the life and teachings of bhagavan sri sri sri venkaiah swamy (part 2)
DESCRIPTION
SATCHARITRA OF BHAGAVAN SRI SRI SRI VENKAIAH SWAMYTRANSCRIPT
SATCHARITRA OF BHAGAVAN
SRI SRI SRI VENKAIAH SWAMY
THE LIFE AND TEACHINGS OF
BHAGAVAN SRI SRI SRI VENKAIAH SWAMY
(A Parayana Grandha - Enrich Your Life By Remembering‘Gurudeva’ Every Day)
Author :
MAKANI VENKATRAO (Srivari Padarenuvu)(whom Gurudeva fondly called as ‘Venkatramaiah’)
Translated from Telugu into English by
DR. RAMAKRISHNA
VEDURURU NARAYANA RAO
DR. THOLANA ASHOK CHAKRAVARTHY
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© Makani Vekatrao, “Gurunilayam” 20/778, Mulapet, Nellore - 524 003
First print : 2012
Printed at :
Publishers : Bhagavan Sri Venkaiah Swamy Ashramam,
Golagamudi, Vekatachalam (Mandal)
Nellore District - 524321, Andhra Pradesh.
Srivari Padarenuvu had the unique
privilege of serving at the Lotus Feet
of the All-Pervading God, Gurudeva,
for over a decade. This PARAYANA
GRANDHA or call it a Religious Text, is
composed by the Invocation of Divine
Gurudeva, so that ‘truth’ and
‘dharma’ are followed in word and
spirit by the humankind. I pray, the
Life and Teachings of My Lord shall
inspire one and all.
Enrich your life by remembering
Gurudeva every day
- Dedicated at HIS LOTUS FEET
- Author
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FOREWORD(SAPTAGIRI : A Monthly Magazine with pictures, published by the Tirumala
Tirupathi Devasthanams)
Bhagavan Sri Sri Sri Venkaiah Swamy ‘Sathcharita’
Writer Sri Makani Venkatrao
“Gurunilayam” - 20/778, Mulapet, Nellore - 524 003
Bhagavan Sri Sri Sri Venkaiah Swamy is an ‘Avadhuta’, a ‘Maha
Yogi’, a Sadguru belonging to ‘Dattavatara’ tradition. Collecting the
material for writing His biography, Sri Makani Venkatrao has given
a section of it useful for Parayana. Sri Venkatrao is a revered dis-
ciple of Venkaiah Swamy, receiving His Grace and Blessings.
Bhagavan Sri Sri Sri Venkaiah Swamy was born at
Nagulavellaturu of Atmakuru Taluqa, Nellore District, in the year
1855 to Mother Pitchamma, Father Sompalli Penchalaiah Nayudu.
Sri. Venkaiah Swamy showed many miracles since his child hood.
Venkaiah who used to live above caste and religion was always a
sincere hard worker, whether he sowed or reaped harvest, unmind-
ful of the labour involved.
In this book, it is mentioned that Sri Shirdi Sai met Sri Venkaiah,
accepted his hospitality and initiated him. This may be true be-
cause many a time Sri Venkaiah Swamy told that Shirdi Sai was his
elder brother. Just like the ‘Dhuni’ at Shirdi lit by Sai, the Dhuni of
Venkaiah Swamy at Golagamudi, Nellore District is burning con-
tinuously for removing the agonies of many sufferers.
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Sri Venkaiah Swamy entered ‘Samadhi’, by the side of his Dhuni
on August 24th, 1982. The Darshan (just a glimpse) of His Samadhi
is fulfilling the desires of many.
It is said that Sri Venkaiah Swamy roamed in Madras State,
Penchalakona, Koti Theertham, Tirupathi and other religious places,
serving many sages and receiving initiation from them. At Madras
a very great railway disaster was averted by Sri Swamy, says the
author. In this book Sri Makani Venkata Rao has beautifully com-
bined the message of Sri Venkaiah Swamy with the miracles shown
by him.
For example:
“What is the fundamental basis for this world, Swamy?’ - As
if, in complete innocence the Swamy replied, ‘Kindness, Swamy’.
Sri Venkaiah Swamy playing his Tambura -addressing himself as
Swamy, nursing and worrying that the people are unable to under-
stand the basis of the world, says compassion is the root of all
worlds and advised to practice it. Bhagavad Gita also extols the
quality similarly.
Elsewhere, He says that one who vanquishes sleep alone
should worship God. Here, Swamy has made it clear that only
those who can conquer Maya, illusion (sleep) can know God.
But it is very difficult to understand such high Metaphysical
(Vedanthic) statements of Sri Venkaiah Swamy. Sri Makani Venkata
Rao who was showered with the Grace of Swamy has explained
them very lucidly. It is mentioned at the end of the book that very
soon, all such sayings are to be published as “The Geethamrutham
of Gurudeva”.
The writer has collected much information about the Life of
Sri Swamy, not published before and explained them beautifully in
this book.
- JOOLAKANTI BALASUBRAHMANYAM
MARCH 1993
iv
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v
J.Rambabu, IAS (Retd)
Chairman, AP State Financial Corporation
Chairman, Bhagavan Sri Venkaiah Swamy
Ashram Committee, Golagamudi, Nellore
Chairman, Central Dharmic Advisory Council,
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam, Tirupathi
Prayerful Appreciation
It is indeed audacious to pen a Foreword to an exquisite account
of sublime revelation. Out of sheer regard for the author, I am ven-
turing to express my humble views on this inspiring book. The book
is the outpouring of an ardent devotee, who had the singular good
fortune of living with and being a recipient of Love from a realized
soul of our times. Spiritual experience, by its very nature is inde-
scribable. One can only allude to the divine ecstasy presenting
significant events and inspired utterances to convey a mere flavour
of the SPIRIT. The author in this case has ably achieved the impos-
sible. The book is a veritable treasure trove for the seekers of the
ultimate TRUTH. It is full of divine wisdom and is replete with sign
posts to gently guide the seeker in his arduous sojourn to reach
the final destination here and hereafter.
Bhagavan Sri Venkaiah Swamy was an Avadhutha, who lived be-
yond and above the conventional prescriptions ordained by reli-
gious texts. His life itself was a spiritual text. Nay, HE was himself
a holy scripture! His message, full of riddles to the uninitiated,
was the very essence of the lofty traditions bequeathed to us by
the benevolent seers of yore. Sri Makani Venkata Rao, who de-
lightfully christened himself as Srivari Padarenu, has effectively
unraveled the mystic messages of Bhagavan in a language com-
prehensible to all. The exposition is a tour de force of the
Upanishadic knowledge expounded in Bhagavadgita, our vener-
able epics, perennial traditional lore and the spiritual under cur-
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rent in the unbroken millennia old faith, preserved in the collective
memory of the piety.
We are fortunate to be the inheritors of a rich spiritual tradition
without rigid boundaries. We believe that the quest for TRUTH is
an exciting adventure. Such an adventure is not a reckless voyage
in a rudderless vessel. The support, guidance and benediction of a
towering preceptor are a launching pad for such an adventure. The
preceptor lends the endeavour, the much needed focus and direc-
tion for the attainment of spiritual goals by removing the hurdles
that are encountered by the seeker. Sri Makani Venkata Rao and
other blessed souls had the unique privilege of being associated
and inspired by a peerless preceptor, Bhagavan Sri Venkaiah Swamy.
The persons who are the main actors in this book are all ordinary
people. The theatre of events is in most cases part of mundane
lives of simple people. However, the experiences narrated are ex-
tra ordinary. The messages conveyed through their encounters with
Bhagavan are really awe inspiring. The miracles described are a
true manifestation of the boundless love and compassion of
Bhagavan. The anecdotal style adopted by the author at once trans-
ports the readers into the real life events, making them active par-
ticipants and not passive spectators. The benediction of Bhagavan
is thereby assured. The Sanathana Dharma of our Motherland has
nurtured diverse traditions through its liberal, all inclusive scrip-
tures. For instance Dakshina Murti the embodiment of Jnana re-
veals the TRUTH through eloquent silence. A popular verse from
Dakshina Murti Stotram of Adi Sankara is worth quoting.
Mauna vyakhya prakatita parabrahma tatwm yuvanam Varshishta
antevasad rishiganairavrtam brahmanishtaih Acharyendram
karakalita chinmudram ananda roopam Swatmaramam
muditavadanam Dakshinamoorti meede
(Free rendering)
I offer obeisance to Sri Dakshina Murti, who though young in
age is surrounded by disciples who are great sages of ripe age,
adopting CHINMUDRA with his palm conveying the ultimate
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TRUTH through silence, who is full of bliss, has a pleasant coun-
tenance and is the greatest of all preceptors.
Kindly note the parallels with Bhagavan, including the MUDRAM
Conveying spiritual TRUTH in riddles is often found in our scrip-
tures. Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, the largest and one of the old-
est Upanishads narrates a story wherein the Prajapati, the creator
God, conveys the essence of spiritual and ethical life by a single
syllable “DA”. The Devas understand it to mean “Damam-Self con-
trol”. The humans interpret it as “Danam-Charity”. The asuras take
it to mean “Daya-Compassion”. Prajapathi accepts all three infer-
ences. We mortals are a combination of all three qualities (Satwa,
Rajas and Tamas) and therefore we need to cultivate Self control,
Charity and Compassion. Sri Bhagavan in his life conveyed the very
same message in his own inimitable style.
Narada Bhakti Sutras pithily describe the impact of realized souls
in this beautiful verse.
Teerthhee kurvanthi teerthani, sukarmee kurvanthi karmani,
satchastree kurvanthi sastrani
—They sanctify the sacred places, add glory to actions and lend
authority to the scriptures.
This description fits like a glove to the life and message of Sri
Bhagavan.
In the end I would like to convey my deep admiration and warm
appreciation to the author Sri Makani Venkata Rao for joyously
sharing his spiritual experiences with all the seekers. Every page
in this book is brimming with benediction from, Love and Compas-
sion incarnate, Sri Bhagavan. No wonder Sri Adi Sankara has this
to say at the commencement of his famous Advaita Treatise “Viveka
Chudamani”.
Durlahham trayamevaitath devanugraha hetukam
Manushyatwam mumukshatwm maha purusha samsrayah
vii
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—These are three things which are rare indeed and are due to
the grace of God—namely a human birth, the longing for lib-
eration and the protecting care of a perfected sage.
Sri Adi Sankara could have written this verse, with a blessed soul
like Sri Makani Venkata Rao in mind!!
My grateful thanks to the author for giving me the undeserved
honour to express my humble views about a priceless book.
My sincere Pranams to Bhagavan Sri Venkaiah Swami seeking his
continued grace on the author and all the readers of this enlight-
ening book.
J.Rambabu
23-01-2012
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THANKFUL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Sri P. Balasubrahmanyam, IAS (Retd), Chief Executive Office,
Bhagavan Sri Venkaiah Swamy Ashram, Golagamudi, Nellore (Dist),
A.P, deserves a special place and special mention for ensuring that
this Parayana Grandha, titled, ‘The Life and Teachings of Bhagavan
Sri Sri Sri Venkaiah Swamy’ is published on behalf of the Ashram.
In the divine service at Bhagavan Venkaiah Swamy’s heavenly abode
at Golagamudi, Sri Balasubrahmanyam is a virtuous person blessed
by the Bhagavan to be at His service. With an objective to bring to
light the Life and Teachings of Swamy and to implant the seeds of
righteousness in one and all, Sri Balasubrahmanyam was instru-
mental in bringing out this published version of Swamy’s life in
English. This version will definitely throw more light on many as-
pects of Swamy’s incredible leelas and thereby benefit a large sec-
tion of devotees and like-minded people.
From left - Sri P. Balasubrahmanyam, IAS (Retd), Chief Executive Office,
Bhagavan Sri Venkaiah Swamy Ashram, Golagamudi, Sri Makani Vekatrao Garu,
Author and Dr. T. Ashok Chakravarthy, Translator
ix
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Sri P. Balasubrahmanyam is a person of great good repute,
who had been continuously rendering exemplary services in vari-
ous Government departments over the past four decades. Per-
haps for his sincere and dedicated service, by the good stroke of
fortune he was blessed with the privilege to be in the service at
Gurudeva’s Ashram, Golagamudi, Nellore District, Andhra Pradesh.
Free from the restless and agitate worldly affairs, Sri P.
Balasubrahmanyam, is looking after every aspect of the Ashram
by reposing unwavering faith in the Almighty. He undertook a chain
of long-lasting welfare measures for the benefit of Golagamudi
ashram and for the well-being of devotees; both of which are be-
yond describable words.
May the God Almighty shower His Choicest Blessings for the
welfare and prosperity of Sri P. Balasubrahmanyam and his family
members.
With due respects and very special acknowledgements,
Dr. T. Ashok Chakravarthy, D.Lit.,
Poet-Laureate - Doctor of Literature
email: [email protected]
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SRI RAMA
Sri Makani Venkata Rao has faith in God ever since childhood.
Moving with courteous people (Sajjanulu), doing service to Sadhus
and helping the needy are his daily duties. He is a very beloved
disciple of Venkaiah Swamy. By the blessings of Gurudeva he
wrote the book “Satcharitra of Bhagavan Sri Sri Sri Venkaiah Swamy
of Golagamudi‘’.
I have read this book completely. The Leelas of Sri Swamy are
described beautifully in this book. I have a thorough belief that
anyone, whether young, or old, will become a man of noble char-
acter by reading this book.
May auspicious blessings be bestowed on all.
Shubham Bhavathu
G.V.Narasimham,
Principal,
Full Additionai Charge,
Veda & Sanskrit College,
Mulapeta, NELLORE.
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Dear Friend Venkata Rao guru,
Namaskarams.
I was honoured today to read the Life and Sayings of Srivaru.
I could understand Geetha without the help of any commen-
tary. But it is impossible to understand Srivari Sooktas (sayings)
without your commentaries. The Swamy has given that potential
to you. You are lucky.
I found nothing to correct or adjust in your writings. I coud
feel your emotions while writing the events of Srivari Life. Your
pulsations are unique and have the fullness of an emotional writ-
ing.
Emotions need no correction.
Yours,
Dasaradhi Rangacharya
B.A., I.I.B., I.S.,G.D., D.U.M.A.
10-1-688/A, Marredpally,
SECUNDE’RABAD.
xii
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xiii
OM SADGURU PARABRAHMANE NAMAHA
We have to carefully introspect the extent to which we are
putting our devotion to the Guru in practice. On the other hand the
respect towards mother and father is on the decline. Material de-
sires are on the increase. Unrighteousness and despair are all dis-
turbing the peace of the human mind. Devotion to God without
fear of sin is like a house without foundation. Without devotion to
mother, father and the guru, devotion to God does not sprout..
Devotion begins by a desire to do good deeds, honoring elders,
dedication to dharma and speaking only the truth. Whenever dharma
is ignored, the divine incarnation comes.
There is a definite unmistakable link between Sri Sadguru Sai
Natha and Sri Bhagavan Venkaiah Swamy. Sri Baba prophesied
that His skeleton would answer from His Samadhi. In the same
way Sri Bhagavan after leaving the physical body was seen in dif-
ferent places showing His all pervasive nature. People from all
castes visit the Samadhi and are cured of their maladies. During
His life before Maha Samadhi, Sri Bhagavan came many a time to
the house of Sri Venkata Rao. By the divine Grace of Srivaru, till
now in Guru Nilayam the nama-japa and the Aaradhana festival
are being continued.
The Jeeva who is bound by the prarabdha karma does not
know how to recognize a Sadguru and how to get their grace. By
the noble deeds done in the past , Sri Makani Venkata Rao could
get darshan, touch, chance to talk with the greatest of all, the
chance to serve Satpurushas.
Sri Venkaiah Swamy is a divine personality, worthy to be re-
membered in early mornings, fit to be worshipped, a tapaswi,
simple and innocent, eternal, the absolute and a mahatma. His
fame will remain till the Sun and the Moon appear on the skies.
This noble book deserves a place in every devotee’s house as a
daily parayana grantha (a book which ought to be read daily with
great devotion).
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Sadhus and Satpurushas leave the physical wordly ties, being
estabiished in Brahma, remaining always in Nirvikalpa Samadhi.
They enjoy the divine bliss continuously. Though they do not have
any direct link with anyone in particular, their torrential flow of
love cascades all over the world and they have the ability and power
to establish Truth and Dharma. To help the downtrodden and to
protect His devotees, the Lord has become incarnate in our midst.
Though very recently I came to know Sri Makani Venkata Rao,
I was asked to write an introduction. I have very little command
over language. I placed my trouble before the Lord. That night he
blessed me with the visions of Rama, Krishna, Siva, Maruti etc. I
understood that there is no difference between Sadguru and God.
Sri Makani Venkata Rao is a truly dedicated son of Bhagavan
Vankaiah Swamy.
In the service of Sri Gurudeva.
Aadipoodi Durgambarnohana Rao,
President and Honorary Editor
“Emee Ninnu Upekshintunna?”
(Om Sri Sairam)
Monthly Magazine,
Koritipadu, GUNTUR -7
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xv
A SHORT INTRODUCTION WITH
A DEVOUT MIND
- Dr. Mallela Guruvaiah, Madanapally, A.P.
Guru is God
The Master is the Lord Divine
The Divine Lord is the Master
“Yada yada hi dharmasya
glanir bhavati bharata
abhyutthanam adharmasya
tadatmanam srujamy aham”
(Bhagavad Gita Ch – 4, Verse 7)
Meaning :
Whenever and wherever in the world there is a decline in
religious practice and when Adharma dominates and rise
predominantly, at that time I manifest Myself as an incarnation.
Infinite are the expressions of the Lord. Incarnation (avatara)
is one which limits itself in a physical form and shows its miraculous
plays (leelas).
Living amongst crores and crores of beings in a very subtle
form to shower His Grace to cater to the needs and desires of
devotees, the Lord incarnates Himself with different names in
different places as “The Gurudeva”.
Serving the poor - establishing dharma lavishing Universal
Love is the real reason for these incarnations.
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OBJECTIVE AND ESSENCE OF INCARNATIONS
However wicked one may be, the companionship of the incar-
nation removes the darkness of ignorance in the heart and illumi-
nates it by the light of knowledge.
The incarnations come silently and secretly into this world.
They go away in a flash. Few are those who can see them and
fewer are those who recognize them.
Incarnations come down to earth to fulfill divine missions:
After completing the task, they go back to their abode. They do not
have any special or separate place. They are in Brahman and the
Brahman is in them. Therefore dwelling in the Brahman without
name and form, pervading all over and protecting the creation is
the play of the Sarveswara with form.
The Sarveswara taking a physical form, sending forth the illu-
mination of the formless, protecting His devotees and persons who
seek the protection is our divine father, our Gurudeva, Bhagavan
Sri Sri Sri Venkaiah Swamy.
To those who are completely engrossed in the world of the
senses, subjected to a variety of anxieties and troubles, the re-
peated study (parayana) of the noble, miraculous life of Gurudeva,
The Divine Incarnation, is sure to give relief.
Relief means:
Peace, satisfaction, acquiring happiness, the mind becoming
pure, getting divine experience with stead fast devotion and faith.
The divine knowledge - Venkaiah Swamy :
Venkaiah Swamy is the divine five syllable mantra
(Panchakshari). The continuous repetition (Japa) of this mantra,
the performance of Gurudeva’s commands.
“Feed the hunger”
“Save the suffers”
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In a spirit of self - less service (karma yoga) and leading a life
according to the rules of the Sarveswara gives divine knowledge.
The result of serving Gurudeva :
The word’s spoken by Gurudeva - Geetamrutam of Gurudeva -
3rd Chapter – 66th verse.
What is there with Venkaiah
I do not know
Nothing, Swamy
Said the barbers and washermen.
For those in bondage what is your message ?
Sixty persons got
The ‘Chit’ in Heaven
How many are left
See Swamy
Explanation:
What is there with Venkaiah? Why should we serve him? Bar-
bers and washer men that is ignorant people (the caste or profes-
sion is not meant here). Venkaiah had nothing, they thought he
had nothing to give, but was just pretending. What can we tell to
those who are imprisoned in ignorance? Out of a hundred, sixty
think like this. Forty are left. See Swamy. Swamy has emerged from
the heaven. They think that Swamy has brought chits for them. On
every person’s forehead, a chit is written by Brahma. It is known
as the ultimate writing of destiny by Brahma, The divine messen-
ger Venkaiah is capable of explaining this. ‘Fate written on Fore-
head’ i.e., the writing of Brahma. Not only explaining but blessed
them with peace and happiness. Thus they acquire peace and
happiness in the future life. You see divinity in all beings. I alone is
not divine. The whole universe is the form of God, the form of
Venkaiah, your own form. There is no difference between me, you
and God. Acquire this knowledge.
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xviii
THE TRUE DETERMINATION OF THE MASTER
“Son, do not worry. What is it that cannot be done by my in-
spiration? You start writing my biography without hesitation. You
go on writing what I utter, sitting in the lotus of your heart.
(This is a true experience which Gurudeva, my father, gave to
me)
It was Monday midnight, on 30.04.1979. I was in the service
of Swamy, when Swamy was camping at Gurunilayam, Moolapeta,
Nellore. Swamy inspired me to commence this pious book. Sitting
before Swamy along with Sri Veluru Rama Nayudu (a pious soul,
fortunate to get the opportunity to serve the Swamy), by the power
given by Swamy’s divine will, writing of the pious book was com-
menced. The Omnipotent, Omniscient Master observing what was
happening before Him, bestowed divine blessings with His divine
vision and the work has commenced. Thus the writing of the divine
biography started.
Real incidents were collected in details from those who had
faith in Sri Gurudeva’s deeds, those who knew Gurudeva in differ-
ent places, those who took part in His travels and those who spent
their lives in His service and were added continuously to the first
manuscript.
Poojya Sri Paramananda Swamy who matured in the tutelage
of Swamy established the Paramananda Ashram at Somasila. On
the other side of the road Sri Narasimha Swamy Devasthanam was
constructed.
On 1st September 1979, the Divine Master visited this place
with his group of disciples. On 02-09-79 afternoon, Swamy called
me to Him affectionately and said, “Ayya, write down a chit” and
started dictating...
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Details of the ChitOm
Somasila Devasthanam
02-09-1979
The divine vision chit of Bhagavan Sri Sri Sri Venkaiah Swamy.
“Write Down Steadily !
Forty Crore padigalu”
Because these are ‘dictated’ by the divine creator, these are
permanently kept safe, labelled as the creators ‘chits’. The God in
human form, bringing divine blessings, by rotating His hands on
His Sahasrara impregnated the chit by gently pressing it with his
divine hands and made it divine.
Ordering me to go on writing with concentrated dedication,
without succumbing to any mental distraction, giving attention to
the work in hand and to write steadily as
A Master to his servant
A Teacher to his student
A Father to his son
Gave his protection and blessings.
THE SECOND INCIDENT
Sri Narayana Das, the beloved disciple of Swamy and one who
obtained realization in the service of Gurudeva, following the or-
ders, established an Ashram at Talupur village (8 miles from
Podalakur of Nellore District and thereby one mile west of
Kalichedu Village situated on the road going to Gudur from
Podalakur). Swamy consecrated the Divine Mother in His disciple’s
ashram and ordered his disciple to stay there and be in the service
of the Divine Mother. He is living there as per His orders. Gurudeva
used to frequently visit this place and the surrounding places along
with his group giving the residents of the area a chance to see Him
(darshan) thereby obtaining peace and blessings, staying only for
the required allotted duration at each place.
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xx
Gurudeva spent one day during July, 1980 in the temple of Sri
Chennakesava Swamy at Penavarthi Village. He spent one day in
the house of the late Vallapareddy Adinarayana Reddy (the main
person behind the construction of the Ashram building). He is the
son of Smt. Vallapareddy Tulasamma who had the great fortune of
being addressed as “Mother” by Swamy. From there He started in
their car for Talupuru with His troupe. He spent one week there.
In the presence of Swamy at Talupuru, I got the idea to include in
the divine biography of Gurudeva the details of Sri Naryana Das,
who acquired the grace of Gurudeva and other devotees. One day
while I was collecting the experiences of Sri Narayana Das, at
around 4.00 p.m sitting not very far from Gurudeva, Sri Nagaiah
who was near Gurudeva shouted, “ayya! Come here, Swamy is call-
ing you”. The Love Incarnate immediately said, “ayya, let him write”.
After collecting the experiences of Sri Narayana Das and others in
a small note book, I went to Swamy. Immediately the Compassion-
ate Master snatched the small book from my hands and kept it
under his head for the whole night. Any thing on earth becomes
pious by the divine vision and touch. Just as Sriman Narayana makes
the hood of Adisesha as his pillow and sleeps, so also Swamythat
night made the small note book as his pillow and blessed it with
divinity, and eternity. Next morning, looking lovingly at me, with
sweet loving words He said, “Come on who writes’. Giving me back
The Most-Sacred Book(which Swamy kept under His Head for a whole night)
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xxi
the small note book which was soaked in the Grace of Swamy by
being used as a pillow, He said, ‘You continue writing without a
break. I am with you’. Such a Father Compassionate is my Kaliyuga
Avatara Gurudeva, who gave me the courage and mental fortitude.
THE THIRD INCIDENT
In the afternoon of 11.08.80, at about 3 p.m, when “I” ‘the
dust of the Feet of Gurudeva’ (myself) was engaged in massaging
Gurudeva’s feet while taking rest in the temple of Anjaneya Swamy,
Guravaiah another disciple was also present there. On that day
Sri Bala Brahmananda Swamy came to Golagamudi Ashram and
prostrated before Gurudeva. Obtaining blessings from Gurudeva
he went to the old Ashram. While he was deeply engrossed in the
narration of Sri Swamy’s divine leelas with mother Tulasamma,
Sabari Mata Vakkamma and other disciples, I had to go to the old
ashram. Enchanted by the incidents they were narrating and desir-
ous of keeping them safe in writing, I came back to the Anianeya
Swamy temple, took some white papers and was running back to-
wards the old ashram. Seeing this, Gurudeva stopped me saying
‘where are you running’? Sit here. Immediately I sat down near
Gurudeva with white paper in my hands. The compassionate
Gurudeva made me sit for some time near Him bestowing on me
the ability to understand the Writings of Brahma and the capacity
to write it and then allowed me to go to the old ashram. By the
grace of my compassionate father, I could record many incidents
from Sri Bala Brahmananda Swamy. Those details helped me to
write Gurudeva’s biography.
THE FORTH INCIDENT
Poet, friend and a disciple of Swamy, Sri Y. Obul Reddy, a
resident of Pulivendula Taluk of Kadapa district visited Gurudeva
frequently and used to go back after seeking His blessings. He
promised to give slab stones for flooring (naparallu) for the con-
struction of Gurudeva’s ashram. The construction of the ashram
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xxii
was in progress then. On 28.01.182 we went to Pulivendula to know
the whereabouts of Sri Reddy and to get the naparallu. I brought
along with me the manuscript of Sri Swamy’s biography. Under the
auspices of Sri Obul Reddy at the fater–in-law’s house of Sri
Rajasekhara Reddy at Pulivendula, yagna was being conducted.
The sacrifice was finished on 30.01.1982. After that they kept
‘Akhandamulu’ (means to keep the flame burning at the temple of
the divine mother continuously night and day for 40 days). Sri Obul
Reddy took the manuscript of Gurudeva’s biography and kept it
near the Feet of the Divine Mother. Thus this biography was show-
ered with the blessings of the Divine Mother.
THE FIFTH INCIDENT
From 02.10.87 to 1-7.05.89, the fortnightly magazine
“Simhapuri” of Nellore brought out the biography of Swamy in 30
parts and introduced Swamy to the world.
Since June 1987 it is being published serially in the monthly
magazine, published from Guntur. “Yemee ninnu upekshintuna”,
dedicated to spread the message of Sai.
Gurudeva inspired Sri K.V.Ratnam, Director of Ratnam Coach-
ing Centre and his wife to get this material published as the “Biog-
raphy of Sri Sri Sri Bhagavan Venkaiah Swamy” as their offering on
the ninth Aaradhana festival (on 14.09.91)
Sri K.V.Ratnam and his wife
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xxiii
MESSAGE OF GURUDEVA
Feed the Hunger - “Give food to those who are hungry
Save the sufferer - Help those who are in distress”
Maitreya Upanishad - Explanation :
“Prano – annasya rasa -` The essence of food is prana
Manah – pranasay - The essence of prana is mind
Vigyanam – manasah - The essence of mind is wisdom
Anandam vignanasya” - The essence of wisdom is bliss
Food gives and protects Prana. Prana steadies the mind. A
stead-fast mind acquires Wisdom. Wisdom gives bliss. The being
which is in bliss naturally desires to do good deeds and to help
those who are in trouble.
aatmoupadyena sarvatra samam pasyati yo Arjuna
sukham va yadi va dukham sa yogi paramo matah
(Bhagavad Gita - 6ch. 32v)
Arjuna! He who in all situations see others as himself, i.e., he
who compares the distresss of others as his own distress and also
their happiness as his happiness and gives a helping hand, He is
the perfect Yogi.
A Yogi who forgets the world being fully immersed in bliss is
lesser than one who desires the good of the world, works hard
towards that goal.
In the Holy Bible, The Hymn of David – First chapter - the 41
Hymn: it is said – “One who helps the poor is great”.
Holy Quran, in “Sooraye Purkhan” – in the 25th Makki, 71st
sentence, - “One who does good deeds asking forgiveness is the
one who is returning to God”.
Our Gurudeva Bhagavan Sri Sri Sri Venkaiah Swamy is God
incarnate who descended on the earth to show the above precepts
in action.
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PREFACE
Bhagavan Vankaiah Swamy, the Divine Incarnate, a Mahatma
and a Sadguru Form; once we look at Him, he entices us with
spiritual solace and gives bless us with peace abound. A stanch
devotee of His, never had I dreamt that I shall be showered with
such Divine Knowledge and Glory to translate the telugu version
of the unique Parayana Grandha of Swamy’s Satcharitra into English.
Padarenuvu, Makani Venkatrao, the revered disciple of
Gurudeva, who composed the original Parayana Grandha in Telugu
by Swamy’s blessings, has entrusted me with the mammoth task.
By the Will and Command of Gurudeva, the Ocean of Compassion,
I am showered with His virtuous and nectarine blessings along
with knowledge and dedication to grasp the gist of His life and
Teachings. Had not that marvel of Guru’s Grace showered on me;
can it be possible to accomplish such a divine task?
Enslaved by viewing His Comely Form some five years ago,
the very moment my vision fell on His Comely Form, my heart missed
a beat. Then onwards, I felt inspired by His Divine Form of protection
and He never let-me-down to look back in life. Waves of devotion
surged in me by the great good fortune bestowed upon me and I
had several darshans of the God-Incarnate at Golagamudi, the Home
of All Sanctity.
With single-minded devotion, keeping away from most of the
ties of worldly life, when I began the task of translation, I am choked
with emotion to say that, indwelling in me, it is Gurudeva who
accomplished the task. At times, I felt jealous about the unique
experiences of some of Gurudeva’s beloved disciples had, while in
His Service. On one such occasion, Gurudeva, the Compassion-
Incarnate, appeared to me in a dream and gave an astounding
appearance in a posture of ‘Agni Stambana’. Wherein, Gurudeva,
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xv
with His Body Glittering Like Gold, sat in a yogic posture in the
middle of the ‘Agni Gunda’. While the Holy Fire was engulfing His
Form, unmoved in a yogic trance, He was firmly seated with the
Divine Glow getting more and more bright. Even from the deep
sleep, I woke up by the mind-blowing marvel. Perhaps to assure
that I am no less than His Loved Disciples, He demonstrated the
incredible leela of leelas.
Another marvel of marvels is the life-sized idol of Gurudeva
installed at ‘Gurunilayam’, (Padarenuvu’s residence), Mulapet,
Nellore (AP), on 21.09.1993. The idol was etched by sculptor Sri
Sita Ramanjaneyulu (stapathi), a native of Kurnool, who is more
than a family relative of Makani Venkatrao. It took him three long
years to etch the idol and he succeeded only on the third time to
fulfill the task. In the first instance the stone meant for etching
the idol broke, second time while the sculptor was about to begin
the work, he met with an accident. Only on the third time he
succeeded to accomplish the task.
If the photographs taken during September, 1993 and during
August, 2011 are keenly observed and compared - to the
bewilderment of eyes and the elation of heart - you will notice
visible bodily changes taking place in Gurudeva, especially more
visible in His face. Year after year, slight changes are taking place
to the life-sized idol of Gurudeva as similar to the bodily changes
which take place in a human being with the advancing age. (same
may be noticed in the pictures, after the INDEX page in this book)
If such occurrence is visible to the naked eye, one can affirm the
‘truth’ that, Gurudeva is ‘dwelling’ in His Life-Sized Idol at
Gurunilayam, Mulapet, Nellore. Yes, see it and believe it.
I whole-heartedly thank Sri Makani Venkatrao Garu (Srivari
Padarenuvu) for the virtue he provided me to translate the mammoth
religious text from Telugu into English, a task, which I took as a
blessing in disguise Gurudeva.
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The english translation, though tough, I made a humble
attempt to satisfy every reader. I hope, the readers, listeners and
devotees will cherish while going through the Satcharitra.
Last but not the least, I gratefully acknowledge the invaluable
help offered by my wife Smt. Y. Sri Vani, Sri Y. Ramachandra Rao, a
fatherly-person, colleague Sri M.Srinivasa Raju and the architects
behind shaping the book, cover page, layouts, photos, Sri Narahari
and Sri Raghupathi.
May the Grace of Gurudeva shower on every reader and
listener of this Sacred Grandha.
I bow in reverence at His Lotus Feet
O Gurudeva! Shower Your Blessings
Enlighten One and All
Poet-Laureate Dr. T. Ashok Chakravarthy, D.Lit.,
International Poet-Review Writer
Universal Peace Ambassador, Switzerland
Honorary Adviser, BIOU, Malaysia
Vice Chair, Global Harmony Association, Russia
# 16-2-836/L, Plot-39, Madhavnagar, Saidabad,
Hyderabad–500 059 (AP) e-mail : [email protected]
xxvi
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GRATEFULACKNOWLEDGEMENT
With the Divine Blessings of Gurudeva, the translation of telugu versionof ‘Bhagavan Sri Sri Sri Venkaiah Swamy Satcharita’ is accomplishedby three writers into English. I feel sure, influenced by the Will ofGurudeva, the God-Incarnate in Human Form, blessed the three writerswith required devotion, dedication and determination to accomplish thegigantic task.
I acknowledge my sincere thanks to the writer-trio, viz., Dr. Ramakrishna,Sri Vedururu Narayana Rao and Dr. T. Ashok Chakravarthy who havedone their best in bringing out the true translation of the said Satcharitainto English, titled, ‘The Life and Teachings of Bhagavan Sri Sri SriVenkaiah Swamy’.
Dr. Ramakrishna is a former Lecturer at Guntur. He was also apropagator of “Gayatri Mantra”, who extensively toured the country onhis mission. He is one of the persons who took the initiative to begin thetranslation work and has done his best in translating a part of the book inthe initial stages.
Sri Vedururu Narayana Rao is a native of Gotukuru Village, AnantapurDistrict. He is a retired Govt. servant and is an ardent follower of ‘SaiTatwa’, who is now settled in Jeedimetla, Hyderabad. With abundantknowledge of Hindu philosophy, he interacted with many living spiritualsaints. He translated Sri Guru Charitra in Telugu and English fromSanskrit for the benefit of ‘Truth seekers’. He rendered the requiredback-up work of the translation of the said book with extreme devotionand dedication.
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Dr. T. Ashok Chakravarthy is a native of Hyderabad city, a poet inEnglish and is reputed for his literary works across the world. He wasconferred with Doctor of Literature and has translated over six spiritualworks from Telugu to English. He became familiar with uniquepresentation of translation works and received good acclaim from severalreaders. He has accomplished the translation work of Gurudeva’sSatcharitra by relentlessly working on it and was very instrumental toaccomplish this divine task.
Mr. Narahari is a native of Mahabubnagar District, is a talented personin the field of printing techniques. He is well equipped to provide eye-pleasing lay-outs for publication works, cropping of photographs, coverpage designing’s, DTP works and other related works in the sphere ofshaping new books.
I pray and prostrate before my Supreme Guru, Sri Sri Sri VenkaiahSwamy, to shower blessings aplenty so that they lead a peaceful,progressive and prosperous lives
SRIVARI PADARENUVUMakani Venkat Rao‘GURUNILAYAM’
Mulapet, Nellore
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CONTENTS S. No. Particulars Page No.
Foreword iii
Preface xxviii
1. Childhood and adolescence of Swamy 01
2. The way Gurudeva takes food 04
3. Thorough practice - Darshan of Sri Sai 06
4. The power of penance (Tapoyoga) at Penchalakona 10
5. Kanva Maharshi – Darshan of Rishis – Manifestation 12
of the Universal Goddess (Jaganmatha)
6. Arrival at Madras 14
7. Darshan of Kanchi Varadaraja Swamy – Visit to 18
Rajapadmapuram
8. Practice of Yoga at Kapila wells 20
9. Assessment of God 22
10. Koti Teerdham - The Shrine - Its Importance 26
11. Five cognitive senses, viz., smelling, tasting, 33
seeing, touching and hearing
12. Guru’s Name is the greatest Mantra 41
13. Smell (Gandha) 60
14. The Science of Navavidha Bhakti 69
15. Venkaiah is Lord Rama 71
16. Servant Chelama Naidu 72
17. Agni Stambhana 76
18. Can the incredible leelas of the Creation 88
(Srishti) be described
19. The Saying of Gurudeva 93
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20. Measurement of earth 96
21. Controlling and diverting the waters (Jala Stambhana) 106
22. Mudra (The ‘Thumb’ Impressions of Swamy) 120
23. The significance of Mudra (Impressions) 134
24. Significance of Hamsa (Principle of breath) 136
25. Hastamu (Hand) 140
26. The origin of “Abhaya Hasta Mudra” 142
27. Absoluteness (Poornamu) 146
28. The Supreme with the Third Eye (Trinetrudu) 151
29. The History of Golagamudi 155
30. The history of Golagamudi Ashram 160
31. While having food, Gurudeva saying ‘Eat, Eat’ 170
- “Want more”, “Want more”
32. Arranging food for the servants and followers 176
during Gurudeva’s wanderings
33. Gurudeva’s way of dressing 180
34. Sri Kolla Venkata Ramanaiah 184
35. Gurudeva, the Protector of Cattle – His 190
blessings to children
36. Sri Jayarama Raju 193
37. Sri Nooteti Sriramulu Naidu 199
38. Whoever takes food in the village, they shall 200
get rid of their disease
39. Revered Paramananda Swamy 203
40. Gurudeva’s tour of West Godavari district 219
41. Construction of Ashram on the mound of Penna Badwel 222
42. The spectacle of Gurudeva walking over the 224
waters of river Penna
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43. Gurudeva disclosing the past birth of sishya 227
Chalama Naidu
44. The ashram on the mound of Penna Badwel–Theft of jewelry 228
45. Theft of jewelry – Explanation offered by 231
Sri Veluru Subrahmanyam
46. Gurudeva’s wanderings (1957 - Rajapadmapuram) 232
47. Gurudeva’s Narration - Gitamruta 237
48. Gurudeva commanding the Nature (Prakruti) 237
49. Gurudeva visiting Rajapadmapuram (1959) 240
50. Gurudeva visiting Rajapadmapuram (1960) 242
51. The core meaning of what Gurudeva spoke to 246
Jambulingam
52. Sri Adinarayana Reddy (son of Mataji Tulasamma) 248
53. Srishti Cheeti of Gurudeva 269
54. Mataji Vakkamma 272
55. Curing Leprosy - Giving a new lease of life by Gurudeva 280
56. Discourse of Gurudeva 282
57. Trikalavedi (The All-Knowing) 286
58. Commanding the Nature (Prakruti) 292
59. Controlling the force of overflowing stream 293
60. The Ashram of Sri Balananda Swamy 295
61. The Omniscience of Gurudeva 297
62. Gurudeva, the Life-giver 300
63. Gurudeva’s teachings on non-violence 303
64. Gurudeva, the Compassion Incarnate - Renovation 313
of Siva Temple at Talupur
65. The benefit of offering alms 314
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66. Gurudeva’s visits 316
67. The divine sport (leelas) of Swamy 327
68. Recitation of Guru’s Name - Accomplishment of task 329
69. Attaining Moksha in the Divine Presence of Gurudeva 330
70. Gurudeva’s blessing - Gaining vision and wisdom 331
71. Gurudeva’s saying, I will come back after having a sea-bath 334
72. Guru Bhagavan’s Divine Touch - Water aplenty 337
73. Grandhi Ramaiah 347
74. Nuvvula Keshavaiah 350
75. Veluru Rajappa Naidu 352
76. Gurudeva’s Abhaya Mudra - Equivalent to Sri Rama Raksha 354
77. Chi. Nivedita 357
78. The Skylab incident 358
79. Sri Kasturi Ankama Naidu 360
80. Akkim Venkatrami Reddy 363
81. The All-Protective Thread (raksha bandhan) 364
82. Sri Chunduru Nagaiah 368
83. Sri Polireddy - Gurudeva’s beloved disciple 373
84. Sri Karreyya 375
85. Revered Smt. Chella Subbamma 378
86. Revered Sri Kuncha Venkataiah 385
87. Revered Disciple Narayana Dasu 392
88. Sri Velooru Rama Naidu 409
89. His Holiness Sri Chidananda Swamy 422
90. Sri Korakooti Guruvacharyulu 427
91. Sri J.C. Penchalaiah 433
92. Sri Nooteti Appaiah 436
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93. Sri Bala Brahmananda Swamy 442
94. Sri Atmakuru Venkaiah, Indukurpeta village 450
95. The Srishti Cheeti of Nagula Vellaturu Village 462
96. Sri Chekuru Pitchaiah 465
97. Sri Mopuru Dasharatharami Reddy 478
98. Sri Nuteti Adepa Naidu 488
99. Sri Rayi Gopalaiah 492
100. Sri Mallika Venkaiah 495
101. Sri Sompally Rama Naidu 496
102. Sri Komaragiri Ramanaiah 497
103. Rendering selfless service to Gurudeva by disciples 498
104. The group of Gods (Devaganamu) before the Godhead 502
105. Sri Veluru Narasappa Naidu 504
106. Srivari Padarenuvu, in the service of Swamy – Construction 505
of Ashram
107. Foundation Laying Ceremony 509
108. Gurudeva’s Divine Assurance 547
109. What a great good fortune Swamy bestowed on me 547
110. Guru Bhagavan’s Maha Samadhi 548
111. The Sacred day of Guru Bhagavan’s Maha Samadhi 562
112. The Glory of Maha Samadhi 565
113. Publication of Article in ‘Simhapuri’ (a weekly journal) 566
114. Rare Articles of Swamy 568
115. Sayings of Gurudeva 570
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Life-size idol of Bhagavan Sri Sri Sri Venkaiah Swamy (in a sittingposture), installed at ‘Gurunilayam’, Mulapet, Nellore District
(AP) during September.1993Note : Keenly observe the physical features of Swamy at that time.
A MARVEL !
1993
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Physical features of the same idol are ‘Miraculously’ undergoing achange (visibly noticed), year after year in accordance withadvancing age of a living human being. (This can be ascertainedwith this latest photo taken during August,11) Is it not a marvel!!!
A MIRACLE !
2011
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