The serene precincts of Prasanthi Nilayam, sanctified by the eternal presence of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, bore witness to a profound and purposeful gathering today — the Sri Sathya Sai Human Values Conference. Organised by the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations – India, in association with the Centre for Sri Sathya Sai Studies, SSSIHL, this day-long conference unfolded under the inspiring theme, The Clarion Call for Universal Transformation.
The morning commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the Chief Guest, Mr Haribhau Kishanrao Bagde, Hon’ble Governor of Rajasthan, Dr Bhagwat Karad, Member of Rajya Sabha, alongside revered Trustees and officials. This was followed by sacred Vedic incantations, rendered by the students of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, filling the hall with auspicious vibrations.
In her opening remarks, Dr Suma, Chairperson of the Centre for Sri Sathya Sai Studies, eloquently articulated the vision behind the conference. She contextualised the event within the universal message of Bhagawan’s teachings, reminding the gathering that the purpose of life itself is to realise and radiate the innate human values that are the very essence of our being.
Sri Nimish Pandya (AIP – SSSSO), delivered the introductory address, warmly welcoming all participants. His words echoed the urgency of the hour — the need to weave human values into every fabric of daily life. Drawing inspiration from Bhagawan’s towering example, he stressed that love, truth, right conduct, peace, and non-violence are not ideals to be admired from afar but practical tools to be lived with conviction and courage.
The special address by Swami Sarvottamananda ji, Vice-Chancellor of Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Kolkata, offered deep insights from an Atmic perspective. Speaking with the authority of Vedantic wisdom, Swami ji delved into the ‘what, why, and how’ of human values in contemporary society. He emphasised that Swami evokes the very Essence of Love and that love is the unifying principle permeating all existence. His reflections on selflessness and empathy as the cornerstones of true transformation left an indelible impact on the audience.
In his keynote, Chief Guest Mr Haribhau Kishanrao Bagde shared heartfelt reflections on the life and legacy of Bhagawan, highlighting the enduring relevance of spirituality in contemporary life. Speaking in Hindi, he recalled how Bhagawan’s work exemplifies the timeless truth of the Bhagavad Gita, which proclaims that God is present in every being, and thus, serving the needy and the poor is nothing less than serving God Himself.
He lauded the pioneering social service initiatives undertaken by Bhagawan, describing them as unparalleled and truly commendable—particularly the monumental drinking water project in rural Anantapur district and other regions, which transformed countless lives by restoring dignity and hope to the most underserved communities. Reflecting on India’s rich spiritual heritage, Mr Bagde spoke of the Gurukul-based educational model that once formed the backbone of a value-centered society, a legacy that Swami revived by placing Human Values at the very heart of education and daily living. He emphasised that in today’s fragmented world, Swami’s universal values are the need of the hour, as they alone can uplift the individual and make one a better human being.
A historic moment followed as the Prasanthi Declaration on Universal Human Values was ceremoniously unveiled by the Chief Guest and dignitaries before the Sanctum Sanctorum — a fitting tribute to the universal and transformative message of Bhagawan’s life and teachings.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1GpmXDwLkh
https://www.sssmediacentre.org/gallery/686e1701f6248231a8c0ab08
