The False Teacher Preaches, the Real Teacher Practices

In ancient times, it was not teaching alone; people had to learn through practice. But today thousands of people sit and listen to a person preaching – “Don’t utter falsehood, everybody is God, etc.” While such a teacher is teaching, his attention is on his slippers outside. Whether they are safe or not! After the meeting, he comes outside to see if his slippers are there or not. If the slippers aren’t there, then he will give one more lecture! “Having come to learn about spirituality, how can you steal my slippers?” – This would be the theme of his new lecture! Because his slippers are missing, he makes so much noise; but the pupils who have similarly lost their slippers are silent. How can they learn from such a teacher? Therefore we should first practice, then preach. Only then others will follow. 

Therefore in today’s world, when people without any practice preach such things, their words go into the air and nobody is inspired to put them into action. If they were genuine, at least some would have changed. Even if one person changes, it is enough. That change should come. Without changing the mind, the change of the dress is of no use. You may have changed the dress (Gudda), but have you changed the quality (Guna)? The man has changed but the mind has not changed. What is the use? Don’t have faith in such people. 

People keep complaining – “I have got so many responsibilities and difficulties, how to escape these?” These problems will be there till your death. If you want to take bath in the ocean when the waves subside, you will never be able to take bath, as the waves will never subside. You can’t do anything to suppress the waves. You just change your direction and take bath. That ocean is the ocean of life; and the waves symbolise the constantly appearing difficulties. These will come, but once you have entered, you should be able to accomplish your tasks. You should not get scared of the ocean and the waves thinking what will happen if you drown. You should proceed with your work, only then your life’s goal will be accomplished. If you are greedy, how do you expect to succeed? What is it that you have sacrificed in this life? Nothing! You have not sacrificed your time, your actions, your attachments, and your ego; there is nothing that you have sacrificed. Moreover, these are on the rise on a daily basis. Then what is the use of staying with God? 

Source: Unity of Thought, Word and Deed, Discourse 2, My Dear Students Volume 5

Sai And His Students - By S.K.P.M. Ajay Ram

On 20th October 1940, a 14-year-old boy from a small village made a famous declaration - a declaration, which changed the world, that “I am Sai Baba.” The declaration brought a revolution? No! A Sai revolution in this world. That declaration initiated the great Mission by the Poorna Avatar, Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba of fostering the eternal - values of Satya, Dharma, Shanti, Prema and Ahimsa in the hearts of the people. None other than God could undertake such a Mission. We students are very fortunate to witness such Divinity to our entire satisfaction. 

Today, evil qualities are on the ascent. Man has strayed away from the path of Dharma, and is swayed away by Kama (desire), Krodha (anger), Lobha (greed), Moha (infatuation), Mada (pride) and Matsarya (envy). If this were the trend of human life in the future, mankind would soon come to an end. So God descends to protect His dearest creation from extinction. In the Treta Yuga, Rama descended to eliminate the evil demons. In the Dwapara Yuga, Krishna incarnated to kill the evil people. In Kali Yuga, God came down to earth in the form of Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba to eradicate the evil in the minds of people. 

“Dharma Samstapanarthaya Sambhavami Yuge Yuge”

“For establishing Dharma, I incarnate from time to time.”

These are the golden words of Sri Krishna as told to Arjuna. Our beloved Sai Krishna stands as a testimony to this Divine message. Bhagavan Baba is the - Sarva Devata Swaroopa. (The manifestation of all Gods) There are innumerable instances when Swami revealed this truth by appearing in the forms of various gods and goddesses to various people. He is Lord Dhanvantari who eradicates the diseases of many people. The following incident illustrates this: 

About forty years ago, there was a thirty-year-old woman who was suffering from cancer. She did not know about Bhagavan and her father was completely against Bhagavan. But the family was deeply devoted to Lord Rama. She was admitted to the famous hospital at Vellore. The doctors treated her, but it was in vain. Her condition grew worse and the doctors began to lose all their hope. While she was in the room, half conscious, she saw a man wearing the dress of a doctor with a red robe and a big halo of hair. She had seen him in a calendar somewhere and recognized him as ‘Sai Baba’. He came near her and did something, but she could not make out what has happening. After sometime, he disappeared. The next day, the doctors opened her room and were astonished to see their patient, who a day before was no even able to utter a word, sitting on the bed and talking. When they performed the tests, they found that she was completely cured! Later, she recovered completely and eventually became ardent devotee of Swami. 

Bhagavan Baba is Lord Dakshinamurti - the storehouse of knowledge. The main aspect of His mission is educating people in human values and making them spiritually rich. This was the main motivation behind the establishment of wonderful centers of learning by Him. I consider myself very fortunate to study in His school at Prasanthi Nilayam. 

I would like to narrate the way I was admitted to Sri Sathya Sai Secondary School. Even though some of the members of my family had been ardent devotees of Bhagavan for a long time, I was not very much devoted to Swami. Right from my birth, I used to fall ill very frequently. Each time it was the Divine grace of Baba that saved me. 

When I was in tenth class, may be it was due to the Divine Will to draw me towards Him that I had to suffer from a serious illness. On the advice of some well-wishers, I was brought to Prasanthi Nilayam. That was my first visit to Prasanthi Nilayam. It was in January 2001 that I saw the Divine form for the first time in my life. I was thrilled at the sight of Bhagavan. After the Darshan while I was going out of the Mandir, an old lady asked me, “Are you a student in Sri Sathya Sai Institute?” Obviously the answer was “No.” But this incident sowed in me the desire of joining Swami’s Institution. So I applied for a seat in the eleventh class. In course of time, I had a wonderful experience. 

I kept Baba’s photo as the background picture of my computer screen. It was on Mahasivaratri day. When I went to work on the computer, I was surprised by what I saw. There was Vibhuti on the computer screen and some of it was scattered around! It was definitely a Divine sign. After a few days, I received the call letter for the written test. I got through the examination and attended the interview. But I felt that I did not perform satisfactorily in the interview and was very disappointed and wept the whole night. But Swami’s Grace admitted me to the Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School. 

After coming to this school, I have learnt many things. The first thing is that just an admission in the school or Institute does not make one a student. Only when one follows the teachings of Swami does one become an ‘Ideal Sai student’. I had the good fortune of listening to Swami’s Divine discourses on the occasion of every festival. All His teachings can be condensed into just four letters: LOVE. Each and every word of Swami reveals a great truth and His Divine Love. In Prasanthi Nilayam, I believe that each and every particle of air, each and every sand particle, each and every tree and each and every heart is full of love. Moreover, the treasure house of love - Sri Sathya Sai Baba - whose love is equivalent to that of a thousand mothers, nay, innumerable mothers is living with us, leading and guiding us to liberation from worldly matters. 

Swami’s first message to mankind is Love. There is a proverb in Telugu, “Manava Sevaye Madhava Seva” meaning service to man is the service to God. Service is the main part of a Sai student’s life. The Grama Seva, organized every year, is proof of this. The service being done by the Sri Sathya Sai Seva organisations is enormous. The service programmes spreading worldwide include provision of free education, free health and free water. None other than our beloved Baba can take up such massive projects. Swami’s second message to mankind is Service. Swami puts His message beautifully in a simple sentence: Love All; Serve All. This is a universal dictum. 

We have to learn many good aspects of life from Swami. His simplicity, His love, His compassion, His confidence, His determination and His sacrificing nature are truly noble for mankind to follow. The first message that I received from Swami is, “Never fail to discharge your duties whatever may be the circumstances.” This message was not told in words but shown to me, and to all, practically, when He took over the mumps of a small boy during the Gurupoornima celebrations. Many of us would have seen the swollen face, which might have been very painful for Swami. But He never failed to give His Divine Darshan, Sparshan and Sambhashan to His devotees and the students in spite of that pain. He always says, “My Life is My Message.” 

The students of Sai have a great responsibility upon them. The primary source of energy, the Divine conflagration is present here. We are like candles. We have to light ourselves with the fire of spiritual knowledge and clear the darkness of ignorance from our minds. The whole world is gathering at the Lotus Feet of Swami. He is the fertile soil and we, the plants. We emerge from the soil, grow, proper and again merge in the same soil. But the cattle of ignorance, lust, greed, anger, hatred and violence may eat us away before we merge. So we have to consume the manure of Love and protect ourselves with the fence of Devotion. 

Oh Divine Lord Oh Master of Masters!

You are the boatman; make me Your oar,

You are the Divine farmer, make me Your plough,

You are the Divine mechanic,

Who came down to repair this world.

Make me your tools,

And use in Your Divine mission.

Swami, my Beloved,

I love You, I bow to You.

I pray to You, I surrender to You. 

- S.K.P.M. Ajay Ram
Student (2007-2009), Department of Physics
Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning
Prasanthi Nilayam Campus
Currently, Post-Doctoral Fellow at IIT, Italy

Source: Sai Nandana 2005 (80th Birthday Issue)

When Swami gave cooling glasses to a student...

Monday, June 26, 2000 

Evening

During evening Darshan, Swami enquired Prof. Anil Kumar whether he was all right or not.

Prof. A. K. : Swami after one dose itself, I was all right.

Swami : (Joking) It is not because of the Vibhuti, but because you spoke with your wife! Isn’t it? (Prof. Anil Kumar and all others laughed. After some time, Swami came out of the interview room and went near the birthday boys.) These many birthday boys? Eight boys. (Swami materialised Vibhuti and distributed to all the eight students. Swami asked their names. Four students told their names. Pointing to the fifth student, He asked) Which class are you in?

Student : Ist class Swami.

Swami : Your age?

Student : Six years, Swami.

Swami : How do you know?

Student : Swami, father and mother say so. (Swami smiled, went inside the interview room, came out with a cooling glass. He went straight to a student and asked) Was it to you I told about your eyes?

Student : Yes, Swami. (Swami gave the cooling glass to the student and told him to wear it. The student wore it. Looking at this, devotees clapped.) See, all the ladies are clapping for you, but gents cannot see. (Referring to the eyes) Yesterday, they were very red, today they are less red. Wear the glasses when you are exposed to sun. (To a guest) Where are you living at present?

Guest : London, Swami.

After sometime, Swami took the waiting students (those students who have completed their education in Swami’s Institute and are waiting for His guidance for their future course of action) for interview. There, Swami told them about the Heart-Lung machine. After this, Swami, came out to the portico and started taking letters from students.

Prof. A. K. : Swami, staff quarters is glittering.

Swami : Ah!

Prof. A. K. : Swami, staff quarters is being painted, cleaned and repaired. Very nice, Swami. They are even changing old taps. 

Swami : Inside also, it should be clean. When are you going to Dharmavaram? 29th, 30th…

Prof. A. K. : Swami, she is coming tomorrow.

Swami : (To another teacher) When I am asking about him, he tells about his wife! (Swami took letters from many students and everybody asked for Padanamaskar. Swami called Dr. Siva Sankara Sai, Warden of the Senior Students’ Hostel at Prasanthi Nilayam. (A former student and Research Scholar of Swami’s University, Dr. Siva Sankara Sai was appointed as the Warden of the Hostel in 1994. He is also a Faculty Member in the Department of Physics at the Institute.) He showed Swami the photographs of students newly selected for the Institute Brass Band. Swami said something and called one of the newly selected students and spoke to him. Swami called a fat boy.) Hey boy! (The student came running.) Where do you come from? 

Student : Vijayawada, Swami. Swami, my mother is not well.

Swami : If she is staying so far, what can I do? Do you have so much of love for your mother?

Student : Yes, Swami. (Swami materialised Vibhuti for the student.) 

Swami : (To a teacher) From which place does this Pakoda (Swami used to lovingly call all fat students with this appellation. Literally, it meant a fried Indian savoury) come? 

Teacher : Swami, he is from Bejavada.

Swami : (To the student) From Bejavada…..

Student : Yes, Swami.

Swami : What is your belt size, sir? (Everybody laughed. Swami took letters from students and asked a student, pointing a person who was standing next to the pillar) Is he a Seva Dal?

Prof. A. K. : Swami, might be a new security person.

Swami : (Swami called the person.) Where do you come from?

Seva Dal : Swami, I come from Delhi.

Swami : Oh! Delhi, Himachal Pradesh. I know. (Swami materialised Vibhuti for him. Calling a Visiting Professor, Swami took a letter from him.) Take Padanamaskar. (To the Visiting Professor) Where do you come from?

Professor : Shimla, Swami.

Swami : I know Himachal Pradesh. I have been to Shimla six times. I went there while going to Jammu and Kashmir. Meetings used to be there in cross roads. People used to climb trees to look at Me.

Prof. A. K. : Swami, this professor comes every year to teach our boys.

Swami : I know.

Professor : There are so many devotees in Shimla, Swami.

Swami : Yes, there are many devotees. (Swami called Warden, Dr. Siva Sankara Sai) Are boys having sports?

Warden : Yes, Swami. Daily they go for jogging and exercise.

Prof. A. K. : Excise, Swami.

Swami : No excise, it is exercise. You are speaking Guntur-English, Botany-English. (To Warden) Exercise Chestava? (Do you exercise?)

Warden : Swami, we exercise. Swami, students want Poornachandra session.

Swami : Why you are telling? Nobody is asking Me.

Students : Swami, please Poornachandra session, Swami.

Swami : Yesterday boys asked Me. I showed them there – there is Poornachandra.

Source: Students with Sai: Conversations (2000-2001)

Role of Multinationals in India: Sri Sathya Sai Perspective

If some foreign company is willing to set up operations in India, it could be with some hidden agenda and not merely to help India. They may mask their intentions by saying that they would definitely help us with the latest technology and other pretext. But it may not be so. Most often, they come to realise their own self-seeking motives. 

It is a gross mistake on the part of the government to depend on the multinationals alone for the development of the economy. By giving suitable encouragement and aid, businesses in India can be developed by motivating local talent itself. If there is something technical that needs to be learnt, it can be done by sending qualified people abroad. Such expatriates would gain knowledge of specific tools, techniques and technology and return to India. This would be appropriate. It may not be proper to assume that it is the foreign companies alone that can churn out right things to satisfy India’s needs. The government must ensure that the foreign businesses are permitted to start their operations in India only with proper checks and balances.

This may not work out in accordance with this thinking in the long run owing to the dependence of government on foreign investments. They permit them to set up companies here due to several international obligations and economic expediencies. These steps however are likely to cause more problems and harm India’s interests. India should not be required to depend upon anybody. It must rely entirely on truth and righteousness. Other nations may find it difficult to understand the significance of truth and righteousness in relation to business. It is also said, “That which is not found in India cannot be found anywhere else”. Be it mathematics, spirituality, scriptures, law, natural sciences or others - these fields trace their roots in India. Today, companies are purchasing material worth one rupee from India, making some value addition and selling it back in India with massive margins. What we regard as waste is being transformed to something useful by adding value and is being exported back here as some other item. Hence, it is better if we can discover how that which is considered useless could be transformed into something useful. We must learn the technique from other countries and then return to our country and make efforts to implement it in India. 

Source: Social Culture and Management: National and International Perspectives, Chapter 18, Man Management: A Values-Based Management Perspective

Srimad Ramayana Sudha Pravachana Saptaha

Sri Sathya Sai presiding over the weeklong Celebrations at Prasanthi Nilayam

Sunday, June 22, 2008 to Saturday, June 29, 2008

Bhagavan Baba inaugurated a programme of talks entitled ‘Srimad Ramayana Sudha Pravachana Saptaha‘, on 22nd June, 2008, in Sai Kulwant Hall. This programme was held from 22nd to 27th June, 2008 and culminated in Pattabhisheka Mahotsava on 28th June, 2008. The inaugural ceremony was preceded by a grand procession of idols of Rama, Lakshmana, Sita and Hanuman in a palanquin from Yajur Mandir to Sai Kulwant Hall led by Nadaswaram music and Vedic chanting group of priests carrying Poorna Kumbam at 4.30 pm. These idols were then placed on an altar on the dais for worship.

The Idols placed in the center of the portico in the Sai Kulwant Hall

On 23rd June, 2008, Sri Malla Pragada Sriman Narayana Murthi of Guntur gave a talk on the Ayodhya Kanda (Second Chapter) of the Ramayana.

On 24th June, 2008, Dr. Ranganath of Bangalore spoke on the inner significance of the Aranya Kanda (Third Chapter) of Ramayana.

On 25th June, 2008, Dr. Thangirala Venkata Subbarao of Bangalore recounted all the events of Kishkindha Kanda (Fourth Chapter) of Ramayana.

On 26th June, 2008, Dr. Mylavaram Srinivasa Rao of Guntur spoke on the Sundara Kanda (Fifth Chapter) of Ramayana. 

On 27th June, 2008, Dr. Garikipati Narasimha Rao of Kakinada spoke on Yuddha Kanda (Sixth Chapter) of Ramayana.

On 28th June, 2008, in the morning, after the Divine Darshan of Bhagavan in Sai Kulwant Hall, the priests performed Abhishekam to the idols in the traditional way and decorated the idols. The idol of Sri Rama was placed in a palanquin and the priests brought it and placed it on the dais amidst Vedic chanting and Nadaswaram music. The Pattabhishekam ceremony concluded with crowning the idols with gold crowns blessed by Bhagavan, amidst Mantra chanting and Nadaswaram music. At the conclusion of the rituals, Bhagavan presented watches to the priests. He also materialised two gold chains for two priests. All the priests worshipped the Lotus Feet of Bhagavan by offering flowers. While the Bhajans were sung by the Institute students, Prasadam was distributed to one and all. Mangala Aarati was offered to Bhagavan at 11.30 am, marking the conclusion of the function.

On the afternoon of 28th June, 2008, idols were placed on a swing in Sai Kulwant Hall and were worshipped by the priests. Thereafter, Sri M. G. Venkataraghavan and party presented classical Carnatic devotional music in the Divine Presence of Bhagavan at 4.30 pm. After this concert, Bhagavan blessed the Institute students to sing a few classical pieces. The programme concluded at 6.15 pm. Bhagavan then honoured Sri Venkataraghavan and other artistes with shawls. The grand finale of the seven day Ramayana function was Bhagavan’s nectarine Discourse which He delivered on this evening.

The Concluding Rama Pattabhishekam

Bhagavan said, “Constant contemplation on Rama and singing His glory confers peace and prosperity on all. It is better if all join and sing together instead of singing individually. Guru Nanak therefore started the practice of group singing. When many people join together and sing the glory of Rama wholeheartedly and contemplate on Him, the prayer of a few at least may reach the Lord and all may earn His grace. Develop Ekatma Bhava (feeling of oneness). That is real devotion. If you want to have the vision of Atma, consider ‘I’ and ‘We’ as the same. Then you will see oneness of all. Give up the differences of thine and mine. All are one, be alike to everyone. This is the essence of Vedanta”.

At the conclusion of the Divine Discourse, Mangala Aarati was offered to Bhagavan at 7.50 pm. Then, concluded Srimad Ramayana Sudha Pravachana Saptaha at Prasanthi Nilayam.

Source: Sri Sathya Sai Digvijayam, Part 3 (2006 – 2011)

Shri Guru Stotram

1. Akhanda Mandalaakaaram Vyaaptam Yena Charaacharam

Tatpadam Darshitam Yena Tasmai Shri Gurave Namaha.

2. Ajnaanatimiraandhasya Jnaanaanjanashalaakayaa

Chakshurun Meelitam Yena Tasmai Shri Gurave Namaha.

3. Gurur Brahma Gurur Vishnuhu Gurur Devo Maheshwaraha

Gurureva Param Brahmaa Tasmai Shri Gurave Namaha.

4. Staavaram Jangamam Vyaaptam Yatkinchit Sacharaacharam 

Tatpadam Darshitam Yena Tasmai Shri Gurave Namaha.

5. Chinmayam Vyaapi Yatsarvam Trailokyam Sacharaacharam

Tatpadam Darshitam Yena Tasmai Shri Gurave Namaha.

6. Sarva Shruti Shiroratna Viraajita Padaambujah

Vedaantaambujasooryo Yas Tasmai Shri Gurave Namaha

7. Chaitanyah Shaashvatah Shaanto Vyomaateeto Niranjanaha

Bindu Naad Kalaateetaha Tasmai Shri Gurave Namaha.

8. Jnaana Shakti Samaaroodhaha Tatvamaala Vibhooshitaha 

Bhukti Mukti Pradaataa Cha Tasmai Shri Gurave Namaha.

9. Aneka Janma Sampraapta Karmabandha Vidaahine

Aatma Jnaana Pradaanena Tasmai Shri Gurave Namaha.

10. Shoshanam Bhavasindhoscha Gnaapanam Saarasampadaha

Guroh Paadodakam Samyak Tasmai Shri Gurave Namaha.

11. Na Guroradhikam Tatvam Na Guroradhikam Tapaha

Tatvajnaanaat Param Naasti Tasmai Shri Gurave Namaha.

12. Mannaataha Shri Jagannaathaha Madguruh Shri Jagadguruhu

Madaatmaa Sarvabhutaatmaa Tasmai Shri Gurave Namaha.

13. Gururaadiranaadischa Guruh Paramadaivatam

Guroh Parataram Naasti Tasmai Shri Gurave Namaha.

Twameva Maataa Cha Pitaa Twameva

Twameva Bandhuscha Sakhaa Twameva

Twameva Vidyaa Dravinam Twameva

Twameva Sarvam Mama Deva Deva Shri Sai Deva.

SHRI GURU STOTRAM (MEANING)

1. I salute the preceptor who enabled me to have the vision of the Lord, who pervades all the moving and non-moving entities and also surrounds all of the universe. 

2. I salute the preceptor who opened my eyes which were blinded by the dark veil of ignorance, with the dart of wisdom. 

3. I salute the preceptor who is himself the Divine trinity – Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara and who is verily supreme Godhead. 

4. I salute the preceptor who enabled me to have the vision of the Lord, who pervades all of the moving and stationary entities in the universe. 

5. I salute the preceptor who enabled me to have the vision of the Lord, who is pure consciousness, pervades the three worlds with their moving and non-moving entities. 

6. I salute the preceptor whose lotus feet shine with the effulgence of all the Vedas which bow down to Him and who is the sun that makes the lotus of the Vedanta, bloom. 

7. I salute the preceptor who is the serene, blissful, eternal consciousness that transcends the space (sky) and the Bindu, Naada and Kalaa (aspects of the Pranava).

8. I salute the preceptor who is the master of all power of wisdom and is adorned by the garland of the highest principles, and who bestows upon us material affluence and also supreme liberation. 

9. I salute the preceptor who burns the bondage of Karma (consequences of one’s actions) accumulated over many births, by granting the knowledge of the Self. 

10. I salute the preceptor, by washing whose feet (partaking of that water) the ocean of life and death dries up and the secret of supreme wealth is revealed. 

11. I salute the preceptor who symbolises the highest principle and the greatest penance, and who embodies the supreme knowledge of the Self. 

12. I salute the preceptor who is my Lord and the Lord of the world, who is my Master and the Master of the universe, and who is the Indweller in me and the Indweller in all the beings. 

13. I salute the preceptor who has no origin but is the origin of everything and who is the supreme Godhead and in comparison to whom there is nothing higher. 

14. I salute the preceptor who embodies the supreme bliss, highest happiness and the ultimate knowledge, who transcends duality, the three qualities and all emotions, who is one eternal, pure and steady principle pervading all space and who is the witness to everything and the goal of all philosophies.

15. You are my mother and father, You are my relative and friend, You are my learning (education) and wealth. O supreme Lord, You alone are everything to me.

Source: Section 2, Stotrams, Vandana: Students Prayer Book

Why Should Students Study?

While joining the army first you have to go through the recruitment process. After recruitment you learn to use the equipment. This point in time, when you are getting education, is like the recruitment time. And then there is selection in the army. When you have proper training, it leads to proper life. Life is a challenge, meet it. Life is a game, play it. Life is love, enjoy it. Life is awareness and silence. What is this awareness? Seeing a piece of cloth and knowing it as a piece of cloth is not awareness. Knowing that the piece of cloth is a handkerchief is known as awareness. Complete understanding is only awareness. Therefore this complete understanding is only awareness. What is that you are studying as student? You are studying awareness. You are studying everything like walking, reading, eating, etc. It is not that bookish knowledge is only required. Bookish knowledge is superficial knowledge and this superficial knowledge should be converted into general knowledge. General knowledge should be converted into the knowledge of discrimination and finally this knowledge should be converted into practical knowledge. Till you get the practical knowledge you should keep on studying. Studying is only for becoming steady. You study to become steady. 

Study is not for roaming in lanes and streets. Why should you do this in the young age? At this age you should study only to know and devote yourself to God. If this small sapling straightens it becomes a stretched tree. If the sapling is crooked then the tree also becomes crooked. Therefore, you start early, drive slowly and reach safely. At this age if you practice this you will land up becoming a straight tree. If you think of your previous mistakes after retirement you land up into serious trouble. Unless you get that type of training now you can’t think of God in the later years of life. At this point of time you should learn worldly education, scientific education and moral education and get trained in all of these. That is what Bhagavatam says, ‘When the messenger of death tries to drag you to death, when the doctor tells that there is no use keeping the body, and when the children mourn over the body, is it possible to remember of God at that point’. How can you think of God at that point of time if you do not start now onwards? You will understand things clearly later in life if you develop a sense of adventure and courage at this tender age. 

Source: Study to Become Steady, Discourse 2, My Dear Students - Volume 4; Divine Discourse delivered at Trayee Brindavan on June 2, 1999

"I have given you a seat in the Institute..." - By Dr. K. Anil Kumar

Dr. Anil Kumar with Sri Sathya Sai at the Prasanthi Nilayam Campus

“Yato Vacho Nivartante

Aprapya Manasa Saha.”

(Neither the words nor the mind

Can fathom and describe Him.)

His actions, His words and ways are unfathomable, yet subtly sweet. Every act of His is filled and suffused with delightful sweetness and love. There is nothing this whole universe can offer Him - still, tirelessly He works, motivates, cajoles, enthuses and responds. He is also described as ‘Kala Swaroopa’. Verily so, this is not to say that He will annihilate everything and He will transmute everyone, every creature, everything into Himself, slowly, gradually and with certainty at the proper ‘right’ time. He responds to a prayer, a call, and a yearning heart in the most appropriate manner at the ‘right, ripe moment’. This aspect of Bhagavan has always fascinated me. If we read the experiences of the devotees, or stories of any of the saints, we find this same aspect - response in the most endearing way, a response, which gives never ending joy and grows in the ‘Madhuryam’ with each recollection. This is the reason that the stories of the saints and their experiences with the all-loving almighty God, The Bhagawatam, are ever fresh and lasting till the end of time. 

Be it the way Lord Rama responded to Sabari or to the little squirrel or be it Lord Krishna’s response to the Gopikas, the Rishipatnis or to Kuchela, or that of Lord Sainath’s (of Shirdi) response to Nanasaheb’s daughter or to Hemadpant’s prayer, or be it Lord Sathya Sai’s response to His innumerable devotees, we find the same ‘Madhuryam’ and the uncanny knack of choosing the ‘right ripe moment’ to show His ever-existing love and lead us along. 

Anil Kumar and fellow students with Sri Sathya Sai in Brindavan (kneeling in first row - extreme right) 

It was the month of April 1984. Preparations were on for the grand inauguration of the ‘Trayee Brindavan’ at Whitefield, Bangalore. I had finished my under-graduate course at Bangalore that year and I had to write the entrance exam of our University for admission into the post-graduate course. I had the option of taking Maths, Physics or Chemistry PG. course. I was fervently praying to Bhagavan to guide me. Bhagavan, in His inimitable playful way, used to make fun, punning with the words M.Sc. (Mrs), rather than condescend to guide. He used to ask everyday whether I had sent the application form. It went on. I did not want to send the application form without Bhagavan’s consent, and moreover I did not know which stream to choose. The penultimate day for sending the application form came. I was desperate. I was praying intensely. Bhagavan came that morning during the work (at Trayee) and enquired about the subject. I asked Bhagavan to guide me. He again made fun of me and walked away. I did not send the form, hoping Bhagavan would definitely tell me the next day. That night, Bhagavan appeared in my dream and asked me to take Chemistry as the first preference. I was thrilled with this experience.

The following morning Darshan time Bhagavan passed by me, but did not say anything. A little doubt was still lingering in my mind whether to go by the dream. I had no option, but to send the application as per Bhagavan’s instructions in the dream. I was not at peace with myself. There was this lurking doubt. I wanted a physical indication. After a few days, one evening Bhagavan had been to the city (Bangalore). Late in the evening Bhagavan returned. The car stopped in front of Trayee, and as Bhagavan was stepping down, He looked at me (by that time almost dejected) most kindly, came up to me and said “I have given you a seat in M.Sc. (Chemistry), I have ‘Myself’ written your name, ask the Registrar.” I was at a loss for words. I am grateful for His kindness in showing me the way and also ensuring me a berth to go along the way.

Swami interacting with Anil Kumar (bottom right of the photo) in Trayee Brindavan lawns

Not only does Bhagavan give the ‘Aihika’ the happiness, He also ensures side by side, our progress in the ‘Amushmika’. In fact, Bhagavan’s response and guidance to our Sadhana, is more forthcoming and is all the more filled with Madhuryam. During the earlier days, when the Sai Kulwant Hall was not built and the Mandir was surrounded by sands and trees, Bhagavan used to come to the Ganesha idol, in front of the Mandir, very often. He used to stand there with His hands held back, cupped in each other and majestically sway to the tunes of the Bhajans, with the golden yellow hue due to the sunset, mild breeze, the birds chirruping on the neem trees, melodious Bhajans and Bhagavan at the centre, standing majestically. Ah! It was a sight for the Gods! It used to capture my heart and I used to try endlessly to recreate it in my mind’s eye. One of those days, Bhagavan had told during His casual veranda talk that Bhajans have to be sung with all the feeling and the meaning of every word uttered should be enjoyed. I decided to sincerely follow this direction. Those days, during vacations, we used to sit at considerable distance from each other as there was sufficient space and also so that we might be individually able to attract Bhagavan’s attention, which is the most coveted opportunity. During one of the morning Bhajans, I was sitting in one corner of the veranda, with my eyes shut, sincerely trying to practice what He has told. Fortunately I could visualise Bhagavan in my favourite pose (as described). Suddenly I felt a hush and I opened my eyes to see Bhagavan right in front of me - exactly in the same pose and swaying to and fro. I was thrilled, Bhagavan smiled and said, “Sit straight, inside Bhagavan and outside Bhagavan are one and the same.” Each time I recollect this experience, immense joy fills me; to know that the all-loving almighty God is with us, guiding us and guarding us, loving us and teaching us. 

Dr. K. Anil Kumar (extreme left) serving food to Swami at the Sri Sathya Sai Hostel, Prasanthi Nilayam

Bhagavan’s ways are inscrutable, but full of that tender love. His apparent distance for a period of time is also a part of the whole experience of joy and sweetness. What can we offer Bhagavan? As Bhagavan Himself has said - “Ye Hrudayamu Nichitivo Sayeesha Naku Mari Danine Arpintu Mahida Moorti.” - “The Hrudayam (heart) that You have bestowed on Me, Sayeesha - I offer the same to You.” 

- Dr. K. Anil Kumar

Formerly Faculty Member, Department of Chemistry

Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning

Prasanthi Nilayam Campus

Currently, Chief Technology Officer, Nagarjuna Fertilisers and Chemicals Ltd.
Hyderabad

Source: Sai Nandana (2000) 75th Birthday Offering

Introductory Conversations at the start of the New Academic Year - Part 2

June 19, 2002 (Wednesday) 

Swami had built a new home for the aged. In that context…

Swami in the Prasanthi Nilayam Mandir portico

Swami : (To Prof. Anil Kumar) What is the name of the Prime Minister?

Prof. A. K. : Vajpayee, Swami.

Swami : Yes Kalam and Vajpayee have written long letters. Kalam has written that he seeks Swami’s blessings. He says that Swami should give him the strength to discharge his duties as he is about to take up a very responsible post. Both Vajpayee and Kalam want to come for Swami’s Darshan. I told them that I will call them for the Convocation function. (Swami called a senior devotee by name) Ashwath Narayana!

(To Prof. Anil Kumar) They have constructed a Vriddhashramam (home for the aged). What is it called in English?

Prof. A. K. : Home for the aged, Swami.

Swami : Yes, they have completed the construction. (To the devotee) What is the name of the Ashram?

Devotee : Swami, we are planning to call it ‘Sarva Deva Samsthaanam’.

Swami : No. That name is not good. 

Devotee : The complex spans 60 acres. There are separate quarters for ladies and gents. Also many facilities have been provided like library, etc.

Prof. A. K. : Many old age homes have been constructed but few provide library, tennis court, etc. It has come up very fast too.

Swami : Yes, it is the best and has been constructed very fast. Such facilities are good for the health as well as the heart.

(To the Vice-Chancellor, Sri S.V. Giri) What was the name I was telling you?

V. C. : Swami, ‘Sri Sathya Sai Deenajanoddhaarana’.

Swami : Yes that is a very good name. It should be something like that.

Devotee : Swami, how about the name ‘Sri Sathya Sai Sarvajanoddharana’.

Swami : Yes, that is also a very good name. Is the home near the bus stand? If not, it will be difficult for the inmates to travel. It should be near the main road. (Looking at a student) How are you Sardarji?

Student : Fine, Swami.

Swami : What is your full name?

Student : Jaipreet Singh Bhandari, Swami.

Swami : When is your father coming? Ask him to come. There is no tension anymore with Pakistan. No war. (The student’s father was serving in the Indian Army.) (Swami took letters from a few boys.)

(To student) What are you doing?

Student : 1st year M.F.M., Swami.

Swami : (Swami asks another boy to give his letter. The boy limps to Swami.) 

What happened? Numbness?

Student : Yes, Swami.

Swami : Sit down. (To another student) How many boys in M.B.A.?

Student : 33, Swami.

Swami : How many in M.F.M.?

Student : 14, Swami.

Swami : How many in M.Tech.?

Student : 10, Swami.

Student : Swami, M.E.S.

Swami : What is that?

Prof. A. K. : Swami, he is telling the names of his subjects. Maths, Economics and Statistics. (Swami pats the boy’s cheek.)

Swami : (Looking at all the boys) Who cannot afford Hostel fees among you? (There was no response from the boys) Poor boys are feeling shy to tell. We should ask them privately. (Calls a student who was holding a collection of letters. Swami sees the first letter.) Who is Kailasam? (The boy comes. His name was Prakash Kailasam). Kailasam? (The boy was sitting a little away. Swami smiled and said softly) Kailasam must have gone to Vaikuntham!

Student : Yes, Swami. I am Kailasam.

Swami pats his cheek and walks back to the interview room. After sometime, Swami returns. The senior devotee shows Swami the plan.

Swami : What is the route to the Ashram? It seems to be going round. There seems to be no link.

Devotee : (Showing Swami) Swami, this is the route.

Swami : Sarvajanoddharana Samsthanam. Very good name.

Swami asks for letters from all the boys. All come and give their letters.

Swami : Where are you from?

Student : Swami, Bangalore.

Swami : (To another student) Where are you from?

Student : Bombay, Swami.

Swami : (To another student) Where are you from?

Student : Hyderabad, Swami.

Swami : Where is the Darjeeling boy? Since he passed out, he seems to be sitting elsewhere. (The boy came and Swami asked him to speak. After he finished speaking) When are you going?

Student : I don’t want to go, Swami.

Swami : Which subject did you study?

Student : M.B.A., Swami.

Swami : What were you doing before joining here?

Student : I was working, Swami.

Swami : Working? How much salary?

Student : Swami, Rs. 10,000.

Swami : Chhod Diya? (Did you leave?) How many years did you work?

Student : Three years, Swami.

Swami : (Looking at his ring) Marriage ring?

Student : No, Swami.

Swami : Baat Karo (Give a talk).

The student gave brief talk. Swami asks him to remove his ring which Swami had given earlier and showed it to everyone.

Swami : What colour?

Teacher : Green, Swami.

Swami : What is the meaning of green?

Students : Peace and prosperity. 

Swami then blew on the ring thrice and it changed into a diamond ring. Swami then gave it to the student.

Swami blowing on the ring to transform it

Swami : Good boy. Ask father to come. He should know that I have changed the ring. (Looking at the student who spoke earlier) What are you thinking? The President to be, Abdul Kalam is of the same height as you.

Prof. A. K. : Swami, he also gave a lecture in our Institute Auditorium. 

(Dr. Kalam had visited Swami’s Institute in the previous year and had interacted with the students. He had also visited the Physics Labs and interacted with the faculty and researchers about the ongoing projects.)

Swami : What is his full name?

Prof. A. K. : A. P. J. Abdul Kalam.

Swami : (After a few moments) Boys sing a song.

All the students sang the song ‘We Love You Sai...’ Swami got up after the song, blessed the birthday boys, and went inside the interview room.

Source: Students with Sai: Conversations (2001-2004)