Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid warm tribute to the late spiritual guru Sri Sathya Sai Baba on Wednesday, stating that his teachings and commitment to service continue to guide millions of followers worldwide. Speaking at the birth centenary celebrations of Sathya Sai Baba, Modi also unveiled a commemorative coin and a set of stamps in honour of the guru.
"Sri Sathya Sai Baba's centenary celebration is not just a festival, but a divine boon. Although Sai Baba is no longer physically with us, his love and spirit of service act as guiding forces for crores [tens of millions] of people," Modi remarked.
He noted that in 140 countries, "lakhs [hundreds of thousands] of Sathya Sai Baba’s devotees are gaining new light and direction and moving forward." The Prime Minister emphasised that Sri Sathya Sai Baba placed service (Seva) at the core of human life, making his birth centenary a celebration of universal love, peace, and service.
Modi also asserted that Seva (Service) is the central value of Indian civilisation. "All our diverse spiritual and philosophical traditions ultimately lead to this one idea, whether one walks the path of Bhakti [devotion], knowledge, or karma," he added.
Touching upon his government's various social security schemes aimed at the welfare of the poor, the Prime Minister mentioned that these initiatives are now being discussed in international forums.
Furthermore, stressing the importance of the 'local for vocal' movement, he suggested it would help the country achieve the goal of 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India).
Further, stressing on 'local for vocal,' he said it will help the country become 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India).
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, deputy CM Pawan Kalyan, cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, actor Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Sri Satya Sai Central Trust Managing Trustee RJ Rathnakar and others participated.
As part of the celebrations, Modi paid respects and his obeisance to Sathya Sai Baba at his Mahasamadhi here. The PM was given Vedic blessing by priests.
Also read: PM Modi to visit Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu on Nov 19
Follow us
