Sai Baba News

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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