was to realise the love of Bhagavan and tothink of Him at all times. The Inaugural Sessionof the Conference came to a conclusion withArati to Bhagavan at 9.35 a.m.

Plenary Sessions

After the Inaugural Session in Sai KulwantHall, there were separate sessions for Indianand overseas delegates. Indian delegates hadthree plenary sessions, one of which was heldon 20th November 2005 and the remainingtwo on 21st November2005. The venue for all thethree sessions was SaiKulwant Hall. The firstsession was held from12.40 p.m. to 2.30 p.m.to discuss the innersignificance of unity, purityand divinity for theindividual and the family.The learned speakers whodelivered talks in thissession were two formerVice Chancellors of SriSathya Sai Insititute ofHigher Learning, Sri

S.V. Giri and Dr. G. Venkataraman, andWarden, Brindavan Campus of the Institute,Sri B.N. Narasimha Murthy. The secondsession was held on the morning of 21stNovember 2005 from 10.00 a.m. to 12.35 p.m.which was addressed by Sri Anil Kumar, afaculty member of the Institute, Dr. N.Anjanaiah, State President of Sri Sathya SaiSeva Organisation, Andhra Pradesh and SriNimish Pandya, Member, Sri Sathya Sai Trust,Maharashtra and Goa. The topics deliberatedupon in the talks of these learned speakerswere “Importance of Unity for theOrganisation”, “Importance of Purity for theOrganisation”, and “Inner Significance ofDivinity for the Organisation”. The third sessionwas held in the afternoon from 1.45 p.m. to4.00 p.m. The first talk in this session wasdelivered by Dr. Narendranath Reddy,Member, Prasanthi Council who spoke on thetopic “Importance of Unity for Society andNations”. The next speaker Dr. Keki M. Mistry,Member, Sri Sathya Sai Trust, Maharashtraand Goa spoke on the topic “Importance ofPurity for Society and Nations”. The last

Indian delegates in Sai Kulwant Hall during a Plenary Session of the8th World Conference of Sri Sathya Sai Organisations.

December 2005 430

speaker Sri Ajit Popat of the U.K. elaboratedupon the topic “Objective of Divinity for Societyand Nations”. At the end of each session, therewas a lively discussion in which the questionsand queries of the delegates were answered.

The Plenary Sessions for the overseasdelegates were held in a specially mademagnificent large Pandal (temporary shelter)in the western corner of Prasanthi Nilayam. Inthe first session held on 20th November 2005,there were three speakers. The first speakerwas Dr. Narendranath Reddy, who spoke on“Unity, Purity, Divinity in the Realm ofSpirituality”. The second speaker, Sri AnilKumar gave his talk on the topic “Unity, Purityand Divinity in the Realm of Education”. Thelast speaker of the session was Air ChiefMarshal (Retd.) N.C. Suri and the subject ofhis talk was “Unity, Purity, Divinity in the Realmof Seva”. At the end of these talks, there wasan interactive session in which a group ofpanelists answered the queries of thedelegates. The second and third sessionswere held on 21st November 2005. Thesecond session held from 10.00 a.m. to 12.00

noon, opened with a talk by Sri ShituChudasma, Youth Coordinator, U.K. on thetopic “Spiritual Significance of Unity, Purity,Divinity for Youth”. Thereafter, Dr. MichaelGoldstein shared his views on the theme ofthe Conference and summed up theproceedings of the Conference. After this,there was an open discussion on variousaspects of the theme of the Conferencein which the delegates par t ic ipatedenthusiastically.

The Conference provided a valuable forumfor exchange of views on issues of commonconcern between various units / centres of theSai Organisation. In the interactive sessionsboth the Indian as well as the overseasdelegates held discussions on the variousaspects of the theme of the Conference. Afterthorough discussion, future plans were drawnup to foster unity, purity, divinity in theindividual, in the family, in the Organisation,in society and the nations. Befittingly, thedeliberations of Indian and overseas wings ofthe Conference came to a happy conclusionwith prayer to Bhagavan for the welfare of theentire mankind.

If a drop of water isolates itself from the ocean, it not

only forfeits the benefit of being a part of the vast

ocean but also dries up in no time, losing its very

existence. Likewise, a man asserting his separate

individuality apart from Divinity becomes finite and

mortal, whereas if he remains as a part of the Divine,

he regains his innate nature of being infinite and

immortal. Egos are different and numerous like

bubbles. The Self is one like the ocean.

ñ Baba

431 December 2005

was interviewed by television, and the entireevent was declared to be of cultural interestby the Municipal Council of La Plata City.

Australia

The city of Adelaide is the capital of SouthAustralia and is regarded as one of the mostimportant cities in Australia. On 1st May 2005,the Advent of Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Babaand His Work was announced through awell-attended public meeting. This was thethird public meeting in Australia. The meetingwas held at the Norwood Concert Hall in

Adelaide where 350 people attended. Amongthe attendees were the local Member ofParliament and a Member of the SouthAustralian Multicultural and Ethnic Affairs

Commission.

A traditional welcome by anAboriginal elder was followed by the

NEWS FROM SAI CENTRES

The venue of the public meeting in Adelaide,Australia was Norwood Concert Hall.

Public Meetings

I want publicity for the teachings and themessage. I want Tattwa Prachara (publicity forthe philosophy), not Vyakti Prachara (publicityfor the person). That is more important. AboutMe there is no need to talk.

- Sri Sathya Sai Baba, 1966

Argentina

Nestled between the serene and majesticAndes and the Atlantic Ocean in the provinceof Buenos Aires is the capital city of La Plataon the Rio Plata. This idyllic setting was thehome to a well-attended public meeting tospread the message of Bhagavan Sri SathyaSai Baba. Nearly 700 people attended thismeeting on 30th August 2005.

The meeting began with a welcomespeech by Ms. Miriam Cardoso. After this,live music was featured by the popularVaikunta group and an introductorymessage by renowned national actor SaloPasik about service activities undertaken bythe Sathya Sai Organisation. This wasfollowed by a speech by Sri Leonardo Gutter,Zonal Chairman of Sri Sathya Sai BabaOrganisation of Latin America. He describedthe worldwide impact of the work carried outby Bhagavan Baba and the impact onindividual lives by His teachings. The meetingconcluded with screening of the film ‘His Work’and closing remarks by Ms. Sara Levita.

After the meeting, Ms. MiriamCardoso was interviewed for a radioprogramme, and Sri Leonardo Gutter

December 2005 432

Australian National Anthem. Two notablespeakers addressed the audience. The firstwas Neville Fredericks, Central Coordinator ofSri Sathya Sai Baba Organisation for Australiaand PNG. He was followed by Krishnan Nair,Deputy Central Coordinator of Sri Sathya SaiOrganisation. Both speakers shared theirunderstanding of the teachings of Bhagavanand its central importance in securingpersonal, community and global harmony. Theevent concluded with the screening of the film‘His Work’. Participants were deeply touchedby the presentations and the magnanimity ofBhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba.

Mexico

Tijuana City in Baja California, Mexico,stands between two mighty nations: the USAand Mexico. In one of the largest publicmeetings, over 1,100 people congregated tohear about Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba on13th August 2005. Many heard the message

of love of Sri Sathya Sai Baba for the first timeduring this meeting.

Dr. Sam Sandweiss and John Behnerelectrified the audience with descriptionsof the spiritual, social, educational andhealthcare work of Bhagavan Sri

Over 1,100 people congregated to hear aboutBhagavan in Tijuana City.

Sathya Sai Baba. Then Laura Elisa Leon,President of the Sai Organisation in Mexico,read a letter from Bhagavan regarding lovingsocial service. There were many in theaudience who were moved to tears by the workof Bhagavan and by His unending stream oflove and compassion for all mankind.

Singapore

The thriving City State is a juggernauteconomy and a trend-setter in Asia. It is in thissparkling country that a large public meetingwas held to talk of the glory of Bhagavan tothe world.

About 150 guests were welcomed on 27thAugust 2005 by the Sathya Sai CentralOrganisation of Singapore. The eventconsisted of two keynote speakers andscreening of the film ‘His Work’. The firstspeaker was Sri Victor Krishna Kanu, Director,The African Institute of Sathya Sai Education(TAISSE), Ndola, Zambia. He reiteratedBhagavan’s teachings on human values andthe importance of practising them in order todevelop pure hearts. The second speaker, Dr.Yeoh Kian Hian spoke of the large-scaleservice projects of Swami in the field ofhealthcare, educare and sociocare withspecific reference to Sri Sathya Sai WaterProjects, educational Institutes and hospitals.

This was a memorable public meeting forevery participant and for Singapore. Theattendees left the meeting with greatappreciation of Bhagavan’s Divine Message.

Community Service

In order to deserve the sacred name “Seva”,the activity must be freed from all attachment

to the self and based on firm faith in thedivine resident in every being. Seva hasto be considered as worshipping the

433 December 2005

form that God has assumed to give the Sevakthe chance to worship.

- Sri Sathya Sai Baba, 1986

Netherlands

Sai devotees in the Netherlands haveundertaken a result-oriented communityproject “Sai Challenge”. The devotees adopta social problem and within seven days find asolution and implement it. On 19th August2005, the Sai Challenge participants turnedtheir attention to the home of an elderlydisabled gentleman. He was living in adilapidated building and was not able to takecare of his house for 9 years. The devoteescleaned up his home and restored acceptableliving conditions to him. Once again, his homeand his garden were sparkling and were areminder of the power of loving service.

Brazil

Sai Centres in Brazil have been adoptinglocal communities and providing needed socialand physical support. One of the communitiesadopted is the city of Goiania in the State ofGoias.

This ongoing service project focusesmainly on educare and community service.The goal is human excellence throughdevotional practices, selfless service andeducation in human values. Service is heldevery Saturday from 8.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m.and begins with devotional chants, readingof Sai literature and meditation. Thedevotees then begin Seva which consistsof food preparation and distribution, visitsto community homes, local school cleaningand maintenance and several craft workshops.A community vegetable gardening projectwas started in the beginning of 2004 forthe production of organic food. About

15 volunteers selflessly run the soupkitchen that serves 35 children, 10 teenagersand 25 adults every week. These servicescomplement the education in human valuesprogramme taught by the Sai School of Goias.Such efforts have been much appreciated bythe citizens and local governments.

Medical Camps

Doctors should recognise the importance ofthe five human values in delivering medicalcare: Truth, Righteousness, Peace, Love andNon-violence. Love is the basis for all thesevalues. Doctors can infuse courage in patientsby the love they show for the patients. Ifdoctors carry out their duties with love, theywill be crowned with success.

- Sri Sathya Sai Baba, 1995

U.A.E.

The United Arab Emirates is a federationof seven States in the Persian Gulf, and AbuDhabi is the capital city with a population ofover a million. A medical camp was held inMussafa, an industrial centre within Abu Dhabi

on 14th October 2005. A total of 25 volunteersand four doctors examined 117 patients.

Apart from medical treatment that wasadministered free of charge, patientswere counselled on the importance of

Patients being examined in a medicalcamp in Abu Dhabi.

December 2005 434

good diet, hygiene, stress management andavoidance of vices like smoking andconsumption of alcohol. They were also givenmedications and transportation free of charge.

A second medical camp was held in thepremises of the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabiwhere 90 patients were seen and the film ‘HisWork’ was screened. The Indian Ambassadorcame down from his residence on a holiday togreet the doctors and volunteers. Thesecamps were landmark events in the history ofthe State where free medical care was givenwith love and compassion to patients underthe Sarva Dharma rubric of the Sathya SaiOrganisation.

Argentina

A large medical camp was conducted in thecity of Grand Bourg, in the province of BuenosAires, Argentina on 15th October 2005. In thecamp, 297 patients were seen for varyingmedical conditions by physicians from variousspecialities. Ten consulting rooms werefashioned with adequate separators and allpatients were offered not only free medicationsbut also a hot meal. In addition, the team madeseveral home visits for medical consultationswhen the patient was unable to travel to themedical camp site.

This labour of love was so muchappreciated by the local people that onephysician and one builder made a commitmentto build a consulting room and run a freemedical clinic at the same site on a regularbasis.

U.S.A.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba Organisationconducted a medical camp on 8th October2005 in Washington D.C. A total of 41patients were seen in one day. Patientswere assessed and screened for

glaucoma, hypertension, diabetes, asthma,vision and dental diseases. In addition,counselling was provided for nutrition,diabetes, heart disease, smoking, stressmanagement, mental illnesses and commoncancers. Many patients commented that theyhad never felt such love and compassionpouring forth from healthcare professionals.

– Prasanthi Council

Jammu and Kashmir: On 23rd November2005, Birthday of Bhagavan was celebratedat Jammu with enthusiasm and devotionalfervour. The celebrations started in themorning with 21 Omkars followed bySuprabhatam and Nagar Sankirtan at 5.20a.m. Other programmes started at 2 p.m. withVeda recitation followed by devotional songsby Bal Vikas children. A presentation was alsomade on the Sri Sathya Sai Educare followedby Sarva Dharma Bhajan. The function waswell attended by devotees and a widecoverage was also given by the local media.On this occasion, an exhibition was also helddisplaying the life and mission of BhagavanBaba.

Karnataka: On the eve of 80th Birthday ofBhagavan, an 80-day Maha Yajna wasperformed at Bagepally, Kolar district for thewelfare of the world from 1st September to20th November 2005. Poornahuti of the Yajnawas performed on 20th November 2005 alongwith Bheema Ratha Shanti for 80 couples whohad attained 80 years and above.

On 23rd November 2005, the students andtheir parents, along with devotees and staff ofSri Sathya Sai Vidya Niketan, Bagepally

celebrated Bhagavan’s Birthday with greatzeal and enthusiasm. More than5,000 devotees congregated and

B H A R A T

435 December 2005

performed Laksha Deepotsava (lighting of onelakh lamps). Bhagavan’s Prasadam wasdistributed to all on this occasion.

Kerala: 80-hour Akhanda Bhajan wasconducted in all the 14 districts of the Statefrom 10 a.m. on 3rd November to 6 p.m. on6th November 2005 as part of 80th Birthdaycelebrations of Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba.Around 9,000 devotees attended the Bhajanall over the State with great devotional fervour.

Global Akhanda Bhajan was conducted inall the 163 Samithis of the State from 6 p.m.on 12th November 2005 to 6 p.m. on 13thNovember 2005. About 5,000 Sai familymembers attended the Bhajan as part of theirSadhana.

Special Grama Seva was one of the othermajor activities that the State undertook inconnection with the 80th Birthday celebrationsof Bhagavan. Nine Adivasi settlement colonieswere covered for the benefit of 950 families.Kits containing rice, pulses, tea powder, sugar,toilet soap, new clothes, etc., were distributed.

P a l g h a t d i s t r i c t c o n s t r u c t e d a n ddistributed 41 houses for the tribals. InThiruvananthapuram two pucca houseshaving 600 sft. each were constructed andgiven to deserving families.

Tamil Nadu: Global Akhanda Bhajan wasperformed in all the Samithis and BhajanMandalis of all the 23 districts of Tamil Naduwith great spiritual fervour and with utmostdedication, devotion and involvement. Theuniqueness of this year’s Akhanda Bhajan wasthe participation of a large number of devoteesthroughout 24 hours of the chanting of theDivine Name of the Lord. At district level,

Akhanda Bhajan was arranged at various SaiCommunity Centres and Sri Sathya SaiMandirs and at Samithi premises. AtSundaram, Chennai, which is celebrating itssilver jubilee year, this year’s Global AkhandaBhajan was of special significance and formedpart of 80 days of Sri Sathya Sai Yajna.

The auspicious celebrations of the80th Birthday of our Beloved Bhagavancommenced at Sundaram with Veda chantingand Nagar Sankirtan in which a large numberof devotees drawn from every part of Chennaiparticipated. Sundaram premises wasshining resplendently as it was beautifullyilluminated with electric lights. Colourfulfestoons and aesthetic flower arrangementsboth inside and outside the Bhajan Hall addedto its beauty.The Vedic rites of Homacommenced with Ganapati Homa followed byAyush, Mrityunjaya and Sundarshan Homas.Prasadam was distributed to all the devoteesafter the Poornahuti. This was followed byAbhishekam of the idol of Shirdi Sai Baba.While the Abhishekam was performed, thedevotees joined in the chanting of Rudram.

Sundaram, Chennai where Bhagavan’s 80thBirthday was celebrated on 23rd November 2005.

NoticeThe stock of all types of calendars is exhausted. Therefore, we are unable to

accept any further orders. - Convener

December 2005 436

SRI SATHYA SAI INSTITUTE OF HIGHER MEDICAL SCIENCESPRASHANTHIGRAM – 515 134, ANANTAPUR DT.(A.P) INDIA

E-mail: adminpg@sssihms.org.in & sssihmspsn@rediffmail.comPhone No.08555-287388, Fax No.287544

Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences (Super Speciality Hospital) atPrashanthigram was set up by Sri Sathya Sai Medical Trust to demonstrate that medicalcare of highest quality even in highly specialised fields can be provided to all totally freeof cost irrespective of their caste, creed, race or religion. The Institute has the followingvacancies for which applications are invited from qualified personnel.

S. No. Department Category of postvacant

No. ofposts

Qualifications and Experience required

1) Cardiology Senior Consultant 1 DM or its equivalent with 12 years teachingand research experience in a recognisedinstitution after obtaining DM orqualification recognised equivalent thereto.

Consultants 2 DM or its equivalent with 5 years teachingand research experience in a recognisedinstitution after obtaining DM orqualification recognised equivalentthereto.

2) Cardio ThoracicSurgery

Consultant Mch.or its equivalent with 5 years teachingand research experience in a recognisedinstitution after obtaining Mch.orqualification recognised equivalent thereto.

1

Junior Consultant 1 Mch. or its equivalent with 1 year teachingand research experience in a recognisedinstitution after obtaining Mch. orqualification recognised equivalent thereto.

Mch. or its equivalent with 12 yearsteaching and research experience in arecognised institution after obtaining Mch.or qualification recognised equivalentthereto.

Medical Officer 1 M.B.B.S. with 3 years experience

3) Urology Senior Consultant 1

437 December 2005

Consultants 2 Mch. or its equivalent with 5 yearsteaching and research experience in arecognised institution after obtainingMch.or qualification recognisedequivalent thereto.

Junior Consultants 2 Mch. or its equivalent with 1 year teachingand research experience in a recognisedinstitution after obtaining Mch. or itsequivalent.

4) Imaging Sciences(Radiology)

Senior Resident (Radiology) /

Medical Officer (Radiology)

M.D or its equivalent / M.B.B.S. withDiploma in Medical Radiology diagnosis.1 to 2 years experience in a hospital isdesirable.

1

5) Nursing Services Staff Nurses Diploma in General Nursing andMidwifery / B.Sc. Nursing with certificateof Registration from any of the StateNursing Councils or the Nursing Councilof India. 3 years experience required forDiploma holders and 1 year experiencefor those who passed B.Sc. Nursing.

6) Cardio ThoracicSurgery

Perfusionist 1 B.Sc. from a recognised University and aDiploma certificate in PerfusionTechnology issued by a recognisedInstitution / Association / Authority.Experience in Clinical Perfusion preferred.

7) Dietary Services AssistantDietician

1 M.Sc. (Food and Nutrition) from arecognised University / Institution with 2years experience in the line / preferably ina large teaching hospital.

Scales of pay: Central Government Scales of Pay and Dearness Pay are applicable. Dearness Allowance and Provident Fund as per the rules of the Institute.

Director

Applications with complete biodata and a passport size photo may be sent to SriSathya Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences, Prashanthigram, Pin-515 134,Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh by 31/01/2006.

December 2005 438

SRI SATHYA SAI INSTITUTE OF HIGHER MEDICAL SCIENCESPRASHANTHIGRAM – 515 134, ANANTAPUR DIST. (A.P.) INDIA

(Accredited By the National Board of Examinations)

Phone: 08555-287388 – Ext: 506, Fax: 08555-287544EMAIL: adminpg@sssihms.org.in

Applications are invited from eligible candidates for undergoing DNB training for three years in thefollowing Specialities.

Minimum qualification1. Super Speciality MS/DNB (GEN Surgery)

Cardio vascular thoracic surgery

2. Broad SpecialityOphthalmology

MBBS & pass in the Primary examination /central entrance test of the National Board ofExaminations.

The Institute offers stipend as prescribed by the National Board of Examinations and single roomhostel accommodation on payment of usual rent.

The selection will be based on the performance in the written, clinical and viva voce tests for CTVSand through interview and objective assessment for Ophthalmology.

The application form and the brochure can be had from Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher MedicalSciences, Prashanthigram, Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh, Pin – 515 134 on payment ofRs. 300/- (Rupees three hundred only) by demand draft drawn on SBI, Prasanthi Nilayam in favourof the SSSIHMS, Prashanthigram.

Director

Admission to Class I (Boys and Girls) and Class XI (Boys only), of Sri Sathya Sai HigherSecondary School, Vidya Giri, Prasanthi Nilayam Post., (Anantapur Dist., A.P.), 515134 will takeplace in June 2006. It is an English Medium, wholly residential school.

Prospectus and Admission Forms can be had from the Principal from 01-12-2005 on cash orpayment remittance of Rs. 50/- through D.D. drawn on SBI, Prasanthi Nilayam (code no: 2786) infavour of the Principal, Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School, with a Self Addressed Rs. 20/-stamped cover of 15 cm x 24 cm.

Last date for issuing the forms from the Principal’s office is 15th February 2006 and last date ofreceiving the forms in this office is 1st March 2006.

Only students coming from English medium classes should apply.

SRI SATHYA SAI HIGHER SECONDARY SCHOOLPRASANTHI NILAYAM

Principal

439 December 2005

(Deemed University accredited by NAAC at A++ level) Vidyagiri, Prasanthi Nilayam-515134, Anantapur Dist., Andhra Pradesh, India

Ph: (08555) 287239, 287191 www.srisathyasai.org.in/sssihl.org E-mail: sssihl@hotmail.com

Admission Notice Admission for the Academic Year commencing from June 2006

will be made for the following Courses:PPPPPrasanthi Nilayam Campus (for Men)rasanthi Nilayam Campus (for Men)rasanthi Nilayam Campus (for Men)rasanthi Nilayam Campus (for Men)rasanthi Nilayam Campus (for Men): B.A., B.Sc.(Hons) in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry,Biosciences, Economics (leading to PG Courses in the respective subjects); M.B.A., M.B.A.(Finance), andM.Tech.(Computer Science).Brindavan Campus (for Men)Brindavan Campus (for Men)Brindavan Campus (for Men)Brindavan Campus (for Men)Brindavan Campus (for Men): B.Com.(Hons)., B.Sc.(Hons) in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Bio-sciences (leading to PG Courses in the respective subjects).Anantapur Campus (for Women)Anantapur Campus (for Women)Anantapur Campus (for Women)Anantapur Campus (for Women)Anantapur Campus (for Women): B.A., B.Com.(Hons), B.Sc.(Home Science), B.Sc.(Hons) in Math-ematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biosciences; M.A.(English), M.A.(Telugu), M.Sc.(Home Science), and B.Ed.Eligibility for Admission:Eligibility for Admission:Eligibility for Admission:Eligibility for Admission:Eligibility for Admission:

Undergraduate Courses:Undergraduate Courses:Undergraduate Courses:Undergraduate Courses:Undergraduate Courses: 10+2 pattern of study/Intermediate. Minimum marks required in the X Std.examination is 60% in aggregate and 55% in General English. Candidates should have taken theirfinal year +2/Intermediate qualifying examination before the date of Admission Test.Postgraduate Courses:Postgraduate Courses:Postgraduate Courses:Postgraduate Courses:Postgraduate Courses: 10+2+3 pattern of study. A First class (minimum of 60% marks in aggre-gate in all the three years of study) in respective degrees with 50% in General English.M.B.A./M.B.A.(Finance) and B.Ed.M.B.A./M.B.A.(Finance) and B.Ed.M.B.A./M.B.A.(Finance) and B.Ed.M.B.A./M.B.A.(Finance) and B.Ed.M.B.A./M.B.A.(Finance) and B.Ed.: 10+2+3 pattern of study. A First class (minimum of 60%marks in all examinations of the course) in any first degree or Postgraduate degree with 50% marksin General English in the first basic degree. Candidates of Technical Courses like B.E., B.Tech.,B.Pharma., B.Sc.(Agri). etc. are exempted from the minimum requirement of 50% marks in GeneralEnglish.M.Tech.(Computer Science)M.Tech.(Computer Science)M.Tech.(Computer Science)M.Tech.(Computer Science)M.Tech.(Computer Science): A First class (60% and above) both in the first degree andM.Sc.(Mathematics)/M.Sc.(Physics)/M.Sc.(Computer Science)/M.C.A./B.E.(Computer Science)/B.Tech. (Com-puter Science) levels of examination with Computer Science background, and the candidates shouldhave formally undergone the following courses: Artificial Intelligence, Computer Networks, ComputerOrganisation & Architecture and Database Systems.Note: Eligible candidates will be short-listed by the Institute based on the marks of qualifyingexaminations. Only such candidates will be called for Admission Test.

In the case of candidates who have not received the marks statements of the final year of the first degreeexamination, their marks in the previous years/semesters should not be less than 60% in aggregate and50% in General English. They should have taken their final year / semester qualifying examination beforethe date of the admission test.Admission to all the above courses will be on the basis of Admission Test and Interview which will beheld in May 2006, at Prasanthi Nilayam, Andhra Pradesh.Application form along with Information Handbook will be available from 1st Dec. 2005 to 28th February 2006.Interested candidates may apply to the Registrar, Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, Vidyagiri,Prasanthi Nilayam - 515 134, Anantapur Dist., A.P. along with I.P.O. or Bank Draft for Rs.50/- forUndergraduate Courses and Rs.70/- for Postgraduate Courses/M.B.A./M.B.A.(Fin)/M.Tech./B.Ed. Courses.The draft should be drawn in favour of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, payable at PrasanthiNilayam/Puttaparthi. Since the application forms are different for each programme, candidates mustindicate in the requisition letter the details of course/subject of study for which they seek admission. Also,the name, postal address and phone number of the candidate should clearly be mentioned inthe requisition letter.

SRI SATHYA SAI INSTITUTE OF HIGHER LEARNING

Registrar