Festivals
and Events
Bhagawan Baba’s
Birthday
 On
23rd of November, we celebrate the anniversary
of the Advent of our Lord Sai amongst us. It is an opportunity
for mankind to pay homage to this embodiment of selfless love.
Millions of devotees from all over the world throng to Prasanthi
Nilayam on this day to catch a glimpse of the Divine and listen
to His illuminating Divine message.
 Bhagawan
is welcomed by a ceremonial procession consisting students
chanting Vedam and the Brass Bands of the various campuses
of Bhagawan’s educational institutions. The day’s
programme consists of talks by various eminent devotees followed
by cultural programmes by renowned artistes from all over
the world.
Excerpts from
Bhagawan’s Discourses:
“Today, thousands of people have gathered
here. What has brought them together here? Love is the main
cause. Without love, but few of you would have come from such
distant places. How does this love express itself? It is a
process of give and take. You have to receive God's love,
and you have to offer your love to Him. But, both are one
and the same love. God's love is reflected in you. That is
the meaning of the declaration in the Bhagawad Geetha: "A
spark of Mine is present in every being."
- Divine Discourse: 23 November 1996
“Embodiments of Love! You have all
come here at great expense and trouble. Make the utmost effort
to understand the spiritual basis of the "I" principle.
When you regard the "I" as the Self (Atma), you
will be free from all suffering. In case troubles come, they
will vanish like snow on a mountain. Why should you bother
about these passing clouds? When you have attained Self-awareness,
there will be no need for you to worry about anything.
Swami does not rejoice in the celebration
of birthdays. Since all of you have come for this celebration,
I am obliged to give you satisfaction. I have no wants. Whatever
I do is for your sake. Recognize this truth. I have no dislike
for anyone and no one dislikes me. All are mine and I belong
to all. My benediction is "May all be happy". Everyone
should adhere to the path of righteousness. All should manifest
their spiritual essence and experience spiritual bliss. Till
you realize that spiritual oneness, you have to perform devotional
acts like Bhajans, repetition of the name of God, and prayers”.
- Divine Discourse: 23 November 1997
“Genuine spiritual aspirants should
be particularly careful in eschewing bad company. They should
create an environment conducive to their spiritual progress
and mental peace. That is the only thing Swami wants. Having
come to Prasanthi Nilayam, all of you must become exemplary
devotees. Outsiders must feel spontaneously how exemplary
the behavior of Sai students and Sai devotees is. That reaction
will do you more good than satisfying me.
I do not relish the celebration of my birthday
or pompous decorations for the purpose. Such ostentation is
not good for anyone. Adopt a practical attitude toward spiritual
life.
With holy thoughts in you on this auspicious
day, you must go out into the world and spread your sacred
feelings among others. Don't confine your feelings to yourselves
or retain them only during your stay here. Spread them wherever
you go”.
- Divine Discourse: 23 November 1997
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