The second day of the XI Sri Sathya Sai World Conference on the theme ‘Pathways to World Peace’ was observed with heartfelt offerings and speeches by dignitaries who are here to participate in Swami’s Centenary Celebrations.
The program began with a riveting talk by Ms Saritha Iyer, an associate professor at Ettumanoorappan College and a brilliant orator who combines her deep academic knowledge with the message of Sanathana Dharma. The devotee from Kerala reminded the audience how the study of Swami’s life and message through repeated reading will slowly transform us. This was followed by a loving musical offering by the Young Adults from the Sri Sathya Sai Global Council. Popular devotional songs and those celebrating Swami’s birthday were presented soulfully by the youth.
Dr V Mohan, Trustee, SSSCT, welcomed the guests and delegates to Puttaparthi, which is the sacred Janmabhoomi and Karmabhoomi. When the speaker asked the audience to define Swami with one word, the congregation resounded with the answer, “Love”. He went on to explain in his talk the difference between Swami’s love, which is, in essence, divine, and worldly love. This was followed by a profound audio-visual presentation on the theme, ‘Dissolving the Individual, bringing out the purpose of the Sri Sathya Sai Organisations as revealed by Swami Himself.
Sri Nimish Pandya, All India President, SSSSO and Vice-Chairman, SSSGC, reiterated the message in his address, reminding all that the Swami’s Organisation is open to all who wish to transform themselves. The next to address the gathering was Sri Ashok Chavan, former CM of Maharashtra and present Member of Rajya Sabha, and more importantly, a long-standing devotee of Bhagawan. He recalled his 55-year association with Swami since his first darshan as a boy of 5, and how each visit fills him with the confidence that Swami’s grace is with him at all times.
Mr Devendra Fadnavis, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra, then delivered his address to the assembly of devotees. Making a reference to ‘Pasayadan’, a heartfelt prayer in which Jnaneshvar Maharaj invokes his Guru’s blessings for the upliftment of all people, Sri Fadnavis said that when he looks at Bhagawan’s life of service to humanity, it verily embodies the sentiment of this noble prayer. He noted how Bhagawan’s work has reached even distant corners untouched by His holy physical feet. He also expressed his delight in being in Prasanthi for the first time, which was a wish that had been fulfilled after 11 years.
Dr Kambhampati Hari Babu, Hon’ble Governor of Odisha, the next guest of honour, delivering his address in Telugu and English, noted how the service initiatives of Bhagawan, like the drinking water project, have inspired many, including Government programs. He also commended the Government of Andhra Pradesh for declaring the historic milestone of Swami’s centenary as a state function and acknowledged the immense Seva performed by Swami’s devotees in the state of Odisha.
A special highlight of the morning was the launch of the Sri Sathya Sai Jeevana Upadhi initiative, through which 100 auto-rickshaws were presented to deserving beneficiaries from the state of Kerala. The distribution honours were performed by the hands of the esteemed dignitaries alongside Ms Sindhura Reddy (MLA) and Mr RJ Rathnakar (Managing Trustee, SSSCT) and other member trustees, symbolising empowerment, dignity, and Swami’s timeless mission of transforming lives through love in action.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17PVkwhmZW
https://www.sssmediacentre.org/gallery/692017d2c79104067a594878
