June For Web

Volume 5 Issue 6 www.radiosai.
org 1st June 2007

Pranams at the Lotus Feet
D E V E LO P E D BY
Prashanti Nilayam
& S.N. Informatics
Bangalore
mail us for details : h2h@radiosai.org

Volume 5 Issue 6
1 June 2007
BETWEEN YOU AND US 3
SPIRITUAL BLOSSOMS
SATHYA SAI SPEAKS - THE KEY TO LASTING BLISS 5
CONVERSATIONS WITH SAI - Part 33 6
CHINNA KATHA - SELF-CONFIDENCE, SUCCESS AND GOD'S GRACE 9
COVER STORY
CANADA'S CROWN JEWEL - THE SATHYA SAI SCHOOL IN TORONTO 11
FEATURE ARTICLES
THE GREATEST WONDER OF THE WORLD 50
THE SAI MOVEMENT IN CHILE 36
IS THE WORLD A STAGE? 55
SERIAL ARTICLES .
SHIRDI SAI PARTHI SAI - Part 30 52
GITA FOR CHILDREN - Part 31 55
WINDOW TO SAI SEVA
GLIMPSES OF STIRRING SEVA IN EUROPE 58
PRASHANTI DIARY
CHRONICLES OF HEAVEN ON EARTH 65
Heart2Heart - Radio Sai's e-Journal, June 2007 (Vol. 5, Issue 6) www.radiosai.org 001
Volume 5 Issue 6
Contents 1 June 2007
H2H SPECIAL
"HE IS MY SWAMI" Part - 2 92
SWAMI AND ME
THE SOURCE, SWEETNESS AND SUSTENANCE OF MY LIFE – MY SAI 98
THE BLISS OF HIS PRESENCE 100
LOVE THAT CANNOT BE DUPLICATED 106
GET INSPIRED
DO WE NEED CHALLENGES? 110
A BEAUTIFUL RELATIONSHIP 111
IN THE COMPANY OF THE VIRTUOUS 113
TEST YOUR SPIRITUAL QUOTIENT
MULTI-FAITH QUIZ 114
QUIZ ON HEART 2 HEART 117
PHOTO GALLERY
IT'S HEAVEN! GLIMPSES OF KODAI 2007 119
HEALING TOUCH
A MOTHER'S AGONY ...When desperation evokes divine intervention 123
YOUR SAY
FEEDBACK FROM OUR READERS 126
SAI INSPIRES
SAI INSPIRES 129
002 Heart2Heart - Radio Sai's e-Journal, June 2007 (Vol. 5, Issue 6) www.radiosai.org
BETWEEN YOU & US
Dear Reader, transplanted on other soils and encouraged to grow,
This happened nearly four decades ago. Swami landed in without roots…. This is the reason, I have decided that
Mumbai after His fourteen day East African trip and was this college has to be inaugurated on Guru Poornima Day
in a great hurry to visit Anantapur en route to Bangalore. on Guruvar - Thursday - as a Gurukula - the hermitage
It was June 1968. Just after a month, Swami returned to school of ancient India in which the highest ideals of life
the city of Anantapur, the official capital and the biggest were instilled by personal example and guidance by the
town of the district, to unfold to the world His advent's Guru to the pupils eager to imbibe.” Swami concluded
one very significant mission; He was inaugurating a with a visionary declaration: "The seed has been planted;
college for women in Anantapur. What He said on that it will sprout and spread, heavy with fruits, providing
occasion set the pace for the Sri Sathya Sai education shade, security and sustenance to all."
mission. And forty years later what do we see? The hallowed Sri
"The prompting behind this College is not the search for Sathya Sai University which completed twenty-five years
reputation or the desire to propagate a cult, or the hope of its glorious existence just last year was christened
of monetary profit. Fame is a fickle figment! Reputation recently as the 'crest jewel' among universities in India by
rots quite soon. Profit, when it is calculated in terms of the National Accreditation council. And it is not only the
cash, defiles. I have allowed this College to rise because it University with its three campuses - there is also the
will install in the minds of the students, the ideals of higher secondary school with its primary wing
Truth, Righteousness, Peace and Love - ideals delineated performing the difficult task of laying sturdy foundations
in the Vedas, described in the ancient scriptures, on which the beautiful mansions of character are later
illustrated in the Epics, practised by countless generations built. Incidentally, in the just-out XII class CBSE results of
and confirmed by experience, as best suited for individual the higher secondary school, all the 116 students secured
and social progress. Every child born…has the right to above 75 percent and more than 50 percent have
know and benefit by this precious heritage….(just like) obtained more than 90 percent marks. Though discipline,
agriculture is for living; Atma-culture is for success in life.” service and sadhana are the first, second and third
languages of this school, academics are never a casualty.
Three years later, Swami was in this city again, now to
In fact, emphasis on character-building has only ensured
preside over the inauguration of the college's magnificent
and encouraged sharp learning, be it secular or
new building. And what He said on that Guru Poornima
otherwise.
day, the day dedicated to the Supreme Preceptor, in the
presence of the then President of India and his wife, was But it is not only the Sathya Sai University or the high
as prophetic as it was profound. school in Puttaparthi where Swami's education mission is

firing on all cylinders making enlightened citizens out of
"India is being forged into a Bhogabhoomi - land of luxury
ordinary boys and girls. It has now become a revolution.
- a land of skyscrapers, tinned foods, air-conditioning and
Swami's concept of Educare (manifesting the latent
television. Indians are being shaped into an imitative,
values within) has now spread to literally every corner of
insurgent, ill-disciplined mass. They are being
BETWEEN YOU & US
the globe, from Mexico and Ecuador, to Zambia and teaching) so much so that the school has no janitorial
South Africa, to Fiji and Australia. And what is being done staff? Why do the parents of this school go out of their
in these temples of learning - some tiny and some mighty way to help the school and organize mega events to
- is truly eye-opening. promote human values?
Did you know that the Sathya Sai School in Canada, which Many of the people working in this school have not even
is in its sixth year now, was awarded a 'Perfect Ten' score in seen Swami physically; some have had a fleeting glance
academics by the Fraser Institute, the British Columbia maybe once in their lives, and for many He is what they
based think-tank, because all the students met or see only in the big photo that is framed on the school
exceeded the expectations of the Ontario curriculum? But wall. Nevertheless one thing is common - no matter
equally significant is this: every year the young hearts what, they feel His Presence there every moment. His love
here collect over half a tonne of vegetarian, non- inspires them to stretch themselves to their limits to
perishable food items for the Food Bank used by the create beautiful beings out of young minds. And this is
needy residents of the city of Toronto. And do you know true not only in the Sai School in Toronto. In Greece, Sai
how they celebrate Valentine's Day? Interestingly, for devotees are cleaning an area of some hectares of litter
these children it is Valuentine's Day when they go to the (tins, bottles, plastic bags, papers, etc.) in Parnitha forest;
old age homes and sing songs and share gifts with the in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sai volunteers have
elderly who long for such love. And in February every year, conducted medical camps for the neglected; in Slovenia a
while all the trees are covered with snow in Toronto, these family of five was saved from pitiable poverty; and in
kids have a “mitten tree” which only grows in size every Switzerland, an eighty-three year old lady whom nobody
day of this month with their personal contributions of cared for, now has a house as bright as her smile. And
mittens, gloves, scarf's, hats, etc., for the homeless. back in India, a mother who had resigned herself to the
Darini, one sweet kid of this school says, “CHC - Children cruel fate of losing her only child now says, “This Swami's
Helping Children is my favourite project... In the last two hospital is God” speaking of the Sri Sathya Sai Heart
years I have worked hard, done chores at home, sacrificed Hospital in Rajkot.
birthday parties and new year gifts to raise $700 to bring Truly, all beautiful things in the world have their origin in
joy to children I haven't met…I love to make a difference.” love. In fact, this world itself is born from love. As Swami
Thanks to its dedicated teachers, spirited volunteers and says, “I separated myself from myself so that I can love
enthusiastic and eager students, yes, this school is surely myself.” Umpteen are the occasions when Swami has said
making a difference. It has enlightened parents, to the students, “All you need to develop is love… if you
awakened the local community, and inspired hundreds have the quality of love within you, you can secure
every year to take to the path of Truth, Peace and Love. anything for yourself and others...you can change the
When you read the cover story of this issue, you will know world.” That is what the Sathya Sai School in Toronto is
how the “seed” that Swami planted years ago has doing, the same is happening in the Puttaparthi,
sprouted and spread its fragrance thousands of miles Anantapur,and Brindavan Universities and schools, and
away from Prasanthi Nilayam. What inspires teachers this is exactly what each one of us has to do: Just improve
here to put in tremendous man-hours to integrate human our Love Quotient and soon heaven will not be a utopia.
values into the Ontario curriculum? Why do volunteers Let us allow love to rule us.
here do practically every odd job here from vacuuming
Loving Regards,
and mopping to secretarial services (apart from helping in
– Heart2Heart Team
SPIRITUAL BLOSSOMS
SATHYA SAI SPEAKS

The Key to Lasting Bliss
All worldly pleasures are transient and temporary. Very

often they result in sorrow and disappointment. God
alone is the source of enduring bliss. The purpose of
human birth is to realise the inherent divinity in man.
Once, a great Maharaja (ruler) held a big exhibition of
paintings and art products. The finest works of art were
on display. The exhibition was open to one and all. The
king announced that anyone could walk in and take away
whatever one liked. Large numbers of men and women the lady. True to his word the Maharaja surrendered
went to the exhibition and took back with them whatever himself to her. When the Maharaja himself became hers,
they fancied. all that was in the exhibition also became hers.
The Whole Universe Can Become Yours
This cosmos is a vast exhibition. It is the creation of the
Lord. All are entering this exhibition and taking whatever
they choose. Some seek jobs, others wealth and so on.
They are content to take objects of their choice. But no
one asks the question: "Swami! If I take away one thing or
another, what is it that I gain? If You become mine all
these will become mine." When you have entered the
Cosmic exhibition, you must seek the Divine. Then, the
whole universe becomes yours. You must seek that which
is lasting and unchanging. There is no meaning in going
after one thing after another. There is no end to that
process. There is no satisfaction in that. What you acquire
today, loses its charm the next day and you desire
something new. But once the Divine is attained, all things
are obtained.
In the cosmic exhibition, you are seeing, hearing and
The Whole Universe Can Become Yours
experiencing innumerable things. You experience
Among them was a lady. She saw everything in the depression, confusion and disappointment. You have no
exhibition. She came out through the main door without contentment. "Asantrupto nijo nashtah." (Lack of
taking anything with her. The Maharaja noticed that of all contentment is the true loss). The man who is not content
the persons visiting the exhibition she was the only one to is continually experiencing loss. There is no limit to
come out empty-handed. He was curious to know what desires. One feels hungry, another is thirsty. If the thirsty
the reason for this was. He asked the lady: "Madam, how man is offered water, he is not satisfied, he wants a cool
is it you have found nothing to interest you in the drink. When he is given a cool drink, he is not satisfied, he
exhibition? There are so many attractive things on wants ice cream. And so on. He is not satisfied with
display. Was there nothing that pleased you?" She replied: anything.
"There are innumerable desirable things in the exhibition."
There is no end to desires for material things in the world.
The Maharaja asked: "But was there nothing which you
To get rid of these desires, man must turn his mind
wanted?" "No," she said. The Maharaja said · "If that is so,
towards God. That is the way to achieve contentment and
tell me what you desire and I shall give it to you." She said:
lasting bliss.
"Maharaja, will you promise to give me what I want? Is
your offer genuine? Will you keep your word?" "Certainly,"
replied the Maharaja. "If that is so, I want only you," said Divine Discourse to students in Ooty, 16 April, 1988
SPIRITUAL BLOSSOMS
People, the world

CONVERSATIONS over, do not know
they are Divine. They
WITH SAI - Part 33 do not even realize
(Continued from previous issue)
what it is to be
human. They have
ego, anger, greed,
The Purity of Sai
envy, lust, hatred.
H (Hislop): I have asked important persons around Sai if
These are not human
Sai is all-knowing at all times, or only when He so chooses.
qualities; they are
They give different answers.
animal qualities.
SAI: Sai knows everything.
Unless Sai devotees
People are in doubt due to
are, at the very least,
the Maya of the Avathar.
human persons free
You know that Sai is in your
of animal qualities or
heart, yet you think, "Is Sai
characteristics, how can such devotees suggest spiritual
upstairs in His room, or is
life to others? Such suggestions will have no impact, if
He elsewhere?" It is the
devotees in general are not yet free of animal
human element. The body
characteristics. There should be in each Sathya Sai Baba
has the name of Hislop, but
Center two or three members who live a life as true
you are not the body. You
human beings.
are the Atma (spirit). There
is no desire in Sai. There is The individual does not progress alone. He is not separate
total purity only. This from Society, and he must do his bit to uplift the society.
entire body is Amrith (nectar). Where is there space Therefore, the individual's work to free himself from
for desire in Sai? Everything is already mine. Sai does animal characteristics and to live a spiritual life is not
not think. My will is immediately realized. done for himself, but is done for all of God's creatures.
The work of freeing the individual's nature from animal
Whatever it may be, it instantly appears; an envelope,
qualities is done, in love, for God, and done in His Name
gold, everything. Where is there room for desire? I have
and with His help.
no thought. If I think, it is for you, it is not for Me. Sai
requires no food. If I eat, it is for the benefit of everyone. If Each member of the Sathya Sai Baba Center should
I give Darshan, it is not for Me, it is for others. I am talking work very hard to purify the quality of his life, and the
to you now - it is for you, not for Me. A point does not goal should be to lead a perfect life, an ideal life; to be
appear in Sai. First a point, then disappoint! I am always an ideal exemplar of the divine teachings of Bhagavan
the same. I am love, always love. If there are angry words, Sri Sathya Sai Baba.
that is action. Inwardly, I remain the same. I have the The world will respond to the ideal life of a Sai
same tender love for that person. devotee. The world is yearning for the ideal life and
H: Swami, some tragedy happens to a person, and they will, of its own accord, adopt such a life if it comes
try to find a reason for it in the actions of this lifetime. into view. They will respond, and they will follow such
a life.
SAI: Yes, that can be.
H: Swami, does that mean that our Centers should now
H: But I thought that all that happens in this life is the
move beyond the task of working with Center members
result of our behaviour in past existences.
and tackle the world?
SAI: Not always. Something could happen with its cause
SAI: The Center members must carefully work to become
in this life.
truly human before they venture to instruct the world.
The Goal is to Realise Our Divinity
SAI: How do you like the pictures? (i.e. portrait
H: Swami, please restate or redefine the goal, the
photographs for the college building to be dedicated on
objective of the American Sathya Sai Organization.
the 23rd).
SAI: It is not just the American, it is the objective for the
Robert Bozzani (RB): We were afraid they were too
worldwide Sathya Sai Organizations.
large.
CONVERSATIONS WITH SAI - Part 33
SAI: They are not too large. Swami's picture will be the H: Then what makes the difference? What is the
same size. Do you like the pictures? difference in man that he would make one choice or the
H: Bozzani looks like a movie star! other?
SAI: No, no. He is smiling, whereas Mrs. Bozzani is more RB: That is what I want to know, too.
serious. Come, sit down. Realising God Through Love
SAI: Love is the dominant reason. Compassionate love is
Evolution to the Human
SAI: At the center everything is liquid. pure love, unselfish. In the animal there is love, but it is
mixed with lust. But compassion is pure love. Only man
RB: Does Swami mean the world?
has compassion. Through love he may realize the oneness
SAI: Yes, everything is melted. No temperature. of life, and in this way, by love, he will be one with God.
RB: No heat, Swami? H: Then, Swami, man can definitely realize God while in
SAI: No temperature. Everything is liquid. Like water, the human birth?
Gold, iron, silver, gems, all are liquid. Next there is solid. SAI: Yes.
Then trees.
H: But suppose he fails in that, and thus eventually finds
H: Trees, Swami? Trees like we see around us? himself as a being above the sensory level, what then?
SAI: Yes, trees. Then SAI: The same holds true. God is love and wherever there
human beings and is pure love and love only, that is God. Love is everything,
animals. At the very but people do not understand love. Their understanding
center is the Divine. It is is confused. For example: There is a child. Mother and
the support of father love the child with pure love. The child is kissed and
everything. First is liquid, fondled and showered with affection. This is the action of
chemistry. Then solid, pure love. In this action there is no lust; there is no lust in
physics. Then trees, that love. Another example: A father is 40 years old. There
botany. Then man, the is the wife and the daughter who is 18 years of age. The
pinnacle of life. But at the love of the father for his family leads him to kiss his
center, supporting all, is daughter. In this action of love, there is no lust. It is pure
the Divine. Without the love, compassion. The husband also kisses his wife, and in
Divine, where is this kiss there is some mixture of lust. In both cases, the
c h e m i s t r y, p h y s i c s , kiss was the action of love, but the love was different.
botany? This will be the teaching of all courses at the
University. The students will understand the full picture.
H: In this picture, Swami, where do the devas and
demigods and other creatures of the cosmos fit in?
SAI: They are above the senses. Man is below the senses.
Those others are above the senses.
H: But all must come to be humans in order to merge
with God, is it not so?
SAI: Not totally so. There is love.
H: Then, can man take a further step and go into the
world above the senses.
SAI: That is possible
H: Swami, that is a wonderful explanation. The difference
H: But is it not possible to realize the Self, or merge with is very clear, and very important to understand.
God, while in the human state?
SAI: Pure love, Divine love is everything.
SAI: Oh, yes. That can be done.
RB: How do human beings realize and become that
H: Does Swami mean that both possibilities exist, that divine, pure compassionate !ove?
man could go one way or the other?
SAI: It will come with sadhana. There is a big mistake
SAI: Yes, one way or the other. in the consideration of meditation as the principal
SPIRITUAL BLOSSOMS
sadhana. What is meditation? Meditation controls

the mind. It is mental. The genuine sadhana is that
pure love which is not different from the Divine.
Seeing the Good in All

H: In America, when they hear of Sai, some people declare
that he is the Anti-Christ.
SAI: Some individual ideas of some people. Goldstein has
individual ideas. Hislop has individual ideas. I know what
is not good, and I know what is good. All my ideas and
actions are based on what is good for the world. I am
pure, I have no worries, I have no anxieties, I am happy
always, I have no anger. I want nothing, take nothing, do
nothing for myself. All I think, all I do at all times is for the
good of the world.
H: We could also have the same ideas by doing as Swami
does.
SAI: Yes, to follow Swami is the important thing. To
follow this example is best.
RB: I am trying to follow Swami's instructions.
SAI: Trying? Trying is no good. Do it! Do it!
H: We can ask Swami for strength!
SAI: I will give strength! Sometimes there is wavering of
faith in Sai. Thoughts arise, "Why does Sai do this? Why H: This year, with the new University and the teachers'
does He do that?" Peter was near and dear to Christ. But training plan for instruction in human values throughout
he denied Christ. the entire school system of India, I can see that Sai is
getting hold of India.
H: Did he deny Christ because of fear for the safety of his
body? Because of feeling that he was the body? SAI: Amongst the spiritual leaders of India there is some
jealousy.
SAI: Yes. It was because of body identification. Judas
was also near and dear. He was a good devotee. Jesus H: But they do not have public works. Only Swami is
did not divide the disciples into good and bad. doing that.
H: I pray that my faith in Sai will not waver. SAI: Sai Baba is working for the public twenty-four
hours a day. Even the interviews are public work.
SAI: The important thing is to do good and be good.
Twenty-four hours per day, 365 days per year. Not
Do not see the bad. See only the good.
even one holiday.
Swami's Work Never Ends
H: But that is beyond man. It is possible only for the
(Conversation while in a car)
Divine.
SAI: This land (on our left beside the University) was
SAI: Yes. Only for the Divine. I need no holiday. I am
bought today.
always happy, always in bliss.
H: Today! How far does it go?
SAI: All of it, 28 acres. Cost is a lakh of rupees per acre. (To be continued)
H: That is expensive. The new buildings have raised the
price.
SAI: Some owners are asking 3 lakhs per acre. Some years
ago, the land was 100 rupees per acre.
H: Will more buildings go up on this new land?
SAI: Yes. More buildings. Laboratory, library, and
housing for instructors and their families.
CHINNA KATHA
and treasure.” It was the Manthra of Mother Goddess

CHINNA KATHA Kali, and he whispered it into the ear of Ramakrishna.
Self-confidence,
Success and God's Grace Ramakrishna was overjoyed at the great gift. He retired
A Little Story From Bhagavan into a temple of the Mother, deep in the recesses of the
jungle and was intent on the meditation of the Mother,

Tenali Ramakrishna, the famous poet, humorist and
propitiated by the manthra.
philosopher, from the state of Andhra Pradesh once
happened to lose his way while traversing an area of thick
jungle. He lived in the reign of the famous Emperor
Krishnadeva Raya, of the Vijayanagara Dynasty, about
1500 AD. He was attached to the Court and was
honoured as a wise and quick-witted minister.
At midnight one day, the aboriginal Koyas of the forest
came into the temple with a goat which they sought to
offer as sacrifice to please Her and propitiate Her.
Ramakrishna hid behind the idol and when the knife was
While he was wandering desperately in the jungle, he saw
about to fall on the neck of the victim, he exclaimed, “I am
an old sage. Ramakrishna ran forward and fell at his feet,
the Mother of all living beings, including you. If you kill
in reverential homage. He asked the sage, how he had
my child, I will curse you, I cannot bless you!” Believing
become caught in that wild forest. The sage said, “The
that it was Kali who spoke, the Koyas desisted and went
same Mysterious Force that dragged you here has
away.
dragged me too to this spot. The moment when I have to
Now, Kali manifested before Ramakrishna. She asked him
cast away the body which I have occupied so long, has
what he would like to receive from Her! She was pleased
arrived! I shall initiate you, now, into the manthra (sacred
with his Sadhana (spiritual practice). “Which do you
hymn) which I have recited all these years as my talisman
want?” she queried, holding a plate of curd-rice in one
SPIRITUAL BLOSSOMS
hand and a plate of milk-rice in another. He wanted to
know the consequences of eating either plate before
deciding which plate to ask for. She explained, “The
curds-rice will endow you with riches and economic
prosperity; the milk-rice will make you a wise scholar.
Now, make your choice.”
Kali was indignant and exclaimed that his impertinence
called for dire punishment. Ramakrishna accepted his
mistake and invited the punishment she proposed to
inflict. But can the Mother's punishment destroy the
child, however reprehensible the conduct of the child
may be? “My sentence will certainly save you, do not
Ramakrishna thought within himself, “It is no good being tremble,” said Kali. Then she pronounced the sentence
a fool in possession of vast riches; nor, will scholarship fill thus: “Become a Vikatakavi.” That is to say, “Be a clever
the stomach, three times a day.” He was a clever person! clown, having great influence at court, accumulating
So, he asked a further question, “I see two plates before much wealth and guiding all those who approach you
me. Before I make the choice, tell me how each will taste.” with good advice.”
She laughed and said, “How can I describe the taste and God loves those who have self-confidence and the
make you understand the difference? You will have to courage of their convictions and who seize every
taste them yourself,” and gave him both the plates, for opportunity to improve their spiritual status.
that purpose. - Baba
The clever Ramakrishna hastily put them both in his
mouth and managed to swallow the curds and the milk,
the entire quantity of rice from both plates!
COVER STORY
educator and parent's

dream, and quite
CANADA’S CROWN JEWEL...
understandably so. The
The Sathya Sai School realities of a typical 11
in Toronto year old girl's school life
in North America tend to
be a stark contrast to the
“I am an eleven year old girl. And I am learning about above testimony, and
the world around me, and yes, inside of me too. Every the experience is
morning I look forward to coming to school as there is universal, be it in
a warm environment welcoming me. It was like that California or Calgary,
on my first day of school and seven years later, it still Tulsa or Toronto. The
is. Grade 6 student issues more likely to
Prarthana Tirikollur dominate the "teen
My training ground is extraordinary; every wall,
scene" are peer pressure, stress, low self-esteem, poor
ceiling and door is made up of love and sacrifice. I feel
body image, weak impulse control, rebelling against
it everyday. This is something that can never be
parental and teacher authority, excessive TV, internet and
recreated. We're all one big family.
cell phone dependency, obsession with clothes, make-up
And to tell you the truth, this school is my motivation,
and may even include anorexia, bulimia, and
because it fuels me to only do what I know is right.
experimentation with substance abuse a far cry from the
Here, I am taught to respect everyone, because each
wishful reflection above. Yet, there is a very real girl
of us is special and unique and no one can ever change named Prarthana Tirikollur and the utopian scenario
that. I have learnt to be understanding of the painted above is no myth for her. It is indeed a page from
differences around me, and most importantly I am her life, her experience and her truth. And yes, she lives in
learning to accept who I am. I can say that we are trees a North American metropolis. It is her reality.
that stand strong in the garden of life.
Ontario Wakes Up to Character Education
Another wonderful aspect
Given the state of our world,
is that here every student,
it is not surprising that one of
just like me, has a close
the great conversations of
relationship with their our times has centered on the
teacher. We have the issue of education, its aim
freedom to express and purpose. Recognizing
ourselves and feel the love the poverty and stark
and respect that vibrates in disparities around us as
the environment. It is this symptomatic of the systemic
sublime milieu that has Toronto
decay in our values,
made me achieve so many CANADA stemming largely from
goals and dreams. I am ignorance, greed and
truly, truly grateful. I know insensitivity towards others,
God has created this entire policy pundits in North
universe for a reason, and Toronto, capital of Ontario, America and elsewhere have
we all are on this earth to Canada’s largest province been calling lately for the
find our purpose in life.” renewal of ethical
- Testimony of a Grade 6 North American student commitment and deepening of the spiritual sense among
all people.
Myth or Fact?
Anyone familiar with the life and challenges of a typical Shocking incidents such as the recent massacre at
Grade 6 student in a North American school is likely to Virginia Tech or the Columbine high school killings a
dismiss the above confession as a myth or a utopian couple of years ago in the USA send educators scrambling
fantasy. Some may define it as a concoction of someone's to the drawing table, seeking solutions for a system that
wishful thinking; yet others may consider it to be every is increasingly failing to deliver. Some of the buzz words
COVER STORY
emerging as possible solutions from this animated heart as well as the head; it includes a focus on the
dialogue are “character education” or “values-based whole person the cognitive, affective and behavioural
learning”, “environmentally sustainable development” domains of learning. It means preparing students to
and “carbon footprints”. be concerned citizens who have empathy and respect
Recently, Canada's largest province, Ontario appointed a for people within their increasingly diverse
special task force to oversee the development and communities. It means providing opportunities for
implementation of the province's Character Education students to understand deeply the importance of
program for Ontario's public schools and to develop civic engagement and what it means to be a global
appropriate teaching aids and methodologies, a move citizen in an increasingly interdependent global
received warmly by observers and parents. While some community. An approach to teaching that is infused
see it as the government's response to the growing with character development is education at its best.”
problems of indiscipline, bullying, racism and such in - Avis Glaze, 2006
Ontario schools, others point to Character Education as Finding Common Ground, Character Development in
the key to making Ontario's schools relevant to the Ontario Schools, K-12
current reality and its challenges.
For those versed in Sathya Sai Education, the above quote
Values Education - The Need of the Hour sounds so familiar. For decades now, Baba has
As we strive to progress in a world that has shrunk into a emphasized the holistic approach to education that
global village with economic interdependence, as well as
social and racial osmosis, cultural sensitizing is now the
critical driver to harmonize diverse peoples and
aspirations and to ensure what emerges is not chaos, but
a fragrant potpourri. Business magnates today are
waking up to the realization that Character Education
makes good business sense in a world where corporate
conglomerates are more multicultural than ever before.
Political leaders are realizing that a values-based,
tolerant, environmentally responsible and transparent
work ethic and an equitable work environment are the
keys to both, political longevity and long term
profitability. Suddenly, being smart is not enough. Good
harmonizes the head, the hand and the heart.

“ Tr u e e d u c a t i o n s h o u l d m a k e a p e r s o n
compassionate and humane. It should not make him
self-centered and narrow-minded. Spontaneous
sympathy and regard for all beings should flow from
the heart of one who is properly educated. He should
be keen to serve society rather than be preoccupied
with his own acquisitive aspirations. …A person
"From sea to sea" - only peace
should strive to use every talent and skill they have,
is in, and the term 'character' has a 'cool' ring to it! not only for their own benefit, but for the benefit of
A policy paper entitled “Finding Common Ground” the whole world. Understand that society is the
published by the Ontario Ministry of Education, states: source of whatever pleasure one derives and
whatever wealth one achieves in life. We owe
“Quality education includes the education of the
everything to society and should be grateful to
CANADA'S CROWN JEWEL... THE SATHYA SAI SCHOOL IN TORONTO
society for all that we receive from it. We have to School of Canada was established in the year 2000.
repay this debt by helping at least as many people as Training of teachers in Education in Human Values (EHV)
we can." - Sathya Sai Baba is continuing, with the aim to bring awareness of the
eternal human values into the public school system.
The Sai Mission Unfolds…
While the government initiatives aimed at reviving the School boards and other educational institutes are also
place of values of acceptance and tolerance in the school being contacted and informed of the SSEHV program.
systems in North America are still in their infancy, it was Presently, in Canada there are large numbers of
way back on November 17, 1999 that Swami approved volunteers who are dedicated to serving humanity and
the founding of the very first school in North America that propagating Sri Sathya Sai Baba's message of Human
would specialize exclusively in Character Education. It Values.”
was to be set up in Toronto, Canada - a school whose “The school is My project” - Baba
motto would sum up the Sri Sathya Sai philosophy of Going down memory lane, Dr. Singh recalls,
education, namely “the End of Education is Character”. “In the year 1999, Swami answered our prayers to start
For all the activities in the school, the following advice the school in Toronto. He blessed the school and gave
from Swami has become the eternal guide: specific instructions as to how the school should
Love as thought is Truth.
Love as action is Right Conduct.
Love as feeling is Peace.
Love as understanding is Non-violence.
While Canadians stepped into the 21st century with
the first Sathya Sai School in North America taking
shape in a Toronto suburb, the Sathya Sai Education
in Human Values (SSEHV) program had, in fact,
already been successfully implemented in Canada
and elsewhere in the world for over three decades by
then, encouraging millions to live selfless lives,
helping, loving and serving anyone in need, inspired
function.
by the personal example and teachings of Baba.
His instructions were clear - the education in the school
Dr. V. P. Singh, the Central Coordinator of the Sri Sathya
should be based on the Human Values of Love, Truth,
Sai Baba Organization in Canada and Chairman of the
Peace, Right Conduct and Non-violence. The Sathya Sai
Sathya Sai School Trust, points out that “SSEHV classes
School is unique as it combines the standard curriculum
were being conducted across Canada at Sai Centres and
offered by the provincial school boards along with
in some public schools, many years before the Sathya Sai
character building human values education. It teaches
the mind and reaches the
hearts of the children.”
“I bless you and the
project. I am always with
you,” Swami had said while
approving the setting up of
the Sathya Sai School of
Canada. He had further
added, “Land and
building do not make a
school. It is the children
who make a school...
First, start small, and then
Dr. V. P. Singh, Chairman of grow big - Yes, the school His Presence
the Sathya Sai School Trust is my project. I will is always felt
COVER STORY
Honourable Bas Balkissoon, MPP

and City Councillor Raymond Cho
at the school’s inauguration
The multi-faith and

multi-ethnic magnificent students
protect and bless you...”
Recalling that blissful
morning of November 17, Mr. Pillay, then the Principal of the school,
1 9 9 9 , M r. D a y a l hoisting the Canadian flag
Mirchandani, President of
the Sri Sathya Sai
Education Trust of Canada,
says, “When He called me
into the interview room,
Mr. Dayal Mirchandani,
President, Sri Sathya Sai He said, 'I am always happy
Education Trust of Canada with you. Make this (the
school) happen and take
charge'. He then asked me to open my mouth and with
His divine hands, fed me a clove and then granted me
padanamaskar.” With His guaranteed blessings, the Dr. Art-Ong Jumsai unveils
school blossomed. Baba’s picture during opening ceremonies
Demonstrating a New Dimension…
It is interesting that Baba chose Canadians, the
peacekeepers to the world, the nation with the longest
unguarded borders, safe haven for displaced peoples
from around the planet's disturbed areas... “the true
north strong and free” as the seat for reviving perennial
values that are as old as civilization and as relevant to our
lives today as love, fresh air, and life itself.
Founded by a teacher of such unparalleled vision and
wisdom, the Sathya Sai School of Canada was Dr. Michael Goldstein with
inaugurated on September 2, 2000 by Dr. Art-Ong Mme. Myriam Josza and other members
Jumsai, the Director of the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of of the Canadian Sai organization
Fraser report rates

School makes headline news school’s performance at #1
Education, Thailand. Within the first six years of its of the Ontario curriculum in the province-wide
operation, the school attracted much attention from standardization test.
mainstream educators and the media, and recently it Academic Success Only Part of the Equation
once again made national headlines for its perfect score With this superior rating, the Sathya Sai School has
in the province's standardized examination, making it to emerged as a key player in the field of academic
the number one spot in terms of academic excellence excellence on the Canadian national scene. Yet, its
with 15 other schools in the Greater Toronto Area and academic success is only a part of the many laurels the
36 others in the entire province of Ontario, out of a school has won in its young life of a mere six years, and
total of 2812 public, private and separate schools. this ranking comes as no surprise to those who are
The February 14, 2007 edition of the Scarborough Mirror, familiar with the vision and
a popular Toronto newspaper, ran the following front mission of this unique
page story: school.
“Scarborough's Sathya Sai School has a unique recipe Founding Principal of the
for outstanding achievement. Start with dedication School, Mr. T.R. Pillay,
to academic excellence balanced with character believes the report validates
education so students of the private, non- not only the excellent work
denominational school learn the value of civic of the teachers, and the
responsibility. Finally throw in light meditation in the calibre of the students, but
morning and yoga exercises in the afternoon to keep also the school's mission to
the pupils calm and focused. The blend has resulted balance character education
in a winning combination for the school on Ellesmere with academic excellence.
School’s Founding
Road, east of Warden Avenue. The English-language “This high ranking of the Principal, Mr. T.R. Pillay
co-educational school of 160 students is one of 37 school is reassuring, and
elementary schools to receive top grade in an annual further proof that the Sathya Sai ideals of education
report card released this week by the Fraser and its unique school climate bring out the best in the
Institute.” children. I am convinced that if our students were
tested on moral issues and ethical values, they would
School Scores Perfect 10 in Academics
shine with equal brilliance.”
The Fraser Institute, the British Columbia based think
tank, awarded the top Ontario schools perfect ten score If the school has become a resounding success story
based on Reading, Writing and Math tests administered today, it is largely because of the highly trained and
to Grade 3 and 6 students by the province's Education dedicated educators who serve the Sathya Sai School of
Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO). It meant every Canada with unparalleled levels of commitment and
single student had met and/or exceeded the expectations sacrifice, drawing their inspiration directly from the
COVER STORY
EQAO Results Place Sai School in Top Position

EQAO is a province-wide standardization test conducted by the province of Ontario to assess students' levels of
proficiency in three areas, namely, Reading, Writing and Math. The Sathya Sai School of Canada, follows the
Ontario Ministry of Education's Academic Curriculum and further enriches it with its own unique Character
Education program. They are one of the few private schools in the province who participate in this annual test,
held for Grade 3 and Grade 6 students in all public and Catholic elementary schools across the province.
Last June (2006), the third batch of Grade 3 students appeared in this test and once again Sathya Sai students
performed way above their provincial peers. The students' most recent performance versus the Ontario average in
Grade 3 goes like this:
Grade 3 Sathya Sai School Ontario Average

Reading 95 62
Writing 100 64
Math 100 68
Furthermore, being a young school, in 2006, their very first batch of Grade 6 students participated in EQAO for
Grade 6 students and the results speak for themselves:
Grade 6 Sathya Sai School Ontario Average

Reading 100 64
Writing 100 61
Math 100 61
The results indicate the percentage of students who have achieved or exceeded provincial expectations in all three
areas. In light of the exceptional academic performance of the Sathya Sai School students, the Fraser Institute
placed the school in the number one position in all of Ontario.
personal example of Baba, who is not only the Founder and school parents. Since then, each year, every
but also the soul and the life-force of the school. single graduate of my Kindergarten program exceeds
Mrs. Koushi Premachandran, who has been teaching the curriculum expectations in Reading, Math,
Kindergarteners since the school's inception, explaining
her program's phenomenal results, says,
“I always seek God's input and guidance to make the
most of my time with my students. In the year 2002,
while viewing the exhibition on the five elements at
the Chaitanya Jyothi museum in Prashanthi Nilayam, I
had an epiphany that made me revisit my teaching
strategies and methodology.
Upon my return, I rearranged the entire Ontario
Curriculum for Kindergarten to align with the five
elements, the five senses and the five values to better
facilitate the children's understanding of the
interconnectivity of all life. I redesigned all my long Kindergarten teacher
range plans, ensuring all aspects of the curriculum Mrs. Koushi Premachandran with her little scholars
were covered but the units were layered in sync with
the rhythm of the creation of our universe. The net Science and Writing.
result was that not only did we successfully meet all Several of them have reading skills comparable to
the Kindergarten expectations, but exceeded them Grade 2 level Ontario curriculum expectations!
beyond the wildest imagination of my fellow teachers The supreme teacher, beloved Baba is responsible for
this achievement for had it not been for His wisdom,

we would never have known that a simple reordering
of the topics will exponentially enhance students'
learning ability.”
For Grade 2 teacher Mrs. Aditi Jain, every day at the
school holds a surprise. She says: “As we go through our
daily lesson plans, there is that special moment, when a
student does, says or asks something so precious and
priceless that it jolts me out of my complacency, making
me wonder if such a profound eureka moment would
ever have been possible in a school system without
character education? That one spark of divine radiance
Kindergartners listen attentively
that flashes from deep within a child illuminates the
atmosphere in the classroom, charging us all with
Students pray before snack and lunch time
Grade 2 teacher Mrs. Aditi Jain

renewed energy…
“This rare combination of sublimity and wisdom can only
arise when a pure mind is plugged into the universal
intelligence.”
The school's character education program and a values-
permeated environment are greatly responsible for the
students' wholesome attitude to learning, keen sense of
engagement and service to the community. Swami says, Group presentations encourage cooperation
“Education is for life, not merely for earning a living”.
Even as a good report card from the Fraser Institute is
welcome news, it is only a part of the school's greater
goal, to promote human excellence by balancing
academic excellence with character education.
Since its inception in September 2000, the Sathya Sai
School has been a pioneer in integrating values into the
core academic curriculum. All members of the school's
teaching faculty have outstanding professional
qualifications from leading universities in Canada and
abroad as well as additional training in integrating the
SSEHV program into the academic curriculum
throughout the school day. One example of successful Presenting group projects to peers
integration is the annual Science Fair. It integrates the
COVER STORY
THE ANNUAL SCIENCE FAIR
Kumaran Subendran, Gr. 5 Sureka Selvakumaran, Gr. 6 Chinmay Potdar, Grade 2
Darini Hariharan, Grade 2

Raajat Gupta, Grade 6 Krupa Mistry, Grade 3
learning of Science with various stages of

the Sathya Sai Education in articulating their
Human Values program emotional growth and
while providing a perfect seeking a definitive
opportunity for family spiritual path, which has
bonding, a practice highly a personal meaning to
encouraged in the school's them. This seeking
culture. comes through in their
Grade 5 teacher Miss questions which are at
Tanushree Das says: “While once simple and
integrating each strand of profound, like: “How can
the curriculum expectation I control my mind?” or
Grade 3 students celebrate their successes
with values, my students “Who is the 'I' and what
come up with insights that make them realize that exactly is 'my'?” Their
nothing stands in isolation. All aspects of our awareness, ability to articulate
learning and experience are interconnected. True their process of
learning occurs when we unearth this fundamental that “becoming” gives me
all is connected within precious life lessons. A water cycle an opportunity to
is nothing but a cycle of karma, or as Swami says: break down the
reaction, reflection, and resound. discussion to explain
such concepts as
“I am blessed to teach 10 year olds in a grade 5
consciousness and
classroom. These students come to me with well
ego. It is pure joy, the
defined basic skills of logical thinking and daily
high point for me as Spelling Bee contestant
classroom behaviour, thanks to my hardworking Sudarshan with Mr. Pillay
an educator to be able
colleagues in previous grades. Most of them have and Grade 5 teacher
to explain the
been in the Sathya Sai School system and are at Miss Tanushree Das
different levels of consciousness and perils of letting

our ego take over. I have to know, and practice myself
what I am attempting to explain. The profundity of
the students' aspirations forces an inner learning and
growth for me. To be effective, I must walk the talk
myself. I must be the change I seek in them. I must
first practice what I profess, or else the lesson will be
lost.”
According to Michael Greenwood, Grade 6 teacher, “The
teaching profession is fundamentally based on
spiritual principles.” For him, “Service rendered to the School choir singing at a community event
students is service to Swami Himself” and teaching is for victims of Tsunami in South Asia
not a profession, rather, “a sadhana or a spiritual
practice to realize God” which has to be done in utmost
purity and sincerity.
It is this enlightened
attitude of the teachers
which has made this
school so special.
Looking back at the
many trails the school
has blazed in the past six Spelling Bee champion Arun Thayanithy (school
years, fundamentally alumnus) with Mr. Greenwood and Mr. Pillay
because of its adherence
to the five human
values, the school's now
retired Founding
Principal Mr. T.R. Pillay Mr. Greenwood watches
describes his tenure here over reading buddies
as the ultimate high Raghav and Sindujeyan
point of his career of
over four decades as an educator. He left the school with
a treasure trove of priceless memories. He recalls: “I shall
remember the student who was asked: What is the
difference between a dream and reality? And his
UN Team in the school to observe its
reply: 'They are just different levels of consciousness'. unique values program and peace initiatives
“I will treasure memories of individual achievements
and individual acts of concern for fellow men. One
student spelt his way to the Regional Spelling Bee
Finals three times and even donated his prize money
to the school. Another student showed kindness and
caring when he offered his chair to a visitor who had
been standing too long in his classroom or to his
Principal who had dropped in to watch a class
presentation. I shall remember the earnest plea of
the student who wanted me to send light and love to
her every morning as she was moving to another part
of the province; and the student who reminded his Students with MPP Hon. Bas Balkissoon
mother who was about to punish him: 'Hands are for during their field trip to the
helping, not hurting'”, Mr. Pillay reminiscences with Ontario Provincial Parliament
COVER STORY
pride and nostalgia. deep and sincere respect and every student was
treated as a unique individual.
Overwhelming Response to
the School's Annual Open House “After our son Kristian joined the school, it is a great
According to Principal Dr. Revathi Chennabathni, the insight for us as parents to learn and practice the five
school's 7th annual Open House on April 4, 2007 saw the human values together with our son in our everyday
gym packed with nearly 300 interested families eager to lives.”
understand the unique vision and mission of the only
school in Canada and the USA that offers what may be
termed a full-time “Character Immersion” program. Over
150 applications were received for 20 spots in the Junior
Kindergarten program and against any possible vacancies
that may arise in other classes (Senior Kindergarten to
Grade 6) should any of the existing students leave the
school. The school caps class size at 20 students per
grade, the optimum number recommended by the
Ministry of Education.
Students addressing a peace rally

School Principal Dr. Revathi Chennabathni
With each passing year, the buy-in by potential parents
continues to be overwhelming. Despite the many
demands that the school's programs place on them as
partners, Canadian families are drawn to the school for
various reasons.
For Eugene and Inesa
Akimov, the parents of
Grade 6 student Kristian
Akimov, it was the self-
confidence of the Sathya
Sai School students that
struck a chord. “Our first Students compere school’s special assemblies
visit to the school was
during the Open House.
“As North American parents, we wanted our children
We were impressed by
to grow in an environment where the fundamental
the students' ability to
Kristian Akimov, Grade 6 five human values defined the culture - values that are
express their opinions
timeless and can be easily related to regardless of
and thoughts clearly and with confidence…it felt we
one's culture, race, faith or religion,” say Shanthi and
were speaking to grown up persons. We also noticed
Bob Balakumar, parents of Alagan, in Junior Kindergarten
the teachers and students shared a relationship of
and Paary, in Grade 1. “After extensive research, the
Sathya Sai School emerged

as the ideal and only choice
for us. We love the
atmosphere that engulfs us
as we step in through the
doors of the school. We
appreciate and value the
creative teaching
methodologies used by the
teachers. As well, the
Lavanya Sivakumar and Drama teacher Miss Chandrakanthan p a r t n e r s h i p a n d
Divakshi Rohan, Grade 2 teaching Performing communication between the
learn to use a thermometer Arts to Grade 3 students
staff at the school and
parents ensures that the
children receive care and
coaching almost 24/7.”
For Mullafer Shanawaz and his
wife Kaushy, the draw of the
school was the universal
appeal of the virtues the
Sathya Sai model of learning
promotes. “My wife is a
A group Art activity Reading buddies Praven and Parnika Hindu and I am a Muslim.
One of our challenges was
which religion our daughters would follow and, more
importantly, what values they should practice in their
daily life. Frequently we tend to forget that all faiths
point to the universal values and a life of peace,
tolerance and compassion.
Exploring Medieval Times -

Knights in shinning armour
Celebrating Canada’s diversity –

a special Sankranthi assembly
We wanted to provide our daughters Shivaani and
Shaayini the best possible education with proper
Grade 5 students dressed as Latin Dancers -
guidance. Initially, I was skeptical about the Sathya
learning to feel one
with every culture and creed Sai School's claim of balancing human excellence with
character education. I then visited Prashanthi Nilayam
COVER STORY
up learning these values and broad-mindedness. We

were only told what is good and bad and that our
religion is superior to all other religions. Today, when
both our kids talk to us, we can see their maturity and
their respect for everything in the world, from human
to animal life and from stones to plants. Amazingly,
we are learning more about being good human
beings from our children than we are teaching
them…my wife and I are both practicing our
respective faiths and maintaining our culture without
any discrepancy while practicing the five human
values as a family - values that are common to both
our faiths. We have all grown after our daughters
Celebrating Baisakhi in the school joined the school.”
through unique programmes
Students pray
before
writing exams
... and before

lunch and
snack time
Darini Hariharan makes an in-class

presentation on Christmas
Tuning-in time or meditation begins

Students wear traditional clothes
in Junior Kindergarten
on special occasions
It is a variety of facets of the school such as daily universal

personally to check out the claims. The trip was a life-
prayers (which are conspicuous by their absence in the
altering experience. Upon return we were
public school system where even the term “God” is a
determined to seek admission here. Today, this is the
taboo) to the school's loving discipline policy, smart
best gift we have given our daughters. This is the only
uniform, high academic standard, weekly yoga classes,
school we can relate to. It offers the best character
daily tuning-in time, insistence on healthy and vegetarian
based education that is academically superior too.
food, and so on that has attracted Canadian parents.
“Our girls are more fortunate than us. We didn't grow
Junior Kindergarten student Dante Morris' mom Michelle

Ward admits: “My interest in the Sathya Sai School of
Canada peaked when I discovered this school still
believed in saying a school prayer, which I believe, is
very important for any child. As I accessed the school
website, I was in total awe because it was at this time I
realized how much the school had to offer and I right
away decided this would be Dante's school, without
even contacting anyone at the school. I was most
impressed with the fact that the school started the
day with a prayer and even three 3 year olds were
taught meditation and silent sitting and basic yoga
techniques. To me the school on the whole is one that
other schools should do their very best to model after. Grade 2 students
with Mrs. Jain
I feel very proud to say my son Dante attends the
Sathya Sai School of Canada and I feel very blessed to
have him there.”
Kindergartners with their

model of a new school
The happy Mohan Gopal family

The School's Unique Teaching Methodology
Aruna and Mohan Gopal, who have been associated with What has made this school stand out so splendidly is its
the school since its inception, recalling how it all began, distinctive teaching methodology that is modelled on the
say, “In the spring of the year 2000, we were at the Sathya Sai system of education. It calls for an integrated
crossroads in terms of where we would be sending approach to learning that nurtures the mind, the body
our daughter to study for her first year at school…we and the spirit. Based on this philosophjy of educare, the
were keen to provide her with a firm foundation of school's program aims to draw the infinite intelligence
human values that had to be interwoven into the and goodness latent in every individual, using a variety of
regular academic curriculum and would permeate the effective teaching methods. Teachers, here, specialise not
entire school environment. At that very juncture, we in teaching a subject, rather they are experts in using the
attended a presentation on the opening of the Sathya subject as a means to help the child in his or her own
Sai School of Canada…this was indeed an answer to development. The educators principally use five teaching
our prayers and could not have come at a more components:
opportune time. 1. Thought for the Day
“Over the years, our daughter Kavita Anjana Gopal, 2. Light Meditation
currently in Grade 5 at the Sathya Sai School of
3. Group Singing & Music
Canada, has blossomed into a beautiful person,
showing a deep understanding of the human values 4. Group Activities
in her words, actions and choices.” 5. Story Telling
These are used to impart lessons with a variety of adaptive
COVER STORY
methodologies in two principal ways: integration raised to the power of infinity!

1) The Integral approach “There is a pure love energy that runs this school like
2) The Direct approach an invisible, silent fuel. This energy engulfs everyone
into one, uniting us to pursue a higher purpose;
The First Approach - functioning and guiding us through our daily
Adding Values to Academics decisions. Each day I realize what a special and
The first is integration of values within the academic and incredible project I am associated with. The
extra-curricular school activities wherein specially trained experience is beyond words.”
teachers incorporate the human values lessons within the
learning of traditional subjects such as Math, Science,
The Second Approach -
Language, Social Studies and Physical Education, and Instilling Values the Direct Way
also integrate the program into extra-curricular activities While that is the tremedous impact the integration of
like clubs, playground activities, sports and field trips. values into the curriculum creates, there is also a second
and more direct method which the educators use,
Citing an example of how this is done and what impact it
wherein instructional techniques are used to teach one of
has in the students minds, Mrs. Ahalya Ganesh a Grade 4
the five human values. And the impression this approach
teacher, says, “I remember the day when the officials
leaves on the young minds is no less.
from the Premier of Ontario's task force on Character
Education came to observe my language lesson in
progress and to see how we integrate universal values
into Language Arts. A student felt compelled to raise
his hand randomly when the ministry officials were
asking some questions.
Saying grace before lunch
Mrs. Ahalya Ganesh, Grade 4 teacher
“When asked to speak up, he was bubbling to share

with them a profound insight. Out of the blue, he
began to explain the dilemma of the ice cube! He felt
that the ice cube is all confused, thinking it is different
from water. What the ice cube does not know is that
it too is made of water. It may look and feel different Bhavik Amin with a special card
but it really is not. It is just a little bit of water frozen for Mother’s Day
up. Just like all of us, having come from God, we
assume we are different or separate from Him. But in The direct method utilizes all five teaching components
actual we are all made of God. We really are God. through a number of specifically designed lesson plans,
“I will never forget the expression of the government to be used directly in the classroom unlike the previous
officials to this sudden outburst of wisdom in the integral method which incorporates the five values into
middle of a Grade 4 Language lesson! Talk of the curriculum and learning environment.
Playing or working - always together
Grade 1 - Community helpers include

officers of the Ontario Provincial Police
Grade 1 students as doctors for their Job Fair
Grade 1 - A group of skilled

construction workers
during a job fair for Community Helpers
This program is designed not as an attempt to dictate or

impose values, but rather to provide the children with a
frame of reference which they can use to inform their
future decisions and behaviour. The whole endeavour is
based on five basic Human Values that are universal and Boosting self-esteem at
held in the highest esteem in all cultures, faiths and Valuentine’s day party –
societies, namely Truth, Right Conduct, Peace, Love and students discuss “what I like about me”
Non-Violence. These are nurtured through various
methods and approaches. Some examples of practicing
values include:
Living Truth in life by practicing:
. Honesty . Integrity
. Quest for Knowledge . Self-analysis
. Dignity . Equality
Practicing Right Conduct through:
. Respect for others . Discipline
. Responsibility . Courage Field trips to the Toronto City Hall
to learn about the workings
. Helpfulness . Gratitude of the municipal government
COVER STORY
Grade 5 students celebrate self-awareness

Sathya Sai School students –
face of human values
classes.
The Third and The Most Potent Approach -

Walking The Talk
In spite of the tremendous positive results both have,
possibly the most effective way of teaching values is by
example. Teachers here are remembered for who they are
more than for what they teach. If a teacher is loving and
kind, then everything he/she teaches will automatically
be full of values. Teaching that the composition of water
is H2O is academic knowledge. Teaching the value of
Grade 2 celebrates water and the proper way to use and conserve it is Sathya
International Understanding Day Sai Education in Human Values. Both kinds of teaching
must be used together to deliver a more balanced
education.
Fostering Peace by developing:
Once a teacher starts
. Patience and Calmness . Healthy Living
to practice values in his
. Perseverance . Contentment
or her life, then
. Understanding . Self-respect thinking of ways to
Nurturing Love in life by: integrate values into
. Caring and Sharing . Compassion the classroom
becomes easy. This
. Friendship . Kindness
program, in fact,
. Tolerance . Generosity offers a unique
Imbibing Non-violence in daily life through activities that opportunity to both
exhibit: teachers and students.
. Concern for all Life . Forgiveness It is an opportunity to
grow and develop
. Selfless Service . Citizenship
together.
. Global Awareness . Unity
Miss Seema Poddar, a Grade 1 teacher Miss
Other salient features of this approach include universal
grade 1 teacher who Seema Poddar enthralls
prayers at the start of each day, the daily tuning-in and
has been actively students with Harry Potter
reflection time when the students meditate on the light
involved since the school's planning stages, says: “Given
of a candle and discuss the Daily Thought for the Day
that as a student I remembered my teachers more
during the ensuing circle time discussion and weekly yoga
than the material they taught me, I realized that if I
was to take up the teaching profession, I would like to around this place seemed so high end. As I left the
be a teacher who would leave a positive impression school, I remember feeling a deep sense of admiration
on the lives of my students. I didn't want to teach and awe for both those who deliver the program and
subjects, I wanted to teach children. I wanted to be those who seemed to be thriving in it. How I wished I
able to create a lasting, supportive relationship with too could be part of this professional environment!
my students. I wanted to give my students a glimpse “I realized though that if I was to seek an opportunity
of the infinite beauty that lies in their hearts, and to to join this team of highly motivated and driven
inspire them to tap into that inherent potential in educators, I needed to further augment my
order to realize all their dreams…” professional and spiritual qualifications. At once, I
She further admits, “In order to teach the Human signed up for a course in SSEHV integration for
Values to my students, I have had to reflect on my elementary teachers at the British Institute of EHV in
own understanding of these values as well as my Leicester, UK.
ability to practice them. Every year, during the period “Thanks to its early introduction in Junior
of Lent, leading to Easter, together, my Grade 1 Kindergarten, by Grade 3, morning meditation is a
students and I, reflect on the spiritual significance of pretty intense experience. Many of my students
this Christian tradition. Along with my children, I too receive clear insights and visions during this quiet
search my heart and then give up a favourite tuning-in time, which we share during the circle
indulgence to experience first-hand the spirit of discussion right after. I believe it is because of such
sacrifice and compassion. ” sincere introspection at this early age that the
Grade 3 teacher Miss Minoli Chandrakanthan realized children are able to follow the straight and narrow
this right at the outset. - She recalls: “I came to meet the path.”
school's former Principal Mr. T.R. Pillay to learn more We can observe this blossoming of values in Lavanya
about private schools and how they compare with the Sivakumar of Grade 2 who says, “I like to care for and
public schools. When he began to explain what this share with my sisters a lot more then I used to. When
school was all about, I remember wondering how they are happy, I am happy. I help my mom around the
authentic his tall claims were. In my head I was house so she wouldn't have to do as much work. I
questioning if any of what he was saying was really love the teachers in our school because they are
verifiable. What I was hearing did not tally with any very patient with me and help me understand
of my experiences during my practicum in the public anything I need help with.”
school system.
Kunj and Suresh Mehendiratta, parents of Karn and
Sanya, acknowledge this reality: “We are so blessed to
have our kids attend the best school where they are
loved and taught by the best and highly dedicated
teachers, volunteers and other staff members, who
put their heart and soul into helping our children get
better each day.”
Why The Children Love This School?

The relationship that the students have with this school is
something which can rarely be found elsewhere. The
impression that it leaves on their hearts and minds in the
few formative years of their life is indelible.
Shaumithri Kulendran belongs to the first batch of Sathya
Sai School students who completed Grade 6 and
Grade 3 teacher Miss graduated last June (2006). One of the things she misses
Minoli Chandrakanthan helps Janani Nandakumar
the most about the Sathya Sai School is the smart
“A little while later, as I walked down the hallway, I uniforms, which are not part of the public school system.
started to check out some of the students' work and “Uniforms brought out our inherent goodness and
saw for myself the genuinely high caliber of students alikeness. They don't let people judge others by their
and more so of their teachers. Everything they did looks or the brand names they wear. Uniforms put us
COVER STORY
all on the same “The loving and peaceful atmosphere of our school is
pedestal. The my favourite. It always keeps me calm. Daily
students can be of meditation makes my tensions, worries, anxieties
any race or religion, and bad thoughts go away. I like sending light to
they can be rich or everyone who is suffering during meditation. It
maybe not as well- helps me feel one with the entire universe.”
off, but no one really Keshan Sritharan of Grade 5
cares about it. No began his seven years at this
one is worried about school in Junior Kindergarten.
each other's outer “The meditation at the start
appearance or the of each day allows me to
price tag on their begin my morning
designer clothes, peacefully, in awareness of
shoes, accessories. the light within me and my
"I miss wearing We a r e a b l e t o connection to the rest of the
the school uniform"-
concentrate on inner universe…The most
Shaumithri Kulendran
strengths of every important lesson I have
person rather than the superficial and outer Keshan Sritharan, learned is to treat everyone
identities…I miss wearing the uniform that bears the Grade 5 the same way I would like to
name of this special school.” be treated. I will carry this with me throughout my
Kirthana Sasitharan is another Sathya Sai School alumna life.”
who misses the school. “Everyone was so cooperative “The most valuable life lessons I will take to my new
and willing to help. I felt I had over 100 brothers and environment are the five human values and their
sisters all of whom loved and cared for me. My many sub-values. How can I ever forget what my
teachers gave me so much love and compassion and family and I learned from this school?” asks Janani
sat down patiently to explain stuff till I got it. We Nandakumar of Grade 3.
were like one big family,” she fondly recollects.
Innovative Ideas to Instill Values
Shrishti Ahuja joined the
While the great debate on the need for character
school in Grade 4 in the year
education rages among educators and decision makers
2005. Coming from a public
in North America, for six years now, the Sathya Sai School
school, Shrishti was
of Canada has successfully balanced academic excellence
overwhelmed by the warm
and character education, carving a niche for itself as a
welcome her peers and
unique private school. Values are unmistakably evident in
teachers gave her. “I will
the overall climate of the school, and this is because the
never forget this school. It is
school has found innovative ways to instill these timeless
like a second home. My
principles in the young minds. One such interesting
Shrishti Ahuja, favourite part is figuring out
Grade 5 concept is the 'value under the spotlight for a two month
that the real purpose of life
period'.
is to enjoy it and learn from my mistakes. Can you
Under this program, the ten months (September-
imagine living a life without
June) of the school year are divided into 5 segments
knowing why you were
of 2 months each, to coincide with the five human
born? This school has
values that form the foundation of the school's
taught me how to build my
Character Education Program.
character.”
Every two months of the school calendar have a value
With three more years to go
under focus. During morning announcements, the
before she graduates, Grade 3
Grade 2 students who broadcast from the 'Valueland
student Devanshi Shukla
Radio Station' read the daily Thought for the Day which is
already knows what she will
related to the value under spotlight. Following the
miss the most about the Devanshi Shukla, morning assembly, each class has a tuning-in time where
school when she leaves it. Grade 3
the students and the teacher sit down in a circle and
...and to build up physical stamina

Tuning-in time - students meditate
are these excellent opportunities
on the light and
expand it to envelope the universe day's Thought for the Day and its application and
relevance in their daily lives. Apart from Swami's precious
sayings, quotes are also selected from many great
leaders, teachers and thinkers, past and present, such as
Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., Mother Teresa,
the Dalai Lama and even the Berenstain Bears (popular
All students start the day in the school

with a calm period of reflection
meditate on the light of a candle which they visualize

internally and then expand to envelope the universe and
all its inhabitants, feeling a sense of oneness with all the
beings in all the worlds and praying for universal peace,
happiness and harmony. Checking the impact of prayers
Following the quiet meditation time, students discuss the on plant growth
Learning basketball discipline

The calm start to the day promotes before taking the ball
focus and concentration
COVER STORY
children books with value stories). and October. This ties in perfectly with laying out the
Starting the school day with the first period dedicated to rules and regulations governing good conduct in the
Sathya Sai Education in Human Values sets the tone for classroom, gym, playground, bus and other areas. Team
focused and calm learning ahead for the rest of the day. building, cooperation and respect for peers and teachers
While the lessons plans of every teacher from period two during group dynamics are some of the important lessons
onwards conform to the expectations of the Ontario students imbibe early in the academic year, minimizing
Academic Curriculum, the teachers of the Sathya Sai time wasted on disciplining and conflict resolution
School of Canada further fine-tune the outcome of their during class time.
teaching strategies to ensure a values connection. November and December are devoted to the value
of Peace, connecting well with the theme of peace
on earth. During this season, the school community
honours the nation's World War II veterans on
Remembrance Day and they joyfully celebrate such
festivals as Eid, Diwali, Hanukkah, Thanksgiving and
Christmas. Representatives from various faith groups
are invited to special assemblies organized in this
connection. Most guest speakers are impressed by the
depth of understanding of their faith and its tenets
displayed by the multi-faith student body during the
question and answer sessions.
Studying hard
What would Christmas be without angels?
Making presentations to class and the school
Whether it is a lesson in Math, Language Arts, Physical

Education, Social Studies, Science and so on, the teachers
plan the lessons, teaching aids, and outcomes from a
values lens. In the end, the students are able to make the
connection between life experiences and the place of
human values in them.
Learning rangoli on Diwali,
Each school year begins with the spotlight on the the festival of lights
value of Right Conduct for the months of September
Valentine’s Day becomes a Valuentine’s Vandana Ratnam asks some seniors’

celebration as students serenade the elderly about their well-being on Valuentine’s day
Expressing love and respect to Senior citizens “How are you grand-ma?” enquires Parnika
January and February spell Love in the Air, expressed mitten tree. Kindergartners then begin their annual
in many different ways. Students replace the rampant campaign of making a small personal sacrifice, such as
consumerism associated with Valentine's day into a foregoing a chocolate bar or a similar treat to buy a pair of
valuable learning experience by visiting and singing value warm mittens, gloves, scarf or a hat for their homeless
songs at two major facilities that are home to the elderly sisters and brothers in the city of Toronto. These tokens
in Toronto. They bring joy and good cheer to the lonely of love are then hung on the mitten tree in place of the
senior citizens turning it into a truly 'Valuentine' Christmas decorations.
experience. Inspired by the leadership and compassion demonstrated
Every year, they also collect over half a tonne of by the youngest of our students, children from all other
vegetarian, non-perishable food items for the Food Bank grades, namely Grade 1 to Grade 6, join in
used by the needy residents of the city of Toronto. The enthusiastically to augment their efforts by bringing in
youngest scholars, the little kindergartners, take over the
Christmas tree every January and February and transform
it into a mitten tree, decorating it with mittens and warm
accessories for the homeless.
The Mitten Tree - Mighty in Love

Despite the freezing, arctic weather conditions, there is
but one tree, a truly special one that blooms every
February in the heart of Toronto, its branches laden heavy
with a bumper crop of love. The Kindergarten-led
initiative of the mitten tree has become a proud tradition
of the Sathya Sai School of Canada. Typically, every year,
when school reopens in January, the school's Christmas
tree sheds all its shiny trimmings and reincarnates as the Mitten tree of Divine Love
COVER STORY
warm accessories for those who are left to brave the every year in April to clean up the elegant city by stepping
severe elements without proper winter gear. By the time out and picking litter in open spaces around the school
Valentine's month approaches, the mitten tree is laden and in public parks.
and drooping with tokens of students' heart-felt love and
Lent, Maths and Human Values
sacrifice. These are then packaged in specially decorated
boxes that the kindergartners prepare as a part of their For weeks leading up to Good Friday and Easter, Miss
Art curriculum. Poddar and her Grade 1 students try to understand the
spirit behind the tradition by developing selfless love
Covered with pink hearts and loving quotes from Swami
themselves. They maintain a personalized daily
who inspires them to feel kinship with all creation, the
assessment diary where they note their personal
Kindergartners prepare these gift hampers which are
sacrifices, if any, on a daily basis and how much money,
then delivered to shelters for the homeless in the city.
time, energy and food they are able to save by giving up a
The heart-shaped cards carry loving messages such as personal pleasure, which is then directed towards a good
“With extra love to keep you warm.” cause such as supporting their adopted sister Murni in
In the current year (2007), for instance, a total of 254 Indonesia. In the end, they add up the total savings
pairs of woollen accessories were collected which generated as a result of their self-control.
included a high quality jacket, loads of mittens, scarves Every year, a large number of students make a significant
and hats and even sweaters. discovery, namely that there is life without television!
March and April usher hope, renewal and spring, They give up their favourite addiction, namely watching
making Non-violence the ideal value of the season. TV in favour of playing sports or reading a good book.
Students participate in observing Lent, Easter and Earth Other Grade 1 students help out their parents by
day by cleansing their hearts, minds and their performing extra chores at home, such as loading the
environment. The entire school community participates dishwasher, sorting and folding laundry, serving
in the Mayor of Toronto's call for a 20 minute make-over breakfast to their family on weekends, cleaning their
rooms and making beds. Many of them give up candy,
gum and chocolates for the entire 40 days leading to
Easter. Instead, they switch to healthier snacks such as
fruits and vegetables. Other creative students resolve that
upon return from school, instead of running into the
house, with a trail of woolen accessories strewn around,
they ought to sort and store their own and family
members' gloves, hats, mittens and other easy-to-
misplace accessories neatly in their designated place,
thus saving time and energy required while looking for
them the next time, when they are stepping out.
Students participate in Earth Day by giving

Mother Earth a spring make-over
It's joy and happiness as they pick litter The Walk for Values includes participants
in schools and public parks on foot, bands, mascots, value cheers
and value floats
far as Australia.
The Walk for Values this year will be held on June 10 and
the staff, students and parents of the school are leaving
no stone unturned to make the event inspiring and
memorable for everybody, especially the local
community. They had a promotion for this event in
Dundas square in downtown Toronto on May 27 and will
be following this up with another similar event on June 3.
Exceptional Experiential Learning -

'Learning Through Serving'
The learning in the school is not confined to only value-
Students and teachers based lessons in classrooms, there is also another
of the Sathya Sai School significant 'practical workshop', so to say, which is
are on the forefront of the walk inspired by Swami's ideals of community outreach service
projects. And the kind of virtues that this program instills
in young hearts is profound. In bite size servings,
customized for easy assimilation, the students learn the
priceless lesson of the underlying connectivity that exists
behind all manifest life.
Several times each school year, students collect
Sponsored by the Parent Council

of the school, the unique walkathon
requires no monetary pledges
Santa’s little helpers descend on the Homes

for the Elderly and sing carols to them
The Greenwood family

steps forward to make the world a better place
The last two months of the school year, namely May

and June, bring the value of Truth to the forefront.
This season coincides with the school's annual Walk for
Values, a brain-child of the Sathya Sai School of Canada's
Parent Council. What began as a local community
outreach project has now inspired sister events nationally A loving reindeer hands a rose
across Canadian cities and internationally in countries as to a senior citizen at the facility
COVER STORY
vegetarian, non-perishable food items for the Daily Bread

Food Bank and visit lonely elderly senior citizens in their
lodges at Christmas time and on Valentine's Day to
serenade them by singing value songs and presenting
them with hand-made gifts.
By doing chores like the child humanitarian Ryan Hreljac
(a Canadian child who at the age of six, began raising
money for the world's most needy, and has since raised
over $1.5 million for water projects in Africa), they have
raised more money than any other school in Canada for
water wells in Africa where two wells have been dug in
the name of the Sathya Sai School of Canada. They
A warm hug for a lonely heart continue to support their adopted sister Murni in
Indonesia through the Foster Parents Plan of Canada as
well as other disadvantaged children globally by making
personal sacrifices and performing extra chores. They are
not allowed to seek handouts from family members.
Students are excited to participate in various other
experiential lessons, having oodles of fun along the way.
Says Darini Hariharan of
Grade 2: “My school
gives me lots of
opportunities to help
Keshan Sritharan others. Children Helping
brings joy to an elderly person Children (CHC) is my
favourite project. It
allows me to perform
extra chores at home
and earn money to help
Darini Hariharan, my brothers and sisters
Grade 2 elsewhere in the world
who are poor. Last year, I told my parents that I did
not want to celebrate my birthday with a party. I also
worked hard, performing many extra chores around
the house to earn money. I then shared all this money
with the children who live in an orphanage run by our
Everyone can use a loving hug beloved Swami in India. That made me so happy. This
year, I again help my Dad to vacuum and dust the
house and my Mom in the kitchen. I also fold washed
clothes. I perform many extra chores for which my
parents gave me money towards my CHC collection. I
also sacrificed the $100 my parents gave me on Tamil
New Year for spending when I grow up. I decided I
would work and earn money on my own when I grow
up. For now, I added the $100 to my CHC collection.
In the last two years, I worked hard and sacrificed my
birthday parties and New Year gifts to raise more than
$700 to bring joy to children I have not met but who
...from Santa’s friendly helpers may be sad or sick and who I would like to be happy,
just like me. My school teaches me that when others
our annual Christmas concert and the famous Walk

for Values. Last year, our class was on the float. We
danced and sang songs throughout the walk and I
pledged to practice more patience. I love yoga and
meditation because they improve my ability to focus
and concentrate. I'm also able to relax, feel calm and
reflect.”
Experiential learning is indeed the key to the school's
successful implementation of the Character Education
Program, and the earlier mentioned kindergarten
initiative, the mitten tree service project, is one such with
sets the ball rolling quite early and has deep positive
Learning the values of love
and sacrifice through singing and chores impact in the students' psyche.
Ryan Hreljac’s visit to the school

inspired the school tradition
of Children Helping Children
Grade 3 students Sai Sujani and Krithika Ragupathi
are happy, our hearts grow and glow with joy. I love
Truly, future Canadians are being groomed here day in
to make a difference.”
and day out in the art of responsible citizenship. One
For Nikita Jariwala of such student is Krithika Ragupathi of Grade 3. A high
Grade 6 bringing joy to achiever in both character education and academic
others is the ultimate excellence, Krithika loves her school because of who she
gratification. “I feel so can look up to as her role models. “I liked our former
happy that I'm doing Principal Mr. Pillay's smile the most. I love my current
something good for Principal Dr. Revathi and my teachers. Everyone here
someone else. I love to is so nice. One day I would like to be nice like them.
see the smiles on their When I leave this school, I will miss them all but the
faces…I have learned thing I will miss the most is our Beloved Founder
many life lessons: always Sathya Sai Baba's picture in our school. Looking at it, I
Nikita Jariwala, Grade 6 speaking the truth, feel very happy. After graduating, I am going to
respecting elders, spread the values to the other schools I go to and I will
forgive and forget, think before performing an action set a good example for people so that they too will be
and always keeping the big picture in mind before inspired to practice the human values.”
doing anything. Truly, my learning experience here
has been spectacular, both for my self development Parents as Partners
and academic growth… The students of the school are not the only ones who are
being transformed due to the values education. Their
I have enjoyed learning the fun way by participating
parents, siblings and members of extended family too are
in the Science Fair, Public Speaking Contest, Spelling
reaping the rich harvest of the Sathya Sai Education in
Bee and by representing our school at the Terry Fox
Human Values program. And in fact, one of the principal
Run to find a cure for cancer, visiting Seniors' homes,
COVER STORY
reasons for the success of the programme is the parents. make sure that the applicant's family is the right fit for
Swami says, “Parents and the school environment. It is such an engaging
teachers are the sculptors partnership.”
who have to mould the In this School, while accepting their child's admission,
shape of the students for every parent has to commit to completing the 15-
w h o m t h e y a r e week Dynamic Value Parenting Workshop within the
responsible. If parents first year of their child's enrolment at the School. This is
and teachers set the right mandatory.
example, the students will
The aim of this program is two-fold:
automatically blossom
Recognizing that home is the fundamental political,
into models of excellence
economic and social unit of society and a society's
and bring glory to the
economic well-being and stability rests on the foundation
nation.”
of good practice of values at home, this program
It is heartening that the Ministry of Education, supports the establishment of a stable social system
Government of Ontario too echoed the same sentiments. based on tolerance, love, equality, respect, compassion
Their document 'Finding Common Ground' said: and justice.
“Parents and guardians have the primary To create happiness and fulfillment in the lives of
responsibility for character development, with the members of a family so that each functions optimally in
support of others in the community.” the physical, mental, emotional and social spheres, which
In fact, research shows that there is a clear connection will create stable family and social systems.
between genuine parent involvement in schools and To put it simply, the program asks the parents to become
student achievement. If it takes a village to raise a child, aware of their own and their child's developmental needs
raising him/her upright takes an entire community of and make a commitment to implement the five human
people who practice the virtues themselves.In the Sathya values (Truth, Right Conduct, Love, Peace and Non-
Sai School of Canada, the admission process is as rigorous Violence) in their life. And this is conveyed through 15
for the parents as it is for the students. Recalling her two-hour workshops which are interesting and practical.
experience, Anu Jain, parent of Grade 2 student Alisha
Some of the topics dealt with are - How are parents suited
Bapoo, says: “I will never forget the interview process.
to implement Sathya Sai Education in Human Values, Role
I work for a multi-media company and let me assure
of Parents in the Moral Development of the Child, Seizing
you my job interview was much easier than the
opportunities for Teaching Human Values, Identifying
grueling interview that Akbar and I went through to
dynamic, Enabling & disabling processes in daily family
get Alisha into the school. I was sweating on that cold
life, Human Value of Love: Spouse Bond, etc.
winter afternoon by the time the meeting was over.
Looking back, today, I realize why it is important to At the end of each module, participants apply the shared
knowledge and experiences to their own family
circumstances by setting a personal goal for
improvement or change. And this takes the form of an
action plan, which they try to put into practice during the
week. When the children of parents who had participated
in the workshops, were asked if they noticed any changes
in their parents, they indicated that their parents have
changed and have become more loving, open in
communication, supportive and were spending more
time with them. Of course, true and lasting change takes
time but the parents at least know how to go about it and
keep the momemtum.
Divakshi Ron and Beena Mucklestone, parents of
Divakshi, Grade 2 and Sumeer, Junior Kidnergarten, are
Alisha Bapoo, Gr. 2 both graduates of the Value Parenting program. They
presenting her project on India both say: “The Dynamic Value Parenting course
provided a 'toolbox' of good parenting skills and become more mindful of how we relate to each other
techniques. as husband and wife. Prior to Jayden attending the
As and when situations Sai School, it was a challenge getting all the children
arise, as parents, we are to pray regularly. Since Jayden started light
now aware of these tools meditation and prayer, it changed the atmosphere at
and try our best to use home and the two oldest children are more receptive
them in our daily activities to praying and are more contemplative and
as parents and in our conscientious in their behaviour. Our entire family of
relationships with our six members has undergone transformation ever
children. Before taking since Jayden enrolled at the Sathya Sai School.”
the course, we were not Amy Vince and Indi Rico,
so consciously aware of the parents of Amy of
these techniques and Senior Kindergarten,
were less able to reflect admit that, “At the end of
Divakshi Rohan, Grade 2 on the right course of t h e D y n a m i c Va l u e
action to take as parents. Parenting course, we
Fortunately we took this course while our children understood how it
were small before we could do too much damage to allows all new parents to
them. find a level playing field
“As Canadian parents, who are also believers in the as we all are on the same
message of Sri Sathya Sai, we find that the values Amy Rico, SK page with regarding our
taught in the school both complement the positive responsibilities as the
values of Canadian culture and help to fill the 'gaps' school's partners. We are now more mindful about
where mainstream Canadian culture has continuing the same character education program at
shortcomings. The school's emphasis on the universal home while our children are in our care… As a Roman
values of punctuality, self-reliance, respect for diverse Catholic I find these values are life-affirming and
cultures, and charitable work are definite transcend the limitations of race and religion. They
reinforcements of the positive values that are present further reiterate the fundamentals of all faiths. We
in Canadian society. Where modern Canadian society have not seen another school that has such a
often falls short is in the areas of civic values: respect consistent quality of administration, and people who
for elders, responsibility to society, serving one's really care and exemplify the values themselves ”
parents and society as a whole - these values are Without parents on side, the school knows it cannot
present in the Sathya Sai School, and make for a more successfully implement its Character Education program.
well-rounded, well-cultured student.” Now, Ron is also Therefore the school administrators treat this aspect with
a trained facilitator of this workshop. a lot of care and these parent workshops are conducted
Another couple, Raanu and Mohan Singh of Toronto are always by specially trained facilitators from the larger Sai
busy parents raising four young children, one of whom family, who are, in fact, the backbone of the school. There
currently attends the Sathya Sai School. are also events like Family Nights which are held several
times a school year, grade-wise. On these occasions,
“Our four year old son
teachers or invited guests who are experts in their
Jayden is currently in
respective fields make presentations to the school
Junior Kindergarten.
parents on topics of concern and interest which range
Value Parenting neatly
from preparing nutritious vegetarian meals/snacks to the
tied together all the
effect of television and computer games on young
inspirational books we
children as well as responsible internet surfing, enabling
had been reading on
study habits and preparing for EQAO exams. This is yet
parenting. It taught us
another step to ensure that the school and every home
to deal with our kids by
work effectively as partners to help students blossom into
the tone we use to
beautiful beings.
Jayden Singh, JK communicate with
The 'Parents as partners' programme has become so
them. We have also
COVER STORY
Arabhi and Mom Mrs. Ratnajothy Volunteers mount the sacred name
at a student-led Parent Teacher meeting that makes the school so blessed
Nikita Hannides and Mom Irina admire Every wall is a labour of love by
artwork at the school the dedicated Sai Youth
successful that currently one of the most successful dusting, maintenance of classrooms, washrooms,
outreach projects of the school is in fact a parent council corridors, gym, playground and school equipment… all
sponsored programme The Walk for Values, in which cleaning and secretarial services are provided by men and
over 3,000 people participate annually, pledging to women who operate with clock-work precision,
practice a value for self-transformation and the according to their assigned schedule and undertake these
improvement of family and community life. Since 2006, chores as a part of their personal discipline. While many
the Walk for Values has become a national event with Sai volunteers are grateful school parents, others are
Centres participating across the country, raising
awareness about Baba's teachings on character and
values education, spirituality and morality. This year
(2007), the event became international with Australia
replicating the novel idea with its own national Walk for
Values.
Volunteers - Exemplars of Values in Action

It comes as a surprise to many that though the Sathya Sai
School of Canada with a student population of 160 in
eight grades (JK, SK, Gr. 1 6) has been functioning
smoothly for the last six years, yet till recently, it had no
janitorial staff! It was and still is served by the loving
hands of many committed volunteers.
From polishing the floors, to vacuuming, mopping, They fix anything be it plumbing and electrical work
Jan and Prem Singh (centre),

Sai youth exemplify committed school well-wishers f
“Bend the body, mend the mind” lanked by Dr. Revathi and Dr. E. Singh
members of the Sathya Sai fraternity across the Greater
Toronto Area, all committed to the highest social and civic
ideals befitting responsible citizenship.
The grateful school community consists of students, their
families, staff, Trustees, the Sai Organization of Canada
Volunteer Mrs. Parameswaran,

a retired Ontario teacher
provides one-on-one support to student
and scores of selfless volunteers, friends and supporters

who work during and after school hours and behind the
School volunteer # 1 Mr. Vinu Amin scenes to ensure its smooth and seamless running.
has been reporting for duty daily Three retired Ontario teachers Mr. Chetan Ahooja, Mr.
at 8 AM since school began
Mohinder Kapoor and Mrs. Vinay Nehru are volunteers
who run the school's Technical Studies Program, teaching
computer applications to students from Senior
Kindergarten to Grade 6.
Mrs. Vinay Nehru explains her motivation for driving a fair
distance to report for work: “As a high school teacher in
Ontario's public school system, I wasted half my
teaching life maintaining discipline. As though to
reward my patience and perseverance, now in my old
age, I have finally discovered a school where I come to
do what I am meant to do--that is teach children, not
discipline them. Oh, what a pleasure!
Dedicated volunteer Mrs. Shantha Jegapany “It is my hope that some day, all education, in all
works the night shift schools, all over the world will be imparted through
to serve the school during the day the medium of love, as it is at Sathya Sai School.”
COVER STORY
Her fellow volunteer teacher Mr. Mohinder Kapoor

relocated to work here. “Even though I lived in
Cornwall, about 400 kilometres away from the
school's location in Toronto, I felt that …. my
qualifications and experience as a retired educator
would be best utilized here. So I made the move…I
derive a great sense of inner satisfaction by doing this
little service at the Sathya Sai School. My mind is at
peace when I am in the company of the students,
staff, and many dedicated volunteers there,” he says.
Former school parent and volunteer

Dr. Nithya Ramani conducting a Science lesson
School parent and volunteer

Madame Narayya assists Miss Poddar
to deliver the French language
Principal Dr. Revathi felicitates
volunteer librarian and school parent
Mrs. Balsingh
….Here you ooze with joy while you grow in your

mind and heart.”
It takes many hands, hearts and minds and thousands of
man-hours of hard work to make this beautiful school
happen. Yet the common energy that propels everyone
involved to such altruism and selflessness is the powerful
personality of Sri Sathya Sai and His compelling example
of boundless love.
Every act of service performed at the school is an
Volunteer Visual Arts Teacher
Mrs. Sangeeta Rajwani teaches hands-on expression of gratitude to Swami for His gift of this
institution to Canada, a project that has now become a
Loved by her students, Mrs. Sangeeta Rajwani is the personal legend for each individual involved with it. To
school's highly creative Visual Arts volunteer teacher. She be associated with an institution that bears Sathya Sai
has been with the school for seven years now. Describing Baba's sacred name is a blessing and a responsibility that
her experiences, she says, “It's heaven on earth to be at no one ever takes for granted. The President of the Sri
the school. The children are angels. When I'm there, I Sathya Sai Education Trust of Canada, Mr. Dayal
forget everything about the outside world. I love His Mirchandani sees the school as “An ideal opportunity to
children. The moment I enter the building, I am able to unite all those who share this sacred vision of a
live in the present with no thought of where I just contemplative, values-based model of education.
came from or where I will be going when I leave. When we work in unity for a greater cause, not only
the students, but everyone involved experiences a
Nilayam in July 2006 to have the rare

chance of seeing Him, hearing Him,
talking to Him and also presenting a
drama titled Power of One. That is
when Saivijay Bhat of Grade 2 “Knew
that our Founder loves His students
where ever in the world they may
be. I am very happy and thankful
to be a student of the Sathya Sai
School of Canada.
What touched Grade 1 student
SaiSwaran Manorathan the most was
the opportunity to hear His voice. “I
heard Baba speak for the first time in
Volunteers: the lifeline of the school
person. Baba has the sweetest voice
spurt in inner growth.”
in the world. I know He always tells us to speak softly and
What makes the Sathya Sai School and every Sai project sweetly. He speaks softly and sweetly Himself!”
around the globe so sacred is that everyone and
Describing the ashram vibe, Saiprashani Jeyandran of
everything involved is directly inspired by Swami and His
Grade 2 says: “The atmosphere in Puttaparti was very
selfless nature. Like His life, Baba's service projects come
quiet and peaceful. I felt very powerful and gained
without any catch, fine print, strings attached, hidden
spiritual guidance. I actually touched Him gently by
agendas, expectation of gratitude or publicity of any
keeping my hand on His leg. That touch made me feel
kind.
powerful and blessed.”
The Sun Behind the Shine
Though always not
apparent to all, Swami
is, in fact, the life and
soul of this hallowed
school. He, is in fact,
their perfect role model
and hero. One day,
each of them aspires to
be as loving, selfless,
Beloved Founder - caring, compassionate
Everyone's favourite and wise as He is. The
students know it is a privilege to wear a uniform that Ganashsai and Thuvatagan with Swami
bears the crest of His unique school, which many of them at the conclusion of 'Power of One'
describe as a temple of learning.
“Sri Sathya Sai Baba is my favourite teacher. He tells
us to watch who we hang out with. He says: 'Tell me
your company and I will tell you who you are'. He
teaches us truth, honesty and optimism. He tells us to
live in unity because even though we all look different
on the outside, we are all the same inside. Isn't that so
cool?” says Archana Thayanithy of Grade 3.
Much of the student population has never met or seen
their beloved Founder in person, yet He looms large on
their emotional, mental and spiritual radar as a beacon of
all things good and positive. Many saw Him for the first He comes down lovingly to interact
time when they came as a big bubbly group to Prasanthi with His Canadian students
COVER STORY
Vannithamby of Grade 2 is a confident actor who got to Today, I still think of that smile. And I think of that
say some powerful lines to Baba up close and personally. experience, the experience of a lifetime!”
Recalling his good fortune, he says, “Looking straight at Each student relates to Swami in their own way. For
Swami, I said 'I am Sat, Chit, Ananda' (Awareness, Prashant Munshi of Grade 1, “Sai Baba is Love, Truth,
Consciousness and Bliss) with a lot of force and Right Conduct, Peace and Non-violence. On July 13,
confidence. It was a great feeling. Then the most when we performed in front of Sai Baba, I didn't take
important time came… My heart was beating so fast. my eyes off of Him even for a second. After the Grand
I walked with the garland towards Swami. Swami Finale, He asked me my name. I said “Prashant”. I felt
touched my forehead. I really don't know how to very, very happy. I felt as though I had fainted and my
explain my joy during this most precious moment. spirit just went out of my body and I felt very good. I
Even now, I feel His touch on my forehead every time I was filled with love. My gift for His love is that I will
think about Swami. I believe Swami really and truly never get into any bad habits. I will remember Him
loves me and accepted me as His child. I really am the and chant His name and I will always keep Him in the
luckiest kid in the world.” centre of my heart.”
Prem Sai Ramani, now a school alumnus, treasures his Grade 4 student Phillip
own precious memory. “There sat Swami, staring at us, Hannides' spiritual odyssey
sharing His love. It was bliss. You could feel His power began “Even before I
like a fireplace heating up a room. I looked up at Him arrived in India, I felt love
for every line I said, and whenever I did, He smiled, coming from our Founder.
smiling a Swami smile. It was one of those half I knew nothing would go
wrong because Swami
was there and He would
protect me. I felt like I
was going to have a good
time there and felt very
loved.
Phillip Hannides,
Grade 4 “When I arrived in India, I
already felt Swami's energy radiating through my
heart. When I saw our Founder for the very first time,
I felt very special. I realized He is always watching over
us and guiding us.”
Precious moments treasured His brother Nikita Hannides
for all times at the conclusion of 'Power of One' of Grade 6 received a life
lesson during the play. He
recalls: “When we were
singing the grand finale
song at end of the play
Power of One, I wanted to
make Swami happy. So I
smiled as big as I could
and the next moment, all
of a sudden, Swami had
this huge smile on his face. Nikita Hannides, Grade 6
Swami proved to me that
very second that if you truly love somebody, then that
It was joy and bliss to hear, touch person will always love you back. In the end, all our
and see Him, up close and in person
experiences are a reflection and resound of our own
feelings. I learned an important lesson in pure love.”
smiles. I can see that smile right now. It was a
beautiful smile. It was the highlight of my trip. Saeejith Nair of Grade 3 returned inspired to live up to the
Experiencing the Power of One in person

Sindura Thirumal and Saeejith during the play
heart, as if all my burdens were gone. But that's not

all. After performing the play, when He came to take
pictures with us, I got to touch His feet. The
experience was amazing and simultaneously gave me
an incredible energy surge. It was as if a bolt of
lightning had struck me. I felt as if good qualities had
replaced any bad habits. I felt perfect. That one
moment, I will cherish forever!”
An accomplished actor, Sindhura Thirumal of Grade 5
landed herself the lead role in the play. She took it to
heart and gave it her all and received so much more. She
A dream that finally came true! reflects: “After the whole play was over, He looked at
me and said, 'Come near me'. Later when I thought
name of the character he played in front of his Founder. about what He had said, I realized He meant for me to
“Now, my challenge in life is to become an earnest come close to Him spiritually because physically I was
person and a good human being, like the character already beside Him, at His right hand side. I felt
Ernest that I played in the drama.
With His love and His teachings to
guide me, I know I can do it.”
It was a close tryst that Ganesh Naidoo
of Grade 5 will never forget. “When I
touched His feet, I felt an electric
shock or energy shoot up my hand. I
also felt really warm for a little while
after that. I was surprised that I
wasn't nervous or scared to perform
for our Founder. I think that is
because I consider Him as an
incarnation of Love and a wonderful
leader,” he remembers.
For Grade 6 student Raajat Gupta, the
experience of being within Baba's aura
was fascinating. He says: “Every day,
when our Founder passed by me, I
could feel an uplifting feeling in my One precious picture worth a million priceless memories
COVER STORY
extremely blessed knowing that I would be closer to University visit the school to observe the Sathya Sai
Him spiritually because of what He had said. I now School model as part of their research on alternate
feel drawn to my spirit, the Power of the One within schools. This is what two B.Ed. students, who spent some
me.” time in the classrooms experiencing the life in a typical
Whatever their equation with the embodiment of love, Sri day at the Sathya Sai School of Canada for a week, said:
Sathya Sai, all students of His Canadian school enjoy an “The impact of positive encouragement from the
indescribable and special relationship with him. Their teachers demonstrates the well-behaved character of
pure hearts are drawn to the warmth of their beloved the students. Having visited various classrooms, I am
Founder whose generosity and loving care provides them impressed with the integration of the curriculum and
with such a nurturing environment to learn and grow. the five human values. As a future educator, I hope
one day I will be able to be a part of this dynamic
Touching Testimonials from
institution.” - Meron Keleta
Community Members and Institutions
"The character education program is “something
Given their outstanding behaviour and excellence in
extraordinary and so complimentary to the emotional
academics and extra-curricular activities, it is no wonder
development of children.” - Sumi Arif
that the students of the school have won many awards
and accolades, but what is more important is that all Upon return to their school, the teachers held an
these laurels have gone a long way in raising awareness of exhibition on the unique Sathya Sai education model. In
the importance of values and character education in their their email, they reported, “We presented Sathya Sai
community too. Their keen sense of engagement, School for our alternate school awareness storefront
discipline, public speaking and singing skills endear them at York University Keele campus on 13th April. Our
to people wherever they go. professors and classmates were amazed. They all said
this school is unbelievable, unique and extraordinary!
They have addressed rallies and assemblies on the place
of the five human values in their lives, which include an We presented all the information in a seminar and
Inter-faith prayer after the World Trade Centre tragedy made a poster for the storefront. Twenty five
and a welcome dinner for the Nobel Peace Prize winner alternate schools were presented on that day by our
Archbishop Desmond Tutu and various other community classmates. Sai School is now on the York University's
and political forums. list of best alternate schools.”
A local librarian was so impressed with the good
behaviour of the Sathya Sai students in her library that
she insisted the school call a meeting of parents in her
library so that she could tell them how special and
different and well-behaved Sathya Sai School students
were. At her request, the school held one of the school-
wide Family Nights at the Toronto Public Library where
Mrs. Linda Kennedy shared her admiration of Sathya Sai
Nobel Laureate Archbishop Desmond Tutu

with Mr. T.R. Pillay at a reception
where the School choir performed
At various Spelling Bee contests, students continue to

secure top positions in both the Senior and Junior
categories each year. This exposure has resulted in self-
assured, eager to learn, calm, model students, often wise
beyond their years.
From time to time, students from the Faculties of Students were specially invited
Education from the University of Toronto and York to the inauguration of the Malvern Public library
School students with the parents of the school. and empathy they are. They will change the world
Upon hearing of the school's stellar academic with their example! Your top standing is well
performance in the media in February this year, Mrs deserved. It has truly been an honour to work with
Kennedy wrote: “It was so wonderful to see that such a wonderful school. Congratulations!”
Sathya Sai School is considered one of the best in the The peaceful atmosphere in the school draws the awe of
country! Having worked with students and teachers even the most casual visitor to the school, be it the
since the school's inception, I have the greatest locksmith, or the mail carrier from Canada Post who once
respect for Sathya Sai School and have always felt spontaneously commented, "It feels nice here…unlike
that it is the best school I have ever known! The any school I have ever delivered mail at.”
teachers and students have been a joy to work with. A gentleman who drove a mobile dental hospital for a
The students demonstrate academic excellence, but special Brush-o-mania assembly two years ago, walked
what really stands out about them is how full of love into the school premises and wept because of what he
described as, “a self-cleansing experience - I feel my
soul has been washed here.”
[The Brush-o-mania is an annual event organized by
Rotarians in which the every student of the school
participates. The students get a guided educational tour
of a mobile dental van and learn about dental hygiene
integrated with human values.]
Mayor David Miller invited Saeejith Nair

to join him as he cut the ribbon
to inaugurate the new library
Dental hygienist from Brush-o-mania mobile

dental hospital explains oral hygiene
Chetana Yellukati introduced the school
and its choir to the audience at the function
Mrs. Linda Kennedy of the Toronto Raghav Bassi and Kirthana Sasitharan
Public Library reads to kindergartners check out how it feels to be a dentist
COVER STORY
The professional school photography company Lifetouch Kindergarten, our Principal Mr. Pillay addressed each
Canada that comes for the annual picture day routine is of us by our first name and greeted us every morning
also pleased with the discipline of the children. Every and bid us goodbye at the doorstep after school. I felt
year the photographers comment on the smoothness so loved... The most important lesson I have learned is
with which they are able to accomplish their job at the that no matter how highly educated I am or whatever
Sathya Sai School as compared to other schools. The position I achieve in life, the only thing that matters is
manager had once vowed that if she ever had a child, this my character. In order to develop my character, I have
was the school she would send him/her to. to work on it right from my childhood and apply all
Sathya Sai's love energy pervades the atmosphere the five human values to everything I do in life.
palpably and is evident in many ways, including the ” Parnika is a recipient of the school's coveted MODEL 3
unusual phenomenon of the 'growing garland' - the award which stands for the characteristics of a true
lovely garland on Baba's photo that has mysteriously practitioner of the five human values. Decoded, it means,
grown longer to unimaginable lengths, sometimes Motivated, Organised, Disciplined, Exemplary and Loving
double the size on rare occasions. in three ways - Love for Learning, Love for Humanity and
the Environment, and Love for God.
One parent who is all too familiar
with the school's loving environment
is Irina Visotskaya whose children
Nikita Hannides and Phillip Hannides
attend Grades 6 and 4 at the Sathya
Sai School. For Irina, “God is Time.
God answered our prayers at the
hardest time of our life. A few
months after my children had
joined the school, their father
"We are all petals in the ever-growing garland of love." passed away. The love and
support we received from
The growing garland for the school is a potent symbol, everyone at the school was so heartwarming and
latent with valuable lessons. The common thread that exactly what the boys and I needed at that time.
runs through the diverse petals tying them into a whole, God's love is so amazing! He takes the world away
symbolize the underlying sap of life that runs through all but gives His immeasurable, unconditional love
diversity connecting everyone and everything in the instead…in our case, God washed us with an
universe. Many see it as a symbol of the growing abundance of this love through our association with
influence of the school's values-based Character the school community…Learning your true nature by
Education program in the community. practicing love is what the Sathya Sai School of
For eight year old Parnika Canada teaches.”
Godkhindi of Grade 2 her For Grade 2 student Sindu's parents Lini and Jeyapalan
most treasured Rajalingam, this wisdom is quite apparent: “Day in and
experiences at the school day out, we find that Sindu is learning and growing a
include, “Those lot as a student of Sathya Sai and is also teaching us
overgrown garlands on life lessons. Sometimes, he comments on our
our Founder Sri Sathya behaviours when we least expect it and those
Sai Baba's picture. They comments are profound and very meaningful that
make me feel His divine you would not otherwise hear from an average seven
presence in our school, year old.”
M.O.D.E.L.3 student filling the atmosphere
with divinity, warmth,
Sensitizing Public Educators
Parnika Godkhindi,
Grade 2 As part of its efforts to create awareness about values
love and peace. I will
among educators of other schools and institutions as
also never forget when I joined the school in Junior
well as members of local community, on March 23,
2005, the Sathya Sai School of Canada sponsored a “To take the effort to its next logical step, the Sathya Sai
National Symposium on Character Education, School also hosted a 4 day workshop on Character
followed by a Four-Day Workshop presented by Carole Education for teachers, again free of cost, over the Easter
Alderman of the British Institute of Sathya Sai Education weekend. One hundred participants, many of whom are
in which nearly 100 teachers and community workers educators, from all over Canada, attended the workshop
participated. According to Dr. M.V. Kanchana, the conducted by Carol Alderman, the Director of the British
National Education Coordinator of the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Sathya Sai Education. All of them went home
Organization of Canada, “The Workshop and well equipped with the necessary tools to implement
Symposium were well attended by teachers showing SSEHV in their respective places,” adds Dr. Kanchana.
interest in the integration of values in the curriculum. Carol Alderman has extensive experience in training
The presentation made by the teachers of the Sathya teachers in the UK to organize their daily lesson plans,
Sai School, at the symposium, provided a model for learning activities inside and outside the classroom from
integrating values in the existing curriculum. The a values perspective. Participants from across Canada
message was very well received and appreciated by attended the workshop to learn ways to integrate the
the educators who attended the symposium. The universal human values, through song, story and hands-
symposium stressed on character education as the on activities, within the daily academic curriculum.
key to deal with the decline in the moral values,
Summer Camp Inspires Inner City Students
growing violence and drug abuse among children and
The Summer Camp was one of the first initiatives
society in general.
emerging from the Character Education Symposium and
SSEHV Workshop in March 2005. One hundred
participants had received training in the SSEHV program
and as a result, members of the Sai Organization under
Carole Alderman and Michelle White

of the British Institute of Sathya Sai Education
at the Symposium
Participating teachers at the conference
Educators and policy makers

attended the symposium
to learn about human values Role playing by participants at the workshop
COVER STORY
the guidance of the Principal and Staff of the Sathya Sai all stakeholders, young and old, who treasure it as Sathya
School of Canada were well prepared to take it into the Sai's priceless token of love to Canada. For the group of
wider community. 333 which included school students, staff, trustees,
The request to conduct an EHV Summer Camp in a public volunteers and their families, who traveled to Prasanthi in
school came immediately after the symposium from the July 2006 to express their gratitude to Swami, though
Principal of Brookview Middle School that is situated in a their presentation “Power of One”, Sai is the 'Only One'
low-income area in Toronto. It was the opportunity the soul and goal of their lives. July 13, 2006, the day when
Sai Organization was waiting for, and the timing was Swami witnessed the drama remains etched in gold in the
perfect. annals of the school's history.
In her appreciation letter, the Principal wrote: The geographic distance between Prashanthi Nilayam
and the school in Toronto might be huge, but that does
“Many thanks for introducing the values program in
not dampen or diminish the warmth and the spirit of pure
the form of a summer camp. The young facilitators
love that everyone and everything at this special school
(youth volunteers) were superb
and of the highest caliber. The
Brookview students were sad to
see the program end as they had
and made incredible gains from all
the activities and relationships
which were forged and fostered
through your magnificent
program.”
As a result of the camp, the Principal
of Brookview Public School invited
Mr. T.R. Pillay, the then Principal of
the Sathya Sai School of Canada to
speak to her staff on Character
Education at her school's
professional retreat in August 2005.
He was accompanied by the teachers
of the Sathya Sai School who
The school’s annual year-end concert reinforces the message
presented the public school teachers
of the five human values through dance, song and drama
with practical ideas on how to
integrate values into the Ontario
curriculum. These presentations
were well-received.
Crown Jewel of
Canada Sai Organization
British Columbia based school
Trustee Dr. S.V. Evani described the
school that binds the devotees of
Swami across Canada, from the
Atlantic to the Pacific coast, as “The
crown jewel of the Canadian Sai
organization”.
And how true it is! It is in fact, a
beacon of light, committed to
revitalizing timeless values. Today,
the Sathya Sai School of Canada has Common folks, let us all “Love All, Serve All”!
emerged as the learning ground for
reflects. Every morning, people and we are capable

future world leaders, arrive at of anything. I know that no
the Sathya Sai School of matter what, I will always
Canada, looking bright in stay special and I know that
their neat uniforms, ready to no one can ever change
allow the infinite goodness that. I know that I am
within them to unfold. Many perfect the way I am. When
of them are too young to a person has confidence,
realize the many vital the universe will change its
responsibilities that await way to yours. It is
them as the harbingers of a wonderful. I know for sure,
brave new world order, one God has made us for a
where the human values will purpose and that purpose,
govern all fields of life. Also only we know. I will be
unknown to them is their ready to face the world and
imminent and good fortune its ways and I know in my
to usher in a new age where heart that I can achieve
entire humanity will realize anything as long as I stay
the oneness and sacredness rooted to my practice of the
of all creation, thereby five human values.”
fulfilling the prophecies that
Drawing guidance and
reflect humanity's highest
inspiration from its matchless
aspirations.
Founder, universal teacher, Sri
With complete confidence in Sathya Sai Baba, the school
the validity of the organic community is looking
The Soul of the Canada Sai School
values that make it so unique, forward to further growth,
the Sathya Sai School of both within and without, to
Canada is forging ahead, pioneering the integration of achieve greater success. The school aspires to be a model
Character Education with Academic Excellence. It is of holistic learning in North America, growing to a middle
focused on promoting human excellence by raising good, and high school. Some parents hope that one day it will
wholesome future Canadian leaders and global citizens, become the Sathya Sai University of Canada, just as
instead of merely great whiz kids. Sathya Sai Baba said on 17 November, 1999: “start small
Kumaran Subendran of Grade 4 is one such future leader. and grow big” for it is His school, a school He has
He joined the school in Junior Kindergarten. He is already blessed! As Prarthana echoed the sentiment so
concerned about his graduation coming up in two years. prophetically, when we have confidence in our vision, the
“I will miss my beloved school, my friends and the universe will change its ways to ours, and luckily for
most loving teachers. It is the best school ever. I hope those, who have experienced the impact of the Sathya Sai
to take the values in my heart wherever I go. I will be a School of Canada, there is no dearth of trust in the Power
leader and help others. I will not use bad language of One that started it all!
and hurt anyone. I will show compassion and be a To know more about the school, please visit
good role model, just like my teachers here. To inspire www.sathyasaischool.ca
others to follow my example, I will have to let go of
Author: Ms. Karuna Sarup-Munshi, currently works as
my bad qualities. I will continue to work and improve
the Office Administrator at the Sathya Sai School of
my character and in the coming years, I will possess
Canada. She is a Gold medalist in M.A., Philosophy from
the qualities of a good leader and role model.”
the Anantapur campus of Sri Sathya Sai University. An
Prarthana Tirikollur, of Grade 6 will be completing seven experienced journalist, she has also worked in the social
years at the school in June when she will graduate and justice movement.
join the public school system. Her take-away from her
school experience, is a boost in self-confidence, the most
vital ingredient in a person's character. “We are amazing
FEATURE ARTICLES
stuffing the brain; instead, it must address in a balanced

manner the needs of the body, the mind, and the soul.
THE GREATEST
Swami often says that Education must be for life and not
WONDER OF THE WORLD
for merely eking out a living. If life is to be lived the way it
By Prof. G Venkataraman
really ought to be, then clearly a good and noble
character must be the foundation; Integral Education is
This year, the Sri Sathya Sai University has passed its what facilitates the development and moulding of good
twenty-fifth anniversary. [This article was written in character. This system of Integral Education was
November 2006]. The University is fairly well known in the conceived and crafted by Bhagavan Baba and
country today, and understandably there are many implemented by the first Vice Chancellor Prof. V K Gokak,
visitors. Some come to just look around; some to attend from which time it has been operating most successfully.
Seminars and Conferences here, some to teach, some
As for the second of the two points mentioned above, in
others as examiners; a few come for discussions, or for
His Benedictory Address delivered on November 22,
evaluation; many come to attend the annual
1986, on the occasion of the Fifth Convocation, Swami
Convocation; many more visit to witness the Sports
said,
Festival.
“Education must reveal the path, which enables man
to tap the dormant spring of Divinity within, without
becoming entangled with the mass of created
objects.
Sri Sathya Sai University
Everyone unfailingly sees the fine buildings, the

wonderful campuses, the admirable discipline, the spirit
of self-confidence and self-reliance amongst the It has to lay stress on spiritual transformation, which
students, etc. All these are what readily meet the eye. I is more fundamental than even moral uplift. The real
would rather like to describe and discuss in this article sign of an educated person is his equal attitude
what visitors do not normally see. It is said in Vedanta that
towards all. He sees in Society, the manifestation of
what seems real is unreal and what does not seem real is
Divinity. Education does not divert man from Nature
Real. In the same way, where Swami's Institute is
to the all-pervading Atma. Rather, it leads man to
concerned, it is what people do not normally see that tells
study Nature with the unifying Atmic outlook.”
the real story of this truly remarkable University.
This statement is very important, especially the last two
Unique Philosophy - Unique Personality sentences, because they give us a clue to the remarkable
To put matters in perspective, I would like to begin by
and intimate relationship that Swami has with His
referring to two points. The first concerns the philosophy
students. Let us turn now to the history of the Institute.
underlying the educational system adopted here, while
the second pertains to Swami's unique relationship with Ladies First
The seeds were sown way back in 1968, when Swami
His students. As far as the first is concerned, Swami is
established in Anantapur, a College for women. It was
quite clear that education must not be reduced to just
THE GREATEST WONDER OF THE WORLD
significant that His first College was for women rather would say, “No, no, turn back and listen to your Teacher!”
than men; that in itself tells a story. One thing about He used to be that casual! (From Radio Sai Archives).
Swami is that once He wills/wishes/decides to do Now why did Swami occasionally visit the classroom?
something, He wastes no time in getting started. Thus, Was it to check on the Teacher? Not entirely; He would, at
without waiting for the buildings to be ready, the the end of the class, often place the lesson taught in a
Women's College started functioning right away in wider perspective, far beyond what even the Teacher was
temporary quarters. The buildings came later and were aware of.
duly inaugurated by the then President of India, Mr. V V
Whenever there was something important going on in
Giri. That was in the year 1968. Speaking on that
Prasanthi Nilayam, Swami would send for the Anantapur
occasion, Bhagavan Baba said,
students and give them a chance to participate in the
“India is being forged into Bhogabhoomi [land of local activities. For example, they often used to come to
luxury], a land of skyscrapers, tinned food, air- help with the construction of the Sarva Dharma Stupa
conditioning, and television. Indians are being that now majestically stands near the Mandir, and with
shaped into an imitative, insurgent, ill-disciplined the construction of the Poornachandra Auditorium. Here
mass. They are being transplanted on other soils and is a charming recollection of those days from Dr.
encouraged to grow without roots. This is an insult to Rajeswari Patel:
the past and a dangerous defiance of history. It is a "When the Sarva Dharma
sacrilege on the history of Time, and on the sole Stupa was being built, every
purpose of the human body. That is the reason I have week a bus used to be sent to
decided that this College be inaugurated on Anantapur and we used to
Gurupoornima Day, as a reminder of the highest come to Puttaparthi to help
tradition, in which the highest ideals of life were in the construction. Today
instilled by personal example and guidance by the when we see that structure,
Guru, to pupils eager to imbibe…The seed has been we feel an intimate
planted; it will sprout and spread, heavy with fruits, association with it. Swami
providing shade, security, and sustenance to all.” used to come, go round, and
Yes, the seed had indeed been planted, and what a supervise. I remember He
majestic and magnificent tree has emerged from that tiny once gave us an Interview right there, sitting on a small
seed! Education being dear to Swami, He did not stop chair. We all sat around Him on the sand near the Stupa
with merely establishing the Anantapur College. Rather, under construction. He then brought oranges, even as we
He became deeply involved in its functioning and made were singing Bhajans. The song went: “Aao Sai!” Swami
regular visits to Anantapur, spending several days at a smiled and responded: “Aatha hoon! Aatha hoon!” He
time. There, He would talk to students and teachers, then came near and started tossing oranges to each one
listen to Bhajans for extended periods, go on inspection of us. It was all so wonderful!" (From Radio Sai Archives).
trips around the Campus, and give Discourses. He would
Brindavan Blessings
even drop into classrooms, sit at the back and quietly The next step in Swami's Educational Mission was the
listen to the lecture in progress! Dr. Rajeswari Patel, founding of a College for men in Brindavan. This
formerly a student of the Anantapur Campus and now a happened in 1969, and this is how late Mr. Kasturi recalls
teacher there, recalls those events: that event.
The beautiful thing is He used to come and sit inside the On the opening day, the College looked spick and span
classroom, when the classes were going on. He would sit ….. On 9th June, 1969, the Chief Minister of Mysore
behind, and listen to the lecture. And if the students State, Mr. Veerendra Patil had the honour of inaugurating
turned round to look at Him, which they often did, He the College. ….. Speaking on that occasion, Dr. V K
FEATURE ARTICLES
had been with the Anantapur students. Here is how

Kasturi describes it.
There is no activity of the College in which Baba does not
evince interest, for He knows that it is the atmosphere in
which education is imparted and imbibed that really
counts. Since the College and the Hostel are situated
within the compound, Baba walks in during the Prayer
Session, presides over Moral Instruction Lectures, and
Himself supplements the Instructor. He writes and directs
plays for the College Dramatic Society.
Often, He pats a good student on the back, pulls up a
Lecturer who saunters into the Lecture Hall a few minutes
after the bell, inquires from a sluggard the percentage of
marks he secured at the monthly test, creates a fountain
pen or a watch for some diligent, well-behaved boy about
whom the Principal has given a report that confirms His
own opinion, advises the Librarian about classification,
peeps into the dissection room of the budding zoologists
and generally moves about as the Guardian Deity of the
Institution. (Sathyam Sivam Sundaram - Part III, SSSBPT,
Gokak, Vice Chancellor of Bangalore University to which Prasanthi Nilayam, 1974, p.58)
the College is affiliated welcomed the new addition as “a Kasturi was no doubt a keen witness to all that Swami
gem in the crown of the Bangalore University.” Dr. Gokak was engaged in during those days, but it is from the
added, “This College would set the pattern for College students that we get a more detailed picture, and what
education, not only in the academic field but also in the an amazing picture that is! Those were the days before
ethical and spiritual fields. This is a College conceived, the present Trayee came into existence. At that time,
devised, and completed by Baba's Love, Grace, and there used to be a building known as the “Old Bungalow”
Wisdom. Brick by brick, plank by plank, He attended to which was Swami's residence. Swami's quarters were
every detail. It is a lesson for all who seek to do sincere upstairs, and one of the rooms below, which in earlier
loving service.” (Sathyam Sivam Sundaram - Part III, days had apparently served as a garage, was the Hostel!
SSSBPT, Prasanthi Nilayam, 1974, pp.54-55) This gave the boys of that era an unimaginable proximity
In those days, Swami spent most of His time in Brindavan, that students of today would scarcely believe.
which meant that He became even more deeply involved Many a morning, Swami would come down and
in shaping the students of the Brindavan College than He personally wake up the boys for the Suprabhatham. There
were a few cows attached to the Ashram, and it was the
boys who did the milking! Often Swami would ask about
the yield, the health of the cows and so forth. The boys
had to help the cook, and their duties included making
chapathis! Swami would drop in, watch the boys rolling
chapathis, rally them on the odd shapes they were
producing, and at other times give tips on how to get the
shape right! When old students recall those days, the
dominant feeling one gets is that they were all living like
are so dear to Me! Even though I went away from there in

a huff, you should not become depressed. I did so in the
interest of discipline. I want all of you to become good
boys, God's boys! That alone would save you!” That letter
really touched us all! (From Radio Sai Archives)
In short, during those glorious Brindavan days, the boys
were literally living with God, picking up innumerable
lessons most unconsciously. I shall comment on the
lessons themselves a little later but let me now offer an
example of how close the bond between Swami and the
students is, and how He responds to their wishes. The
incident happened sometime after the permanent
buildings for the Brindavan College had been built this is
the fine edifice that we all see today, beyond the sports
field. Though the College had a new building, the
students continued to live in the improvised Hostel, and
Swami was not too happy about that. So He asked late
Col. Joga Rao, a retired Civil Engineer who planned and
built all the buildings in those days, to plan a good Hostel
one big family. Work was not always specifically assigned for the Brindavan boys.
but the boys instinctively knew what had to be done and Joga Rao did as told, located a site adjacent to the new
when. The spectrum of work the boys were involved in College building, got it cleared, drew up a plan for the
during those days is astounding everything from security Hostel, got Swami's approval and even fixed a date for
duty, to whitewashing, tree planting, and taking care of Swami to lay the foundation stone. On the previous day,
the birds and deer that used to live in a cage adjoining the Swami dropped in at the temporary Hostel and started
Bungalow. talking about the new Hostel, the wonderful facilities it
Swami no doubt gave boys many liberties but that did would have, etc. Something amazing happened then,
not mean He compromised on discipline. Here is a recall and this is how Mr. Veda Narayanan, then a student and
from Dr. S Siva Sankar Sai, now a senior member of the now a Teacher in Swami's High School for Boys recalls that
Physics Faculty and Warden of the Prasanthi Nilayam incident.
hostel; at the time of the incident, he was a student; this is The day before that, Swami came to the garage that
what he says: served then as the Hostel, sat down, looked around and
One day, Swami got very angry about the discipline of the said, “Boys, soon you will have a new Hostel. Here you are
students. He told us He was going away and left for all cramped and have absolutely no convenience
Prasanthi Nilayam. We all became upset and did not whatsoever. Swami is not happy about that. In the new
know what to do. The then Warden blasted us and said, Hostel, things would be much better and you would have
“If you behave like this, you would lose the opportunity to many facilities that are absolutely lacking here.
enjoy Divine proximity. Now repent for what you have Tomorrow, I shall be laying the foundation stone.”
done.” All the boys prayed intensely and the Bhajan There was a small boy standing next to Swami, and he
sessions became passionate and emotional; they were was holding a letter in his hand. Swami turned to that boy
very nice. About a week later, Swami wrote a most and picked up that letter. He then read it, after which He
beautiful and loving letter. He said, “Boys! Though I came turned to the boy and said, “Shall I read out this letter to
off here, I just cannot help thinking about you. All of you the boys assembled here?” The boy who gave the letter
FEATURE ARTICLES
replied, “Swami, as You Venkatachalam, who for many years has been supervising
wish.” Swami then called the Mess and other facilities in the Senior Boys Hostel in
the Warden and asked Prasanthi Nilayam recalls: In those days, Bhajans used to
him to read aloud the be held very late, around 11 a.m. So Swami would find
letter. The Warden did so. time to come to the Hostel around 10 o'clock.
The boy had written, I would be alone then
“Swami, we do not want since all the students,
any new Hostel. The barring those who had
present accommodation fallen sick, would have
can easily take in another gone away to attend
two hundred boys. We classes. Swami would
can always adjust. If we come to the Hostel in His
go to the new Hostel, we car and I would open the
would be far away from door it was all very
Swami's Mandir. We just casual. The first thing
do not want to go away from Swami. If Swami is so Swami would ask is,
particular about the new Hostel building planned next to “What's the news? Have
the College, then Swami must have a new Mandir all gone to the classes or
constructed right next to the proposed new Hostel. Then are some boys sick?”
we are prepared to move into the new Hostel; otherwise, Swami would then ask me to lead Him to the rooms
we would like to stay here, right next to Swami.” where the sick boys were staying. There He would drag a
Swami was so touched that He immediately sent for Col. chair, sit on it, and then talk to the boys. It would be just a
Joga Rao and said, “Joga Rao, the boys say they do not small talk but very soothing for the sick boys, since it was
want to move from here. Can the Hostel be built right always full of Love. Swami would then materialise vibhuti
next to the Mandir?” Joga Rao replied, “Swami, that is for the sick boys and tell me, “Take good care of the boys.
not possible; there is no place around here. In the only When I get back, I shall send a doctor to attend on the
open spot available, we have a tank here.” And then, boys.” After that, Swami would go on an inspection tour,
something amazing happened. Right there, Swami visiting the dining hall, the kitchen and even the
started explaining to Joga Rao how a building could be bathrooms! If the place was not clean, He would pull me
constructed around the tank! And that is how the up saying, “You fellows keep everything clean when
Brindavan Hostel came to be where it now is, right next to Swami is coming for a function, but rest of the time? No,
Swami's Mandir, all because one boy spoke so feelingly, the place must be clean all the time.” Swami never
touching Swami's Heart! (From Radio Sai Archives) scolded me or ever got angry with me. Yes, He criticised
me and chided me for my lapses but it was always tinged
Lastly, a College in Prasanthi Too
In 1979, Swami established the third College, this time in with a lot of good humour. To me, He was ever intimate
Prasanthi Nilayam. Unlike the other Colleges, this was to but also Divine! (From Radio Sai Archives)
be substantially a Post-graduate institution. Once again, Teachers too were quietly taught many valuable lessons.
the classes commenced first in improvised locations, the Here is a recall by Dr. Sainath of the Physics Department,
building coming up later. Swami now began to spend going back to the time when Swami often used to
more time in Prasanthi Nilayam, but His interactions with casually drop in at the sports field to witness matches in
the boys remained as intimate and vibrant as ever before. progress. This is what happened when Swami came to
Caring for students did not always mean talking directly witness a volleyball match:
to students. He did this in many ways, as Mr. During that time when the volleyball match was going
on, Swami turned to Take the enforcement

one of the Teachers of discipline; it has to
and said to him, “You be a carrot and stick
see this game? approach. Take games
There is a big lesson and sports; they are
in it. You see that very much needed for
person serving the a healthy b o d y.
ball? Once he serves However, be careful
the ball, his and avoid aggression; and make sure you do not get hurt.
teammates would As for food, eat well, but in moderation. Go ahead and
do anything, eat ice cream if you want to! (In fact, Swami Himself
including crawl on their knees, bruise their forearms distributes ice cream on many occasions.) But let
and elbows, to make sure the ball does not touch the everything be within limits. You want to go on a picnic?
ground. Your job is something like that. I serve the Go ahead and enjoy nature nothing wrong in it. (In fact,
ball, and you must ensure that the ball does not touch when He goes to Kodai Kanal, Swami Himself takes the
the ground. I give the initial push and it is up to the boys out for picnic, complete with games and snacks!)
Teachers and senior students to make sure that the The long and short of it is: “Live in this world and don't try
enthusiasm, the discipline and the lessons that I to run away from it. Lead a full life; but live seeing God
teach, never slack. They must maintain them always." always and everywhere.” Swami tells us that this is
(From Radio Sai Archives) precisely what Emperor Janaka did; and now, He is quietly
teaching that same lesson all the time.
I can go on and on in this vein, recalling innumerable
instances of how Swami grants Divine intimacy to His All this is fine but does it really work? Does it all rub off on
students and teachers, moulding and shaping them in the students, and how do they behave when they go out
amazing ways, but I shall not since that is beyond the into the wide world? I can write chapter and verse on this
scope of the present article. Instead, let me place all the subject but shall restrict myself to citing just one example,
above in the context of the second of the two points a powerful example I might add, brought to public
mentioned in the beginning. attention by Sanjay Sahni, now Principal, Brindavan

Campus. This is what Sanjay said during a Panel
Learning by Divine Example
Discussion at the time of the Summer Course in 2002. It is
By being close and
all about a Sai student who was caught up in a city torn by
intimate with students
riots, and how he put Swami's teachings into practice in
and teachers, Swami
an hour of crisis:
grants them a chance
to observe Him in Character Shines in a Crisis
action. And what is it There was this youngster who was in Ahmedabad, when
He wants them to see? the riots broke out. To his utter horror, this boy found that
He wants them to see people whom he had known for years, his friends, his
how Swami deals with the world. Where dealing with the neighbours whom he used to address as uncle, people
world is concerned, Swami is very practical. who were well-to-do, people who were well educated, all
of them were leaving their homes to join the mob.
Yes, He does want students to worship God, pray to Him,
meditate on Him, and so on. However, Swami does not The mob was in a frenzy and in a killing spree. The
want them to become monks or recluses. Instead, He youngster asked himself the question: “What should I
wants His students to look at the world and nature in a do? What is my duty? What is my Dharma in this
practical and yet divine way. particular situation?” After pondering for a while, the boy
FEATURE ARTICLES
came to the conclusion that he would not join the mob; if familiar with it, the
he did, he would himself turn crazy. He said to himself, more I am amazed.
“The least I can do is not to join the mob; if I cannot help, Officially, Swami is
at least let me not cause harm.” That is the first principle supposed to be the
of service. Chancellor of the
His next thought was: “I cannot stop the riot; I cannot put Institute. In practice,
out this raging fire. But there are people out there whom I He is anything but the
know. Perhaps if I talk to them, I might convince at least Statutory Chancellor.
some of them not to participate in arson.” He did talk to a Students hail Him as
few and succeeded in preventing them from joining the F a t h e r, M o t h e r,
mob. To prevent people from doing evil is also service. Te a c h e r , Friend,
Philosopher, Guide, etc. All these roles He undoubtedly
plays. But beyond all that, as Dr. Gokak so aptly described
Him once, Swami guides them all silently as the very
Chancellor of the Universe.
Yes, Swami has been quietly teaching that there is really
nothing airy-fairy about the Atma. And one can deal with
the Omnipresent Atma immanent in the diversity of
Creation, without any mumbo jumbo, enjoying the good
things in life, and by being helpful, kind and
compassionate as much as possible. What is unique
about the Institute is that though it has many Campuses,
Departments and Teachers, in essence, there is only One
Finally, he asked himself: “There are so many people Teacher, and that is Swami.
affected by the riots. Can I help them in some way, say by Truly speaking the Institute is a modern Gurukulam, with
talking to them and consoling them?” He did just that. Swami playing the role of the Guru. The students live with
That was positive action, and it did not cost a penny. the Guru, learning constantly from Him. Only, this Guru is
What better testimony is needed to highlight the impact no ordinary Guru, but the Guru of Gurus, that is, God.
Bhagavan Baba makes on His students! That is what makes this Institute, at least for me, the
I have had the privilege to see many Universities all over greatest wonder of the world. Jai Sai Ram!
the world, but I can honestly say that I have never seen
anything like Swami's Institute. The more I become Dear Reader, did you find this article helpful? Would you
like more articles on the Institute? Please tell us at
h2h@radiosai.org mentioning your name and country.
Thank you for your time.
THE SAI MOVEMENT IN CHILE
THE SAI MOVEMENT

IN CHILE
"In the beginning of time, God created the wonders of

the world. When He was finished, however, He saw
that He had many leftover pieces. He had parts of
rivers and valleys, of oceans and lakes, of glaciers and
deserts, of mountains and forests, and of meadows
The alluring Atacama desert
and hills. Rather than to let such beauty go to waste,
God put them all together and cast them to the most
remote corner of the earth. This is how Chile was
born."
- A Chilean Legend
Charismatic Chile - Bountifully Blessed

It's amazing how this long thin narrow strip of land which
streches 4630 kms north to south but is only 260 miles in
its widest point east to west is packed with some of
nature's stunning treasures.
Dazzling cornfields
From the highest
volcano in the world to
the world's southern-
most city to one of the
most isolated and
intriguing isles on this
planet; from the driest
place on earth to the
wettest place in South
America; from one of the
The steaming geysers at El Tatio
highest geyser fields in
the world to mind-
boggling rock and sand
Map of Chile formations; from world-
renowned vineyards to flamingo filled lakes; enormous
glaciers to awe-inspiring mountains; the highest peaks in
the Americas to rich untamed forests; the finest
agricultural lands to captivating National Parks; world-
class ski resorts to hotsprings and unbeatable beaches
the astonishing landscape of Chile is all this and much
Llamas at the Lauca national park
more.
A land of great beauty and even greater contrasts, Chile, between Edinburgh and Baghdad is truly a natural
the longest north-south country in the world with its inspiration. The country is located along the Pacific coast
southwest coast covering roughly the same distance of South America, and is bounded by Peru in the north, by
FEATURE ARTICLES
Bolivia and Argentina in the east, and by the Pacific Ocean Northern Chile Bewildering Beauty
in the west and the south. And it is a non-stop exciting Northern Chile is a land of extreme contrast, where two
journey as one moves from region to region of this uniquely Andean environments, Altiplano and the
fascinating country. Atacama Desert, combine with unpredictable and
overwhelmingly beautiful results. While the vast and
striking Atacama Desert is the driest desert in the world
(which has some parts where no precipitation has ever
been recorded!), Altiplano is the most extensive area of
high plateau on earth outside of Tibet. It receives some
tropical rains in January and February and altitude, rather
than aridity, is the limiting factor governing life on this
airy plateau. Only the hardiest and most highly
specialized flora and fauna survive in the vagaries of life at
a staggerring 12,000 ft. The breathtaking barren
Chilean Flamingos in their element landscape of the north extends from the coast to the
Andes, where lovely snowcapped peaks tower above the
desert, presenting a unique contrast. The meandering
Loa River here is its only perennial stream.
Condors of the Andes, masters of the skies
Another view of the Atacama desert
This northern part, at the same time, is a mineral rich

region too blessed with one of the world's largest copper
reserves (Chuquicamata). It is not only the burgeoning
trade in minerals but also its many ports, where a variety
of goods from Asia are distributed to neighboring
countries, which has kept its economy always buoyant.
And add to this the tourists, whose number is only rapidly
increasing, thanks to its beautiful Andean-range
mountains, salt lakes on their high plateau, filled with
unique species of Pink Flamingos and Condors and
animals like Llamas, Alpacas and Guanacos. Northern
Chile is prosperous, beautiful and serene, all at the same
Alapacas grazing in the Andes time.
majestic in its silence bereft of plant or animal life. It is

imposing yet beautiful, especially in the twilight hours
when the Sun makes escarpments of green, blue, red and
yellow colors with the most diverse and surprising forms.
This is the place NASA tests vehicles designed for Martian
or Lunar grounds.
Santiago - Stunning and Booming

Coming to the central region of this country, it is a
different feel altogether with a pleasant Mediterranean
type of climate. More than half the country's population
live here. Santiago, the capital city of six millions
inhabitants, is a bustling city and quite modern: new
Chuquicamata copper mine
highways pass under the river that runs through it while
Moon on Earth! tunnels and fast roads crisscross the city. The
But we are not done with Northern Chile yet. There is underground transport system is a spick-and-span
another fascinating and oft visited place in this region system known for its efficiency and moderate cost.
which is extraordinarily attractive by its similarity with the
The omnipresent Andes are the backdrop for the city. The
moon surface and natural coliseo of great dimensions.
amazing feature of this place is that within one hour you
Aptly known as “the Moon Valley” and wonderfully can be at the office, skiing at one of the many ski resorts
formed by the natural forces of the encounter of the or resting at a beach by the Pacific Ocean!
Atacama desert with the Andes mountain range, this
region is, infact, a slice of the moon surface, complete
with interesting sand and stone formations, absolutely
Santiago embraced by the Andes

It is like walking on the moon
Skyscrapers and massive mountains
With its fertile soils, and political as well as economic

Paranal Observatory framed by the moon stability, this middle portion of the country, is the nation's
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Sections of this region, which is in the direct path of moist

westerly winds, receive more than 100 in. (254 cm) of
precipitation annually.
Plaza in Concepcion
The panoramic view from Cape Horn
The sanctity of Santiago cathedral
most populous and productive region and as a

The lake and volcano at Villarica
consequence, the country's political and cultural center. It
contains Chile's largest cities - Santiago, Valparaiso (the
This southern region is blessed with an alpine-like climate
seat of the Chilean congress), and Concepción.
and has many pellucid lakes and untouched wooded
Understandably, the regional headquarters of many
areas. Lake Villarica and its volcano of the same name, are
international enterprises have their headquarters here.
part of this beautiful expanse; the volcano resembles
This highly industrialized section of Chile produces a large
Mount Fuji (Japan) because of its perfect shape. This
variety of quality manufactured products and is
area's most attractive feature is perhaps its unexplored
abundant in mineral deposits like copper, coal, and silver.
and unmapped character. The road that traverses this
Besides, its myriad rivers, principally the Bío-Bío, have
region for more than a thousand kilometers, represents
been harnessed to generate electricity making
one of the greatest man-made attempts to exert some
hydroelectricity responsible for 70% of Chile's power.
control in such an impossible territory. The Carretera
Between the Andes and the Coast Ranges is the Vale of
Austral (southern road), starts in Puerto Montt, and after
Chile, a long valley divided into basins by Andean spurs.
a thousand-kilometer journey, ends in Villa O' Higgins, a
This is the heart of the republic, having the highest
step away from the Campo de Hielo Sur (Southern Ice
population density and the highest agricultural and
Cap).
industrial output.
Also, Lakes Llanquihue and Todos los Santos are some of
Spellbinding South - the many in the region which are surrounded by forests
Lakes, Volcanoes, forests, et al and beautiful cities. Immigrants during the 19th century,
Finally, the southern region of Chile which extends from
mostly from Germany, developed this area; one can still
the Bío-Bío River to Cape Horn is full of special natural
find a certain Germanic flavour in the southern cities, not
attractions with a facinating mix of dense forests, heavy
only in their architectural style, but also in their excellent
rainfall, snow-covered peaks, glaciers, and islands.
pastries like Strudel, Kuchen and many others delicacies,
Languid Lake Llanquihue Caburga Lake in the Lake District
Untouched Chiloe Island The busy port of Valdivia
which can be found not only here but all over Chile. Patagonia's Incredible Torres del Paine
From Campo de Hielo Sur (the southern ice-cap) to the
Because of subsidence of the earth's crust, the Coast
Chilean Antarctic Territory, this is one of the most
Ranges and the central lowlands have been partially
spectacular areas of the planet. Among all the
submerged, forming the extensive archipelago of South
attractions, the Torres del Paine peaks are, undoubtedly,
Chile, an area of craggy islands (notably Chiloé),
one of the most popular, and deservedly so, due to their
numerous channels, and deep fjords. The Chilean lake
incredible scenery and wealth of possible activities for the
district is a noted resort area for thousands of visitors
visitor, such as climbing, hiking and photography. This is a
every year.
land of lagoons, lakes, glaciers and snowcaps, as well as a
Although all of Southern Chile is forested, only the drier
northern part has exploitable timber resources; Puerto
Montt and Temuco are major timber-handling centers.
The rest of the region is a wilderness of mid-latitude rain
forest, which has been extensively logged. Because of the
climate, agriculture is limited but livestock raising (cattle
and pigs) is an important activity. A portion of extreme
Southern Chile lies in the rain shadow of the Andes and is
covered by natural grasslands. Here, extensive sheep
grazing is found, with wool, mutton, and skins, being the
chief products. Interestingly, this area also yields
petroleum. Valdivia, a port on the Pacific Ocean, is the
fourth largest industrial center of Chile. And the world's
southernmost city, Punta Arenas, is found here, on the
Strait of Magellan. The breathtaking Torres del Paine
FEATURE ARTICLES
places on earth and part of the Rapa Nui National Park of

Chile's oceanic territories. The natives call this land 'Te Pito
te Henua' which means 'the Navel of the World'.
In the Chilean-controlled Juan Fernández archipelago of
this region, Robinson Crusoe is the largest island. Named
so by the Chilean government after it was made world
famous by Daniel Defoe's eponymous classic novel, this
island along with two others are recognized World
Biosphere Reserves because of the endemic species of
flora and fauna. Red humming bird, spiny lobsters and
scuba diving are some of the few things which draw
people to this interesting island every year in hundreds
More views of Torres del Paine and thousands.
great variety of species endemic to Chile. Reaching up Chileans A Race of Sterling Character
from the massif stand the Torres y Cuernos (towers and Just like its “out-of-this-world” natural beauty, the people
horns) which give the park its name and pose challenges of Chile too are splendid. Friendly and hospitable,
for climbers from all over the world. Chileans are a resilient race having endured serious
earthquakes (among the world's strongest at 9.8 Richter
Enigmatic Easter Island
in the Lakes Region) and in times of need, it is all one big
and Robinson Crusoe Isle
Another must-see for visitors here is Easter Island, with its family. No wonder, their economy is strong, law
famous giant monoliths called Moai statues which stand trustworthy and education given high importance. This
several meters tall and provide an intriguing land has produced great poets, among them two Nobel
archeological mystery. This is one of the most isolated Prize winners, Gabriela Mistral (1945) and Pablo Neruda
(1971).
The majority of Chile's population is mestizo (a result of
frequent intermarriage between early Spanish settlers
and indigenous inhabitants), with Spanish being the
official language. Traditionally a Catholic nation, 70% of
its population belong to the Church and it is blessed with
two saints - Saint Teresa de los Andes and Saint Alberto
Hurtado. So how and when did Sai enter this multi-
faceted and charismatic land? This story too, just like
everything else about this country, is no less captivating.
The mysteries of Easter Island
Sai Reaches Out...
At a beautiful place near the capital Santiago called
“Cajon del Maipo” sit the slopes of the Cordillera de los
Andes, the famous mountain range that stretches for
thousands of kilometers with its beautiful massive white,
snow-covered mountains, valleys and rivers crawling like
serpents, and old trees witnessing the beauty and peace.
And this is the fitting setting where the Sai Movement in
Chile began.
Enrique Garrido was a young lad, and in spite of him
The paradise of Juan Fernandez Island
being just seventeen, spirituality fascinated him a lot. He
classroom, sat down and taught me the tones and

pronunciation, that is how I learned Chitta Chora
Yashoda Ke Bal…I went back to my family in the city of
Villa Alemana, about 110 kilometers from the Capital.
There I started weekly spiritual meetings, bhajans,
meditation and rigorous fasting once a week.”
Enrique maintained correspondence with Arlette Meyer,
a translator from Venezuela and it was she who
suggested contacting John Hislop who gave official
sanction for the first centre in Chile in 1980.
A similar mystical
m e a n s o f
Cajón del Maipo
communication
was in a cabin his family had in these sylvan surroundings. reached Bernardo who
One room was lent to a hermit, called Pablo, who had was a Rosicrucian
taken the vow of silence. This 'silent hermit', gave Enrique follower (an esoteric
a copy of “Prema Vahini” (Swami's treatise on divine order with its roots in
love), in his own handwritten Spanish translation. the western mystery
Enrique thought it had to be something very special, for tradition). Once, when
the hermit to leave his routine of meditation and spiritual meditating, a 'Guru of
practices and take the trouble of translating this book. He dark complexion'
says: appeared in his
“When I was reading this handwritten book I got the meditation. He was puzzled but the Guru appeared again
feeling, the sensation that God was speaking to me and motioned to follow Him. Who was He? Finally he
through this book, it was very real, God's presence was recognized the master on the cover of the book “Sai Baba
very real for me at that time. Communicating through a and the Psychiatrist”. Bernardo soon joined the newly
handwritten piece of paper, I wrote to Pablo about my founded Sai group in the city of Villa Alemana located in
experience and feelings on reading this book. He the province of Valparaiso.
answered me, also in writing, that he would speak to me
He Draws His Instruments…
next afternoon under an ancient almond tree, at 5 pm. Sai's divine masterplan had begun unfolding. Later in
At the appointed hour, under the big tree, the hermit Santiago, it was now the turn for Julio Vejar to become
broke his silence vow (at least for this day) and said: 'Sai Baba's instrument. Julio was a young Buddhist studying
Baba is God; He is the only one in this age capable of Philosophy at the prestigious University of Chile. On a
liberating anyone.'” regular basis he received spiritual literature from Canada,
This was 1978, certainly a special day for Chileans. Who but this time the parcel coming from abroad changed his
could imagine Sai Baba's divine plan would include this life!
far away land? This is as far as you can get from Prashanti He received a parcel containing books on Sai and some
Nilayam! But for Swami as He has often said, the whole Vibhuti and after reading these books his enthusiasm
world is His house and countries are only different rooms grew to a point where he was keen on knowing more
therein - so He was just going from one room to another! about Sai, and so he asked his friend in Canada to send
more information.
Beautiful Beginnings
Coming back to the story, from then on, Enrique started Another parcel came with more Sai books, and these only
dreaming repeatedly of Sai. “In dreams, Sai taught me increased his “Sai” thirst. This “Sai”-thirst was
Bhajans, how to sing correctly! He took me to a contagious, his fiancé Soledad (now his wife) and friends
FEATURE ARTICLES
Swami's teachings and message. Tomas Herrera was one

of them, who later began the first internet site on Sai
Baba in Chile (www.saibabachile.cl).
Herta Pfeifer, Sergio, Soledad and Julio
Ms. Herta Pfeifer also participated at this inauguration.

She had first heard about Sai in 1979 from Mr. Basil Pitt,
High Commissioner of Trinidad and Tobago in Canada,
whom she met in the city of La Paz, Bolivia. He gave her
the first book about Baba, “Man of Miracles” by Howard
Murphet, which she translated immediately. She then
started to translate Sai literature into Spanish and has
The Spanish version of My Baba and I
produced more than 100 books, innumerable speeches,
too longed for more information about Sai. “I felt Baba´s discourses, daily thoughts and much more. During her
presence everywhere, all the time”, says Soledad. first interview, Sai told her about His Will that she should
In 1983, Julio and Soledad, now husband and wife, “translate for Latin people” as He put it. She has done so
traveled to Buenos Aires, Argentina on their honeymoon. ever since.
They visited several areas of the city and on one occasion, Corali Balsera, a devotee residing in USA brought books,
while on a local bus, Julio suddenly decided to get out. music and gifts for the newly created centre. She also was
When they stepped down on the sidewalk, he saw a small the instrument in bringing the news of another Sai centre
poster about a Sai centre! As soon as they got back to the in Chile, only 110 kilometers away. The two centres visited
hotel, he called the number published on that notice and each other and exchanged books and news, this was the
was told that the next day a meeting was going to be held 'pre-internet era'. But divine love followed in different
there. ways attracting more people every day.
The following day they arrived at the Sai centre and met It so happened that one gentleman by name Sergio,
Mr. Leonardo Gutter, who has been helping to spread the participated in a radio programme speaking about Sai
message of Bhagavan in Latin America. He gave them the Baba and the healing powers of Vibhuti. Next Thursday,
movie “The Aura of Divinity” and suggested they should after the ceremony ended, a gentleman told him that in a
form a Centre in Santiago. Neither Leonardo nor Julio few days he was going to undergo surgery due to a severe
then knew about the Sai centre in Villa Alemana in Chile. case of stomach ulcers. The gentleman also said he had
They returned to Santiago and a few months later on 21 listened to the radio programme and decided to give the
August 1983 the Sai centre of Santiago officially opened Vibhuti a try. Sergio told him that Vibhuti was miraculous,
its first meeting. This centre functioned in the house of but that at the end everything depended on Baba and
Hanni Horowitz and a few devotees assisted at this event, one's faith. He instructed the gentleman, 'You can drink it
who would further on play significant roles in furthering with water every morning'.
Next Thursday this same gentleman came, and Sergio both in the vicinity of the Valparaiso, the country's
saw that he was a changed man all his worried frowns cultural capital. There are Sai groups also in cities like
had gone and he looked relaxed and happy. He told Iquique in Northern Chile, Puerto Varas in the South,
Sergio that on the last medical examination before the Talagante in Central Chile and in La Serena, the second
scheduled surgery the doctors had seen that his ulcers oldest city located 470 kms north of Santiago.
were gone! The doctors could not believe it, but admitted The Sai centre of Condell in the province of Santiago hosts
that there was no reason to operate anymore! It was an a free lunch on Saturdays which is one of their happiest
incredible healing from God and they felt so fortunate activities: many come to enjoy the meal and good
and blessed. company, peace and love. Some of the attended upon are
Panamanian Present paper and cardboard collectors and now one can see their
With more people coming in, the Sai Centre of Santiago smiles and also Swami's picture or an Om symbol
moved from smaller to bigger locations and at one point adorning their tricycles.
of time, the devotees were renting a house in a street This centre was located in a big house where many Sai
called Seminario. The owner of this building decided to brothers and sisters came together in satsangs, study
sell the house, but the devotees were in no position to circles and to receive many experienced visitors who
buy, even if they wanted to do. shared about Swami's love and His mission. But they have
had their lot of challenges too. Unfortunately, they do not
have the big house anymore but their perseverance and
faith has only grown. They know Sai always has a plan
and they love Him more each day because He never ceases
to amaze them. Take the case of Lucy.
Light for Lucy

Lucy had many problems in her life; smoked heavily,
drank alcohol and ate meat. She was about to cross a
street when she saw a fortune-teller. She approached her
and started asking about her trade. “Does this come from
Meeting of the Sai centre of Quilpue India?” asked Lucy. The person started explaining that
fortune-telling had nothing to do with India... and from
By His mysterious will, this time it was a Panamanian
there somehow the conversation turned to Baba. This
devotee who came to their rescue. Full of love and
happened on a Thursday and it ended with Lucy being
gratefulness to God, as his son in Panama was liberated
invited to a Sai meeting. “As soon as I stepped into the
after being kidnapped just then, this noble gentleman
Centre everything seemed to have a kind of brilliance, I
traveled to Chile, attended Sai bhajans and later donated
was amazed. From that moment on, smoking was not
the entire money required to buy the house. This is how
attractive anymore; the same happened with drinking
the Sai Centre of Seminario was born.
and meat eating! I wanted to quit every bad habit! Baba
This house of Sai has witnessed many Akhanda Bhajans; made it happen in just a few minutes. My love, my life, is
EHV activities; and holds free lunches every Sunday where not mine anymore - it is His. It is like having a new life
more than 50 people receive food in a harmonious again, thank you Swami!” says Lucy today.
ambience. Many senior and elderly devotees like Dr. Sara
One can only stand stupefied in wonder reading about
Pavan, Dr. Voleti, John Behner and Leonardo Gutter have
such instantaneous transformations! And beautiful
visited this centre and shared Swami's love on several
instances like this were happening everywhere in Chile.
occasions.
He Introduces Himself to Many More…
Apart from this, there are two more centres in the capital
In Viña del Mar, the beautiful coastal city, we mentioned
city of Santiago and also in Viña del Mar and Quilpue,
that there is a Sai centre. But there is something more
FEATURE ARTICLES
japamala, and almost at the end of the 108th round, a

bead materialized out of thin air and fell onto the floor.
Now there were 109 beads…the ways the omnipresent
Swami makes His presence felt are unfathomable.
All these experiences of Sai which increased as the days
passed by not only brought more people to the centres
but it also resulted in the Centres expanding their
activities and trying to make a positive difference in the
local community. One such thing that took shape was
EHV the all important Education in Human Values
programme. And how Swami brought instruments for
this work too is fascinating.
The lovely Vina del Mar
Manuel, a very enthusiastic devotee, never missed an
unique going on here. Right in the middle of a small pine opportunity to speak about Baba, be it in a bus or
forest there is a small cabin, from which on every anywhere. Once, Marisol, a lady living in La Serena, was
Thursday one can hear bhajans accompanied by an riding in a bus when Manuel, who happened to be sitting
Andean instrument (“palo de agua” - a hollow piece of next to her, started talking about Baba. Marisol says,
cactus with small stones inside and nails on the inner “Normally I don't talk to strangers, but this time
walls and closed ends. Whenever the cactus “stick” is something made me listen to this gentleman. What he
turned, it makes a sound like a river slowly carrying said was very interesting, he was very well prepared; he
thousand of pebbles.) Most of the devotees are opened a small business briefcase and started pulling
teenagers; they sing bhajans with lots of energy and zest. photocopies and pictures of Baba. He invited me to a
On Mondays they lovingly serve meals to needy people at Thursday meeting. As soon I got home, I went through all
the nearby port of Valparaiso, and this is something the reading material and then saw the picture he had
which has been going on for several years now. given me. I noticed it was covered with dust. I cleaned it
In another Sai Centre, in the city of Quilpue, (called by and after a while the same 'dust' covered the picture of
locals “Sunny City” because it has more sunny days than Baba again. It puzzled me. Only in the Thursday meeting, I
Valparaiso, its nearest big city) on a Saturday morning learned that this strange 'dust' was Vibhuti and Baba's
while a group of devotees were chanting a series of 108 calling card.” This was enough to instill faith in Marisol
Gayatri mantras, suddenly something unexplainable and soon she became involved with Sai activities and later
happened. One of them was keeping count on a on did a lot of work on EHV.
EHV - Heralding a Glorious Chile

350 kilometers north of Santiago lies the city of La Serena
and on the outskirts of the city one can hear tender and
soft voices intoning omkars. This is no hermitage of
spiritual aspirants, it is the Sai School of La Serena. On
March 2003 Antonio Bustamante and Diana Wagner,
with lots of effort and perseverance opened the first Sai
school in Chile. Many devotees, including Mr. J.
Jagadeesan from Malaysia, attended the inauguration
ceremony. It started with only one grade and 9 students.
Each year another grade was added. Also the Sai Institute
started in this same year, which trained many teachers
and held many EHV courses and workshops. God's work is
presence is so great. On one occasion a group of devotees

felt so anxious to be at the first Athi Rudra Maha Yagna
that was being held in Prasanthi Nilayam, that they
prayed, got together everyday and eagerly downloaded
every bit of information related to the Yagna.
On the first day of
the Yagna they got
up before 5 am so
they would be
ready to chant and
pray when the
ceremony started in
La Serena school children
P r a s h a n t i ,
beautiful and fulfilling but never easy. The school has had considering the
many ups and downs, and is temporarily closed but the time difference.
devotees' perseverance and love for Sai remain Omnipotent
undiminished. Swami, at 5 am
sharp, sent three
huge lightning
Swami's saying in Spanish flashes and
thunderbolts and then an incredible rain shower that
lasted only for 20 minutes. Then the sky cleared and a
bright moon shone as if nothing had happened.
Lightning and heavy downpours are quite unusual events
in that area. Everybody there felt Swami’s presence as if
to say: “I am with you, and you are with Me in this Yagna.”
These sorts of mind-boggling experiences and many
others are deeply embedded in the devotees’ hearts: love
for SAI is ever present, it might be the Lord’s way of
All the children at the school
saying, ‘I am in you, always, for ever and ever, wherever
They Feel Him All the Time you are, in Chile , Prashanti or anywhere.’
This land, as somebody said, is as far as one can be from
Prashanti Nilayam, from the physical presence of the
Avathar, but for God distance is no barrier. Only a – Heart2Heart Team
microscopic minority from Chile would have seen the
Lord in person, yet their faith is exemplary. It is really
Dear Reader, did you find this article helpful? Would you
amazing how the Lord touches everybody’s hearts and
like us to continue this series? Please tell us at
cleanses them so that He can reflect more clearly in their
h2h@radiosai.org mentioning your name and country.
personalities. On a visit, Dr Sara Pavan told them: “This
Thank you for your time.
sacred Sai organization is like a washing machine,
everybody has to go through a cleaning process” - that is
surely so. For, without the hammer and heat, the gold
cannot shine.
Sometimes, their urge to be in the Lord’s physical
FEATURE ARTICLES
IS THE WORLD A STAGE?

By Dr. Sara Pavan
“Brahma Sathyam Jagam Mithyam”
(God is Truth World is unreal) Adi Shankara
“Man returns to earth again and again until he has

perfected his acting.” - Yogananda
“All the world's a stage, and all men and women are
merely players” - Shakespeare
“The soul is never born and never dies; it was not born
and will not be born; without birth, without end,
eternal, ancient; it is not killed when the body in which
it lives is killed. Just as one casts off old clothes, so the
soul casts off bodies in order to take on new ones.” -
Lord Krishna, Bhagavad Gita
“As the apparel is to the body, the body is to the soul, a

mere superficial, illusory covering. I have no affiliations
based on this transitory body and am bound only by
the permanent relationship arising out of pure Love.”
From The Womb…To The Tomb…
- Baba
'Life' Is One Big School…
“Life is a dream; Realise it.” - Baba All of the above revelations from great personages and
“Man has no free-will whatsoever” - Baba Avatars imply that life on earth is nothing but an
“Nature is your Preacher; your life is your Teacher.” evolutionary process towards a higher consciousness,
one incarnation after another. So, our earthly sojourn is
- Baba
like a school of learning. We are exposed to a wide
“Each of you has struggled upwards from stone to
spectrum of experiences from all the outer and apparent
plant, from plant to animal, from animal to man! You
imperfections and inconsistencies that are transient and
have earned the human body by accumulated merit of
unreal, but beheld from a human perspective as real.
many lives. Do not expect to find happiness in the
Indeed, earthly life is a school of wisdom, where souls
'other world;' that world too is impermanent! Once you
learn from direct and personal experiences and evolve
have exhausted your merit there, you will have to
from lesser truth to greater truth, and finally to fullness or
return to earthly life once again.” - Baba
enlightenment. No event ever happens on earth without
“I separated Myself from Myself so that I can become a reason, and each soul learns its unique lessons while
Myself” embodied in the human form. Bhagavan Baba had
“The inescapable destiny of every living being is the reminded the writer on several occasions during personal
attainment of Fullness.” - Baba interviews: “There is nothing bad whatsoever in My

entire creation.” Hence, even what we refer to as bad is
also a good experience, at least from an evolutionary
standpoint.
'Self-realisation is the awakening of the spirit to its which are the non-
highest potential (fullness, perfection), wherein one material and invisible
is in constant awareness of the perfection within, in aspects of our being,
the midst of outer imperfections and chaos.' This was beyond the senses. The
an inspirational thought that had kept haunting the subtle body consists of
writer a few years ago. During a personal interview this the mind, intellect,
statement was written on a piece of paper and handed to memory and ego (manas,
Bhagavan Baba to ascertain if He was the source of these buddhi, chitta and
forceful words. Bhagavan graciously took the piece of ahamkara) correspondingly in association with the next
paper, read it and returned it to the writer without any three sheaths (pranamaya, manomaya and vijnayamaya
comment! “Mounam Angeekara Soochakam,” is an koshas). The mind is the cause of all aberrations, and the
ancient wisdom in Sanskrit, which means: “Silence is subject of 'what others think we are.' Beyond the subtle
indication of acceptance.” Otherwise, Swami would have body is the causal body forming the bliss sheath
refuted the same. Also, by not making any comment (anandamaya-kosha), 'what we really are.' The body is
Bhagavan may have dampened the writer's ego. merely a temporary dwelling for the resident within, the
Vedas, the Word of God, perceived by ancient sages, as Atma, the Immortal and Eternal Self.
well as the sacred scriptures God had given through the What Holds Man's Evolution?
various Messiahs of the past, reveal the truth as to what The soul (Jivatma) is a minute fragment of the over-soul,
earthly life is about. Truth is multidimensional, eternal the totality of the all pervading Consciousness
and universal and cannot change from any perspective. A (Paramatma). Manifesting itself through a physical form,
surgeon cannot be a surgeon if he is not thorough with the soul continues to evolve through eons of earthly time
his knowledge of the human anatomy. Operating on a on the worldly stage as a separate entity until it finally
patient without a sound knowledge of anatomy is awakens to its own Reality, God or Total Consciousness.
tantamount to butchery! Likewise, we have to dissect the The soul, in association with the physical body on its
truth about ourselves under a 'spiritual microscope' to earthly sojourn, had identified itself with the body, giving
know who we are and what we are made of. an illusory feeling of separateness, and yet, in reality, has
Are We Just the Body? never ever been separate from the One Totality. In fact,
A human being is not just the body, the manifested the soul or the Atma is beyond the bounds of time and
physical aspect, but much larger than what meets the space, which exists only in the realm of the created. At the
senses. The body is merely an instrument to perform time of death, when the soul is released from the physical
action. It is a vehicle for the 'person within,' the 'Persona,' body, it accepts the inevitable reality that its association
to manifest and express. Every person deep within is God, with its temporal body is impermanent. It overcomes the
but this Divinity is shrouded in the personality, the body desire to return to the body it had occupied, after an
consciousness, with a feeling of separateness as an initial period of 'confusion' and 'mental exhaustion'. Freed
individual human being. Our physical or gross body is from its incarceration in the physical body the soul sees
only made of earthly material, consisting of the five the larger picture of the Cosmic Drama with its expanded
elements space, air, fire, water and earth - from the food awareness. After some 'rest' and adapting to its 'new
consumed and therefore referred to as the 'food-sheath' surroundings' the soul begins a totally different life in the
(annamaya-kosha). The physical body is like a costume, astral plane. The writer knows of such experiences a few
tailor-made for us, which is 'what we think we are.' of his close friends have had after their death, through
responsible mediums.
At a deeper level we will see the subtle and causal bodies,
FEATURE ARTICLES
The causal body draws all its past impressions from the kingdoms, the planets, the stars, the galaxies, the black
subtle body and carries them forward into several future holes, the particles, the waves, matter, antimatter and
lives on earth until all such impressions of separateness or what not are all miracles. There is no effect without a
ego of the soul dissolve in the vastness of the oneness. cause. So, we cannot but postulate the existence of an
Because it carries the causes (impressions) of the past it is Omniscient and Omnipotent creator or Divine
also termed the causal body, where the individual soul, Intelligence beyond our limited understanding.
now in the matrix of total consciousness, is preparing The cause is the effect concealed and the effect is the
itself for another sojourn on earth. We can compare this cause revealed and the time between the two can be
to a driver who, not only identifies himself with his car, extremes. According to Newton's third law: Every action
but even carries with him all his bad driving habits with has an equal and opposite reaction. When the reaction of
him onto his new car, long after vacating the old car! an action is immediate and we are able to see it or
Unless an actor remembers that he is just an actor on measure it at the sensory level we call it scientific.
stage and has to act his role perfectly, he will get caught However, if the reaction time is immense, perhaps after
up with his momentary role and the costume he dons several lifetimes, when one has no recollection of the
while on stage. Past memories and attachments hinder cause, the effect may appear to stand alone! Just because
man's evolution and hold him back in his ascent to the cause is not visible at the mundane plane one cannot
Godhood. deny this principle of causation. The cause is like a
'Cause and Effect' - seedling waiting for the opportune moment to sprout.
The Supreme Clause of Creation This 'seedling' is deep in the sub-conscious mind. Mind
Adi Shankara states so eloquently in one of his stanzas in and matter are interconnected as well as interdependent.
Bhaja Govindam about the recurring cycles of birth and For those familiar with computer jargon, it is not
death (Punarapi Jananam, Punarapi Maranam). There is unrealistic to compare the conscious mind to RAM
no effect without a cause and there is no cause that goes (Random Access Memory) and the subconscious mind to
without creating an effect. the HDD (Hard Disk Drive). All manifestations are
projections of the mind and sustained by it.
All Action is God and all Reaction is Man!

We study the life-cycles of various parasites in biological
sciences. Most parasites have more than two hosts in
their life-cycle. For example the malarial parasite has two
hosts the mosquito and the human. When it infests the
human host it causes the disease called malaria. To
prevent the spread of the disease in the human we have
to break the life-cycle of the parasite by killing the other
host, the mosquito. By eradicating mosquitoes we will
have succeeded in stopping the spread of malaria. In
Now, let us consider the nature of the world. From what biochemistry too we could end the cyclic chemical events
we see around us, from information gathered from by enzyme antagonists. Similarly, the prospect of
other's experiences, by inference from scientific interrupting the recurring cycles of birth and death will
investigation and theories, we know that the Universe is a rest on eliminating the deficits in the 'balance-sheet,' that
vast, complex entity; the human body itself is a are 'carried-forward' from one life into another. The
miraculous mechanism; the vegetable and animal solution is in surrendering whatever outcome to the
Supreme Will, having played our 'pre-ordained' role well; and weaknesses, to include new lessons to learn and to
that is to act our respective roles whole-heartedly and revise some past lessons as the case may be. Hence,
without resistance just action without reaction. With events to follow in the ensuing incarnations on earth are
proper understanding and acceptance we develop 'worked-out,' as if a new 'syllabus' (destiny) is 'written' in
equanimity over whatever happens in our life. With this the astral dimension, for souls to experience in each
realisation we would experience 'Non-Duality' and will earthly life for their onward journey towards fullness.
incur no future karma (Agami-karma). It is said, “Advaita
The Drama That is Life
darshanam jnanam,” meaning 'Experiencing Oneness
The life of an individual on earth now and where he had
with the Totality is Wisdom.' All action is God and all
been prior to this birth can be prudently illustrated by
reaction is man. In other words, as we surrender more
using a drama theatre as a model. The stage, the back-
and more, we begin to react less and less, and finally live
stage and actors represent the world, the astral plane and
in perfect equanimity.
the souls respectively and the actors are preparing in the
The Soul's Preparation for a New Advent… back-stage to enter the stage.
Now, let us attempt to study the movement of the soul, These days we are able
the 'life-cycle' of man, from one birth to another, both in to follow the movement
the worldly material plane as well as in the subtle astral of many species of
plane beyond. The writer requests readers to permit some animal life on earth, like
degree of indulgence in constructive and explicable 'tagging' whales and
imagination. Let us imagine there are two 'hosts' in the tracking their
recurring human cycle - the worldly and the astral planes. movements in the
We shall enquire into where we came from, what we are oceans using satellites.
doing here now and where we do proceed hereon? We Just imagine the roof of
need to imagine some point in the cycle the soul goes the drama theatre has been removed and one could see
through to start with and trace the path until a circle is from above the full view of the stage as well as the back-
completed. Since all births have a cause, and so are all our stage at the same time, even the several partitions 'back-
experiences, we shall attempt to trace the cycle starting stage' while those on the floor cannot see beyond the
from the point of entry in the astral plane after death. limitation of barriers. They would only see everything
Before plunging back to earthly life and entering a new within the confines of the partition and not beyond. Seen
body in another mother's womb each individual soul has from above we are able to see in one sweep the entire
to go through the various stages of preparation in the drama theatre, the 'back-stage' where the actors at
astral world. Freed from the limitation of the gross body various stages of preparation prior to their entry onto the
and gaining full awareness of its own reality, the soul is front-stage. In reality, none of these partitions are
able to take stock of the 'cargo' of karma it carries - gains separate arenas, but they are multiple dimensions of
and losses, the missed opportunities and failed lessons of one's own subconscious mind. As long as the mind clings
past incarnations. With the help of astral guides, the soul on to the ephemeral and fleeting worldly things, the soul
is able to determine impartially the course it should take of the individual is trapped in the earthly realm, and keeps
in the next birth, even several future births, to get rid of returning to earthly life over and over again. In other
the 'cargo.' Earthly life is akin to a school where each words all unfinished business in the earthly life can only
individual learns to evolve. The earthly role of each be cleared in a subsequent incarnation on earth. So, let us
individual is thus predetermined as per the soul's needs, begin the cycle from the moment a soul enters the astral
and in accordance with its past life experiences, strengths plane, after shedding the physical body. It is analogous to
FEATURE ARTICLES
an actor returning to the back-stage at the end of his these lessons until fullness of enlightenment or true
stage performance. On entering the astral plane the freedom is attained. Armed with the 'script' for their
departed soul is received by other souls. After a brief next incarnation, the souls move on to the 'practicing and
period of rest, the soul is refreshed to the change from 'rehearsing' zone and begin to memorise and accept the
the dense vibrations of the earth to the subtle and fine assignment for the next life, fully aware that it is for their
vibrations of the astral and moves from the 'receiving highest good. As the time nears for the souls to
area' to the adjoining 'sorting area.' reincarnate they move to the penultimate stage of
This is a very critical phase when decisions have to be finding a suitable body, which is merely a costume.
made as to what kind of earthly life should each one of The Body - A Suitable Vehicle
the returning souls lead in its next birth. There is a 'log- Where do these souls pick their 'costumes' from? They
book' for each soul that has a complete record of all the have already chosen their mothers while in the astral
past earthly experiences and lessons, which is plane. The soul enters a developing foetus at around the
comparable to a warehouse of accumulated karma, 20th week of pregnancy. We may compare the womb to a
which we call sanchita karma. It is a reservoir of stored closet. Just as the actor picks his costume from the closet,
experiences and tendencies, karmas and vasanas, good the soul would find its matching apparel in the
as well as bad within the relative plane of earthly developing foetus in a mother's womb, and several weeks
experience, deep down the subconscious. With the help later make its final entry onto the stage of the world as a
and guidance available in abundance there, the soul new born baby. The body of the foetus is entirely made of
would gather onto itself the best possible combination of earthly material from the food consumed by the mother,
unresolved karmas from this storehouse and package it, right from the single fertilised egg cell to a fully grown
prarabdha karma. This will provide the soul with newborn. The infant passes through many stages until
opportunities to dispose of some karmic deficits in the old age, continuing its physical growth from the earthly
next incarnation. Helped by astral guides, the souls make
wise choices for the ensuing earthly life, be it new lessons
or revisions, another opportunity given to free itself from
ignorance and bondage.
Just as a director of a theatre production would assign

different roles to different actors, appropriate to their
experience and attributes, souls too get channelled in the
'back-stage' of their astral interlude to take up befitting
roles for their next earthly sojourn, as if tailor-made for
their own spiritual needs. For example, if a man is
extremely cruel to his wife in this life, he could possibly be
born as a woman in the next life to suffer in the hands of a
cruel man! Such 'eye for an eye' and 'tooth for a tooth'
kind of reaction need not happen to every soul, as there
are many other ways and opportunities given to
neutralise past karmas. Christ too has said, “As you sow,
so shall you reap.” Souls undergo streaming according to
their needs at the 'curriculum zone,' getting another
chance to get things right. Therefore, no soul is damned,
but opportunities are given repeatedly for mastering
food consumed. That is why the body is referred to as the all its waywardness. To free oneself from recurring cycles
'food-sheath.' of birth and death man must have a perfect
We may also compare the human body to a motor car or understanding of non-duality and experience his life as
vehicle for the earthly journey and the individual soul, its being completely in God's Hands. This is true surrender.
driver. So long as the car is in the production line or in the There is no other, but He alone in the entire Universe, in
dealer's yard it carries no registration number plate. It has many names, forms and situations!
to bear the registration plate the moment it is driven The play is His; the role is His gift;
away from the show-room. The foetus too bears no name
The lines are written by Him; He directs;
and has to be registered at birth, with a name, which is its
He decides the dress and décor;
'number-plate,' to function in the world! One thing comes
absolutely clear out of this illustration - just as the driver is the gesture and the tone;
not the car, man must realise he is not his body. As the The entrance and the exit.
driver discards the old car and drives a new car until the
Is There Such a Thing as 'Free Will'?
journey is completed, the soul too keeps discarding old
Does this mean man has no free will or choices to make in
tattered bodies to take new ones in its journey to freedom
his life on earth? A pre-destined life is comparable to a
and enlightenment.
dog's leash and the dog is free to move within its limits.
He Alone Is! Man too has chosen his own limitations prior to birth,
The foetus chosen by the and we call it his Prapthi (Prarabdha karma), which is
soul has its own DNA already determined in the astral plane. It is the writer's
coding, which will firm belief that man has some choice as to how he could
determine the play his role on earth, and with what kind of attitude; but
uniqueness of the he has neither a choice over his role he plays nor over the
physical aspects of the events that surround him. He is born with his script, and
body for the rest of the this cannot be altered on the stage of the earth, except
life. The subtle body, when the Avatar intervenes. With what attitude one plays
consisting of the mind, his role is influenced by his tendencies (vasanas) from
intellect, memory and past lives as well as the conditioning since birth. If human
ego, also has its own life will unfold according to a pre-destined path, one may
uniqueness and cleverly argue why on earth should anyone bother to
inimitable nature. This kind of perfect 'match-making' work or strive for anything?
between the subtle and the gross body, or the actor and
his costume, could only be possible by God, the All-
knowing and All-pervading Supreme Consciousness that
is producing this grand drama of life on the stage of the
earth. Everything in life is pre-ordained gender, role to be
played, achievements and failures, gains and losses,
health and sickness, and a whole heap of opposites in
worldly expressions and activities. We have to act our
roles perfectly and remember that we are on the earthly
stage doing His Will alone. Complete surrender is
impossible as long as man is influenced by his mind, with
FEATURE ARTICLES
Lord Krishna Himself gives the answer to this question. His grace. Our Lord, Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, has
Arjuna, the great warrior, was in a quandary and his ego among His 108 names, 'Om Sri Sai Karma Dwamsine
got the better of him. Arjuna wanted to walk away from Namaha', meaning the Sai who has come wipe out all our
the battlefield, as if he was the one to decide whether he karma and free us from the karmic web that brings us
was to fight or not. He turned to the Lord in such a again and again to the worldly stage. Let us remember
confused state, but Bhagavan Krishna emphatically told Bhagavan Baba's first ever bhajan “Manasa Bhajare Guru
Arjuna, “In spite of you, you will do what you are Charanam, Dustara Bhava Sagara Taranam.” (O man!
destined to do. You are a warrior and your role is to Without worshipping the Lotus Feet of the Guru [Lord
fight injustice.” Here Sai] it is not possible to
Lord Krishna hinted cross the ocean of life
that the outcome of the and death.)
war and Arjuna's role in “I separated Myself
it were already pre- from Myself so that I
determined, long can become Myself,”
before the event was to says Bhagavan. Only by
occur. Arjuna's choice one's awareness,
was limited to his attitude and deeds,
understanding as to that is, seeing God in
how he would fight and everything, everywhere
with what kind of and all the time, can
attitude he would face one experience this
the situation. It also oneness to the full and
implied that Arjuna had no free-will to decide upon his feel: “Having realised who I am Lord, I have become
role in the war, whether to fight or walk away, neither its Yourself again, 'I am I,' just as the waves merge back with
outcome. Arjuna had the choice of destroying the the ocean.
enemies with hatred, anger and doership, which would
The writer offers his heartfelt gratitude to Bhagavan Baba
have added to his karmic load, or, become an instrument
for His inspiration and boundless Grace for the intuitive
of the Lord and surrender to His Supreme Will, thereby
understanding of the drama of life, with love, humility
absolving himself from incurring any karma to be carried
and dedication. Jai Sai Ram
forward, but fight he must. Both ways, the outcome
“If our present is but the result of our past, the habits
would have remained unchanged. Christians pray to the
formed are over a long period. But, whatever be the
Heavenly Father: "Thy kingdom come; Thy Will be done
nature of the character one has come by, it can
on Earth, as it is in heaven.” It means, our life has
certainly be modified by modifying the accustomed
already been 'landscaped' in the astral life before taking
processes of thought and imagination. No one is
birth and events in our life are inevitable. It is like a movie
incorrigible. By conscious effort, habits can be
film already containing what is being projected. So,
changed and the character refined. By selfless service,
where is the question of Free-Will?
by renunciation, by devotion, by prayer and by
The Golden Path - Unconditional Surrender methodical reasoning and logic, old habits can be
By God's grace alone man can overcome attachment, discarded and new one's acquired for taking us along
bondage and ignorance. First man has to surrender to the the divine path.” - Baba. (Sai Inspires - 26th August
Supreme Will, with peace in his mind and love in his heart 2005, H2H)
and make every effort himself to be a worthy recipient of
SERIAL ARTICLES
SHIRDI SAI PARTHI SAI -

Part 30
(Continued from previous issue)
ACT VIII - SCENE 1

A group of boys are playing on the bank of the river. They are jumping around and catching frogs.
CHORUS: Look, there's a frog! See, a small frog here! Jump like frogs!! I got one! I got two frogs!!
BOY 1: Hey, don't touch them; it is not good.
BOY 2: We'll take all these home.
BOY 3: How shall we take them?
BOY 4: Here's a basket; put them all in.
Sathya comes along and watches the boys causing pain to the frogs.
SATHYA: Stop, stop! Poor things, let them be free and play happily; don't imprison them in the basket.
BOY: If they are happy playing, so are we.
SATHYA: If play is what you want, let us all play together. Does anyone play with frogs? See how they are suffering. Let
them go. You must not kill living beings.
ANOTHER BOY: We are not killing them but just taking them home.
THIRD BOY: We will play with them.
SERIAL ARTICLES
SATHYA: Causing pain to dumb animals is a great sin.
BOY: It is not a sin. Frogs can survive anywhere. They will be
safer in the basket than in water.
SATHYA: Will you be safe if you are thrown into water? Every
species must be in its own habitat. This is the secret of
Creation.
BOY: I too will tell you a secret. There are snakes in the water.
And do you know what snakes do when they see a frog? They
grab them and swallow them!
ANOTHER BOY: But will not the frog then die?
FIRST BOY: It will. And it is to protect the frogs that we are
putting them all in the basket and taking them home.
SATHYA: God alone knows whom to protect, whom to save,
and whom to punish. We don't.
BOY: That's why we are saving them.
SATHYA: You think you are very clever? Release the frogs, or
else….
BOY: I will not release them.
SATHYA: Release, or else….
BOY: I will not!
Sathya waves His hand. The frogs all turn into pigeons and fly
away. The boys are astounded.
BOYS: Hey! The frogs have changed into pigeons!!
ONE BOY: Raju, we don't understand your words but we
understand your heart. You are not an ordinary person like us.
We made a terrible mistake. Please forgive us!
SATHYA: It is good that you have realised your mistake. No
one must ever again do this kind of thing.
BOYS: Yes Raju.
SATHYA: Come, let us go.
In this manner, Sathya exhibited noble qualities from a very young age and taught virtues to people. He transformed
them in many ways. He always corrected those who inflicted pain or spoke harshly.
SHIRDI SAI PARTHI SAI - Part 30
SCENE 2
During the period Sathya was studying in the Bukkapatnam School, His elder brother Seshama Raju got married to one
Suseelamma, the daughter of Pasupathi Subbaraju of Kamalapuram. Seshama Raju then went to Kamalpuram. There he
stayed with his in-laws. Sathya was sent along with Seshama, so that He could pursue higher studies there under the
direct supervision of His elder brother.
Before all this happens, while Seshama is still in Puttaparthi, one day, Seshama is walking along a street in Puttaparthi. At
that time, two people seated under a tree are talking to each other.
MAN UNDER TREE: Look, Seshama Raju is coming. I'll talk to
him.
THE OTHER MAN: [to Seshama] Look, sir, is it proper for you to
do this?
SESHAMA RAJU: What are you talking about?
FIRST MAN: Great! You talk as though you know nothing! The
whole village is talking about your younger brother Raju, and
you act as if you don't know anything. I understand!
SECOND MAN: It appears that Raju does magic and chants strange hymns. He is apparently claiming to have great
powers.
FIRST MAN: If this sort of thing continues, we will not keep quiet. We have put up with it so far on account of the
prestige of your grandfather and father. Din some sense into your younger brother and ask him to act according to his
age.
SECOND MAN: It seems that he is preaching that cock
fighting and other such games are harmful to animals. He is
even composing and singing provocative songs to
campaign against such sports. Haven't we been having
these sports for ages?
SESHAMA RAJU: Yes sir, I will advise my brother suitably.
Please understand that I am not supporting my brother
Sathyam, but in childhood, does not one do many things in
sheer innocence? You should therefore not be too much disturbed by these things.
FIRST MAN: Matters have gone too far, Seshama Raju. We don't hate or dislike your brother. Rather, it is out of concern
for him that we are reporting to you; he is a son of the Raju family, is he not? Well, it is all up to you now.
SESHAMA RAJU: Don't worry sir, I shall do the needful.
SECOND MAN: You had better do something before matters get out of hand!
FIRST MAN: Well said sir!
SERIAL ARTICLES
SCENE 3
House of Venkama Raju. Members of the family have gathered and are discussing the complaints against Sathya, being
made by various people in the village. Kondama Raju also is present.
VENKAMA RAJU: Sathyam's behaviour is causing increasing
anxiety day by day. He does not speak like young boys ought to,
and His behaviour is not what is expected of Him.
EASWARAMMA: Sathyam is young and He does not know the
difference between good and bad. But then please,
sometimes, there is profound meaning in the words of
children. And we may not always understand them, isn't that
so?
VENKAMA RAJU: What you say is certainly true, Easwari but as I said earlier, His behaviour is not in conformity with what
is expected. He seems to think that there is some Power in Him, but will others accept that? Many are even ridiculing Him.
SESHAMA RAJU: Yes mother. The other day He made all the
pupils in the Puttaparthi School go on strike. Is this what
children of His age do? And when the Telugu master in the
Bukkapatnam School asked why He had not written the notes,
He gave a peculiar answer. The Teacher let Him off lightly but
Sathyam got the Teacher stuck to the chair. When asked why
He had done so, He replied that He had done it for fun, and not
as an insult to the Teacher. Now, He has created another
problem. For generations the people in the village have been having cock fighting and horse racing; but He has attacked
these traditional sports and incited people to sing songs against these past-times. The elders of the village are agitated
and are asking if this is the sort of thing a young kid ought to do.
KONDAMA RAJU: Sathyam, it seems there are many complaints against You!
SATHYA: Grandfather! I did not do anything wrong. Medicine
may be bitter but when taken it does good, does it not? Good
advice is like medicine; why don't people understand that?
KONDAMA RAJU: Well said my dear grandson! That's the way
to teach lessons to people!!
SESHAMA RAJU: [to Kondama] You alone are impressed by
the words of your grandson; others are not. No one
understands what He says and even if they do, they will not
accept. In this Kali Age, how many people will listen to good advice? And, is He of the right age to talk about such matters
as good and bad, Morality and Justice, Dharma and Divinity?
SHIRDI SAI PARTHI SAI - Part 30
KONDAMA RAJU: [to Sathya] Answer him!
SATHYA: Good and bad, Morality and Justice, Dharma and Divinity, have nothing to do with age!
SESHAMA RAJU: Mother! Do you see how He answers back with scant respect for my seniority in age?
EASWARAMMA: [to Seshama] He is not arguing with you but, out of affection for you, telling you what you should
know! Look Seshama, why don't you think of a solution that would prevent Sathyam, from coming to harm?
VENKAMA RAJU: There is only one way let us send Sathyam to Kamalapuram.
SESHAMA RAJU: Yes father, I too wanted to make the same suggestion.
EASWARAMMA: Kamalapuram?
VENKAMA RAJU: Yes, Kamalapuram has a High School suitable for higher studies, once one completes studies in the
Bukkapatnam School. Seshama is already there, undergoing Teacher's training, and staying with his in-laws. Sathyam
can stay along with Seshama and study there.
KONDAMA RAJU: Well Sathyam, will you go to
Kamalapuram?
SATHYA: Grandpa, who are we to decide what should be done
and what should not be? God alone decides! As for Me, all
places are the same to Me.
VENKAMA RAJU: That looks like a good solution. You will get
good education there, that will prepare You well for a
Government job. What do you say, Easwari?
EASWARAMMA: There are still three months more for Vijayadasami [the admission time]. We'll think about it when the
time comes. But then, father-in-law has to agree, has he not?
KONDAMA.RAJU: What can I say my dear? I am an old man, and it is all the same to me. Just that I am very much
attached to the young one. Seshama, Venkama! You both want Him to go to Kamalapuram so that His behaviour
changes, so that He can study better, so that no harm befalls Him, and so that He eventually becomes a great man, is that
not? Well then, send Him there! Even He has agreed!! It is not in Sathya's nature to offend or hurt anyone.
(To be continued)
SERIAL ARTICLES
record has been poor. Does that mean that there is no

GITA FOR CHILDREN - hope? Not really. Just that in his case the due process of
Part 31 refinement would take longer, that is all. It is like travel; a
(Continued from previous issue) person would cover distance slower if he walks, than he
would if he rides a horse, that is all.'
Chapter 14
20. 'Depending on the 25. 'The Rajasic person
Guna of the person, Destiny would be born in an
bestows different kinds of environment of activity.
rewards on different people. All his life would be
A Tamasic person would be immersed in activity, like
condemned to a state of business, for example.
ignorance, naturally. I mean Such people are full of
how can a lazy person ever unfulfilled desires. They
hope to become wise or would therefore be born
knowledgeable?' again and again till their
thirst for worldly
attractions and pleasures get exhausted.'
21. 'As for the Rajasic person, he might know a lot about
the world but his greed and avarice would often plunge
him into misery.' 26. 'Worldly desire is the main cause for rebirth. Every
person has desires peculiar to his personality. I have not
yet said anything about the Sattvic person. What about
22. Arjuna asks, 'Krishna, there is something here that I
him? Believe it or not, he too has desires of his own! His
do not understand. My observation is that in this world, it
desire may not be rooted in greed or avarice, but gentle
is often the Sattvic person who suffers most and not the
people too have desires! They want good children, for
Rajasic person. In fact, frequently, it is the Rajasic person
example.'
who inflicts suffering on Sattvic persons.'
27. Arjuna asks, 'Krishna, God that is to say, You have to

23. Krishna replies, 'Superficially, what you say might
be reasonable! How can man ever get rid of desires? We
seem to be correct. But know this to be true: The pain that
have stories in the epics that tell us that even great souls
the Sattvic person undergoes is actually meant to purify
succumbed to desires of various kinds. Surely You can't be
him and increase his eligibility for God! Everything has a
serious when You are talking of getting rid of desires.'
purpose in My Master Plan!'
28. Krishna replies, 'You have a valid point there. But

24. 'All that I have told you so far is about how these
there is one thing that can be done and that is to change
people behave while alive. What is their fate after death?
the direction of desire. Instead of desiring the pleasures
The Tamasic person would be reborn somewhere at the
of the world, have an intense desire for God and seek the
bottom. He might even lose his human form, if his track
GITA FOR CHILDREN - Part 31
Bliss that the Lord alone can confer. Thus, by converting and sorrow bother only a person with a dual mind, or one
one type of desire into another type, all problems get who is below the Gunas. But our friend has a one-track
solved!' mind; he is concerned only with God and nothing else.
Thus, he is immersed in the world of Oneness. That is why
he is said to be beyond the Gunas.'
29. 'A person who desires only God automatically rises
above the Gunas. Such a person is called a Gunatheetha.
36. Sounding skeptical, Arjuna mutters, 'Sounds like a
tough job.'
30. Arjuna asks, 'Above the Gunas?'
37. Krishna comments, 'Oh yes? What is not difficult in

31. Krishna replies, 'Yes, above the Gunas!'
this world? Listen, if you want something desperately,
you will not really bother about difficulties, obstacles etc.
Both you and I have seen people struggling against
impossible odds to achieve all kinds of worldly objectives.
But when it comes to God, people seem to quit even
before trying!'
38. 'Reaching God is no more difficult than many of the

stupid stunts that people are trying all the time. People do
many mad things for fame; they want to become
immortal! How foolish! Removal of immorality is the
proper way to Immortality. Love Me and become one with
32. Arjuna continues, 'What does that mean?'
Me; that is the right and proper and indeed the only way
to become Immortal. Let not stunts delude you!'
33. Krishna replies, 'It simply means that person is not
Tamasic, he is not Rajasic, and he is not Sattvic either. He is
39. 'Well, to wrap it all up, people get what they deserve;
beyond all the three standard types.'
and that is determined essentially by their Gunas. The
Sattvic type get the best deal shall I say? They go to
34. Arjuna shakes his head and mutters, 'I can't
Heaven. However, their stay there will end for sure one
understand. What sort of person is this?'
day, and they have to come back and face the hassle all
over once again! But there is an even better deal, that is,
35. Krishna says in reply, 'Arjuna, I have in fact already coming to Me! He who makes Me his goal, comes to Me
described such a person earlier. Only, I did not use the for sure, and stays with Me for ever. That is certain!
term Gunatheetha then. Such a person couldn't care less

about the attractions of the world; that is because the
(To be continued)
only thing he wants is God. He is not bothered about
friend and foe, about joy and sorrow, etc. That is to say, he – Heart2Heart Team
is completely above the pairs of opposites. Things like joy
WINDOW TO SAI SEVA
GLIMPSES OF STIRRING
SEVA IN EUROPE
Registration for doctor`s examination
Earlier this year we had offered you stories of Sai Seva

being done in countries like Russia, New Zealand and
from three places in India. In this issue, we present
you accounts of inspiring service carried out all across
the European continent from Zone 6 regions 61 and
62. These have been taken from a book 'Sai Challenge' A Veterinary inspection
given to us lovingly by Sai devotees of these regions.
During the camp, a brother and a sister from Germany
In all we feature glimpses of worthy work from eight
looked after 24 children during a "painting" workshop,
countries and we hope to follow these up in later
thereby giving them an opportunity to heal their war
issues with more such accounts and in greater detail.
traumas, and enabling their parents to be free to see the
We start with Bosnia And Herzegovina.
doctors.
Medical Camp in Bosnia And Herzegovina
The whole place was crowded with doctors and patients.
In the town of Samac,
The ophthalmologist alone conducted over 100
in Bosnia and
examinations. The school headmaster was present for the
Herzegovina, 27 Sai
whole day, assisted by some associates, and at the end of
devotees conducted a
the day they helped to clean up, while Sai members re-
medical camp,
ordered the classrooms.
supported by 67
Following the medical camp, devotees also distributed
Doctors, social workers, the Women's Association, the
some clothes and food supplies. All the people openly
Red Cross and local volunteers. Medicines were donated
showed their happiness and gratitude and the Seva
by Sai members from all over Europe, and the Bosnian
attracted the press agency Srna, as well as a local TV
firms Euroliljek and Brcko helped with other supplies.
reporter, and both these institutions interviewed the
The local school director, aware of the work carried out by
representative of the Sathya Sai Organisation of Bosnia
the Sathya Sai Organization, offered his school premises
And Herzegovina.
to hold the camp in. As a result, the Sai organisation held
The camp also served the needs of some animals after
its biggest ever camp, serving 295 patients from the town
some country folk from a nearby village brought over
and the surrounding villages, comprising of 86 men, 167
some animals to be examined by the vet.
women and 42 children.
GLIMPSES OF STIRRING SEVA IN EUROPE
Making Greece Great 1 acute pneumonia and the other had a 'bronchial cough'
which could turn into asthma if untreated. Doctors fully
During a regular
examined the kids and offered all the required medicine,
Saturday food
including antibiotics, inhalers, and food, free of charge.
distribution at St.
They also promised to bring clothes, toys and whatever
George's court,
else they might need.
devotees met an
Albanian gypsy, mother The Sai team then took the children to have a bath, cut
of 5 children aged between 1 and 15 years old. She their hair and apply lice medication. Properly fed and with
worked all day selling clothes in an outdoor market, a clean blanket for each one of them, they took them back
whereas the alcoholic father is unemployed. They home, where they collected all their clothes for washing.
decided to help them and 4 Sai members as well as 4 non- The following day one child, Diane developed a high
members took on this task. fever, and they lovingly took her home and looked after
her all night.
After visiting the family they took one of the daughters, 4
year-old Diane, to see a children's theatre show. They On subsequent visits the devotees instructed the older
quickly realised that the child was very sick, suffering sister how to take care of the younger children. Since the
from head lice, malnutrition and poor physical hygiene. children wished to be baptized and to attend school, they
As she was kept at home all day she also had poor social discussed these issues with the mother who agreed and
skills. After taking her back home, the team became accepted these proposals.
extremely concerned as they discovered two other two
The team also took the children on their first ever visit to a
children were also very sick.
playground which they really enjoyed. When they took
The following day they took the three children to a local them to the church to meet the priest who was to baptize
Public hospital. One child was diagnosed suffering from them, he was so touched by their story that he made
arrangements to provide them food on a daily basis. Also,
a second hand washing machine, refrigerator and stove
have been delivered to the family. The devotees felt they
discovered that by acting sincerely to alleviate human
problems all doors open up and help comes from many
places.
Making Greece Great - 2

The local Sai group decided to clean an area of some acres
from the litter that visitors carelessly leave behind in
Hair trimmning Parnitha forest. Mount Parnitha, one of the most

beautiful mountains in Greece, now part of a national
park that surrounds Athens, is a unique natural retreat for
the inhabitants of the capital.
The devotees contacted the chief officer of the local

council who accepted their offer of help and agreed to
give them such assistance as was available regarding the
cleaning of the area. The first day an inspection team
visited the mountain and selected the prime areas where
the visitors were found to be leaving litter.
On a second visit, the same team worked out where the

Hair care collections would be undertaken. A careful plan was
WINDOW TO SAI SEVA
during the service. Their work also attracted an article in

the local paper "Acharness" as an example for imitation.
Helping a Slovenian Family

The Ljubljana Sai Centre
had been arranging
joint service with the
Novo Mesto Centre and
the Velenje group for
quite some time. So
Loading trash when the Slovenian Youth Friends' Association and the
Social Services informed them about a family in need of
help they wanted to answer the call.
The family has five members: Father, 54 years, who is

retired due to being a disabled person: Mother, 38 years,
is registered as unemployed and can hardly find a job as
she has two small children who are ill. The boy is five and
is short-sighted, having 7.5 diopters in one eye. The girl is
two and a half and suffers from bronchitis. The family
depends on social assistance and spends the majority of
Garbage collection their income to pay the rent for one half of an old house
where they live and they have very little money left for
formulated as to how the members would be positioned food and fuel. The family receives clothes from the
at the starting point and where they would move onto in
order to achieve the best results.
On the third visit, the actual collection took place. 14

participating Sai members from a few Centres with three
friends who were non-members took part, using dozens
of huge litter bags, and wearing work gloves.
After filling many bags with litter, they carried them to a

specific point on the trail for collection. The items
gathered included sleeping bags, plastic and glass
bottles, tins, broken toys and pieces of furniture, paper,
tires and numerous other items. At a specified time a
Firewood being shifted into a stack
municipality truck arrived and the bags were loaded for
disposal.
They also gave ecology lessons to some families that were

picnicking in the area asking them to take their litter away
in their cars and dispose of it correctly. They pointed out
that even though litter had been left in sealed bags, stray
dogs would easily tear the packages open, and strew the
litter all around the place.
The team felt great fulfillment and satisfaction with the

team spirit and cooperation that united all of them Members carring some of the supplies
Humanitarian Organization and the Red Cross.
The devotees visited the family to find out their most

urgent needs discovering that their most essential
requisite was heating for the winter, when temperatures
can drop below freezing. They also asked for food, used
clothes and a bicycle for the small girl.
After few service meetings at the Centres where members

were advised about the family and their needs they were
able to collect food, clothes, books, toys and bicycles for
both children. Then two donors offered to provide the
firewood and others to transport it to the family's house. Rubbish being collected
34 members from the Sai Centre and nearby Sai groups
joined in the service. The house grounds needed a good
cleaning, so they started by collecting all the litter and
garbage that was spread around in plastic bags. When
the area was tidied up, some members started to prepare
the food, and others distributed all the goods collected
for them.
A big pile of firewood - about 8 cubic meters - that was

unloaded earlier that morning, had to be stored in its
proper place. More than 10 Sai members made a chain
Even children join in
and passed the wood from the pile as far as the wood
shed, while others carried firewood to a place under the
eaves of the house using wheelbarrows. All the wood was
moved and stored after two hours.
After all this help the family was very satisfied and openly
expressed their gratitude.
Let Us Not Litter in France

One devotee often
passes by a public
housing estate in
Rubbish being loaded into the van
Clichy-Sous-Bois about
20 km from Paris. She
noticed that the
grounds around this estate were always extremely dirty,
full of litter. Her observations spawned the idea for some
Seva to make this site more pleasant for its residents,
more welcoming to visitors and passers-by, and
eventually to become an example.
Office bearers from the Paris 1 and Paris 3 Centres took

part in a preliminary reconnaissance mission and took
photos to be able to organise the work. They fixed the
Almost done
rendezvous point, the equipment needed and the vehicle
WINDOW TO SAI SEVA
to transport the collected rubbish to the public dump. enjoy its blue waters
and golden sand, yet
28 members participated in this challenge: 25 Sai
neglect to collect their
members (including 5 youths), plus 3 Canadian non-
litter when they leave.
members on vacation in Paris, who delayed their
As a consequence,
departure so that they could take part in the activity.
garbage had been
While they were busy working, two young children who
amassed and strewn throughout the whole area.
were walking their dogs were intrigued by what they saw.
They came close to watch the devotees picking up The challenge of cleaning the coast began with only a few
rubbish thrown from the estate windows and one of the people but soon some visitors, who were watching from
members told them, "See how dirty the estate is? What a nearby, joined in and started to collect the garbage too.
lack of respect for nature and for everybody who lives Everybody enjoyed doing the service, and they cleaned
here. This is a not a good example." The children the beaches on several other occasions. As before,
immediately replied, "Ma'm, we'd like to help you clean. ordinary visitors came to take part and all worked
We're going to ask our mother for permission". They together as a team. This simple work helped all the
hurried away, and very soon they came back to help. participants enjoy themselves and led to a great sense of
satisfaction.
Several passers-by watched with amazement,
murmuring and smiling a "thank you". One man thought
they were from the City Hall. Apparently, the residents of
the estate had been asking for over a year for the city
authorities to send someone from the "Streets and Roads
Department" to pick up the burned garbage and empty
oil cans thrown around this improvised parking area!
They replied that they were not from the City Hall, but just
a group of friends that preferred to spend their time in
this way instead of watching television. He couldn't
believe his ears and couldn't stop thanking them "from
Team work...works
the bottom of his heart".
After a joyful picnic lunch in the adjoining woods, that

was made more pleasant by a short play on the theme of
nonviolence acted by the young people, they started
work again. They saw with regret that some of the areas
cleaned that morning were already dirty again from
garbage thrown out of the estate windows! But now five
kids living there were waiting to help them again. Finally,
they gathered approximately 80 garbage bags together
with some large other items and performed two trips to
Bagging garbage
the public dump, located several kilometres away.
At the end of the afternoon they left tired but very happy. Ensuring Italian Hospitality
The Sai Organisation in
Beautifying Croatia
Italy has been working
Four members from Croatian Centres were selected to
on the maintenance
clean one of the most beautiful coasts to be found in the
and restructuring of a
country, which had become terribly neglected despite its
cottage guest house in
popularity. Even in autumnal September, people come to
the woods inside
Super Music from Spain

T h e S p a n i s h
Organisation came
together in a truly
harmonious way to
create a CD of
devotional songs which
are easy to assimilate by the public in general. The idea
was to spend a weekend together and to record the songs
in two days with the help of technicians and professional
Repairing the roof
friends. As a result, a beautiful CD was produced.
They first looked for the necessary human resources. They

selected a dedicated member to coordinate the project,
and then had to select members from different parts of
Spain who had good voices and were able to perform as
singers and musicians alike. Finally, the co-ordinator
arranged for the participation of a professional musician
and a recording technician from "Rec Studios" in Valencia.
These friends who were non-members, worked hand in
hand with the project's director and their selfless and
generous assistance made the final results possible. So at
Painters at work
“Mother Sai” premises. This is part of a larger and more

demanding challenge that they are executing so that the
entire complex operates efficiently.
All the work was coordinated by professional builders,

carpenters, painters, ably aided by Sai members from all
over Italy. And many tasks were successfully completed
like:
, Painting the walls, ceilings, doors and window frames.

, The installation of a new roof.
Getting ready to record
, Finishing touches to fixtures.
, Cleaning of gutter and rain-pipes.
, Renovating the external fence.
, The construction of a new gate.
, Leveling the surrounding land of the cottage.
The Mother Sai guest house is now ready to
accommodate Sai members and visitors from all over
Europe, and ensures them a hearty and hospitable
welcome.
Devotional songs being recorded
WINDOW TO SAI SEVA
the end the team achieved the collaboration of 21

people.
The team stayed in the residence of a local member and in

just one intense weekend recorded all the main voices,
accompanied by the guitar and percussion.
The songs had already been selected by the music

director, who had also composed a number of new songs,
and these were recorded one after the other under the
supervision of the National Coordinator.
The remaining features such as additional musical The recipient of the the reovation
looks on with joy
arrangements, blending, etc. were then completed by the
music director with the assistance of professional experts
from the small studio where all the recording took place.
As an expression of their love to Sai and the community

the CD was titled "We Surrender". They state that their
motivation was to uplift the consciousness and reach the
hearts of people through devotional and spiritual
singing. Their CD includes 18 devotional songs.
Service from Switzerland

Some time ago, two Sai
members travelled to The end product
Prashanti Nilayam, and
gloomy her apartment was, in direct contrast to the light
after hearing so much
she carried inside.
from them about
Sathya Sai Baba, one of Some Sai members heard of her discomfort and decided
their neighbours, an 83 year old lady decided to travel to intervene. On a Spring Saturday morning, three
with them all the way to India. members from the Centre of Basel visited her home
equipped with a ladder and all the essentials they needed
The trip made them all feel extremely happy and joyful
to decorate the apartment. They worked with great
and back home in Sissach near Basel, the old lady was still
enthusiasm for the whole day, in the name of Sai. The old
touched by the immense Love and light of Sai that she
lady helped as much as she could and by that evening, all
had received. However, she now came to notice how
rooms were freshly-painted and the place was full of
light. The old lady is very happy now that Sathya Sai
Baba's light is shining both within her and around her.
Dear reader, these are very short accounts and small

glimpses of what's happening in Europe. There is lot more
happening in all these and other European countries,
which we hope to collect, collate and share with you in
the coming issues. From your side, if you are in Europe
and know of any inspiring service activity happening in
your region, you are welcome to send it to us at
h2h@radiosai.org. Thank you for your time.
Before renovation – Heart2Heart Team
PRASHANTI DIARY
visited some devotees' homes. We are sure that you, dear

reader, would like to know more about all this and we will
PRASHANTI DIARY -
be covering the amazing Kodai story on a serial basis
CHRONICLES OF starting from next issue in the 'H2H Special' section of
HEAVEN ON EARTH H2H!
Swami's Return to
As we informed you in our last issue, Swami left for Kodai
Prashanti Nilayam on 18 May 2007
Kanal on 26th April. Bhagavan graced those sylvan hills
for 22 days a welcome respite to all from the blazing sun
at Puttaparthi. Twenty-six students and several elders had
the good fortune of being invited as Bhagawan's
entourage, and all had a holy, joy-filled time there. Many
devotees travelled from the surrounding areas to have
their Darshan of Bhagavan in that unique setting. During
the three weeks Eashwaramma day celebrations were
carried out with great enthusiasm and there were
numerous special concerts and talks.
Touchdown in Puttaparthi airport
There was a lot of anticipation and excitement in the air as

news that Swami would be arriving in Parthi had spread
far and wide. The aircraft was scheduled to land at Parthi
anytime after 3:00pm from Coimbatore. Banners and
buntings, flowers and mango leaves had been put up
everywhere in order to accord a warm welcome to the
Lord.
There was an eager murmur at about 3:15pm as the

Indian Airlines flight made its first appearance in the
horizon. It approached the airport from the eastern
Swami giving Darshan in Kodai direction and gently landed, taxiing along the runway. As
it came to a halt, the airport staff got into action
immediately and a “roomy” platform was raised to the
front door of the plane.
Blessing the ladies in the morning Darshan
Bhagavan organised Narayana Seva on a grand scale and

the students and elders alike participated in the
distribution of gifts of food and clothes. Swami also Swami appears to the expectant crowd
PRASHANTI DIARY
Sai Geetha was happy to see Swami back
He gets into the front seat of the car
There was a cheer as the orange robe made its first

appearance at the door. Swami too seemed to mirror the
eagerness and anticipation of everyone at Parthi. He
came out of the plane blessing everyone and looking
down at all those who had gathered. He sat in the front
seat of the Sonata car waiting for Him and then began the
journey to the mandir- and what a journey it was!
Devotees and the local people had gathered en masse

Drums beating away to let
Puttaparthi know that Swami is back home
along the entire stretch of the road. Swami too seemed to

have instructed the driver to slow down wherever the
devotees had gathered. He was smiling at all and blessing
everybody. The tinted glass of the car could in no way
reduce the ceaseless and spontaneous outpouring of love
from both the sides. It is indeed a scene to be seen - the
relationship between Swami and His devotees. Coconuts
broke by the hundreds and flowers of myriad colours
were showered on the car. The flower shower was so
Crowds welcome home their Lord
profuse that the security guards had to constantly
remove the flowers on the windscreen so that Swami
could see the devotees ahead and vice versa. There was
also a special motorcycle escort squad of the Puttaparthi
youth to lead the convoy. The convoy slowly wended its
way along the serpentine roads cleaned with water and
lined with rangolis. A band of drummers also joined the
convoy near the Vidyagiri arch. From the gopuram gate as
Swami entered, the students conducted a vedam
procession led by dancers and music. A welcome song
filled the air that was already heavy with love and
Pranams to Swami!
devotion.
CHRONICLES OF HEAVEN ON EARTH
On one altar was the

child Buddha and the
other had Buddha in
the meditative pose.
Swami was welcomed

with Japanese
drumming. The
drummer stood in the
centre of the hall
gracefully moving and
powerfully playing the
single traditional drum
Darshan in Kulwant hall Swami receiving the Aarthi - the Taiko. These
drums have a tradition
Swami alighted near the interview room and sat on the going back more than 2000 years old and are used for
sofa looking at the devotees on both the ladies and gents ceremonies in temples and shrines, inviting God to the
side for a while. He received Aarthi and then went into the place of ceremony.
interview room. Swami went to Yajur Mandir for a short
Swami took a complete darshan round and arrived at the
while and then returned for the evening bhajans.
portico near the interview room. There He alighted and lit
Buddha Poornima
Morning Programme
on 21 May
Devotees from many Buddhist countries:
Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Sri Lanka
and also Indian devotees with Buddhist
roots arrived to celebrate Buddha
Poornima in the divine presence of
Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The
morning programme for today
commenced with Swami's arrival after
Rahu Kaalam at 9:10am. The hall had
been decorated in Japanese Buddhist
style and two altars for Bhagavan
Buddha had been set on the main stage.
PRASHANTI DIARY
a candle on the cake specially made for the occasion.

Swami then formally inaugurated the celebrations by
lighting the lamp in front of the Buddha altar. There was a
dance by the Japanese youth accompanied by the Taiko
drums. After a short presentation, there was the “Buddha
Bathing” ritual. As a symbol of inner purification, a little
Buddha is bathed with fragrant water. This ritual
highlights the universal message that it is simple to wash
away physical dirt but much more difficult to cleanse
one's inner dirt of ignorance, greed and anger. The ritual
The drummer welcoming Swami
Bathing the Buddha
Swami lighting the candle on the cake
Chanting near the altar

Children dancing to the Japanese drum
was performed by ladies dressed in traditional dresses
while holy chants rended the air. The monks too
performed worship at the “meditative Buddha” altar.
A lady monk master then presented Swami the Ta Bei

Chou. This is an ancient Buddhist scripture which
contains mantras of mercy and compassion. It contains
84 different names and forms of Buddha as Kuan Yin,
with illustrations of each form done by Master Wu Cheng.
Swami accepted the manuscript and leafed through it.
The monk then took padanamaskar and went back to her
Drums beat out the dance for the youth
place with a smile beaming on her face.
Master Wu Cheng's work presented to Swami Dr. Venerable Bellanvilla
Ta Bei Chou- the Holy book Tulku Karma Gyurme

presented to Swami. Sonam Rinpoche
Then Swami permitted bhajans to begin. Devotees from Venerable Bellanvilla Wimalaratna from Sri Lanka . Dr.
the host countries lead the bhajans and Swami blessed Wimalaratna is the chancellor of University of Sri
the prasadam to be distributed to all. The prasadam was a Jayawardhapura , Sri Lanka . He is also serving as the
Japanese jellied sweet- Yokan made in Hokkaido. Swami Secretary General of the World Buddhist Sanga Council in
then went into the interview room as the bhajans Sri Lanka . He dilated at length on the teachings of
continued. He came out and at 10:15 am received Aarthi, Buddha. Describing Buddha as the perfect man he
cut the cake on which He had earlier lit a candle and then exhorted everyone to make efforts to attain that state.
left for Yajur Mandir.
The second speaker was Reverend Tulku Karma Gyurme
Buddha Poornima Sonam Rinpoche . He continued where the first speaker

Evening Programme on 21 May had left off and further detailed on the teachings of
In the afternoon, Swami came out at 4:05 pm. The Buddha. He was profusely grateful to Swami for having
backdrop for the drama had already been put up and given him this opportunity to speak in His presence. It was
Swami eyed it intently as He passed by it in the car. He his first public speech to a Sai audience.
completed a full darshan round and then sat onstage. The
Swami then consented for the drama on Buddha to be
most amazing thing was the welcome Vedic chants. The
put on. Before the drama could begin, Swami called
Vedas were being chanted by the Japanese and other
Reverend Tulku Karma Gyurme Sonam Rinpoche to Him.
Buddhist devotees at the mike. The pronunciation and
As Swami spoke to him, the entire hall came to a perfect
delivery were impressive. Swami sat listening to the
standstill witnessing the interaction between the Lord
chants for about 5-6 minutes. Then the programme
and His devotee. The announcer also stopped the drama
began. Mr Nari Chugani, Chairman for Zone 5 introduced
announcement. A loving interaction followed after which
the two speakers for the evening. The first speaker was Dr.
Swami materialised a beautiful Navaratna ring for him.
PRASHANTI DIARY
ultimate secret of life is love

and it is expressed as non
violence.
Buddha spends his entire life

spreading love and
nonviolence and is tolerant
towards all. When some village
folks advise him against
breaking bread in the house of
a woman of supposedly bad
character, Buddha lovingly tells
them, "A single hand cannot
produce clapping sounds. It
needs the other hand to co-
operate too. So too, left to
Siddhartha seeing sights never before seen

themselves, individuals are not
bad." Then he goes ahead to
say, "There are 5 sinners - those
He was overjoyed and returned to his place after taking who commit the sin, those who accompany the sinner,
Padanamaskar. Then three Japanese ladies came up on
stage to offer the new book "Enlightened Beings" to
Swami. Swami accepted the roses and browsed through
the book and accepted it. A lady then offered the
programme schedule. The drama was titled "Buddha No
Monogatari". Swami had a look at it and then the three
ladies bowed down to Him and left. This was followed by
the inauguration of some more books by Swami which
were offered by Mr. Ashok Sakhrani, the National
Chairperson of Hong Kong . Then the Drama began.
The drama was based on the life of Gautama Buddha. It

was introduced and connected throughout with
commentary by two "soothra dharas" or stage managers.
It opens with the scene where a prediction is made to
King Shuddhodhana about his son, the little prince
Siddhartha, would become a renunciant and a great
seeker. Shuddhodhana, trying to thwart the prophetic
words, limits Siddhartha to the confines of the palace.
However, when he is old enough, Siddhartha tours his
kingdom where he sees sights that he had never seen
before. Sickness, old age and death shake him up and the
calming sight of a monk in meditation drives him to seek
the ultimate source of never ending bliss. Siddhartha is
well on his path to becoming the Buddha. He receives
enlightenment under the Bodhi tree and finds that the Buddha under the bodhi tree
those who help the sinner, those who watch the sin and
those who know that the sin is being committed and yet
do nothing about it." The drama also made use of a
demoness to represent symbolically how the evil qualities
of hate and jealousy etc fade away in the face of love. The
conclusion came when the Buddha gives up his mortal
coil peacefully and inspires his disciple Ananda to go
within. "Oh Ananda, all the while I searched for the Truth.
But it was forever within. Seek within oh Ananda, seek
within." The drama concluded with all the participants
coming forward in a formation. Swami appeared very
pleased and He descended from the stage to grant them
group photos. He spoke with many of the participants as Gomadaki ceremony begins with chanting
they gathered around Him. After blessing them thus, went on, the flames lit up with a flicker. They rose higher
Swami received Aarthi near the interview room and left. and higher and soon an impressive flame glowed bright
just like the Dusshera yajnam days, as the Buddhist yajna
Evening Programme on 22 May
Swami came out today was on, Swami asked for bhajans to begin. After the
evening at about 4:25 Gomadaki, Swami said that chairs for the priests must be
pm. Since the devotees laid out right in front of Him and the priests must be
could not see Him in the seated comfortably there.
morning, His arrival was
celebrated in glee and
clapping. He was
accorded a traditional
welcome again with the
drums and dances.
The first programme of

the evening was a solo
drum-dance-vocal
performance by a Solo performance
member of the youth. for Swami
Flames rise up and up
This was followed by a
dance by Japanese women with traditional fans in their
hands. Swami then permitted the Hong Kong Ladies choir
to begin their recital. The conductor offered a rose and
pranaams to Swami and then the Choir began. The first
song which ran as "Chuen Zhun Chuen Shan" was the
translation of the popular bhajan, "Satyam Jnanam
Anantam Brahma". Two English songs specially
composed for the occasion were sung which were in
prayer and devotion to Lord Buddha and Swami. They
rendered songs for 20-25 minutes and received applause Swami asks the Priests to sit in front of Him
from the audience and a benevolent smile from Swami.
The final programme was the "Gomadaki" ceremony. The It was a wonderful opportunity for them and they sat
priests lit the sacred fire with incense sticks. As the chants there, palms folded in love and reverence. Prasadam was
PRASHANTI DIARY
Always at Swami's side
Sai Geeta playing with her beloved
The gorgeous and graceful Sai Geeta
Swami left after giving exact instructions on what should

be done.
But again at 11 am Swami came to see the body which

was being transported by a crane. It took nearly one and a
half hours to finally lower Gita to her final resting place in
the same palatial shed she lived in which was a recent gift
from the Lord. The most wonderful thing was that Swami
was there all the while - sitting patiently in the car and in
the sun (a sunshade was brought after a while). He left
Sai Geeta bowing before Mother Sai
only at 12:15 pm! Such was the respect that Sai Geeta
holds in our hearts that more than 2,000 devotees
distributed. Swami then received Aarthi and left.
thronged to the place to make their final pranaams to the
The Mergence of Sai Geeta great soul. It is true to say that Parthi has been
This year was also significant in the fact that after more experiencing a void and news of her passing away has
than twenty years, Swami returned to Puttaparthi and been received as a shock.
not to Brindavan in Bangalore. Many strongly feel that
We hope to pay our respects to this divine being by
this was an act of Grace for His very special devotee, Sai
offering you another cover story on Sai Geeta in July
Gita, who passed away a few days after Swami's return on
2007, which will follow on from our January 2007 cover
22 May in the evening. On the 23 May, Swami visited her
story: Sai Geeta …A Mystifying Tale Of Unmatched Love.
body at 8:30 am. Pedda Reddy, Gita's caretaker for many
years, burst into tears. After consoling Pedda Reddy, Thank you for being with us. Sairam.
Swami lovingly patted Gita calling, "Gita, Gita..." and
opened up a packet of Vibhuti to shower it on her trunk. – Heart2Heart Team
H2H SPECIAL
"HE IS MY SWAMI"
Part 2
Conversation with Mrs. Padma Kasturi
Continued from Last Issue
This is the second part of a transcript of the

conversation between Mrs. Padma Kasturi (PK),
daughter of Sri N Kasturi, Swami’s biographer and
Ms. Rajeshwari Patel (RP), a former student and
faculty member in the Anantapur campus of Sathya
Sai University aired on Radio Sai a few weeks ago.
RP: Okay. Let's first finish talking about your father. Then
we will go to you because I am sure you have a lot of
things to share with the listeners of Radio Sai! What were
the last years of Prof. Kasturi like?
PK: You mean his ailment or…
RP: We know that the intimacy was growing towards the

end; no doubt! But he himself must have said certain
things about those last few years from '85 on towards
'87? Did he ever talk about how the University was only in 1981]
formed? There were so many vast changes that were
RP: Yes! He had no doubt about that! What else about
taking place! Did he have any intimations of his end that
those last years? He was ailing you said tell us a little bit
he would be missing all this?
about that.
PK: No. He never missed Him because he would go to see
PK: He had a little back ache and he used to go to Swami
Swami everyday! So he never missed that intimacy.
by wheel-chair. But he couldn't go upstairs.
RP: No, I mean the remaining part of whatever we have
RP: When was this?
seen now in the last 10-15 years?
PK: His backache started in '85 and he passed away in '87.
Doctorate Conferred By the Divine Swami had come to our house to see him twice.
PK: He was very happy with all that was going on and
how Swami's glories were spreading, and His University, His Beloved Instrument till the End
RP: But he continued to do the Sanathana Sarathi (the
etc. He was getting old and when he saw so many
ashram monthly)?
youngsters coming, he was very happy!
PK: Oh yes. But he
RP: That is what I was getting at it is so beautiful that he
pleaded with Him: “Swami
saw that the vision of Swami was now being passed on
I can't do this editor's job
and another generation would take over.
anymore. Please hand it
PK: In 1954 Swami had called my father for unveiling His
over to someone else!”
portrait in the Bukkapatnam High School. In that
But Swami said: “No! You
invitation He had put his name as: “Dr. Kasturi, Ph. D” and
are the editor and you will
when somebody asked Swami: “In which University did
continue to be the editor
this Kasturi get his Ph. D?” Swami said: “Puttaparthi
till your last!”
University!” I think Swami had a plan already about this
RP: So he was working
University and all that! [The University came into being
H2H SPECIAL
until the end? then we can go.”
PK: Yes. He passed away on August 14 and even though That whole night he was crying: “Oh! This is my fate! I
he couldn't write that month, but he would dictate and can't go to see Swami!” Then he wrote a letter to Swami
my son would write and help him out and also take care and Swami sent a reply: “Kasturi, accept My Blessings.
of him. Don't have any fear! Swami is with you and around you.
Be courageous, think of Him! Give up other thoughts!
RP: Oh good. So he did Swami's work till the last
The body is a water bubble; on its account do not feel sad.
moment! Do you have any mementos of that period?
Spend your time in thinking of God. Yours, Baba.” - Dated
PK: He got an attack of jaundice in April and he passed
April, 1987 from Brindavan.
away in August. Somebody told him that Swami was not
Then, two months later, he wrote another letter to Swami
well and that He was then in Brindavan; Bangalore and
- in June '87 because he didn't have Darshan for so many
that He hadn't given Darshan for 3 days it seems He had
months, so the agony of wanting to see Him was there.
taken on somebody's heart attack or something like that
and He had become very weak. He had that attachment RP: Did he write to Swami himself?
towards Swami so he said: “I must go to see Swami!
PK: Yes. Even though he couldn't write, he scribbled.
Please arrange a taxi and take me to Him! We can start
Then one day I told him: “See, you are scribbling and
early and leave at 5 o 'clock and just have His Darshan and
Swami may not be able to read this! I think I better write
we will come back!”
and put yours along with this. He said: “No! Not with my
His jaundice was severe and his glucose was low but he letter! If you want, you can write yours and post it
still pleaded me to arrange a taxi! I said: “How can I go? separately!”
You are not just my father; you are Prashanti Nilayam's
RP: So this second letter that He sent in June'87 is much
property too! If something happens they will scold me
bigger than the letter in April which seems quite normal.
and I don't know what Swami will say?”
But apparently Bhagavan has written every word
That evening he almost cried and said: “We can call Shri separately and much bigger letters.
Kutumba Rao and ask him to call Swami and get His
PK: Yes, because he had become very weak by that time.
permission. You can go at 10 to ask him.”
RP: And Bhagavan wanted him to be able to read it
Exceptional Love himself.
RP: He was worrying about Swami even though he
himself was not well! “Wait For Sai”
PK: Yes. He wrote: “Kasturi, Accept My Blessings. Sai is
PK: Yes. So I went at with you and around you. Be happy. Don't think of
about 10 and told Mr. anything. Be constantly in the thought of God. This is the
Kutumba Rao that we chief sadhana (spiritual practice) that you must do now. I
had made arrange- will come soon; wait for Sai. Yours, Baba.”
ments for everything.”
RP: He said: “Wait for Sai. So did Swami come?”
He said: “You are taking
a risk!” I said: “I have to PK: Yes. Before my father passed away on August 14, he
take a risk because he is was in the hospital for a week. And when anybody would
pleading with me!” pass by our house, he would think it was Swami!
Then he asked me: RP: Swami was constantly in his thoughts!

“What if something happens on the way?” I said: “That's PK: Yes! He wanted to meet Swami! Then Swami sent
good. He is thinking of Swami's Darshan on the way; if word that: “I cannot come to your home; for if I do, the
anything has to happen, let it happen.” He said: “No! It is whole crowd will come! Admit him in the hospital and I
a risk.” Then he and Dr. Alreja came and convinced him will come there and give him Darshan.”
saying: “We will call Swami and get His permission and
"HE IS MY SWAMI" - Part 2
RP: So Swami came from Brindavan a week before he “Freedom has come!”
passed away? RP: Bhagavat-chintana!
PK: No. Swami came in June! PK: So since the day

Swami came to the
RP: Oh! So He returned from Brindavan in June when He
hospital, no visitors were
wrote in that letter: “Wait for Swami!”
allowed and the day he
PK: Yes. Swami came to see him the day he was admitted passed away, he was a
to the hospital and made him drink a glass full of water little breathless. He didn't
and told him to just think of God and not to worry about reply to anything, he
anything. He said: “Ask the Doctors not to allow any didn't show any response
visitors to come and disturb him.” He didn't want any one to my son's calling either
to talk to him - the only two persons there were me and even though he knew his
my son. voice and was there on
RP: Because he wanted him to follow Swami's command that day taking care of
to think constantly only of Him! him.
PK: Yes. Someone suggested I should play the Then Dr. Alreja went and told Swami that he is feeling
sahasranaam but when I played that he said: “No! I don't breathless and Swami said: “He has served Me for forty
want anything!” years! Freedom has come!” Then He told Dr. Alreja: “I will
come to the hospital to see him, so don't give him
RP: His whole life was totally immersed in thoughts of
anything” - they were giving him glucose in a very small
just Swami only!
dose; about four drops a minute or so.
Realising the Ultimate About 11:30 or so Swami had gone to the College to see
PK: Yes. One day, in June
some drama practice and then he came to the hospital
before Gurupurnima
immediately. We were all there. The breathlessness was
he suddenly called my
still there and suddenly there was some agony in Swami's
son and said: “I am
face as He came in calling: “Kasturi! Kasturi!”
Atma (the spirit)!
Immediately my father opened his eyes!
Kasturi is dead! Go and
tell everybody that!” RP: He was not responding to your calls?
RP: He said that? PK: No. Only to Swami! I think he was waiting for that
call!
PK: Yes. I think he had
spiritually realized it. RP: Oh! And when Swami came, he opened his eyes
My son was disturbed as to what he was saying and why immediately!
he was talking like this. So I went to ask him and he said PK: Yes, immediately! Then he was trying to fold his
the same thing to me too! hands to do namaskaram and Swami touched both his
RP: So in those few months of ailment, Swami had hands and created vibhuti and applied it on his forehead
uplifted his consciousness to that level! and He gave me some and told me to mix it with some
water. Then He asked me if he took any food since
PK: I think so. In the end he told me: “Please don't force
morning? I said: “No Swami. I am just giving him some
any food on me.” I said: “Your body is still here and I have
drops of coconut water because his lips and mouth are
to take care of your body! So I won't force you but please
dry.” Then He was just standing there for 2-3 minutes.
eat whatever you want and how much ever you want!”
And he said: “Okay. But don't force me anymore.” RP: What was the expression on Swami's face?
After that, he didn't say anything and I think inwardly he PK: After that, Swami was cool because the
was thinking about Swami only Swami! breathlessness was not that much. Then He immediately
H2H SPECIAL
asked me to take His namaskaaram. I felt like He was the room and to repeat 'Aum Shri Sai Ram' and He asked
saying that the responsibility is now mine. He the Doctor to inform Him when it was all over. We were all
commanded me and my son. Then He went down and repeating 'Aum Shri Sai Ram' till 12:30.
told the Doctors: “Just one more hour.” Then He added:
Attainment of the Highest
“He was a very famous man; he worked in the All-India RP: And then there was the grand procession!
Radio. We have to make a grand procession because he
PK: Yes, on the next day. It was India's Independence Day
was world-famous!”
too. It was a grand procession. Swami had asked the
RP: Definitely. He was a world-famous teacher; so it had canteen to be closed and sent all the students to the
to be grand! procession! There was Veda recitation and bhajans
PK: And He asked all the Doctors and the nurses to go to during cremation. After cremation, Karunyananda (a
monk very close to Swami those days) came and told me
that there was this kapalamoksha the soul escapes the
brahmanantra so it was not a usual death!
RP: So the skull had split and the soul had left the body
through the skull.
PK: Yes.
RP: And that is a sign of someone who has attained total

mergence with God!
PK: Yes. So in the evening when I was sitting in the line,

Swami told me: “He has attained what he has got to
attain! So there is no need to do any karma or anything
for him!”
RP: No rituals - because we do the rituals to pray for the

souls mergence; and in this case it was not needed. So
Swami didn't want any rituals to be done.
PK: No. He said: “On the 12th day, I will Myself do some
Narayana Seva (feeding the poor) and I will arrange for
everything for some puja (worship) in the house.”
RP: And He did all that!
(To be continued)
SWAMI AND ME
the procession, facing Swami, unlike the normal practice

of the people marching forward with their back, facing
The Source, Sweetness the deity. Later on, he and the other family members
and Sustenance of My life – learnt that the devotees faced Baba to observe the
My Sai changes in His visage (e.g. as Rama, Krishna, Durga,
Laxmi, Saraswati), and also to catch the sweets and
by Dr. Narendranath Reddy
medallions materialized and thrown by Him from time to
time.
Dr. Narendranath Reddy graduated with distinction Later on, we heard Swami's discourse in Hyderabad in
from SV Medical College, Tirupati. He had training in 1970. We admired His speech as that of a holy man but
internal medicine at the New Jersey College of did not recognize Him as an avatar. Only after coming to
Medicine and Dentistry and did his sub-specialization USA, Swami attracted us to Him through the Sri Sathya
in Endocrinology and Metabolism at Mount Sinai Sai Baba Center in Hollywood in 1977. After my father's
School of Medicine, New York. He has been a retirement my parents came to USA to live with us as
practicing internist-endocrinologist in Southern immigrants in May 1981, and all of us regularly attended
California for over 25 years. He is a Fellow of the the Hollywood Sathya Sai Center. Very soon, the whole
American College of Physicians and the American family was attracted to Swami's unique and universal
College of Endocrinologists and is Assistant Clinical teachings.
Professor of Medicine at the Keck School of Medicine, My father developed an intense desire to move back to
University of Southern California. Dr. Reddy presented India and stay in the presence of the avatar and do some
papers at the American Federation of Clinical service in His ashram. Accordingly my parents left for
Research in Boston. He is Chairman of the India in July 1983 and reached Prasanthi Nilayam on 15
International Medical Committee of the Sri Sathya Sai July. Bhagavan Baba graciously fulfilled my father's desire
Organization and a member of the Prasanthi Council. of doing service in His Ashram by giving him an
He serves as a Director of the Sri Sathya Sai World appointment in Sri Sathya Sai University and have him
Foundation which is the governing body of the Sathya serve as a member of Sathya Sai Central Office and Sri
Sai International Organization. Sathya Sai Books and Publications Trust.
First Divine Darshan 'This is the right time for you'

I had first darshan of After my parents settled in
Swami in Puttaparthi when Prasanthi Nilayam, I used
I was about five years old. I to visit the Ashram
was taken by my parents to periodically along with my
see Bhagavan during the family. During my first
1950 Dasara celebrations. interview with Swami in
However, my father being 1984, I asked Him why He
an ardent follower of Sri made me wait all these
Ramakrishna, was not years, although I had been
attracted to Swami worshipping Shirdi Sai
from my childhood and
Dr. Narendranath Reddy thinking that he was a man
at the Radio Sai studio o f m i r a c l e s . S r i also I had first darshan of
Ramakrishna warned that Parthi Sai in 1950 itself. Pat
miracles are obstacles for spiritual seekers. Unfortunately, came the reply from Swami: "My child, everything has
we applied to the Avatar the restriction meant for a its right time and this is the right time for you. For
spiritual aspirant. For, miracles are the natural expression example, when we have a cataract, the doctor operates it
of the divine love of an Avatar. Because we did not have only when it is mature; otherwise the eye gets damaged.
faith, even the kumkum (vermillion) that was given as Also if you have a wound on your body and if you remove
prasad disappeared on our way back home. My father the scab before the wound heals completely, there will be
was surprised that Swami was taken in a procession on a bleeding; when the wound heals naturally, the crust will
palanquin just like a deity in a temple. More surprising to fall off by itself. Further, if there is a fruit in the tree, and
him was the fact that the devotees walked backward in when it is ripe and falls, it is very sweet. But if you pluck it
SWAMI AND ME
when it is unripe you are wasting the fruit because it will

not be sweet. Thus, for everything, time has to be right.
So, this is the right time for you."
From then on, the divine romance continued with
increasing visits to Swami and interactions with Swami.
The main attraction which pulled us to the lotus feet of
Bhagavan is His unique and universal message of truth
and love which go straight in to one's heart. I have been
interested in studying scriptures from my early childhood.
But only Swami made me understand spirituality very
clearly. Before exposure to Him, it was more like
intellectual gymnastics rather than practical experience.
The Divine Wills a Family of Doctors

Swami is the master of time - past, present and future;
and we should carefully listen to His every syllable and
letter because He mixes the past, present, and future,
leading to our confusion at times. During one of those
Every detail was directed by Him...
early visits when I wanted to take leave I said as usual,
"Swami I am leaving". He said, "coming and going, performing the wedding of my first daughter in June
coming and going". Now I understand what He meant 1995 in Brindavan, Whitefield. Swami decided the place
at that time because of my frequent visits to the and date of marriage and guided us all the way. Before I
ashram recently. left Prasanthi Nilayam I asked Swami when I should come.
Swami said, “June 9” which was the day after the
wedding. I unperturbedly said, "I will come on June 9th if
it is your divine command". Swami laughed and told me
to come three days before marriage. Accordingly, my wife
and I arrived at Brindavan three days prior to wedding.
Friends like Col. Jogarao were joking at us, "Oh! The chief
guests are coming". Though they were joking, it was true
because Swami was the chief organizer who made all the
arrangements like menu, military band, and
accommodation for the guests, and arrangements in the
wedding hall. Swami took personal interest in every
minute detail including what tablecloth to be used and
how the servants were to be dressed and whether they
should wear gloves and how the guests should be
Blessings for four generations... properly treated. One day He scolded me for not visiting
and greeting the bridegroom party housed in the
Also, interestingly when Swami called our family for
guesthouse of Swami. Because when I am with Swami I
interview one time He introduced us to a different group
am oblivious to everything else.
that we are all doctors. At that time, only my wife and
myself were doctors; but my two daughters who were Prior to the wedding, even while I was going with Swami
not even in their teens, were also included by Swami as in the car He was discussing every minute detail of the
doctors. However, Swami's words always come true and wedding arrangements. On the wedding day, Swami was
now both of my daughters are practicing physicians sitting in the hall throughout the ceremony and was
married to physician husbands. guiding us at every step. He was explaining to the people
sitting around Him about the spiritual significance of the
Blessings for Daughter's Wedding Hindu wedding. He was very loving and materialized the
Swami showered His grace on our family on several
mangala sootra (sacred wedding necklace) and came to
occasions but we can never forget one special occasion
the stage and blessed the bride, bridegroom and whole
for which we are all indebted to Him forever. It was Swami
family and posed for the photographs.
THE SOURCE, SWEETMESS AND SUSTENANCE OF MY LIFE - MY SAI
Hyderabad. When His grace comes, there is a torrential

downpour. There were many instances of His divine
healing of various physical ailments in different family
members. I would like to share some of them here.
Swami Saves Family Members

My second daughter who is a practicing obstetrician and
gynecologist, during her teenage years after her return to
USA from pilgrimage trip to Puttaparthi, developed a
high fever with toxicity. We consulted an infectious
disease specialist who diagnosed it to be typhoid pending
the blood cultures and started her on an intravenous
antibiotics. Meanwhile both my daughters started
Swami materialising the mangal sutra praying to Swami because this has a major implication in
USA. If this were typhoid my daughter won't be allowed
to come to school for many months and the whole family
will be investigated for a carrier state. To our pleasant
surprise as they were finishing their prayers we got a
call from the laboratory that blood cultures were
negative for any bacterial growth. When we made our
next trip to see Swami, He confirmed how He cured
her serious illness. We were all moved to tears with His
Love.
A marriage truly in heaven!
After the wedding when it was time for food

arrangements, Swami came and personally gave
directions about food items to be served and showered
an abundance of love and blessings on the invitees. He
gave all of us bountiful gifts in the form of clothes and
jewelry but the greatest gift was His motherly love. When
my daughter was 10 years old He had promised that He
would arrange the wedding procession with a military
band. He fulfilled the promise by arranging a wonderful
military band during the wedding. He also took part in
Narayana Seva which immediately followed the wedding Dr. Reddy with his parents in a private interview
by serving the food and giving the clothes to the few
My father had acute and severe back pain in 1996 when
fortunate souls with His divine hands before the rest of us
he was seventy-five years old and he was severely
followed His example.
incapacitated. In desperation my mother summoned me
My son-in-law who was new to Swami did not realize to come and help them in this critical situation. I
what he was getting and was naive in his behavior. But immediately started from Los Angeles and came to
Swami, the great divine master, made him feel very Bangalore where my father was brought by ambulance
comfortable and began attracting him slowly by His from Puttaparthi. The MRI of the spine was done which
nectarine pure divine love. Then there was a reception showed two huge disc protrusions impinging on the
party arranged in Hyderabad after the marriage. I was not nerves causing excruciating pain. We consulted an
willing to go for the same. But Swami persuaded me to go orthopedic surgeon in Bangalore, a Neuro-Radiologist
and even made arrangements for our family to be and a Neuro Surgeon in USA. They all recommended that
received in Hyderabad airport and shown around Swami's he should go through surgery right away to relieve the
temple 'Sivam' and the famous Kalyana Mantapam in
SWAMI AND ME
pressure on the nerves. When I asked Swami He advised answer from the Lord of Truth that He is in all the four
the surgery to be cancelled and gave the best states of waking, dreaming, dreamless and turiya
medicine: materialized vibhuthi from His Divine (transcendental) states. Thereby He revealed that He is
hands to be rubbed at the site of the pain. Needless to the Supreme attributeless and formless Brahman,
say the pain improved remarkably and till to-date he everything, everywhere, forever. For all the grace and love
is able to function well without any neurological Swami showers on us I felt we never did enough service to
deficit. In contrast at the same time, I had a forty-six year the Lord. In my humble way I expressed to our dear Lord
old patient in my practice with an identical problem seen Sai my desire to do service by translating His discourses
in 1996. She went through neuro-surgery in USA and was on the life of Shirdi Sai from Telugu into English. However,
later permanently disabled and had to quit her job. This Sai Shiva gracefully admonished me with the revelation
shows how our sweet Lord is better than the best neuro- that real service is to find out "Who am I." I pleaded with
surgeons. the Lord about the difficulty of this path, because of the
There was a major health crisis in February of 2000 when Vasanas of several life times, standing as obstacles.
my father had convulsive seizures and we had to call Bhagavan kindly encouraged me by saying that one can
paramedics for emergency medical attention. He was get rid of the darkness of a cave prevailing for thousands
unresponsive and was taken to the closest emergency of years in an instant by lighting a lamp. So does the light
room immediately. He had extensive medical work up and of wisdom dawn on us with His grace and our sincere
the neurologist feared he might be having a brain tumor. yearning.
However the final diagnosis was encephalopathy due to My chosen deity was Shirdi
electrolyte imbalance namely severe hyponatremia. By Sai before I came to Swami.
Bhagavan's grace and blessings to our pleasant surprise So in my first encounter
all this was corrected by intravenous fluids and he was with Swami I told him that
discharged home within 24 hours. When the paramedics during my worship I offer
were attending on my father, my mother ran to the shrine flowers first to Shirdi Sai and
room where she was loudly and frantically calling for then to Sathya Sai. Swami in
Swami's help. During our next trip Swami was telling His large-heartedness said it
us how my mother was holding on to His feet and is all right to do that
crying for help. Again this shows His omnipresence because all names and
and prompt loving response to the devotee's prayers. forms are His. In fact He said
In 1985, I was I could put flowers on my
involved in an own head because I am also
auto accident in Divine. Another time Swami
California, USA conveyed a similar message
when a large 30- when I was going in the car with Him. Many devotees
foot-truck hit my throw flowers on Swami's car and one western lady
car. The car was devotee was trying to throw a flower on Swami's car but
badly damaged, because she was weak it fell on herself and it did not
but I didn't have reach the car. Swami looked at me and said, "See the poor
even a minor lady. She wanted to worship Swami with a flower but it
injury. When I fell on herself; without knowing she did the right thing
saw Swami in because she herself is Divine".
Prashanthi Nilayam, He narrated the details of the During our first visit to Prasanthi Nilayam my wife was
accident and how He saved me from the danger. In seriously ill with dysentery and could not come for
addition, He remarked that I remembered Him only after darshan for three days. I felt she had to be taken to
the accident, but not at the time of the collision. Bangalore to be hospitalized but by Bhagavan's grace
Compassionate Lord! He remembers and protects us all she recovered and came for darshan on the fourth day
the time, though we forget Him at times. and sat on a chair along with disabled people. That
day Swami came to me while sitting in the darshan
Swami's Personal Lessons
Once when I asked Swami that if life is a dream, whether line on the sand and said, "Your wife has come".
He is also a part of the dream. Right away came the I did not realize that she came for darshan till I went
THE SOURCE, SWEETMESS AND SUSTENANCE OF MY LIFE - MY SAI
home to my room. I wondered how He knew her among dream and said what we experience in the daytime is
thousands of devotees recognizing her presence. As He daydreaming like the night dreams we have in the night.
says, God knows everything but pretends as if He knows After our session when I was with V.K. Narasimhan who is
nothing; whereas man knows nothing but pretends as if a strong vaishnavite and follower of Ramanujam, he
he knows everything. Another time when we were in the expressed strongly that the Advaita philosophy of
interview room, there were many devotees and one of the Sankara has ruined India. He said, "Who will be interested
men was trying to introduce a young boy as the son of his in God where all the flowers are of the same color and
brother devotee. Even before he introduced, Swami said there is no variety of the flowers, and who will be
he knows everyone and confirmed the statement made interested to see the empty screen when there is no
above. projection of the beautiful pictures on the screen?" I just
During my first interview I listened to him and kept
gave a book for Swami to quiet though I did not agree
bless with His signature and with his views.
right at that time lights went The next day again Swami
off and there was no called both of us and I
electricity. I wondered how innocently told Swami about
He could see and sign. the discussion we had in the
Meanwhile, He looked previous evening and I
straight into my eyes and wanted Swami to tell me the
said, "I can see even in truth. Swami replied clearly,
darkness a small ant "I am telling you the absolute
crawling at a distance". That truth that experience of
time I was wearing glasses oneness is alone real and
and Swami pointed out how everything else is an illusion
His vision is better than mine like a dream. Don't be
even without glasses. I said, i n f l u e n c e d b y V. K .
"Swami, that is because of Narasimhan's viewpoint
your Divine power". But which is applicable to him
Swami corrected me saying but not the highest truth."
that He does not use His On another occasion I was
Divine power for such with Swami in his house in
personal things but it is Poornachandra during a
because of His disciplined session when Swami poured
way of living and eating. He said I could also have similar lot of love on me.
capacity if I also lead a disciplined life like Him. I exclaimed, "Swami, let this bond of love be for ever, and I
Let me relate an incident, which indicates Bhagavan's want to be born again in Your next avatar to love You and
spontaneous revelation of His divinity in a casual serve You". Swami said, "That is not correct; your aim
conversation. One time we expressed concern to Swami should be to have this as your last birth and you should
that the small amount of food He takes cannot sustain a desire for no rebirth. How can you be sure that you can be
human being and prayed to Him to increase His caloric close to Swami like this in your next birth?" I also told
intake. My father remarked that like Yogis, Swami Swami, "Let this relationship of love be permanent and
perhaps derives energy directly from the five never changing". Swami said, "Why should you have
elements. Spontaneous was the Divine rebuff that the such doubt? I am a powerful magnet and always will
five elements depend on Him for their sustenance! attract a pure needle and metal. If metal is not
attracted that is because of the rust and dust covering
The Truth, from the Lord of Truth
When in Brindavan Whitefield Swami used to call me the metal. So keep yourself pure and your relationship
along with late Mr. V.K. Narasimhan, Sanathana Sarathi will be the same forever".
editor and on many occasions He used to talk about When I said, "Swami, let me have prapthi (fulfillment) like
spiritual topics with us. One day Swami was talking this". He said, "If I want I can create prapthi; I can make the
highest advaita because He mentioned everything is a vessel bigger so that it can receive more grace. It means
SWAMI AND ME
that Divine grace can transcend all spiritual laws".

Another time when I was going with Swami in the car,
Swami said, "Emi Samacharam (what news?); say
something". I said, "Swami, please grant me the boon that
I will always remember your divinity and never be deluded
by your world-bewitching maya". Swami said, "Do you
think you are greater than the sages like Vasishta,
Viswamitra and Jamadagni who were also deluded by
the maya of the Lord? Be always alert."
Miracles in Kodai
In 1994 Swami invited me and my wife as His guests to
Kodaikanal. During that time we had many wonderful
experiences including going on a picnic with Swami.
Swami plucking plums from bougainvillea
transcend the pairs of opposites like heat and cold. When

we went for picnic with Swami there was a big caravan
that went with Him. When we got down I was wearing
my sports shoes and then Swami pointed to them; then I
got the hint and right away I removed my shoes.
Consequently I didn't have a fall because of the floor that
was slippery due to soft pine tree branches on the
ground. Some of the students who were wearing shoes
fell because of the slippery ground. Following Swami's
With the Lord at the sylvan Kodai hills hint saved me from the fall. During this trip Swami gave
me five chances to speak in front of Him and He was
During one of the days, Swami went to one devotee's telling how though I was in USA I was good in Sanskrit
house and plucked two plums from a bougainvillea and that I learned devotion from my mother.
vine and gave them to two of the students to eat. I felt
But during my last talk Swami cut me short suddenly with
I wish I could have them. We were resting in a house
a sharp remark when I quoted a Bhaja Govindam sloka
arranged by Swami that evening and when we woke
about how man wastes his energy during his childhood
up next morning, there were two plums on the
playing with toys and when he is youth with sensual
nightstand next to the bed. Myself and my wife
pleasures. Swami felt it was not proper to say such things
shared them both and enjoyed the delicious plums.
in front of students. However, late Mr. Sampath, V.C. of
Then we enquired if anybody had left them there, but
Swami's University supported me saying that it was Adi
nobody was aware of the plums. Then I realized how
Shankara's composition. Still Swami did not agree. Then I
Swami fulfills even minor desires of His children without
realized that Swami was trying to crush my ego which
even asking. Swami gave me a chance to share this
was showing its head because everybody including
incident in Trayee Brindavan with the students after our
Swami was praising my talks. Swami is thus an ego-
return from the Kodaikanal trip.
crushing machine because for spiritual seekers ego is the
During this trip Swami gave me a chance to sing to Him greatest obstacle.
on two occasions. When in Kodaikanal it was cold in the
How blessed and fortunate we are to have this beautiful,
mornings and I used to wear a sweater. Swami pointed
Sweet and loving Lord to protect us and guide us! Let us
out my sweater and mentioned how He was simply
make use of this unique chance to adore Him, Worship
wearing a robe without sweater. From that day onwards I
Him, practice His teachings and merge in Him, Who is our
did not wear sweater learning a lesson from Swami to
Source.
THE BLISS OF HIS PRESENCE
THE BLISS
OF HIS PRESENCE
by Mr. Maharaj Krishen Kaw
Mr. Maharaj Krishen Kaw, IAS, has held many

prestigious positions in the state and central
governments of India including Principal Secretary to
Chief Minister, Himachal Pradesh; Joint Secretary
(Public Sector) in the Department of Defence
Mr. Maharaj Krishen Kaw
Production (1990-93); Additional Secretary in the with Swami in Prasanthi Nilayam
Department of Revenue (1993-94) and Secretary, Soon, the cavalcade arrived. The car was a white
Ministry of Civil Aviation (1997-98). His last Ambassador and Baba was seated in the middle of the
assignment from which he superannuated was back seat, with one person on either side. Devotees
Secretary, Department of Education, Ministry of surrounded the car and tried to persuade Baba to
Human Resource Development. He is also a keen poet descend for a few minutes. Baba finally relented and
and has penned five volumes of poetry in English and stood briefly in the car itself with the door open, so that
two in Hindi. people could have His darshan. Before the devotees could
IAS (Indian Administrative Service) officers are also realize what had happened, Baba had gone inside, the
human beings. It is but natural that quite a few of them door closed and the car raced away towards Shimla.
have been attracted to the Sai Avathar. Baba himself told We were all disappointed. My wife especially, as she was
me once that there was an intimate connection between in the bhajan group a few yards away and had not even
him and the IAS. Many persons who are serving him are or got a fleeting glimpse of the Avathar. When we reached
have been in the IAS. Sri Chakravarthy, earlier Registrar, home, another story unfolded itself. My police orderly
Sri Sathya Sai University and now Secretary of the Central had picked up Anurag (my one-year old son) in his
Trust is one. Sri S.V. Giri, former Vice-chancellor of the arms and was standing by the roadside, when
University is another. Sri P. Sitapati, former PRO is a third. Swami's car stopped, Swami came out and placed His
Baba says half in jest: "The same three letters form both hand on the child's head to bless him.
SAI and IAS." That was the beginning of a series of miracles with special
A Special Blessing for Anurag focus on this child. All along, one could sense the active
My first darshan of the Avathar took place in 1973, when I interest Baba took in his welfare, education, health,
was Deputy Commissioner of Solan district in Himachal marriage and so on, till this day. Anurag also has a special
Pradesh. Baba was enroute from Chandigarh to Shimla love for Swami and wherever he goes he is soon
and was passing through Solan town. The local devotees discovered as a natural leader of the local bhajan
were electrified into activity and organized an impromptu mandali.
halt for him. The S. P. (Superintendent of Police) and I My daughter Iti has many great qualities. The only defect
stood at the main crossing to ensure that Baba was not she has is her temper. She gets irritated too quickly. Then
mobbed. the decibel count of her voice increases sharply, her
tongue acquires pungency. Whenever she meets Baba,
SWAMI AND ME
He tells her the same thing: "You are a very good girl. Baba gives much practical advice to each member of the
Control your temper." It has come to a situation where family. When my mother once threatened to come and
she has become highly sensitized to the weakness. And live in the Ashram, He said, "No need to come here,
she tries. I am sure that one day she will overcome the Amma. Your duty is to serve your husband. Do that." And
weakness. she did it till the day my father died.
God Gives Concentration How The Divine Works!

My son Anurag is a I would like to narrate a few miraculous events, which
wonderful person. took place in my own experience. One evening, I was at
His sole problem the Delhi airport, waiting for a flight to Hyderabad. The
used to be a flight had been delayed and I had a few hours to kill. After
disinclination to walking up and down for some time, I thought I would
study. In Shimla, we request for Baba's help.
would often see him I sent an inward prayer to Swami, "Baba! Please create
looking at the some drama. Let my waiting period be enlivened
deodars outside for hours, attention not at all on the somehow." As I opened my eyes, I noticed a young man
open book before him. In 1988, my wife complained to pushing a wheelchair, in which an old lady sat. He
Swami, "Baba! Please do something to tighten his obviously had a problem. I saw him go from functionary
concentration." Swami said: "Why can't he remember? He to functionary, but no one seemed to be in a mood to help
remembers film songs all night. There is nothing wrong him. I decided to intervene. As he passed by, I called out,
with his brains. He does not pay attention. That is all." "Excuse me, Sir! Do you have any problem?" He was
Anurag took the hint. Today (Nov, 2001), he is studying obviously relieved. He was from Bulgaria. His mother had
for the M.Ch. programme in Cardiac Surgery. cancer. He had brought her to India for treatment. He
My wife Raj is a tremendous person found that the pedestal of the
in every respect. Baba diagnosed wheelchair had broken loose.
"too much attachment" as her Without it, his mother could not
malady. "She worries too much keep her feet on a pedestal as the
about you and the children." Over wheelchair moved. He wanted
the years, she has acquired a lot of someone to repair the pedestal.
calm. Now she complains that she Where would I find a repairman in
cannot meditate because she can't the airport departure lounge? The
concentrate. problem seemed insoluble. I
Baba says: "Why meditate? Do decided to try the constable in-
your work. Only don't distinguish charge of security, who was x-
between work and workship. raying the hand-baggage. 'No, Sir',
Don't say that this is my work and he said, "There is no such facility of
t h a t i s G o d ' s w o r k . Ta k e repairs available in the airport."
everything as God's work only. I turned back. Suddenly his

That is real meditation." companion who was looking at the
THE BLISS OF HIS PRESENCE
incoming baggage shouted, 'Sir, wait!' I was tensed. What A man standing next to me whipped out a railway time-
now? The cop held an offending piece of baggage that table. "You will get a train for Puttaparthi at such and such
had crossed his x-ray screen. "What is this?" he time tomorrow afternoon," he volunteered and wrote
demanded. A meek looking person claimed ownership. out the details on a piece of paper for him. Another man
"Please open the bag. Sir, we have to search it." asked, “Where are you staying?" "I have no place", the
The man was puzzled, but complied. The bag was young man admitted. The man said he knew a good
unzipped. From its entrails, the cop took out what looked hotel, reasonably priced, located near the railway station.
like a tool-kit. "What is this?" he wanted to know. The man "And as I am passing that way, I can give you and your
said, "It is my set of tools." "Does it belong to you?" the cop mother a lift up to the hotel."
asked. "Yes", said the man. "Can you use these tools?" the Our flight was announced and left some minutes
cop enquired. "Yes," said the man. "Can you set this thereafter. Later, I learnt from my friend that the
wheelchair right?" asked the cop. Again the mand said, Bulgarian had been given an interview by Swami, and the
"Yes", after looking at the pedestal in the young man's mother's cancer was cured.
hand.
Overwhelming Omniscience
The man suited the action to the word and within a few A dramatic instance
minutes had set the wheelchair right. The cop gave him o f B a b a ' s
the bag and the man moved ahead. When I looked for omniscience was
him a few minutes later, he had vanished! exhibited one day,
Meanwhile, the youth had struck a conversation with when in a long
me. I wanted to know which doctor was going to treat interview with Him
his mother. "No, not a doctor", he said, "All doctors we had exhausted
have said there is no treatment". "Then where are you all the family
going?” I asked. He was looking for one Sathya Sai subjects. As Baba
Baba. showed no impatience, our courage grew. My mother
I was intrigued. He was going to Sai. "Who is he", I asked said, "Baba, there is a neighbour of ours. He has got
him, now enjoying the fun. "How did you come to know paralysis recently..." Before she could finish, Baba said,
about Him?" He said he had friends who had been to "Yes, Amma. A sad case. He lost his young son when he
India. They said that Christ had been reborn in India and was only 25. The trauma was so much, he developed
He could heal incurable diseases. So he had started for hypertension. He has had a paralytic attack, but he will
India. Did he know where Baba lived? "No", he admitted, recover. Only his right leg and hand will remain affected
"But they said when you reach Hyderabad, someone will for life."
tell you." I asked, "Swami, Mr. X has been diagnosed for cancer of
I looked in my purse. A few months back, Baba had in an the prostrate." "Yes", said Baba, "They operated upon him
interview given me one of His materializations - a visiting but the cancer was discovered too late. They have
card with His photograph and full address. It was a removed the cancer, but the roots are still there. I will give
treasured possession, but did I need it? I decided to give vibhuti...."
the card to him. On the reverse, I wrote a letter to a friend, Then I said, "Mr. Y is embroiled in a litigation."
"If you are in Puttaparthi, do guide this gentleman." "Why are you pleading for him?" Baba replied, "If he had
SWAMI AND ME
not been a fool, he would not have got involved with that
lady. He has only himself to blame. Anyway, let him not
worry. Nothing will come out of the case." A remarkable
illustration of instant communication and divine
intercession in three unconnected cases of strangers!
Further Life for Father

Let me now narrate the story of my father's illness in
1976, which really brought us into intimate contact with
the Sai miracle for the first time. My father had jaundice
which had been diagnosed as infective hepatitis and
treated as such by very good physicians in Delhi. His Mr. Kaw with his family
in a private interview with Swami
doctor declared that he was cured and could travel to
successful. Five minutes later, he had cardiac arrest. He
Dharamsala, where I was posted then as Deputy
was revived. He had respiratory failure and was put on a
Commissioner.
ventilator. He had black motions. His kidneys stopped.
Hardly a month had passed, when suddenly Papaji
One by one, all his systems collapsed and came back.
(affectionate name for father) developed high fever with
Doctors said he might survive, but he would be an invalid
severe rigor. His temperature shot up to 105° and he
all his life. Two months later, he was attending office! He
shivered so much we were frightened out of our wits. The
lived a near-normal life, except for the usual symptoms of
local doctors first thought it was malaria, then viral fever,
old age, for another 25 years.
and finally, some unknown dreaded disease which they
My mother had promised herself that if Papaji came out
would not name. One day, Dr. Jha, the Chief Medical
of the ordeal alive, she would take him to Baba at
Officer took me aside and said, "I strongly advise you to
Puttaparthi. What with one thing and another, the visit
remove your father to Delhi at once. After three days, you
kept on getting postponed. In 1988, we finally went to
may not be in a position to shift him, even if you wish to."
Puttaparthi. As soon as Swami saw my mother, He
Overnight, all arrangements were made. We rushed by
exclaimed, "At last, you have come. For years you had
ambulance to Pathankot, boarded the train and were
the desire to bring father here. Now you have made it!
received with an ambulance at the railway station, Delhi.
How is he now?", thus confirming that it was indeed He
Papaji was admitted at once to the AIIMS (All India
who had answered my mother's prayers in 1976.
Institute of Medical Sciences) where the doctors
Bhagavan is today the focal point of our family. His
struggled with his daily rises and falls of temperature.
portrait adorns every room. He is the central topic of our
On the third day, the doctors held a conference. I was
spiritual discussions. He is the resident of our hearts.
told, "Your father has hepatitis. We suspect it is
- Courtesy: 'Sai Prem',
obstructive hepatitis. If we operate on him, his chances
Mathrubhumi's supplement in 2001
are 2%. If we don't, he will move into an irreversible coma.
Please decide."
Naturally, I chose surgery. We prayed to Lord Sai day and

night. When he was taken to the OT, Mr. Chaman Lal
smeared some vibhuti on his forehead. The operation was
THAT LOVE CANNOT BE DUPLICATED
certain times; God is a part of every moment. God is not
LOVE THAT separate from anything; He is Omnipresent because

nothing is too small for Him. He is in everything. From the
CANNOT BE DUPLICATED smallest need to the biggest emergency, we experience
by Ms. Lakshmi S. Menon
Swami's watchful and loving care that manifests in the
most practical of ways. To our amazement, we realise that
Ms. Lakshmi S. Menon is a former student of the God wants to be totally involved in our lives. He wants to
Anantapur Campus of Sri Sathya Sai University and help us in every way; it is we who distance Him because
currently is engaged in service activities at Bhagavan's sometimes we think we should not 'trouble' Swami for
ashram in Prasanthi Nilayam. silly matters. The Omnipotent and Omnipresent One
cannot be troubled! The Omniscient One is aware of
Many moments make up a life - some happy, some sad,
everything, but He likes us to pray so that we become
some remarkable, some mundane. But there are certain
aware of what we truly want and through our
moments which stand out in our lives because they are
dependence on Him, we build up this sweet relationship
moments filled with the Presence of God. What then of
with the Divine.
moments when we experience the tender love and
infinite compassion of a living, loving God who showers “How can I rest?”
us with His Love and Grace in His physical presence and During my days as a
envelopes us with His Divine protection when we are student in Anantapur,
away from Him physically? Such moments are many in more than a decade
the lives of the devotees of Bhagavan; however, the bond ago, when the holidays
that He shares with His students is something truly approached, we girls
unique. used to face some
problems getting
confirmed railway
reservations, especially
for students from far-
off places states of
India like West Bengal,
Delhi and the North-east. Those days, in the eighties,
direct trains were not that many, and railway ticketing
was not computerised. Typically, our journeys took a
couple of days. From the sheltered environs of the
Anantapur campus, to suddenly enter the hustle-bustle
of cities like Bangalore, Madras or Calcutta was like a
Sri Sathya Sai University's Anantapur minor culture-shock!
college for women
But while travelling, we used to concretely experience
God is a Part of Our Every Moment Swami's presence. People would mysteriously appear to
When we enter the portals of Bhagavan's holy University,
help us on our way and then just as mysteriously
the Sri Sathya Sai University, either at the women's college
disappear when we turned around to thank them.
at Anantapur or at the men's campuses at Puttaparthi or
Meanwhile our confidence got further boosted when
Brindavan, it is as though we have entered a new world, a
once we heard of Bhagavan's response to the words of
tranquil world, untouched by the noise and turmoil of the
some devotees. These people, well-meaning no doubt,
world outside. In these sanctuaries of Bhagavan's
told Swami that now that the students were all going
immense love, we learn many lessons. To my mind, the
home for holidays, Swami could take some rest, finally.
most important lesson we learn is that spirituality is not
Swami often used to declare those days that His only
something separate from daily living. In fact, the way of
property consisted of His students and that He spent 75%
the Spirit is the base on which the way of the world truly
of His time with them, because all His hopes for the world
rests. God is not to be worshipped on certain days, or at
SWAMI AND ME
rested on His students. Swami's reply to these people was assembled and triumphantly went to claim our
very thrilling for us. He said, “How can I take rest now? I reserved berths. I tried to ask the TTE who this 'superior'
have to go with each and every one of them, travel officer was, and how did he send the message and so on,
with them and see that they reach their homes safely. but he was extremely vague and after checking our
So how can I rest?” The following incident stands tickets, disappeared. We had told no one of our plight.
testimony to this wonderful statement of the Lord. Also, we would never have known that this arrangement
had been made for us, and whom to approach to avail of
Superior Love at Play
It was the spring of 1992. We were a group of 21, this facility.
travelling from Anantapur to Kerala. Many of us had But for the fact of having got into the 'wrong' coach we
completed our courses of study, and so we had a lot of would not have met this TTE either. In this world, even
luggage too. I still do not know how it happened; now, it when you plead for help, not many people bother, or even
would be an unthinkable risk to take, but on the day of if they do, it seldom comes free. But in this case, it was
our home-ward journey, we had only 'current' tickets and sudden, unexpected help that came unasked, in our time
no reservation. We boarded the train at mid-morning of need. We had been anxious, but perhaps, in the
from Anantapur station and we would all be reaching exuberant and trusting faith of the young had truly
different parts of Kerala the next day. The train came, we surrendered to Swami. We believed that somehow things
got into the carriage that came in front of us, many of us would be taken care of. We never imagined it would be
stuck like refugees near the wash-rooms; but the done in such a royal way though!
resilience of youth did not deter our high spirits! We
Self-confidence is Sai-confidence
thought we would handle the Train Ticket Examiner (TTE) The story does not end here. I was to travel till
when he came and not worry till then. Cross the bridge Trivandrum, but I had to get down at a small station
when you come to it! After some time, to our dismay we called Alwaye, and then board another train, since this
learnt that this particular coach would be going a one wasn't going all the way. I got down and went to the
relatively shorter distance with this train, and then it
would get attached to some other train, at a station that
we would reach at mid-night. So we decided to get down
at Dharmavaram railway station and relocate to another
coach that would go all the way to our destination.
With tons of luggage, it was indeed a daunting task. As
planned, we got down at Dharmavaram, and forming a
human 'chain', were passing on pieces of luggage quite a
further way off, when a TTE accosted me and demanded
what we were up to. I had really no time to explain, so I
mumbled something incoherent and continued to pass
luggage. The train would be leaving any moment. He
watched us for some time and then he asked me, a little
impatiently, “Are you students from Sai Baba's college at
Anantapur?” On hearing Swami's name from a total
stranger, I stopped in my tracks and paid attention. Then
he went on. “See madam, we got a message from our
'superior officer' that a group of girl-students from Sai
Baba's college at Anantapur would be coming by this
train and that we were to keep 21 berths ready for
them at Dharmavaram.” As I listened open-mouthed,
He went on, “If you don't care to claim those berths
right now, I am going to dispose them off to others.”
There was nothing else to do. After that we quickly re- Swami distributing pens to the final year students
THAT LOVE CANNOT BE DUPLICATED
natural to Swami. That the sun should rise every day and
send beams of energy to sustain the earth is a great
miracle. But we take it for granted. We do not question
why there should be life only on Earth and not on Venus
or on Mars. We do not stop to marvel at the wonder of it.
We simply believe and it becomes a part of our psyche
and we accept it. So too it is with Bhagavan Baba. His
devotees, after having experienced Him, believe in Him
and so for them, nothing is impossible for Him. Why talk
of the para-normal or the super-natural?
In the crass materialistic and divisive world that we
inhabit, what could be a greater miracle than someone
providing free medicare, educare and socio-care of the
Sai Mother with the girl students
of the Anantapur campus highest quality to thousands of people, with no strings
ladies' waiting room that was next to a small cafeteria.

The room rapidly filled up with many women, but after a
while, I heard some commotion and then to my surprise, I
saw that people were hastily leaving en-masse. On
enquiring, I was told, some rioting had suddenly erupted
in the town, on account of a religious issue and a violent
mob was approaching the railway station. I was stuck
there, all alone with my entire luggage and nowhere to
go. I could hear the mob coming nearer. I just quietly
sat inside, and strangely, I did not feel any sense of
panic. It was one of those times when I was sure
Swami would protect me. So I waited. I heard sounds of
shattering glass next door, and shouts and yells. After
some time there was silence. Slowly, people started
coming back. I too got up and went to investigate. I
found out then that the mob of rioters had come till the
cafeteria next door, smashed the windows and so on and
then simply retreated back the way they came. Some
“invisible hand” had made them turn back and go away
from where I was sitting all alone, relying on the Lord
without whose Will, not even a blade of grass can move.
The same Lord, who had assumed the guise of a
attached, no questions asked about caste, creed, religion,
“superior officer” of the Railways, the one who
nationality, race, or any such consideration? Need is the
mysteriously answered unasked, unwritten petitions, was
only criterion here. That is why, from the 'naxalite' regions
at work here too.
of interior Andhra to the parched city of Chennai, Swami's
The Inimitable Divine Drinking Water Supply Project reaches out with the same
When you live in the proximity of the Divine, miracles are concern of alleviating human distress.
very common-place. After a while, you even take them for
There are people who try to prove scientifically, that this is
granted. Once I was asked by a priest of a Church, who
all very clever trickery, that there is some 'catch'
was a visiting examiner while I was studying for B.Ed at
somewhere and certain TV programmes even have so-
Trivandrum, whether Sai Baba's miracles are true. Does He
called magicians reduplicating the creation of vibhuti, in
really create things? And what I told him then was,
front of small children, in order to 'enlighten' them. It is
miracles are not miracles in Swami's presence, but very
SWAMI AND ME
typical of science to destroy the essence of phenomena was sitting with a friend behind a girl holding a tray.
and to focus its narrow-minded gaze at the 'how' of Swami came near us, picked a whole fistful of
things and never on the 'why'. That is why very often, they chocolates and showered them merrily all over us and
miss out on the bigger picture or miss the most obvious walked away. After He had gone quite a distance, I
facts that are clear to the layman. Hence, these so-called found this friend suddenly weeping uncontrollably.
rationalists do not even pause to realise, that Swami's All I knew was that she wasn't well; she had some eye
vibhuti has certain qualities which can never be ailment. And then she told me what had just occurred.
duplicated. The vibhuti of our beloved Lord has She had some problem in her eye, due to which she would
healed, cured, 'cancelled' cancers, warded off see black spots in her line of sight. A doctor at home had
calamities, averted accidents, made the dumb speak, advised minor surgery, but she was terrified of being
the crippled walk, the blind see and the same vibhuti operated upon. When Swami came for Darshan, these
manifested at one time can taste bitter to one and black spots in her eye covered Him too and she could not
sweet to another. It would be interesting to see a re- see Him clearly. She was very remorseful at this and that is
duplication of all this, and that too outside the confines when a toffee thrown casually and playfully by Swami hit
of a laboratory, without controlled conditions. Swami her eye and dislodged her glasses. She was in tears but
cannot be copied because of Who He Is and Why He has after a while, she wiped her eye, still throbbing with the
come. direct hit from Swami, when to her amazement she
Finally, miracles are natural to Swami, because they are an discovered she could see clearly! The black spots that had
expression of His immense, all-encompassing love for plagued her vision for weeks had simply melted away!
suffering humanity. It is His infinite compassion that Life with Sai - Journey Extraordinaire
gushes forth as holy ash and chains and rings and This is what Swami is Sweet, Simple, Natural,
talismans or a golden Unostentatious, Jovial,
siva lingam in response and Compassionate
to the prayers of beyond compare. He
millions of devotees on watches over us, as He
Sivaratri day. However, often says, like how the
to comprehend even a eye-lids guard the eyes.
minute fraction of this And yet, He never
Divine phenomenon, expects anything back.
one has to have a heart He used to tell us about
that can believe in the the value of gratitude;
possibility of Love in a of showing it to our
loveless world. Such a alma m a t e r, our
Love that seeks no parents. The only thing
returns, which is He ever expects from
gentle, immediate, patient, forgiving and kind and His students is to bring a good name to Him and to be
radiates to all beings, human and animal and insect, ideals in society. His life is a silent saga of Love and our
irrespective of whether it is understood or not and very lives with Sai is a challenging journey of hope and love
often misunderstood by narrow human minds is towards a truly meaningful existence. Jai Sai Ram.
something that can only be experienced, never explained.
Another Sweet Moment - Courtesy: Mathrubhumi's “Divine Love”

To illustrate the simplicity of His Divine nature, I recall yet
another sweet moment from my student days. It is a
healing that comes to mind. Once we girl-students had all
come to Puttaparthi from Anantapur for Swami's Darshan
and those days, we were allowed to take trays of toffees if
it happened to be our birthday or some such occasion. I
SWAMI AND ME GET INSPIRED
than ordinary wheat but there was no wheat at all. And

suddenly he heard laughter from the clouds.
DO WE NEED CHALLENGES?
An old matured, seasoned farmer, one day, was very

angry with God though he was a great devotee. He said to
God in his morning prayer, "I have to tell it as it is enough
is enough! You don't understand even the ABC of
agriculture! When the rains are needed, there are no
rains; when the rains are not needed, You go on pouring
them. What nonsense is this? If you don't understand
agriculture, You can ask me I have devoted my whole life
to it. Give me one chance; the coming season, let me
decide and see, what happens." God laughed and He said, "Now what do you say?" The
It is an ancient story. In those days people had such trust farmer said, "I am puzzled, because there was no
that they could talk directly to God, and their trust was possibility of destruction and all that was helpful was
such that the answer was bound to happen. God said, provided. And the plants were growing so well, and the
"Okay, this season you decide!" So the farmer decided, crop was so green and so beautiful! What happened to
and he was very happy because whenever he wanted sun my wheat?" God said, "Because there was no danger you
there was sun, whenever he wanted rain there was rain, avoided all danger. Thus, it was impossible for the wheat
whenever he wanted clouds there were clouds. to grow. It needs challenges."
We all flee from pain and seek pleasure forgetting there

are times in everyone's life when something constructive
is born out of adversity. When things seem so bad it
prompts us to escape the burden and realize our
strength, either through creating healthy changes in our
outer world or transforming ourselves inside and
realizing our hidden potential.
Bhagavan Baba has explained the mystery of suffering to

us in the following words:
“When suffering comes, why do you estrange

yourselves from the Lord? He gives you suffering for
And he avoided all dangers, all the dangers that could be
your own good, for the advancement of your
destructive for his crops; he simply rejected them no
devotion. If suffering is granted, you seek peace, you
strong winds, no possibility of any destruction to his
search for knowledge of the mystery, you go to wise
crops. And his wheat started growing higher than
men to listen to aspects of the truth. Without
anybody had ever seen; it was going above a man's
suffering, sweetness cannot arise.”
height. And he was very happy.
- Adapted from East and West – Feb 2007
He thought, "Now I will show Him!" And then the crop
was cut and he was very puzzled. There was no wheat at Illustrations: Sai Aditya, SSSU
all just empty husks. What happened? Such big plants
plants big enough to have given wheat four times bigger
001 Heart2Heart - Radio-Sai's

Heart2Heart Radioe-Journal, June 2007
Sai's e-Journal, (Vol.2007
January 5, Issue 6)5, Issue 1)
(Vol. www.radiosai.org
www.radiosai.org 115
GET INSPIRED PPPPPPPPPP
afraid, for you are near, and no harm can come."
A BEAUTIFUL RELATIONSHIP
And the morning came, and there was a hill ahead, and
The young mother set her foot on the path of life. "Is this the children climbed and grew weary, and the mother
the long way?" she asked. And the guide said: "Yes, and was weary. But at all times she said to the children," A little
the way is hard. And you will be old before you reach the patience and we are there."
end of it. But the end will be better than the beginning." So the children climbed, and when they reached the top
But the young mother was happy, and she would not they said, "Mother, we would not have done it without
believe that anything could be better than these years. So you."
she played with her children, and gathered flowers for
them along the way, and bathed them in the clear
streams; and the sun shone on them, and the young
Mother cried, “Nothing will ever be lovelier than this."
And the mother, when she lay down at night looked up at
the stars and said, "This is a better day than the last, for my
children have learned fortitude in the face of hardness.
Yesterday I gave them courage. Today, I've given them
Then the night came, and the storm, and the path was strength."
dark, and the children shook with fear and cold, and the
And the next day came strange clouds which darkened
mother drew them close and covered them with her

the earth, clouds of war and hate and evil, and the
mantle, and the children said, "Mother, we are not

children groped and stumbled, and the mother said:
SWAMI AND ME A BEAUTIFUL RELATIONSHIP
"Look up. Lift your eyes to the light.” And the children
looked and saw above the clouds an everlasting glory,
and it guided them beyond the darkness. And that night
the Mother said, "This is the best day of all, for I have
shown my children God."
And the days went on, and the weeks and the months and
the years, and the mother grew old and she was little and
bent. But her children were tall and strong, and walked
with courage. And when the way was rough, they lifted everything to be by you side.
her, for she was as light as a feather; and at last they came
She is the place you came from, your first home; and she
to a hill, and beyond they could see a shining road and
provides the map you follow on the path to God. She is
golden gates flung wide. And mother said, "I have
your first love and nothing on earth can separate you
reached the end of my journey. And now I know the end is
from her. Not time, not space... not even death!
better than the beginning, for my children can walk
May we never take our mothers for granted.
alone, and their children after them."
Swami says, “It is impossible to describe the love that

And the children said, "You will always walk with us,
exists between the mother and her child…Once you
Mother, even when you have gone through the gates."
earn the blessings of your mother, you can achieve
And they stood and watched her as she went on alone,
anything… The world is sustained by the prayers of
and the gates closed after her. And they said: "We cannot
mothers. A woman's prayer is more powerful than a
see her but she is with us still. A Mother like ours is more
thousand prayers of men, because women are pure
than a memory. She is a living presence......."
and tender-hearted. Never cause displeasure to your
Your Mother is always with you…she is the tender care
mother, then God will help you in all your
that God nurtured you with; she is the cool hand on your
endeavours.”
brow when you're not well. Your Mother rejoices in your Illustrations: Sai Aditya, SSSU
laughter and watches over your every step, giving up – Heart2Heart Team

GET INSPIRED
taunt the two chief disciples. Thus the Buddha sent for
him and admonished him three times; still, he did not
IN THE COMPANY change. And again, the Buddha sent for Channa and said,
OF THE VIRTUOUS “Channa, these two noble monks are good friends to you;
you should associate with them and be on good terms
with them.”
While residing at the Jetavana Monastery, the Buddha
spoke this verse, with reference to Venerable Channa.
Channa was the attendant who accompanied Prince
Siddhartha when he renounced the world and left the
palace on horseback.
In spite of repeated admonitions and advice given by the

Buddha, Channa did as he pleased and continued to scold
and abuse the monks. The Buddha, knowing this, said
that Channa would not change during the Buddha's
lifetime but after his demise (Parinirvana) Channa would
surely change.
On the eve of his parinirvana, the Buddha called
When the prince attained Buddhahood, Channa also Venerable Ananda, his closest disciple to his bedside and
became a monk. As a monk, he was very arrogant and instructed him to impose the brahma-punishment
overbearing because of his close connection with the (Brahmadanoa) to Channa; i.e., for the monks to simply
Buddha. Channa used to say, “I came along with my ignore him and to have nothing to do with him.
master when he left the palace for the forest. At that
After the parinirvana of the Buddha, Channa learning
time, I was the only companion of my master and there
about the punishment from monks, felt a deep and bitter
was no one else. But now, Sariputta and Moggallana are
remorse for having done wrong and he fainted three
saying, 'We are the chief disciples' and are strutting about
times. Then he owned up his guilt to the monks and asked
the place.”
for pardon. From that moment, he changed his ways and
When the Buddha sent for him and admonished him for outlook. He also obeyed their instructions in his
his behaviour, he kept silent but continued to abuse and meditation practice and soon attained arahatship (that is,
the condition of the noble one who has attained the last
stage of the path).
The Meaning of the Story - True Friendship

This story highlights the invaluable significance of good
friendship. Sharing quality time with someone creates a
bond. In any relationship, these factors often give rise to
people identifying themselves as special in regard to each
SWAMI AND ME THE COMPANY OF THE VIRTUOUS
other. are a million frogs in it; but when the water runs dry, the
When the Buddha renounced his royal heritage, only frogs jump out of it. In the same way, when one has
Venerable Channa left with him, and he remained with power and wealth, people gather around him in this
the Buddha until the Buddha attained Nirvana. Thereby, world but as soon as he falls upon evil days and adversity
he shared an important stage in the Buddha's life, and stares him in the face, all his best friends leave him.”
also spent substantial time with him. Genuine friendships are not based on status, wealth,
Relying solely on this association with the Buddha, elitist association, or self-serving needs.
Venerable Channa developed a misguided notion of an According to the Buddha, good friends:
elitist self-importance. He made no attempt to earn his 1) Help in times of need.
status through self-effort.
2) Are prepared to even forfeit their lives.
The Buddha rebuked Venerable Channa three times for
3) Protect you from evil.
his improper behavior towards the two chief disciples.
4) Rejoice in your success, and honor those who praise
Then, the Buddha counseled him to forge a friendship
you.
with them, because they offered him genuine friendship.
The Buddha's definition of friendship is centered around
He had, however, become imprisoned in his own ego-
spiritual advancement. Genuine friends lead you towards
centric self-aggrandizement and ignored the Buddha. He
spiritual and dharmic progress. They always dissuade you
had lost sight of the goals of self-transformation, and
from wrong and harmful actions. Good friendships are
self-realization, which the Buddha's teachings were
based on selfless love, and incorporate human values.
imparting.
When we are able to understand these definitions of
He continued his stubborn defiance to the very end of the
good friendship and translate that into genuine
Buddha's earthly sojourn. Still, the compassionate
expression, in all our interactions, in every relationship,
Buddha left behind pertinent instructions, which ensured
then, the divine spark ignites in ourselves and others.
his spiritual progress and liberation.
“It is essential to suffuse all
For his dharmic progress, his repentance, and deference
our actions with Dharma.
to the chief disciples, was definitely crucial. However, the
That Dharma should be
friendship of the chief disciples, was of paramount
dedicated to the Divine.
importance.
When this happens, life
The Buddha described friendship, in the Sigalovada Sutta.
becomes sanctified,”
He pointed out 8 definitions of friendship, highlighting 4
Swami says.
bad types and 4 good types.
Realistically, friendship
Those who are bad friends:
with everyone, may not be
1) Are eager to benefit from you. possible, but it is certainly
2) Only pay lip service and do not follow their words with possible, and essential, to
commensurate actions. befriend God, who resides
3) Approve both your good and bad actions. in every heart. We are then
4) Influence you towards harmful habits, like drinking inviting God into our life.
alcohol. God, who ultimately, is our

only true friend.
Also, the Buddha mentioned friends, who only seek you
out for self-gratification, personal gain and selfish
References:
motives. Such friends are manipulative and temporary.
Dammapada Chapter 6 verse 3
They quickly absent themselves, when their needs are not
and Sathya Sai Speaks 21 - 8
met.
Baba illustrates this point beautifully, with the following
analogy: – Heart2Heart Team
“When a pond is full of water in the rainy season, there

SWAMI
TEST YOUR
ANDSPIRITUAL
ME QUOTIENT
5. For Sikhs, 16th June commemorates the fifth

Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev (1563-1606). For
MULTI-FAITH QUIZ
what event in Guru Arjan Dev's life is the 16th
June remembered?
D The day when Guru Arjan Dev inaugurated the
1. During His Ugadi discourse Bhagavan related
Golden Temple of Amritsar.
that on His visit to Chennai ten years ago He had
described the circumstances of His return to the E Guru Arjan Dev's martyrdom.
city. What were the circumstances that He F The day when Guru Arjan Dev completed
mentioned? compilation of the Guru Granth Sahib.
a. When proper rains fall invoked by the people's G Guru Arjan Dev's birth.
devotion.
b. After Bhagavan provides clean drinking water 6. In Prasnottara Vahini Bhagavan formulated this
to the city. question with its answer to follow:
c. When the numbers of the year add up to nine. Q: 'What are the traits of character that we have
d. When there is less pollution in the city. to avoid, that is to say, which are the obstacles
in the path of one who seeks Liberation from
the cycle of Birth and Death?'
2. 29th June is observed as St. Peter's day within
the Christian church. At one point, Peter A: 'The six, the Arishadvarga: Kama, Krodha,
famously contests his Master's prediction that Lobha, Moha, Mada and Maathsarya; these are
he would deny Him three times before the cock to be avoided.'
crowed. Later, Peter denies that he knew Jesus, What is the English meaning of Kama, the first
exactly as Lord Jesus had stated. When did this of the six?
event take place? D Desire
a. Just after Jesus had been imprisoned by the E Delusion
Romans. F Hate
b. After the crucifixion of Jesus. G Jealousy
c. After the Resurrection of Jesus.
d. While Peter was in Rome. 7. In the Ramayana, the young Kausalya was
imprisoned by Ravana in a wooden box and
3. In the Ramayana, what is the book Sundara placed in the ocean, as he wished to avert her
Kanda about? future marriage to Dasaratha. Who rescued
a. The exploits and heroics of Hanuman. her?
b. The battle of Rama with Ravana. a. Sumantra - Dasaratha's prime minister.
c. The period of exile of Rama, Sita and b. Guha, the tribal chieftain, when the box
Lakshmana in the forest. strayed to his shores.
d. The boyhood of Rama. c. Garuda, sent by Lord Vishnu.

d. Hanuman who came upon the box by chance.
4. “Time waste is life waste” is one of Bhagavan's

well-known sayings. How does Bhagavan direct 8. In Islam what does the word 'Hijra' refer to?
us to spend our time during the evening? a. The pilgrimage to Mecca.
a. In study. b. Obligatory charitable giving.
b. In exercise. c. A holy city of Islam.
c. In relaxation. d. The emigration of Prophet Muhammad to
d. In sadhana. Medina.
SWAMI AND ME TEST YOUR SPIRITUAL QUOTIENT
9. How does Bhagavan classify the yugas ie the “Swami! When would this reservoir get filled?” For
Kali-yuga, Dwapara-yuga everything, there is a time, action, reason and duty, which
Thretha-yuga and Kritha-yuga? shall go together. I kept these aspects in view and told
them, “I will not step into this city of Chennai till the next
a. According to planetary positions.
ten years. It is only after supplying water for drinking and
b. According to the passage of years.
irrigation purposes, and the people of Chennai drink pure
c. According to a person's character.
water that I would visit Chennai again.” Ten years passed
d. By reference to the scriptures. by. I fulfilled My promise of supplying drinking water to
the entire city of Chennai. Besides, it is also being used for
10. 17th May 2007, marks Ascension Day for irrigation purposes. Accordingly I visited Chennai during
Christians. What does this day commemorate? January this year.
a. The last day of Jesus' earthly mission. (First Ugadi Divine Discourse, 20 March 2007)
b. The day of Jesus' resurrection.
c. The day that Jesus' mother, Mary, ascended to 2. ANSWER A: Just after Jesus had been
Heaven. imprisoned by the Romans.
d. The day that all souls come closer to the We can read the account as
Heavenly Father. given in the Bible:
Peter said to him, “Even if
everyone else deserts you, I
ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS:
never will.” Jesus replied, “I
1. ANSWER B: After Bhagavan provides clean tell you the truth, Peter this
drinking water to the city. very night, before the
There is a place called Red Hills near Chennai, where a rooster crows twice, you
huge reservoir was built to store water. I was told that will deny three times that you even know me.” “No!”
drinking water is supplied from that reservoir to the entire Peter declared emphatically. “Even if I have to die with
city of Chennai. But, there was no water in the reservoir you, I will never deny you!” And all the others vowed the
itself at that time. How can water be supplied to the city? same.
Meanwhile, Peter was in the courtyard below. One of the
servant girls who worked for the high priest came by and
noticed Peter warming himself at the fire. She looked at
him closely and said, “You were one of those with Jesus of
Nazareth.” But Peter denied it. “I don't know what you're
talking about,” he said, and he went out into the
entryway. Just then, a rooster crowed. When the servant
girl saw him standing there, she began telling the others,
“This man is definitely one of them!” But Peter denied it
again. A little later some of the other bystanders
confronted Peter and said, “You must be one of them,
because you are a Galilean.” Peter swore, “A curse on me
if I'm lyingI don't know this man you're talking about!”
And immediately the rooster crowed the second time.
There were of course, a few places in the reservoir where
Suddenly, Jesus' words flashed through Peter's mind:
rain water collected as small cesspools. I saw some
“Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny three times
children drinking polluted water from those cesspools. I
that you even know me.” And he broke down and wept.
was also informed that the same water is being used for
(The Bible, Gospel of Matthew, v 29-31 and v 66-72)
drinking and cooking as well. There were a few devotees
travelling along with Me in the car. They enquired,

3. ANSWER A: The exploits and heroics of 6. ANSWER A: Desire

Hanuman. Bhagavan went on to explain what kama exactly entails:
Sundara Kanda was composed by Desire for riches, property, honour, status, fame, children;
Valmiki and translated into why list the lot? Attachment to all things of this sensory
English means "beautiful book". It world, this false, temporary, impure world.
describes Hanuman's successful (Prasnottara Vahini, chapter 6)
search for Sita, who, kidnapped
by the demon Ravana, is confined
7. ANSWER A: Sumantra - Dasaratha's prime
to a small garden inside his palace.
minister.
This chapter is recited on Tuesdays
and/or Saturdays to invoke We can read this episode from the divine words of our
harmony and the blessings of own Beloved Sai:
Hanuman. The box was carried by the waves onto the shore. The
place where it landed was a fine recreation area. The next
day, Sumantra, the Prime Minister of Dasaratha
4. ANSWER D: In sadhana.
happened to visit the place on a quiet holiday, to be spent
When evening descends, one hurries home, eats one's fill,
in discussing within himself the problems of the State. His
and is overpowered by sleep. But a duty still remains. To
eyes fell on the box. He retrieved it and opened it. He was
eat and sleep is the fate of idlers and drones. When the
surprised to find in it a charming girl, with attractive
worst of the qualities (gunas), the dull (thamas),
shining eyes and a halo of divine splendour. Sumantra
threatens to rule, one must make a special effort to
was overcome with pity. He spoke soft and sweet to the
escape its coils by resorting to prayer in the company of
girl, “Little one! How did it happen that you were placed
those who extol the Lord, reading about the glory of God,
inside this box?”… Sumantra placed her in his chariot and
the cultivation of good virtues, and the purposeful
proceeded to Kosala, where he restored her to the King
nursing of good rules of conduct. This is the prescribed
and recited before the Court the details known to him.
evening worship (Sandhyavandana).
The King too, interrogated Sumantra in various ways. He
(Dharma Vahini, chapter 8) discovered that he was none other than the minister at
the Court of Dasaratha, Emperor of Ayodhya, and that his
5. ANSWER B: Guru Arjan Dev's martyrdom. master was still unmarried. He was filled with joy at the
Guru Arjan Dev had discovery. He said, “Minister! You brought back to me this
attracted the anger of child of mine, saving her from destruction. So, I have
Emperor Jehangir on resolved to give her in marriage to your master himself.
account of his popularity Please inform the king of my offer.”
and his inclusion of both (Ramakatha Rasavahini p, 29)
Hindu and Muslim holy
writings in the Guru Granth 8. ANSWER D: The emigration of Prophet
Sahib. Refusing to bow to
Muhammad to Medina.
the Emperor's demands to
Muhammad and his followers were being violently
censor the Guru Granth
persecuted in Mecca. Muhammad then sent seventy of
Sahib, he was tortured and
his followers to the northern town of Medina. Later, he
became the first Sikh martyr.
learned of a plot to murder him and set off to join the
Before his untimely death, he had become the Guru of all
emigrants. However he was pursued and took refuge in a
Sikhs when only eighteen years of age, and instituted
cave where, as he hid from the pursuers, a spider spun its
many developments to the Sikh faith, such as the
web across the cave's mouth. When the pursuers saw that
compilation of the Guru Granth Sahib, (the holy book of
the web was unbroken, they passed by and Muhammad
the Sikhs) and the building of the main Sikh shrine, the
went on to the safe haven of Medina.
Golden temple at Amritsar.
The date of this event, 622, marks the beginning of the
SWAMI AND ME MULTI-FAITH QUIZ
Muslim era; in other words, year one. This is written in qualities of dharma. The conduct of man makes and mars
Roman script as 1 AH standing for 'anno hegirae' or 'in the history and changes the Golden Age to the Iron Age.
year of the Hijra'. (Dharma Vahini, chapter 9)
10. ANSWER A: The last day of Jesus' earthly

mission.
After the resurrection, Jesus spent forty days with His
disciples, after which He ascended to heaven as described
from the Bible:
9. ANSWER C: According to a person's character.

Bhagavan describes the yugas in this way:
The ages (yugas) are classified on the basis of the
dominant mental role. In the age of truth (Kritha-yuga), it
is said that dharma walked about on four legs, happy and
safe. In the second age (Thretha-yuga), dharma had only
three legs, while in the third age (Dwapara-yuga), it had
to totter about on just two! In the present Kali-yuga,
dharma has only one leg, according to this tradition. The
four legs are truth, compassion, austerity, and giving
(sathya, daya, tapas, and dana). A person with all four can
be said to be in the Golden Age (Kritha-yuga), whatever
the age in the calendar. If truth is not steady but one has
…He was taken up into a cloud while they were watching,
the other three qualities, one is in the Thretha-yuga. If
and they could no longer see him. As they strained to see
truth and compassion are absent but austerity and giving
him rising into heaven, two white-robed men suddenly
persist, one is in the Dwapara-yuga. If only giving remains
stood among them. “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why are
out of the four, it is as if dharma is standing on one leg,
you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been
and the person sticking to giving, in spite of everything
taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return
else having disappeared, is in the Iron Age (Kali-yuga)
from heaven in the same way you saw him go!”
even if it is chronologically the Golden Age.
(The Bible, Book of Acts, chapter 1 verse 9-11)
The ages (yugas) change only with the change in dharma,
not with the mere passage of time. The wicked
Hiranyakasipu and the pure-hearted Prahlada lived in the – Heart2Heart Team
selfsame chronological yuga; the same yuga saw
Dharmaja, the personification of righteousness and
peace (santhi), as well as the arch cheat Duryodhana. So,
dharma is what makes the yuga for each; one can always
be in the Golden Age (Kritha-yuga), if only one has all four

one point the boys were rehearsing and

Bhagavan stopped the performance when a
QUIZ ON HEART 2 HEART
bad character came on the stage. What did
Bhagavan then tell the students?
1. One morning while Bhagavan was on the a. To leave out the bad character from the play.
portico conversing with the young school boys, b. To choose another play entirely.
He suddenly asked them, "Boys, what do you c. To tone down the amount of immorality in the
think God is like?" The small boys had no reply character.
for this rather grand question. Bhagavan then d. To make the bad character more pronounced.
went on to tell them just what God is like, as
follows, but can you fill in the answer? (The 4. In our February, 2007 issue we had the
blanks are two words repeated throughout.) transcript of a talk delivered in the divine
“God is sweet like ___ ___!" The boys became presence by Dr. T. Ravi Kumar. He enthralled us
attentive. Swami continued, "God is soft like ___ by relating his father's first amazing encounter
___!" …Swami went on, "God is cool like ___ with Bhagavan, when he was suffering from
___!" And then the punch line: "He gives joy like the ravages of cancer. Swami had approached
___ ___! "What are the repeated two missing him and remarked:
words, as reported in our 31 Aug 2003 issue? “Why did you have twenty-five operations?”
a. Mother's smile My father sat up! Swami said, “The doctor is
b. Gentle rain saying that you will die; he has given you only
c. Ice cream few days.”
d. Soothing words What did Swami continue to say?
a. “Your faith has made you well.”
2. In our July 2006 edition we had a talk by Mrs b. “Come for interview I will heal you.”
Geetha Mohan. She informed us that when, in c. “Bring your son to me. He will work in the
1943, her grandfather Sheshagiri Rao, a devout institute.”
worshipper of Lord Shiva, came to see Swami d. “You will not die! Your cancer is cancelled!”
for the first time he had a closed mind and only
came to protect the ladies in the family group. 5. In a story from Swami's Hospital in the 31
What happened when he first saw Swami, at August 2003 issue, we learnt how a patient did
that time, a young lad of 16 years. not recover heart function after an operation
a. He started to cry and did not stop for four and was causing everyone concern about his
hours. condition. What happened next?
b. He jumped into the air and started to sing that a. The patient recovered after prayers were said
he had seen God. for him.
c. He fainted and did not get up for two days. b. Bhagavan came to the theatre 'by chance' and
d. He refused to speak for the next year. touched the man causing a recovery.
c. The man died and then came back to life after
3. In our November 2004 cover story - A Play having a 'near death experience'.
Within The Play - we dwelt on the wonderful d. After a marathon session the man recovered
interactions and guidance that Swami has with and was heard to be chanting the pranava
His students during the Convocation dramas. At mantra under his breath.
SWAMI AND ME QUIZ ON HEART 2 HEART
ANSWERS TO QUIZ extent of evil in that character. He said that we may feel
that we are just portraying a negative character, only
acting the part - but real acting demands that we become
1. ANSWER C: Ice cream the part. So when we think more and more about the
For the full sweet story check out: negative part, our subconscious is affected and our real
http://media.radiosai.org/Journals/Vol_01/01AUG31/Me life attitudes also undergo subtle changes which can later
mories/IceCream.htm be harmful. As we think so we become. So no character
should be portrayed with too much of negativity. Who
would think of a role in such a way, except the one who
2. ANSWER C: He fainted and did not get up for
knows us inside out? This is a vindication of the truth that
two days.
God knows us more than we know ourselves.
The story is as follows:
He takes one look at Swami that he had vowed not to -
4. ANSWER D: “You will not die! Your cancer is
because he was going to go away - he takes one look at
cancelled!”
Him; two seconds, and bang! He has fainted on the
floor… So, for one and a half days, Swami looks after this Dr. T. Ravi Kumar goes on to say:
old man - 58 years old, puts water in his mouth every two This was in the year 1968 and my father was alive for
hours, materializes vibhuti, puts it on his head every two thirty eight long years! He died a couple of months back
hours…Two days later he gets up and he is a completely when he was touching 89 years - out of old age.
changed man! He said: “You ladies, you two daughters of
mine, you can go back to Bangalore, but I am not coming
5. ANSWER A: The patient recovered after
back.” They said: “You said you were not going to come
prayers were said for him.
here! What do you mean you are not coming back with
The narrator of the incident, Mr Ravi Mariwala, recalls
us?” He says: “No, when I walked in into that compound,
that:
and I saw the young boy sitting on the rock, in His face, I
had the vision of Lord Shiva. In His head, I saw the moon, We were absolutely helpless. It occurred to me that we
and on His forehead, I saw the third eye! This is the Lord had tried everything but prayer. Prayer for a person not
Shiva that I have been worshipping for the past fifty years. known to me? Would it work? I think that is why it did. As
And now that I have seen Him, why would I leave Him? I I had been in the theatre for five hours already, I was
am not coming back.” So he resigned his job from briefly relieved by a colleague. I came into the corridor
Puttaparthi and he never came back. outside the theatre and stood silently for a minute, trying
to recollect Sai's face in my mind's eye. I said a silent prayer
for the patient's recovery. Immediately thereafter, I
3. ANSWER C: To tone down the amount of
returned to the theatre. The situation had changed
immorality in the character.
completely. The blood pressure had improved, and the
Swami was concerned at the influence that playing a bad heart had recovered! Strangely, no one knew how or why;
character would have on the boys, as we read from the I did not say anything to anyone. The incident passed and
account: the patient's recovery was smooth.
In the year 1998, the play involved a strong negative role On the Sunday that followed, Swami came to me, created
of a person who for selfish reasons causes many vibhuti, put it into my hands and lovingly said, "This is for
impediments to the protagonist and his associates. the prayer that you said for that patient." He then
During the initial rehearsals Swami did not comment proceeded to describe the incident to others. Here was
much but after a while he was distinctly uncomfortable Swami rewarding me for the miracle cure that He in His
during scenes that involved this character and one day Mercy had effected!"
during the rehearsals, He stopped the play immediately
after the character came on stage. He called for the actors
in the play and explained that He did not appreciate the

PHOTO GALLERY
IT'S HEAVEN!
GLIMPSES OF KODAI
2007
SWAMI AND ME PHOTO GALLERY
IT'S HEAVEN!
GLIMPSES OF KODAI
2007

PHOTO GALLERY
IT'S HEAVEN!
GLIMPSES OF KODAI
2007
SWAMI AND ME PHOTO GALLERY
IT'S HEAVEN!
GLIMPSES OF KODAI
2007

Heart2Heart Radioe-Journal, June
January
2007
Sai's e-Journal, 2007
(Vol.
(Vol.
January 5, Issue
2007 5,(Vol.
Issue
6)5,1)Issue 1) www.radiosai.org
129
HEALING TOUCH
A MOTHER'S AGONY...
When desperation
evokes divine intervention
The dollar daze can't be more apparent than in the dazzle

of the burgeoning city of Mehasana, in the state of
Gujarat in western India. Among its many claims to
fame, Mehasana is well-known for its “foreign content”.
It is believed that one or more members of every family
here have ventured abroad in pursuit of economic
prosperity. A substantial segment of the highly The beautiful Shanku Water Park
successful Gujarati community settled in the United
are the large presence of the ONGC (Oil & Natural Gas
States of America traces its roots to the Mehasana region.
Corporation Limited). Natural resources are aplenty in the
The lure of the American greenback is so strong that it is
region. Mehasana enjoys a rich crop of peanuts,
believed that people of this region do not shy away from
mustard, psyllium (isabgol) and other agricultural
paying up to US$50,000 to go the USA.
produce. The municipality is also looking forward to
The area also enjoys substantial in-house economic reaping an improved harvest of water from the state's
growth and activity. Some indicators of this prosperity Narmada Dam Water Project. Located not far from the
city of Ahmedabad which is the commercial hub of the
state of Gujarat, Mehasana is also home to the
Dudhsagar Dairy Cooperative, known as one of India's
highest milk collection centres. The local breed of
Mehasana buffalo has acquired a reputation for its high
yield. In addition, Mehasana also has the biggest iron
and steel market in India. And what good would all the
wealth be without some fun and recreation? Mehasana
is also the home of India's largest water amusement park,
the Shanku Water Park.
Thanks to the economic boom from within and the high
Industrialised and prosperous...
rate of foreign exchange remittances from abroad, the
gloss of growth cannot be missed in Mehasana.
The Divide Between Two Hemispheres

Yet, while Mehasana's wealthy elite may enjoy enviable
lifestyles and prosperity, this apparent achievement has
an ugly underbelly. Alongside the glitzy skyscrapers and
sky rocketing land prices is the grim urban squalor. Like
most cities in the developing world, the north-side divide
in Mehasana is sharp and severe.
The co-existence of two hemispheres, divorced from each
...Mehsana is one of Gujrat's happening cities other like day and night are the two opposing zones that
have two totally contrasting realities. While the financial
SWAMI AND ME A MOTHER'S AGONY... When desperation evokes intervention
boom is rapidly adding wealth to the coffers of the rich, that represents the lowest rung of a class-conscious
this prosperous but caste-conscious city also has a huge society. The Chamars were, and still are by many
segment of a poor and illiterate population that remains unenlightened people, considered outcasts and
untouched by this prosperity. They are barely surviving untouchables.
on the periphery of its economic epicenter: marginalized With such social stigmas and the obvious disadvantages
men, women and children who are yet to enjoy any of the of an illiterate and poor widow, Pittiben struggled to
fundamental rights guaranteed to them in the Indian make ends meet and to provide for her son Bhavesh. She
constitution, let alone ride the wave of Mehasana's recent worked as a construction labourer in a ceramic tile unit.
tide in fortunes. She made Rs. 20 a day. Her typical monthly income was
Children of a Lesser God barely Rs. 300-400 (less than US $10). Bhavesh attended
This is the story of one such child of a lesser God and his the village municipal school at no cost.
mother, a single parent, who wept, wailed and besieged a A Mother's Worst Nightmare
higher power out there, to help her out of her By the time Bhavesh reached the age of 11 years, he
desperation when she faced a parent's worst nightmare started getting tired very easily; he could not walk more
to helplessly watch her child die a slow death before her than 20 yards without taking a break. Consulting a doctor
eyes. She felt totally powerless, unable to reverse this was not a choice his mother could afford. His condition
tragedy only because she was poor and lacked a social continued to deteriorate finally forcing his mother to seek
support and health-care system. It is a story of how those medical help at the Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad. The
who support and sustain the giddying economic boom at diagnosis struck her like a bolt of lighting. Bhavesh had a
the grass-roots level are so not valued and manage to slip hole in the heart, a condition also known as Ventricular
and fall through the cracks in the system which offers no Septal Defect (VSD). He could not play, walk or perform
safety net to them. This is a tale of a victim of the utter any of the activities of a normal 11 year old child.
despair and callousness that a society's capitalist
conscience could not care less about.
This is the story of Bhavesh Chamar, the only child of

Pittiben and Ramabhai Chamar of Nugar village, near the
prosperous town of Mehasana. Early in his childhood,
Bhavesh lost his father Ramabhai. As suggested by their
last name, the family belongs to the Chamar community
Bhavesh's life was directionless and dreary
The news shattered the poor and desperate family.

Initially, they struggled and managed to get by with the
medication provided to them by the hospital. However,
misery loves company and soon Bhavesh developed
appendicitis and had to undergo treatment for the same.
The local Member of the Legislative Assembly,
Pittiben's state was pitiable to say the least neighbours, and relatives chipped in then and paid for

HEALING TOUCH
the surgery that was performed in a local private hospital. Goddess. The Chamar Vas (Chamar colony) in Nugar
Subsequently, his condition deteriorated further and this village echoed with the cries of this helpless mother who
time around an operation for his heart became had no one to turn to except the Divine mother.
imperative for his survival. Meanwhile, Bhavesh's uncle Ambalal continued to meet
The surgery was estimated to cost Rs. 1.25 lakhs with and seek help from various government officials in
(approximately US $ 3000). Given the fact that the family the hope of getting some money or medical subsidy that
could barely feed themselves one decent meal a day, such would solve his nephew's problem. However, no help
medical treatment was out of question. Recalls Bhavesh's materialized. With each passing day, the family's hopes
uncle Mr. Ambalal Shankarbhai, also a construction for Bhavesh's medical treatment and survival were ending
labourer: “We felt that this family will not survive.” on a sliding scale.
In their desperation, they approached the local Member Somebody, Anybody Out There?
An utterly distraught Pittiben continued to send out her
pleas for help into the vast nothingness, hoping some
power out there would care and take note of her
situation. She was desperate and had no one else to turn
to. Her pleas for a divine intervention were not lost.
It was sometime in the second week of February 2007

that a Sai devotee and leading doctor of Mehasana, Dr.
P.D. Patel informed Bhavesh's uncle Ambalal of a
diagnostic heart camp scheduled to be conducted in
Mehasana on February 25, 2007. The information was
based on an article in the local newspaper which also said
that patients requiring surgery would be operated upon
Ambalal, Bhavesh's uncle,
did not believe there was hope
of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly who wrote a letter of
recommendation to the Government Hospital in
Ahmedabad. They were offered a subsidy from the
Gujarat Chief Ministers Relief fund to the tune of 33% of
the cost of the operation that was estimated to cost Rs
1.25 lakhs (around US $3000).
But this was no relief. An expense of another Rs. 80,000 Gujarat

Mehasansa
(US $ 2000) odd was unimaginable, on her monthly Rajkot
income of less than $10 or Rs. 300-400. Her only child

was dying a slow death each day and she could do
Andhra Pradesh
nothing to help him. Pittiben was inconsolable. Her last
Puttaparthi
resort was to beseech God. In her moments of
frustration, she even fought with the Goddess, the
presiding diety of the Chamar community. She was
frequently found at the small temple near her house
praying to the Goddess for the life of her precious and
only child. She would weep and wail in front of the Mehasana and Rajkot in Gujarat, Western India
most backward and

neglected areas. These
camps spread awareness
among the poor about the
free tertiary care facilities
available at the Hospital
and offer prescreening
camps.
Patients are examined and
necessary tests are
undertaken on the spot;
The Sri Sathya Sai Heart Hospital, Rajkot
those requiring surgical
free of cost! Various centers for pre-registration in the
intervention and further diagnostic attention are
heart camp were listed too in the article. Ambalal
identified, and then given all necessary information to
immediately took Bhavesh and his medical records to the
come to the hospital in Rajkot for the necessary
nearest prescreening center for registration. This
treatment, as always, free of cost. The patients and their
prescreening camp was held in Dr. P D Patel's clinic.
family members accompanying them are offered free
The medical camp was about to come to Bhavesh's
meals. In cases of severe deprivation, even the bus/train
doorstep as a part of the community outreach program
fare to the hospital is reimbursed.
of the Sri Sathya Sai Hospital of Rajkot, a city located at a
The Sri Sathya Sai
distance of 200 kilometres from Mehasana, about a four
Hospital of Rajkot is
and a half hours drive by public transport - an option out
but a reflection of
of Bhavesh's reach and awareness, given his situation.
the teachings of
Seek And Seize Bhagavan who
The Opportunity To Help: Baba
repeatedly reminds
The idea of conducting prescreening medical camps in
us that “Service to
the remotest and economically disadvantaged areas of
man is service to
the state and to actively seek out patients suffering
God.” Swami says:
without any hope or access to a healthcare system is the
“God has two
brainchild of Bhagavan Baba. At the time of the
forms: Lakshmi
hospital's founding, Bhagavan had advised His devotees
Narayana and Daridra Narayana. Most of the people
in Gujarat to take relief to those who are the most in need
are engaged in serving Lakshmi Narayana; few
of it. Bhagavan had categorically directed and guided
people serve Daridra Narayana... Service to Daridra
them to seek out those who are caught in the viscous
Naranya is the highest form of Sadhana (personal
cycle of abject poverty, helplessness and hopelessness.
discipline).”
“Do not wait for an opportunity to serve: go out and
The hospital actively seeks God by seeking to serve the
seize the opportunity which is already available,”
poor and alleviating their pain and misery. All involved,
Baba had said.
from those who flex their monetary muscle, to those who
In direct adherence to this command from the source of
perform hard labour and every body in between,
ultimate compassion, the Sri Sathya Sai Hospital, Rajkot,
including highly specialized and dedicated medical
has been, since its founding in the year 2000, conducting
professionals, gear all their efforts, energy and
regular diagnostic cardiac camps in different districts of
knowledge to help the forgotten, neglected and destitute
Gujarat, going to great lengths to specifically target the

HEALING TOUCH
Patients from all communities Registration is done diligently

and backgrounds queue up by the selfless Sai workers...
during the hospital's medical camps The volunteers run the whole show
members of society. forgotten by governments, NGO's and the world.

“Service to any being amounts to serving Me, for I am Bhagavan's mission is to uplift the downtrodden and
in all,” Bhagavan reminds us. “The relief and joy that infuse hope, love and health in their lives.”
you give to the sick and the sorrowing reach Me, for I The hospital administrators routinely monitor patient
am in their hearts, and I am the One whom they call data to determine the patterns in the district-wise access
out to. God has no need of your service. Try to serve to the hospital. Based on the geographical trends that
the Godly; become the servants of the servants of the emerge, the districts that indicate lower patient access to
Lord. Service of man is the only means by which you the hospital become the administrators' top priority.
can serve God.” These districts are then aggressively targeted through
media campaigns and the local population is informed of
Camps Exemplify
Compassion and Coordination upcoming prescreening heart camps. Once the word
For those involved in organizing the various aspects of spreads, villagers from the remotest of areas turn up.
such heart camps, it is a very special opportunity for Most patients and their families have usually given up all
narayana seva or service to God. In Rajkot, the Sai hope and simply resigned to their fate. Once they
devotees like to call it a 'heart narayan seva'. “We are experience the heart camps, a renewed sense of hope is
going to the people rather than waiting for them to come rekindled in their hearts, often reaffirming their faith in
to us,” says Manoj Bhimani, Trustee of the SSS Hospital, the goodness of society and in God, as they see it as a
Rajkot. “The awareness of this world-class health facility direct response to their prayers from a higher power.
has to penetrate to those who feel most neglected and This mammoth effort is made possible due to the close
coordination between the SSS Hospital of Rajkot, the

service wing of the local chapter of the Sai organization
and the Sri Sathya Sai Organization of the state of
Gujarat. The synergies result in a well-oiled living
organization that has successfully been translating
Bhagavan Baba's message of love and service into reality
for such forlorn souls as Bhavesh Chamar of Nugar village
in the municipal jurisdiction of Mehasana.
The entire operation is conducted with a clock-wise
precision. For starters, a number of pre-registration
centers are identified. Publicity about the event is
conducted using local newspapers, radio, word of The Camp starts with Vedam chanting
mouth, posters, and pamphlets. Local councils, health
authorities and local government authorities are apprised
of the camp information so that maximum number of
local people can derive benefit from the effort.
Typically, clinics are spread across the districts, with

specific emphasis on covering areas that emerge as
weaker points of contact from the hospital
administrators' data base. These are manned by the
doctors of the SSS Hospital of Rajkot as well as volunteer
doctors from other reputed hospitals. Patients are made
to fill out a form to provide such information as patient's ...and followed by Bhajans
name, age, address, contact coordinates etc. Many
dedicated medical professionals who volunteer their
patients are from economically challenged backgrounds
time, energy and medical know-how and join the SSS
and do not have telephones. Patients are given
Hospital's effort to bring healthcare to the remotest
appointment tokens for consulting cardiac surgeons at
corners of Gujarat.
the camp.
Typically, the surgeons review the patient's previous
Heart Camps - Therapeutic
medical record and refer the patient for ECG and/or ECHO
For Volunteers and Local Leaders As Well
On the day of the camp the location is a beehive of activity
with doctors, the ever dedicated seva dal volunteers and
administrators trying to do their best. The camp starts in
front of Swami's portrait with the chanting of three
Omkars and prayers. The Seva Dal leaders give their final
instructions to their respective groups reminding them of
spirit in which they must perform their duties. The camp
then opens its doors to the long lines of patients.
Patients who have already registered are directly sent to
the top-notch surgeons who spare their valuable time to
serve at these camps. Seeing the scale and sincerity of the
SSS Hospital of Rajkot, there is no dearth of such Offerings of love with a young patient

HEALING TOUCH
As in the Rajkot hospital, the camps also offer all tests,

checkup by consultants, meals and other medical services
totally free of cost to the patients. Even the relatives of
the patients accompanying them receive free meals.
The experience of both who serve and those who are

served is poignantly moving. As everyone goes on with
their duties in the spirit of love, an overpowering sense of
compassion fills the environment. After medical tests are
concluded, the patients are referred back to the
surgeons. Given the magnitude of these camps and the
selfless spirit in which they provide the much-needed
Shri Mangal Patel, Speaker, relief to the suffering villages, they are often graced by
Gujarat Vidhan Sabha shares his views
at heart camp in Mehsana, February 2007 local dignitaries.
One such guest at a recent camp was Mr. Mangal Patel,

the Speaker of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly who
visited the heart camp in Mehasana on February 25,
2007. It was the same fateful camp that would offer the
very first glimpse of hope to Bhavesh Chamar and his
mother Pittiben.
Speaking at the camp, a former teacher and now the

Speaker of the state legislature, Mr. Mangal Patel
said: "What you see before your eyes is not an
ordinary event. The kind of activity and the scale at
Member of Parliament from Mehasana which you are doing the same is not possible without
Mr. Jayantibhai Barot was moved the grace of the Sadguru. It is His energy which allows
by the spirit of selfless service at the camp
you to serve in this way."
tests, as required. These diagnostic machines are The Member of Parliament from Mehasana Mr.
available at the camp itself. Based on the patient Jayantibhai Barot donated Rs. 25 lakhs (approxiamately
evaluation, the doctors then recommend them for US $55, 000) from his MPLAD fund (a corpus fund that
surgery at the SSS Hospital, Rajkot. Members of the Indian Parliament can utilize and allocate
Many dignitaries graced the heart camp in February 2007 and left inspired and invigorated
for initiatives directed at the development of their

constituency) to the SSS Hospital in Rajkot. So moved
was he by what he saw that he confessed if he could help
it, he "would donate all the money from the fund if the
government permits me."
Such is the grace of our Bhagavan that the work done

under His banner and supervision motivates, inspires,
touches and helps many others, apart from the patients
of course. From the volunteers, doctors, medical
assistants, lab technicians, visiting dignitaries to the
families of the patients, all find the energy in the camp
both therapeutic and moving.
Pittiben... life has begun
In the words of the Lord, “Work done with no desire is
once again for her, joyfully now
the supreme ideal of man.”
could indeed end their plight.
“Serve others, visualising them as kindred atmas”
Ever since she had lost her husband and her world had
Rajesh Krishnani is a Seva Dal leader who has participated
turned topsy-turvy with her son's diagnosis, she had
actively in such camps. For him, “The finest reward I get
carried the burden of gloom, hopelessness and despair in
during this camps is to see the face of the patient when
her heart. On February 25, 2007, for the first time ever, in
they are allotted a date for surgery at the hospital. I see
years, Pittiben felt at ease. She felt wanted and her son's
love and hope in their eyes. At this time you feel God is
survival mattered. The visit to the camp was a first step
somewhere near us. You get the feeling you really are
towards restoring a sense of dignity to their otherwise
doing God's work.”
pathetic existence.
God Listens: Hope and Happiness
After being examined at the camp, Bhavesh was speedily
Descends on the Hapless Mother
referred to the hospital in Rajkot where within a fortnight
By now Bhavesh was in the 9th grade and his future
he was operated upon and granted a new lease of life.
looked grim and dismal. The fateful day finally came in
How can Bhavesh, Pittiben, Uncle Ambalal or the Chamar
the lives of Bhavesh Chamar and his distraught mother
community of Nugar village ever forget the date March
Pittiben. On February 25, 2007 at the recommendation
14, 2007 when a frantic women who thought she had
of Dr. P.D. Patel, a Sai devotee and a prominent doctor of
lost all in life, found hope and the gift of life for her dying
Mehasana, the patient and his mother arrived at the
child.
camp in their own vicinity to seek the much needed
medical intervention to save Bhavesh's life. Despite the initial misgivings of her community about
subjecting her child to a free operation, an idea that
Upon being lovingly received by the volunteers and
sounded too good to be true, Pittiben was desperate
directed promptly to the right channels, Pittiben heaved
enough to explore the option and in the process she
an unexpected sigh of relief. Somewhere deep within her
discovered pure love and an affirmation of her faith in
she sensed that her cries for help over the last five years
God's compassion.
had not gone unheard after all. The divine Mother whom
she had been praying to and fighting with all these years Hargovind Bhavesh's uncle Ambalal Shankarbhai now
had actually been listening and was finally interceding. says: “The Sathya Sai Hospital is our God”. His
The once unheard of and distant Rajkot hospital had neighbor Hargovind concurs: “We could not dream
come to their doorstep, seeking her and Bhavesh. about doing this operation in seven lives”. When
Perhaps there was hope at the end of their tunnel, that Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba stepped in, all it took was

HEALING TOUCH
two weeks to permanently restore a child's health and his

mother's faith in the power of her prayers. If the mother
is the child's first God, Pittiben, a woman of no formal
education, epitomizes such Godliness, for in her
simplicity lay her trust in God and her sense of surrender
to save her son when no government, health care system
or social safety net came to her rescue.
In fact, the healing occurs from within and without and at

multiple levels for all parties concerned. Some are cured
of their physical maladies, others are touched and
inspired to selflessness and yet others grow in their hearts
to experience the joy of serving God. From the doctors to
the seva dal volunteers and everyone in between, all
parties involved agree the hospital is their personal
healing centre where each one of them is receiving their
Bhavesh is now
full of vigour and youthful energy individual treatments at deeper levels for the own
spiritual health and well-being! The devotees of Gujarat
There are numerous Pittibens and Bhaveshs whose
are beholden to Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba for
prayers are answered by the SSSH of Rajkot. Over 26
considering them worthy of participating in such noble
people from Mehsana were operated upon within 20
work. Their sentiments of gratitude are well captured in
days of the camp held on February 25. These include
St. Francis of Assisi's prayer:
patients who required serious heart operations with valve
replacements and other such procedures. Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Sai - The Saviour of the Forlorn
Where there is injury, pardon;
The hospital is keen to serve those who grace its camps in
Where there is doubt, faith;
a spirit of love as advised by Swami. When the SSSH,
Where there is despair, hope;
Rajkot was being built, Swami had told the trustees to
Where there is darkness, light;
provide the best services and to consider every patient as
Where there is sadness, joy.
Narayan Swarup (Embodiment of the Supreme God).
O Divine Master,
The SSSH Rajkot is following Swami's words in spirit and
Grant that I may not so much seek
to the letter.
To be consoled as to console,
Sai is the sole inspiration for this unique healthcare set up
To be understood as to understand,
that seeks out the poor and the helpless and delivers to
To be loved, as to love;
them, free of cost, the best possible healthcare services in
For it is in giving that we receive;
an efficient manner at the Rajkot Hospital. Verily God
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
Himself arrives in the form of the poor, helpless and
It is in dying to self that we are born to Eternal Life.
uneducated patients such as Bhavesh Chamar presenting
Amen.
an opportunity to serve. And while the patients receive
relief from their physical ailments, the experience also – Heart2Heart Team
restores their sense of dignity and emotional well-being.
SWAMI AND ME YOUR SAY
Sairam,
The article on the Bhagavan's mobile hospital is superb in
FEEDBACK FROM OUR all respects. By Swami's sankalpa the entire rural Bharath
READERS will get such magnanimous facility to the benefit of
everybody. After reading the article one can understand
that it is not just a giant bus and the various diagnostic
Feedback on the Cover Story: equipments that matters, but the accompanying
'A 'Moving' Marvel Of Holistic Medicare … dedicated doctors, volunteers, work force ,faithful
The Story Of Sri Sathya Sai Mobile Hospital patients and more than all Swami's grace that really
matters.
Jai Sai Raama,
Dear H2H Team,
Krishna Prasad
Your seva has been so
helpful, motivating
and inspirational. Your
good deeds will be
well rewarded. Well Sai Ram!
done with the I was fortunate to read this article. I could not hold myself
excellent work that in letting you know how much it helps to read this type of
you are doing. Your article. Swami's grace and love is boundless. His method
insight at going to of reaching out is even more wonderful.
homes to provide a Sai Ram,
service is way beyond
Anil Sundar Sishtla,
words.
Bloomington, IL, USA
Devi Reddy,
Campus Health &
Wellness Centre
Aum Sai Ram,

I read your articles and news regarding the Sai mobile
medical camp in India. It is amazing the work the doctors
Om Sai Ram,
and nurses and volunteers do to help the poor people. I
I read the full story about the messenger of God - the like the part on the little boy who had polio and lost all his
white mobile hospital and was touched by the whole teeth and was unable to walk...what transformation
narration, it is definitely the work of the divine. His within weeks of receiving the treatment from Sai's mobile
blessings always help in healing and work faster than medical camp. All the doctors and nurses and volunteers
medicines. are so dedicated and treat the people with respect and
Jai Sai Ram, Vasudev Raheja love.
I am from UK and there is going to be a team from UK
going to Russia and Malawi this year for Sai Baba's
medical camp and I have submitted my CV and am
waiting for confirmation whether I get accepted or not. I
Sai Ram,
would go has a volunteer to help the doctors/nurses and
This article was truly inspiring. I wish I could be there to
patients.
give the parties a hand. I was in tears when I looked at the
With Sai Ram love,
last 2 photos.
Jaishri Mistry,
K. Mohan,
Preston, UK
Perth, Australia

YOUR SAY
Sai Ram, in our memories is very touching to me and helpful to my

Thank you for a very inspiring account of the mobile own development. Thank you once again for the
hospital and its tremendous impact on the quality of life wonderful work you are sharing with the world.
of the poor and distressed villagers. A very moving In His service with Love,
account indeed. Bea Flaig
Sai Ram,
Saranga Pani.
Sai Ram,
I enjoyed reading the article of Mrs Padmamma. It was
Dear Sirs, very inspiring. I would just love to read such
This is an article that moves any individual who reads it. conversations of Sai devotees. They are all very fortunate
This is another of Swami's innovative projects and it is to be close to Swami...I wish I was.
unique in all respects. This is the real transformation Sai Ram,
process. This is the only way that the whole country can Tushna,
be changed to a different dimension - a shift in the Panama
attitude paradigm. This is the shining example of selfless
service. This where every participant is elevated to the
level of Mother Theresa. Fantastic Sir. I did read the whole
article without leaving a single word and it is so inspiring.
I shared this news with many people. Thank you very Sai Ram
much for this kind of excellent service. Please continue In fact while reading this interview I felt the presence of
with this kind of inspiring articles. Baba in my office. I am very grateful to Prof Kasturi Ji that
Thanks and regards, he translated so many discourses of our Baba and we
Nagesh. were all able to read and experience bliss. Please send me
further interviews from devotees as it increases my faith.
Jai Sai Ram,
Feedback on the H2H Special
Nilla Chamroo
"He Is My Swami" by Mrs. Padma Kasturi
Dear H2H team,

Loving Sai Ram. The article with Padmamma was spiritual
awakening to me. While going through the written Dear H2H Team,
conversation of Ms P Kasturi an electrifying current Thank you very much for bringing Mrs. Padma Kasturi's
flowed inside me. Thank you and looking forward for the interview. We are truly blessed to listen to Swami's earlier
next continuation of the conversation. devotees' experiences and please I request that you bring
May Swami always bless you. more in the future - with Bhagavan's Grace.
Nandini Tamang Jai Sairam,
from Nepal V. Jayaraman,
Toronto, Canada.
Sai Ram!
Your very inspiring interview with Kasturi's daughter has Sairam,
left me with fond memories of my interactions with Sri I read with interest the interview "He is my Swami". It was
Kasturi in the 70s and 80s. Mrs. Padma Kasturi's wonderful. As I am simultaneously reading Prof Kasturi's
understanding of the place in which Swami now resides "Loving God", it is all the more memorable. The only sad
SWAMI AND ME FEEDBACK FROM OUR READERS
thing is that I have wait for one more month for the next creation. Please keep the articles coming to help those of
instalment of H2H! How nice it would be if you can us with very little understanding of science and the great
increase the periodicity? mysteries of creation. Although I do not claim to
Sairam, understand everything (not your fault) - the articles are
very beneficial. I hope to share them with my children and
Dilip,
others at our Sai Centre. You have a wonderful gift to
Chennai.
explain complex matters in simple language.
Many Thanks.
Feedback on the article Loving Sai Ram,
'In Quest Of Infinity Part 5'
Ravi Rudra,
By Prof G. Venkataraman
Auckland, New Zealand
Dear Sirs,
The article is fantastic. This should continue as it is a great
gift to appreciate God who is the creator of all these
mysteries. Prof. Venkataraman's presentation of the most
Dear Team,
difficult scientific theories in a understandable and easy
Sai Ram. Will you please convey my appreciation for his
way is very much appreciated. Many thanks to Prof.
'cosmic lectures' to Prof. Venkataraman. I read them
Venkataraman and his team for bringing these articles to
always, print them out and hand them on to friends. He is
all of us.
such a good story-teller and writes in such a way that the
Nagesh Gurram
interested layman is easily gripped by the intricacies of
nature in the physicist realm. Bravo!
Kindest regards,
Hein Vink,
Dear Prof. Venkataraman, The Hague, Holland
Thank you so much for sharing your vast knowledge in
Physics and make it available to laymen like me. I just read
the article on the topic of Black Hole and it was simply
amazing. The language is so lucid that I didn't want to
stop. It is also kept at a level that keeps even the interest Om Sri Sai Ram,
of a high school kid, sustained. I always wanted to know Just a short e-mail to say what a wonderful, informative
about this subject matter, but many articles/books were and sometimes, mind boggling series "In Quest Of
simple turn-offs, only because the language used was not Infinity" is. Please, please keep this series going, it is
brought down to the average reader's level. Thanks a lot fantastic, 'out of this world' if I may also add!!! Keep up
again, and keep providing us with these kind of the excellent wok that you are all doing and may Baba
stimulating articles with a lot of historical anecdotes in bless you all immensely.
other topics of Physics as well. Looking forward to more Jai Sai Ram,
of your articles. Love Ron
Sai Ram, from U.K.
Nagesh Avadhany,
San Francisco, USA
Feedback on the article 'Teach Children
The Joy of Giving' by Mrs. Rita Bruce
Sai Ram,
Sai Ram Professor Venkataraman, I am a young parent. I think parents now need more info
like this to do their parenting duties properly. The world is
Your articles on the above topic are simply mind-
in such a state that raising kids is becoming a challenging
boggling. It is a wonderful insight into our Father's
task for poor parents. Please put more articles about Sai

YOUR SAY
parenting and how parents should handle the teenage have read her story, I will check in with Heart 2 Heart in the
years of their kids. I think teenage years are the most future.
difficult parenting time. Barbara Robbins,
Regards, Connecticut, USA.
Saiyinthie Yogesan,
Perth, Australia.
Dear Heart to Heart Team,

Thank you very much for the touching article. It reminds
Aum Sai Ram, us that provided we are focussed on God and immersed
I am a single parent (widowed), with 2 little kids (ages 6 in Him, He is always there to take care of us.
and 8) and over the years, I cannot explain how Sai Sairam,
Parenting has influenced my life! If I cannot find a P.Vijayaraghavan,
solution to an issue in my home, I take my Sai Parenting Chennai.
out and read it. I call it my bible. Over the years, I have had
the opportunity to give this as a gift to many parents,
showing them very simply what our beloved Sai requires. Feedback on the article
Thank you and I hope every parent will be blessed with a 'The Wonderful Mother That I Have'
copy. Please forward more articles on parenting so that
by Mrs. Geeta Mohan Ram.
we can live the correct way with Swami's teachings at
Dear Sir,
hand.
I loved the article so much that I made prints of them to
Joan Reddy,
be distributed to those who come for bhajans. I know
RMB Private Bank, Relationship Manager. Swami is God but time and again I need to be reminded of
this. 20 years ago I was told that Swami likes the ladies to
Feedback on the article be dressed well and I did not believe it - how wrong I was.
'A Mother Like No Other' by Mrs. Mallika Desu Please tell us more about devotees' experiences with
Swami. I live through these experiences and I get a
Sairam, glimpse of His Power and Glory.
Mallika Desu's article was indeed very moving and Navena

thrilling. We can vividly imagine Sai ma extending the
same love and protection to us too at all times! Please do Feedback on the article 'From Lord Buddha
publish more articles like this in future issues. To Loving Sai' By Mr. Ananda Perera
Thank you and Sairam to you, with love,
Saraswathy, Dear Sir,
Chennai I read this article on the Poornima day this month. I feel I
am trice blessed by our beloved Sai (buddha). "Buddha
Poornima or Vesak is considered a thrice blessed day by
Buddhists." I would like to consciously follow the 8 fold
path and discover and be aware of my inner-self. I would
Sai Ram, like to attain harmony of thoughts, words and deed and
I enjoyed this powerful testimony to Swami's follow ahimsa in every facet of life.
omnipresent love. The story was written beautifully, with Love Sai Ram,
dramatic tension and release. I have not read any material Raji Bala,
on this website before, but because I know Mallika and
Indianapolis, USA.
SWAMI AND ME FEEDBACK FROM OUR READERS
Feedback on the Photo Album: realize Swami, this is a sure way in training ourselves to
Sweetness Unsurpassable! leave everything at HIS will and keep Him at our side at all
times.
Dear Radio Sai, Sairam, Jeyanthi Ghatraju,
We all are blessed to see such most wonderful and loving USA.
photographs of Bhagavan with children. As I was going
through the slide show, I felt as if Bhagavan has come to
Dear Heart2Heart team!
my office to bless me in Abu Dhabi and to remind me that
I am His child. I was very happy to see this slide show of First of all let me thank you for your great job you are
our Lord Bhagavan with children and it reminds me to doing for people. I read the article and felt how my heart
express love for children. responded. My name is Olga. I was born and studied in
Ukraine and then got married and moved to Estonia. It
I am grateful to Radio Sai for taking all the pains and
happened that my marriage ended in divorce and it was
sincere efforts to show us such beautiful photographs
the most difficult time for me. I lived with my son, but was
which we can never dream of seeing. The photographs of
depressed and miserable. I started searching for help
touching moments of our most dearest and beloved
when once I met Swami's devotee who literally saved my
Bhagavan (our Mother Sai) also remind us of the recent
life. I am so thankful to her for her love, support and
celebration of Easwarama day. I once again request you
patience. I am also thankful to my parents who taught me
to send us more such beautiful photographs, so that we
that everything in life is achieved through nothing but
can enjoy more and more happiness.
hard work. It also helps me to survive.
With Love and regards, Sairam,
Thank you for the opportunity to read Swami's teachings.
G.Ramprasad,
The topic of education is very close to me since I am
Abu Dhabi. bringing up a boy and work at school. This article helped
me to realise how important is bringing up a good
General Feedback character, how far I was from it and to do something to
make things happen to sow at least one seed of love,
Dear H2H team, peace and happiness.
Thank you for such inspirational stories. We all tend to Thank you,
loose faith sometimes when things don't go our way. But Olga Borodina.
after reading these stories I think that at any given
circumstance we should keep our faith strong. Shraddha
and Saburi should be the only things we should keep in
our minds.
Dear Sai Devotees,
Sonal Acharya,
Sai Ram. Thanks for the lovely interviews you send to all
of us through Heart2Heart. I enjoy these interviews
especially with people who were so intimately involved
with Swami -- I just read the one with Prof Kasturi's
Sai Ram, daughter. Thanks a lot - please continue to do Swami's
As with many articles I've read, I'm touched by the many work we appreciate all that you do. I am originally from
experiences of devotees, especially the students and how Mumbai, India but have been living all over the world
much Swami cares for them under various circumstances. (Japan, Korea, UK, Qatar, Singapore,) and presently in
I'm starting to feel the closeness although I've not seen Jakarta Indonesia. And I have seen Swami's
Swami so far physically and have not been a Balvikas manifestations all over the world.
student. Please keep publishing such stories of Regards, Sai Ram,
reassurance. For those like me, who started late in life to Bina Mayur

YOUR SAY
Sai Ram Sai Ram,

My name is Suman Govindan. I am writing from the US. I I just wish to let you know how much I like Sai Inspires and
read both articles on Swami as the Mother written by its link with The Thought for the Day. Swami is so
Karuna Munshi and Mallika Desu, both of whom generous with us and has given and does continue to give
graduated from Anantapur College. The articles were us so much helpful information that it is difficult to find
beautifully written, articulate and inspiring and I'm so your way through it all. But I find Sai Inspires helpful
grateful that you bring these to us . because it is brief, easy to look at, has a nice picture of
It's wonderful to be at home and receive these treats Swami, and because there is a little statement telling
without leaving one's desk! what it is that Swami wishes us to think about. I like being
Sai Ram, helped out that way because my mind is not very
objective in its outlook and I have trouble summing
Suman Govindan,
things up.
New Canaan, USA.
So besides having the thought that someone has so nicely
chosen this for us to think about, there is The Thought for
Feedback on Sai Inspires, the Day which keeps us up to date with what Swami is
our daily inspirational e-mail service. saying right now. That is very nice. Just those two pieces
are all I can manage for the day. What treasures you offer
Sai Ram,
us. Thank you ever so much for all your kindness and
Eight years back I lived in Sri Lanka, and every morning consideration.
after I dropped my daughter to her girls college in
Sai Ram to you all at Heart 2 Heart,
Colombo, I went to the Sai Centre to read the daily
Lakshmi Parimala Mahadevan,
message and spent five minutes per day to make my mind
calm and clear. Now I am in Australia, and I have the New York, USA.
opportunity to read the daily message at my work. How
wonderful it is. Thank you very much for giving me this
opportunity.
Regards, Dear Editors of Heart2Heart,
Ashini Kangaraarachchi, This thank you note is long overdue. Thank you for this
Data Management Engineer, Canada. excellent service--the words you select from the vast
collection of Swami's writings and speeches always seem
the right message at right time.
Sai Ram, With lots of love and gratitude,
To all of you at Heart to Heart, Sai Ram. Jeroo Captain
Thank you for all these beautiful and true messages I – Heart2Heart Team
receive from Swami everyday. For some strange reason
there is always an answer in these messages over things I
have been pondering over or thinking of and looking for
an answer! It helps and guides me through my days and
I'm so glad I have this contact with Swami and yourselves.
I do hope that I would one day get the oportunity to meet
with Swami and yourselves!
Take Care, Kind regards,
Suvani Naidoo,
South Africa.
SWAMI AND ME SAI INSPIRES
a daily inspirational
e-mail service from the
When acts are done as offering to God, one will not be elated at success or
disheartened by failure, for, He prompts, He helps, He grants joy or grief as He
wills, as He cares. The doer will have no attachment to the fruit of the deed; so, he
will not be bound to its consequence; it will leave no trace on his personality which
will shape him beyond death.
- Divine Discourse, July 18, 1990

Love all Serve all

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Volume 5 Issue 6 www.radiosai.

org 1st June 2007

mail us for details : h2h@radiosai.org

BETWEEN YOU AND US 3

SATHYA SAI SPEAKS - THE KEY TO LASTING BLISS 5

CONVERSATIONS WITH SAI - Part 33 6

CHINNA KATHA - SELF-CONFIDENCE, SUCCESS AND GOD'S GRACE 9

CANADA'S CROWN JEWEL - THE SATHYA SAI SCHOOL IN TORONTO 11

THE GREATEST WONDER OF THE WORLD 50

THE SAI MOVEMENT IN CHILE 36

IS THE WORLD A STAGE? 55

SHIRDI SAI PARTHI SAI - Part 30 52

GITA FOR CHILDREN - Part 31 55

WINDOW TO SAI SEVA

GLIMPSES OF STIRRING SEVA IN EUROPE 58

CHRONICLES OF HEAVEN ON EARTH 65

Contents 1 June 2007

THE BLISS OF HIS PRESENCE 100

LOVE THAT CANNOT BE DUPLICATED 106

DO WE NEED CHALLENGES? 110

A BEAUTIFUL RELATIONSHIP 111

IN THE COMPANY OF THE VIRTUOUS 113

TEST YOUR SPIRITUAL QUOTIENT

MULTI-FAITH QUIZ 114

QUIZ ON HEART 2 HEART 117

IT'S HEAVEN! GLIMPSES OF KODAI 2007 119

A MOTHER'S AGONY ...When desperation evokes divine intervention 123

FEEDBACK FROM OUR READERS 126

SAI INSPIRES 129

Dear Reader, transplanted on other soils and encouraged to grow,

as prophetic as it was profound. school in Puttaparthi where Swami's education mission is

SATHYA SAI SPEAKS

All worldly pleasures are transient and temporary. Very

People, the world

sadhana. What is meditation? Meditation controls

Seeing the Good in All

and treasure.” It was the Manthra of Mother Goddess

jungle and was intent on the meditation of the Mother,

happened to lose his way while traversing an area of thick

jungle. He lived in the reign of the famous Emperor

Krishnadeva Raya, of the Vijayanagara Dynasty, about

1500 AD. He was attached to the Court and was

honoured as a wise and quick-witted minister.

At midnight one day, the aboriginal Koyas of the forest

came into the temple with a goat which they sought to

offer as sacrifice to please Her and propitiate Her.

hand and a plate of milk-rice in another. He wanted to

know the consequences of eating either plate before

deciding which plate to ask for. She explained, “The

curds-rice will endow you with riches and economic

prosperity; the milk-rice will make you a wise scholar.

Now, make your choice.”

Kali was indignant and exclaimed that his impertinence

called for dire punishment. Ramakrishna accepted his

mistake and invited the punishment she proposed to

inflict. But can the Mother's punishment destroy the

child, however reprehensible the conduct of the child

may be? “My sentence will certainly save you, do not