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News from Brindavan - April 2004
Loving contributed by Brother
Raja through
saibabanews
April 30, 2004 - Sai Lord is
improving at a very fast rate
Jai sairam.
Dear brothers and sisters,
My ISP was out for 2 days and so I could not file any report
whatsoever.
My ISP is shortly to be taken over by VSNL and so I am helpless.
The first happy news is that nowadays Swami is beginning to walk
without
support. Though He limps, He tries to walk as much as He can
without
holding on to anyone. This is fantastic.
Secondly He walks nowadays faster.
Thirdly in the last one week, He made full round of Ramesh Hall 3
times,
walking by Himself and taking the additional strain. This is
excellent
news, because it is almost 9 months, since Swami walked the Ramesh
Hall in
full circle.
Darshans are going on as usual, both in the mornings and as well
as
evenings. The extended Ramesh Hall has now made it possible for
Swami to
keep others guessing, as to which way He would turn when He walks
amongst
the Devotees.
He is making devotees happy even those who are sitting in the
extended
areas, because they have been benefitted without a token system,
much to
their surprise. Many of them have been able to give their letters
to
Swami, because Swami went to them. This has not happened in years.
Now it
does not matter, whether you came thruogh token or not. If Lord's
grace is
with you, well He will be there - next to you, in Darshan.
Bhajans as usual are being sung in the afternoon, and as I said
earlier,
the quality of Bhajans is excellent. This time what I notice is
the
distinct manner in which the devotees take part in bhajans whole
heartedly.
There is sweetness flowing all over in the Bhajans, this season.
Now Vedas tutor is available at the book shop. I saw the new CD on
sale.
It is available along with Veda Pushpanjali Book. With this CD you
can
practice Vedic chants. The price is negligible ! Just Rs.49.
International devotees may wish to place their order for this CD
in bulk
through their respective centers so that they can save on shipping
costs.
Also a new audio CD titled "SAIBABA" was noticed in the store.
This CD
which is in two volumes (CD 1 and CD 2) has all the poems composed
and
sung by Swami in His yester years with music set by an
international
devotee. It is very nice. I purchased this and the music is
excellent.
Price just Rs.100.
Latest DVD on Mahashivarathi - 2004 is now on Sale at the stores.
It costs
Rs.200. Many people think it is VCD, but it is not VCD. It is a
DVD.
I now have a resolve. To gift "My Love - My Message" CD-ROM to one
of my
family members. Each time, I need to gift something, I will
hereafter
think of gifting "My Life - My Message" CD-ROM. That way, I feel
that I
will spread Swami's message. Anyone approves this ? If everyone of
us who
are Swami's devotees, were to do this, we will really do wonderful
service
of spreading Swami's message of Service to Humanity. I am sure
most of us
can afford Rs.500 ( $12), once in a year atleast, because that is
the cost
of the CD-ROM.
Similarly I plan to gift out "Chinna Katha - Vol I and II" to
children on
their birthdays. Once again, I feel that we will spread the
message of
value based education in younger minds.
I hope all of you received "webfiles.zip" from the Sri Sathyasai
Books
center. This zip file consists of details about the Multimedia
CD-ROMs
brought out by the Books Center. Incase you have not received the
same,
please send an enquiry to
srisathyasaisociety@yahoo.co.in
asking for the same.
Well that is all in this update.
Loka Samastha Sukino Bhavanthu.
Jai sairam
Raja
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2283
April 27, 2004 - 20th Anniversary
of Trayee Brindavan Celebrated on 26-4-2004
Jai Sairam, Jai sairam, Jai
Sairam,
It has been a most extraordinary wonderful loving day here at
Brindavan on
26-4-2004 (today is 27-4-2004)
I have been mentioning about my ISP problems. Yesterday i returned
home
with thoughts of sending a wonderful message to the devotees
around the
world, on the celebration of the 20th Anniversary of Trayee
Brindavan,
Swami's residence at Brindavan, Whitefield, Bangalore.
But I am beginning to reconcile to the fact that my ISP is a poor
operator
and it is providence which did not want me to send the message
yesterday.
How excited I was to share the proceedings. Anyway, here I am, as
usual
one day late. Do forgive me. At my age, I am unable to walk into
cybercafes.
Only on arrival at Brindavan yesterday I did notice that the whole
place
has been colorfully and tastefully decorated. Love for Swami puts
ideas
into various Seva Dal, who outshine each other, in bringing out
the best
of their talents. Thus Ramesh Hall, and the center Stage in
particular,
was so beautifully decorated, and words fail me to describe it
adequately.
For a change, the stage background was changed into a floral green
with
white background, with Krishna's statue, who stands as a mute
witness to
the events that rock and roll the Brindavan on Swami's advent on
this
mother earth.
Is there a possibility that Krishna feels jealous looking at the
grandeur
of How Swami in this physical shape, is conducting the affairs on
this
earth ?
How can it be ? He is beyond such thoughts even. But then I always
reflect
upon this thought as what and above whom, Krishna would have
spoken in His
days ? Our living God speaks always about Rama and Krishna besides
the
Gods of all other Religion.
Anyway, the center stage was decorated with lovely and lively
bouquets
adorning the walls of the center stage and gopuram (mast like
structure).
Red, Rose, white and green was the color combination that the Seva
Dal had
used. Krishna was also wearing a green garland with white outer.
The
settings were just wonderful. On the entrance to Ramesh Hall, a
huge arch
in very bold letters said "20th Anniversary of Trayee Brindavan".
Swami came in around 8 am and as usual got through the ladies wing,
taking
letters and talking to many devotees. His assurances, His smile,
His love
and His compassion melts even the toughest characters sitting for
darshan.
One moment they are indisciplined if you observe them, and the
next, they
become so meek and submissive. How does such transaformation take
place
at a given moment ? Only Lord Sai knows the answers to all this.
Swami walked along the center aisle, taking letters and making
devotees
happy and happier, with the car discreetly following Him. At the
end of
Ramesh Hall, Swami elected to continue around the turn towards the
men
aisle side, and made me happy once again, because I was not
expecting such
a reward so soon.
Swami kept walking and finally at one point the car overtook Swami
and
stopped just a little short of me, and my heart beat like mad,
because the
Darshan was so close and yet so far (that was how, I assessed at
that
moment)
With the car door open I suddenly saw Swami shaking His Head and
saying
that He does not want the car and He continued to walk towards me.
Two
feet short of me, He stopped and gave me a long look, before
walking and
now coming to stand right next to me. I cannot quite discribe
those
wonderful moments but all of you can imagine it in your own ways.
At this
point, I wish to thank Gina from USA, who had wished that Swami
should
reward, and I am happy and contented that I have already been
rewarded
twice, and I thank Gina for the prayer that she had for me. This
also goes
to prove that prayers can be very powerful particularly when we do
things
selflessly.
Since Swami says that the atman in all of us in one, I think we
can bring
the scene in front of our eyes and enjoy those moments.
Finally what appeared like eternity, Swami moved away to go the
stage, in
between talking to many and to students in particular. He then sat
in the
stage for about 20 minutes, before taking Aarti and walking out.
But here
again, there was a change yesterday.
Throughout the Aarti Swami was observed to stand on the stage
supervising
the distribution of Prasadam, which was well packed in a container
with
the words "Sri Sathyasai students" mentioned on them. Finally
swami went
out to the Kalyana Mantapam, where they were hosting a lunch for
the
Students and faculty, and from the Kalyana Mantapam, Swami went
back to
Trayee Brindavan.
When Swami arrived in the morning, He was received with piped
music etc.,
And similarly piped music was played at the end when He was
leaving.
Afternoon darshan was equally magnificient, and Swami came around
4.30 PM
and sat for around 30 minutes before taking aarti.
The highlights of Monday (26-4-2004)was the combination bhajan
singing by
students, Brindavan singers and Seva Dal singers. They sang very
well and
with love and affection and gratitude for Swami.
Like I said earlier, the above report is of Monday the 26th April
and it
is 27th today. I am sorry once again, that I could not file this
yesterday
itself.
As I was leaving Brindavan yesterday, I noticed that there were
some other
kind of preparations. Then I saw a notice stuck in a corner which
read
"Akhand Sai Deepam - One Lakh Deepams".
So in order to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Trayee Brindavan,
the
organisers gave a spectacular 100000 lamp show in the night
lighting this
around 6 PM just when it was beginning to get dark. Ofcouse I did
not wait
to see this, since I had to travel far, but today other devotees
told me
that it was fantastic.
sai pranams,
raja
PS: Yesterday when I visited the store, I saw that the "Mahasivarathri
-
2004" DVD had arrived and was put on sale. Also at the bookshop on
sale
was a "veda tutor" in CD format.
those who have not yet registerd their names for a catalouge may
now send
a mail to
srisathyasaisociety@yahoo.co.in
best regards
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2235
April 24, 2004 -
Brindavan on Friday
Sairam brothers
and sisters,
As usual my ISP is continuing to have problems and so I could not
send the
report yesterday.
Swami arrived on Friday a little earlier than usual, and thrilled
the
audience by spending more time with HIs devotees.
It is a joy to watch international devotees silently conveying
their
thanks when He accepts their letters. Their eyes speak it so
beautifully,
such that I cannot easily describe it.
If Swami can give an international devotee that much happiness,
then the
statements which we all have read earlier that Swami chooses his
devotees
carefully, and everyone cannot reach Him so easily, makes it a
reality.
People vie with each other for a better place to sit. Devotees
raise
their hands in salutation, holding their letter on top, so that
Swamy can
see their call. Ofcouse Swami knows everything, and only when the
right
things click into place,does He grant His blessing. One has to
really try
hard.
When Swami sits on the Chair at Ramesh Hall, He observes
everything, and
nothings escapes His attention. His divine grace is always on the
students and faculty. One can fathom His love for students, even
from a
great distance.
On Friday He walked his usual round along the center aisle and
chose to
get into the car before He crossed the Ramesh Hall. Afternoon
darshan
started at 4.15 PM and Swami was there for about 35 minutes.
I hear people always arguing about Kodaikanal visit. I do not
understand
why ? The moment is Here now where Swami is making the devotee
Happy at
Brindavan, Bangalore. Why should anyone break this and imagine a
likely
Kodai visit ? Swami always reminds us about the present and not
think
about the future or past. So it would be wise to do just that.
Crowds nowadays is thin possibly because of the heat. However
devotees
are observed to arrive from far and wide. Almost all of them are
happy
and enjoy their stay here.
That is all for now.
sai regards
Raja
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2204
April 25, 2004 -
Blessed Bhajans Singer
Jai Sairam,
This Sunday(today) is very very special. Because our Lord's
compassion and love can only be understood when you watch His
uncertainty unfolding for Devotees and others' sake. No wonder He
commands us to Love His uncertainty.
Swami came for morning darshan a little past 8 AM. Being Sunday,
crowds were more than normal. I spotted Shri Sunil Gavaskar today.
It is great to watch people who have marked a niche in
International arena and coming for Swami's Darshan. Swami's love
knows no bounds. The tap of love is open and one should know, how
to open it. That is about all.
Bhajans started as usual, but with a difference. May be it is the
selection of Bhajans, may be it is the Grace of the Lord, may be
today's singers were different, the Bhajans throughout the day was
superb. One can notice that the devotees voluntarily take part in
singing the bhajans loudly. Today's Raag, Taal, and Sruti, was
great. It is as if there was a synchronisation between the Lord's
frequency and that of the Devotees'.
The melodies were good. Swami initially started walking through
the ladies side, spoke to couple of ladies, and then crossed over
to the VIP block area, where He walked with a definite purpose to
talk to selected devotees, and get the hearts of the side aisle
people racing because He has to turn into the men side aisle today.
But then "Love my uncertainty" did the trick, and turned smartly
towards the stage, crossing the students and went to the stage to
sit and listen to the Bhajans. After about 30 minutes on the
stage, He got up and walked out through the right side aisle and
through the Ladies towards the Kalyan Mantap area, where I am
given to understand that there was a Narayan Seva (Service to the
poor and downtrodden).
Though I was unable to confirm, Swami it appears walked right into
kitchen area, blessed the food, and supervised the distribution of
clothes and prasadam to the poor people. Infact I did not know
about it at all, until I saw beaming poor people (Ladies and gents),
walking away home with a sari, or a dhoti (dress material worn in
these parts) and with food packed in a leaf.
Looking at those faces, I saw the bewitching Smile of the Lord on
their faces - even it was for a moment, it was written all over
their face, that there is SOMEONE who cares for them too. Against
all hopes and uncertainties, these people elk out a living on a
day to day basis, and today it was their day of celebration. Even
in Kali yug, there is a saviour who has come specially for them,
and training the devotees to learn from "My Life - My Message" and
tell us all, "Why don't you follow my example?"
After about 15 minutes at the Kalyana Mantapam area, Swami came
out and got into the car and drove towards His Residence. So as
usual, devotees did their namaskarams and walked out thinking that
the morning session was over(including me).
I ran out of the gate for a cup of tea before the crowds came,
when someone told me that Swami did the trick all over again, and
came back into the center stage to sit on His chair to listen to
more bhajans. Everyone rushed here and there, to get back to their
missed places. I rushed too but had to contend with standing
outside and listening to the Bhajans and seeing our dear Lord
happily sitting on the Chair. He was thoroughly enjoying the
bhajans today.
After about another 20 minutes, Swami got up and something else
happened, possibly for the first time in years. Due to reasons
unknown, Aarti was performed in the morning on Sunday (On Sundays
Bhajans are continuously sung, and Aarti is given one time only in
the evening), amidst confusion. Swami took it and went out, and
after a pause, the Bhajans continued.
Today in particular there was emotion and feeling in the hearts of
the singers. They cried out to their Lord, invoking and seeking
His Grace. It was very evident, because the devotees were observed
to be whole heartedly joining the Bhajans.
Swami came around 4 PM and took His seat. Even as He entered the
stage, He queried something from the Ladies singers side before
taking HIs seat. Then as usual He was swaying to the music of
Excellent Bhajans.
After about 40 minutes when Aarti was offered, He took a flower
which was offered to Him and kept it with Him. As He was going out
of the stage, He threw the flower to a lady singer devotee and
showed His grace on her. Lucky day for her and I am sure she must
be grateful for her Lord's gesture for her.
Thus ended one of the most fantastic Sunday sessions.
I loved the day. Reading this update, I am sure you all will
equally enjoy.
regards to my brothers and sisters,
Raja
PS: I am very sorry, for my inability to individually answer many
of the mails that I receive, thanking me for what I am doing.
Please don't thank me. I am happy that I have this opportunity to
serve all of you. Due to many constraints, particularly time, I am
unable to respond to your mails individually. Pl forgive me for
that.
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2212
April 22, 2004 -
Darshan news
Jai Sairam brothers
and sisters,
Afternoon update of Wednesday, here at Bangalore.
Swami arrived around 4.10 PM (local time), just when it started
raining. Being a working day, the crowds were quite thin.
It must have been a welcome rain for the devotees because it has
been rather hot at Bangalore for the last so many days. During the
entire period of darshan in the afternoon, it was raining, and it
was as if, Swami had granted that relief.
Sure enough when I returned home travelling around 40 KM, there
was no rain anywhere else. Sai God, always takes care of His
devotees.
I like to mention once again, that Swami looks different when you
look at Him from different angles, different times etc.,
Morning as He was approaching and walking along the center aisle,
He looked like a boy, gradually becoming what He actually is -
looking at 78 years of age. Sometimes I find His hair parted, and
other times, it is in one single round shape.
He plays with His hair at times, when due to breeze or other
reasons, the hair falls or touches His face. It is simply
beautiful to see Swami touching the lock of hair and putting it
back in place.
Yet another thought strikes me always. Swami is the Rama, Krishna
and all the previous avatars put in one single shell NOW. He
speaks about all these previous Avatars. I wonder, about which
Avatar or about whom Krishna or Rama would have spoken in their
days. Food for thought ?
Inspite of His physical discomfort, Swami hardly cares and loves
to walk limping just to please His devotees and Bhaktas. To see
Him walk like that, pains me. But then many say He is God, and so
won't feel pain! But Swami clarifies that He has to undergo all
that a human being has to undergo. Which means that He has to feel
the pain. Swami often says that pain is there, but then because He
is not this body, He does not pay it much attention. Why can't we
likewise do the same. It would save us all huge doctor bills. But
then the Maya (illusion) is so powerful that we all feel the pain,
and want to go the Doctor, and are willing to pay huge bills. Life
is like that.
Bhajans were great as usual. Swami looks at these students who
sing the bhajans with love. His eyes glance at each and every
student who is sitting in front of Him. In His look, there is
everything. Love, affection, joy, abhaya, care, compassion,
caution and whatever you may like to add !
After about 25 minutes Swami took Aarti and left. Thus ended
Wednesday.
Next update within the next few minutes, since it is already
Thursday.
Sai pranams
Raja
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2188
April 22, 2004 -
Gina wished and Lord Accepted her prayer
Jai Sairam,
Today I am particularly happy, because I received a personal
message from one of the devotees from USA by name Gina, who had
expressed her happiness about the reports that I file on Swamy at
Brindavan. She had ended her communication with the wish that the
Lord should reward me.
Guess what happened ?
Being Thursday the crowds were a little more, Swami arrived around
10 minutes to 8 AM, and as usual began walking along the ladies
aisle, and then cutting through to the student side, where He
blessed possibly students having their birthday today. Being
Thursday, Bhajans were being sung in the morning also today. Then
Swami began to walk along the center aisle, starting with ladies
side. Spoke to number of lady devotees and then crossed over to
the gents side. Then He walked along the gents side for faily a
long distance, with the car discreetly following. I got a seat in
the right aisle again today, and had no hopes of Swamy coming
anywhere near, particularly since Swami went past the side aisle
hardly two days ago.
But today Swami did not even glance at the car. He smartly turned
left at the end of Ramesh Hall center aisle, and caused a real
flutter of excitement in the men wing. Lots of devotees were
observed to cross over all the way, quietly finding gaps and
filling them up quick. My own heart ran wild, because it appeared
that there was a chance of Gina's prayer coming true. Would Swamy
come near me ?
Prayers are always listened to by our beloved Lord. With His
compassion, He slowly came nearer and near and was within 2 feet
of me. He did not look at me when He was that near, but I was so
happy with His nearness, that tears almost came to my eyes. Thus a
devotee's wish and blessing all the way from USA, came true when
she wished that I should be rewarded for the efforts in filing
these reports. I would like to thank Gina, for making a wish like
that.
Ofcourse all of you know, that none of us should expect a reward
because, for us Swami is far more important and there is delight
in sharing the info relating to Swami. Each one of us are finding
the path of spirituality being opened which is mutually beneficial.
Most of us have seen the other paths and where they lead, before
we gracefully accepted the path shown by Swami.
Coming back to Darshan, today something else happened for the
first time. Ever since His fall in June last year, Swami never
walked a full circle as He did today. He started from the center
aisle, and completed a full circle of the men's wing, before
getting onto the stage, to listen to the Thursday morning bhajans.
It is a miracle come true. To see Swami walk that far in one
continuous session, it was simply superb. May all of us benefit
hereafter by Swami's walk as before amongst the devotees. The car
kept following but Swami did not even glance at it. The car had to
return silently to the side parking lot.
After about 15 minutes on the center stage listening to Bhajans,
Swami took Aarti and left. Thus today morning Darshan, was
fantastic for hundreds of devotees and to me in particular,
because now I am thrice blessed in seeing Swami real close within
a period of 20 days.
Based on the report that I had filed on Shri Narasimha Moorthy's
book, queries have begun to come to the book center. Atleast that
is what the staff told me. I too purchased the book recently, and
liked the contents. Mr Narasimha Moorthy must have really
struggled to reach his present location, and ofcourse with Swami's
grace, it is obvious that anyone of us can cross the mountain or
the ocean with ease. We just need His namasmarana. The name of the
God on our lips all the time, would do wonders.
Afternoon darshan started a little before 4 PM and Swami took His
chair to listen to some excellent whole hearted Bhajans singing by
the Students. I really admire their grit to please Swami. Swami as
usual glanced at each one of the boy, and swaying to the Bhajans.
He sat for nearly 40 minutes before taking Aarti and leaving.
Hope you are all benefitting from the catalogue that most of you
must have received from srisathyasaisociety@yahoo.co.in
The store tells me that orders have come from Germany, London and
the USA for multimedia CD-ROM packages that was recommended in the
catalogue. I am now planning to plunge into a new area of inviting
those whom I know to gift "My love - My Message" CD-ROM to another
family, whom we love. I feel that if each one of us were to make
this gift to someone that we love, we would actually spread the
message of Swami, wisely and as an act of Service. And ofcourse
within this next month or so, I plan to procure a package of these
CD-ROMs for my family too. What I could not learn or teach about
culture, I am sure that these CD-ROMs would do, and Ichildren in
our families would benefit, besides our friends and relatives.
I am now eagerly waiting to lay my hands on Prof Korubu's book,
that I mentioned in my last mail. I am searching for the same, and
have not been able to get it so far. Once I read it, I will tell
you the gist of it.
Jai sairam and in sai love I end today's report. And Gina sister,
thanks for your prayer and I acknowledge that I got the reward
today.
Raja
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2189
April 21, 2004 -
Twice blessed
Jai Sairam,
Once again due to ISP crash, I could not send this report
yesterday
itself. My apologies.
Even as I was waiting for Swami's darshan yesterday, I came across
a
teacher who asked me whether I have yet read the book of
Prof.Korubu, to
which I replied in the negative.
On query, I was given to understand the manner in which our
beloved Lord
selected the faculty for his deemed University long ago.
This was during the time, when Prof Gokak was the vice chancellor.
And
they had advertised for 15 faculty positions to be filled up and
something
like 18000 applications were received. With that sort of
overwhelming
response, the authorities were flabbergasted as to how to select
the
faculty.
After lot of deliberation, it was decided to place the matter in
the hands
of Swami, and Swami told them to arrange all the applications
received on
a big table, and that He would come and help the selection process.
As organised by the University staff and on an appointed day, our
Lord
visited the Administration Office to see the letters arranged on
the
table.
After looking at the applications for a few seconds, Swami put out
His
hand and selected 15 applications, and gave them to the Vice
Chancellor.
Much to the delight of one and all, it was found that Swami had
selected
one faculty each for all the 15 faculty needs. What a miracle !
When we have such a master churning us around, "Why fear, when I
am here"?
Morning Darshan started as usual around 8.15 AM, and Swami walked
His
usual way. However once again, to the delight of those who were
sitting on
the side aisle(men), Swami turned into the side aisle and caused
such a
beautiful excitement.
Thus I am now twice blessed to have the Darshan of our beloved
Bhagavan,
close up, really close in the last 20 days that Swamy has been
here. Is
it not wonderful. Please join me in our sincere prayer to keep the
Lord
with us all the time. He is ever so merciful, and compassionate.
The afternoon darshan started a little after 4 PM, and Swami took
His
chair to listen to the bhajans, which went on for sometime.
However Swami
departed 20 minutes after His arrival and went through the right
exit on
the center stage, which is rare. He normally goes through the left
exit
only.
Swami took a letter from an International devotee hild yesterday
morning,
making the child and their family so happy. If you had looked at
the face
of the child and Swami's face, there was perfect unison and
integration.
Purity does help as Swami says. What a sweet smile Swamy gave to
that
child.
Most of the society leave their children care of the TV (Tele
Visham, as
swamy points out; Visham means Poison). However this International
devotee
thought it fit to bring a small child all the way for an
introduction to
the Master of the Universe.
Today (Wednesday) the morning darshan started at aroun 8.10 AM and
Swami
as usual came via the ladies side. Today He did marathon walking,
walking
all the way into the extended area of Ramesh Hall ignoring the car
that
was discreetly following HIM. Such was His compassion for His
devotees,
who had thronged to see HIm from real close.
Since my ISP is still down, I thought it fit to send this update
from a
cybercafe today, instead of waiting for evening to go home and
then send.
Somebody drew my attention also today to one of the best sai
humour.
During Prof Kasturi's days, Swami one day asked him, as to why he
was
wearing a bandage on his forehead (He meant the thick Vibhuti
horizontal
lines that Prof Kasturi used to wear always). To Swami it appeared
as a
bandage ?
Kasturi who is known for his sense of wit, took it beautifully and
informed Swami that he needed that bandage to get rid of the
worldly
BONDAGE. How nice it was to listen to this sai humor.
Sai pranams.
Raja
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2170
April 17, 2004 -
Tragedy strikes Kerala devotee
Sairam brothers and sisters,
Good is always followed up by something bad. God's name and
meditation alone saves one from the jaw of perils that await us at
each moment of our sojurn on this earth.
Thus it is with a sad feeling of loss that I now write to inform
you all about tragedy striking one of the devotee troupe that was
returning to Kerala from Bangalore in a van.
It appears that the van in which a lot of devotees were travelling
towards Kerala fell down 20 feet when the Driver who is also a
seva Dal momentarily slept, and lost control.
The outcome was, many were injured but one Office bearer of the
Sri sathyasai Organisation from Kerala by the name of Shri
Chandrasekhar had to sacrifice his life.
How fortunate he must have been. Even during death, which took him
by surprise, he must have carried the sweet and loving memories of
darshan of his chosen Lord. May we all pray for his soul to rest
in peace with our dear Bhagavan.
I could not post this update yesterday due to computer problem.
Darshan in the morning on Friday was earlier than usual and Swami
arrived at 7.25 AM, changing the previous routine. He walked as
usual amongst the students and devotees, for about 20 minutes
before choosing to get into the car and leave for Trayee Brindavan.
Ofcourse He left His entire team of devotees very very very happy.
The afternoon session was very nice with lovely bhajans being sung
by the college students. Swami enjoyed the bhajans often swaying
to the music. He looked hard at some of the boys singing the
bhajans. Couple of times He glanced at the ladies side.
After about 30 minutes He got up and took Aarti and left. Thus
ended the Friday.
With the departure of Kerala youth it is very noticeable that the
crowds have reduced. It was like a fair when the Kerala team was
here.
Afternoon session yesterday was also like the morning on Friday.
Swami arrived around 4.15 PM and sat for about 30 minutes. For the
first time, in long years, I was fortunate to get a seat somewhere
near, and I could see Swami clearly.
He looked magnificient. After about 30 minutes, Swami took Aarti
and left via the back stage.
Today at the store I saw that they have introduced paper bags in
place of plastic, to carry the stores items purchased. This was
quite a good move to be environment friendly and was very well
appreciated by the International Devotees. When I enquired further
I was given to understand that number of ex students of the
Sathyasai Institutes have joined together to train the rural folks
making these paper covers as a seva project so that they could
earn an income and the waste paper be recycled in the bargain. The
covers were expected to take up to 4 Kg weight.
Lovely lillies and lotus decorate the Book center and stores area.
These are a sight to watch and enjoy.
The Kerala Youth conference discourse by Swami was selling like
hot cake today. Almost everyone was purchasing a cassette. Now we
await the release of Swami's speech on the 15th in cassette form.
It should come out in a day or two as per the Stores Staff.
A new audio CD was found at the store titled "Sai Baba". This I am
given to understand consists of all the Telugu Compositions of
Swami in His yester Years. I was told that an Italian devotee has
set music to the singing of Telugu poems by Swami and many
International devotees were observed to purchase this.
I also heard couple of devotees enquiring from the staff to
recommend a set of CD-ROMs/VCDs that would be considered useful
for families back home, when they went back. I heard the staff
recommending to purchase "My Life - My Message", "The Quest",
"Life is a game" and "Chinna Katha Vol I and Vol II" as the
package that is strongly recommended for each family. The package
cost without shipping costs would be around 1500 in Indian Rupees.
Some of the items which were very popular with the Russian
devotees in particular was "Chyawanprash" one of the excellent
health tonics made in India by a company. It was observed that the
Russian devotees were carrying two per head atleast.
Saturday turned out to be calm day, except that the Sun has begun
to show His might once again. Days are fairly hot now once again
in Bangalore. Swami came in around 8.15 AM and walked His usual
area, before getting into the car and going away.
The afternoon session was also similar like the previous day with
Swami sitting for about half hour. However there was a distraction
today, with one older devotee falling down unconscious and
creating problems for the Admininistration.
Swami kept looking at that disturbance, and so followed the
devotees assembled inside.
Luckily to the relief of all, the older devotee revived and we all
saw Swami raising His right hand in Abhaya and blessing the
devotee. Swami stayed for around half hour and left via the back
stage.
Next update on Sunday follows tomorrow.
Until then, Jai sairam
regards to each and everyone of you.
Raja
PS: Pl forgive my typos as I do not have time to re-check. There
may be many spelling errors.
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2131
April 19, 2004 -
Peace at Brindavan
Sairam brothers and
sisters,
Firstly my apologies for not sending yesterday's update. ie.,
Sunday's - due to my ISP being down and I did not have the
opportunity to go out.
Sunday was as usual. At Brindavan the Sunday routine starts with
commencement of instrumental music, as soon as Swami is seen
outside of his Trayee Brindavan residence, and is immediately
replaced by the start of bhajans by Brindavan Bhajan Group.
Incidently Brindavan Bhajan group consists of members who vie very
hard to present their devotion to Swamy and are a blessed lot.
Almost all of them are excellent singers. Those who have the
natural talent for being a lead bhajan singer and are regular and
sincere in their devotion to Bhagavan, are selected by the senior
membes of the Brindavan Bhajan group (both ladies and gents), and
are gradually moulded into being fit singers to sing live in front
of Swamy. Swamy enjoys their bhajans, many a time swaying to the
music melodies presented by this talented group. At times Swami is
in bliss listening to these bhajans.
Often you can notice Swamy looking at these singers with love and
affection and would raise His hand in Abhaya. Many want to sit
where these singers sit, but one has to do penance for reaching
where these bhajan singers have reached. Such is their love and
dedication to Swami.
Swami would occassionally, grant grace by giving these singers a
sari, or a dress material etc., and the joy these singers derive
from receiving such token of love direct from their saviour cannot
be easily described.
On Sunday Swami came a little late and did not do His usual round.
Infact He surprised everyone who were craning their neck as usual
at the Ladies entrance, by entering through the back of the stage
and coming directly to His chair on the stage and sitting down
there.
He enjoyed about 10 Bhajans are so, before electing to leave by
the back door. As usual He looked in the direction of students,
singers and the devotees assembled (both sides) before moving away.
As is the practice, the Bhajans continued right from morning that
Swamy appeared. On Sundays the Bhajans do not stop and Aarti is
not given to Swami until He comes a second time in the afternoon,
and now at the end of Bhajans when Swamy gets up, Aarti is given.
So for all practical purposes, Swami is present in the Bhajan Hall
even though He has physically left His chair.
Swami came around 4.15 PM in the afternoon, and again took His
chair straight. He sat for just 15 minutes and left the Hall after
blessing the devotees. Thus ended the Sunday.
Today - Monday was a repeat of Sunday, except that Swami delighted
the assembled devotees by accepting their letters, affectionately
talking to many devotees from all the Blocks, and particularly
making many a foreign devotee happy by accepting their letters.
You should be here to see the joy on their face when Swami takes
one of their letter.
Blessed are these international devotees, who have spent a large
sum to come all the way just to receive the blessings of our
beloved Bhagavan. I say this particularly because there are people
right here in whitefield who have not yet entered the Asram.
Unless Baba wills it no one can visit Puttaparthi or Brindavan -
that is for sure. This is also an indication that Lord knows who
is related in what manner in the many births that we all take.
Today I heard the report on the book written by Sri
Narasimhamoorthy, warden of the Sathya Sai Boys hostel at
Brindavan. This book is lively and narrates the hurdles one has to
cross, before coming closer to the Lord. If you have not read the
same, you can order the same by sending an email to
srisathyasaisociety@yahoo.co.in
As mentioned earlier, any devotee can now order a book or VCD or
CD-ROM by email and get it at your respective location. For this
all you need to do is to register your name by sending an email to
the above email address.
Swami came around 4.05 PM today for the evening Darshan and sat
for about 30 minutes. The studetns as usual sang excellent bhajans.
Swami took Aarti and left.
At the store today I saw the huge canvass of Swami being sold for
Rs.1650. Fantastic canvass and very huge. Must be around 6 feet by
5 feet or so. I shall try to get a digital photo of the same soon,
if possible, and then circulate it so that those devotees who may
like to have them, can correspond with Brindavan stores.
Hopefully my next update will have Part - II of "How I met Baba".
I am sorry to have delayed this, but it has become very difficult
to devote more time for the computer, particularly when Baba is
here at Bangalore.
With sai regards to each one of you.
Raja
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2156
April 15, 2004 -
Kerala Team misses the surprise discourse today
Sairam dear brothers
and sisters,
It has been a day of uncertainty and surprise.
Majority of Kerala devotees had left yesterday on the conclusion
of the Onam (VISHU) function. Today being Thursday here, the
crowds were large.
I could get a better seat finally for darshan, after the departure
of the Kerala devotees. Instumental music started at 7.50 AM, and
all necks were craned towards the entry to Ladies wing. But there
was no sight of Swami anywhere.
Time stopped for all. Time went too fast for the impatient ones.
Swami nowadays beautifully demonstrates His "Love my uncertainty".
Many got up to leave as time kept ticking past. Bhajans were going
on in the normal way. It became 8.15 AM, then 8.30 PM, then it
became nearly one hour after the commencement of instrumental
music, with no sight of Swami.
Then there was a call for the Kerala Organisers to go to Trayee
Brindavan (Did Swamy call for them?) They left their seats and
hurried, only to return shortly, because Swami made His entrance
in a grand way at 9 AM finally. So it was more than 70 minutes
from the time the instrumental music started to finally Swami
entering the stage. Swami did not get down at the ladies side, but
entered through the rear of the stage and came and took His seat.
However hardly two bhajans finished after Swami's arrival, when
Swami got up to leave. Aarti was given and Swami made His exit.
That's it. The morning session ended with this uncertainty.
Afternoon session had a different type of surprise. Swami sat
through the Bhajans sessions, and then at some point in time, He
signalled for someone from the audience to come to the stage, and
I understand that it was Mr Bopat from London UK, who addressed
the audience as directed by Swami. This was a surprise event.
Swami did not stop with that. He signalled for things to be
arranged and guess what ? To the delight of one and all it turned
to be a discourse, that was anticipated both on Tamil New Year's
day as well as Malayam New Year's day (Vishu), which ofcourse did
not take place. Swami spoke on the theme of "Love as the basis"
for everything in this universe. Thus ended a great day of
uncertainty.
Kerala devotees were so eager to hear Him. But it was not destined
due to reasons known only to Swami. I am sure when they come to
know about this they will all feel bad. Few left over Kerala
devotees were lucky ofcourse. You know how it is. Some people
usually stay a little long to be with Swami, while others have to
go back, to attend to their routine.
When I visited the store, I found the Cassette on sale, with
Swami's discourse which He made on the inauguration of "Kerala
Youth conference". This is priced at Rs.20 and can be purchased
from the store.
If you have someone in Bangalore, then ask them to pick up this
cassette for you. Contents of the discourse will appear shortly in
the Sanathana Sarathy also, in the routine manner.
I am given to understand that Brindavan does not have the facility
like Puttaparthy, to get the discourses translated then and there
and made available to public on the same day. Here it takes time,
to find an editor and then make it available.
I have received many "thank you" messages from devotees who have
registered their names for catalogues from the Books center at
Brindavan. I am simply conveying what I see, and no special thanks
are called for. If devotees around the world are happy, then it
makes me happy too. We are together in this as a sai family, and
sharing means caring.
We all can join and help in making devotees around the globe aware
of Swami's mission. Towards this, I request all group members to
pass on the facility of receiving the catalogue and other
audio/video items direct from Brindavan Asram, by asking them to
register their names at srisathyasaisociety@yahoo.co.in This by
itself would be a seva.
Also at the store, I found a new VCD "Sant Jayadeva" which is
available on sale. I witnessed this dance drama, which was
excellent. It is about Saint Jayadeva, who has the darshan of
Krishna (Jagannatha), under difficult circumstances. I recall with
delight that this dance drama was very well appreciated and
praised by International devotees in particular. The settings for
this dance drama was so superb that it was difficult to believe
that the sets were made by students and not professionals. This
dance drama took place during the recent sports meet in January
2004.
Well that is all for now. I request all group members to recite "Aum
Bhagavan Sri Sathyasai Babaya Namah" 108 times whenever they
undertake travel. This mantra is very potent and powerful.
with sai pranams and sai love
regards
Raja
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2100
April 14, 2004 -
In HIS Durbar
Sairam to dear
brothers and sisters,
Following the captain that read on the entrance to the Brindavan
Asram, as well as inside the Ramesh Hall, I too take this
opportunity to wish all brothers and sisters "Wish u a very HOLY
and HAPPY VISHU"
The people of Kerala, I mean the devotees from there, are simple
and great. They do everything with a purpose. Today I was amazed
to see the pain they had taken to dress up our Lord's Durbar. It
was too good. Excellent green festoons, natural decoorations and
the like, covered the entire Brindavan Asram Area. Majority of
devotees wore their traditional Dress(ladies) and thus they stood
out from the masses. This is unlike others, where there is not
much of traditional dress seen.
Crowds had assembled as early as 6 AM inside the hall, and
obviously all Kerala devotees and guests were given the topmost
priority to sit inside. There was absolutely no place and people
were standing and craning their necks to catch a glimpse of our
beloved LORD.
Bhagavan arrived around 8.15 AM and entered through the Ramesh
Hall through the ladies side. Today He walked so fast even though
holding the hand of possibly a teacher. He went straight to the
first block where the musicians and bhajans singers had assembled,
and was immediately offered Poorna Kumbham on behalf of the Kerala
State Devotees, invoking the blessings of Bhagavan for their New
Year Day (Vishu). Thereafter He spoke with Sundaram Bhajan group
singers from Chennai and then moved on to students block and spoke
to students, who were so eager to have the attention of their Lord
and Saviour. Then He spent a lot of time with the Kerala Youth,
talking to many of them and accepting lots of letters. He equally
visited the Kerala Ladies side along the center aisle and made
them happy too, taking letters from them. Nearly at the end of
Ramesh Hall along the center aisle, He got into the car and drove
slowly out to Trayee Brindavan, and then re-entered the stage and
took His seat to listen to some Excellent Bhajan singing by Kerala
singers. Then He took Aarti, saw through prasadam distribution and
left the stage slowly.
The Hall had one particular banner that said "We Love You Swami"
besides other eye catching banners and festoons. Most of Swami's
teachings were on display. Center stage where Swami normally sits
was decorated beautifully.
There was no discourse today also in the morning.
However there was a pleasant surprise in our Prime Minister making
a visit to the asram to seek Swami's blessing.
Devotees from Kerala thronged the Snacks counter and stores, and
enjoyed lovely snacks provided by the asram and reduced costs.
Particularly Ice cream, Buttermilk, juices, coke etc., were their
favorite because of the hot sun.
Many devotees were observed to purchase the audio CDs to take back
home.
The Books center was equally crowded. Since the crowds were
unprecedented, it was a tough time for Gokulam to manage the
breakfast and lunch and thus many preferred to eat the snacks at
the snacks counter.
By 3.30 PM the hall was once again full for the Afternoon darshan.
Everyone was eagerly waiting for the discourse atleast in the
evening. What is in store ?
Swami arrived only at 4.45 PM. As soon as He came, Bhajans started
but the Kerala State President signalled to stop after two bhajans,
after speaking to Swami and now came the surprise.
An excellent Karnatic Classical Flute music treat was granted to
the devotees and the program was simply superb.
Swami enjoyed every bit. The high light of the program was the
jugalbandi of nine percussion instruments and they were obviously
experts. Swami enjoyed it so much, that He clapped like an
ordinary mortal when the Jugalbandi ended. "Bolanath" was in bliss
throughout the program. The program lasted nearly 45 minutes and
Swami in between spoke to staff, and it emerged that Swami was
going to honour the musicians.
Swami finally got down from the stage, walked right into the
musicians and bhajans singers block much to the delight of these
performers and individually gave dress to deserving musicians.
There were overjoyed. It was wonderful to see Swami tossing the
Dhoti and Angavastra (dress set as worn by the people of Kerala).
Swami also sprang a surprise. After presenting dress to Classical
artistes, He walked to a particular musician, and possibly told
him to sing ? because suddenly the musician who sang yesterday
presented a song only for Bhagavan, with Bhagavan standing right
over him. Staff brought a chair for Swami to sit right amongst the
group of people in the first block, but Swami elected to stand and
listen. He then affectionately caressed the young artiste, blessed
him too with a dress.
Thereafter He got into the car and slowly drove away through the
ladies wing and into Trayee Brindavan. Thus ended a grand New Year
day of Vishu.
Now what is next in store ?
Jai sairam
Raja
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2088
April 13, 2004 -
Integrated Tamil New Year & Vishu (Malayam New Year)
Jai sairam to
brothers and sisters,
Nowadays Extraordinary days are the "normal" type of days, here at
Brindavan. Today was no exception. I was under the impression that
Tamil New Year day was tomorrow and Vishu was today. This was
based on the assumption that the Kerala devotees have come for 3
days and so, immediately on completion of Vishu , ie., Malayalam
New Year day, the Tamil New Year's day would follow.
As I reached Brindavan today, I was amazed to see that the place
outside the Asram was literally buzzing with activity as if it was
7 PM in the evening. Hotels were making good income from devotees.
Inside the asram, there were huge festoons in Ramesh Hall, lot of
Swami's sayings, beautifully decorated in the form of banners, and
Sarva Dharma symbol banners decorated the entire Ramesh Hall. The
sanctum sanctorum itself where Swami normally sits was very
beautifully and tastefully decorated.
Crowds were managed beautifully today. All Tamil speaking people
were given preference to sit as much in the front as possible. The
rest of the place was filled up by the Kerala Youth. Remember I
had mentioned that nearly 3000 kerala devotees have arrived here.
Swami came in around 8.15AM and got down from the car and walked
up via the ladies wing to students block and VIP block where
possibly he spoke with "Governor of Karnataka ?
Thereafter Swami went up the stage and took His seat, and the
Bhajans by Sundaram Group, Chennai started. They sang the Bhajans
beautifully. After sometime, Swami took leave, took Aarti and left.
So everyone's hope of listerning to Swami in the form of a
discourse did not fructify. There was no discourse today morning.
The Tamil group from Chennai have put up an excellent Books show
along with the Brindavan Books center.
Long queues were observed both at Coffee shop and Snacks Shop
besides the Stores. More people had enquired about registering
their names for receiving information pertaining to books and
CD-ROMs/ VCDs. I am constantly bringing this point to brother and
sister devotees around the globe so that they too can take benefit
of what the Asram at Brindavan has to offer. Incase you have not
yet registered your email ID, then please do so, by sending an
email to mailto:srisathyasaisociety@yahoo.co.in or mailto:srisathyasaisociety@lovelyindia.com
You will get the catalogue direct from the Asram.
I saw the demo of "Chinna Katha" today. Excellent for young
children so that their minds can be moulded easily to the system
that Swami recommends. Both the multimedia CD-ROMs are priceless
possessions. Details about this must have been received by all
those who already registered their names. I received the
information, on CD-ROMs few days ago.
Swami arrived around 4.15 PM, for afternoon darshan. As soon as he
came, Ganesha bhajan was sung by Sundaram Group. Then two young
boys, recited Slokas from Upanishads and also gave the english
translation. Swami blessed the Children. Then Sundaram group gave
an excellent music extravaganza. It was superb. Swami just like
the presentation by Kerala group, was in deep bliss.
One of the song sung by the group was about "Sai Bhaktas wanting
to be with Swami" irrespective of the number of times that they
took birth. The song prayer stated that let there be any number of
births, but on being born, one should be granted the previlege of
being a Sai Bhakta.
The second song was about, how one could only see "SAI, SAI and
SAI" irrespective of which God the devotee worshipped. Sai Roopam
was the only one that the devotee could see.
There was a short musical interlude (Instruments only) more in the
style of "Jugalbandi" and this was fantastic. This was followed by
"Aum Namaschivaya" sloka.
A time came when possibly the Group did not cater for a long
program and had to stop and the Tamilnadu President had to tell
Swami. Swami did not show the least interest in getting up and
leaving. But Aarti was given, without Swami getting up from His
seat, and Swami left with lot of reluctance from the stage.
Atleast it appeared so!
And there was no discourse in the evening too, and everyone was
dejected. Thus ended the Tamil New Year day.
Preparations are on war footing for Kerala (Malayalam) New Year
day, and huge decorations were being built by seva dal from Kerala.
Tomorrow we are in for a grand treat, if we were to go by last
year's standards.
I did not adequately cover the Kerala program yesterday and
adequate justice was not done. Possibly it was "Sreekumar" famous
film back singer who presented yesterday. His singing is well
known and Swami always blesses him. Melody coupled with devotion
is Sreekumar's style and with an super voice. Devotees and
visitors were spell bound. Even though Swami left the stage, He
told him to continue yesterday. This was something unusual.
Wait for the Vishu update. Sorry I am unable to put up the
discourse of yesterday. It is not yet ready. If the cassette is
ready tomorrow, I shall try and put up the update.
sai pranams.
Raja
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2072
April 13, 2004 - Swami escalates
"Love My Uncertainty"
Jai Sairam,
Monday has not only been auspicious but it was also something
extraordinary. Kerala Youth as usual occupied Brindavan. They were
found conducting Medical camps, blood donation camps etc.,
Swami came around 8.15 AM and walked amongst His devotees in His
usual style, accepting letters and taking to Kerala Youth in
particular. However He did not do the complete round of blocks.
Somewhere in the middle of the center aisle, He elected to sit in
the car, and drive out through the exit near the Hostel.
Thus the devotees thought that Swami has gone out and started
leaving. Many a devotee, some students and some staff had already
left, when Swami who went into Trayee Brindavan, cool as the God
He is, reapeeared in the stage, much to the delight of all the
devotees, bringing a huge cheer. All those who had left made hurry
to get back to their seats, and could not find their old seats.
After the morning session, the Kerala Youth ofcourse had many
sessions of their Sadhana camp I am told. The Kalyana Mantapam was
full, and I did not venture into because I thought that I would
steal a genuine seat of an aspiring Kerala devotee.
Afternoon darshan started fairly late close to 4.30 PM, and Swami
came and took His chair,and the Bhajan started. However after the
second bhajan, Swami signalled to someone down below, and we were
all pleasantly surprised to hear a music troupe going up the stage
and Swami in His compassion and mercy, made place for them to sit
on the stage along with Him, and gave them permission to present
their talent.
Inspite of his physical discomfort, He got up and got His chair
relocated, so that the musicians could sit comfortably and sing
for Him and His devotees. Once the music started, He lost himself
thoroughly enjoying the music.
The music went on for more than one hour, which is considered
unusal, and Swami at one time, got up to leave and when they tried
to present Aarti, Swami told them to continue singing and left the
stage without Aarti. Much later nearly 15 minutes after that, He
gave permission through an emissary to take aarti without Him on
the stage and thus ended a glorious day.
More about the singers in my next mail.
Jai sairam.
Raja
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2066
April 11, 2004 - Swamy inagurates
Kerala Youth Conference
Sairam,
Today has been an extraordinary day. Brindavan campus wore a
festive look and the campus was full of Kerala devotees. There was
no place for the usual devotees since the Kerala devotees had to
be given preference. Even the VIPs were shifted far behind.
Kerala singers sang bhajans throughout the day, right from morning
to till Aarti in the evening. Swami came around 8.15 AM and did
not go around at all. Instead he went into the stage and sat on
the chair.
The Kerala State President then took Swami's permission and spoke
to the audience. This was followed by one of the students speaking
to the audience and it was wonderful to listen to the student who
pointed out why Swami is here and for whom. He also mentioned
about a dream which he had in which Swami gave him the "meaning"
of "Hold on to me".
I shall mention about this dream later.
Then came the beautiful surprise. Swami gave a fantastic discourse
to the audience. The theme was "Protect Satya, and live for
Sathya" and then you don't have to do anything for Dharma because
Sathya looks after everything. As soon as the cassette is released
I shall try and send the details.
He also mentioned that Kerala people maintain many of the
traditions.
After discourse, Swami left. He gave his kind consent for the
staging of a drama today in the evening at 5.30 PM and also His
consent to use the Kalyan Mantap for Kerala people to conduct
their sadhana camp.
It was also mentioned by the Kerala State President that 3000
Volunteers have come. One thing to note is that Kerala Youth means,
they meant "Youth". It was fantastic to watch so many youths.
I am sorry for this short update, because it is already very late
and I need to be there for darshan early. So I will catch up with
details shortly. Pl bear with me until then.
sai pranams
regards
Raja
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2046
April 10, 2004 - Kerala Youth
take over Brindavan Campus !
Jai Sairam,
Brindavan Asram is becoming livelier by the moment, minute, hour
and day.
Business outside the asram is in full swing, the hotel walas and
taxiwalas have their bonus days, for which they have been waiting
all these months.
Right from morning 5 AM, there is crowd outside the asram, the tea
shops and snack shops are doing excellent business.
Today Swami came a little late (nearly at 8.30 am), and as usual
got down on the ladies side from the car, talked to couple of
ladies and then the students and then slowly went along the center
aisle. One could see the swell of devotees and bhaktas, the
curious onlookers, the first timers, the impatient ones, the
analytical ones, and many types of such people gathered in Ramesh
Hall. Swamy took lots of letters, gave Vibhuti to quite a few,
sprinkled Akshata, (holy rice) on many who had brought them to get
Swami's blessings etc., Particularly Swami fondled and caressed an
International devotee's hair while talking to him. He walked right
out of Ramesh Hall, into the covered and raised new extended hall,
and spoke to lot of people who had gathered there. Then He got
into the car, and slowly got down from the College Boys Hostel
side and slowly drove into Trayee Brindavan.
I wonder how many of you have noticed. Swami's appearance is never
the same. Morning He looks different, evening He looks different,
during Bhajans He looks different, during His talk with devotees
He looks different. Even His hair appears different at different
times. It is something extraordinary that only an Avatar can have.
Thus ended Swami's morning darshan, which lasted about half an
hour. Then there was mad rush of devotees everywhere to the
gokulam canteen for B'fast, to the Stores which has now some
excellent items for devotees, and to the Book shop, where the
staff were continuously giving demos of "My Life - My Message", "Quest"
and "Chinna Katha" CD-ROM . If you were to stand and watch the
ordinary devotees reaction to these demos, you could see that they
were absolutely mesmerised and did not hesitate in purchasing.
Many mentioned that these CD-ROMs were ideal gift to people back
home, for Bal Vikas purposes and for elder folks and sit and watch
in their own spare time, within the house. Also on display was
huge canvas of Swami at the store, which was found priced at Rs.1650.
Many international and Indian devotees were purchasing this canvas,
and I am sure, it would make one very good pooja place when you
install the Lord back home.
Then started the fun. Groups of devotees from Kerala began
arriving. By early afternoon, nearly 700 of them (boys and girls
from Youth wing of Kerala State), had arrived and were occupying
the specially alloted areas for Darshan of their beloved Lord.
Infact the Center Section of Ramesh Hall was literally full of
Kerala people. When I enquired how many have come they replied
that 3000 strong group has arrived and would come for Darshan in
groups of 750 each day. Wow, that is Swami's love for Kerala and
Kerala's love for Swami. In recent times, Kerala has been steadily
bringing lots of devotees for the New Year function, which they
call it as "Vishu"
During the morning Darshan, Swami spoke to the State President of
Kerala. Last year the Kerala devotees had put up such an excellent
program for Swami, and I am sure this year they are going to
outbeat it. They have beautiful singers, they had brought mentally
retarded and handicapped children last time who did excellent
dances.
Afternoon Swami arrived only around 4.30 PM and was there for
about 20 minutes. He looked slowly and hard at the Kerala group,
and stood for a long time during Aarti. Then he departed. Bhajans
nowadays is nectar. How I wish I am one of those boys. They are
able to do that in the proximity of God, and with His grace.
Well thus ended the Saturday. I wonder what is in store tomorrow.
I am sure there will be wonderful moments.
In my last mail, I was telling you about a sevak, who is
illiterate, and I learnt how he happened to come to Swami's fold.
He is from interior Karnataka and has been a Hanuman Bhakta. Back
home he managed to attach himself to a Muslim, whom he found was
always worshipping Hanuman ! Have you heard anything like this
before ? A Muslim worshipping Hanuman. That Sadhu muslim, told
this Sevak, that he must take further advise from his sister, who
is equally a Hanuman Bhakta being a Muslim lady.
This lady in turn, told this sevak, that he must proceed to
Puttaparthy and become a Bhakta of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, who is God
incarnate. She herself had never come to see our Lord, but she had
instructed this sevak that he must go to Puttaparthy. Thus started
the journey for this sevak nearly 12 years ago, and today, he is
doing Seva to Swami, in whatever capacity that he can.
He also told me things that explained the omniscience of our
beloved Lord. One day in 1993, he had a dream, in which Swami
asked him what he wanted, and he replied that he wanted Vibhuti.
Within 3 days of this dream, while he waited for the Lord's
darshan at Puttarparthy, Swami came right to him, and asked him in
Kannada language, what he wanted and he repeated that he wanted
Vibhuti, and Swami created it for him and gave it to him. This was
in 1993 and since then, Swami had spoken to him a number of times,
and had given Vibhuti also. Listening first hand to such fantastic
omniscience of our Lord, sends a wave of bliss. I am sure each one
of you would agree to this.
With Tamil new year day and Malayalam New year day approaching
this coming week, Brindavan is going to witness some fantastic
events. As of now, Kerala youth has taken over the campus, and
they are there everywhere.
God bless and Sai pranams to one and all.
Repeat this mantra 108 times, while you are travelling and have
our Lord with you all the times.
"Aum Bhagavan Sri Sathyasai Babaya Namaha"
Raja
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2042
April 9, 2004 -
Heart stopped and then ran wild
Sairam brothers and
sisters,
Today (Good Friday) has been exceptional for me. You will
understand "why" as you read below.
Swami came today early surprising everyone. He caught even the
college boys by surprise by arriving early. He arrived at 7.25 AM
and as usual got down on the ladies side from car and He walked
from there very fast as if with a purpose and went straight to the
college boys block, where He spent a little time talking to boys
and then gradually moved behind..
Approaching the VIP block, He suddenly announced ( I believe He
spoke so) that He has not been going to the side aisle and so
today He would go to the side aisle of Men. He started off with a
purposeful walk, and surprised everyone. When I saw Him walking
so, I knew immediately that Swami is going to come to my side,
finally, and my heart stopped for a moment before racing again
wildly. Swami hardly stopped anywhere except when He approached a
older devotee, with whom He spoke for a long time (or did the old
devotee speak to Him for a long time ?) The devotee literally held
Swami's hand and would not let it go. Often the devotee would
touch Swami and keep talking also.
Swami made Vibhuti for him and applied it Himself on his forehead.
Then finally after what appeared as eternity, He started walking
and now hardly stopped anywhere. He was continuously walking, yet
He walked very slow, so that all devotees could digest the
beautiful form, the graceful gait, and wonderful smile, the
piercing look. Eager hands reached out to Him, to give their
letters, but Swami indicated whose letter should be collected by
the escorts and given to Him. Particularly He collected some
letters from international devotees, who were absolutely thrilled
that their long wait and travel to India to see their Lord was
well rewarded.
As Swami says that "prayer can do anything", today it was
wonderful to witness this aspect. I have been praying to Swami for
long years to grant me the "Look at me" wish. Swami had never
looked at me even once since 1996 that He saw me for a brief
moment then. Today my long years of prayers was answered and Swami
gave His grace and looked at me, twice. I was absolutely thrilled
because it is a known fact that Swami's glance is enough to grant
you Peace and plenty.
However Swami stopped short of the turn towards the center section,
and consented to get into the Car, from which He gave beautiful
darshan to all devotees and driving very very slowly along the
center aisle and pleasing all the devotees. He was constantly
waving out and blessing. Occassionallly He would stop and talk to
an odd devotee, before continuing. Finally he drove out of Ramesh
Hall to Trayee Brindavan.
Today the crowd has been more than normal, and the hall was full
including the extended hall. Even for afternoon darshan the turn
out was more than normal. With Kerala and Tamilnadu (Malayalam and
Tamil new years) New year approaching, more number of devotees
from these areas are turning up in large numbers. It is expected
that there would be around 20000 plus devotees around 14th and
15th of April. Kerala is expected to bring in a huge contingent of
youth this year also. Last year they did so beautifully well and
Swami was thrilled with their devotion.
Afternoon Swami played His role of "Love my uncertainty"
beautifully once again. Because He arrived earlier in the morning,
the Hall was filled up by 2.30 PM and everyone awaited Swami's
pleasure. But there was no news of Swami even till 4.25 PM. Then
suddenly at 4.30 PM the instrumental music started, and everyone
was happy that Swami is going to come any moment. All eyes were on
the back stage curtain, from where Swami normally arrived. But no
such thing happened. 4.45 PM, then 5 PM and then 5.15 PM went past
with scores of bhajans being sung by students and still no Baba.
Just when everyone thought that there is going to be no darshan,
Swami arrived in His majesty and thrilled the audience. He sat for
about 15 minutes and went away, blessing everyone.
Brindavan is really alive now with hundreds of international
devotees. The coffee shop, Book shop and stores all were full.
People are highly excited. One can observe lot of new white covers
in hands of devotees indicating their preparation to hand over
their letters to Swami.
I also met a sevak, who is not educated, and learnt from him, how
Swami attended to him. More about this in my next mail.
sai pranams and regards
Raja
PS: Today I saw the demonstration of "The Quest" CD-ROM. It is
really superb. In quest of what ? read the details in the mail
that must have come to you from the Secretary, Sri Sathyasai Books
center, giving info on CD-ROMs currently popular. If you have not
got this mail, then register your name with srisathyasaisociety@yahoo.co.in
and you would get the necessary info. In anycase this has also
been circulated by "saibabanews" today, as I observe.
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2038
April 9, 2004 -
Thursday with our Beloved Lord
Sairam brothers and
sisters,
As expected today there was more crowd but not as much as
anticipated possibly because it is also a working day.
Swami came by car at 7.50 AM and got down at the ladies side and
began walking as usual.
Today He received lot of letters and gave vibhuti to couple of
people and even selected couple of people for interviews.
He walked upto the 4th block and possibly because too many
devotees were falling all over Him, He decided to get into the car
and do a full circle of the Hall on the men side and then got down
at the front of the student block and went up the stage by lift
and thereafter sat down in His chair to listen to Bhajans. After
about 20 minutes, He left by the back stage.
I am given to understand that Swami came in around 3.40 PM and sat
for about 30 minutes listening to Bhajans. I could not be present
today in the afternoon, due to personal engagements.
Acknowledgment for registration of my email ID together with the
catalogue of Books and other items, from Sathyasai Book Center,
has been received by me and I am sure many of you also would have
received the same. I went and thanked the concerned staff at the
book center, who also told me that a new CD-ROM on Rama would also
be released soon. Those who are yet to register, may wish to send
an email to srisathyasaisociety@yahoo.co.in
There are many devotees, from USA, who have been asking for "Veda
Pushpanjali" book, which contains the Vedic text together with
meanings. This is now available through the following center at
USA. Those interested can purchase the same locally at USA. from
"Sri Sathya Sai Book Center of America, Tustin, CA"
Jai Sairam
regds
Raja
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2031
April 7, 2004 -
One time Darshan on Wednesday but Devotees Cheer !
Sairam,
Today (Wednesday) it was tough day for one and all. Because Swami
did not come even at 8 AM. Tension mounted. Then at 8.15 AM, it
was word of mouth announced that there is not going to be Darshan.
Everyone was sad, but they had to leave.
Everyone waited for the afternoon darshan. It was 3.45 PM and no
swami. Then it became 4 PM and devotees were holding their breath
to listen to the instrumental music that would signify that
arrival of our beloved Swami. And the music bang started around
4.15 PM to the delight of all.
Swami arrived as usual through the back stage and took his chair
and enjoyed the bhajans. From where I sat, it appeared that Swami
had parted His hair in the middle today. He enjoyed the bhajans
with such love that often He was swaying to the music. When the
Aarti was given, He swayed to the aarti music, while looking
intently at the devotees(men side). Then He blessed a lady and
walked out slowly.
Thus even a one time Darshan today made the Devotees cheer.
Jai sairam
Raja
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2022
April 7, 2004 - Tuesday update
sairam,
Swami came in around 8 AM and entered from the ladies wing. He
walked slowly around the devotees all along the center aisle right
upto the end of the Ramesh Hall, and blessed many a devotees
besides speaking with lots of them. He created Vibhuti for couple
of devotees.
After crossing Ramesh Hall outside, He stood outside short of
Saraswathi for a long time, looking deeply at the devotees
gathered outside, and then signalled for His car to turn around
and come facing Ramesh Hall.
So once again, He gave darshan to devotees sitting inside the car
all along the center aisle before leaving the Ramesh Hall. This
brought a huge cheer from the devotees, since people got double
darshan. Baba was observed to be extremely cheerful waving out to
devotees from inside the car for a long time.
Afternoon darshan was delayed. Swami came in around 4.25 PM and
sat for about 25 minutes enjoying Bhajans. Then He left after
blessing couple of ladies right from the Stage and looking at the
men side for a long time. I am given to understand that Trayee
sessions were held for the boys for the last 2 or 3 days. Lucky
are these young boys and the teaching faculty, who have the Grace
of Swami constantly on them.
Jai sairam
Raja
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2018
April 5, 2004 - Swami looks
younger and younger
Jai Sairam,
It is great to receive your feedback on the reports that I try to
write.
Today (Monday) the attendance was thinner. Swami came around 8 AM
and walked around the students block and then along the Center
aisle right upto Saraswathy. Particularly He made the devotees
sitting near Saraswathy statue very happy, because they could not
have imagined that Swami would walk upto them and take their
letters.
Swami arrived at 4 PM in the afternoon and entered through the
back stage and took his chair. He kept looking at the whole
audience and particularly the men for long time, while enjoying
the Bhajans. One of the recent things that often Swami does is to
brush away the hair falling over His face.
The movement is so casual, so graceful, so cute and one would love
to watch. Atleast I am beginning to understand what Bholanath
means. He is so simple, so loving, so caring, so watchful that if
only we can surrender in totality, then we would have no more
problems. Because He would take care.
Some of the mails describing the whitefield scenerio in 1990s is
very interesting. I am afraid, I am very very new because I
entered Swami's fold only in 1994-95. These days, I listen to
anyone who would tell me about Swami of what He was in the yester
years. I have already met face to face with people who were babes
in Swami's arms, (they have shown me the photo), and they
themselves are around 50 plus.
I visited the Books Center and thanked them for the effort in
sending the catalogue, which many of the devotees would have
received by now. If you have not received the catalogue you can
send a mail to: srisathyasaisociety@yahoo.co.in.
The book center now demonstrates the CD-ROM to the devotees before
they can make up their mind to purchase. But what I saw was so
good that I strongly recommend everyone to consider procuring
these CD-ROMs.
with regards.
Raja
PS: I hope to write about part - II of "How I met Baba" shortly. I
have been awfully busy and unable to find time.
But you shall have it within the next 4 or 5 days.
Jai Sairam
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/2007
April 4, 2004 - Sunday special on
Swami
Sairam brothers and sisters,
Sunday is always exciting at Whitefield, because crowds will be
very huge, and Seva Dal will be available in maximum numbers.
Today was no exception. Ramesh Hall as well as the entire extended
portion outside was filled up to capacity today, in anticipation
of Swami's Darshan.
Since Swami walked right up to Saraswathi yesterday, what was
foremost in everyone's mind was whether Swami would come up to the
end of the newly added Hall and bless Devotees or not ! What is in
store regarding "love my uncertainty ?"
Swami arrived by car as usual on the ladies side by 8 AM. With the
support, he walked through the ladies front side right into the
student block, where he spent considerable time spending talking
to teachers and faculty as well as students. Then he walked up
slowly on to the stage and sat for the Bhajans that were going on.
Remember, on Sundays bhajans start with Swami's arrival, and stops
only in the evening when Swami departs a second time.
After few bhajans Swami got up suddenly and got down from the
stage to speak to the students, then he decided to come around the
student block to the right aisle, where I was sitting on the 4th
block. We were all highly excited and I was sure that today i am
going to see Swami from real close. All eyes were on Him. Everyone
was eager. He talked to many students now forming the rear of the
student block.
But then suddenly He decided to give us all the slip. And turned
around the back side of the student block and decided to talk to a
few VIPs in the VIP block and also the students.
Crossing the student block completely on the rear, he walked
straight into the ladies side, briefly spoke to few ladies and
decided to get into the car and depart. So the "love my
uncertainty" continued today, atleast for me.
Once Swami was outside the Hall next to the Kalyan Mantap, he
stopped and looked at two huge water tankers standing there
decorated. These tankers bore the name, Sri Sathyasai Free Water
service project.
Just to brief you on this, one of the devotees has been doing
tremendous service of pressing into service a water tanker, into
Slum areas and providing free water. He has been doing this free
water service to slum areas, for the past two years, but today he
added a second tanker to increase Seva efforts. There was no
indication of his personal name anywhere on the tanker and that is
real selfless service.
Swami was extremely happy and pleased with the devotee's seva
efforts and blessed him and his family profusely. I am told that
the devotee's son also is a student in Swami's Institution.
Swami thereafter departed for Trayee Brindavan. Prasadam was
distributed to all in the morning today.
As usual Bhajans continued throughout the day today. The singing
of Bhajans by Brindavan group consisting of dedicated male and
female singers is excellent. Many of them sang so well pouring
their heart out with love for Swami.
It was wonderful to observe that a huge number of international
devotees sat routed to their seats on the floor of the Ramesh
Hall, even after Swami had left, enjoying the bhajans and trying
to sing the Bhajans along with the Bhajan group. Many times I
wonder who is really making spiritual progress - these devoted
international devotees, or chaps like me.
Inspite of the distance, the will of Swami has pulled these
international devotees from far. And they have tuned themselves to
the spiritual call of Swami and have come all the way spending
their hard earned money, and adjusting themselves to the poor
conditions of living here in these parts. My heart melts looking
at them, putting up with these discomforts so beautifully. I
always think that they are far better devotees of our beloved Lord
than me.
Afternoon session also witnessed huge crowd turn up, and Swami
elected to come late. He arrived around 4.10 PM and sat through
the Bhajan for nearly 40 minutes. Excellent singing continued.
Swami left at 5 PM and went out through the back stage after
taking Aarti.
Thus ended a great long bhajan singing day, and devotees immersed
themselves basking in Swami's love. It is understood that the
college boys had special Trayee sessions with our Lord, both
yesterday and today. Blessed are these young Heros whom Swami
loves so dearly. How I wish I am one of them. I am only 60 years
old (approaching!).
Jai sairam.
Raja
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/1991
April 3, 2004 - Brindavan is
Alive with Swami making Devotees Happier and Happier
Sairam to all,
Saturday dawned like any other day. The only difference is that
ever since Swami arrived, there has been rain every single day at
Brindavan, even though there has not been any rain in the town.
Infact it poured on Thursday for well over one hour, immediately
after the afternoon Bhajan and all got stranded. There was a
natural excuse for everyone to run to the coffe shop !
Saturday is again a red letter day. Swami arrived earlier than
usual and was already in Ramesh Hall by 8 AM. He arrived by car
and got down at the entrance of Ladies side and walked with the
help of the teacher holding his Hand. He talked lovingly to many
of the lady devotees, before getting amidst the students who were
only too happy.
He spent a lot of time with the students, talking to many of the
students and teachers and counselling them. The students are right
now having their holidays, and most of them have not gone home
even though the Holidays have started. They want to be with their
Swami.
Thereafter Swami started walking along the center aisle and
started talking to many of the VIP devotees. He took hundreds of
letters from various devotees, both from the gents side and ladies
side. Since He has been standing for a long time, during all these
activities it was suggested to Him many a times, to get into the
car, but Swami pretended that He did not hear it. He continued the
walk, and made devotees very very happy.
There was an argument amongst couple of devotees with one devotee
stating that Swami should walk the complete hall, all around in
His usual fashion and the other devotee stating that He should
stop walking and use His car. Both got stuck with their own
theories and somebody prevailed upon them to let Swami be the way
He is ! He knows what He is doing and when He should do a
particular thing.
Today Swami walked to the end of Ramesh hall and more into the
extended portion and almost next to the Saraswathi statue. Couple
of time He gave an indication that He is going to turn around the
curve walking more to please the devotees but in the last minute
changed His mind, and decided to please His escorts by getting
into the car.
Very very slowly, he drove around in front of the Sathyasai Boys
Hostel and via the ladies side pavement to Trayee Brindavan.
Thus ended an excellent morning session, because for the first
time, many of the devotees could see Him from close, and could
talk to Him and give their letters. Swami smiled at many, created
Vibhuti for one or the other, particularly spoke to some Sikh
devotees and other international devotees, and enquired about the
welfare of some of the devotees families etc.,
The afternoon session commenced at 3.45 PM and Swami arrived
immediately as the Bhajan commenced entering through the back
stage and looking at the devotees long and lovingly, before taking
His chair. He sat and enjoyed the Bhajans which were sung
excellently well by the boys. He sat for nearly 40 minutes before
taking Aarti and leaving through the back stage.
Everyone was found to be happy. Happier than yesterday. Happier
than the morning session. Now people are excited about tomorrow,
Sunday. Will Swami come around the corner to the side aisles ?
Like Swami says "love my uncertainty", let us wait and "love His
uncertainty" which will unfold in His own time, and on His own
terms.
Jai sairam.
Raja
PS: You can register your name with the Sathyasai Book center,
Brindavan, Kadugodi PO, Bangalore - 560067, by sending a email to
mailto:srisathyasaisociety@yahoo.co.in or mailto:srisathyasaisociety@lovelyindia.com.
On registering your name, you will receive a catalogue of books
and CD-ROMs
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/1976
April 3, 2004 - Our Lord thrills
the devotees
Sairam brothers and sisters,
My apologies that I could not send this update of Friday yesterday
itself.
My ISP server is having some problem and so I simply could not
have connectivity the whole of yesterday and until now.
Well, Friday was a great day again, because our beloved Lord,
proved that He is for His Devotees ie., us. Unlike the previous
days, He came in earlier by car, but chose to get down between the
Ladies and Gents intersection from the Car and elected to walk
with the support of a teacher holding his hand. Inspite of the
pain that He must be experiencing because of the recent falls that
He had, He showed no signs of discomfort and infact started moving
faster amongst the devotees though with support. Devotees were
only too happy that our Beloved Swami was electing to walk amongst
them, and all were falling head over heals to talk to Him, to
touch Him, to give their letters etc.,
His compassion cannot be easily explained. His love for devotees
is beyond comprehension. His radiance, His bewitching smile, His
penetrating look, His side glance, His chat with selected devotees
need, a personal experience to feel the bliss that is hidden
beneath. Swami is grand. Swami proves that He has come for us.
Those who are fortunate to have his darshan right now would
readily agree with me.
There are many who do not want Swami to walk, because they know
that Swami is in pain. But many think that since He is God, he
does not feel pain. But this is not true. Swami Himself has many a
time, has stated that none of us can bear the pain which He is
going through. He had also stated that in the Human form that He
has taken, He has to necessarily follow the rules of nature. The
only difference is that Swami is not body conscious unlike us. He
is only conscious that He and We are one and the same. He looks at
Himself in everyone of us ! Are we able to do one millionth of
that ? I think we all should ponder over this in silent
introspection.
At one point, Swami told the Teacher holding his hand in Telugu,
to continue to hold the hand, but the teacher who is a non telugu
understood it differently and left the hand. So Swami jokingly
chided the teacher, to take hold of the hand once again. Everyone
laughed. The teacher knows Telugu definitely having studied in
Sathyasai University. But then, he cannot be expected to know the
Telugu the way a person born in Andhra would know.
And Swamy walked not just a little. He walked four full blocks.
Even though the car followed and the teacher every now and then
suggested that Swami get into the car, Swamy elected to walk,
making the devotees happy and happier. Then finally He got into
the car and blessing the devotees drove slowly away. Thus ended
the Friday morning session.
Friday afternoon session commenced a little earlier than previous
2 days. But even though the Bhajan started Swamy did not enter the
Ramesh Hall until almost the 6th or 7th Bhajan was going on ! Then
just for the sake of devotees He stayed on for another 10 Bhajans
almost. Then He gave a long long look, at the devotees assembled,
and then slowly went through the back of the stage.
I think everyone was very happy that Swamy walked. Everyone is
excited that Swamy is going to walk more soon. They know it, they
feel it in their blood that Swami is going to walk more and they
talk about it excitedly, and Swami is going to do it, just to
thrill the devotees.
Devotees were equally happy to get Tea and coffee and snacks that
were available in abundance at the store. Now the Sathyasai
Cooperative store has been made available to the devotees upto 12
noon, starting immediately after Darshan. The international
devotees were found to be very happy with the CD-ROMs and various
other CDs that were on display. Book shop too attracted huge
crowds.
Devotees were found to be continuing to register their names for
catalogue and CD-ROMs and I watched the demo of "My Life - My
Message" CD-ROM (Multimedia). Super creation is how I felt.
Everyone must have this CD-ROM if only to fully understand what
exactly has our beloved Baba done to mankind. It clearly spells
out what each one of us could do as Seva (service). This CD-ROM
tells you everything from beginning and has been interspaced with
Bhajans, Swami's seva projects etc., Excellent product.
I also saw the demo of "Chinna Katha" and "Life is a Game" CD-ROM.
Children of our home would love these. The parents would love
these, because of the values that are clear when you see the
CD-ROMs. This is a must to train the young minds, and also to
introspect for the older minds, so that it becomes easy to know
where lies our path ahead in the remaining years of our sojourn on
this earth.
If you have not already ordered this CD-ROM, then "do-it" is my
recommendation. After all the proceeds would go to the Sathyasai
Trust, who is doing tremendous service to lift mankind from the
clutches of evil, by the will of our Lord.
Please await the Saturday news within the next one hour. You will
have it.
Let us daily pray for the blessings and grace of our beloved
Sairam.
with sai regards
Raja
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/1974
April 1, 2004 -
Swami's Second day at Brindavan
Sairam dear brothers
and sisters,
Today being Thursday, there was more crowd as anticipated.
Devotees were found waiting in queue as early as 5 AM, and
eventually everyone settled down by 7.45 PM awaiting the pleasure
of our beloved Lord.
But today too, the Lord decided to test ? the patience of one and
all. 8.00 AM rolled by, 8.15, then it was 8.30, then it was 8.45
AM and still no sight of Swami. The Superspeciality hospital staff
left at 8.55 AM to their work stations since patients were to be
expected from 9 AM.
At 9.05 AM, suddenly the instrumental music started and there
stood Swami at the stage giving a cheerful and compassionate look
on his images sitting in front of Him.
The bhajans started, Swami sat for about 7 Bhajans before taking
Aarti and leaving. He blessed the ladies side in particular
profusely, First single abhaya and then double abhaya hasta !
Then everybody made a dash to the coffee shop adjoining the store
and the book shop, for Samosas and the like.
Afternoon seating was over by 3 PM. Swami arrived at 4.10 PM and
surprised everybody by coming in the car to the ladies entrance
side and walked from there to the stage, where He sat for nearly
30 minutes, enjoying the student Bhajans. Then once again he
looked at the vast devotees with compassion for a long time,
before walking away from the stage, after taking Aarti.
There was a good downpour as soon as Swami left. It poured for
over one hour.
That is all for today.
Sai pranams
Raja
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/1935
April 1, 2004 -
YES, Swami arrives in Brindavan
Sairam to brothers
and sisters of the sai family,
Today was an unforgettable day. Swami arrived finally in Brindavan
in His physical form, for the summer time.
There have been talk of Swami arriving on the 31st, and everyone
thought that it was unlikely because of the election fever that is
beginning to grip this region. Many said that He won't come until
around 15th April.
Each day visitors to the asram would discuss the possibilities of
Swami coming, but gradually it began to unfold from the events
that were taking place at the Asram that Swami would infact to be
expected on the 31st.
What were those events ? Well, a good facelift to the main mandir
(Ramesh Hall). Cordoning off the gardening area around the Stores
and the book shop. Painting work etc., etc., Each day these works
would progress at tremendous pace.
Then came Ramanavami on the 30th. The asram was beautifully
decorated with mango leaves and banana plants and the like and
there was a 90 minutes bhajans mostly on Rama and His Glory and
ofcourse Sairam too. Prasadam was distributed to all the devotees
and visitors alike.
It was wonderful to watch the swelling of crowds day by day and
particularly foreign devotees were beginning to arrive in large
numbers.
Then dawned the 31st. There were whispers in the air that Swami
would come by plane, would come by car, would arrive at the asram
by 7 AM (before the boys went to college), etc.,
Today(31st March), devotees were already lined up by 7 AM to have
the darshan and glimpse of our dear beloved lord.
Every 15 minutes there would be some whisper that He has left
puttaparthy, and is on his way. But by 9 AM it was evident that
Swami would not be there for somemore time. It is beautiful to see
in action, when swamy says "love my uncertainty".
There were Banners both at the Canara Bank Gate as well as the
Main gate, each one facing the opposite side welcoming Swamy to
Brindavan. Inside the Brindavan, one such big banner read "Prayerful
Welcome to Bhagavan Sri Sathya Saibaba Garu".
Then around 9 AM the pipe music accompanied by "thavil" - a type
of drum(it is called Nadaswaram music locally), began to play at
the gate. So everyone's neck was craned towards the gate looking
for Swami's car. But nothing happened.
Then someone actually turned the main gate road banner to turn
towards the railyway gate indicating that now swami is to be
expected from the ITPL side (Superspeciality hospital side).
Then there were lot of people rushing inside the Trayee Brindavan,
making others believe that Swami had already arrived via the
Canara Bank Gate whereas most of the devotees had lined up
adjoining the main entrance at the book stores area. Everyone
rushed to the Trayee Gate only to find that there is no Swami.
Then finally around 10.50 AM Swami made a grand entrance through
the main gates. There were continuous shouts of "Bhagavan Sri
Sathya Sai Baba ki Jai" as also loud chanting of "Sayeeshwaraya
Vidmahe, Sathya Devaya Deemahi" Swami was blissfully blessing
everyone sitting inside a ash colour benz car. The car was fully
covered with the flowers thrown by the devotees and the police and
other seva dal were running beside the car cleaning the front wind
shield so that the driver can see outside and the devotees can
have a glimpse of our dear beloved Lord. Lot of devotees managed
to hide the cocanuts from the Seva dal and succeeded in breaking
the cocanut in front of the car and beloved lord.
Ofcourse except for a few, most reported that they could just
catch a glimpse of the curly hair (the beautiful hair of Swamy).
And then many dispersed. But Swamy gave a big surprise.
After sometime, Swamy was found emerging on the newly built
balcony at Trayee Brindavan. The lucky devotees who refused to
leave the area and who had waited patiently were rewarded indeed
with Swamy blessing them from the balcony. There was a wonderful
shouting cheer from everyone those were present.
Then devotees dispersed. And one expected that there would be
afternoon darshan, even though no formal announcement was made.
Devotees began to arrive by 2 PM and took up their places and were
finally ushered inside the Ramesh hall by 3.45 PM. There must have
been nearly a thousand plus devotees today. However Swamy did not
come. everyone waited patiently, but it became 4 PM, 4.15 PM, 4.30
PM, 4.45 PM and even 5 PM and everyone was impatient and thought
that there is not going to be any darshan and they are going
announce cancellation of darshan any moment now.
It became 5.15 PM. There was total silence at the Ramesh Hall.
Suddenly the instrumental music started indicating that Swami is
on His way. Everyone was happy indeed.
Swamy entered through the stage gate, and Wow ! How great He
looked ! Just like Krishna - Pale blue in the face, fresh as a
rose and took tentative slow steps with some support and walked to
the Chair and the Bhajan started.
Swamy enjoyed the bhajans sung by the College boys. They must have
sung about 6 Bhajans when Swami got up, took Aarti and left
through the stage gate.
Thus ended a great day with everyone praying for wonderful days
ahead at Brindavan. Brindavan is live now - are you all able to
feel and visualise the pulse ?. It is not necessary that you
should be physically present here. With Swami, when we pass on
these messages to our brothers and sisters, it is as if Swami is
Himself taking these messages to the hearts of each and every dear
brother and sister devotee.
May all of you have wonderful Sai news in the days ahead.
with sai pranams and love
Raja
PS: At the store good number of sales was going on Multimedia
CD-ROMs of "my life - My Message", and "Chinna Katha" in
particular. There were huge enquiries for Veda casettes, CDs and
books. Many devotees were physically registering their names to
get the Books and VCD, CD-ROM catalogue list.
Incase you have not yet registered your name to receive the latest
catalogue list, please send an email to
srisathyasaisociety@yahoo.co.in or srisathyasaisociety@lovelyindia.com
and register your name. The Sathyasai Book Center and Brindavan,
Bangalore, would directly send you the catalogue and other
information through email and you can order them directly through
email.
PPS: I apologise, due to ISP problem, this mail just did not go
yesterday.
Source:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/saibabanews/message/1936
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