Says Sathya Sai Baba life is a shining example of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam
Puttaparthi:Anantapur:Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday stressed the importance of being vocal for local to transform the country into a Viksit Bharat (developed India).
Addressing devotees of Sathya Sai Baba at Puttaparthi in Sri Sathya Sai district of Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday, Modi said Baba’s teachings continue to guide lakhs of devotees across 140 countries. Modi said that the life of Sri Sathya Sai Baba is a shining example of the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and specifically remembered the tireless service rendered by the Sathya Sai Seva Dal during the Gujarat earthquake.
The Prime Minister, who was the chief guest at the ongoing centenary celebrations of Sri Sathya Sai Baba at Puttaparthi, spent nearly three hours in the town, including attending cultural programmes at the Sri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium. On the occasion, the Prime Minister released a `100 commemorative coin and postal stamps of Sathya Sai Baba to mark the centenary celebrations.
During his visit to Puttaparthi, the Prime Minister launched the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana for 20,000 girl children in Sri Sathya Sai district. He said over `3.25 lakh crore has been deposited in banks under the Sukanya Samriddhi Scheme, adding that India’s social security programmes meant for the welfare of the poor are now being discussed at international forums.
Modi said that being in Puttaparthi was both a spiritual and emotional experience for him. He described it as a divine blessing to offer floral tributes at the Maha Samadhi of Bhagawan Baba. “The centenary celebrations of Sri Sathya Sai Baba are not merely a celebration; they are a divine blessing for this generation,” he said.
Calling service the core value of Indian civilisation — Seva Parmo Dharma — the Prime Minister said this principle has upheld Indian culture for centuries. “Sri Sathya Sai Baba placed service at the heart of human life and made spirituality the foundation of human welfare,” he noted.
Referring to the significance of his donation of cows, Modi said, “In our culture, the cow is a symbol of life, prosperity and compassion.” He mentioned notable progress in the protection of Gir cows in Varanasi, Brazil and Rwanda.
Aishwarya touches feet of Modi
Boyhood star Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, another guest for the occasion and who studied at Sai Balavikas, said she continued to be inspired by baba’s spiritual notes and directions. After addressing the gathering, the actress touched the feet of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the dais, and took his blessings.
