Premabandham North America Alumni Meet

July 2011

A Premabandham

Moment

Think of Me

Dearest Loved One

You ask, “How will you know when

I am near you?”

When on a sultry night

Everything is hot and still,

The first cool breeze

Brushes your cheeks

Think of Me

When the pangs of hunger are satisfied

And lonesome is pierced by happiness

Think of Me.

When your mouth is parched

And you can hardly speak,

The first sip of cool water

I am soothing you

Think of Me.

When I sprinkle your face with cold rain

And wash the earth, the dry brown leaves,

The first smell of clear rain

I am cleansing you

Think of Me.

When pain dissolves

And tears disappear

Think of Me.

When steadfast eyes are horrified

By the cruelties of life,

The first glance of the silent setting sun

I am comforting you

Think of Me.

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Then you ask “How will you know when you are near Me?”

When the burning sun

Has scorched you and the earth,

The Sand and dust fill your eyes

Not a sliver of shade about

And you love Me.

When loneliness is accompanied by

Hunger and not one can be satisfied

And you love Me.

When your lips are cracked

Your tongue feels like clay

Your throat seals up

There is no water about

Not even a mirage in sight

And you love Me.

When pain becomes unbearable, you smile

And you love Me.

When I take from you

Your most cherished possession,

On the first loss of sight

Darkness envelopes

And you love Me.

For everything that you see, hear, smell, taste or touch belongs to Me. So how can you give to me what I already own but your love. And that, I gave you before time began as your soul’s possession. When you return it to Me then I will know you are truly Mine and I will dissolve your sorrow and happiness into Me—that one being Me, I will place you in bliss forever. For, I love and think of you constantly.

From Your Most Loving Father

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Contents

Editorial 08

Preface G. S. Srirangarajan 09

1. Sai - Mother Of The Universe Srinivas Eyyunni 10

2. Think Of The Lord And He Thinks Of You Saroj Pradhan 11

3. Footprints In The Sand Arun Uthayan 12

4. A Bond Of Everlasting And Endless Love Gopi Krishna Polavarapu 14

5. Swami‘s Compassion Shanti Polavarapu 15

6. Swami—My Music Teacher Aditya Kalvagunta 16

7. Hey! I Know God And God Knows Me Abhimanyu Kaul 20

8. The All-Knowing Divine Mother Sridharan Hariharan 23

9. The Call Gopal Coimbatore 24

10. From Darkness Unto Light Sritulasi Karri 25

11. I Am Always With You Sai Latha Shankar 26

12. The Divine Master Of Ceremony Sankara and Ramaa Loganathan 27

13. From Army Boy To Swami Boy Bharat Datt 29

14. Love Story 1949 Padmaja Nandini Datt 30

15. Swami From The Word Go Gunika Datt 31

16. Shower Of Grace Bala Swaminathan 32

17. Swami‘s Copious Concern And Love Mahesh Kumar Karwa 34

18. Swami‘s Ways Are Unique And Incredible S. Lakshminarayan 36

19. Is The Food Spicy? And How Is The Rasam? Gayathri Narayan 37

20. I Give You More Than What You Deserve Sankara Kailasam 39

21. I Will Take Care of Your Children Nirmala Kailasam 40

22. I Love Swami Sahana Sai Narayan 40

23. Divine Mother‘s Love Is Absolutely Selfless Mohan Kumar HG 41

24. Swami Is Present In Every Aspect Of Our Lives Sunitha Gangappa 42

25. Reminiscences And Experiences With Bhagawan Niranjan Ramji 45

26. Mother Sai—The Eternal Source Of Confidence S. Chandrasekhar 47

27. Swami For Me Vishudhi Chandrasekhar 48

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28. In The Sunshine Of Sai‘s Love Mayur Pandya 50

29. Down Divine Memory Lane Anuradha Pandya 51

30. In The Footsteps Of Sai Maansi Pandya 52

31. Close To My Heart Anuj Pandya 53

32. Divine Mother Sai Balasubramanyam Karanam 54

33. Omnipresent Sai Deepa Devarakonda 55

34. I Am Always With You, In You, Around You Raj Patel 58

35. Swami‘s Love For His Children Sri Kotti 60

36. An Important Lesson Learnt At The Lotus Feet Krishnan Shankar 62

37. Swami‘s Assurance That He Is Always With Me Mangala Shankar 63

38. Swami = Love Sunil Paladugu 65

39. Swami And I Sai Siva Kumar Dakshinamurthy 66

40. The Ever-Caring One Lui Muniz 68

41. Life Through Swami‘s Eyes Sai Sravan Cherukuri 70

42. Swami—My Beloved Sai Saketh Cherukuri 71

43. Divine Parent Sai Keerthana Cherukuri 72

44. My All-Knowing Sai Venkatesh Iyer Srinivasan 73

45. Thank You, Swami Nikhil Venkatesh 75

46. My Gratitude To Swami Vijaya Venkatesh 75

47. When Alone, I Am God Sathya Sankar Gopalan 78

48. Prema Bhakti Se Bhajana Sunao Sowmya Sankar Gopalan 79

49. Om Sri Sai Aapad Bandhavaaya Namaha Bhanumathy Gopalan 80

50. A Letter To My Sweet Swami Shreya Sankar Gopalan 81

51. Swami Is My True Mother And Father Karthik Srinivas 82

52. The Loving Touch Of Mother Sai‘s Hand Kushala Yedatore 83

53. Home Is Where The Heart Is Vikas Lama 86

54. Namah Kritsnaveethaya Dhavate Satvanam Pataye Namaha Venkata Ramana Kotamraju 88

55. Our Pledge Renewed Gopi Krishna Polavarapu 90

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Editorial Dear Readers,

―Everything is suffused with Prema (Divine Love), so we can unhesitatingly call the Paramatma as Premaswarupa‖, said Swami. As students of His educational system, we were blessed to be recipients of Swami‘s bountiful, divine and pure Love on a daily basis. Thus developed the Premabandham or the unique bond of Love between Swami and each of His students. After completing our studies at the Lotus Feet of our most beloved Bhagawan, Swami directed us to pursue our professional careers always keeping Him in our minds. We sharpened our skills, got higher degrees, made our careers in various walks of life and spread across the world. Some of us assumed the responsibilities of a householder. Many joined the Sai organizational activities at the local or regional levels. Last year during the January 1st, 2010 Alumni meet, Swami had expressed a wish to spend more time with smaller groups of students. This triggered the birth of ―Premabandham‖ visits by groups of alumni to spend exclusive time with our Dearest Lord. The alumni settled in North America sought Swami‘s permission in early 2011 to come to Parthi for our Premabandham with Swami in July 2011. Swami in His infinite grace and Love gave His blessings. Although we alumni will deeply feel the absence of Swami‘s physical Presence during this Premabandham visit to Parthi, Swami is with us in our hearts and we will be with our ―Hridaya Sai‖. We will always be guided by His everlasting Prema.

As an offering of gratitude to our beloved Swami, the North American alumni comprising of alumni from USA, Canada and Mexico have put together this booklet describing our individual interactions with Swami and how those unique ―Premabandham moments‖ have transformed our lives. Alumni of Prasanthi Nilayam and Brindavan campuses have contributed articles that show the amazing individual and personal attention that Swami had given to each alumnus during the course of their education at Swami‘s temples of higher learning. These experiences leave us speechless, bring joy-filled tears to our eyes and above all encapsulate the magnificent majesty and infinite love of our merciful Lord. In addition to the alumni articles, the spouses, children and parents of alumni have also eagerly contributed heartfelt articles capturing the impact of Swami in their lives. Together, these articles illustrate the presence and the light of Swami brightly lit in the alumni homes and hearts, and reinforce that Swami is always with us guiding us each step of the way.

Working together as an editorial team was enriching, illuminating and a rewarding experience for all of us. We are deeply grateful to all the contributors of articles that make up this booklet and we are sure it was a heart-filling experience for each of them, penned with love for Swami. We would also like to express our sincere thanks to Mr. G.S. Srirangarajan, Controller of Examinations, Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning for graciously agreeing to write the Preface. We hope that this offering would inspire the alumni spread across the globe to similarly express their love for Sai and come together to chronicle the endless individual stories of how the Lord had touched each of us during His earthly sojourn.

With Sincere Gratitude and Love to Swami,

The Editorial Team

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Preface

Divine Love cannot be described in words or encapsulated in definitions. God is Love. Love is God. Just as God transcends mental comprehension, Divine Love too transcends worldly understanding. Bhagawan Baba says, ―I separated Myself from Myself to Love Myself‖. Love is the Cosmic Glue that manifests in this process of Self-separation, to ensure ultimate union. If God is like the Super Magnet, Divine Love is like the magnetic force that does not allow the ―separated‖ particles to move beyond its bounds.

As students of Swami, we got, not just a glimpse of this phenomenon of Love but were literally subsumed by it. Here‘s one short anecdote to just have a dip into the ocean of Love. It was the month of May 1992. My first personal interview with Bhagawan found me sitting face to face with the Lord. He asked, ―What do you want‖ and my eyes replied with a downpour! The small dynamo could not withstand the powerful energy of the Cosmic generator. What could I say, when the heart was full. I wondered how He would respond. Instantly, as a loving mother, He took His own handkerchief and started wiping my tears! I was overwhelmed. ―Ask‖, He said, ―time is short‖!

What an irony! The Timeless chose to bind itself within the limits of time. And as the clock kept ticking away mercilessly, He was always looking out for spreading His Love every second.

Having tasted the nectar of Divine Love, the Alumni of the Institute keep coming back to His Lotus Feet, like bees swarming to the flower. The first organized meet of the alumni, in significantly large numbers, aptly called ―Reconnect‖ took place in the year 2005. Thereafter, Swami, very compassionately, permitted all gents alumni to gather at His Feet every year end, ushering them into a new year in His Divine Presence.

Like the soaring river that rushes out to engulf everything in its way, Swami next chose to bless the parents and the family members of the alumni. He asked them to come in small numbers so that He could shower undivided attention on them. Thus was born the ―Premabandham‖. The first such meet took place from 14th to 16th August 2010. Today this saga goes on and alumni in year-wise or region-wise batches visit Parthi to bask in His Divine Omnipresence.

Bhagawan used His form as an instrument only to delight us, but His Love knew no such bounds. Today, although the beautiful Form is not amongst us, His overpowering Love and Presence is felt everywhere by everyone.

In January 2011, the SSSIHL Alumni settled in North America sought blessings and permission from Bhagawan to come to His Lotus Feet on the 30th and 31st of July. Bhagawan lovingly blessed them. This offering is a compilation of experiences by North America Alumni and their family members, that can be aptly called the 'Premabandham moment'; a moment that each student had with Swami - a moment where Swami's intense Love transformed them, forever. I am sure as we read these, we will relive those wonderful moments and lose ourselves in His Love.

G.S. Srirangarajan

Controller of Examinations

Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning

Prasanthinilayam

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We call our Divine Lord as Mother and Father, because it is from our parents that we begin to recognize Love. Mother Sai‘s Love folds around us as protectively as the arms that used to comfort us as children, wiping away tears and applying healing balms.

In November of 2002, my mother was ailing with the last stages of cancer. She had always believed in the concept of abject surrender to God. She was my Guru, from the beginning to the very end and remains my example of the ideal devotee. By placing me with Swami, her duties as a mother and as my Guru found their ultimate fulfillment, and she merged in Swami on November 16 th leaving me with the reminiscences of her noble teachings forever.

After finishing the traditional rites and ablutions, I had the great opportunity to be part of the Annual Alumni meet. The Music Program by Students Alumni was scheduled for Jan 1st 2003. Around noon on that first day of 2003, a group of students were rehearsing our music. We received word from Swami that Swami had pruned the eighteen musical offering numbers to a final list of only six. To my astonishment, I was most humbly placed among the six!

After his divine discourse he advised the boys to begin the Music Program. I sang the song in Telugu: ―Nee Vanti Talli Verekkadaina Kanduma, Neevanti Daivamu Verevvaraina Undura, Leru Leru Leru Nee Saati Evaru Leru, Talli Maa paali Kalpavalli‖

As the pace of the tablas and our racing hearts stilled, Swami glided (for what we do with our feet is very different to how Swami moves!) towards me and inquired about me. He commended my voice and encouraged me to practice and improve my breath-control. The Jaganmaata then blessed me with a golden chain and placed it around my neck. Only Swami can give care to each minute detail. He opened the hook of the chain and adorned the chain round my neck. Gesturing for me remove my spectacles, He draped the chain round my neck and then again asked me to put my spectacles back on.

It was my Poorvajanma Sukruta that I was indeed doubly blessed that I could get the Paadanamaskaar (touching the Divine Lotus Feet) from Swami. When I touched Swami‘s feet, I could see and feel my mother‘s feet instead of Swami!!! I was very surprised. Maybe this was another reassurance from Swami that she had merged with him and that I was safe under the umbrella of his divine Grace. This was the most memorable moment in my life which reiterated my conviction, faith and reinforced my mother‘s words that SAI is the Mother of Mothers, the LokaMaata, the Kalpataruvu (wish fulfilling Tree). Swami wholly confirmed to me that He would keep me forever in the palm of His Hands as the Jaganmaata.

(Srinivas studied in the Parthi campus from 1987 to 1990 completing his B.Sc. Degree. He currently lives in Irving, Texas, USA)

Sai - Mother of the Universe Srinivas Eyyunni

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I was one of the fortunate students to join Swami during the summer of 1992 for the most cherished trip to Kodaikanal. I was in a state of trance from the time I was chosen as one of the students to accompany Swami till the trip actually began. When the D-day finally arrived, we all left Brindavan early in the morning in a long caravan of vehicles. There was vedam chanting by the boys to see Swami off on His long trip. Swami left in His car first, followed by another car and then the Institute bus carrying all His boys.

The bus ride from Brindavan to Kodaikanal itself was a lifetime experience. Every now and then, Swami used to pull over for devotees waiting and singing bhajans for His darshan. And for the boys, our bus used to get loaded with more fresh food which meant that we went on eating. We had lunch at one of Swami's very devout devotee‘s home near Salem. There was so much food served, we just could not resist any. The fun began when our bus had a flat tire near Palani. Swami's caravan had to go ahead as there were programs scheduled for Him in Coimbatore. Swami is so thoughtful of everybody in His caravan that, when He went ahead, He had stopped at a garage and sent them back to fix our bus. By the time we reached Coimbatore, Swami was already at the host's house for dinner and waiting for us.

It was a lovely dinner and then off we went to Kodaikanal. We reached Swami‘s residence, Sai Shruti, late at night. Swami showed all of us where we would be spending a month with Him in Kodaikanal. He showed our bedrooms and then our rest rooms. By that time, all the eating I had done the whole day, from the time we left

Brindavan till we reached Kodaikanal started taking a toll on my stomach. I badly wanted to go to the restroom. Since it was late, and it was our first evening with Swami in Kodaikanal, Swami graciously agreed to spend couple of minutes with us before retiring for the night. But first, He asked all of us to freshen up and gather downstairs. I thought I will take this opportunity to relive my stomach of its pain. By the time I was done and wanted to go inside the house, I was saddened to find the door leading inside the house was locked. I could hear a lot of laughter and understood that everyone was having so much fun inside. I just could not believe I had to spend my first evening in Kodaikanal with Swami like this, locked out of the room.

After around 10 minutes, brother Dilip (fellow-student) came upstairs to open the door and find out what I was doing for so long. I told him how much I missed my first evening, but not after what he told me. He explained that somebody had to close the door because there was smoke from the kitchen coming into the room. Dilip told me that Swami was all the time talking about me and joking about my situation. That‘s why everybody was laughing till their stomachs ached. And then Dilip made this comment, ―You were thinking about Swami from here and He was thinking about you all the time, though we were around Him‖. This made me realize Swami‘s love for us and how He thinks of us every moment.

(Saroj studied in the Brindavan and Parthi campuses from 1990 to 1997 completing his B.Sc., M.Sc. and M.Tech. Degrees. He currently lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA)

Think of the Lord and He Thinks of You Saroj Pradhan

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In January of 2010, I was able to attend the New Year reunion of the alumni of Sathya Sai Students, for the first time. The short stay brought back memories of my student days, a quarter century ago, with more poignancy than any of the other visits to Puttaparthi. It was the beginning of the celebration of Swami‘s 85th Birthday and the sense of love and gratitude emanating from the large number of students who had assembled, elevated the levels of positive energy that I felt around me.

After two glorious days, Swami was expected to have a private meeting with the alumni on 2nd January. The day dawned and all the alumni were going about arrangements with great anticipation. The excitement was quite palpable. I could not help imagining how I would recollect this visit in the future. However, that train of thought did not go very far. On the contrary, it turned out to be a train wreck. As I was imagining myself recounting the experiences to family and friends, I was reminded of the condition of my twin sons. All the joy that I had been experiencing till then drained away.

My sons were entering their teenage years. When they were very young, it was my hope that they turn out to be ardent devotees of Swami. In keeping with this dream, they were taught to chant the Gayathri, when they turned two. Their daily play which comprised of singing bhajans, waving arathi and distributing vibhuthi, gave joy to all of us at home. But, around their third birthday, things took a turn for the worse. Slowly, they stopped paying attention to their surroundings and to anyone around them. They were lost in their own world. Subsequently, they were diagnosed with autism. The ten years since

the diagnosis, brought our family many challenges and trials. My wife and I muddled through them falteringly. Solutions to most of the problems, we faced, showed up after long struggles and agonizing waits. There were multiple challenges to deal with at any given time. We clung desperately to prayer and were somehow trudging through life.

So, on that day, while looking forward to the evening with Swami, the thought that I will never be able to communicate my joy to my sons, put a stop to my exhilaration. From then on, my state of mind spiraled downward. A cloud of melancholy settled on me and seemed to gain weight as time passed. I was not looking forward to the evening anymore. In my mental mirror the most painful events of the preceding ten years flashed continuously. Life ahead seemed too barren.

I somehow managed to bring myself to attend th e ev en ing s es s i on . As I en t e re d the Poornachandra Auditorium, I was informed that I had been assigned a small chore. It was to be my privilege to welcome Swami along with another alumnus by offering flowers at the entrance. I cannot say that I was overjoyed at the opportunity. I was not confident that my state of mind will allow me to do a good job. The inability to even muster a smile would seriously handicap me from providing a joyous welcome the occasion demanded. Half heartedly, I sat down and wondered what I should do.

The other alumnus, who was to offer the flowers showed up with two bouquets of roses. In order to show some interest in getting to know him, I asked him about his profession. The

Footprints in the Sand Arun Uthayan

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answer and the ensuing exchange gave me a jolt. He t urn ed o ut t o b e a d evel o pm enta l psychiatrist, who was familiar with autism and was working with a renowned developmental specialist in London, UK. The reason for my surprise is that in the past ten years I had made several attempts at contacting doctors and developmental specialists, who may have been able to help us with any number of issues related to our sons. But, I had never been successful. The ones I had encountered turned out to be either ignorant or dismissive. Some were even out to exploit the situation. To put it mildly, there had never been a positive encounter with anyone from the medical establishment. I had given up the quest and solely relied on common sense to deal with issues that surfaced. But, here I was half way around the world and to be meeting

someone so familiar with the topic among the thousands of alumni gathered there was surreal.

There was a hush in the hall. I sprang to my feet and was ready to welcome. When Swami entered, I extended the flowers with the smile of a lifetime. His loving glance seemed to pass through me and his hands caressed the flowers gently. The procession passed me and I turned to follow it with my eyes.

In my heart, I saw a bed of sand stretching as far as eyes could see, with a long trail of foot prints, left by a pair of feet – of my Beloved Sai.

(Arun studied in the Parthi campus from 1979 to 1986 completing his High School, B.Com. and M.Com. Degrees . He currently lives in Toronto, Ontario, Canada)

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December 1980: As a 7-year old kid when I was asked by my parents and aunts if I would like to study in a hostel, I immediately said ―Yes‖, not even knowing what the implications of a ‗hostel‘ meant. Shocked at my apparent spontaneity, when mom asked ―Are you sure? It would mean that you will have to stay away from me‖, I still nodded a ‗yes‘ although I still do not understand what made me say that. Even my aunts, who had just passed out of the Anantapur college and brought with them an application form for admission into the newly opened Primary School at Parthi , were pleasantly surprised as it seemed so much easier than expected. No convincing was needed, no cajoling was required. And so they started off on the two-day long journey to Puttaparthi, with this 7-year old who had not heard such a name before. I vaguely remember them mentioning ‗Sai Baba‘, ‗Swami‘ and words like that which did not mean anything to me then.

Having settled into the room in East Prashanti, we all freshened up and that evening I was whisked away to the building that looked like a temple right opposite to the room we stayed. We sat on the soft sand. I recall looking around wondering why there are so many people sitting there and what‘s going to happen next. A sudden hush, a pin drop silence and everyone staring towards the veranda in the ‗temple like building‘. I heard a very soft humming sound ‗AUM‘ and before it faded away into the light evening breeze, an orange-robed person glided out from the veranda onto the sands, walking straight towards us. As He approached us, I just sat there watching like everyone else until He came closer, standing

right in front of me. The gaze of His eyes into mine as I looked back innocently is an indelible memory etched in my mind and heart forever. It was a few seconds of intense bonding that made even the 7 year old feel that he belonged there. It was a homecoming. What followed was 10 years of growing up under His watchful eye. Growing up – physically, mentally, spiritually. No special interviews or conversations, but innumerable moments of experiencing His love, sometimes motherly, sometimes fatherly, always Godly.

Having grown up to be a 17-year old, like any adolescent son, I felt I needed to ‗see the world‘, I needed to leave ‗home‘. And so I did, not returning for many years. Yet, every step of my way, He was there, watching over me with the same intensity of His love, just as He did during all my growing-up years—a Love that I almost took for granted.

Fast forward twenty long years to August 2010. Realizing what I had done or rather not done during these 20 years, full of remorse, I immersed myself into the activities of the local Sai Center in Phoenix. And on one such day of service activity, after having donated blood, I sat in the hall playing videos of Swami to all the devotees and non-devotees who had gathered there for the blood drive. Seeing those videos took me back through time to the golden age of my life, my growing-up years at His feet. After a long day in the desert sun, I returned home with the satisfaction of having participated in a wonderful service activity. As the tiredness took over and put me into a deep sleep, He appeared. Walking and giving Darshan, just as He had done thirty years ago as the 7-year old watched. He beckoned me to come to Him and the

A Bond of Everlasting and Endless Love Gopi Krishna Polavarapu

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emotions burst. I hugged Him tight, pleading forgiveness for having left home and at times even having forsaken Him and silently thanking Him for still being there every moment, picking me up when I fell, patting me on my back when I did well. As I hugged and wept, He caressed me ever so lovingly and said in His soft voice, ―Don‘t worry. Just be good to everyone‖. I looked into His eyes then. It was the same intense gaze that He had given me 30 years ago.

He had not changed a bit, no matter how much I had changed, no matter that I hadn‘t returned home to see Him. It was a moment of truth; a moment that reiterated the strength of the bond – the bond of His everlasting and endless love – a moment of Premabandham.

(Gopi studied in the Parthi campus from 1981 to 1991 completing his High School . He currently lives in Toronto, Ontario, Canada)

I knew Swami for all the wrong reasons before I got married. I never believed in people who wore orange robes. After I got married, I came to know that my husband and his side of the family and most of his relatives were Swami‘s devotees. I pitied them for being very gullible and was very proud that I did not fall into such things. I asked him as to what he thought about Swami, his simple reply was ‗GOD‘. I was surprised and even felt pity that he believed anybody to be GOD. I am inherently a very spiritual person but just did not believe in the so-called Swamis. However, I was surprised when I found that six months into my marriage, I still could not catch my husband telling a lie. Further, he was calm, always smiling and never got angry. I was always thinking, ―How can there be such a person‖. Then there was this BBC video about Swami. I could not wait to show it to my husband and question his belief. When I actually showed it to him, he just smiled it away calmly. He never argued about Swami‘s Godliness or forced me to believe in Him.

My curiosity increased and I first started with all the negative things that were circulating around on the internet about Swami. Every now and then I used to go to my husband with lots of

doubts and he always cleared every doubt with very good reasoning. I am normally very difficult to convince but he always convinced me calmly. This went on for a while and it took almost a year for me to have an open mind. I then earnestly started reading about Swami, His service activities and all the books written by Swami. For the next two years I read everything I could about Swami. Surprisingly, I always found myself to be happy and peaceful during these times. His books had such a calming effect and brought so much peace into my mind.

I used to always think that all the Babas who wore orange robes only ‗talked‘ about God. But here was Swami, leading by example everything He taught. And His teachings were so profound, yet so easy to understand, so easy to practice. I asked my husband to take me to Parthi. I made my first trip in 2009 to see Swami and had a wonderful darshan. I always used to search for different meanings of GOD and now, all my questions are answered. I feel Swami sent His student as my husband, to answer all my questions and bring me closer to Him. Now, I am completely immersed in the Sai way of life. It is the greatest transformation to have occurred to me.

Swami’s Compassion Shanti Polavarapu

Spouse of Gopi Krishna Polavarapu

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I am grateful for a great many things from Swami. Without His invisible hand my life would have been very different. But the biggest gift He bestowed on me was the gift of music. Through music He taught me life‘s lessons of hard work and patience and the importance of humility. These lessons will always be with me. As a child I was never interested in bhajans or singing in general. In fact, I used to be of the opinion that singing and music is for girls, and boys are meant to play sports and do other more adventurous things. Coming from this viewpoint to eventually singing in the Mandir for him was quite a turnaround. As Surdas says: Jaake kripa Pangu Giri Langhe, Andhe Ko Sab Kuch Darsaye-God can make a lame man leap a mountain and will make a blind man see. He taught me how to sing bhajans.

As a family, we had known about Swami for many years but did not become serious devotees till the year 1992. This was the year my father went to Prasanthi Nilayam as a sevadal for the first time. He was a career army officer and invariably he would get security detail either in the Mandir or at the boy‘s hostel. While at the boy‘s hostel, he saw that the students were a disciplined lot, were groomed well and most importantly Swami and His teachers trained them really well. He was sold; he wanted me and my brother to be students as well. He applied for me to join the 11th grade. We went to Prasanthi Nilayam for the entrance test and the only questions I remember the school teachers asking me in the interview were whether I attend bhajans and if I could sing a bhajan for them. The bhajan I sang was Manasa Bhajare Guru Charanam. In retrospect it was a

very poor rendition of the Bhajan. But Swami is very patient and I found myself a student in grade 11 in the Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School.

During those first few months, the highlight of the day was the bhajans in the evening, sung by the students. The moment the bhajans started, the atmosphere would change and I would be transported to a different world. This was divine music. I believed that only God could create this kind of music and this made me want to sing for Him. I, however, did not know where to start. I had no previous interest in music. I needed guidance. My desire was intense and I started praying to Swami. I wrote letters to Him and would ask other senior students for tips to improve. The Music teacher in the Boys Hostel, Dr. Shailesh Shrivastava encouraged me a lot. His constant advice was that I needed to practice. To concentrate on singing and on improving myself, I decided to not go home for the Diwali vacation that year. This was the year 1996. During the vacation the added bonus was that there were fewer students in Parthi and this meant more interaction with Swami. I was also a part of the University Brass band and played the cymbals. During this time Swami called a few of us band members and Dr.Shailesh Srivastava for an interview. A famous Italian conductor Professor Giuseppe Savazzi was teaching us Western music at that time and he was called for the interview as well. During the interview Swami repeatedly told Dr Savazzi to train the boys to be the best musicians. Swami‘s expectations for His students are very high, nothing less than the best is acceptable. As the interview was ending,

Swami—My Music Teacher Aditya Kalvagunta

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I picked up my courage and asked Swami (in Telugu) if I could sing in the mandir. Swami agreed right away. I was very excited since this was a great opportunity. We exited the interview room. Once outside, I was jubilant. This feeling however quickly turned into panic. I knew I was not very good. It is one thing to sing in a small music room all alone with just Swami‘s picture in front of you. It is an entirely different challenge when you sing in front of Swami in the mandir. The bhajan has to be flawless. The bhajan singer is representing Swami and that is a big responsibility. That year I sang only one bhajan in the mandir in the following six months. There was not much improvement in my singing. My confidence level was extremely low and instead of working to improve myself, I would pray to Swami for a miracle to make me a better singer overnight. Over this period I was practicing but I wasn‘t very regular. I was too lazy. I felt that my will was lacking and so was the improvement in the singing.

The next year, Swami was in Brindavan for almost the first 6 months of the academic year. It was dry and hot in Parthi. It was during one of these dreary days, we were all singing in the evening bhajans in the hostel. One of the senior boys who was singing at that time was Ajnish Rai. The singing was incredible and moving. It was almost as if Swami had appeared in the hostel dining hall. At the end of the bhajan it dawned on me that singing in the mandir for Swami was an opportunity of a lifetime and it should not be taken lightly. I had to put in everything that I had and become better.

From then on, my motivation level for practice was very high. It had become an obsession. Incredibly enough, with every practice I would get a signal from inside to concentrate on certain exercises in the morning and slightly different ones in the evening. Also, I w a s c o m p l e t e l y i g n o r a n t a b o ut t h e harmonium and I knew that it was absolutely necessary to use it to practice well. With every

passing day the instrument revealed its secrets to me. It was as if Swami was teaching me music himself. My singing improved slowly and there were a few more opportunities to sing in front of Swami that year. The lesson of hard work was coming through.

By the end of my 3rd year I had many more opportunities to sing in the mandir. My singing had improved greatly. The summer vacation back at home was also dedicated to a lot of practice. As we started the 1st year of our post-graduation , my singing in mandir bhajans became a regular event. There was some amount of praise from other bhajan group members as well. I realized that my ego was rising up. There was a sense of entitlement. This belief changed very quickly as one fine day, one of the senior teachers told me that it would be better if I stopped singing for a while. No explanation was given for this command. I wasn‘t able to sing in the mandir for 6 months from that day. I had an incredibly hard time. I was practicing hard but there was no response from Swami. I gave letters to him regularly but this came to no avail. My studies suffered and my self-confidence was at an all time low. Typically, as humans we want to believe that there is a direct relationship between the work we put in and the eventual result. This is deemed fair. Anything contrary to this is very hard to accept. Patience is a great virtue in these situations. I had not learnt that lesson yet.

The academic year in Parthi had ended and Swami had left for Brindavan. This was the end of my studies in Parthi. Instead of going home, I decided to follow Swami to Brindavan. The Darshans were amazing and Swami would spend a lot of time with us during Trayee sessions. During one of these sessions there was talk of Swami‘s wish to hear a few good devotional songs. The program would be in one of the Trayee sessions. As it turned out, my name was not in the list of boys singing in the program. This was absolutely devastating. I wanted to sing a Marathi Abhang for Swami

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and had been practicing it for one year but it looked like there would not be an occasion to sing it for him. On the day of the program, as planned all the boys were seated in Trayee Brindavan waiting for Swami. The boys singing the devotional songs were sitting in the front, closer to Swami‘s Jhoola. There were a few speeches by senior devotees and then Swami asked for the music program to begin. All the boys sang beautifully. The program ended and Swami was very pleased. I was sitting at the back quite a distance away from Swami. Swami enquired if the program was done, he asked again if there was anything else. There were no more songs that were planned. At that moment, something possessed me and I got up and from the back of the room said to Swami that I have a song for him. This was all very bizarre. Swami looked at me and asked me to start singing. There was a lot of confusion, the harmonium and the other instruments were very far away

from me and we had no way of communicating. I collected myself and started singing as loud as I could. Swami appeared very happy and during the Abhang, asked for the Manjira, at some point during the song He started playing as well. Swami himself was playing during my song, I felt really blessed. The lesson of patience had come through. As I think back on the years I spent as a student with Swami, these events stand out more than anything else. He taught me the importance of hard work, patience and humility. Hard work and patience allow us to polish our skills and humility keeps us open to learning. These are keys towards achieving any goal that one aspires for. Thank you Swami.

(Aditya studied in the Parthi and Brindavan campuses from 1993 to 2000 completing his High School, B.Sc. Degree, and M.Sc. Degrees. He currently lives in Los Angeles, California, USA)

In times when in the name of love people engage in violence; in the name of peace, ‗might‘ is promoted; and in the name of friendship, selfishness is ‗bartered‘; the word God is most confused and misused. Still, God remains the only resort, the source of strength, the eternal friend, a persistent guide, and the most admired entity worthy of being worshiped.

The God who has been worshiped by millions since the beginning of time; God, on whom countless epics have been penned down; God, who has been searched for countless times via countless ways, God, who has been visualized by every soul in their unique manner; I, like many of my brothers & sisters, have the pleasure of KNOWING HIM. How many in the world can say that, and say it with confidence, that they know God and God knows them? We are amongst the few blessed ones who the Avatar of the age – Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, chose to bestow this grace upon.

How did it happen? Did we do anything to deserve this? I wonder if I can ever get a ‗right‘ answer to these questions. Once a person sitting in the august presence of the Master said, ―Bhagawan, it must be the good karma done in my past lives and the good merits of my ancestors for many lives that I have this privilege of knowing You and enjoying your proximity.‖ Bhagwan heard him patiently. After a brief pause He replied, ―No. It is neither you nor your ancestors that have done any such deed to deserve this proximity. In fact none of you in this room have done anything to be close to me. Even today there are sages who are

meditating in Himalayas for hundreds of years. When I appear to them for few minutes they find fulfillment. Here you all are easily managing few hours with me. No amount of merit is sufficient to deserve this chance. It is only by my grace that you are able to enjoy this proximity.‖

As I go about in the journey of life, experiencing the ups and downs, realizing my weaknesses and the unconditional love and grace of my God, I am humbled. Even to acknowledge my gratitude seems ‗artificial‘ and ‗too small‘. As this understanding grows, I realize how small I am. The more I comprehend His loving care and personal attention in every aspect of my life, the quieter I get. It is strange to experience a state where prayer is ‗no words‘ but a continuous state; where life is not a series of events but a miracle of His love; where gratitude is not just an expression for few things in life but an attempt to live a life in His service.

Each time we recall our days at the lotus feet we experience the same, nay, even more joy. The words spoken by Him seem to have more meaning now. Each time His words, His expressions, and His examples bring out newer dimensions in our life. How I wish we could live again as His student with the present understanding and acceptance! I wonder if we could have made better use of our time and the gift that was so generously bestowed on us. He cared for us like no one could ever do, and continues to do so till this day. Even though we fail to keep our side of the promise, He has never failed us. ―Once I have held your hand I

Hey! I Know God and God Knows Me Abhimanyu Kaul

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would never let it go,‖ promised the Lord. In spite of all our faults and ‗slips‘, He continues to keep His word. Maybe with a hope that one day we would be as He wants us to be; someone He can be proud of.

Allow me to share one such incident of His ever protective grace and love.

Following destiny, I became an Indo-Canadian living in Toronto, Canada. Once, for work, I moved to Kentucky, USA for some time. Everything seemed to be going fine, when one night I complained of fever. At that time, I shared an apartment with a fellow brother, S. Kumar. He promptly came to help. I was feeling very cold and had started shivering. Kumar put as many blankets we had on me. My shivering did not stop. Fearing any further consequences he called another friend, Mr. Mahendran, who was local to that place, for help. Seeing my deteriorating condition, Mr. Mahendran consulted his wife who was a doctor. She immediately recommended for me to be taken to the hospital. As I reached the emergency department, doctors moved me to ICU without any further delay. Later I got to know that they had asked my family to be contacted as I was very serious and ‗anything‘ could have happened. Being in a new country and in a new place, without any family close by, could be a reason for concern. But I had my Lord. It was very gratifying to know how His devotees took the best care for me. I was fortunate to experience their love for Bhagawan. My family was contacted. They were received and hosted with much love. His people felt that hospital food was not ‗good enough‘ for me. They volunteered to take turns in bringing food for me and took every care to make me feel at home. Even today I am filled with gratitude for them for their selfless love.

I received the best treatment possible. After being discharged I went to Miami to rest with family. As luck would have it America faced its

worst time – 9/11. This horrifying attack changed the way we lived. Business declined. I decided to move back to Toronto. During that time we had planned for celebrating our Lord‘s birthday in Kentucky. We had called many youths and Sai Students from nearby states to participate. I decided to leave after the celebrations. As I was still recovering, it was recommended that I should not drive all the way from Kentucky to Toronto on my own. I requested some young brothers who were coming from Cleveland to drive me from Kentucky to Cleveland. The plan was to stay overnight at Cleveland, then drive up to Buffalo, NY and stay there for a night before heading to our final destination, Toronto, Canada. Brother Kumar offered to help in packing. On the day of departure, as the car was being packed I realized my passport was missing! All the friends there started looking. The apartment was searched thoroughly. The car and all the bags were relooked at. The passport was still missing.

At that time I was not a Canadian citizen. All the relevant documents relating to my status were attached with the passport. It was not a pleasant feeling. Somehow He kept me calm. I was ‗not‘ worried. Something in me was prompting that ‗He is there‘. We decided to start our journey. Kumar was to search the apartment again and ship it to Cleveland or Buffalo, if found. By the time we reached Cleveland, Kumar confirmed that the passport was not there. I was still calm.

A small ‗satsang‘ was organized in Cleveland where I shared the stories of our Lord. After that blissful evening I requested some of the brothers there to relook at the bags for the passport. They went through the bags and the car again fully. But found nothing. Now I had 2 options. One was to go to New York, where we have the main office of Indian Embassy and apply for a new passport. Second, was to go to Buffalo and present the case to the officers at the border. If allowed, I could go to Canada and organize all

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the formalities. I decided to opt for the 2nd option.

That night I requested a few young brothers to search the car and bags for the passport one more time. They repacked the bags and checked the car but did not find anything. Next morning I drove to Buffalo. There also I had the pleasure of having a nice satsang, sharing the leelas of our Lord. After the satsang, I again requested some youth to check the bags one last time. After exhausting all the options I started preparing for the last lap. With an FIR report from the police station and a photocopy of my passport (which I found in the bags), I drove towards Canada. On reaching the border, I was asked to drive into the immigration section for the inspection. As I drove into the indicated spot an officer came out. Rolling my windows down I said, ―Officer, I have lost my passport and here is the FIR and the photocopy of my passport.‖ He took the papers and asked me to open the trunk. I was not allowed to come out of the car (security issues). He walked towards the back of the car as I pressed the button to open the trunk. Hardly 30 seconds would have elapsed I heard him say, ―Are you kidding with me?‖ I turned to see what the matter was. ―Is this your passport?‖ I saw him flashing my passport. I hopped out and enquired as to where he found it. He stated very casually that ―it was on top of the suitcase‖.

I started laughing and took the passport from his hand. Noticing his confusion I said to

him, ―Why would I give you a photocopy of my passport and go to the police station and get an FIR done if the passport was on top of my suitcase.‖ That did make sense to him but I could see that he was not convinced. He started searching my car thoroughly. I had kept my blankets and rugs on the back seat. On top was seated a beautiful picture of the Lord. He could not resist and enquired, ―Who is this afro?‖ ―He is the one who did all this drama.‖ I responded immediately. We ended up talking about Bhagawan for the next ten minutes. The surprised officer, eventually let me go with good wishes.

It is purely His training and His grace that we live a life of fullness. Adversities of life come to provide us with some exclusive time with Him. We walk with a strange confidence that drives us to a higher cause. The faith, so generously bestowed by Him, that we are His and nothing untoward can happen to us. The realization that happiness is our innate nature and our birth-right is one of the boons given by Him, unasked. All this comes with the confidence arising from the fact that God is ours and we belong to God.

Yes, I know HIM…. And GOD knows me too

(Abhimanyu studied in the Parthi campus from 1983 to 1990 completing his High School, B.Com. and M.Com. Degrees. He currently lives in Toronto, Ontario, Canada)

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It was a bright sunny day in the beginning of March 1985. I sat for the evening Darshan in the mandir heavy with headache and fever due to the climate change. I thought of writing a letter to Swami but my mind prompted me not to write and said to me that 'Hey, He is Omniscient and there is no need to give a letter'. Swami came out from the interview room for Darshan and made a complete round in the ladies side in few minutes. After making a quick round on mens‘ side, He was coming towards the curve in the portico where I was seated. He asked the registration number of the CBSE examination of a high school student and the boy was frantically tried to open the envelope in which he had safely kept his 'Examination Hall Ticket'. Before he could read the number, Swami spelt all the digits in the number and said 'I know the number of everyone here'.

I said to myself, 'Swami, then you must be knowing my fever, cold and headache also! I am having tough time in teaching the students in the college with this headache'. At that moment, he came very close to me and bending towards me asked in sweet Telugu 'Headache undhi kada, Pada namaskaram theesko'.

I was trying to correct Swami adding 'Fever Also'. Swami said 'Headache pothundhi, Pada Namaskaram theesuko'. He was standing in front of me so close that I could not even bend to place my head on his feet. I had to use my hands to touch His Feet and kept my fingers on my eyes. By then, Swami had moved and gone to the interview room. I was closing my eyes and tried to recollect His words during the Bhajans; I was amazed to observe that my headache had vanished into thin air as the Aarathi was sung on that day.

After that day, I never felt any headache due to cold, fever or any climate change till date. The power of His word was enough to stop the headache for my life time. From that day onwards, my mind always takes me to that Blissful state, whenever I have to face difficult situations in my life. I felt He was nearer to me than anyone else in my life as He could respond to my thought and solve my problem on the spot simply with His Word.

(Sridharan studied in the Parthi Campus from 1985 to 1999 completing his Ph.D. Degree . He currently lives in Missouri City, Texas, USA.)

The All-Knowing Divine Mother Sridharan Hariharan

Everyone has a story of how Swami called them to His presence. Some fortunate ones get called directly by Him, while some receive their call through subtler tugs. Some less fortunate ones believe it is they who discovered Swami. I belong to the last category. .

It was November 22, 1989. Unbeknownst to me, I had been drawn to Parthi. I was not a Swami‘s student then, not even a devotee. In my mind, I was there to scientif ically investigate and unravel the miracles of Sai Baba. Through a strange set of circumstances, I became friendly with a temple priest from Madurai. Like a loving parent he took care of every need that I had during my unplanned visit to Parthi. This, as I realized later, was in addition to his regular seva-dal activity during the hectic Birthday celebrations. Another equally strange co-incidence made the Registrar of Madurai-Kamraj University sit next to me on the floor outside Poornachandra Auditorium. I was might impressed at his humility, for a person of such high stature would never be sitting on the floor, let alone several hundred feet away from the center stage where Swami was. The registrar and I started having a conversation on education. He spoke more about the Sri Satya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (SSSIHL), than about Madurai Kamraj University and told me of the lofty ideals to which the University holds its students. I was, as always, skeptical and sneering.

Late in the evening I spoke with my only friend, the temple priest, about the University and how I could obtain admission there. This was more to make the priest happy than with

any real intentions. In response, he grabbed my hand we quickly walked out of ashram and towards the hostel. Soon, the neat lines of school students arrived back after the convocation events. The priest approached one student and requested him to provide me guidance on the admission process. The student told me about the entrance exam conducted every summer and promised to send me the information when the Institute releases admission notice. I scribbled my address on oily piece of biscuit wrapper that I had found lying nearby. The address was not very visible for the ink did not stick well on the paper. I too did not think it mattered because I was sure this student would forget all about this incident in a few days.

In the next couple of months, several other coincidences and some reading had slowly transformed my view of Sai Baba from one of curiosity to one of reverence. I wanted to be close to Him, spend more time in His presence. I started praying everyday for an opportunity to study in His college. I had heard that the college charged no fees, it would be an added blessing as I would no longer be a burden to my recently retired father. And finally, what better excuse to be in His presence. Then I recalled my hastily scribbled handover of address and sorely regretted. Would that student remember? Will he be able to read from the dirty oily paper? I should have requested his address, instead of writing down mine. Now I did not even remember his name and I did not know anyone else at Parthi. How will I ever know if admissions are open?

The Call Gopal Coimbatore

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One day in February of 1990, an unexpected post-card was waiting for me when I returned home from college and had me in tears. It was from this 11th class student, who had kept his hastily made promise. This student had remembered to send me information on admission and asked me if I was still interested in the application form and booklet? My parents were highly impressed that the student had kept his promise. It was a post-card that changed my life. Looking back, it was Swami‘s calling card for me.

Yes, it was a small, perhaps insignificant incident, yet it changed my life for ever. As I reflect upon the incident today I deeply appreciate what Swami means when He says

that it is not dramatic life-saving acts, but it is the character molding that shows through such tiny acts that are His real miracle. Act of kindness, words of love and promises kept that are signatures of spiritual growth and of human transformation. Simple acts that one is expected to fulfill but lack the strength of character to carry through. This strength needs to be fostered early before our ways get set. Ironically, it is also the age when the mind is truly like a monkey, agile and agitated. And the only language it understands and obeys is the language of Love.

(Gopal studied in the Parthi campus from 1990 to 1992 completing his M.Sc. Degree . He currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, USA.)

From Darkness Unto Light Sritulasi Karri

Spouse of Gopal Coimbatore

The following episode is my ‗ Spiritual Experience‘ with our beloved Swami on March 4th 2011. Swami often has mentioned in His discourses that you are not one but three different personalities or ‗Self‘. The one ‗You‘ think you are, the one ‗Other (s)‘ think you are and the one you ‗REALLY‘ are. Often my ‗Self‘ pondered over who I ‗Really‘ am? This quest led me to ask Swami ‗The‘ question ‗who am I‘? My journey began when the compassionate mother smiled at me, touched my head, held my hand and walked me across many life times and into those depths of ‗Self‘ life. Standing in deep golden silence next to ‗the mother‘ watching the early morning sunrise, the answer to my question revealed itself. As an observer of my ‗Self‘ in several life times with the ‗Lord‘ walking me through and enlightening the specifics of this ‗Self‘, was a magnanimous experience. The silence in facing this virtuous

‗Upadesham‘ from the Divine Mother led me to ask yet another question, aithe amma naa kadha yemi leda? (Mother, so the story was never about me?). Kindhearted mother glanced at me with a smile and said ‗NO‘. Reading the expression on my face, mother continued, ‗you are just an actor in my drama‘. And went on to explain; ‗Prarabdha‘ is what makes people go over the cycle of birth and death. The desire and thought forms make them to choose what they want to be in each birth. I am only a director; each one chooses the role to fulfill their ‗Prarabdha‘. Nonetheless, I chose the ‗special character role‘ to fit into the drama of ‗Prarabdha‘ of people and their story and ‗You are one such special character role actor‘, Ardhamayinda? (Did you understand?). I fell on my knees and touched the feet of the Divine mother who led me ‗From the Darkness Unto Light‘!

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I Am Always With You Sai Latha Shankar

When I gather my thoughts to write on ―a Prema Bandham moment with Swami,‖ my heart reminds me that all the seven years spent in Swami‘s presence in Prasanthi Nilayam and Brindavan were truly Prema Bandham filled moments. I am deeply thankful and eternally grateful to Swami and my parents for bestowing me with this opportunity and I strive everyday to be worthy of His Divine Love. Swami has described Prema, the fourth human value, to have nine qualities. Prema or Divine Love is pure, steady, effulgent, attributeless, formless, ancient, eternal, immortal and nectarine.

My mind races to a moment in 1984 when He taught me the nature of Divine Love. When I first joined Swami‘s high school in ‗84, I was a teenager who had left the comfortable cocoon of my parent‘s home and moved to the hostel in Prasanthi Nilayam. On Sundays, the hostel students used to rise early as Swami would give darshan at around 5:45 – 6:15AM. One such Sunday morning I had woken up at 3:15AM and went through my morning rituals. I dressed in clean white attire and with study books in my hand joined the student line to proceed for Swami‘s darshan. Upon reaching the mandir, I found a seat at the lowest side portico level near the sands. Everyday, Swami would walk back into the Mandir through the area where I was seated and I had the opportunity to touch His feet, give Him a letter or a photograph for His signature. Swami came for darshan promptly at 6:00AM, interacted with students and devotees till 6:20AM and proceeded to the interview room where He spoke with groups of people from different parts of the world. Those days the morning bhajans commenced at 11:00AM and

the students were expected to stay seated in the mandir until Swami retired to His residence. I studied my text books for around three hours. Around 9:00AM, I felt extremely sleepy and decided to take a nap. I inserted my foot into the warm sand, bent my head, placed it on one knee and went to sleep.

When I was fast asleep, Swami had come out of the interview room and asked all the students to move forward and be seated near the front part of the mandir . I had not moved. Meanwhile, Swami had returned back to the interview room. Some time had elapsed and I was blissfully unaware of my surroundings. Suddenly, I woke up with a startle to the sound of whispers. I raised my head and looked to my left only to see rows of students seated on the upper left portico facing me. The students were anxiously gesturing to look to my right. I slowly moved my head to the right side and at first sight saw a wall of ―orange‖. Since I was still a little groggy, nothing made sense. Then, I felt a soft hand on my right shoulder. I looked up and there was Swami, looking at me with a beautiful smile that was non-judgemental, motherly, attributeless and indeed nectarine. I was honestly terrified that Swami would reprimand me for falling asleep in the mandir. So I gathered myself, folded my hands, looked at Swami and said nothing. Swami in His infinite grace said, ―You are tired so you fell asleep, you woke up at 3:15 in the morning. Swami is not angry. Swami loves you. I am always with you and I know everything.‖ I was touched, a swirl of emotions was going through me and I did not know how to respond. I kept my hands folded and looked into His deep eyes. Swami looked at

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me again, pointed to a photograph in my pocket and asked for it. I gave Him the photograph. He was silent all the while smiling. Showing infinite patience, He asked for a pen to sign the photograph. I then gave Him a pen. He signed, ―With love, Baba‖ and put the photograph back into my pocket and asked me to take padanamaskar, which I promptly did. Swami then patted my shoulder again and said, ―Good boy, now go and join the students seated in the front.‖

This photograph of Swami‘s ‗Abhaya Hasta‘ signed by Him, now sits in a frame on my bedside table. Every night before I go to sleep, I look at the photograph and I am reminded of His words, ―I am always with you.‖

(Sai Shankar studied in the Parthi and Brindavan Campuses from 1984 to 1991 completing his High School, B.Sc. And M.Sc. Degrees. He currently lives in Springfield, New Jersey, USA)

The Divine Master of Ceremony Sankara and Ramaa Loganathan

Parents of Sai Latha Shankar

In the year 1956, Swami‘s infinite grace brought our family into His Divine fold. Swami has blessed us with many Pada pujas and interviews apart from His guidance in all walks of life. One of the golden glorious moments w i t h S w a m i t h a t w e r e c a l l i s t h e Sashtiabdhapoorthi (60th birthday) of my father performed by Swami Himself at Parthi on January 8th, 1964.

During an earlier interview, Swami told our f a m i l y t h a t H e w o u l d p e r f o r m t h e Sashtiabdhapoorthi of my parents. He asked my mother whether the ceremony should be conducted in the Mandir Hall in a grand scale or in the interview room. My mother gratefully responded that it was Swami's wish. Swami decided to hold the event in the interview room saying, ―Why have Adambara (pomp and show).‖ Swami turned towards my brother and myself and asked us to apply for time off from work in advance, to attend the ceremony.

Following Swami‘s command, we assembled in the interview room for the auspicious occasion. Swami asked the eldest in our family,

my Periamma (mother's elder sister), as to how the ceremony is conducted according to our custom. She said, ―We begin with Ganesha puja, Navagraha Homa followed by Mangalya Dharana.‖ Meanwhile, my sister had lit a bunch of incense sticks. Swami suddenly turned towards her saying, ―No, No‖ and took the fully lit bunch and put off all, except one. Through this action, Swami taught us that we should not waste and use only what is necessary. Swami then took some flowers and placed it on my mother's hair.

While explaining the spiritual significance of Sashtiabdhapoorthi, Swami said Children are the witness for ―Deha Kalyana" and God is the witness for "Atma Kalyana", pointing both his hands towards Himself. He continued that, the 60th birthday heralds the spiritual sojourn t o w a r d s " V a n a p r a s t h a " . Th e n S w a m i materialized a "Bottu" (Golden Mangalyam). Next, He materialized a yellow thread (nine thin threads twisted into one) that emanated celestial fragrance. He said, the yellow thread symbolizes ―Navagraha" and comes directly

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from "Sakhshat MahaLakshmi.‖ He inserted the thread into the mangalyam and gave it to my father to tie around my mother‘s neck. During Mangalya Dharanam, Swami kept His Hands above them blessing the couple with yellow and vermilion rice flowing from His extended palms. Out of the many photographs taken by my elder brother, only one photo could be printed. Swami said, ―It is enough if we keep the memories in our hearts.‖

In the "Aarthi" plate with vermilion water, two lit silver lamps were kept. Swami placed a small piece of camphor in between the lamps and asked for ―Aarthi‖. My parents were standing on either side of Swami. During "Aarthi", Swami said, ―those two jyothis will merge with Him‖, pointing towards Himself. Swami even arranged a grand lunch for fifty of us in the canteen. These Divine memories are deeply engrained in our hearts.

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From Army Boy to Swami Boy Bharat Datt

It was 1981 and we were sitting on the sands for the Darshan of a holy man who went by the name of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. A few months prior, Sai Baba had visited Delhi and stayed at one of my father's friends‘ home. My father was in the army and so was Colonel Beri-whose house Swami was staying in.

When my mother and brother went to see him there-the first words Sai Baba spoke to her was- "Where is your other son Ma-get both your sons and come to Puttaparthi-Swami will give them admission in his college" As a direct consequence, there I was, as a fifteen year old boy who did not know what to make of this. I do remember my mother being very religious a n d t a k i n g m e t o M a n d i r s , M a s j i d s , Gurudwaras and Churches.

Soon I espied a red robed figure walking towards me. He came straight towards me and said-what is your name bangaru ? I was tongue tied and my father replied for me. Swami motioned for me to go inside along with my dad. His first glimpse was overwhelming and His personality created lots of joy within me.

During our first visit to Parthi we got a spate of about two dozen interviews. In one of the interviews Swami looked at me and said- "Bharat thinks he has too many bad habits- but inside his heart is pure gold. He also thinks that if he stays close to swami-he will be able to get rid of all his bad habits". " Swami is omnipresent, omniscient and omnipotent ". As a first step towards my transformation Swami

instructed me to avoid contact with all my old friends.

As soon as I stepped out of the interview room-my old demons came back to haunt me. My brain cajoled me to write a letter to my best friend-with whom I sometimes played pranks with from school. With that intention I walked to the post office to purchase a postcard. I thought I would write the letter while waiting for Swami's evening Darshan. My mother came to know of my intentions and tried to chase me down. I was able to evade her, obtain the postcard and enter the men's side so she couldn't follow me.

Since we had the interview that very morning I didn't believe we would be called again that day. While waiting I completed the letter right on time and placed it in my shirt's front pocket as the Darshan music started. As usual I was enthralled by His presence and totally forgot about the letter as He motioned for us to go inside.

After talking to all families present, Swami started taking us all inside to the private interview room. As soon as I entered, SWAMI RE A C H E D U P A N D RE M O V E D TH E POSTCARD FROM MY POCKET. I realized I was in deep trouble. Swami looked deep in my eyes and said "Swami is also postman ra-Swami is also postman". "Mother running behind and you not listening to her". I understood immediately how powerful this person was and His intent to transform my heart and soul.

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Love Story 1949 Padmaja Nandini Datt

Spouse of Bharat Datt

It was way back in late 1940's when my grandfather a retired engineer from Bagalkot moved to coastal area of Andhra Pradesh with his family of nine daughters and two sons. He w a s a s t a u n c h d e v o t e e o f L o r d S r i Venkateswara. He would go on a pilgrimage to Tirupathi once a year with his family and parents. It was during one of these train trips to Tirupathi when he first heard bhajans and miracles of Baba. He fell in love instantly when he heard the sweet melodies /tunes of Baba's bh a j ans . S o wh en h e r eac he d h o me – Visakhapatnam, he tried to get in touch with devotees who had been to Puttaparthi to gather more information about this "holy curly haired man".

Few weeks later, there was a parcel in the mai l for h im. He was so s tunned and astonished. It was addressed to my grandfather with no postage on it and no "from" address. When he opened the parcel, my grandfather was astounded to find a packet of Vibuthi and a picture of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. Baba quotes "You take one step towards me and I will take a hundred steps towards you" So here was my grandfather, some 5'11in man trying to understand who sent him this parcel and why. Later that night, my grandfather had a dream

where he saw Baba telling him to come to Puttaparthi.

This was the turning point for him as well as the rest of the Desetty clan. My grandparents left to Puttaparthi the following week leaving the children under the care of his parents. So here he was in Puttaparthi, waiting for Baba in the sands. During those times Baba would come out at any time and walk around devotees, take letters, create vibuthi and talk to devotees.

When Baba saw my grandfather with folded hands he said "Did you get my parcel". My grandfather was so surprised and he could not say a word. A few seconds later Baba smiled and asked, "Pillallu ekkada" meaning ''Where are the children". By now my grandfather had mustered enough courage to say "Vizag, Baba". Baba smiled and threw something into my grandfather's folded hands. Lo and behold, there were 11 candies in my grandfather's hands. Later that evening my grandparents were reminiscing the day‘s events and at the same time were also planning the very next trip with their children.

A few months passed and my grandparents managed to pool up the finances for the battalion to visit Puttaparthi. After a long

This was the beginning of my incredible journey with our Lord Sri Sathya Sai Baba and the realization of his omniscience, omnipotence and omnipresence. Thus began my journey from army boy to Swami's boy.

(Bharat studied in the Parthi campus from 1982 to 1990 completing his High School, B.Sc. And M.Sc. Degrees . He currently lives in Newmarket, Ontario, Canada)

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journey in the blazing heat, the Desetty clan were back in the presence of the Divine Holy man. The very next day, my grandmother took the nine girls for morning Darshan while my grandfather took the boys with him and were waiting patiently for Baba. Baba, now all too familiar with these faces from Vizag, smiled and took the letter from my grandmother while looking at my mother and aunt and said, "Naa Bangaru "meaning "My gold". My mother and aunt were amazed and were all smiles and glowing, very eager to touch his Feet. Baba looked at them again and said 'Be Good Do Good". People in the crowd including my grandmother could not understand what Baba had said to these two girls because they were the only ones educated

in English medium schools at that time and were the only ones who got to understand what Baba had said to them.

Fast forward in time to half a century later. I visited Puttaparthi after I got married and I was back at the same place like my mother and aunt waiting for Darshan of the Divine Lord. Baba walked through the ladies side, looked at me and said ''Be Good Do Good". And then looking at the little girl sitting on my lap, He said "Naa Bangaru " meaning "my gold".

For me, it is like history repeating itself again in the presence of the Lord. These are some of the experiences we had with Swami and how we were brought together into the Sai fold.

Swami From The Word Go Gunika Datt

Daughter of Bharat Datt

My birth was one to remember, something unique and different. My birth was all thanks to Swami. My parents told me stories since the day I understood and sometimes even before that.

I‘ll skip back to the time when I heard nothing but the voice of my parents. My mother‘s cooing and lovely, and my father‘s gentle and low, is a memory to remember.

My father asked my grandmother to come and see me because soon I would be in this world. My grandma could not because Swami had not given permission to leave Parthi. Unbeknownst to us He was already taking care of the situation. My dad couldn‘t understand why my grandparents were not coming for my anticipated birth. He was getting frustrated and calling his parents every day.

The doctor‘s had said that to give birth, my mother would have to have a Cesarean section. My mom was very scared and the night before my birth, she had a dream. A dream, in which Swami had come to us, put his hand out and created Vibhuti. Then Swami rubbed his palm on my mom‘s stomach and softly spread the Vibhuti on it. Probably during that moment, I was turned around in mom‘s stomach. He withdrew his hand and my mother drifted off into a peaceful sleep. The next day, to doctor‘s surprise, my mother was able to give birth to me normally.

And that was how I was brought into the world safely, thanks to the ever-lasting devotion of my parents, grandparents and last but not the least, our beloved Swami‘s grace.

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Back in early 2010, I was given the opportuni-ty to be part of the cultural program committee in the North American zonal pilgrimage. The pilgrimage was 6 months in the making - several conference calls with devotees from various re-gions and other senior officials from the Sai or-ganization; trips to other cities to teach the songs and arrange the music. Swami gave me a huge learning experience that many situations exist that we cannot control or influence. We just have to let events unfold and understand how Swami directs them.

I did not have much personal expectation out of the trip; I looked upon it more as a duty to ensure the program executed well and devotees felt happy participating in the event. Additional-ly, I saw it as an opportunity for my daughter to be in Prashanthi Nilayam, see Swami and relate to Him in His physical form. My wife and I, both being Swami's students, have had the Blessing to interact with Swami; we want our daughter to relate to Swami in a similar way as much as possible.

To my surprise, few hours before the pro-gram, I was unexpectedly asked to present a

card to Swami along with another member of the committee. Swami asked for the program sheet and this gave us an opportunity to interact closely with Swami. At the end of this, Swami permitted us to have Padanamaskar - something I had not dreamt about in the past 17 years.

On the subsequent day, we presented a letter of Thanks to Swami for giving us the opportuni-ty to perform in front of Him. Swami picked a small conversation with us and at the end of it, picked up a vibhuti packet from His lap for each of us. This would definitely be the highlight of my trip - hardly anticipated but definitely filled me with joy; my Premabandham moment, if you will.

I do not know why I was the recipient of such Grace, but definitely hope that I reminisce on those golden fleeting moments of interaction for a long time to come and feel inspired enough to continue to serve in His mission.

(Bala studied in the Parthi Campus from 1986 to 1994 completing his M.Tech. Degree . He currently lives in Sunrise, Florida, USA)

Shower of Grace Bala Swaminathan

My family and I were introduced to Sathya Sai Baba, whom we fondly call as Swami, and the ever expanding Sai-Family, when I secured an admission into His Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School at Puttaparthi in 1991. In retrospect, this event had unfolded, without seemingly much effort or thought. The opportunity just opened up, as our family acquaintance had recommended this school to my father. He was in high praise about the school‘s competitive and higher standards of education which was imparted free without having to pay a a fee. The prospect sounded to me like a double benefit and I did not need any more prodding. Quickly, all the formalities to the school admission were completed and I soon became a ―Sai-Student‖ for the next seven years. Little did I realize then, that this would be an event that would impact my life a great deal and influence my outlook towards living life with a positive attitude.

Being a Sai-Student, one has countless number of opportunities to experience Swami‘s love, as we had the chance to see Him daily during His darshan. Despite the surging sea of humanity coming from far off lands, cultures and diverse religions, the multitudes of ordinary men and women, engineers, doctors, educators, scientists, politicians and all VIP‘s to seek His guidance and blessings, Swami used to spend a lot of time with His students. Sometimes, He would give away fruits and sweets, and would make sure that we had received them. Often, He would enquire about very trivial information like menu for daily

breakfast or lunch we had, the size and the quantities of idlis that we were served, etc. During exams, He would advice us on how to prepare for the examinations and after the exam, that day He would sweetly enquire if we had answered all the questions properly. He would constantly advice us on personality development and various social etiquettes, counsel about the student‘s personal problems or medical issues tormenting their families and clarify on spiritual matters. He always gave more and more of Himself and in return He just had one request - lead noble and ideal lives. All along, one common undercurrent that we, the student fraternity, had experienced was His copious concern, compassion and love.

I recall an incident in December 1991, where I had the opportunity to experience His love first hand. It was Christmas time and we were busy practicing Christmas carols to sing in Swami‘s presence on Christmas. One day, after practicing, we were returning to our rooms and in the excitement, I hit my forehead onto the wooden beam of the door frame above and, blood started gushing out. I was immediately rushed to the general hospital by my friends and I had a few stitches at the interface of my forehead and head and a big bandage was plastered on my head. The next day being Sunday, we were heading for morning darshan. I had seen in the past that students when afflicted with a bodily injury or any physical condition, although they may not be any kind of life threatening injuries, received abundant love and attention from Swami. That way, student‘s

Swami’s Copious Concern and Love Mahesh Kumar Karwa

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never actually felt a void of love of their parents when living in the hostel. So that day, I took permission from our hostel warden, to sit in the front row in darshan to draw some special attention from Swami. I very vividly recall, that day, Swami opened the interview room door and walked down to the portico approaching the front row and he looked at me compassionate ly and enquired ―What happened, why do you have the bandage mark like NTR‖ indicating with His finger at His forehead. I got up and said ‗Swami, I bumped my head onto the door frame above‖. Swami said ―careless, careless‖ with an expression showing that He was unhappy. A mother‘s love was very evident in His expression and words. He started to wave His hand in circular motion and created vibhuti and gave it to me. I was ecstatic, as this was the first time that Swami spoke to me. Needless to say, all the pain and misery of that wound simply vanished away with His caring and loving words.

To youngsters, Swami is and will ever be a pillar of great inspiration, because He is a perfect role model. He would constantly advice us on the need for conservation of resources and the avoidance of wasting electricity, water,

food, money, time and more importantly speech. In His own words, He used to say ―this headdu (head/brain), blooddu (blood), fooddu (food) and duddu (clothes) are the gift of your parents and do not ever waste them. Be ever grateful to your parents for what they have provided you‖. True to His proclamation ―my life is my message‖, Swami lived and followed every dictum of what He s advised. These instances have been mentioned in the Sai literature by a multitude of Him first hand. I would like to recount one small observation that I had witnessed for at least 7 years during my stay there. Every day, when He would come for darshan, from the interview room He would make sure that He would turn off the lights of the interview room. This is a very small act, but it is these small acts that provide a rare glimpse into an individual‘s larger than life persona. With this, I would like to offer my gratitude to Swami for giving me this opportunity.

(Mahesh studied in the Parthi and Brindavan campuses from 1991 to 1998 completing his High School, B.Sc., and M.Sc. Degrees . He currently lives in Columbus, Ohio, USA)

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As part of the Young Adult pilgrimage from our region, I went to Parthi in July 2009. Swami graciously allowed the YA to offer a music program on July 30th. With Swami's grace, I was given an opportunity to sit close to Swami while He was watching the program. During the program, Swami asked me my name and also asked me a few things related to the program itself. Frankly, at the time I did not know why I was the recipient of such Grace. Only later did I realize that by keeping me close, Swami was giving me the strength and courage I would need, for the testing times that I was to undergo after my return from India. A few weeks la ter I had to undergo an appendectomy, which is normally a simple surgery, but turned out to be very complicated for me. I was hospitalized for twenty plus days, and had to undergo two surgeries. Though it was a very difficult period, with His grace, I did not feel the pain. It felt like I was under anesthesia.

My visits to the doctors had not ended though, even after the two surgeries. There was still an open wound, and my surgeon had recommended another minor surgery. I was concerned, and I wanted to have Swami's darshan before I had the surgery. With Swami's grace, I was able to make it to Parthi in January 2010 for the Alumni Meet. On January 2nd, I, along with a few other alumni, had an opportunity to offer an album to Swami. After Swami went through the album, He spoke to each of us.

He asked me, "Where are you from?" I replied, "From California–America Swami." Swami then asked, "Do you know Walter

Cowan?" (Walter Cowan is an elderly American devotee who Swami miraculously revived after he had died of a massive heart attack in Madras in 1971.). Since I was not aware of all the details, I said, "No, Swami." Swami then went to mention how He had performed Walter Cowan's marriage in Madras.

I shared this wonderful experience with my parents that evening. My mom then asked me if I had told Swami about my surgery, and I said no. To be honest, when I was talking to Swami, the hospital saga had completely slipped out of my mind. I went to sleep that night feeling a little upset with myself, about how I had missed an opportunity to mention to Swami about my heal th . Swami 's ways are unique and incredible. When I got up the next day, I was thinking about the previous day‘s happenings, and suddenly everything made sense to me. Amazingly, wisdom dawned on me on January 3rd which was my birthday!

When Swami asked about Walter Cowan, He was not having an idle conversation with me. He was telling me that He had given me a second life, just like He had done for Walter Cowan several years ago. Everything He does or says has so much value. We sometimes fail to understand, or it takes us a few days, months or even years before it makes sense to us. Also, I did not have to tell Him about my health. Even before the surgery He had created an opportunity for me to sit close to Him, while He gave me the needed strength and courage. After the incident, He called me again to tell me in a subtle manner how He had saved my life.

On January 2nd, Swami had blessed me and others saying, "Very happy." I sincerely hope

Swami’s Ways are Unique and Incredible S. Lakshminarayan

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and pray, that I will always follow His path, that I will always make Swami very happy, and that my Premabandham (bond of love) with Swami will remain strong and last forever.

(Lakshminarayan studied in the Parthi campus from 1983 to 1988 completing his M.Sc. Degree . He currently lives in Fremont, California, USA)

Is The Food Spicy?... And How is The Rasam? Gayathri Narayan

Spouse of S. Lakshminarayan

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My parents came to know of Swami when I was 10 years of age. They were so impressed with the Balvikas classes and I started attend-ing these classes. Once when we went to Ab-botsbury, a locality in Chennai during Swami‘s visit, the Balvikas teacher announced that they were conducting an audition for a dance pro-gramme that would be performed in front of Swami for Swami‘s 60th birthday and Balvikas conference in Puttaparthi. I decided to try the audition. They wanted dancers and although I was not trained in dance I was selected and given a part. It was called a COSMOS dance where the girls did a dance and boys were dressed as the planets.

Finally the day came to leave for Parthi. This was the first time I was leaving my parents. Being out of home for the first time, it was very difficult to adjust to the food which was very spicy and I was missing rasam (south Indian soup) much more than even missing my par-ents. The food always was Sambar rice and Curd rice. Some times when we were eating food Swami used to come and talk to us. One of those days, Swami was standing very close to me and was asking everyone ―Is everything ok? Are you getting treated properly?

I was very home sick and out of blue I told Swami, they are serving only Sambar rice which is very spicy and could You arrange for Rasam also to be served? Being from south, I was really craving for rasam. I have no idea where I got this boldness from. I am not an out-going person. I could see all the Balvikas teach-ers staring at me each with different expres-sions. I know I was in lot of trouble for asking this. But Swami so sweetly said ―Oh is that so? From tomorrow onwards, I will ask them not to make it spicy and also give rasam‖.

Next day Swami came to me directly and asked me ―Is the food spicy and how is the rasam?‖ I told ―Swami thank you so much for arranging this‖. I was so emotional and cried almost the whole day thinking of his love. That was my first and last interaction with Swami in real world.

I feel my connection with Swami is "Nidra Prema Bandham" since Swami always comes in my dreams and is guiding and supporting me. I sincerely hope and pray this becomes a "Niranthra Prema Bandham" (Niranthara meaning always) and Swami always protects us and guide us.

I had a darshan of Sri Sathya Sai Baba during his visit to Hyderabad for a function of ―Three Linga Abishekam― at Vidya Nagar where Swami‘s mandir ―Sivam‖ was later built. From then onwards (1965), our family came into the fold of Swami.

I and my wi fe jo ined as Seva Dal in 1967. Later, my wife was selected for service as Bala Vikas teacher. In the last three decades we were blessed to participate in the service activities of Sri Sathya Sai Organizations.

In the early years, we, as Seva Dal/Bala Vikas teacher, were blessed with the good fortune of attending group interviews at Hyderabad and at Prasanthi Nilayam and enjoyed His darshan, sparshan and sambashan on many occasions. The private interviews given by Swami to me and my family members (sons and granddaughters) in different periods were significant events to be cherished forever.

Swami blessed us with materializations such as Lingam, the idol of Mahalakshmi, His p h o t o a n d w a t c h e s f o r m y sons during interviews. On many occasions we faced several serious health problems and Swami always came to our rescue.

Baba is always guarding us, guiding us and protecting us in person, endowing us with visions in dreams. His grace manifested in the form of Vibuthi and honey in His photos. The fragrance emanating from His photos in

advance assured us of our safety under his Divine Care.

All the love showered on us from time to time on various occasions is equivalent to the love of million mothers. It is in accordance with his assurance to devotees, ―I give you not only what you desire but more than what you deserve.‖

He repeated the assurance that He would take care of my children and that I should look after my health.

At one of the samithi annual meetings at Hyderabad I was suddenly asked to give a talk on the activities connected with the Bal Vikas wing. I intensively prayed for Swami‘s help. I felt some power from Swami‘s photo kept at the altar entering my body. I did not know what I spoke for the next 30 minutes. At the end, I was applauded for the speech. It is all Swami‘s love which saved me from an embarrassing situation.

During a group interview to alumni in January 2011 at the Mandir, Swami asked my son,―How is your mother?‖ At that time I was unwell at Hyderabad and was airlifted to Trivandrum for care and treatment. Swami gave him prasadam when my son expressed his concern about my health. This is the all-knowing Swami and His love for me, for which I have no words to express.

“I Give You More than What You Deserve”

G. Sankara Kailasam

Father of S. Lakshminarayan

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I was fortunate to come into the fold of Swa-mi and for being chosen by Him to participate in the organizational activities as Seva Dal and Bala Vikas teacher for more than three decades.

Among the various blessings conferred on our family, the most significant one that I al-ways cherish is the ‗upanayanam‘ of my son done by Swami in 1983 and his admission to Swami‘s college for the integrated M Sc course during 1983-1988.

During an interview given to my family in 1989, Swami highlighted the importance of Bala Vikas and the service connected with that.

Swami asked me who I was worshipping. My reply was that I always worshipped Him. Swa-mi said, ―I know, I know.‖ Then he created an idol of Mahalakshmi and gave it to me. ―You are always worried about your children. Your children are God‘s children. You look after your health. I will look after your children,‖ He said.

When my husband told Swami that I had been suffering from a stomach ailment for a long time, Swami asked me to take the Abishekham water of Lingam created and given to us by Him.

“I Will Take Care of Your Children”

Nirmala Kailasam

Mother of S. Lakshminarayan

I Love Swami

Sahana Sai Narayan

Daughter of S. Lakshminarayan

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I love Swami because He always takes care of me. He takes care of me when I am sick or when I am in trouble. I remember the time I went to Parthi in 2009 (I was 3 years old) when the SSE kids from our group offered a dance drama. I had a close darshan of Swami while I sat on my mother's lap in the first row.

I like to go to our Sai center because we all sing together to Swami. I love Sai bhajans and I like to chant mantras. My favorite English bhajan is "We sanctify the day the Lord is born within us" and my favorite mantra is ―Om Namo Bhagavate‖ (Rudram Anuvakam 1)

Divine Mother’s Love is Absolutely Selfless Mohan Kumar HG

I was fortunate to come into Swami‘s fold very early in life even though none in my family, friends or neighbors were devotees or even knew Swami. Swami‘s educat ion institution, Sri Sathya Sai Loka Seva Trust at Alike is very well known for its academic excellence and majority of the students there aimed to be engineers or doctors. My father admitted me there with the sole intention of making me a doctor.

In the midst of serene nature and loving care of teachers, I learnt more about Swami, though I had my own doubts. My first darshan in 1986 was love at first sight with Swami that removed all my doubts and filled me with devotion to Him. During Shivarathri 1988, we the 12th grade students went to seek His blessings for the board examination. Shivarathri bhajans got over and it was our last day at Parthi and there was no sign of Swami calling us. Swami had retired for the day but we still clung on to faint hopes and filled our hearts will intense prayers. As we were losing hopes and getting ready to leave, Swami sent word for us to be seated in the bhajan hall. He spent an hour talking to us and asked us to be good and make our parents happy. At the end he asked me to distribute His photos and prasadam to all. After doing so I returned the remaining photos to Swami and he told me, ―take one for yourself and one for your wife‖. Everybody around laughed. At that point I gathered all my courage and asked Swami, ―I want to join your college‖ and He lovingly said, ―Definitely, I will give you a seat‖. This incredibly rare opportunity to be in the presence of the Divine filled me with a

yearning to be with Him and my desire to become a doctor disappeared.

As per His divine assurance I could get into His college and there on my life‘s journey started to be filled with Divine love and spiritual lessons. Life became more exciting after Dasara 1989, Swami came to Brindavan and we all skipped vacations to spend time with Swami. Swami called us every day both in the morning and evening for Trayee sessions. He showered His motherly love feeding us with sweets, good food, new clothes and fire crackers for diwali as our parents would do.

Trayee sessions were full of joy intertwined w i t h p o t e n t d i v i n e m e s s a g e s a n d materializations. We spent most of our day with Swami and few lucky ones got the sacred opportunity to hold his lotus feet. It was November 5th, Swami had finished morning darshan and had signaled us to go inside Trayee. After we were seated, Swami walked in and asked, ―Where is Mohan Kumar?‖ I thought Swami was calling somebody else so I did not respond. Swami again asked and I raised my hand. He asked, ―What were you thinking about last night‖? Before I could recollect my thoughts Swami himself said, ―Last night you were thinking that you spent all the money your parents sent and you were scared to ask your father again‖. I was dumb-struck and just then from the bunch of letters in His hand; He took out one and opened it to give me Rs. 500 from the cover. He then went on to enlighten us about the Divine mother‘s love which is more than the love of a thousand

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mother‘s and emphasized that there is no comparison between God‘s love to a mother‘s love as the latter is not entirely selfless but the Divine mother‘s love is absolutely selfless. A mother takes time to respond to a child‘s cries b u t G o d ‘ s r e s p o n s e i s s p o n t a n e o u s , instantaneous and even faster than light. This Trayee session was one of the most cherished and blessed days in my life.

After I finished my studies and went home, I was shell-shocked to hear that my mother had advanced stage of blood cancer. I went to Swami not knowing what to do. He blessed and gave me several vibhuti packets for my mother. After few months my mother‘s condition worsened and was hospitalized. I was taking care of my mother. My mother had difficulty breathing and I went to get the doctor. Thinking that I was very young to handle this tough situation and people around asked if there was anybody with me. I spontaneously replied; ―Swami is with me‖. After my mother‘s death we had lot of problems and life was tough especially with my brothers and sister still being very young children. In hindsight, I see why Swami talked about mothers love and said He is our mother. I see and feel Him in at every rough turn of my life.

It was Swami‘s unseen hand and love that helped me to finish PhD even at the age of 40 with a family to take care of. Obviously I had serious financial problems that accompany the

limited fellowship of a research student. I had no one who I could ask for help except Swami. In such difficult times it was only Swami who answered my prayers by sending help from unexpected corners through unknown people whom I never met in life. I feel Swami‘s love and grace when I am physically far, in most difficult times and realized that no one comes to rescue my life other than Swami alone.

Incredible and unfathomable are the ways of the divine mother that he had blessed me with 45 packets of vibhuthi just the day before I met with a serious accident. I should have lost my life with my car completely damaged after getting hit by a speeding car. The dream meant that I was assured to be confident and courageous for what was to come that day. He may have never created talismans during my stay in His physical presence but He gave me a gold chain in my dream reassuring His protection when I was shaky and praying for it. This protective chain of love is around me during all times. It is not just me he takes care of but even my responsibilities and my parents. When my father was in danger and no one was there to take care of my home , He showed me in dream that He was guarding my home . It is this eternal bond of prema that transcends time, space and any conceivable barriers.

(Mohan Kumar studied in the Brindavan and Parthi campuses from 1988 to 1993 completing his B.Sc. and M.Sc. Degrees. He currently lives in Rockville, Maryland, USA)

It was on Sunday in the month of June 2002 in Bangalore that my sister, her husband, my mother and I were in our car driving along the ring road and not certain of our destination. We

just happened to drive towards the Sathya Sai Baba Ashram in Whitefield. It was the first time that I was visiting the Ashram. We vaguely remembered hearing about Sai Baba staying in

Swami Is Present In Every Aspect of Our Lives

Sunitha Gangappa

Spouse of Mohan Kumar HG

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this Ashram every year in summer. Having no further idea we just took a chance to go in. At the gate the ―guard‖ (volunteer in white) looked at us and told us that Baba had gone back to Puttaparthi a week ago. He let us in and asked us to make it quick as he would have to lock the gate. We went in and sat down in the mandir. I prayed in my heart like I normally did in any temples. On our way out the ―guard‖ (volunteer in white) asked us for a drop in our car to a close-by place. We hesitantly let him in the car. When he got off the car he gave us all a small plastic pouch of vibhuti. I just took it and carefully held it in my fist. I went home and left it in my closet not even taking a pinch of it. I thought that was my first and last visit to the ashram. But about six months later during the course of looking out for marriage alliances for me, my father happened to get the resume of an alliance. I noticed how different this resume was when compared to any that I had seen before. In addition to have completed B.Sc and M.Sc from Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, the resume also showed involvement in service activities. This alliance culminated in our marriage and I sincerely believe this was Swami‘s will.

After marriage, my husband shared some of his experiences and dreams about Swami. As a student of Psychology I often tried to interpret his dreams in the way I had studied. My husband‘s interpretation of his dreams did not make sense to me. I prayed to god like I normally did and for my husband it was Swami only. My husband‘s faith in Swami never affected me and I was being my old self. But two years after our marriage for the very first time I dreamt of Swami performing a big

yagna in my school ground. I had until then only seen ever-smiling face in photos. But in this dream Swami‘s face looked very angry. I did not let this dream affect me. But three days later I felt this dream had significance. My father was hospitalized and passed away later on August 12th, 2005. The whole series of events around this had caused drastic changes in my family. I can only interpret the dream as Swami cautioning me about worse things to come.

Although my first dream seemed tragic, I still didn‘t fully give in to the concept of Swami‘s dreams. My second dream was when I was in my last trimester of pregnancy. My delivery date was still 25 days ahead. My husband got a fellowship to pursue his PhD in an Italian University and was to leave Bangalore on January 30th, 2006. I felt terrible as he won‘t be able to spend time with our baby and me for many days as I knew it would take a few months to get a visa for us to join my husband in Italy. On December, 22nd 2005 I dreamt Swami came out from the interview room and gave me a silver Lakshmi locket in my palm. I felt happy after that. Four days later, on December 26th, I gave birth to a baby boy. Our life was tough going forward, but I feel Swami‘s silver Lakshmi locket has been protecting us and helping us live a decent life with the required necessities.

Swami is present in every aspect of our lives. He has given us a wonderful opportunity to be here in Maryland. Although not very smooth, Swami‘s hand has been guiding and helping us through all the tide. I now take His vibhuti whole-heartedly as I realize it has a powerful effect in our life.

Reminiscences And Experiences With Bhagawan Niranjan Ramji

My student days at the feet of Swami in Prashanti Nilayam are the most memorable days of my life! My grandmother and mother have been devotees of Swami for many years and through them I came to know about Swami. It was not until I was in High School that Bhagawan started to have a profound impact on me. Ever since, I have been soaked with His infinite love on several occasions with interviews and personal guidance. I wanted to pursue my undergraduate studies at the Ins t i tute a t Par thi but due to family circumstances I could not. Swami willed me to pursue my studies in Delhi and stay with my parents while I completed my undergraduate degree. Even though I was heartbroken, Swami showered so much love and grace on me. Swami had materialized a silver locket with an impression of Himself on one side and an ―Aum‖ on the other. Swami told me to wear it always and blessed me with ―healthy long life‖.

One day in the summer of 1986 when I was in the third year of my undergraduate studies, I was returning home from the university I fainted while I was riding my motorcycle. I blacked out and hit the rear end of a public transportation bus. A passing car then took me to the government hospital. Meanwhile my eldest brother who is a doctor located me and took me home. I was oblivious of all that had happened as I was unconscious all that time. The impact of the crash had resulted in a fracture in my spine in addition to a fracture in my hand and bruises. I was immobilized in a jacket cast from head to waist. My elder

brother who went to the accident site found my bike to be broken in half, but found the chain along with locket that Swami had given to me earlier tightly wrapped around the engine block of the motorcycle. My mother called my grandmother in Chennai who in turn sent a message to Professor Kasturi. When Kasturi went to meet Swami to inform him about my accident, even before he could open his mouth Swami turned to him and said, ― I know you have come to tell me that Kamala Strathy‘s grandson had an accident in Delhi‖. He went on to describe all that happened and then gave 14 packets of vibhuti and assured that I would be OK. Sure enough with the grace of Swami I recovered very quickly in just 3 months much to the astonishment of the orthopaedic doctor and was able to come out of the plaster cast. The following year when I came to Parthi, Swami called us for an interview and mentioned that He had saved my life. Swami has always been with me in all the trials and tribulations of my journey of life and my years of educational turbulence. He was there to hold my hand and assuage my fears and always assured me that ―I am with you, within you and around you‖.

It was two years after the incident that I had a chance to come and study at Puttapathi. Swami told me that I could come to pursue my PhD. To me it was a dream come true. Swami looked after me like a mother and I felt I was in heaven just to see Him come around for darshan every evening and be part of the celebration and festivals. I had an opportunity to stay in the mandir for a few months before

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moving to the hostel. Swami sent word that we should attend ―aumkar‖ and ―nagarsankeertan‖. There were a few days when I would sleep late but Swami would send word asking why we had missed the morning sessions. Swami was preparing me for hostel l i fe and more importantly laying the foundation for the future. I realize now that as we have very busy life, the time that I spend in prayer each morning is like sitting at Swami‘s feet recharging my battery every day.

After a month or so I had to move to the hostel. There were times when I used to have pain in my back after the accident if I stressed myself and lifted heavy things. The All - Knowing Bhagavan sent word to the hostel warden that I should not lift the heavy food containers which I used to while helping to get dinner set up. About one and half years into my Ph.D. programme I had not made any significant progress in my work which led me to worry a lot. Swami knowing this called me for an interview and told me that I should not worry, and these were passing clouds. Sure enough the research work s tar ted pick ing up and progressing well.

There was another interesting incident I would like to recount. I once developed severe stomach ache and the doctor at the hospital prescribed some medicines to me. The stomach ache however did not abate and became quite

severe. I was in bed for more than 2 days. I decided to write a letter to Swami to tell Him about my predicament. The following day I was lying in bed in hostel and about 11:00 am my stomach ache suddenly disappeared. That evening as I felt well and I went to darshan. I was sitting at the edge of the mandir in the back side. Swami came around and walked up to me and asked me lovingly, ―How is your stomach ache?‖ and allowed me to touch His feet. The Divine Doctor had had taken charge of the situation.

I would always wonder if doing research and publishing papers was an act of selfishness. I had an opportunity to ask Swami once and He told me that anything that we do, if we do it as an offering to God it is sanctified. As I continue my research career in multinational company, Swami‘s teachings have been a source of guidance and inspiration. Swami has continued to look after my family and my son through difficult times. I have nothing but love and gratitude. All that I am today and have achieved is due to His grace, and I pray that He makes us worthy instruments in His hands and thank Him for allowing me to be a part of this divine advent on earth.

(Niranjan studied in the Parthi campus from 1989 to 1994 completing his Ph.D. Degree . He currently lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA)

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Mother Sai—The Eternal Source of Confidence S. Chandrasekhar

I t was one of those typical holiday afternoons in the hostel. The lunch session was just getting over. Some boys were returning back to their rooms, a few studious ones got on to their assignments and I found myself preparing my bed for an afternoon siesta. Just as I was going into deep sleep, one of my roommates woke me up with a message that the Dean, Mr. U. S Rao wants me in the college right away. I got up hurriedly, dressed up and starting walking or rather running towards the college. As I was going, a stream of thoughts was passing through my mind. First of all, why is he calling me on a holiday afternoon? I could not think of a valid reason. Was it something regarding my grades or was it about my project? Is something seriously wrong? With these thoughts rushing through my mind, I reached the college and presented myself before the Dean. I introduced myself and was eager to hear what he had to say. Mr. U. S Rao looked at me and went on to say – ―You will be speaking b e f o r e S w a m i d u r i n g t h e u p c o m i n g International Finance Workshop‖. I could not comprehend what was being told to me. Looking at the expression on my face, Mr. U. S Rao wanted a confirmation that I was indeed Chandrasekhar from the MBA class. At this time I composed myself and asked him ―Are you sure sir ―. In response to my question he took out a paper which had a list of names and my name was highlighted along with a classmate of mine. Pointing at the list he pointed out that Swami had selected me to deliver a speech during the inauguration of the

International Finance Workshop. It was very interesting to note that the other speaker was the class topper and then it was me, an average student in the class. As I was trying to absorb this situation, Mr. U.S Rao instructed me to prepare a speech and be ready to have practice sessions with two senior professors.

My walk back to the hostel was filled with numerous thoughts. Why me Swami? Why are You taking this risk? At that time I did not have any prior experience in public speaking. For that matter, the closest I could think of was the MBA assignment presentations. By the time I reached the hostel, I started accepting this as an order from Swami. I thought if HE has selected me it is His responsibility to make me talk. With this thought, I prepared and somehow managed to deliver the speech in front of a large audience in the college auditorium, comprising of senior executives from the industry. But I knew in my heart that I was a bit shaky and could have done a better job. After the program, as Swami was on His way out, He looked at me, gave a beautiful smile and raised His hand as if He was going to hit me. Then He said ―why do you have fear when I am there…have confidence‖. That was Mother Sai‘s way of instilling confidence and faith in her children. Even today that scene is etched in my memory.

That was a turning point in my life. One thing led to another and today as I look back, it is very interesting to note that my profession today is totally dependent on delivering presentations and talking to larger groups.

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Swami For Me Vishudhi Chandrasekhar

Daughter of S. Chandrasekhar

Swami is love in action He is an avatar,

He gives such satisfaction, To devotees near & far,

When He blesses with His gentle hands,

When He smiles with His eyes, I know that He understands,

I feel like I can fly,

Swami is always with me, He speaks to me from within,

He is always right, I guarantee, With Him, I can‘t make a sin,

Swami is the ultimate God,

Of Him I am a part, I am so fortunate to know the Lord,

I love Him with all my Heart.

Today as we move into the formless era of Swami, I keep reminding myself to have confidence and faith that our Mother Sai has been and will always be with us guiding us through our endeavors.

(Chandrashekhar studied in the Brindavan and Parthi campuses from 1992 to 1999 completing his B.Sc., M.Sc. And MBA Degrees . He currently lives in New York, New York, USA)

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In The Sunshine Of Sai’s Love Mayur Pandya

As we all prepare to travel to Prasanthi Nilayam this summer to participate in the Alumni meet, aptly named Premabandham, let us all join together in offering our heartfelt love at Bhagawan‘s Lotus Feet. Imagining that beautiful scene of Swami‘s boys gathered in the Sai Kulwant Hall, I cannot help feeling very nostalgic and my mind races down memory lane to the yesteryears when I was a student in Brindavan and Parthi. This unique bond, this Premabandham, evokes in us students that fuzzy feeling of love, of extreme attraction, of Trishna for Sai Krishna. I humbly submit two such beautiful memories to all of you only to exemplify how much love each of us have received from Swami.

It was the year 1980, and I was studying for my B.Com. exam in Brindavan. At that time, Bhagawan was residing in the old Bungalow. Some of us students had the unique privilege to stand around Swami in what was called the ‗Safe Room‘ - so called because of a large safe that stood in a corner of the room. This morning, Swami had just returned from Sai Ram Shed after darshan and was sitting on a beautiful orange and white couch. While Swami was sitting, a devotee entered the room with a small box full of cashews and almonds. As he offered it to Swami, Swami peeped into the box and said ―Abba, too fattening! I cannot have that!‖ He then pointed to me and said, ―Yeh Gujarati ko do!‖ (Give it to this Gujarati). I was delighted to be the focus of Bhagawan‘s attention but kept quiet in full anticipation. The next minute, Swami picked up an almond from the box, bit it into half and offered the other half to me saying, ―Here Mayur! Take this‖. I was spell bound. I

could not believe my good fortune that Swami was offering this half bitten almond to me. Seeing my shocked face, Swami said, ―Oh! You are hesitating to take the almond because I bit it with my mouth?‖. I immediately replied, ―No, no Swami‖. So saying I rushed forward, took the almond from Swami and put it into my mouth. It was not just the half-eaten almond that Swami was giving me. For me, it was as if Swami was saying, ―You are part of me, and I am part of you‖. This was the high point of my life, my Premabandham moment with Swami.

I am also reminded of another beautiful memory. I was standing at a ground floor window of the old Bungalow in Brindavan one afternoon just as Swami was about to come down from His residential quarters upstairs. This window was prime real estate and every inch of space was filled with a student‘s face. This was so precious for a reason. As Swami walked by that window (on the inside) towards the main door of the bungalow, He would often stop and look at us all peeping in, vying with each other to catch His attention. At such times Swami‘s face was only 18 inches away from ours and it was a thrill to see Swami looking at you from such close quarters. One day, as Swami stopped in front of me, Swami looked into my eyes and suddenly, quite unexpectedly, asked me, ―Aye, Mayur. Do you love Swami?‖ I instinctively replied, ―Yes, Swami‖. Swami then replied, ―Jhooth raa! (All lies). If you really love Swami, you are lost in loving. You should not be conscious that you are loving Swami.‖ So saying, He walked away. Upon pondering on what Swami had said to me, I realized what a profound concept of Divine Love Swami had

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defined for me. I was perhaps lost in this egoistic feeling that I loved Swami. It was truly a humbling, spiritual reality check that Swami blessed me with.

On this occasion of North American Premabandham meet, I offer a few lines of this Hindi Song to Bhagawan to express my gratitude to Him for everything I am.

Down Divine Memory Lane Anuradha Pandya

Spouse of Mayur Pandya

In the year 1982, I was blessed to be a delegate in the Pre-Sevadal convention in Prashanti Nilayam. During the evening Darshan, Swami paused right before me and blessed me with a very loving smile that I can never forget. At that moment, I prayed intensely for a chance to eternally bask in His Divine Presence. The very next day, while He was giving out sarees to the delegates in the Poornachandra Hall, I took the opportunity to ask Him, ―Swami, may I join the Anantapur College?‖. He responded with the same loving smile, ‖Maa, Principal se baat karo‖ (Talk to the Principal). My dream came true when I joined the Anantapur campus of the Sathya Sai Institute with His Grace in June 1984. I will forever be indebted to Him for the divine experience and privilege of being a Sai student.

During one of Swami‘s visits to the Hostel, in August 1985, students were in the Prayer hall with Swami. I had the chance to ask Swami, ―Swami, how can we receive Your Grace‖ Swami responded, ―Love everyone and serve everyone. Only then can you get My grace‖.

Yet another cherished memory was when Swami visited Anantapur College in January of 1986. Swami had just finished His Divine Discourse in our college auditorium and had begun singing a bhajan. I happened to be sitting in the flanks on the stage and noticed that Swami had no percussionist accompanying Him for the bhajan. Being a member of the music group, I spontaneously picked up a dholak and began playing the beat in rhythm with Swami‘s singing. In between two lines of bhajans, Swami turned around towards me and gave me an approving glance. It was a thrill to play the

Aapki nazaron ne samja, Your Loving Sight considered me Pyar ke kaabil mujhe Worthy of Thy Love Dil ki aye dhadkan theher jaa O beating of my heart, pause a while Mil gayi manzil mujhe” I have found my life’s Goal (in Sai)

(Mayur studied in the Brindavan and Pa rth i c amp us es f ro m 197 8 to 1 99 0 completing his B.Com., M.Com. and Ph.D. Degrees. He currently lives in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada)

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In The Footsteps of Sai Maansi Pandya

Daughter of Mayur Pandya

dholak while the Lord led the bhajan for the whole college.

Though those divine memories of enjoying the Sannidhi of Sai are now over two decades old, the sweetness of those moments lingers like sandlewood fragrance permeating our lives here in Vancouver - far away from Prasanthi Nilayam. Enthused by the gratitude I feel for all that I have received from Swami, today I

humbly express my gratitude by participating in the Sai Centre activities and sharing the love that I received from Bhagawan with those I meet.

May we all be worthy of this eternal friendship, and continue to give and receive this Love, that Swami Himself embodies.

Throughout my life, I have heard countless stories of Swami‘s love and compassion towards His devotees. I have spent the last nine years attending SSE classes and have now become a part of the Youth Group in our Sai Centre. As I look back on my student life and my years as a Balvikas student, I am reminded of what a vital role Swami has played in my success and how much I have depended on Him to guide me. Swami has become an extremely close friend to me and I have learnt so much from Him and His teachings.

I am extremely fortunate to have parents who, as alumni of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, have spent many years in close proximity with Swami, and who have had many inspiring and fascinating experiences to share. In that way, our entire family is blessed to have come into Swami‘s fold. Even back in India, my uncle and aunt have been involved in a leading role in the SSE movement for over 30

years. My grandparents have also been involved in Swami‘s work for many years. Swami has touched the lives of our family for three generations, leaving us deeply indebted to Him.

I try my best to emulate Swami in my day to day life by participating in various Seva activities. Once a week, I volunteer at a Daycare Centre for immigrant families along with my peers. I also participate in community service events held by my youth group, from volunteering in soup kitchens, to attending charity functions.

While I have not had the chance to be close to Him physically, Swami has been a large part of my life and I am extremely grateful for all that I have learnt from Him. Swami has inspired me to follow in His footsteps and serve those around me.

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Swami is with me at all times. In November, 2009, I had surgery to have a pacemaker inserted to help my heart beat properly. Before the surgery, my Uncle, Nimish Pandya went to Parthi and prayed to Swami for Blessings. Swami blessed me and sent three vibhuti packets through him.

My surge ry fo r a pace mak er was successful. Swami is always there helping me. I put my full faith in Swami and He absolutely never lets me down. Now, every time I place my hand on my pacemaker when it hurts, I remember Swami and the connection I have with Him. He is reminding me that He is close to my heart.

Close to My Heart Anuj Pandya

Son of Mayur Pandya

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Divine Mother Sai Balasubramanyam Karanam

―Telisipaluka galala naa saayini‖ goes a song from the days of Old-mandir asking ―can one say that he knows Sai?‖ HE is beyond our comprehension and HIS love unfathomable.

Late one Fall evening in 1989, I received a phone call from my elder brother informing of me about serious health condition of my sister-in-law. He asked me if I could inform Swami and seek His guidance and blessings. My brother, a quiet person, had taken over the responsibilities as the head of the house upon my father‘s untimely demise. He did not say much and that left me worried and sleepless all night. Early next morning, I requested warden‘s permission went to receive Swami‘s morning darshan and sat in the portico. As soon as Swami came out for darshan I gathered courage, kneeled, held Swami‘s hand and poured out my woe. With loving eyes looked dee p in t o mine an d sa i d ― emi ka l e du bhayapadavaddu‖ (nothing has happened, do not fear). Then He slowly released His hand proceeded to shower his grace on those gathered. While Swami gracefully glided away, I decided to ask Swami for vibhuti prasadam and send it home.

When He returned with a fortunate group called for interview, again I went close to Swami and asked for prasadam. Swami looked at me and asked me to come into interview room. I went inside and sat down along with other devotees. Swami spoke to all of us for about 40 minutes. He materialized diamond studs circulated to all when it came to me he said jokingly ―nee pellam ku teesuko (take it for your wife). I was worried all the while whether

I will get time to talk to Swami about my sister. Suddenly Swami got up and asked me to come into another small room adjacent to interview room. As Swami sat on the chair I knelt at His lotus feet and held His feet and told him about my sister‘s health. Tears started rolling down my cheeks then the loving mother took my head and kept on his lap and patted saying ―Bangaru- why do you worry am I not there for you‖ then He continued,―go home today and get your mother and sister, who is not well for following day‘s morning darshan and I will cure her‖. These nectarine words from the Divine removed all my worries. The Loving GOD gave me money as well for my journey. I travelled home to see the condition of my sister. My sister suffered from Postpartum depression. I told my brother about my interaction with Swami and we arranged a minivan to reach Parthi by next morning.

As we reached Parthi about 6:15 a.m. I told all of them to get into mandir and I went and sat in the front line. Swami opened the door and came directly to me and asked whether my family members came I told Him that they did. Swami went for darshan and came back and asked me to call them. I could not find them for a longtime suddenly he came to me in the portico and pointed to my mother in the crowd and asked me to call them. We went inside Swami came and closed the door went directly to my sister and materialized a lingam in front of her and gave it to her and told her to do abhishekam daily and take that sacred water for seven days. Then He looked at my mother who was in tears told her not to worry and

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I pray to lord SAI to write through me, for this is my first attempt ever to write about my experiences which are really not in person but about the ways Swami has time and again shown His Omnipresence. As I begin to write I remember that I first saw Swami‘s picture in the Brindavan Campus at Whitefield in the year 1996. I was studying in an Engineering college at Whitefield and one of my classmate‘s father took us to the ashram for Darshan. We were not fortunate enough to receive His Darshan as Swami had left for Puttaparthi already. I prayed to Swami in the picture in the ashram and like any student I asked that I be blessed to be successful in the Engineering College and pass out with good grades. It took me this long to realize that He not only blessed me with a degree but also picked one of his students as a husband for me which I consider as a huge bonus.

Being new to Swami‘s fold and his ways it took me a while to realize that sometimes He might not grant wishes right away and He has His Divine timing for everything which might not coincide with our human timing. After graduation I started my job hunt. Those were the days of dot com bubble burst and the job market was downbeat. So I made a deal with Swami that if I got a job I would donate half of my first salary as a token of thanks. After a few months of job searching I obtained a job which was not exactly what I desired but it was a start. I had saved a half of my first salary as promised but never got a chance to visit Parthi or Brindavan. Swami finally let me come to Parthi after about a year and I carefully carried with me the money to be donated to Swami‘s hospital. By now, my first child was on the way and I was limited to chairs in the back row for all darshans. This was a setback to me since I wanted to get his blessing. But I could only see Swami from a distance in all those Darshans, so

Omnipresent Sai Deepa Devarakonda

Spouse of Balusubramanyam Karanam

Swami will take care of everything. He looked into my mother‘s left eye said she may need cataract surgery within a year. He called my brother and told him that Swami is happy with him for taking care of the family after my father‘s death as a responsible eldest son. He then gave him an ―Akshayapatra‖ of vibhuti. Suddenly my sister asked Swami saying ―Balu nu meere choosukovali (Swami please take care of my youngest brother Balu). Swami told her He will take care of Balu and he will study M.Sc. here. Swami asked her to take care of her two children. Swami gave us

padanamaskar to all of us and sent us home. My sister was unable to get admission in the Anantapur campus and blamed Swami for not giving her opportunity to study in his college. But He took care of her when she needed the most.

(Balasubramanyam studied in the Brinda-van and Parthi campuses from 1978 to 1992 completing his High School, B.Sc. and M.Sc. Degrees. He currently lives in Woodstock, Maryland, USA)

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with a heavy heart we left from Parthi after the last Darshan.

About a month had elapsed since our Parthi trip and our first daughter Shrimayi was born on October 11th, 2002. We returned home from the hospital on October 16th. Swami‘s prasdam had arrived home by postal mail. I was convinced that Swami had heard my request and sent prasdam home which I considered as a

blessing from Him. After a while when we looked at the stamp on the envelope, to our surprise the prasadam was mailed out on the same date as the birth of our daughter Shrimayi. Words fall short to describe my happiness at that moment. He knows when to give, what to give and how to give because He is nothing but giving and forgiving that‘s LOVE.

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I Am Always With You, In You, Around You Raj Patel

In October 1986, I had decided to stay in the hostel for the winter holidays as a few of us w e r e p r e p a r i n g t o e n a c t a d r a m a in Bhagawan‘s presence in early January. It was a new experience for me, considering this would be the first time I would stay in Bhagawan‘s p r e s e n c e o n a v a c a t i o n w i t h o u t m y grandparents.

Earlier in the year, around September, Bhagawan had blessed my grandparents before they visited United States. With the end of mid-year school session after Dussera and our half-yearly examinations, students began departing from Prashanti Niliyam for their home towns for a brief diwali vacation. As the bustle of activity in the hostel decreased to the whisper of a few students, the few who stayed back enjoyed the open and prime locations for enjoying Bhagawan‘s darshan every morning and evening.

The nicest surprise during this vacation was when Bhagawan would ask me every morning a n d e v e n i n g , ― D i d y o u t a l k t o y o u r grandfather?‖, ―Your grandfather has not come?‖, ―When is your Grandfather coming?‖ The vacation ended and school was to start on the 14th of November. My grandfather had told me, before going to the US that he would return to Prashanti Niliyam before the holidays began. Late that afternoon, my grandparents arrived in Prashanti Nilayam and asked when I would be able to come home with them for vacation. I told them that, ironically, my vacation had just ended and that I had to stay in the hostel. I also told them that Bhagawan was asking about them every single day,

during the vacation. Hearing this, my grandfathers‘ eyes brimmed with happiness.

During their visit to the US, my grandfather had a cataract surgery performed. There were a few complications, which lead to the diagnosis of a few other problems and the loss of vision in one eye. This contributed to their delay in travel to Prashanti Nilayam. But upon hearing that Bhagawan was constantly inquiring about them, they felt extremely happy that their prayers were received by Bhagawan. He was aware of what was going on and was taking care of my well-being, so that I would not be worried about my grandfather‘s health. I didn‘t learn about my grandfather‘s health concerns till much later. But with the timing of Bhagawan‘s inquiry about my grandparents, I realized that He was looking after all of us and knew what sustenance we needed. He knows what we need and when and provides the blessings to carry us through trying times.

In August of 1987, a few of us from the high school were blessed with the opportunity to enact a drama in Bhagawan‘s presence. During the few months of preparation, we had the good fortune to witness and experience a series of events. The following are a few of the events.

Bhagawan had blessed my grandparents and few other guests to proceed on a lifelong wish to visit the sacred places of pilgrimage including Badrinath, Kedarnath, Rishikesh and Haridwar. But before blessing them, Bhagawan had called my grandparents for an interview and asked why they wanted to go, when Bhagawan was present in front of them. Knowing that, i t was a l i felong wish, Bhagawan blessed them saying, ―I am always

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with you, in you and around you.‖ My grandparents and friends proceeded on their journey.

During the following few weeks, Bhagawan had called a few us preparing for a drama into the interview room to guide us on various aspects of preparing and acting. Before starting each session, Bhagawan would look directly at me and say, ―Today your grandfather reached Rishikesh‖, ―Today they are in Badrinath‖ and so on. I knew they were traveling and was thrilled that Bhagawan was remembering my grandparents.

It wasn‘t until my grandparents returned to Prashanti Nilayam from their journey that I relayed to them that Bhagawan was always remembering which town they visited along their journey. I asked my grandparents if they had sent Bhagawan telegrams along the way, to which they said they had not.

My grandmother then told me of how a little boy would always show up and hold the hand of my grandfather as they would enter a town or ask for directions to their hotel or apartment. Most of the time, their was no power or running water. But as they placed their foot on the threshold of the apartment or room, the lights would turn on and water

would begin to run. But as they turned to thank the person, he would disappear.

As they navigated their way through the ghats of the Himalayas, the frequent land slides and huge boulders on the single lane roads, meant that long waits on either sides of the street were very common. Again, a young man would come to the window of the car and say, ―Uncle, the road is open, why are you waiting?‖ or ―Sir, the road is clear, bring your car forward, and you can proceed‖. Again, as they turned to thank the person, he would disappear.

I t was la ter that my grandparents mentioned that most of the towns were frequently without power or running water. Every time the group stepped into a hotel, apartment or cottage, the power and water would return and stop as they were packed and ready to leave from the location. Bhagawan was not only aware of where they were, but was demonstrating to us that HE is always with us, in us and around us.

(Raj studied in the Brindavan and Parthi campuses from 1983 to 1996 completing his High School, B.Com., and MBA Degrees. He currently lives in Cerritos, California, USA)

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Swami’s Love for His Children Sri Kotti

Mere words are not enough to completely express Swami‘s Love for His children. However some of the incidents make lasting impressions on the lives of those who are fortunate to witness them. It was one such incident during the convocation drama preparations in the year 1998 that I am reminded of everyday. Some of us were working on Poornachandra auditorium stage. After a busy day Swami was very kind to stop for a few minutes and talk to us before retiring for the day. As He noted the preparations, Divine Designer that He is, directed us to make some changes. At that time, one of the elder devotees, who had just arrived from Bangalore, walked in. Swami, upon noticing this devotee, asked him in a serious tone, ―H av e y ou b r o ught the a pp le s f r o m Bangalore?‖ The devotee was taken aback, and said, ―No Swami‖. To this Swami immediately said, ―Oh, all my boys have been working all day and are waiting for you to bring apples. Now what shall I tell them?‖ While we were not exactly waiting for apples, the turn of events was interesting and the person feeling extremely sad, sought Swami‘s permission to go back to Bangalore that evening to bring apples. Swami‘s response was completely unexpected as He said, ―I do not know if the boys can wait that long, ask them and if they want you to go, then you can do so‖. Now it was the turn of the boys to be speechless, as the senior, very affable and courteous gentleman then asked us if he could proceed to Bangalore. None of us had the courage or the presence of mind to say anything. Swami in His infinite compassion

decided to put this person and us out of his dilemma and said, ―Tamasha‖ (just joking) and walked away. That was not the end of that evening‘s events. As we were wrapping up the work to go back to hostel, Swami sent apples for all of us and again came down to check if every one of us had received one. This is one of many incidents that illustrate Swami‘s unfathomable Love for His children.

No day is too busy for Him and no one is too insignificant. It was in December 1997, during the cricket match between India XI and World XI played at the Hillview stadium. Swami was very busy overseeing the preparations and would stop only to bless the birthday boys. At that time, my father visited Puttaparthi and informed me about my sister‘s marriage in the following month and asked me to give the wedding card to Swami and seek His Blessings. I had told him that since Swami was very busy, it would not be possible to give the card let alone seek the blessings. I further told him that as the marriage dates clashed with that of my mid-semester exams, I would not be attending the marriage. My father said ―OK, at least try to give the wedding card to Swami‖. I agreed. I was sitting at the end of the block and it was one of those places where during less busy days, Swami sometimes cuts across that block and walks among the boys to reach the verandah. Against all human probability Swami, on that busy day, chose to come out of the interview room and decided to take a walk. As He approached the place I was sitting, Swami cut across the block and started walking towards me. With trepidation and a trace of hope in my heart I gathered the

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courage to get up and give that card to Swami. As He accepted it without even looking at me, I said, ―Swami, Akka Vivahamu- sister‘s marriage‖. Swami walked past me for a few steps, then turned back and asked ―when are you going?‖ This caught me completely off guard, as I was not used to speaking to Swami. Then I replied, ―Swami, marriage is in February.‖ To that He said, ―OK, go home and come back soon, your exams are approaching‖. I could just manage to nod my head and murmur a feeble ―Yes Swami‖. Although, this is an incident that happened many years ago, tears roll down my cheeks whenever I am

r e m i n d e d o f t h i s . S w a m i , b e i n g t h e personification of Love and Compassion, never ignores any one, however busy He is.

His Love for every one of us cannot be written in words in ones‘ life time and let us all pray to Him that He makes us all worthy instruments in His Divine mission in this and other life times.

(Sri Kotti studied in the Brindavan and Parthi campuses from 1994 to 1999 completing his B.SC. and M.Sc. Degrees. He currently lives in Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin, USA)

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An Important Lesson Learnt At His Lotus Feet Krishnan Shankar

Professor Sanjay Sahani, in one of his speeches, narrated an incidence showing the importance of immediately obeying Swami‘s commands. Once Swami called a devotee ―Rama Brahmam, Rama Brahmam.‖ He was having a cup of water, so he took time to place it down and then came to Swami. Swami ignored him with some activity and Rama Brahman said, ―Swami you told me to come and I am here‖. Swami said, ―I called you then, not now‖. Then Swami explained how a devotee should obey Swami‘s commands. He should have just dropped the tumbler and ran towards Swami - that should have been the devotee‘s reaction.

Well, let me narrate my personal story of what happens when one doesn‘t obey Swami‘s commands and what happens when one does obey Swami‘s commands.

After I finished college, I got selected into the PhD program at IISc (Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore). It is customary for students to sit in the front row to ask for Swami‘s blessing. Swami came near me and took the letter, so I asked Him for His blessing for me to enroll in IISc. Swami said, "Wait,

Wait, Not Now" and moved to the next student. I was very perplexed and upset that Swami did not bless my enrolling in IISc. As I was coming out, one of my professors who saw me talking to Swami asked what Swami said. I told him that Swami said ―Wait, Wait, Not Now,‖ and that I wasn‘t sure what to do. I knew Swami was Divine, but my faith was not s trong enough to implic i t ly obey His commands. My professor told me that

Bangalore i s four to f ive hours f rom Puttaparthi. He told me to join them on Monday and later come back to seek Swami‘s blessings. I left for Bangalore by bus and stayed overnight at my sister‘s house. The next morning, I went to meet and greet the professor under whom I would be doing the research program. The assistant told me that Professor Narayan was in Kanpur for a business trip and will be back the following week. He said that they tried to contact me but with no success.

Then I remembered what Swami told me: ―Wait, not now.‖ But my monkey mind started working. I then calculated from Monday to Sunday is twelve darshans I will sit in front for twelve darshans and very easily get Swami to agree. Then the drama began. At every single Dharshan, Swami either completely avoided seeing me or when he saw me he said, ―Wait, not now.‖ I then realized that Swami was trying to prepare me for something unknown at that time. I always dreamed of joining IIT or IISc but then realized that I wanted nothing else except for Swami‘s blessing and word.

The next seven to eight months were spent just meditating on Swami‘s presence. Those were the best days of my life. I was staying in the old students‘ hostel. I had to skip meals as I ran short of money, so I used to help out in the canteen. Swami used to send money through an assistant, Deepak, who used to tell me to eat. I slept in the Mandir, now the Sai Kulwant hall.

Meanwhile, I wrote a letter to the Professor at Bangalore stating my inability to join for

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personal reasons because I needed to get blessings from Swami. He wrote back that he was willing to wait for me to enroll however long it took; I was so surprised to see such a positive response.

My mother, however, was anxious about my future. She was being irritated by relatives that I was wasting my time at Parthi and not working or studying. She was praying intensely to Swami to take care of my situation. She wrote a letter to Swami and mailed it to me to hand over to Swami.

Swami came near me and I handed it to Him. Swami opened it and read the contents. His eyes beamed as He said He wanted me to go home and help my mother. He told me to take padanamaskar and come in the morning again.

I went in the morning and He said that He was very happy and would take care of me.

One word from Swami was enough, and I obeyed as if I was holding on to my life. I literally followed his advice. I went home happily and spent time with my mother. Those days were my best days. But one day she developed intense chest pain and passed away hearing the song ―Why fear when I am here‖ (Tamil version). I realized why Swami told me to wait. I would have missed the love and affection of my mother and she would have missed her last living years with her son.

(Krishnan studied in the Parthi campus from 1986 to 1988 completing his M.Sc. Degree. He currently lives in Long Island, New York, USA)

Swami’s Assurance That He is Always with Me Mangala Shankar

Spouse of Krishnan Shankar

I disciplined myself to daily chant Rudram twice and sing bhajans. I had been doing Abishekham with the spatika Linga given to me from the Shirdi Sai Mandir on Shivarathri 2 0 0 9 . I h a v e f e l t s w a m i ‘ s p r e s e n c e innumerable times when I do my Rudram chanting and bhajan singing. Many times a flower would fall down Swami‘s picture from the altar assuring me of His visit to my home. He had come several times in my dream and blessed and also gave Padanamaskar.

The following happened in October of 2010. One of the Young Adults from our center

called me about a play for the 85th Birthday celebrations. She told me that Swami came in her dream and then she narrated the dream as follows:

In her dream some of the Young Adults were visiting Parthi. Swami during the dharshan came near us talked to both of us. Swami said to me, ―I know that in your mind you wanted Swami to create Lingam however I am not going to give any materialization for your daily pooja. I am the Shivalingam that you worship every day.‖

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This was quite shocking for me as I have never told her that I do pooja and Rudram everyday. This assurance made me feel that Swami is in my house everyday and listening to my pooja and prayers.

After this incident, the YA who called me wrote a play to be performed in our center for

Swami‘s 85th birthday and I was also given a role to act as chanting Rudram. Swami acknowledged my presence by reading my letter for over 20 minutes on January 1st 2011 which assured me that He is there with me Always.

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Swami = Love Sunil Paladugu

My journey with SAI who we so lovingly call as SWAMI started not long ago in the year 2000 when I was still a teenager, who did not care about anything but himself, who thought that He knew everything but did not even know about himself, about his true self. Even though I spent almost seventeen years in the outside world, I mean the world I knew before I came to Swami, I did not gain anything worthwhile that I gained for my entire life time in just five years after I came to Swami.

I used to think God is one who does miracles, who will appear and disappear and make things disappear. God meant only RAMA or KRISHNA who walked the earth long time ago and now they dwell in the dark corners of the temples. But after I came to Swami I realized who or what GOD really is. I understood that God is nothing but LOVE, where there is love there is God. Lord Rama and Lord Krishna were considered gods because they preached love and righteousness which made them holy beings.

Swami indeed was love in human form. I never stayed away from home before but I never missed home for Swami showered so much motherly love on His students. He always takes care of his students. In my first year once we all were seated in the Sai Ramesh hall in Brindavan awaiting Swami for His divine darshan, I happened to sit in the second line with an intention to give a letter to Swami and take His blessings for my brother was sick. Swami arrived and He crossed the ladies side and walked slowly and gracefully towards students and as He was passing me I looked into His eyes and froze totally forgetting about

the letter in my pocket, He almost crossed me and stopped all of a sudden, looked at me and asked ―Don‘t you want to give your letter?‖ I was amazed and overwhelmed by His omniscience. I immediately rose and gave my letter, He patted my cheek with a beautiful smile on His face and walked away.

There were many instances during my stay in His abode as a student which made me feel that we are heroes with SWAMI and zeroes without HIM. He teaches His students in many ways. The main mode of His teaching is His divine discourses. He does not teach chemistry or physics or mathematics but imparts life lessons. He sums up the purpose of life in just two statements; ―Love all serve all‖ and ―Help ever hurt never‖. He often says ―My life is my message‖ and it is so true. We can learn a lot from the way he conducts himself in every kind of situation. He is the mother, the guide, the master and the saviour. Those five years in His divine presence turned me from an innocent teenager into a man who saw the world differently. To put it in a simpler way, God said I am one and I want to become many and so He created us, the world. We are nothing but part of Him.

―Asto Ma Sadgamaya

Tamaso Ma Jyotirgamaya

Mrtyorma Amrtam Gamaya‖

(Sunil studied in the Brindavan and Parthi campuses from 2000 to 2005 completing his B.Sc. and M.Sc. Degrees. He currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, USA)

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Swami And I Sai Siva Kumar Dakshinamurthy

In 1981, when Swami visited Sundaram, I was studying in Balvikas. All Balvikas children were asked to sit just before the barricade that was put up for devotees on the gents‘ side. We were all instructed not to touch Swami‘s feet unless Swami permits. I had a letter with me that I wanted to give Swami, so I requested one of the Balvikas gurus if I could do so. He asked me to get inside the barricade where devotees were seated so that I could give the letter to Swami from there. So I went in and sat just adjacent to the red carpet that was laid out for Swami. During Darshan, Swami walked close to me and asked, ―What is your name? Which class are you in?‖ I said ―Swami! Sai Siva Kumar, studying in 6th standard‖. Swami then said ―Santosham, Santosham (very happy). Study well‖ and materialized Vibuthi for me. My hands were shivering. One of the adults next to me gave me a piece of paper to keep the Vibuthi. This experience lingered in my mind all the time and I got interested in joining Swami‘s school.

That summer, during our vacation, our family went to Parthi and stayed in the Ganesh shed and we used to go for Darshan every day. One day I happened to sit in the front row and when Swami came near me, I asked Swami, ―I want to join Swami‘s school‖. Swami said ―Santosham‖. I was very happy and excited. On another occasion, again I asked Swami the same thing and this time He said ―go and ask the principal‖. My joy was boundless and I was on cloud nine. Next day, my father and I went to the school and were waiting for Prof. Habbu, the school principal at that time. He listened to us and said that in Swami‘s school, students are taken only in 1st or 11th standard and not in

between. We explained to him that Swami asked us to speak to him. He told us that it is a delicate position for him but his hands are tied and suggested to come back later when I could apply for 11th standard. When I got another opportunity, I asked Swami and He again asked me to talk to the principal. And when I went to meet the principal, he would give me the same answer again. This cycle continued not for days or months but for four years.

Once I even sneaked inside the mandir verandah and sat outside Swami‘s room where students sit, to get one more opportunity to ask Swami. This time Swami came out and again said ―Santosham‖. He was holding a red-colored basket of Vibuthi packets and gave me a handful. I took padanamaskar and ran outside to tell my parents. They were very happy. When I counted the Vibuthi packets, I got exactly 9, a divine number!

Finally, four years later, the time had come for me to apply to Swami‘s school for 11th standard. I received the call letter for written test and was very happy. This was like a dream come true after four years of longing to join Swami‘s school. But Swami had different plan this time. Just two days before the written test, I was diagnosed with chicken-pox and now my whole dream lay shattered. I had a very high fever. Leaving me in Chennai, my father rushed to Parthi taking a doctor certificate and went to see the school principal. By this time, Prof. Habbu recognized us very well because of our repeated visits to the school, pleading for admission. So he spoke to my father and said, ―I can understand your situation. But your son cannot write the test now and I cannot reserve a seat for him without him taking the test and

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getting selected‖. After repeated pleas from my father, he finally said that he would put this case to the school committee. My father didn‘t know what exactly happened in the committee but finally Prof. Habbu said that the committee decided to ask Swami. He suggested that my father pray well. The next day, he told my father that Swami, out of His infinite Love had advised to keep the entrance test later once I become completely alright.

So after a few days, I came to Parthi, took the entrance test and on the same day I was told that I am selected to join Swami‘s school. My joy knew no bounds. A long time later,

Prof. Habbu once revealed to my father that Swami actually said ―keep the entrance test and give admission‖. If Swami had not said that, I am sure that I would not have got admission. I was not academically good at that time, while the other students who joined then had very high scores in 10th standard. Some were even State and CBSE rank holders. I was only given admission by Swami to enjoy His Love and experience His Divinity forever.

(Sai Siva Kumar studied in the Brindavan and Parthi campuses from 1986 to 1991 completing his High School, B.Sc. Degrees. He currently lives in Frisco, Texas, USA)

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The Ever Caring One Lui Muniz

During my last trip to India I met the Head of the Department of English. He was surprised that a Mexican had been studying at Swami's Institute and wanted to know how I became a student. My response was that it was all due to the grace of Bhagawan. He was more curious and wanted to know the details.

As a Mexican citizen, I marvel at the great chance I had. At that time from 1985 till 1992 I can only recall a handful of foreign students. Before I joined Swami's school, Swami asked me a couple of times ―What do you want?‖ As a boy I wanted to be near Swami, I understood that Swami's students got the chance of being near him so my answer was ―I want to join your school‖. Swami said ―Yes, you can come and I will give you hostel and food‖. It was a few years later in the year 1985 that my parents and I started on the trip to India. To reach India from Mexico at that time we had to take a plane to the United States of America, then to Europe and finally to Bombay. Total flight time is about 20 hours. In my tenth grade I used to play basketball. A few days before the trip, I was careless and I broke my ankle, so I had to travel with a cast and walk with the help of crutches.

When we reached Prashanti Nilayam, Swami gave my parents an interview. Once again He said that I was to join the school. However, when my parents went to talk to the Principal, he would say that there was no way that I could join the school. Again my father would ask Swami, who would say ―yes‖ and the Principal who would say ―no‖. This went on for three weeks and my mother was happy that I will return with her to Mexico. However, one day before our departure, my father tried for the last time and went to see the Principal,

this time his answer was: ―Yes, he has been admitted to the school‖.

The next day my parents returned to Mexico and I took a cycle rickshaw to the hostel. Right from the beginning, the Warden and the teachers were very loving and had lots of patience. It took me almost a year to adjust to the food. I did not like anything but with time I got used to it and believe it or not, I really miss the sambar, the curry and the chapatis today. During the first few weeks after joining the school, I had the good fortune of sitting every day in the first row thanks to my broken ankle. At darshan time, Swami opens the interview room door and waits a few seconds. I could see his eyes adjusting to the bright sun of Parthi, and then come out. Almost everyday He would ask me how my leg was. I would always answer that it was fine. One day I answered that it was not fine. Swami became very ―worried‖, but said nothing. During darshan and interview time, I became more worried and my monkey mind started jumping madly thinking that my ankle was really not fine. I had lots of time to worry, till Swami came out from the interview room and called me. I started crying and could not control myself. Swami called the warden and the doctor, spoke about my ankle and finally told the warden that I was homesick. No wonder I could not control my crying. After that I was never again homesick till I left Parthi.

Today, when somebody asks me what time of my life has been the happiest, I immediately think of those seven wonderful years when I was a student at Prashanti Nilayam.

(Lui studied in the Parthi campus from 1985 to 1992 completing his High School, B.Com., and MBA Degrees. He currently lives in Mexico City, Mexico)

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Life Through Swami’s Eyes Sai Sravan Cherukuri

It is almost impossible to express in words how Bhagawan has changed my life without my knowledge. All I can do is to make an attempt to express the feeling of gratitude and Love for Him that permeates my daily life with my family, in all the activities I undertake and with all the people I encounter.

Swami entered my family in mid-sixties when Bhagawan visited Hyderabad. He very lovingly asked my father to visit Puttaparthi. My father at that time had no clue who this personality iof five foot three inches was all about. When my parents visited Puttaparthi little did they realize that this very little master would become his Master for life. Bhagawan enchanted my father with His Darshan, Sparshan and Sambashan and with that a strong connection of love was established between Bhagawan and my father.

As time passed by, my father‘s relationship with Swami deepened and he felt the bond between Swami and himself getting stronger and stronger. My father had the great privilege to be part of the first batch of Sevadal in Sri Sathya Sai Organization was formed by Bhagawan Himself and my father was bestowed with the great privilege selected by Bhagavan. As days and years rolled by I was born and my parents joy knew no bounds.

A few months after my birth, the joy on my mother‘s face slowly faded and concern dawned on her with the medical challenges I underwent, coupled with the doctors extensive diagnosis and her joy was shattered when the

doctor declared that I was born with two life time birth defects.

The days and months that went by were filled with enormous suffering and sorrow, which was persisting day after day, month after month. My mother felt the only way out was to seek our sweet Lord‘s blessings. After waiting patiently for a long time, Swami finally decided to call my family for an interview. Much to the joy of my mother, we were sitting in the interview room and Bhagawan started conversing on spiritual topics. Finally Bhagawan came up to my mother and patted me on my shoulder to wake me up by calling ‖Sai Sravan, get up‖ That is how Swami named me as Sai Sravan. When I got up from sleep and looked at Him, He simply put His hand on my face and smeared Vibhuthi, pated me on my back and Swami went back, sat on His chair and continued His talk. While I was lying on my mother‘s lap after sometime I started playing with my mother chain around her neck as she was listening to Swami‘s talk. With what she noticed the change in me her face was lit with joy, she could see what Swami has done to me and her joy new no bounds. Lo and Behold! Swami fixed my birth defects with His divine touch…He gave me the eye sight - I was born blind - and gave strength to my spinal cord—I had no strength in my spinal cord at birth.

This is my Swami who can do anything with His pure Will and now I could see His beautiful form like others and am able to enjoy life which is purely His grace. This is where spirituality starts and where science ends. Thank you

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Swami for all that you have done to me. I‘m ever grateful to You.

I've learned many values during my years as Swami's student through my teachers and lecturers. It is one thing to remember the values and it is completely different thing to see living examples. No matter how much these values have influenced my life; I would say I'm simply amazed by Swami's own life style. He says ―My life is My message‖ and true to this statement, He toils day in and day out for the welfare of the mankind. This made a very strong impression on me and I continue to do seva activities through Sai Centers.

Due to vagaries of my mind, sometimes I feel I‘ve slipped out of His embrace, but I have learnt to train my mind to - hurry back to His arms, and He accepts me every single time in His own loving way. Regardless of what I am, I know for sure Swami loves me, I can feel His Love, it has always been there, and it is me who is trying and making every effort to feel that Love in every moment. To develop Love for Swami is the most wonderful aspect that happened in my life.

I always remind myself that this is the most precious life because we are contemporaries of The Lord of the Universe. It is our good fortune for having Bhagawan in our lives and able to progress in life with His guidance. To that end, I‘ve trained my mind to listen to my inner voice.

I will never be able to describe the joy and beauty of those golden moments with Bhagawan that are imprinted in my heart and soul for lifetime. I will never be able to express my deepest gratitude to my most beloved Bhagawan my gratitude for all His Grace He showered upon my family and still does with every beat of my heart. But I will do my best to become His best instrument and strive hard to strike a chord in His sweet heart.

I humbly offer with love at our Lord's Lotus Feet.

(Sai Sravan studied in the Brindavan campus

from 1988 to 1991 completing his B.Com.

Degree. He currently lives in Washington DC,

USA)

Swami let me thank You for making me Your student. You shower so much love on all of us. Thank You for gifts to me on the sports meet and also prizes for the games that I won. I have learned many good things in Bal Vikas. When I came to India from USA to join Your

primary school, I felt very lonely and sad, but then I started making new friends and felt happy seeing You in the mandir.

Thank You Swami for helping me in getting better ranks in both the unit tests.

Swami-My Beloved Sai Saketh Cherukuri

Son of Sai Sravan Cherukuri

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Divine Parent Sai Keerthana Cherukuri

Daughter of Sai Sravan Cherukuri

I‘m very grateful to You Dear Swami. You gave us everything, most important thing that You gave us is Love. No other person is as compassionate as You. Swami You are our mother, father, friend and everything. Even if we take 100 births we can‘t repay what You have given to us. I can‘t express my gratitude. Even when we don‘t ask or expect anything You gave to us all. People all over the world know about Your compassion. The schools which You run are the best in the world and we learn directly from You. When I had first joined Your primary

school (in fourth grade), I felt so lonely and sad, that I am far away from my parents who are in USA, but I learnt quickly that You are my dearest mother, father and what not? And You are everywhere, with us around us and in us. In USA, I used to have lot of comforts, but in Swami‘s school I learnt to live with just what is required.

Swami, I want to thank You for what You send to our school on festival days. Every cake comes first to our primary school.

My All-Knowing Sai Venkatesh Iyer Srinivasan

In 1980, I had won the Western Zone Bhajan competition in Mumbai. That summer, Swami who was at Dharmakshetra, called us, gave us padanamaskar and a gift of Rs. 300. This was the first time I saw Swami from such close quarters. After I took padanamaskar, Swami asked me if I would be coming to Brindavan. I had no clue what Swami meant at that time…

I joined Swami‘s pre-university college in Brindavan in 1981. Fresh out of school from Mumbai (then Bombay) I was very nervous and not sure what to expect. My initial interview w i t h D r . E . S u d a r s h a n a n d D r . Lakshminarasimhan did not go very well but I thank them today for overlooking my shortcomings and granting me admission.

My initial days in Brindavan were learning days. I had never seen Swami this close before. I had only heard but never experienced His divine powers first hand. The closeness and proximity that boys enjoyed with Swami cannot be expressed in mere words.

My first darshan in Brindavan after joining the college - Swami had finished His morning ‗Sairam shed‘ darshan and was making His way back to His abode. I was a short, thin, nervous little boy standing in the line along with others. Swami stopped, smiled at me and asked abruptly…‖What did you do with the Rs. 300 I gave you‖. For a moment I did not quite get it. A split second later I remembered. Before I could answer, Swami patted my cheek and asked me to take Padanamaskar.

Over the many years I spent with Swami, He has revealed to me time and again that He is the all-knowing GOD, our protector and guide. Here are few of my thoughts and experiences that have helped me understand Swami and His teachings and transformed me into a better individual.

Ever since I joined Brindavan in 1981, I had been sincerely trying for over 6 months to get permission from Swami to sing in front of Him. I tried verbal requests, letters every day and even tried recommendations from Warden and other senior singers. Nothing worked. After persistent efforts, Swami answered my prayers. I think it was in Feb 1982. After the evening darshan, Swami used to go to the ‗Safe room‘ and spend time with the boys and other senior devotees. Swami would be in His best mood, relaxed and very informal. As usual, I was standing in the corner with a letter in my hand. This day, Swami called me near Him and asked what I had written in the letter. I said....‘ Swami, permission to sing‘... Swami looked at the Warden (C. Srinivas) and then asked me if I am a singer or a sinner. Without waiting for my answer, Swami created Vibhuti, applied it on my throat and said ‗You are not a sinner and you can start from today‘. It was as if my dream had come true. I was happy that I was officially part of the Bhajan group. As we sat down around Him for Bhajans, Swami looked at me and said – ‗sing Jaya Ranga Panduranga‘. I was shell-shocked. I had sung this exact Bhajan in front of Pandurang Dikshit during the Western Zone Bhajan Finals in Mumbai for

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which I had won the prize from Swami. Swami made me aware that He is the Omniscient God and was with me during the competition.

Later that year, my brother, an Asthma patient was really suffering in Mumbai. I was not aware of this. That morning, Swami came down for morning Darshan, came straight to me, created Vibhuthi and instructed me to send it to my brother immediately. I realized then that Swami protects not only His boys but also their family.

In my 3rd year BSc, many things happened. I was not sure of my future and my mind was for some reason very disturbed and wandering. Swami suddenly stopped talking to me. For almost a month during the bhajans, He did not ask me to sing. I felt dejected, angry and sad. One evening, Swami had gone inside the animal shelter to feed the deer. I immediately followed Swami inside with the water jug. As I was pouring water, Swami was washing His hand; I gathered courage and asked Swami if I can sing today. Swami at first ignored me but as He was drying His hand He told me, ―Your mind and eyes are not steady. You are distracted and your thoughts are wavering. You are not thinking of Swami during bhajans. How can I ask you to sing?‖

After BSc, Swami had instructed me to join Parthi to pursue MSc. In Parthi, I was in for a

shock treatment. Swami neither spoke to me nor acknowledged my presence. I felt dejected and did not join the Bhajan group. I was not sure if Swami would approve of me singing in Parthi. Swami cleared my doubts immediately. One day after darshan, our Warden called me into his office. TheRegistrar and the Controller of Examinations were also present. They told me that Swami is upset with me, wants to know why I am not singing Bhajans anymore at the mandir and I should start singing right away.

I still remember my last day in Parthi. I had sung the last song. I was fortunate enough to do Aarthi. Swami took Aarthi and went inside. Few minutes later, He returned with the Vibhuth i basket . He gave me Prasad, Padanamaskar, looked at me lovingly and said ‗remember I am always with you‘.

Life after Parthi has been full of Swami‘s grace. As He promised, He has been with me all the time, in difficult times and in happiness. He has given me a wonderful family and a plentiful life. I can feel Him around us everyday. I sometime miss His physical presence. I am thankful to Swami to have given us this opportunity to go to Parthi once again.

(Venkatesh studied in the Brindavan and Parthi campuses from 1981 to 1988 completing his B.Sc. and M.Sc. Degrees. He currently lives in Jacksonville, Florida, USA)

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Most Beloved Swami,

Our most humble pranams to You for giving us this absolutely wonderful opportunity of pilgrimage to Puttaparthi in the summer of 2011. It has been our long cherished dream to spend time with You in Your home and our joy knew no bounds when we heard of the alumni reunion. Coming with Venkatesh‘s parents & also his classmates and their families infuses boundless enthusiasm into us and we gratefully look forward to our stay as the most precious time of our life.

As You fully know, everything we have today has been by Your bless ing. Our wonderful sons who joyfully sing Your bhajans, earnestly read Your books and humbly perform service make us proud everyday. Our parents revel in taking Your name and working for You. Every day & night they sing Your praise and engage in spreading Your message.

We ourselves are experiencing Your abundant love through the Sai family in Jacksonville. You have also guided us well in every important decision, action and course of life. If not for Your blessings, we would have been totally lost in this foreign land, searching for a purpose and direction. Time and again You have made us realize that You are with us wherever we are. Even when we are lacking in our sincerity, You have been so kind to forgive us.

Through this article we have had this wonderful chance to pour out our gratitude, but words are not enough. It is by our actions and behaviour that we will continue to make You happy. Please show us the way and help us spread Your words of Love and Truth to everyone around us, making Your dream of brotherhood of man come true.

My Gratitude to Swami Vijaya Venkatesh

Spouse of Venkatesh Iyer Srinivasan

Thank you Swami Nikhil Venkatesh

Son of Venkatesh Iyer Srinivasan

Thank you Swami for guiding me through this privileged life. Please help me always see good, love all and serve all. Thank you, Swami for caring for me and my family's health as well. Last winter, I went biking and jammed my heel in the tire. When I looked at my foot, although there was a large gash on my heel, I felt no pain. As I chanted "Sairam", with Your

grace, my major cut was cured with simple stitches. From this, I understood how powerful a simple mantra "Sai Ram" could be. The cut had actually sunk into my skin but stopped right before my crucial tendon. Swami, please guide me through my studies, and help me see the truth in life.

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Your Sweet Smile...

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Etched in our memories Forever

When Alone, I am God Sathya Sankar Gopalan

I offer my humble salutations at the Lotus Feet of our beloved Bhagawan.

Every once in a while, mankind comes across a hero, a catalyst, a spark of genius whose life is an inspiration for many following generations. Some of these men and women bettered the lives of their fellowmen with their tremendous inventions, some with their path breaking service to humanity and yet others with their unflinching quest for the Creator.

"By different methods, different men excel. But where is he who can do all things well?", asked the poet Charles Churchill. For it is far more easier to master the objective world, than it is to master the mind, control the senses and discover our true identity. It is only God who can show us the way to achieve that.

Rarely in history has mankind borne witness to the descent of God Himself in a human form. Even rarer has been the interaction of Divinity with mankind on such a large scale. Brothers and Sisters, we are fortunate to be living at a time when the answer to all questions, the source of all inspiration, the target of all inquiry is amidst us.

Bhagawan has donned on this wonderful human role and has been tirelessly showing us through His own Life, how we can lead ideal lives. "Vachanam Madhuram, Charitham Madhuram" (His Words are Sweet, Sweet are His Acts) sang the saint Vallabhacharya. And our dear Sai is the embodiment of that divine sweetness. Even a single thought of His name, form or word fills one with the utmost peace.

As I recollect my days as a student in Prasanthi Nilayam, I am filled with gratitude and awe. What appeared as a simple act or word of His back then, has revealed its profound significance over the course of time. What seemed to be superfluous back then due to our ignorance, has in reality turned out to be a seed of wisdom that He planted in our hearts. Like a patient gardener, He has been toiling giving us the right experiences in our lives so the seed of love and spiritual awareness may sprout of its own accord.

I remember the time He called about fifty Vedam boys for an interview and gave padanamaskar. To top it off, He even blessed each one of us with a silk dhoti. Bhajans were going on, He came to me and I took my padanamaskar. He handed a dhoti over to me and moved on to the next student. He suddenly turned and took a couple of steps back towards me. Before I could realize what was happening, He beckoned for me to give the dhoti back to Him. I was shattered. Confusion raged through my mind as to which of my infractions had resulted in this rebuke. Seeing my perplexed look, Bhagawan lovingly smiled and indicated to the edge of the dhoti. "Small Jari. I will give you one with a bigger Jari", He lovingly said, pointing to the thin brocade edge of the dhoti.

Even though He was interacting with so many of us, He noticed the minutest of details and took care of treating each one of us the same. As I recollect that incident fondly, I have now learnt that He is watching over all of us with the same care and love towards each one of us, and that we too must extend the same care

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and love in all of our day to day activities and interactions with other people.

I am grateful to Him for having got all of us started in this wonderful journey towards the destination of all sojourns. Let us pray to Him to bless us with an intellect to absorb

His Message and be able to live a life that fulfills His expectations of us.

(Sathya Sankar studied in the Parthi campus from 1994 to 1997 completing his B.Sc. Degree. He currently lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA)

Prema Bhakti Se Bhajana Sunao Soumya Sankar

Spouse of Sathya Sankar Gopalan

Om Sri Sairam. My humble pranams at the Lotus Feet of our dear Bhagawan, who is the source of all music that ever was, is or will be.

Our sacred texts describe the specific tasks required for spiritual growth in every Yuga - Dhyana (Tranquility of mind) for Kritha Yuga, Yagna (Sacrifice) for Tretha Yuga, Archana (Worship) for Dwapara Yuga and the simplest of all has been reserved for the present age of Kali Yuga - Keerthana or singing the glory of God. Swami says ―Wherever my glory is sung, I Install myself there‖. For many devotees the entry point to the ―World of Sai‖ is bhajans. Like the attraction of the Sun maintaining the planets in orbit, Bhagawan attracts His devo-tees through the peace they experience in their heart after participating in their very first Sai bhajan session.

Music is so powerful that it can move mountains and melt our hearts. For me, it is the very gateway through which Swami enters my heart. Bhajans give me a lot of motivation and in turn encourage me to do a lot of Sadha-na. The transformative power carried by them is one reason why Bhagawan emphasizes on bhajans as constituting a very important part in our spiritual journey.

God is formless but out of His boundless love, He assumes any form His devotees ask for. When I sing or listen to a bhajan, I feel that He changes His form depending on the bhajan being sung. He crawls as baby Krishna with His rosy lips and mouth covered in yogurt and butter when we hear ―Chitha Chora Yashoda Ke Bal‖. In ―He Nanda Nanda Gopal Ananda Nanda Gopal‖, it is the naughty boy Krishna who invites us to play with Him on the banks of the Chitravathi river. And the same Sai Krishna becomes the enchanting dancer in ―Gopala Gopala Nacho Gopala‖. He then takes the form of ―Gita Krishna‖ in ―Kalyana Krishna Kamaneeya Krishna‖ instructing us on the wonderful dictum "Love for God, Fear of Sin and Morality in Society". The same Krishna seems to come rushing to help us when we plead to Him singing ―Nandalala Nandala la Daya Karo Bhagwan‖ and ―Krishna, Shri Hari Krishna‖.

A similar feeling occurs when singing or listening to Shiva Bhajans. Swami transforms into that Supreme Power when the raaga Re-vathi is being sung as in the bhajan ―Bhasma Bhushitaanga Sai Chandrashekara‖. Swami reveals to us that He is the commander and sustainer of all the worlds and will take care of every single aspect of all of our lives. We then

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get a glimpse of the divine couple dancing the ―Ananda Thandava‖ in Mount Kailash sur-rounded by His Ganas in the Bhajan ―Dhimitha Dhimitha Dhim‖. I am then re-minded of the advent of the Sai Avatar having its roots in the penance performed by Sage Bharadwaja in Mount Kailash. Swami then takes the form of the meditating Lord Shiva in the Bhajan ―Hari Om Namah Shivaya‖ gently prodding me to engage in meditation for my spiritual growth.

Who can deny the beauty of Rama with mother Seetha and Lakshmana in the Bhajan ―Danava Bhanjana Ram‖. On the other hand, Swami becomes the aggressive Rama who de-feats Ravana in the line ―Ravana Mardhana Vighna Bhanjana‖. In the Bhajan ―Raghava Sundara Rama Raghuvara‖ who takes the nec-

tarine form of our Swami in the next line "Parthi Pureeshwara Sai Narayana". The sweetest of all is when Swami is just Himself - as the embodiment of Love - in the Bhajan ―Hari Bhajana Bina Sukha Shanthi Nahin‖. The moment one hears this, one is filled with peace and love. A simple bhajan undoubtedly leads to transformation of the heart.

Singing bhajans enables us to see and com-municate with Swami which is essential for our spiritual progress. Swami says ―If you take one step towards me, I shall take ten steps, nay, a hundred steps towards you‖. So, why not take this simple step of singing a Bhajan with all our heart and let Swami flow through us and fill this entire universe with love.

Om Sri Sai Aapad Bandhavaaya Namaha Bhanumathy Gopalan

Mother of Sathya Sankar Gopalan

Om Sri Sairam. Prayerful salutations at the Lotus Feet of our dear Bhagawan.

As I look back at our lives, I can gratefully vouch for Bhagawan's loving hands having guided our family through every single jolt and jubilation, pain and pacification, tribulation and triumph. He has been charting the course of our lives from even before we realized His presence on earth as this wonderful Avatar. The learning and transformation that we obtained from the challenging days our lives is invaluable, and in fact makes us relish those experiences.

A few years back, we went through a troubled phase of life. Our son was studying in Swami's college at that time. It was Navaratri time and Bhagawan was in Prasanthi Nilayam. With a lot of prayer and hopes to at least give a letter to Swami, I went to Puttaparthi. Due to the large c rowds , darshan was in the Poornachandra auditorium. I could not get anywhere close to Bhagawan's path and was in fact sandwiched among other devotees thronging for His darshan. In a moment of desperation, I chastised Bhagawan in my mind saying that while I had come to pray for relief, Bhagawan was testing me even further. At that

"I came with you when you came into this world.

I am always within you, above you, below you and around you.

I have saved you from many a danger and you did not recognize Me"

- Baba

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A Letter to My Sweet Swami Shreya Sankar

Daughter of Sathya Sankar Gopalan

instant, I heard a voice echo to me in Tamil "you repeatedly ask for Me to come, but don't have the patience to wait for Me". The Tamil word for come is "Va". Along with the voice, the letters on the stage "Shirdi Sai Ram" and "Parthi Sai Ram" became "Shi[Va]rdi Sai Ram" and "Par[Va]thi Sai Ram". I realized then that the message Bhagawan was emphasizing through this, was the fact that Bhagawan was verily the incarnation of Shiva-Shakti. And to get the darshan of the Lord and His consort, one must do a lot of penance, but here I was, getting to see the Lord so easily. I learnt that the experiences I was undergoing in my life were part of that penance and I should face the difficulties with firm faith in Him, for without such troubles, I would not have turned towards Him in the first place.

At another time, Bhagawan came out for Darshan in a resplendent golden robe. His face

was effulgent and He was radiating so much love that I yearned to touch His feet and do pada seva. However, I was way back in the lines and I could not in any way get closer to him. I kept praying within myself, "Swami, Swami, Swami". As Bhagawan continued to come down the lines, He looked in my direction and I could hear His voice in me saying "What is Swami? See Woman And Man as I". With that profound message, He beautifully brought out the realization in me that He was indeed present in everyone and everything in this universe.

Bhagawan has been teaching our family through such wonderful messages from the simplest of things. We are eternally grateful for His compassion in taking us into His fold, and guiding us ever lovingly as we inch closer to Him one step at a time.

Dear Swami,

My humble pranams at your Divine Lotus Feet.

My parents and SSE teachers have taught me that it is very important to follow Your words. I try to follow Your words by not fighting on silly things with my friends, by being polite and by singing bhajans many times during the day.

I love the way You smile at me whenever I look at You in the photograph in our home. I really like it when you raise Your hand in a blessing. I also like it when You come in my dreams, and want you to come often. Especially the dream in which You came to my SSE class and blessed my SSE brothers and sisters and me.

I do have a question to ask you. You say that we are also God just like You. But how is it that You know everything and we don't? Thank You for making my teeth fall out just like I had whispered to you last year during Darshan in Puttaparthi. Thank You for giving me good friends, family and most importantly, You. Please be with us always and let us be with You always.

Your loving child,

Shreya Sankar

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Swami Is My True Mother And Father Karthik Srinivasan

During April/May 1998, I had the good fortune of traveling with our dear Lord to Kodaikanal. On April 18th, Swami asked me to deliver a talk in public and inquired about my choice of topic. I mentioned that I am going to talk about His love. The same day, I had eaten too much and developed indigestion. Next morning I was in pain and did not go for the usual walk. My stomach was churning and on that day, I was sitting close to His Lotus feet. I was in pain but could not move as we were all sitting very close to each other.

When Swami asked us to go and start lunch, I ran to the the bathroom to throw up. When I came back, Swami was in the kitchen and

asked what had happened. I mentioned my problem and He created vibhuti and asked to go upstairs and rest. He also mentioned that He would send rice porridge. In the afternoon, Swami asked who was speaking that day and I raised my hand. He said, if you are not feeling well, it is ok. But I insisted that I would speak no matter what happened. I was afraid that I would never get another chance. So finally, I made it to the podium and I had no idea what I spoke, as I was in pain. But I remember I did speak about Swami's love and His hospital and the water project. When I finished, I just ran back to the room to lie down as I could not bear the pain. Later, Swami made fun of me, that I

The Loving Touch of Mother Sai’s Hand Kushala Yedatore

Spouse of Karthik Srinivasan

I offer my humble pranams to our sweet Lord and thank Him for giving me this wonderful opportunity.

What can I say about our dear Bhagawan? A mere thought of Him leaves us speechless and filled with eternal bliss. A small glance from His divine eyes removes all impurities from our mind, body, and heart. He is the Eternal Truth residing in every being. And He‘s my best friend.

When I was three years old my health had turned for the worse and no amount of treatment was helping. Out of desperation my mother brought me to Puttaparthi in hopes that the ever loving Lord would cure my illness. At the time, I did not know who Swami was or why we were visiting Him. As my mother and I climbed the staircase under the blazing sun, I continuously pestered my mother asking her who this ―Swami‖ was and why it was so important to see Him. Her only response was ―you‘ll understand when you meet Him‖. That day, after many hours of walking, sitting, and

waiting Swami finally came out of a door in the very back of the ashram. There was a sudden hush among the crowd as He stepped out with a loving smile on His serene face. I looked around wondering why everyone was suddenly so quiet. When I looked towards Swami He gave me the most loving smile I had ever seen. My mother whispered in my ear ―pray to Him, ask Him for good health and wisdom‖. However, being a three year old child all I could think about was candy (especially since my stomach was grumbling with hunger). So instead I asked Swami for some chocolates. The next thing I knew, a lot of candy was being thrown at me. I was buried in chocolates. Years later when I asked my mother of this incident she attested that these chocolates were being materialized right out of His hand! Not knowing the significance of such an event I happily sat in my seat eating as much chocolate as my stomach could handle. When the flow of chocolates finally stopped, I looked towards Swami for a long time. He continued to smile lovingly at me. At that

did so much of the dance "Bharatnatyam" on stage—so much dancing, shaking and moving my hands all over the place. Everyone had a good laugh.

But, I knew how much my Divine Mother cared for me no matter how I am. I am used to Swami scolding me like a dad always and giving me many names and calling me

―Vayadi” (talkative). But it was during that Kodai trip that He made me realize that He is my TRUE MOTHER and FATHER and how much He cares.

(Karthik studied in the Parthi campus from 1997 to 1999 completing his MBA. Degree. He currently lives in Los Angeles,California, USA)

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moment, I asked Him with all my heart if He would be my best friend. He gently nodded and smiled.

From that day on Swami became an integral part of my life. My illness soon subsided and after my fourth birthday my family and I moved to the United States where my life would change forever. Although I was no longer in His immediate physical presence, Swami was very much there throughout our

daily lives. His love helped us overcome many obstacles and gave us strength to face new ones. He gave me company when I had none and listened to my heart when I had no one to share my thoughts. None can compare to the friendship of God. The Lord‘s love is like the loving touch of a mother‘s hand, with every comforting stroke wiping away one‘s sorrows and miseries.

Home Is Where the Heart Is Vikas Lama

Every man aspires for happiness and peace. One of the countless benefits of having an Avatar amidst us is that He makes our means to happiness easier, faster and surer. Millions of people around the world have experienced the countless blessings of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba in the form of miracles, cures and lessons which are directed to correct one individual and guide many to happiness and peace.

After a month-long hectic preparations for our annual sports meet during my first year at Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, the grand celebrations and excitement came to an end. And suddenly all the students were thrown in the vast expanse of books and notes to prepare for final semester exams. This herald of final semester exams brought shivers in the hostel but threw sunshine as well. This sunshine behind those dark clouds of exams was the long summer holidays that everybody would have! And the last day of exam, literally meant the day to go home!

One night, a roommate during the quiet study hours in the hostel room exclaimed ―Fifty days to go home!‖ Since that day this exclamation became a group indulgence and continued everyday with ―Forty nine days… forty eight days…forty one and so on.‖ Soon I noticed a tiny poster pasted at the end of the room. At a closer view it read ―Countdown Chart.‖ It was a calendar with number of days remaining to go home and a cross was

marked at each passing day at the end of the day. This process of marking a cross in the countdown chart continued from ‗thirty days to go home‘ until the most awaited day arrived and we marked the last cross to mark ‗zero days to go home.‘ We all wished each other happy holidays and packed our bags and went home!

During the vacation, time flew by. Two months later we were again back to our busy hostel life. A new semester had started and soon we were again amidst books and notes preparing for mid-semester exams, which would be soon followed by a short winter holiday. This time I decided - to not go home- and instead stayed back to enjoy the chance of Bhagawan`s close proximity. This would be special as few students remained in the hostel. Most students from nearby cities and states would go home for two weeks.

One evening I was seated in the portico near the VIP seating area. Swami started talking to the boys. Suddenly, Swami called me (near Him) beside the many VIP devotees seated and began enquiring about me - where did I come from, what course I was studying for in the college and other casual questions.

Lastly Swami asked, ―Are you going home?‖ I answered, ―No Swami.‖

With a happy twinkle in His eyes He turned to the many VIPs seated and said, ―Look at our students, even in their vacations

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they don‘t want to go home, they want to stay back with Swami. But in outside colleges, many days before the holidays begin, they make Countdown Charts to go home!‖

Bhagawan`s messages and lessons come so appropr ia te ly and di rec t ly , i t means everything to the individual whom it is meant for but may seem to be a quick joke to the rest of the crowd. Since that day, I never counted days to go home but today when I write this, I

wish to make a countdown chart to go Home: The Abode of Highest Peace. Little did I know, where my real home is, but that fine day Bhagawan showed me- Home is Where the Heart Is.

(Vikas studied in the Parthi campus from 1990 to 1995 completing his B.Sc., and M.Sc. Degrees. He currently lives in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada)

Namah Kritsnaveetaaya Dhaavate

Satvanaam Pataye Namaha Venkata Ramana Kotamraju

The most sacred vedic hymn Shatarudriyam describes GOD as Kritsnaveetaaya - Omnipresent and Dhaavate Satvanaam - Loving one who runs after His devotees, like a cow following the calf - to protect them (Commentator- Abhinava Shankara). A parlance may be drawn to a mother running after her child who is just learning to walk. There is no better evidence of this divinity other than our mother Sai‘s love for the devotees: protecting them and guiding them. Here is a small experience that I had in my life unfolding this aspect of Swami to me.

It was on the morning of 18th February 1987, Swami called XII class boys into the interview room and spoke about surrender then later on moved to other topics. He suddenly asked, ―Boys! how many grahas are there? and what are they.‖ The answers were obviously uncoordinated but spontaneous from most of the 63 assembled. Then He said, ―Do you want to see them‖, and as the imaginations went crazy, He created a gold plate with Navagraha devatas‘ pic tures etched around Lord Suryanarayana on it. Swami allowed each one of us to hold it in our hands and later blessed us by personally touching our heads with this incredible creation. He made the moment extremely special by saying that we are fortunate to be able to even see it. He etched His message into our hearts further saying, ―Swami A n u g r a h a m u U n t e N a v a g r a h a l u E m i Cheyalevu‖ - navagrahas cannot do anything adverse when you have Swami‘s grace. We, XII class boys made it a point to keep this un-erasable memory very dear in our hearts by wri t ing and sending le t ters to Swami

collectively for some years on that day of each year. Surely, we who experienced this will hold it as a special moment forever in our lives.

Fast forward 17th February 2005, Thursday evening ( Morning, Feb 18th, IST) I was in the US and in a bhajan. My life was so far a very tumultuous ride filled with its own difficulties and trying situations. I remembered His words and that prompted me to lead the bhajan ―Bramhaanda Naayaka Baba...‖ Though, not trained, I could still lead reasonably well with His grace, His words, memories and lyrics of the bhajan without disturbing the devotees. Across the continents and the oceans He heard me and appeared in my dream - I was entering Prashanthinilayam while a Young Adults (YA)meeting was being addressed by a YA. Then Swami addressed the gathering-

Anda Pinda Bramhandammulandu Undunandure Kalimi Chelimilandu Undunandure Kashta Sukhammulandu Undumandure

Meaning: You (devotees) say - ―I pervade and reside in all the living and non living and also the entire cosmos- omnipresent. I am with you in prosperity and in good times. You pray that I should be with you in your good and bad‖. Kritsnaveetaaya Dhavate Satvanaam Pataye.

Then He came to me, took my letter, looked into my eyes and repeated twice ―Undunandure, Undumandure‖ (Meaning: You say I am there and You ask me to be there). These words stuck to my heart and keep ringing in my ears to this day.

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Now the dream took an unimaginable turn with the discourse completed and every one dispersing. Swami walked next to senior students but no one ever bothered to even acknowledge His presence. Then He walked few steps with me and disappeared. At the same time I felt a cockroach creeping into the sleeves on my hands. Unable to bear the uncomfortable and strange feel on my body, involuntarily grabbed it and thumped it on the ground purely out of reflex. The cockroach dropped almost dead. That moment I realized that it was Swami. He just said that He is in all the living and nonliving. In a fit of thoughtless impulse I rejected Him and unintentionally hurt Him. As I was feeling bad and praying fervently this little creature started to recover slowly and moved away. My agony was inexplicable and I could recover only after a long time. I prayed fervently for forgiveness. As life moved on I faced situations when I needed Him the most and He was with me. But when things got worse I could not take it anymore

and tried to move away from Him mentally and also from the center activities. But the Compassionate One was still guiding me in my life through dreams even asking me about trivial activities that I participate at the centers that I restarted to attend. Omnipresent and Omniscient Love that He is, He can alone guard and guide His loved ones in most unimaginable and inimitable ways. I have only a prayer that, ―Swami, No matter what I ask and say - Never Forsake me, Please be with me always in all my lives‖. Truly, He is the omnipresent, the loving mother, the Krishna who declared ―....... Yoga Kshemam Vahaamyaham‖ and also the Shiva whom the vedas extol ; to Him I bow down ―Namah Kritsnaveetaaya Dhavate Satvanaam Pataye Namaha‖.

(Venkata Ramana studied in the Brindavan and Parthi campuses from 1985 to 1992 completing his High School, B.Sc., and M.Sc. Degrees. He currently lives in Santa Barbara, California, USA)

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Our Pledge Renewed

You brought me up lovingly as a child Bestowing in abundance, Your Divine Grace

You made me the person I am today Teaching me to handle all that I face

The mother that You are, You fed me everyday And tucked me into bed happily, every night The father that You are, You chided me often

Until I learned to separate the wrong from right

The teacher that You are, You taught me all Walking into the class, checking what I learn

The God that You are, You fostered in me All human values, as the only wealth I can earn

For all this, When I asked how I can repay You You smiled, "All I want is your faith and love" Today I renew my pledge with vigour, Swami With Your feet in my heart, as I see You above

You may have chosen to leave today The shackles of the body at Thy will But I know today is the beginning Of Your larger play, unseen still

Therefore, I shall not shed a tear

For I have You etched in my heart And I know You are mine, I am yours

Physical death cannot do us apart

I see Your brilliance every morning In the brightness of the sun's rays

And when I look up to see the moon I so clearly see Your loving face

How then can someone tell me at all That Your Darshan is now history When I can see You all around me

For, You're God and that's no mystery

Poem by Gopi Krishna Polavarapu April 24th 2011

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My Dear Boys,

The bird with you, the wings with Me.

The foot with you, the way with Me.

The eye with you, the Form with Me.

The thing with you, the dream with Me.

The world with you, the heaven with Me.

So we are free, so we are bound.

So we begin and so we end.

You in Me and I in you.

Blessings

Baba

Poem by Swami sent to students of the Brindavan Hostel

On 26th January, 1974