Programs
Shivarathri Celerbrations 2023
Shivarathri holds immense significance for the devoted followers of Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. In the past, devotees from all corners of the world used to gather in Puttaparthi to celebrate this auspicious day in the presence of their beloved master. Sai Anandamrutham Foundation continues this tradition by organizing grand Shivarathri celebrations. This year, the festivities took place at Sai Ranjan Kreeda Hall, Nandurkar Vidyala in Yavatmal, Maharashtra.
The Shivarathri celebration was marked by a series of programs, including Homams (fire rituals), Poojas (ritualistic worship), cultural events, Sathsangs (spiritual discourses), Bhajans (devotional singing), and Keerthanas (devotional compositions). The highlight of the event was the insightful discourses delivered by AnandaGuru himself. The program commenced at 11 AM on February 18 and continued until the next morning.
The morning began with the enchanting Nagara Sankeerthanam, performed by devotees of Kerala who expressed their love and devotion for Bhagavan in a delightful manner. The cultural programs throughout the day were filled with deep reverence and showcased the profound connection between the participants and Bhagavan. His radiant joy reflected the presence of Bhagavan in every moment of the celebration.
The Bhajan group from Maharashtra and Kerala mesmerized the audience with their soul-stirring renditions of Sai Bhajans. Two of Bhagavan's students from Puttaparthi also joined the Bhajan team, actively participating in the entire program with their beautiful and melodious songs. During the midnight session, a renowned playback singer also joined the Bhajans team, creating a soothing ambiance with his devotional renditions. Bhagavan lovingly embraced and blessed him, adding a touch of divine grace to the occasion.
The Poojas and Homams conducted by the priests and Rithwiks from Kerala and Maharashtra added a deeply divine and transformative essence to the entire event. The guided meditations during the Yaama poojas provided a sense of upliftment and inner relaxation. During the program, AnandaGuru shared a profound message with the devotees, emphasizing the importance of realizing one's true divine nature. He conveyed that those who wholeheartedly hold onto the feet of Bhagavan during challenging times will be allowed to continue the mission, while others may be replaced by a new set of devotees. In Swami's own words, "If you are resistant to transformation, there is a high likelihood of being transferred elsewhere." This served as a reminder for everyone to embrace personal transformation and remain steadfast in their devotion to Bhagavan.
The memorable event concluded the following morning with Ananda Bhojanam. Swami personally served food to all the devotees, showering them with his blessings. This act of providing nourishment to the devotees not only satisfied their physical hunger but also symbolized the spiritual nourishment and love that AnandaGuru bestows upon his devotees. It was a truly blessed and fulfilling experience for all those present.
Few memorable moments from the event.
