Follow ideals of Sathya Sai, says PM

Visakhapatnam: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba's message transcends boundaries of time and place. Addressing the birth centenary celebrations of Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba at Puttaparthi the Prime Minister said his teachings of compassion, service and universal love continue to guide people across the world. He said everyone must continue working for the welfare of society, following the ideals of Sri Sathya Sai Baba.

The Prime Minister began his speech with Sai Ram and expressed that being present among all in the sacred land of Puttaparthi was an emotional and spiritual experience. He said he had the opportunity to offer floral tributes at Baba's Samadhi. Modi highlighted that bowing at Baba's feet and receiving his blessings always fills the heart with deep emotion.

Underlining that the birth centenary year of Shri Sathya Sai Baba is not merely a celebration for this generation, but a divine blessing, Modi noted that although Baba is no longer present in physical form, his teachings, his love, and his spirit of service continue to guide crores across the world. The Prime Minister highlighted that in over 140 countries, countless lives are moving forward with renewed light, direction, and resolve.

The Prime Minister paid homage to Sri Sathya Sai Baba at the Sai Kulwant Hall, Prasanthi Nilayam, and then proceeded to Omkar Hall for Darshan. He said that being in these sacred spaces is a reminder of Sri Sathya Sai Baba's boundless compassion and lifelong commitment to uplifting humanity. He added that Sri Sathya Sai Baba's message of selfless service continues to guide and inspire millions.

Underlining that the nation is moving forward with the spirit of 'Kartavya Kaal' towards a developed India, and achieving this goal requires active citizen participation, Modi emphasised that the birth centenary year of Shri Sathya Sai Baba is a major source of inspiration in this journey. He urged everyone to strengthen the mantra of 'Vocal for Local' during this special year, noting that promoting the local economy is essential for building a developed India. The Prime Minister reminded that purchasing local products directly empowers a family, a small enterprise, and the local supply chain, paving the way for an Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Acknowledging that all present, inspired by Shri Sathya Sai Baba, are continuously contributing to nation-building, Modi observed that this sacred land truly possesses a unique energy'where every visitor's speech reflects compassion, thoughts reflect peace, and actions reflect service. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that wherever there is deprivation or suffering, the devotees will stand as a beacon of hope and light. With this spirit, he concluded by extending heartfelt greetings to the Sathya Sai family, institutions, volunteers, and devotees across the world for advancing this sacred mission of love, peace, and service.

Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh N Chandrababu Naidu, Union Ministers K Rammohan Naidu, G Kishan Reddy, and Bhupathi Raju Srinivasa Verma and AP Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan were present. Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar and actress Aishwarya Rai were cynosure of all eyes.

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Modi released a Commemorative Coin and a set of Stamps honouring the life, teachings, and enduring legacy of Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The Prime Minister also participated in the Gaudan ceremony organised by the Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust, which has undertaken several noble initiatives, including significant work in the field of animal welfare. As part of the ceremony, farmers are being given cows, including Gir cows.

The Prime Minister highlighted that Brazil has adopted India's Gir and Kankrej cattle breeds and advanced them through modern technology and scientific management, making them a source of superior dairy performance. He remarked that such examples show how tradition, compassion, and scientific thinking together transform the cow into a symbol of faith, empowerment, nutrition, and economic progress. He expressed happiness that this tradition is being carried forward here with noble intent.

Union minister Nitin Gadkari accompanied by AP Minister Kandula Durgesh, former minister Palle Raghunatha Reddy and other leaders visited Prashanti Nilayam to attend birth centenary celebrations of Sai Baba on Thursday.