Sri Sathya Sai On: Lessons from the Life of Shri Rama – Part 1

The foremost lesson to be learnt from the Rama-story is how to foster unity and harmony in a family. When each family is united, the village enjoys unity. When the villages are united, the nation basks in prosperity. The reign of Rama was marked by concern for justice and morality. 

The Ramayana is a work which holds out ideals for every home and every family. What should be the relations between a father and a son, how should a husband and wife conduct themselves, how should brothers behave towards each other, what should be the relations between the rulers and the citizens, how should sisters-in-law conduct themselves, all these are exemplified in the story of the Rama-Avatar. 

- “Ideals of the Rama Avatar”, Sathya Sai Speaks, Volume 24,

March 24, 1991, Prasanthi Nilayam 

Although by Sadhana, one can get the grace of Lord Rama, yet, if one does not understand and recognise the human qualities in Him, one cannot comprehend the Divinity in Him either. It is very necessary, at the present time, to look upon Rama as an ideal human being who is an example for all people rather than simply believe Him to be an incarnation of God. When we cannot understand Rama as an ideal example of a human being, how are we going to understand Him as God? 

In every family, the kind of relationship that should exist between mother and son, between husband and wife, between brother and brother, has been amply demonstrated by Ramachandra during His life. The entire story of Rama is such that all of it can be related to the daily experience in the life of all individuals. 

- “Opening Address”, Summer Showers in Brindavan 1977

There is a significant connection between the Rama principle and the Vasanta Ritu (season of spring). In the spring, the trees put forth new leaves and flowers and fill the world with gladness. When the sun’s rays fall on the fresh leaves, they acquire a golden hue. The whole world puts on a glorious new look in spring. The beginning of the New Year is celebrated in various regions by preparation of special edibles from a mixture of flowers and fruits of the neem and mango trees. In consuming these edibles, people are reminded that life is a mixture of pleasure and pain, profit and loss and both are to be treated with equal-mindedness. 

In the spring season, the air is redolent with the fragrance of the mango blossoms and the song of the kokila (cuckoo). There is joy in the air you breathe. The cuckoo calls are never as sweet as in the Vasanta (spring). The kokila’s song is sweet to the ears. If a crow sits on our roof, we wish to drive it away, but we welcome the kokila’s song. Why this difference? The crow seeks nothing from us. The kokila has not given us a crown. The difference lies in their voice. The crow’s cawing jars on the ears. The kokila’s song is music to the ears. When the speech is sweet, the speaker becomes endearing. Hence men should learn to speak sweetly and pleasingly. Sweet speech confers peace. It is the means to Self-realisation. It is in the heart of the man who is sweet-spoken that Sri Rama loves to dwell. 

- “The Name that Redeems”, Sathya Sai Speaks, Volume 22,

April 14, 1989, Kodaikanal

Rama Nama (name) will save you, if you have at least the Pitru Bhakti and Matru Bhakti (devotion to father and to mother) that Rama had. If not, Rama Nama is merely a movement of the lips. Meditate on the Rama Swarupa (Form of Rama) and the Rama Swabhava (the true nature of Rama), when you recite or write Rama Nama. That will give exercise to the mind and it will be made healthy and strong, in the spiritual sense. 

- “True Nature of Rama”, Sathya Sai Speaks, Volume 3,

April 1, 1963, Rajahmundry 

Rama’s face was spotless because His heart was pure and was filled with feelings of sacrifice. He never did anything for Himself. Whatever He did was only for Lokasamrakshana (the welfare of the world). ‘Ramo Vigrahavaan Dharma’ (Rama was the embodiment of Dharma). If one follows Dharma, he is protected by the same Dharma. Rama sacrificed all His comforts and enjoyments of royal life and endured the privations of forest life. He is to be taken as the ideal for the students. They should respect and obey their parents’ words. The Guru, teacher, comes only after the parents. 

- “See the One in the Many”, Sathya Sai Speaks, Volume 27,

May 13, 1994, Brindavan

Rama is the supreme exemplar of how people should conduct themselves in the world, how a country should be governed, how the integrity and morality of human beings should be protected. High-minded actions, ideal qualities and sacred thoughts are basic foundations of character. Rama is the very embodiment of these three attributes. This means that every human being should cultivate sacred thoughts, right actions and good qualities. Rama demonstrated by His words, thoughts and actions how such a life can be lived. Rama acted upto the ancient injunction: “Speak the truth, Practise righteousness”. Eschewing harsh words, Rama pleased everyone by His sweet speech. He countered harsh speech by others with His composure, patience, sweetness and smile. 

- “Install Rama Rajya in Your Hearts”, Sathya Sai Speaks, Volume 28, April 9, 1995, Brindavan 

Very often the mistake is committed, of forgetting that Rama came, in order to lay down the norms of life and that His life has to be observed and followed by mankind. He is the ideal man, with qualities and virtues which every man can earn to elevate himself. Rama underwent trouble, disappointment and distress like any man, in order to show that joy was but an interval between two griefs, that grief was but a challenge, a rest, a lesson. 

- “The Four Brothers”, Sathya Sai Speaks, Volume 14,

March 25, 1980, Brindavan 

Rama never pried into affairs of others, never took notice of their faults, never indulged in ridicule, and never caused any pain to others by the way He spoke to them. It is essential for everyone to follow the example set by Rama and cultivate His many noble qualities and do righteous actions. People should entertain sacred thoughts. 

- “Install Rama Rajya in Your Hearts”, Sathya Sai Speaks, Volume 28, April 9, 1995, Brindavan 

To ignore the deities who are directly visible, in the form of one’s parents, it is delusion to search for an invisible God. Rama exemplified this truth when He told king Janaka that without the consent of His parents He would not consent to wed Sita, although He had won her hand by lifting Shiva’s bow. Similarly; when Bharata and Vashishtha came to the forest to appeal to Rama to return to Ayodhya to rule over the kingdom, Rama firmly declared that He had to fulfill the pledge given by His father to Kaikeyi and complete His term of exile in the forest. Honouring the words of the parents is the highest virtue. This has to be observed by one and all. 

- “Love and Sacrifice will save Mankind”, Sathya Sai Speaks, Volume 28, November 23, 1995, Prasanthi Nilayam 

By showing equal affection to all people, Rama used to attract all the people. In His childhood, Rama spoke very little. He was conducting Himself in that manner in order to show the world the ideal that is contained in limited speech. Limited talking will always promote the Divine strength in one and will also promote his memory. It creates respect for him in the community. If one talks too much, it will, to an extent, destroy one’s memory. Not only this, if one talks too much, the strength in the nerves will diminish and the person will become somewhat feeble. It is in this context that all great saints were observing the path of silence, whenever possible. By observing silence, one can get strength. Because the youth of today talk too much, it so happens that their memory becomes weak; and when they go to the examination hall, they forget what they have read. Amongst the many ideals which Rama has given to the young people, the first one is to talk less. The second one is that when you meet elders, to show them respect. The third one is to happily obey the orders of one’s parents. 

- “God is beyond Description through Words”,

Summer Showers in Brindavan 1977, Brindavan 

Continued in Part 2…

Source: Sai Vani: Avatar on Avatar Purushas, Chapter 4, Rama

Faith and Love – By R.K.V. Nataraj

In April 2002, we were nearing the formal conclusion of our MBA programme. Come June 2002 and we would formally join the ex-students group. We were at Brindavan. With lots of dreams and aspirations about the corporate world, I was waiting for Swami’s approval and direction. I thought I would give a letter to Swami and seek His guidance. I was in a dilemma whether to pray to Swami for a job or join my other brothers who were waiting for an opportunity to stay with Him. With courage in my mind and with the feeling that I was His child and thus have every right to ask what I wanted, I wrote the letter. 

Along with a prayer for a good and respectable job, a strange request was also there in my mind. Whatever the job I would end up in, it should be such that whenever I wished to see Swami, leave for the same should be permitted. I wrote this in the form of a letter and waited to hand it over to Him. However small the desire may be, Swami – the Divine Mother responds to Her child with infinite love and affection. May be these are the ways Swami makes us realise that whether we find ourselves in pain or pleasure, failure or success, He is always there for us. 

Sri Sathya Sai in Trayee Brindavan

To my surprise I found myself in the first row and somehow managed to get a place next to the Jhoola in Trayee Building. After the inspiring talks by the elders and Swami’s enlightening Discourse, I thought that Swami was in a different framework, and felt very guilty for writing a letter for such a petty thing.  

For Swami, the Divine Mother, even a little wish of Her child gains supreme importance. While Swami began walking into the inner room, I knelt down and hesitatingly showed the letter. Though Swami was looking ahead; while crossing me, He turned towards me and giving a loving smile, He accepted the letter. I was dumbstruck by the importance that Swami gave me and my letter with a petty prayer. However, it was a reassurance that once you have faith in Him, there is no VIP greater to Him than you. 

I came back to my hometown and started applying for jobs. I got an offer from a company at Chennai. The job was related to my project but the salary was very less when compared to what my classmates were earning elsewhere. I was wondering why Swami had offered me that job. But then instantaneously the message of Swami came to my mind, ‘Whatever be the job, don’t just see the salary, but consider whether you are worthy enough for getting that salary’. 

Having that in my mind I proceeded for the job. To my surprise whenever I thought about this teaching, I happened to see Swami’s photo either on some vehicle or in some shop. I took this as a reassurance from Swami and continued working and came to Parthi for the Convocation. Since I had asked Swami about a job that would permit me to visit Parthi whenever I wanted; I felt this was the right job He had given me. 

I kept applying for other jobs too. Three months after the convocation, I got an offer from the company where I am currently working. It fetched me twice the salary I was getting in my previous company. Now I realise why Swami had made me secure the previous job. It was just to fulfil my desire of attending the Convocation. The present job is at Jamshedpur and it takes around 38 hours of travel to reach Parthi. How subtly Swami fulfils our desires. The sentiments echoed here may appear simple but the impact it has had on me is very significant. 

After coming to Jamshedpur, I felt very lonely and had a feeling that I was all alone in this entire world. Whenever any kind of doubt or depression troubles one’s mind, surely, a prompt message from Swami begins flashing from within. This is a unique medicine which Swami has provided to all the students. May be we don’t realise this while we are staying at Parthi. 

It was in my first year of the MBA programme. Swami had come to our Hostel and I was given an opportunity to present a Tamil poem in front of Swami in the Kavi Sammelan. Swami smilingly acknowledged my poem wherein I had mentioned that He is my Mother, Father, Friend and Guide. In His discourse too Swami reassured us that “The relation between you and Swami is unique, and wherever you go and whatever job you do, have the feeling that Swami is always in you, with you and around you. Meeku maaku okey bandhamu…” 

In spite of getting this message, my monkey mind began wondering how Swami could be with me always. In Jamshedpur, I could not even see a photo of Swami, leave alone attending Bhajans in the Samithi. This went on for a month. I was cursing myself for asking for a good job, for it had distanced me from my Swami. One Thursday, as I was walking on the street in the evening, something struck me and suddenly I turned towards a house… Oh my!!! I saw a photo of Swami sporting a cute smile. I could not believe my eyes. 

Immediately I went and knocked at the door without even the minimum caution that a stranger should exercise. A middle aged man opened the door and asked me what I wanted. Without even waiting for the next question, I began a one way introductory outpour. Introducing myself as a student of SSSIHL, I enquired the location of the Jamshedpur Sai Samithi. After listening to me he asked me to sit down and offered coffee and gave me the address of the Jamshedpur Samithi. When I looked up, there was Swami, smiling in the photo, making ‘fun’ of my wavering, unsteady mind. 

I began attending Bhajans on Thursdays. Now, the next problem to be resolved was the question of seeing Swami whenever I wanted to. Was that really possible? I have 24 days annual leave, 7 days casual leave. But traveling back and forth from Parthi would itself consume 4 days. So at the best I could come twice a year to Parthi and that too not according to my choice of timing. Here again Swami – the Divine Mother showered Her love and reassured me that Her Will prevails ultimately. After a few days I got transferred to a new plant which was under construction and commissioning. Now I had to work without any time limit. Day and night became immaterial for me, as I worked to get the plant operational within the deadline. There was no question of getting any leave. 

After 2 months the plant became operational. For the days we had worked overtime we were now gifted a compensatory leave hamper of 20 days. What a wonderful gift! Now I had 20 extra days at my disposal. I used this to my full advantage and visited Parthi in 2004 almost four times. This is how Swami satisfies our desires, however small they may be. This is the infinite Love we receive from our Divine Mother. 

When Swami gives His word, He keeps it whatever be the circumstances. These incidents reiterated to me the fact that the relationship between Swami and His children is unique. Again the same message comes into my mind, “The relation between you and Swami is unique, and wherever you go and whatever job you do, have the feeling that Swami is always in you, with you and around you. Meeku Maaku Okey Bandhamu… Adeeye Prema Bandhamu….”

- R.K.V. Nataraj

Student (2000-2002), Department of Management Studies

Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning

Prasanthi Nilayam Campus

Currently, General Manager, Linde India Limited

Mumbai

Source: Fragrance (2005)

Light-hearted Conversations with Sri Sathya Sai…

Thursday, March 8, 2001 

On the occasion of the Board Meeting of Sri Sathya Sai Mirpuri College of Music, a devotional music programme was offered to Bhagavan by the renowned Hindustani music maestro, Padma Vibhushan Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, the Mridangam maestro Professor Yella Venkateswara Rao and Carnatic classical musician, Dr. Nookala Chinna Sathyanarayana, in Sai Kulwant Hall at 4.30 pm. After the eveing interview, Swami came to the Ganesh portico. The stage was set ready with microphones for this evening’s music concert. Seeing the stage ready… 

Swami : (Joking to Prof Anil Kumar) Are these mics, for you to sing? (Swami said that the musicians were appreciating our Music College and that they would like to teach there. Swami saw that a carpet was spread, with a speaker and a fan kept on it.) Is this a loudspeaker? Is this place kept for Me to sit? I am not sitting there! (To Prof. Anil Kumar) You go and sit there. (Swami told him to get ready for announcing the evening’s programme. He had already written down the announcement. He went near Swami and read out the announcement in a low tone. About the Mrindangam artist) Once, he had played the Mrindangam for 38 hours continuously without a break. 

Prof. A. K. : Swami, is Bhimsen Joshi going to sing first? 

Swami : (Joking) No, Anil Kumar is going to sing first! If you sing, all will go away. 

Prof. A. K. : (Smiling) So, I will sing at the end, Swami. 

Swami said that the regular maintenance of the drinking water supply project undertaken by the Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust, which is now handed over to the Government, is not being looked after properly. Then, Swami directed Prof. Anil Kumar to go to first block for some purpose. Swami observed that he went in with his back stooped. 

Swami : (To a Teacher) How old is he now? Is he retired? 

Teacher : Swami, 58 years. He has retired. 

Swami : He is bending his back. One should be straight. My back is not bent. Is it like that? 

Teacher : No, Swami. 

Swami : Boys too sit with their back bent. (Since it was sultry, Swami directed the shutter on the top of the Sai Kulwant Hall to be opened to let in fresh air. Observing that, Swami jokingly told Prof. Anil Kumar) Physics problem. You Bioscience, go (to solve it). It has got stuck. 

Prof. A. K. : (Mentioning a teacher’s name) Swami, his car is also like that. He parks it in front of my house. I hear the engine sound, but it does not start. 

(Swami laughed.) 

Swami : Is it a second hand car? (Then with a smile) Kasturi (the late biographer of Swami) used to have a car. He bought it for a cheap price of Rs.5,000. While going to the office, one had to push it from home till office. On the way back, one had to push it from office till home. (Everyone laughed.The shutter above was opened.) For music programme, it should be closed. (The opened shutter let the sunlight in, which fell on the students sitting on the third block. Seeing them) Sunlight is falling on the boys, close it. (Swami sent word for it to be closed. By then, the Primary School students started assembling.) Ah! Primary School has come. (Swami was waiting for the Primary School children to come. They were coming in a proper order. Appreciating their discipline) They always come in line. 

At 4.30 pm, there were three programmes by the aforementioned artists. Swami felicitated them by putting silk Angavastram on their shoulders. They also took photographs with Swami. After Aarti, Swami retired to the Poornachandra residence. 

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

The Business School at Sri Sathya Sai University – Part 3

… Continued from Part 2 

Philosophical Background of The Education System at Sri Sathya Sai Institute Of Higher Learning 

Institute Vision, Mission and Philosophy 

 

The holistic approach to education that SSSIHL imparts is based completely on the life, teachings and direct precepts of its Revered Founder Chancellor, Sri Sathya Sai Baba. 

The Vision 

To assist generations of students acquire Self-knowledge (Atma Vidya) and Self-confidence (Atma Vishwas), so as to cultivate Self-sacrifice and earn Self-realisation; thereby moulding them into leaders who will benefit society. 

The Mission 

To mould well-rounded holistic individuals – professionally sound, socially responsible and spiritually aware – who embody noble values and a right attitude, through Educare (Integral Education based on Human Values) that caters to the physical, intellectual, emotional, psychological and spiritual dimensions of the human personality. 

The Underlying Philosophy 

On the occasion of the inauguration of the Institute, the Revered Founder Chancellor highlighted its uniqueness in the existing University education system. Emphasizing the differentiating factors, he said, 

“This University will not be imparting in Botany merely the knowledge of trees in nature; it will spread the knowledge of the tree of true living. It will not be imparting the knowledge merely of Economics; the knowledge of theistic ethics too will be included. It will not be teaching mere Chemistry; it will also unravel the mystery of Raso Vai Saha - the Supreme Embodiment of nectarine sweetness - the Atma. It will teach not only the science of the material world (Padartha); it will also teach the science of the non-material world (Paraartha). It will not differentiate the material from the nonmaterial or treat the non-material as irrelevant to the material. We have decided that this shall be the uniqueness of this University. This will not be like all other universities, which adopt a few faculties and burden their alumni with degrees, which they can present as begging bowls while clamouring for jobs. This University will confer on its alumni the courage and confidence, the knowledge and skill to shape their careers by their own efforts, relying on their strength. So we have proposed that spiritual education be integrated harmoniously with ethical, physical, and metaphysical teachings in this University.” 

Sri Sathya Sai - Revered Founder Chancellor

This eventually went on to become the core philosophy of the University. Elaborating the purpose and philosophy of the University, the Revered Founder Chancellor says, 

“This Institute has not been established just to prepare you for earning degrees…Teaching you the University curricula, preparing you for the university examinations, and awarding you university degrees – these are only means employed for the end, namely – spiritual uplift, Self-discovery and social service through love and detachment. Our objective is to provide the youth with an education, which while cultivating their intelligence, will also purify their impulses and emotions, and equip them with the physical and mental disciplines needed for drawing upon the springs of calmness and joy that lie within their own hearts. Our hope is that by their lives, they will be shining examples of spiritual awareness and its beneficial consequences to the individual and society.” 

Distinctive Features of the Institute

Integral Education 

• Lessons learnt through the inspiration and message of the Revered Founder Chancellor – Sri Sathya Sai Baba 
• Integrating values with secular knowledge through curriculum and classroom teaching 
• Integral education with equal emphasis on curricular and co-curricular activities
• Inculcating the spirit of self-reliance and service to society 
• Fuller utilisation of national holidays and important festivals for educational purposes and extension work
• Synthesis of science and spirituality for societal benefit

Admissions 

• Free education for all students 
• Merit based open admission policy for all irrespective of income, religion or region

Residential Character 

• Compulsory residential character enabling translation of lessons learnt into practical skills through experiential learning
• Spiritual ambience in an environment of discipline
• Teaching faculty and research scholars residing in the hostel
• Cultivation of the spirit of self-reliance, brotherhood and sacrifice through mentoring and personal example

Academics 

• Curriculum rooted in Indian culture and Universal brotherhood
• Awareness programmes and Moral Classes reinforcing Human Values
• Integrated five year programmes combining Undergraduate and Postgraduate studies for a systematic and graduated learning process
• Professional programmes in Management, Technology and Education
• Research with social relevance
• Favourable teacher-pupil ratio

Continued in Part 4…

Source: Role of Values-Based Management in Management Education: Insights from the Business School at Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, Chapter 24, Man Management: A Values-Based Management Perspective

Lessons from the Story of the Three Rajus

Sathya Sai Speaks

There were three Rajus: Thyagaraju, Potharaju and Goparaju. 

Goparaju was also known as Ramadasu. You see for yourself how much devotion he cultivated. Whatever he obtained, he gave to God and said, “There lies my happiness.” History tells us that, when there was no shelter for Sri Rama, he made one for Him and gave away his money. 

Potharaju, who is also known as Pothana, is a jewel in the galaxy of the literary world. His brother-in-law came one day and asked him, “If you dedicate the great work of yours to the king, you will be very happy with the wealth he presents you.” Then Pothana said, “Oh! Srinatha, my only master is Sri Rama. I will give all my works only to my Master, and not to the king. I will enjoy whatever God gives me and not that which is presented by a man.” He said, “I will give my all, only to God.” Before composing the Bhagavatam, he said, “It is Sri Rama who writes, I am only an instrument.” He sanctified his life by sacrificing everything to God. 

Thyagaraju (1767-1847)

Thyagaraju believed that Rama was everything to him. “Without You, I would not live my life. My life is nothing without You. Where shall I find You? Oh Rama!” He said, “I will not live even a moment without You.” He lived his life with these feelings. The king of Thanjavoor sent exquisite and expensive ornaments and jewels in palanquins to him. Thyagaraju asked, “Oh mind, tell me which is more joyous – wealth or proximity of the Lord? When kings themselves are temporary, are these things permanent?” Since they can make all kinds of sacrifices, they were called Rajus (kings). The one who can make all kinds of renunciation, he only can be called a king. People think,“A king is one who has wealth and money”. Actually, people who sought renunciation are called kings. When you go to Rishikesh and Haridwar they address you as Maharaj (king). Sanyasis are Maharajas. Who is an emperor? The Lord, who is the emperor of emperors, is the real emperor. Yielding to these temporary desires, we are wasting our lives. We burden ourselves day by day. The quest for truth is the essence of knowledge. That is the goal and destination of knowledge. You have to realise yourself. Then only will you become Divine. You are the embodiment of truth. 

Students! You have to behave sincerely. If you do not behave like that, it is an insult to all of you and to humanity itself. Humility is the hallmark of education. Truth and character bring safety. Devotion is the very life. It is no use learning, without cultivating these three. Learning and learning, you are becoming foolish. What is the use of higher learning, without cultivating good character? One may be steeped in logic, but one does not obtain wisdom. What is the use of dying for education? You have to learn that, which is immortal and the eternal truth. You have to acquire that education which liberates you.

Be God-centred

Students! You know very well, more than the educated people, villagers have morality and integrity. More than the people of urban areas, the tribal people have better integrity and morality. Where there are educational institutions, courts and universities, there are seeds of immorality and dishonesty. There is more kindness and compassion, morality and goodness, in villagers than in educated people. More harm is done by the educated than by the uneducated. Today education has come down to such a low level. We have to mould ourselves into students, who will set a good example to the world. You must identify your mistakes and see to it that you do not repeat them. First, we have to respect others, and then only we can receive respect from others. Praying to God, we have to obtain His love. The one who owns that love for God is the true man. Man without love can no more be called a man. He is only man in form, but not in reality. By compassion, one should fill his life. Compassion is sheer wealth. We can fulfill our lives only by having compassion of God. By putting Vibhuti, Kumkum, by growing beard, by doing Japam, we would not get compassion. It is possible to get compassion only by concentrating on God.

Surrender Only To God 

Students! You must securely plant two things in your heart. As long as the blood is pure and flows clearly, our bodies will be healthy. Similarly, as long as the rain of devotion is present in us, we will be happy, and God won’t be far away from us. Let the good blood flow in your body. Install devotion in your heart. The purity of the body and the purity of the heart will be acquired at that time. You have to achieve this. That is true education. 

After attaining these virtues, you can do Bhajans and other good deeds. In our University, you have to demonstrate the highest excellence. There are crores of students elsewhere. I do not want such comparison between you and others. We have to compare ourselves with only ourselves. Take an illustration. We sow a seed, put soil, and add fertilizers. We water it, and we see to it that wind blows and light falls on it, and then it will grow into a sapling. When it has to grow into a sapling, all the above mentioned processes are required. It secures these things and grows into a tree. The tree is not made up of soil, water; it is not wind or light. It receives all these things but it grows in its own way, as a tree. Similarly, we have to imbibe in ourselves those qualities of virtuous people. Wherever there is good, acquire it; but grow as yourself. That is true humanity. Accept the things, but do not change your nature. Unfortunately, people are not of this kind today. When you see a person wearing a bush coat, you also want to wear it. Thereby, you are becoming a slave. Imitation is bad. Receive goodness from wherever it comes. But, live as yourselves. Surrender yourself to God, but not to ordinary men. This is the excellence of education. 

Students! 

We should not imitate people from outside. Imitation degrades you. Creation is Divine. You should follow that. Like this, you should develop good habits; good character, cultivate good virtues and follow the true path. I hope and bless, that you will mould yourselves into excellent students. 

Source: Mould Yourself into Excellent Students, Discourse 1, My Dear Students, Volume 1

Sri Sathya Sai: The Guiding Force - By V. Vasudevan

I had the great good fortune of studying in Bhagawan’s Institutions from 1983 to 1990. I had the privilege of doing my schooling at the Higher Secondary School, BCom in Brindavan and MBA in Prasanthi Nilayam.

I had been to Puttaparthi in the month of July 1990 with my parents to seek Swami’s guidance about my future plans after MBA. I recollect that Swami told me to go over to Chennai, start applying for jobs and stay with my parents. He told me to remain confident, and remarked that He was always there with me. These are the words which still reverberate in my ears, and have helped me get along with my life. This, I feel, is the most emotional and classic farewell that the revered Chancellor could ever gift His students with. This has been my constant guiding factor. 

I served in a small company as an accounts officer for about 6 months. This was followed by a call for an interview from one of the Multinational Banks in Chennai. The head of the Credit Cards Division had interviewed me and the final question posed to me was about my adaptability to the environment in the bank. I countered it by mentioning that the education provided at Swami's Institutions prepared a student by providing integral education that included not just spiritual knowledge but also academics, sports and cultural activities. I also mentioned that the education imparted there not only catered to the academic needs of an individual, but also assisted in the all-round personality development. 

Personally, my experiences with Swami and adherence to His teachings have helped me immensely, to balance personal life and corporate life and also manage stress during difficult situations. In fact, I was the first Sai Student to join this Bank and subsequently a dozen followed suit. Perhaps, simplicity and dedication are the hallmark of Swami's Education System. 

Swami says Management is nothing but Man Management which clearly matches the definition given by Management experts – The art of getting things done by people. This encompasses the qualities of a manager namely – leadership, motivation, strategic thinking, innovation etc. This is very evident in real life because we need to work in teams wherein we get a chance to imbibe and learn these managerial qualities.  They enable us to serve the organisation better and in the process also helps in our personal development. A manager needs to act as a role model, which means, inculcating the values that are dear to Swami – Truth, Love and Sincerity. Keeping people involved in decision making, regardless of how ‘small’ their position might be, makes a lot of difference in the workplace. It harnesses co-operation and speeds up processes and activities. In my experience, it is very essential for a manager to sit down with the employees, understand all the nuances and have an eye for detail in any job. This will make a significant impact at the workplace. 

In one of the Personnel Management classes that Swami had conducted, I happened to be seated at the Lotus Feet since it was my birthday. Swami had materialised a Japanese soap and allowed it to be passed around, so that everybody could have a better look at it. Finally, Swami enquired as to who would like to have it. All my brothers responded saying that the birthday boy should be given the soap. Swami looked at me and said that He would grant me something much bigger than the petty soap. This experience is very special for me as I consider this life that He has given to me as the big boon mentioned by Bhagawan. Nothing can match the sweetness of the moments I have spent in Bhagawan’s Presence. 

With Swami’s Blessings, I recently got a good job in an Islamic Bank in an orthodox and conservative Islamic country. I was delighted to find a group of devotees who met regularly and I was happy to be a part of the Sai Satsang. Swami’s ‘Visiting Cards’ of Vibuthi manifestations on the portraits of the various deities, have blessed even this remote place. 

In July 2000, I lost my father and on the fifth day following his death, we had a major theft in our house in Chennai. We lost about 150 sovereigns of gold. One can imagine the impact of this double tragedy. Sleepless nights ensued and we kept our prayers going and had confidence that Bhagawan would take care of everything. We were continuously in touch with all the senior police officials in Chennai so that the case remained alive and was not closed as non traceable. 

On March 18, 2005, we had a Laksharchanam at our house and on the same night, a robber in one of the police stations in Chennai confessed that he had committed the crime. The next morning, at about 5.30 a.m., five cops landed at my house. They entered our house and enquired whether there had been any major robbery in the house. My mother was amazed and showed all the documentary evidence to them. We were informed that they have recovered all the lost jewels that would shortly be handed over to us. This is nothing but the reflection of Swami's Love and Blessings.  

Swami is the greatest Manager and Leader and has been a guiding force to all of us. It is imperative that all the students observe Him and try to adhere to at least some of His teachings. This will make one’s life more meaningful and would help us evolve, both materially and spiritually. 

True management starts with self-knowledge and managing oneself. All the other worldly knowledge comes later. This has been my guiding principle and I am deeply indebted to Bhagawan for this ultimate secret of success and happiness. 

I recommend to all my fellow alumni to keep this important teaching of Swami in their hearts while pursuing their careers and leave the rest to Him. 

- V. Vasudevan

Student (1988-1990), Department of Management Studies

Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning

Prasanthi Nilayam Campus

Currently, Executive Vice President (Retail Operations), HDFC Bank Ltd., Chennai

Source: Fragrance (2005)

“Adi Shankaracharya composed only two verses in the Bhaja Govindam…”

Monday, March 12, 2001 

Evening 

Swami : Many doctors from the Manipal Hospital have come. What to do? Very busy. It’s very hot. Who spoke yesterday? 

Prof. A. K. : Swami, no one spoke. 

Swami : (Jokingly) Eating chapatis you are forgetting everything. 

Then Swami called a Greek lady doctor from the ladies’ side and asked her to speak. She spoke about how Swami’s Organisation had done much more service than any other organisation during the Gujarat earthquake rehabilitation. Then she shared about their work in Africa. In the end she sang the song ‘Humko Tumse Pyaar Kitna…’ 

Swami : See how nicely she sang the song. Very dedicated. In Gujarat, she encouraged the people to be happy and told them that it was a test of God and only when God tests us, do we rise a step higher in spirituality. Test is the taste of God. When she was in Greece, she was like a queen. 

But after she came to Swami, see how happy she is by serving you all. Learn and be happy. Never be sad. They stayed there for one month. In Africa, in Tanzania, they are doing a lot of work. Both husband and wife have built a Primary School and High School for the poor children there. They sold all their property and gave away all their clothes. You can see, she is wearing an old sari. In Gujarat, they built a tent for themselves and cooked in it, but did not go to hotels. (Swami sent word for her husband. When he came, Swami talked to him and sent him back.) 

Sri Bhagia : Swami, very dedicated people. 

Swami : Yes, very dedicated. 

Prof. A. K. : Swami, for how many years have they been coming to Swami? 

Swami : For the past ten years. From that time, they are doing great service. Her husband is a very good man. Great doctor. He talks less. 

(After a pause) Some people are coming from Africa. There is a school with 300 students and another school with 200 students. In Tanzania, they give food, education, everything free. (After a pause) When I give a promise, I never change. But our people give promise in the morning and by evening, they miss it. But these (Greek) people are very sincere. They are going back from here. They have a very good name. The husband is a heart practitioner. Boys, who will speak? (Then Swami asked a few students to speak.) This boy’s mother had throat cancer. When he joined here in our Institute, he called his parents here and I cured her. 

After him, another student spoke in English. He concluded his speech with a beautiful Telugu poem. Swami liked it very much and materialised a three-diamond ring for him. After him, another student came to give a speech in Sanskrit. 

Swami : He is studying Sanskrit so much that his hair is falling off!  

(To the student) When you make Sanskrit speech, don't use the Shloka of Shankaracharya (‘Balavastaat Kreeda Sakta…’). It may be misunderstood. 

Sri Adi Shankaracharya with his disciples

Warden : Swami, this boy is studying from 1st standard in Ooty School. 

Swami : I know, but you should not use that stanza again in public speeches. Actually Shankaracharya composed only the first and last Shlokas in the Bhaja Govindam. His 13 disciples composed the other 26 Shlokas on the Ganges, youth, etc. Each of them composed two stanzas. Similarly in Gita, it is the same. Krishna composed only five Shlokas. Vyasa wrote the other Shlokas. These are known as “Krishna Vachanam”. When Dhritarashtra asks Sanjaya, “What are my sons and the Pandavas doing?” Sanjaya replied, “Krishna has come for Dharma Rakshana (protection of righteousness). Since Krishna is on their side, victory is theirs.” Krishna gave three promises: Sambhavami Yuge Yuge (I shall incarnate from age to age); Yogakshemam Vahamyaham (I shall take care of the wellbeing and welfare of My devotees); Mokshaishyami Ma Shucha (I shall deliver you from all sinful reaction). (After this Swami went back to talk about that lady who spoke.) Very great, going to Tanzania and doing so much work. 

Prof. A. K. : Yes, Swami. When she sang ‘Neeku Maaku Oke Bandhamu’ (You and I have have only one bond), she stressed on that word ‘Bandhamu’ (bond), Swami. 

Swami : (To an Institute student) How did she sing? 

Student : Very nicely, Swami. 

Swami : (To Prof. Anil Kumar) How was the song? 

Prof. A. K. : Swami, song was very good. She sang in Telugu. 

Swami : She sang the song ‘Neevu Leni Ma Jeevanam…’ (the life without You…). 

She stressed on the word ‘Prema Bandham’. Our people don't sing so emphatically. Many people like her are there in many countries. They are very devoted to Swami. (About the importance of Shiksha Valli – a set of verses from the Taittiriya Upanishad) After education, the Guru passes on this Mantram to the Shishya (disciple). The disciple treasures it and maintains lot of respect for it. It is almost like Gita Upadesham (message of the Gita given by Krishna to Arjuna) for them. 

Warden : Swami, boys also learn the Mantram. 

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