Alumni In Action

Premabandham Issue 01 January 2013

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Sri. Sanjay Sahni Alumnus & Director, SSSIHL, Brindavan Campus

Dear brothers, Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God, said Jesus Christ. Bhagwan Baba says, students are My Property. Students belong to Bhagwan and Bhagwan belongs to them. As the monkeys ware to Sri Rama in Treta Yuga, as the gopis and gopalas were to Sri Krishna in Dvapara Yuga, so were the students to Bhagwan Baba in the Kali Yuga. The Lords advent on earth is to usher in an era of peace and bliss based on a life founded on truth and righteous living. As students of Bhagwan, we have a responsibility to align our thoughts and actions in accordance with his divine guidance and life so that we reflect his spiritual effulgence. In this endeavour, our conscience is our guide for it is verily the voice of Sai within us. Bhagwan Baba gave time and attention to students as His vision was always focused on Loka Kalyana. If you become good, the whole world stands to gain, He would tell students. To plunge into society with the divine name on our lips and the divine form in our hearts is the way ahead. Vidya and Vidya were specially dear to the Lord. To be associated and support the institutions and organisations established by Bhagwan Baba is our duty. If we seek Bhagwans intervention in our lives, we have to give Him an excuse to do so. To take His name and message and share it with others is also the need of the hour in this strife-torn world. Atmano mokshartham, jagat hitaya cha should be the guiding light for our lives. With Love Sanjay Sahni

Sri. G S Srirangarajan Alumni & Controller of Examinations, SSSIHL

On the occasion of the Annual Alumni Meet - Premabandham 2013, I wish to take this opportunity to present the following message of our Revered Founder Chancellor, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, to our alumni. It brings into clear focus, His expectations from all His students. All the students of our Institute of Higher Learning should prove themselves to be ideal human beings wherever they go. You should earn a good name from everyone...All kinds of titles are conferred on people today. But the title which all of you should aim at is that you are Amrutasya Putraha (Children of Immortality). Install God in your hearts and make Him the basis for all your actions. Then all your actions will become sacred. Bring a good name to your parents, to your society and to the land of your birth. Students! You study, get a job, get married and have children. But never forget God. Your life

is no life if you forget God. You may be a great man. You may become a Prime Minister or a President. But if you forget God you become a zero. Never give up that Supreme Principle. Take every chance to be near God. This is the main spiritual pursuit of mankind. Then only human life will be prosperous and meaningful. As alumni of the Sri Sathya Sai Institute, you have to stand out as exemplars to the world. Your conduct should be ideal and exemplary in every respect. That is what I expect from you, and this is what will give Me joy. It is not sufficient if you just study, receive degrees, join good companies and earn high salaries. Your ancestors also have earned a lot of money. But they used it through judicious and righteous means. They built shelters for passersby, dug wells, and established educational institutions and health centers. They spent their money in such righteous ways. Students! Earn money. There is nothing wrong in it. But spend it in righteous ways. Else, that very money will cause a lot of tribulations in your family. Embark on the Divine path with sincerity. You will emerge as leaders in the world. I have high expectations regarding your future. Revere your parents, serve society and protect the nation...Carry out Swamis injunctions. Earn a good name. Uphold the prestige of the Sai educational institutions. That is the gratitude you can show to Swami Develop both goodness and Godliness. Beyond these two, there is nothing greater which education can do for you. Sources:
My My My My My Dear Dear Dear Dear Dear Students, Students, Students, Students, Students, Vol.3, Vol.4, Vol.3, Vol.3, Vol.2, p.125 p.71 p.110 p.50 p.205

A Pre School with a Heart`

Furthering the cause of Educare & Value Education, youth, young adults, sai devotees & non devotees have teamed up, to establish Via Foundation (Values in Action Foundation) "Vid International" Pre-school based on the principles of * Service * Adoration * Illumination. Alumni Bro Abhimanyu Kaul has been involved with this project right since inception and interfaces with the team for the purposeful & organised functioning of this illustrious institution, which will bridge the value gap in the society it wishes to serve and cater to. Mission statements of Vid International School "A Good Student is an offering that a good teacher makes to the Nation" Teaching after all is not a profession but a mission; A true Teacher teaches the children and they learn the subject. At Vid International, little children receive their initiation into the formal learning process in a fun home away from home where they gain a sound foundation to blossom academically and appreciate human excellence. It is a nurturing environment where the seeds of human values are sown in their pure and unsullied hearts. The products of such an institution can be recognized by their spotless conduct and innocent character; adopting discipline as part of their natural behaviour is their hallmark, and their distinctive mannerisms and etiquette reflect their right upbringing and hope for a better society. Vid Inernational will formally be opening its doors in January,2013. Vid has began student enrollment and has hosted an Open House the weekend (8th and 9th, oct,2012) for potential parents/guardians to visit Vid, tour the facility, meet the teachers, and learn all about Vid' unique values-based education philosophy. Vid has already released the inaugural issue of their magazine "Educare"...bringing Values to Life, which was officially launched on Human Values Day, November 23rd, 2012 http://issuu.com/valuesinaction/docs/educere__issue_01-nov_2012 The following pages have several snaps from various activities at Vid International and the key individuals involved in the initiative.

Bro. Abhimanyu Kaul speaking............ Human Values Day , Visit to YTC Prison

Teaming Up for Sewa & Satsangh

In collaboration with the youth, young adults & leaders of the local Sathya Sai Organisation in Trinidad & Guyana, Alumni Brothers Abhimanyu Kaul, Sonam Gyamsto & Vedanarayan Sir, wholeheartedly participated in the various activities in this region. The entire Sai Fraternity can be seen having a blissful and Divine experience, reflected in the Photo Collage below during the various events. 1) National Gratitude Program 2012 2) Sai Convention 2012 3) Young Adult Intervisit between Guyana & Trinidad, 2012 4) Visit of Bro.Mccarty to Trinidad, 2012 5) Mahasivarathri Celebrations at Sai Nilayam 2012 6) Easwaramma Sports & Family Day Celebrations 2012 7) Guru Purnima 2012 8) Divine Showers Guyana 2012 9) Bal Vikas Song Festival 2012 10) National 87th Birthday Celebrations in Trinidad 2012

National Gratitude Program 2012 at Sai Nilayam

SAI CONVENTION 2012

Young Adult Intervisit between Guyana & Trinidad

Visit of Brother MCCarty to Trinidad

Mahasivarathri 2012 Celebrations Eswaramma Sport & Family Day at Sai Nilayam 2012

Guru Purnima 2012

Guru Purnima 2012

Divine Showers Guyana 2012

Bal Vikas Song Festival 2012

National 87th Birthday Celebrations in Trinidad

National Gratitude Program 2012 ( Vedanarayan Sir)

Young Adult Intervisit between Guyana & Trinidad

2012 Mahashivrathri Celebrations at Sai Nilayam

Divine Showers in Guyana 2012

Imparting Education for Underprivileged Children in Mexico Bhagawan time and again stresses the imperative need for us to serve the society we live in. There are opportunities galore for us we only have to take the initiative to accept it! Here is a small article on Sai Seva in Mexico City. In 2004 my parents visited Prashanti Nilayam. Bhagawan expressed His displeasure to them saying that I was not doing any service! I got the message and immediately started going to the Sai Centre in Mexico City to participate in Seva activities. Shortly I got the opportunity to start a new service in the outskirts of Mexico City. We started an education programme for twenty children each weekend with two teachers helping them in their studies. We also impart human values through stories, songs and silent sitting. At the end of every session we give the children some snacks. We also play and talk to them. Over three years we grew to have seventy children with six teachers looking after them. Some of the children come from underprivileged families with parents either addicted to alcohol and narcotics or from families with a single working mother. I feel that Bhagawan is providing a small oasis week for these children as we share with them all the love we can. The Lord teaches us that we do service for our own sake. If we can do it, but don't, we are missing a great chance.

Sri Sanjay Sahni Sirs UK & Europe Visit

The Sri Sathya Sai Service Organisation (United Kingdom) invited Sri Sanjay Sahni, Director of the Brindavan Campus of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (Deemed University), as the Special Guest and Keynote Speaker at their National Sai Remembrance Day programme held at Leicester on Saturday, 28th, April 2012. Sri Sahni visited UK, Switzerland, Netherlands and Italy during his two-week visit from 26th April to 14th, May 2012. The UK Sai Organisation consists of 8 regions and he spoke in almost all the regions.

On 28th April, 2012 Sri Sahni gave two talks at Leicester (Region 4). On 29th & 30th April, 2012 he was in Scotland visiting Edinburgh and Glasgow (Region 8). He interacted with devotees in both these places. On the evening of 1st May, 2012 over a dozen alumni from various batches assembled in London to interact with him. On the evening of 2nd May, 2012 he spoke at Mill Hill Sai Centre in North London (Region 3) and to a select gathering in Eastbourne on 3rd May, 2012. On 4th May, 2012 evening Sri Sahni spoke at Merton Sai Centre in Wimbledon, South London (Region 1). On 5th May, 2012 he was again the Special Guest and Keynote Speaker at the National Eswaramma Day celebrations celebrated at Hatfield in Hertfordshire, on the outskirts of London. He gave two talks and answered a few questions from devotees on this occasion. On 6th May, 2012 morning, he spoke to Sai devotees in Swindon (Region 7) and in the evening he spoke to devotees at Watford (Region 2). Sri Sahni left for Switzerland on 7th May, 2012 morning. Drawing upon his three-decade association with Bhagavan, Sri Sahni touched many a hearts with his oration of the Divine message and experiences. His wealth of knowledge amazed those who accompanied him. Not once did he repeat himself in his talks. He reminded the devotees that the Lord had come down in a Human Form because, He separated Himself from Himself to Love Himself. Explaining the significance of the 65 feet Hanuman statute in Prasanthi Nilayam, he reminded devotees of what Swami had once said to a select group of students in Kodaikanal the entire Ramayana was enacted to show to the world the devotion of Hanuman. With firm

conviction, he announced, Part II of the Sai Mission has now begun. It is destined to be a glorious mission because the Lord will now work through His devotees. He extolled devotees to join the Sai Organisation and to work in whatever capacity one can and thereby experience the presence of the Lord. He also narrated several personal experiences, from the day when he first joined the hostel in 1982, missing his favourite home dish, standing first in the University elocution competition, health issues to how he became a faculty member of the University. Devotees assembled in hundreds at every centre in which he spoke. Everybody benefitted immensely from this opportunity to listen to the glory of our Lord. Many devotees felt, there was a direct message for them from these talks. Sri Sanjay Sahni was a true Sai Ambassador. Sri Sanjay Sahni visited Switzerland, Netherlands and Italy (Rome) from 7th to 13th May,2012. His trip concluded with a Sai Students alumni (both Men and Women students) retreat in Switzerland on 12th & 13th May,2012. Many students, especially from Continental Europe and one from the Middle East availed of this opportunity. He returned to India on 14th May,2012.

Indonesian Delegation visiting University, SSSIHL, Prashanthi Nilayam - A Must Read Report

In September 2010, a Peer team from the NAAC (National assessment and Accreditation Council of India) visited the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning for assessment and re-accreditation. The NAAC team were accompanied by couple of observers from the Indonesian Govt to oversee the procedure and methodology of the accreditation process. During their brief day stay here, the two observers were extremely impressed by the unique aspects of education imparted here at the SSSIHL. Soon after their return, they got in touch with the Institute of Sathya Sai Education in Indonesia to know more.

In the month of November 2011, SSSIHL received letter of from the Directorate of Islamic Higher Education, Indonesia, expressing their desire to send a team of teachers to study the process by which value education was imparted at the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of higher Learning. They were proposing to visit two universities in India the Bombay university and the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning. They spent 5 days in Mumbai and about 3 weeks at the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, Prasanthi Nilayam. About the Participants Ten teachers (8 male and 2 females) representing different faculties (such as English, Law, Politics, education etc) from 5 different universities (Public as well as private) were part of the visiting team. They were all Muslims and the universities they were representing impart Islamic education. These universities come under the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Govt of Indonesia. The Govt. of Indonesia selected about 100 teachers from various Islamic universities to travel to different parts of world to study various aspects of University education. Two other teams were similarly touring Egypt and Australia. These teachers were selected based on their track record and their potential as future administrators of these universities.

Visit to SSSIHL During their 20 day stay here, they were exposed to the various elements of the Sathya Sai System of Integral System Education which combines the best of both Ancient Wisdom and Modern Methodology catering to all the facets of the human personality Physical, Mental and Spiritual. The administrators of SSSIHL (Registrar and Controller of Examinations) made the opening presentation which gave them a broad perspective, evolution and current standing of the SSSIHL. They were immediately able to identify the pivotal importance that the Revered Founder Chancellor, our beloved Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba has had on developing of this unique system of education and soon they wanted to know more about Him. On the second day they were shown video documentaries about Bhagawan and the innumerable projects that He has undertaken for the benefit of mankind and also the work which is being done in His name all across the world. This formed the foundation for their understanding of what they were going to experience during their visit. They spent time, over three weeks, at the Prasanthi Nilayam campus where they interacted with the Directors, Heads of departments, faculty members, visiting faculty, research scholars and students. In brief, they were acquainted with the unique features of the Institute. They attended the Thursday moral classes and the awareness class. They were shown videos about the Grama Seva program and Sports meet. They were invited to the Hostel where the senior hostel teachers showed them the Self-reliance departments and dormitory style of living. They were exposed to the important role teachers play by living in the hostel with students. They also attended the Vedam and Bhajan sessions in Sai Kulwanth Hall. They also visited the Brindavan campus (Whitefield) and the Anantpur campus (Anantpur) for two days respectively. Several questions about the philosophy, methodology and impact of this system of education were addressed in various forums and interactions during their visit.. They also interacted with the Alumni of our university in Bangalore to get a first hand knowledge about the impact of this values based education on the daily lives of the alumni. The Director General of Islamic Education, who was to visit Bangalore to be briefed prior to their departure to Indonesia drove down to Puttaparthi to gain firsthand knowledge about SSSIHL. Prof. Muhammed Ali, the head of Islamic Education in Indonesia under the Ministry of Religious Affairs was briefed by the visiting team members about their experience at SSSIHL. Some excerpts from the report entitled Lessons Learnt in Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning that they submitted to the administration are reproduced hereunder. Seeing is believing. This proverb may best illustrate our sojourn at SSSIHL. If we do not see it ourselves, we would find it hard to believe anybody telling us the story about a university which takes no fee from students, yet excels in education Our short study of SSSIHL has been a rewarding one Lesson One : Spirituality Religion that should function as a path to God has been turned to be used as a tool of oppression and legitimation of social, political, and cultural domination of narrow and short-sighted mundane interest. It is in this context that we can understand the tremendous significance of SSSIHL. By promoting the unity of religions, SSSIHL serves as a melting pot of divergent beliefs, cultures and races. During our sojourn, we witnessed harmo-

nious interaction between the people; they may have been of different beliefs and religions, but they respect each other and accept the difference. Lesson Two: Character Building Compared to other systems of education, that of SSSIHL is uniquely designed to foster the physical, intellectual and spiritual wellbeing of the students. Lesson Three: Role Modeling It is exactly this very concept of role modelling that has been practised in SSSIHL since the early stage of its inception. To be, to do, to tell is one of many phrases that encapsulate the approach to synchronize an utterance and deed. Lesson Four: Modesty coupled with Intelligence Simplicity becomes the life style. All faculty members dress up modestly in white uniform. The students in the hostel also live a simple life; sharing the room, and sitting on the floor during meal time. However, when it comes to education, SSSIHL accepts no compromise in the quality; it provides the cutting-edge multimedia facilities, ultra modern laboratory equipment, international-standard sport centre along with highly reputed faculty. Lesson Five: Compassion It is Gods grace that SSSIHL has been working hard to set an example for the people to do service to society at large. All His life, Sai Baba showed others by his graceful action that people from all walks of life need compassion, and only by compassion the man will live the life in dignity. The legacy of Sai Babas compassion can be seen in many aspects of life in Puttaparthi. During our short visit, we can feel the ambiance of compassion that emanates from our surroundings. In the hostel, around the campus, inside the ashram, and in the hotel vicinity, we find people of peaceful mind and loving thought. II Samasta Lokah Sukhino Bhavantu II

SWARAJHARI SANGEETHALAYAM - An Alumni Initiative

Swarajhari: The word Swarajhari means the flow of Swaras or Music. Music is a Divine Art. Our dear Swami loves music and he sings melodiously. By HIS divine grace & will, let this music sprout like a fountain in everybody in this world. With this strong determination endowed with Gods will; this Swarajhari is established, in the World's famous spiritual center Puttaparthy with the profound blessings of our beloved Bhagawan Sri Sri Sri Sathya Sai Baba. Its main aim is to uplift the interest and understanding in the Carnatic Classical Music from the village level to the Universal level. Sai Charan Raju & Sai Shruthi Raju are the founding members, and they belong to a family of music lovers. Sai Charan Raju has done his foundation Course in Carnatic Music (Vocal) from Sri Sathya Sai Mirpuri College of Music, Diploma in Carnatic Music (Vocal) from Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University. They have seven years experience of teaching Carnatic Classical Music. They have performed in front of Swami on special occasions at Puttaparthi. Also performed 140 classical music concerts in India & Abroad. They had the good fortune to perform at Sai Baba Temple Shirdi, Sri Krishna Temple, Guruvayoor, Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Kadiri, Anantapur, and at various other spiritual ashrams. They have performed 140 Classical Music Concerts in States like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh & Kerala etc. In districts and other places such as Hyderabad, Shirdi, Tirupathi, Bangalore, Chikballapur, Anantapur, Hindupur, Adilabad, Nizamabad, Warangal, Karimnagar, Kurnool, Guntur, Vijayawada, Bapatla, Chittoor, Kadapa, Prakasham, Anuppur, Shoranur, Palakkad in Kerala & many more in India. Also in Kualalumpur, Selayang & Rawang (Malaysia). Dr.Pattabhi Kalapeetham from Machilipatnam, A.P, India had recognized their Musical activities and presented State Level Award in the category Classical Music Service. They are versatile musicians & play other musical instruments such as Veena, Tabla, Dholak, Harmonium, Duffley and Keyboard. They perform Classical, Semi Classical, Bhajans and conducting Classical Music Awareness Programs. Thay have performed

in All India Radio as a Casual Artist. Participated in Television Classical Music Programs such as Swarasamaram by Doordarshan Sapthagiri Channel, Hyderabad & Swara Raga Sudha by Sri Venkateshwara Bhakthi Channel (SVBC), Tirupathi, Andhra Pradesh. Classical Music Recording has been Broadcasted in 70 Countries through 3zzz Melbourne Radio of Australia. Inspiration: Bhagawan is providing many comforts like water, food and shelter and other amenities. We are enjoying all these facilities, why should not we do an atom of service? With this inspiration they are proceeding with these programs. Programs: Villages are the basement to improve potency in our Independent India. For the welfare of the country it is a necessity to enhance strong foundation, good management, health, peace and happiness in the rural villages. To work towards the above goal, they are sharing the knowledge of music that they acquired to the children and the youth of rural villages as a ritual i.e., Sangeetha Mahayagna by conducting music concerts, bhajans to upraise the standard from Rural level to the Rashtra (State) level. They are organizing these programs particularly in Schools, Temples and Ashrams at the villages. Aspirations: Among all the ancient Indian arts, Classical Music is the excellent, distinguished and glorious Divine Art. Their aim is to share this wonderful South Indian music to mould everyone to feel the melody at all times through the intensive practice. They organize Classical Music Awareness workshops, meetings and concerts to create an awareness and interest on Music in the students and youth of rural villages. In the schools, music concerts will be conducted to instill concentration, memory power, time management and human values by which they can progress in their studies. By organizing music concerts, the unity among the people and the world wide could be built. To make the people realize that music cures diseases and helps to live happily with good health and peace of mind. To encourage those who have interest and enthusiasm in music and train them. In future according to the necessity, they plan to start branches in the villages, towns, cities and conduct Music competitions to encourage the students and youth. In the coming days, they intend to organize Music and Dance colleges everywhere and spread the Indian artistic prosperity and culture around the Globe. Among the Musical Activities they wish to do A monthly magazine will be pub-

lished, through which the enthusiastic artists of the villages would be brought to the light.To unite the Divine Music with the attaining of Liberation - which is the utmost goal for each and every being born on earth. Training: At present the mechanical life leads to the lack of happiness and good health. If proper training in music given their lives could be enlightened leading to golden path. Present education develops stress and strain, instability and impatience. It is better to learn music along with education to overcome the stress and strain. By learning the music the students can achieve good results in their studies. Participation: If we live for ourself it is sheer waste If we live for others it leads to God the highest Making Music as the instrument, they prepared a program called Sangeetha Mahayagnam (Sa.Ma.Yam) i.e., With everyone joining hands Music can be a ritual to achieve blissful, healthful and peaceful world. This great task is not accomplishable for one person. As the Soul combines and patronizes all the organs in the body, the rich people should include fellow human-beings with love and patronize them This is the message given to us by Pranendriya Samvadam. Any artist might have learnt any art and it is fruitful only when it is distributed heartfully (Heartfully He means God and if we include He with Art, it converts to Heart and then it becomes Divine Art) to others and then automatically everyone can experience the unique & ultimate bliss of the Soul. Propogation Maintaining a website swarajhari.org about Classical Music with an ambition to propagate and develop the interest in everyone in the world to learn & listen to Carnatic Classical Music for peace & bliss. They are doing their best for growing a network of Music Lovers, Learners & Teachers through the website, with innovative ideas. Teaching Music Online in India & to other countries such as U.S.A, Australia, Argentina, Russia, France, Canada & Mauritius. Other Projects are Voluntary School Programs & Teaching Music in Gurukula System. Purity of Purpose Music is a Divine art and by Gods will & grace we are doing all the Programs with a Goodwill and an Ambition to perform Classical (Shaasthreeya) Soulful(Atmeeya) Music World widely for Universal Peace & Harmony. Whatever money we get from the Programs, we utilize it in the orphanages for education, computer training and for making the children good future Musicians. A good & powerful project which is for the welfare of the Society & Universe gives the best Results when everyone works for it with unity & purity.

SATHYA SAI WITH STUDENTS BLOG A Unique Initiativeby the students of the Sai Publications
(A Division of Sri Sathya Sai Students and Staff Welfare Society) Swamis interactions and discourses have always been the subject of curiosity, attraction and learning; and when they are for students, the intensity increases a thousand fold! Swami considers His students as His only property and has nurtured them very lovingly and carefully for decades. He expects them to be His messengersof love, peace and service.Students too, are trying to spread the Divine Message of their beloved Mother Sai, in varied ways and according to their capacity, wherever they are. Blog History In this light, the students at the Sri Sathya Sai Hostel for Senior Students, Prasanthi Nilayam, have started a new initiative on Ganesh Chaturthi Day September 18, 2012 SATHYA SAI WITH STUDENTS: A BLOG. Managed by the students of the Sai Publications (A Division of Sri Sathya Sai Students and Staff Welfare Society), it is a potent tool for reaching out to alumni and devotees, students and youth of the Sai Organisation across the world. The Blog is a unique compilation dedicated to the most cherished moments that the students of Bhagavan were blessed to have with their Revered Founder Chancellorduring their stay at His Institute. Blog Purpose and Niche This blog is divided into five different parts focussing on five different facets of these interactions that students were privileged to have with their Sai. Our endeavour is to collate these precious memories, moments and messages, and present them to the readers in a way that the Love of Swami for His students can be understood and experienced by all through these writings. While a number of blogs and social media portals have been initiated by devotees across the globe, this blog exclusively focuseson moments with and the message of Swami with His Students. That is the niche of this initiative and clearly distinguishes it from the others.The content uploaded on this blog is based on various books published by Sai Publications and physically blessed by Bhagavan over the years. This has been done to ensure the authenticity of the content and also to provide a proper source and reference for every article/ discourse/conversation, especially at a time when many new, unheard and unverified experiences and details are emerging from various quarters which could be misguiding. Blog Content The Blog is being updated every Thursday morning (IST) with new articles on the following five themes: 1. Discourses to Students In the last three months, His Guidelines on as diverse areas as writing exams, GramaSeva, Bhajan singing, Indian culture and many others have been covered from His Discourses at the Parthi Hostel, TrayeeBrindavan and Kodai sessions of the glo-

rious yesteryears. The material is mainly based on the My Dear Students series of Discourses. 2. Experiences of Students Eminent alumni and faculty members whose articles have appeared in the Sai Nandana magazines of the last 3 decades have been shared including those of Dr. Siva Sankara Sai, Sri Srirangarajan, Dr.NageswaraRao, Dr. Deepak Anand, Brothers Shashank Shah, Sanjay Mahalingam, AmeyDeshpande, Aswath Narayan and many others. It covers authentic and first hand narratives of students with Bhagavan; experiences and instances narrated and penned by the students for Bhagavan, and read by Him in the years gone by. 3. Conversations with Students Those memorable talks with Bhagavan in the Prasanthi Nilayam portico as chronicled in the Thus Spake Sai and Bhagavan Uvacha columns of the ParthiHostel for the last 2 decades are featured under this theme. 4. Management Lessons for Students Excerpts from His Divine Discourses included in the Man Management series are shared under this theme covering diverse areas such as TQM, Marketing, Foreign Investment, Leadership, Social Responsibility, Economic Development and many more. It gives fascinating insights into contemporary corporate themes on which Bhagavan has given in-depth guidelines over the last quarter century. 5. This Day That Age This theme reminisces His glorious journeys across the length and breadth of our land for the last six decades and the subtle messages and experiences that He has given to the men and women of this noble motherland. Blog Design The blog reflects Swamis unique relationship with students in its every aspect. So, the design and colors are carefully chosen to reflect purity and clarity of the underlying theme. The photographs selected for each blog in themselves carry a different story. They are added in every article to enhance the message being conveyed and also give readers a visual treat of His glorious and glamorous form. The blog is designed to display list of articles in multiple ways e.g. newest five at the homepage, most popular posts of the week on extreme right, and theme-wise posts at the top. It has been ensured that this display of many titles does not affect readability of the article. Readers get regular automated emails whenever the blog is updated with new articles. They can avail this facility by entering their email address just once in the Follow by email box on the blog home page. The articles can also be shared on all social networking sites. Exclusive buttons have been provided to like or g+or tweet it. Blog Reach In a span of three months since the inception (September 18, 2012), the blog has achieved visibility of almost 70,000 views, which as per the blog culture and community is commendable for a non-commercial initiative. We are overwhelmed that visitors from as diverse countries as Suriname, Guyana, Niger, Venezuela, Czech Republic, Kuwait, Netherlands, Fiji and many others across continents have visited the blog. We are always eager to know what readers feel about the blog and any suggestions they want to make. Readers can express themselves through comments on every article or even send us emails at sathyasaiwithstudents@gmail.com. Many have shared their personal experiences on the blog and have enriched the reader experience. Over hundreds of comments have poured in during this short span of 13 weeks. We appeal to the Sai alumni community to popularise this blog so that the millions of Sai devotees who are very keen about knowing the unique and unparalleled relationship between Sathya Sai and His Students can access authentic and powerful information and inspiration through Messages, Experiences and Conversations of Sathya Sai With Students. This is also to prepare an online treasure house of literature on this subject for posterity. The way we have planned, by Bhagavans third Mahasamadhi Anniversary in 2014, over 400 posts rich in content and intent would be available for the world online community. This is an offering to Bhagavan from His students, to repay the gratitude for all that He has given to us. The poster-

Man Management Workshop by DMS (SSSIHL, PSN) in association with Alumni

Values-based management, and spiritual leadership are becoming a trend in modern management parlance, but it was nearly two and a half decades ago that Bhagavan had enunciated the fundamental principles of management, which He succinctly summarized as Man Management. It was in the June of 1989 that Bhagavan redefined the concept of manager, orchestrating a paradigm shift in the way we had ever conceived management as an organizational function. Since then, His philosophy of Man Management, based on the principles of Indian Ethos and Values, has been the bedrock on which the Department of Management Studies (DMS) at the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning has churned out men of character and dignity; leaders who have seamlessly integrated spirituality and business, and who have set an ideal for the society to look upon. Time and again, people at DMS have sought to introspect on Bhagavans message so that His ideals percolate deep into the hearts of the students, and they carry on the legacy left by the illustrious alumni of the department. In that spirit, it was on the 15th of September, 2012, that the department conducted a half-day workshop on the theme of Man Management. The preamble to the workshop was To reorient the students, research scholars and faculty of the Department of Management Studies to Bhagavans Message and Guidelines with reference to Man Management based on HIS Divine Discourses given to students and faculty on various occasions, right from the inception of MBA Department at SSSIHL. The solemn workshop began with vedic chants, where students invoked the blessings of Goddess Medha, the bestower of pure intellect and higher reasoning. Invoking Bhagavans presence, the lamp was lit by the Director of the Campus, Prof. A.Sudhir Bhaskar, followed by introductory remarks by the Head of the Department, Prof. R.Kumar Bhaskar. In his opening remarks, Prof. Kumar Bhaskar reminded the audience of the great fortune of being guided directly by Him, but also reiterated the great responsibility we shoulder of upholding the values that Bhagavan expects His students to follow. He expressed his gratitude to Swami for providing the environment in which the noblest values of human existence are nurtured, and also prayed for Bhagavans grace and guidance. Unique to this workshop was the participation of our alumni Sri Vikas Gupta, Sri Gunaranjan, Sri Shashidhara, and Sri Shivakumar -- who shared their work-life experiences on how they had been able to apply Bhagavans teaching in their daily lives. Sri Vikas Gupta and Sri Gunaranjan spoke briefly the need to practice values in life, reliving some soul-stirring experiences they had had both in Bhagavans physical presence, as well as His omnipresent form. Sri Gunaranjan also highlighted the slender focus of management education elsewhere, and the consequent dearth of managers who are sensitive to the needs of the society. He appealed to the students to cogitate on Bhagavans message, and channelize that inspiration into service towards the society. The workshop thus continued with a video presentation of the landmark discourse de-

livered by Bhagavan in June 1989, wherein He redefined the term manager in the form of an acronym. The relevance of Bhagavans teachings was highlighted by Sri Aman Jhaveri, Research Scholar in DMS, by drawing parallels between the message Bhagavan gave two and a half decades ago, and what leading management researchers have come to realize only recently. What Bhagavan defined as Mind of Man is researched today as the emergent field of behavioral finance and consumer psychology; Awareness of Atma, as defined by Bhagavan, bears an uncanny resemblance to the recent surge in values-based management, spiritual leadership, and spirit @ work research conducted for meeting the challenges of free markets; Nature of Nations has taken the form of investigation on emerging markets and institutional economics; multiple dimensions of Aspects of Environment are reflected in concepts such as sustainable development, triple-bottom line and green initiatives; recent developments in the studies on corporate governance form but a part of Guidelines for Goodness as prescribed by Bhagavan; Enquiry into Ethos has taken the form of culture studies and diversity in modern market economies; and finally, Role of Rules has gained importance in the form of policy research and changing role of regulatory bodies. The brief presentation was followed by Bhagavans discourse where He gave a new meaning, a new dimension to the very of definition MBA and Manager. Bhagavan started the discourse by explaining the deeper imports of the three words Masters, Business and Administration which make the acronym MBA. He explained that trading of goods and services is a narrow concept of business. Rather, business must be viewed as all the activities that we undertake throughout our lives. Similarly, administration means all work that entails right and responsibility. Master truly means mastering these philosophical principles of business and administration. Bhagavan, however, explained that to become a Master, one must first become a Manager. And then, Swami went to elucidate upon each alphabet of the word manager and its deeper meaning; M stood for Mind of Man, A for Awareness of Atma, N for Nature of Nations, A for Aspects of Environment, G for Guidelines for Goodness, E for Enquiry into Ethos, and R for Role of Rules. According to Bhagavan, if one understood the essence of these seven letters, one could manage not only resources, but anything in the entire universe. Bhagavans video discourse was followed by a panel discussion moderated by the Controller of Examination, Sri Srinivas Srirangarajan. In the candid discussion, the alumni shared their intimate encounters with ethical dilemmas, and their stories of success. Alumni interaction was interspersed with questions from students from both the Prasanthi Nilayam campus, and the Anatapur campus (attending the workshop through video conferencing). Several important aspects emerged from the panel discussion, but some were fundamental to appreciating the significance of values: The greatest incentive for following values is self-satisfaction, which in turn, is the outcome of following Bhagavans words One must do away with the false notion that following values is an easy undertaking. Contrary to that, following Dharma is often the difficult path, but it is the choice that we must make, discriminating between what Bhagavan differentiated as shreyas and preyas, that which is right versus that which is pleasant and convenient Work-life balance can be achieved by prioritizing work

Define your own parameters for success; do not go with the herd mentality of defining success only on materialistic terms Seva is not for helping someone else; it is for our own spiritual growth The difference between Seva and Office work is purely artificial; one must strive to develop the seva attitude in every work that one undertakes Seva can also be woven into ones corporate work, thereby opening up avenues for colleagues to participate in service activities Benchmark yourself against your own capabilities and not with others Work passionately, but without the expectation of rewards. That is the essence of selfless service In his concluding remarks, Dr. Shashank Shah quoted the 'The Hippocratic Oath for Managers' as prepared by the Harvard University, which serves as the professional credo for managers. He then drew parallels between what recently started in Harvard and many other B-schools of the world in terms of focus on values for managers and reminisced the story scripted at SSSIHL over a quarter century before the world woke up to the need for such an approach to Business Management. Bhagavan Baba, in His Divine omniscience emphasized the need for such a programme to groom generations of managers, who would be equipped to handle management situations and decision-making processions with a balance of the head, heart and hands. In this process, Bhagavan led from the front giving over 35 recorded Discourses (and many more which have gone unrecorded given during the Trayee sessions, interviews and Kodai trips) on various aspects of Management. Of the 6 Ms of Management money, minutes, methods, materials, machine and man, man is the most important because it is he who gives value to the other 5 Ms of Business. Dr. Shah also shared that the Man Management book would be available on amazon.com from December 2012 so that a larger world community could benefit from the same. The workshop concluded with Mangal Arathi.

University News
"His Message" "His Voice" Blog - An "Institute Awareness Team" Initiative
His Message His Voice, a series based on Swami's discourses on various themes, is conducted every Monday during the morning prayer session in the institute Auditorium. A blog with the title 'His Message His Voice' has been started by Rangarajan Sir (The Controller of Examinations) which is a compilation of theme based extracts from Bhagawans Discourses over various time periods. The intended purpose is to help the us reflect on "His Message" in "His Voice" so that we may internalize such that our lives may verily become His Message. There is an exciting quiz at the end of each topic for us to assimilate the teachings better. The blog may be used for Self-reflection and also in forums like Study circles, Workshops, etc. http://hismessagehisvoice.blogspot.in/2012/05/index-of-blog-posts.html

Index of Blog Posts

Always Speak the Truth Code of Conduct for Smiling / Laughing Significance of the Gayatri Mantra Parents are your God Who is a True Friend? Impact of Company / Association Presenting the Case for God! The Cosmic Contract! Significance of Maha Shivaratri True Spirit of Upaasanaa, Upanyaasam and Paaraayanam Human Body is like a Chariot / Vehicle Ancient Bharatheeya Culture and Traditions Spending Vacations Fruitfully - Tips for Students Significance of Yugaadi / Ugaadi (Hindu New Year) Festival Always Speak the Truth - Case Studies Lessons for Life from Ramayana The Downside of Television Guidelines on Dietary Habits - What, When and How to Eat Food - Part One Guidelines on Dietary Habits - What, When and How to Eat Food - Part Two Guidelines on Dietary Habits - What, When and How to Eat Food - Part Three Guidelines on Dietary Habits - What, When and How to Eat Food - Part Four Five Human Values Prescribed in Yama The First Step of the Ashtanga Yoga Five Human Values Prescribed in Niyama - The Second Step of the Ashtanga Yoga

Three Vagaries of the Mind - Mala,Vikshepa and Aavarana Four Defects of the Antahkarana (Inner Instruments) - Braanthi, Pramaadam, Karanaapaataanaa and Vipralipsa Unity of Religions Part-I: Introduction to Religion Unity of Religions Part-II: Diversity in Religion Unity of Religions Part-III: Principle of Oneness - Common to all Religions Unity of Religions Part-IV: There is only One Religion, the Religion of Love; There is only One God and He is Omnipresent Unity of Religions Part-V: Respect all Religions-Never criticize any Religion Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba and the Sri Sathya Sai Organization (SSSO) - Part-I Genesis and Management Model Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba and the Sri Sathya Sai Organization (SSSO) - Part-II Emphasis on No connection between SSSO and Money Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba and the Sri Sathya Sai Organization (SSSO) - Part-III Discipline The undercurrent of all activities in SSSO Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba and the Sri Sathya Sai Organization (SSSO) - Part-IV Love-ServiceSacrifice The Three Pillars of the SSSO Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba and the Sri Sathya Sai Organization (SSSO) - Part-V Expected Profile of SSSO Members Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba and the Sri Sathya Sai Organization (SSSO) -Part-VI Ten Directives for SSSO Members Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba and the Sri Sathya Sai Organization (SSSO) - Part-VII Concept of Ceiling on Desires Ashta Pushpam -The Eight Flowers to be offered to God Talk less Work More - Observe Silence ABC of Life Always Be Cheerful Pleasure is an Interval between two Pains - Part-I - Underlying Philosophy Pleasure is an Interval between two Pains - Part II - Simple Prescriptions

Some of the blog posts in the Sai Students Portal

Sairam all, posted a new blog post on His Message His Voice http://hismessagehisvoice.blogspot.in/2012/10/ashta-pushpam-eight-flowers-to-be_21.html7 It is about the eight flowers that Bhagawan expects us to offer at His Lotus Feet. Flowers that never dry away or fade away like the worldly flowers.
By: Awareness Team

Sairam all, Check out our new post on importance of silence: http://hismessagehisvoice.blogspot.in/2012/10/talk-less-work-more-observe-silence.html Don't miss the discourses of Swami in his own voice. The audio files from this post onwards won't require quick time player.
By: Awareness Team

sairam all, Our latest blog post is on the theme The ABC of life- Always be Cheerful. http://hismessagehisvoice.blogspot.in/2012/11/abc-of-life-always-be-cheerful.html
By: Awareness Team

Pleasure is an interval between two pains. This is a phrase Bhagawan has used so often in His Discourses to drive home the fact that we live in world that is dual. It is impossible to get joy without sorrow or profits without loss. Duality is the very nature of this creation. It is not without reason that Bhagawan states, Pleasure is an interval between two pains and not Pain is an interval between two pleasures. This conveys the truth that life is essentially full of difficulties and challenges. That is why Lord Buddha too, after all his spiritual investigations, came to the conclusion that Sarvam Dukham Dukham, Sarvam Kshanikam Kshanikam Everything is sorrow and ephemeral. But then, what is life all about? The goal of life is to transcend these opposites and acquire bliss which is permanent and everlasting. Bhagawan gives us several prescriptions about how to lead our life in this world of duality and how to go beyond the opposites. Check out our new post on Pleasure is an interval between two pains: http://hismessagehisvoice.blogspot.in/2012/11/pleasure-is-interval-between-two-pains.html
By: Awareness Team 23 hours ago

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Prerana The Divine Inspiration

Here's a write up, which the Awareness Team of our University posted on the Sai Students Portal regarding the "Prerana" initiative. We also had some interesting threads in the Portal, on topics like 'Fighting Corruption in daily life' and Managing people at work place'. We are including the portal links. Offering our Self at Bhagavans Lotus Feet Dear Brothers, Please receive our warm love and regards. Prerana, an initiative of the Awareness Team @ SSSIHL, aims at bringing home to our students the rich experiences of our alumni, so that the young minds can draw inspiration from their senior brothers and eventually translate this inspiration into action. A life anchored in values is Student. Every aspect of our designed to make us underues. But as Bhagavan has again, understanding alone understood in the classes tice in the world outside. the hallmark of a Sai educational system is stand the value of valexplained time and is not enough; what is has to be put into prac-

The Awareness Programme @ SSSIHL is one such forum, or a laboratory of social learning, where students explore the challenges of life, and receive guidance on how they can implement the values they have imbibed in Bhagavans institutions. Prerana The Divine Inspiration Students often raise this point in the classes: Sir, it is easy to talk about values in the classroom, but in real life it is difficult to practice. Can you give us an instance where our students have really faced these situations and acted according to Swami's dictates? We

thought that instead of us narrating experiences to students, it would be much more effective if students could directly receive these experiences from our alumni. First-hand experiences of success and challenges faced would have a far-reaching effect and credibility than someone else narrating them. That is why we want to hear from the alumni about how they have been successful at putting into practice what they have learnt in this institution. How does the Prerana initiative work? On the 21st of every month, the Awareness Team will update the Sai Students Portal with specific topics and issues of concern such as Ethical Dilemmas at Workplace, Fighting Corruption, Dealing with Difficult People, etc. Based on the topics, we would like to hear from the alumni their experiences in detail, narrated broadly under the following categories: What was the problem you faced? What was going on in your mind while you were facing the problem? What decision did you take? What motivated you to act the way you did? What was the outcome? The narrations need to be succinct, to the point. There are some important caveats that we wish to bring to everyones notice with regard to narration of experiences. First, the experiences need not be flowery-talesof-instantsuccesses. We leave it to each individual to define success the way they want to. For some success may be getting recognition for the courage they have shown, for some success may be tangible rewards, sometimes success may be about transforming others, while for many success is about satisfying their own conscience. Therefore, please articulate clearly your learning and your definition of success in all the narrations. Second and very important is that we all know that following values is not going to be easy. Those who have displayed such courage will have to face several difficulties and hurdles: pressures from family and peers, monetary, professional or personal losses, social mockery, temptations to take the easier path, and much more. Mention clearly all the difficulties, if any, you faced, because the students must know that following the path of Dharma will not always be easy. This is only to prepare the students to meet the challenges of life with greater fortitude. The Awareness Team will be actively tracking the Portal, and relevant experiences of the alumni will be shared in the classes. Eventually, we propose to record these experiences on video, each being around 10 12 minutes. To that end, we will personally contact the alumni, set up a meeting with them, and record their experiences. These clippings will be archived and will be shown to students on different fora such as the induction program or the Awareness course. It is our hope that these interactions will enrich our understanding (teachers, students, and alumni) of what Bhagavan expects from each one us. Prerana is a forum where all of us can share valuable lessons of life with the younger generation so that each student passing out from the portals of this hallowed institution is prepared to meet the challenges of the world, and lead a life that Bhagavan expects from His students. Looking forward to some enriching and thriving contributions We pray to Swami for His grace, inspiration, and guidance. Sairam

The Awareness Team Prasanthi Nilayam Campus: Faculty - Prof. Kumar Bhaskar, Sri Srinivas Srirangarajan, Dr. Jagadeshwar Rao, Dr. B.S. Vijay Kumar, Dr. Deepak Anand, Sri Sai Shyam, Sri A.S. Vishwanathan Research Scholars - Dr. Shashank Shah, Sri Ameya Deshpande, Sri S. Sai Giridhar, Sri Sai Manohar, Sri Bhabani Shankar, Sri A Sunil, Sri Aman Jhaveri Brindavan Campus: Faculty - Sri Sanjay Sahani, Dr. N. Sivakumar, Sri Ruchir Desai, Sri Rajiv Rajan Following are the links to these pages in our Sai Students Portal Prerana introduction page: http://portal.saistudents.org/pg/pages/view/403017/preranathe-divine-inspiration Fighting Corruption in daily life: http://portal.saistudents.org/pg/pages/view/403726/fighting-corruption-in-daily-life Managing people @ work place: http://portal.saistudents.org/pg/pages/view/404592/managing-people-workplace
Bro. Manoj Kumar Gautam' s comment on the Pprtal

Loving SaiRam to All ! This is indeed a noble endeavor and will certainly help our younger brothers in understanding and appreciating how Bhagawan's teachings and the value system have helped many of us in the Outside World. All of us have faced many such dilemma and difficulties, small or big. And its Bhagawan's teachings that have been instilled in our heart, have successfully sailed us through. I too was faced with the dilemma of flowing with the current or moving out of it, in one of my earlier jobs. It was question of supporting the corrupt practices that have become part of the system. Any idea or voice of change was resisted with "it has been done this way in the past and we needs to followed". Choice for me was the Career Growth (initial year of my career) or Principles close to my heart. Tough decision though, I chose the second. Yes, I had tough times that followed. But the strength that Swami had bestowed sailed me through. My conscience was clear on what path I chose....and the conviction grows stronger every day. Sai Ram!
Bro. Sai Krishna N comment on the Portal

Om Sri Sai Ram, At the very outset I am very pleased and happy to know that Prerana is finally into action.For many days(a month) I literally wanted to speak to some of my seniors or faculty members of our university, but since lack of time or something, I couldn't. Now with this prerana forum, I wanted to share one ethical dilemma which I am right now undergoing. and please brothers I really don't know, if my step is right or wrong. I am doing my internship in one company along with two other classmates of mine. The company is offering stipend of Rs.10,000 along with reimbursement of all the expenses which were incurred by us. We were asked to go to chhattisgarh and do the market scan, for which they deposit money in advance into our accounts. For every 10 days we are supposed to show the expenses list so that they would deposit the advance money. Company put a limit on each person that, per day we cannot cross Rs.1600. Now the big problem is, my classmates thought they spend Rs.1000, they put extra bills and show it as Rs.1600 or almost around that figure. i didnt want to do all this. but when we need to show accounts, all three of ours should be similar(approximately). I tried telling them to not to do this way, as this is very unethical. but they are attracted towards the money and went upto the extent of buying new bill books and stamps and created duplicate bills. I was sincerely praying HIM. as I can't do the way how they were doing, nor I can follow them.

so I thought this way," look friends, I came from home with Rs.9600. So before I leave this company I want to have Rs.10000(stipend)+ 9600( money which I got from home), that's it and nothing at all". So right now I am in the last stage of my internship. Those two friends of mine already collected Rs.22,000 extra. I don't know if my step was right or wrong, but I feel that in this way atleast I am not involved in any unethical issue. but I feel bad that I am unable to persuade them and get them into right track. BROTHERS, I need some answers and suggestions on this . Please help me out.
Bro.Sai Madhukar Ragu's reply to Sai Krishna

@Sai Krishna, To put human values into practice is tough, even for Sai Students. But, all it needs is practice. you did a great job by sticking to ethics. Hope more of our guys share such real life incidents to inspire each other and live upto Swami's expectations. Swami will be proud of you surely.

Some of the other Learning points of Alumni

University Website Initiative

SSSIHL launched its redesigned website http://sssihl.edu.in/ on the 19th of September 2012 on the auspicious occasion Ganesha Chaturthi. The website highlights the vision and philosophy of our Revered Founder Chancellor for the university and the steps which are being taken to live that philosophy. A new section on integral education has been added which enunciates how SSSIHL combines academic competence with the development of good character, noble attitudes and values, social sensitivity and spiritual awareness in all students.

There is also an alumni page which helps us to discover the impact which this system of education has on our personal and professional lives. It will also report the different activities undertaken by the alumni all over the world. A number of expansion plans in terms of the website (for the alumni and other sections) are in the pipeline for 2013.

For any feedback and suggestions regarding the website please write to: info@sssihl.edu.in

ADMISSION NEWS OF OUR UNIVERSITY (SSSIHL)

The Admission of eligible candidates for various courses offered by Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher learning (Deemed to be University) is open. The details are available at http://sssihl.edu.in/sssuniversity/Admissions.aspx. Do share the details within the Sai Community & outside.

XXXI Annual Convocation Of SSSIHL A Report

The 31st Annual Convocation of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (Deemed to be University) was held in the Divine Presence at Sai Kulwant Hall, Prasanthi Nilayam on Thursday, 22November 2012. The convocation ceremony was held in the morning between 11.00 a.m. and 12.30 p.m. In the evening session, which commenced at 5.00 p.m., the Sai Krishna award for Excellence in Research & Teaching was followed by the annual convocation drama, performed by the students of the University, which concluded at 7.30 p.m. Given below are highlights of the days proceedings.

The Annual Convocation This year, the ceremonial procession entered Sai Kulwant Hall at 11.00 a.m. It included the chief guest, Dr. Anil Kakodkar, Homi Bhabha Chair Professor, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre and former Chairman, Atomic Energy Commission of India, Prof. J Shashidhara Prasad, ViceChancellor, former Vice-Chancellors, Members of the Board of Trustees, Board of Management and Academic Council. The procession was led by the Institute brass band followed by two students car-

rying the Institute Standards on either side of the Registrar, Dr.Naren Ramji who carried the Ceremonial Mace. The Vice-Chancellor sought the blessings of the Revered Founder Chancellor, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba and the Registrar, formally welcomed the chief guest by garlanding him. The proceedings of the Convocation began with chanting of Vedic hymns by a group of students. Thereafter, the Vice-Chancellor prayed to the Revered Founder Chancellor, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba to declare the Convocation open. The convocation was declared open in Bhagawans voice. Vice-Chancellors Introductory Speech Offering salutation at the Lotus Feet of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the Vice-Chancellor observed that the presence of Bhagawan could be felt at this function as His children prepared to leave the portals of the hallowed Institute founded by Him, carrying His message of love into the world. He then offered a warm and affectionate welcome to the chief guest, Dr. Anil Kakodkar.The Vice-Chancellor then highlighted the progress made by SSSIHL in the preceding academic year (2011/12). This included new infrastructure (extension buildings and living spaces in the Prasanthi Nilayam and Anantapur campuses), new academic programmes and the commencement of SSSIHLs fourth campus at Muddenahalli, Karnataka. View Photos/Slideshow http://www.sssbpt.org/images/xxx1convocation_1.swf He highlighted the collaborative research between SSSIHL, SSSIHMS and Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA for better diagnosis for patients with fatal diseases and also the new Chondrocyte Cell Culture Lab at SSSIHMS. The latter will explore the possibilities of chondrocyte cell culture in treating knee cartilage defects, thus helping patients avoid joint replacement surgeries and the symptoms and costs associated with it. He then highlighted key statistical facts of the university such as the Student-Teacher Ratio at SSSIHL of 8:1 (compared to 30:1 for A grade Institutions in India), year-on-year increase of research publications and the growing qualifications of the teaching faculty (over 60% of all teachers at SSSIHL now have a Ph.D.). Highlighting the Summer Course in Indian Culture & Spirituality (in June 2012), the Vice-Chancellor reiterated how the Institute continues its best efforts in imparting values-based Integral Education to students (as conceived by Bhagawan Baba) along with developing their academic excellence. Degrees and Gold Medals to Graduands Following the Vice-Chancellors introductory speech, Sri G S Srirangarajan, The Controller of Examinations, presented the graduands to the Revered Chancellor, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba for the award of degrees and the Vice-Chancellor administered the convocation pledge to them. Gold medals were thereafter presented to meritorious students. This year, 457 students were awarded degrees, 22 students were awarded gold medals and three research scholars were awarded doctoral degrees. SHEFALI RAMPAL

SHEFALI RAMPAL TARUN BHARADWAJ AMAN JHAVERI http://www.sssbpt.org/images/xxx1convocation_2.swf Chief Guests Convocation Address Delivering his convocation address, the Chief Guest, Dr. Anil Kakodkar stressed that this institution has a strong spiritual basis and social foresight that enables students to remain rooted in India and her value system even as the students scale new heights in terms of higher education. He congratulated the graduands and advised them to become a part of the nationbuilding process as education empowered them to be a major constructive force to propel inclusive growth of the nation as a whole. Referring to the challenges facing the nation, Dr. Kakodkar cautioned that fast economic growth should also reduce the disparity gap lest it should cause frustration in youth which might be difficult to contain. Elucidating on a new education paradigm shift, the distinguished speaker emphasised the need for creating a holistic learning environment, (making education student-centric) and quick translation of new knowledge for moving towards a better quality of life. Research in universities, he said, should aim at pushing frontiers of knowledge as well as evolving technologies for all-round development. He urged students to retain the spirit of trusteeship and contribute substantially to their roots, the society around, the institutions that brought them up and the nation at large. It is this spirit of trusteeship, he said, and the desire to support others who were not as fortunate or successful as us that makes this world a better place. Revered Founder Chancellors Benedictory Address This was followed by the Benedictory Address of the Revered Founder Chancellor, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, who emphasised that only Sathya and Dharma had the power to protect the world. He advised students to realise the sacredness of the culture of Bharat, serve society selflessly and earn a good name. Stating that students are His only property, Bhagawan told them that education was not merely for a living but for life. Lakhs of students, Bhagawan said, received degrees every year, but what students should ac-

ANNETHARAJ

quire is the degree of Educare, and manifest their innate divinity. The Divine Benediction, followed by the national anthem and arati, marked the end of the 31st Annual Convocation ceremony. http://www.sssbpt.org/images/xxx1convocation_3.swf The Sai Krishna Award for Research and Teaching The evening session commenced with the annual Sai Krishna Award for Research and Teaching Awards ceremony, which has been instituted to recognize and honour the top researchers and teachers of SSSIHL each year. The awards alternate between top researchers and top teachers every year. It consists of a certificate, a memento and a cash award of Rs.25,000. This year, the awards recognized excellence in teaching. Sri G S Srirangarajan, The Controller of Examinations, was the master of ceremonies. He explained that Bhagawan Baba compared teachers to the overhead tank and students to taps. In a valuesbased integral education system like SSSIHL, the role of the teacher is more than teaching, research and associated administrative responsibilities. It extends beyond the walls of the classroom and demands the teachers time and attention for the all-round personality development of the students in the physical, mental, intellectual, emotional, psychological and spiritual domains. The recipients of the 2012 awards for best teacher, one each from the Anantapur Campus, Brindavan Campus and the Prasanthi Nilayam Campus, were selected based on a comprehensive evaluation of their performance in teaching, mentoring and participation in the co-curricular activities of our integral education system. Honourable Justice A P Misra, former Judge of the Supreme Court of India, and member, Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (Public Charitable Trust) then gave away the awards. The awardees were: Anantapur Campus: Ms. U. Suma, Asst. Professor, Dept. of Commerce Brindavan Campus: Sri Ruchir Desai, Associate Professor, Dept. of Commerce Prasanthi Nilayam Campus: Dr. R. Gowri Shankar, Asst. Professor, Dept. of Physics Divya Yatra: Convocation Drama This was followed by the Annual convocation drama, presented by the students of SSSIHL. The drama this year was entitled, Divya Yatra (Divine Journey). The drama used the metaphor of a trains journey to depict the life journey of a man. The opening scene showcased passengers boarding a train compartment from the City Station and ultimately reaching the station of Shanti Kunj (abode of peace), halting en route at Daulat Nagar (city of wealth), Parivartan (transformation) and Imtihan Ganj (stage of test). Each station (and the plots and sub-plots between them) symbolised the various tests (in the form of worldly temptations) a man would typically face on a spiritual journey and how he would have to transcend them (the temptations) if he were to attain su-

preme peace, the ultimate goal of mans earthly journey. The drama highlighted the teachings of Bhagawan that man should have less luggage and more comfort i.e. we must shed the luggage of our desires in order to make the journey of life comfortable. In conclusion, it portrayed that those who had full faith in God could reach their final destination which was no other than Sri Sathya Sai Prasanthi Nilayam. The presentation included flashback episodes from the lives of Rama, Krishna and Jesus. Realistic depiction of a train journey (including a set with a train, a station and related props), excellent acting, prompt stage management, appropriate songs and good direction made the drama an impressive presentation. At the conclusion of the drama, gifts were presented to the participants. This was followed by Bhajans and distribution of Prasadam. Bhagawan singing the Bhajan, Prema Mudita Manase Kaho Rama Rama Ram was followed with Arati at 7.30 p.m. II Samastha Lokah Sukhino Bhavantu II sourced: http://www.theprasanthireporter.org/2012/11/xxxi-annual-convocation-of-sssihl-a-report/ From the ARCHIVES