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Temple of Learning
The Big Day
Unquestionably,
22nd November when the Institute Convocation is held
[without fail, one might add], is a big day for students,
teachers, and also Swami. The day is marked by two important
events: While in the afternoon one witnesses a solemn convocation
ceremony embellished with great dignity, in the later part of the
evening one has a cultural show, usually a drama enacted by
students or else a musical programme offered by the students.
Every year, some eminent personality is invited to be the chief
guest for this event. The list of chief guests is replete with the
names of Prime Ministers, Presidents and other great
educationalists. For the students, it is an occasion to make a
commitment and pledge to lead their lives according to the ideals
taught to them by Bhagawan through the Institute. The students who
have topped in their respective academic courses are awarded gold
medals and certificates by Swami Himself. Every student who is
blessed with this rare opportunity cherishes this moment for the
rest of his/her life. In keeping with the Institute's policy of
integral education, there is also an award for all round
excellence in academics, sports, cultural and spiritual fields.
Bhagawan himself decides who the recipient of this rare blessing
shall be. To top it all, Bhagawan gives a Divine Benedictory
message to the graduating students, which places before them the
noble and ideal path that they ought to follow henceforth.
If
the main proceedings are marked by seriousness, the cultural
programme is when everyone relaxes. Yet, there is a purpose behind
the programme, as it conveys, always and in highly original ways,
the essence of Swami's teachings. For Swami, it is a showcase of
the talents of His students. How happy He becomes when He goes up
on the stage after the show is over, and later calls the boys to
spend time with Him behind the stage! Fleeting the moments are for
the students, but the taste lingers for eternity! That is God, and
that is how He grants experiences; short they seem but they last
for ever.
Source: Radio Sai
E-Magazine, 1st November 2003
http://www.radiosai.org/Journals/05NOV01/TemplesLearning/Kodai.htm
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