Annual Report of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations- Tamilnadu 1.1. Foreword by The State President- TN. Spiritual wing 2.1. Sadhan Camps 2.

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1 S.NO. 1.1 Particulars Foreword by The State President- TN Page.No. 1 2 Spiritual wing 2.1 Sadhan Camps Bhagwan's 90th Birthday Celebrations EHV Programs SSSBPT-TN Radio Sai initiative in Tamil Saptagam Unity of Faiths 23 3 Service wing 3.1 Prasanti Seva Medical Camps Sri Sathya Sai Mobile Hospital unit-tn Reach Out With Love Disaster Management Programs Skill Schools and VTC SSSVIP- Agri Initiatives Information Technology Initiatives Chennai Relief Works- Gratitude Program 61 4 Educational wing 4.1 Qunatitatie Info reg. Balvikas Qualitative info reg. Balvikas 65 5 Miscellaneous 5.1 Activities at Sundaram Activities across the State TN Alumni news Sai Schools Sri Sathya Sai Trust- Tamilnadu Conclusion 125 1

2 Foreword by The State President- Tamilnadu: The Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation was founded in the 1960s by Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba to enable its members to undertake service activities as a means to spiritual advancement. The Sathya Sai Organisation derives inspiration, guidance and strength f o Bhaga a Ba a s issio a d essage of p opagati g the t uth of a s i he e t di i it, hi h is p o lai ed a d p ea hed all religions of the world. In consonance with this truth, the Organisation has as its main objective selfless love and service and is exemplified by the activities and service projects undertaken by the e e s of the o ga izatio. It s a hu le atte pt to ollate the olossal o k do e the members of the Sri Sathya Sai organization, Tamilnadu which has given an opportunity to revisit, ruminate and revise our approach towards the projects undertaken with an objective to place our wholesome efforts at the Divine Lotus feet of our Beloved Bhagwan. Statistical Information: A. B. C. CENTERS Total Numbers Total No. of members SAMITHIS BHAJAN MANDALIS TOTAL Total Numbers Total No. Attended DEVOTIONAL SINGING UNIT COMMUNITY BHAJAN CENTER / BHAJANS HELD SEVEN HOUSEHOLD BHAJAN NO. OF CLUSTER / HOUSES / BHAJAN HELD NAGAR SANKIRTAN STUDY CIRCLES CONFERENCE / RETREATS SADHANA CAMPS Total Numbers Total No. of Students SPIRITUAL ACTIVITIES EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES BALVIKAS CENTERS : (i) URBAN BALVIKAS CENTERS : (ii) RURAL BALVIKAS CENTERS : (iii) SCHOOL BALVIKAS CENTERS : TOTAL (i+ii+iii) BALVIKAS GURUS: B.V. GROUP 3 EXAM PASSOUTS YEAR

3 D. SERVICE ACTIVITIES VISIT TO: Total Numbers Total No. of Beneficiaries SERVICE CAMPS VOCATIONAL TR. CENTERS FREE COACHING CENTERS MEDICAL CENTERS NATIONAL NARAYAN SEVA BLOOD DONATION CAMPS LEPROSY VILLAGE CORRECTIONAL HOMES ORPHANAGES DISABLED / OLD AGE HOMES HOSPITAL CAMPS: NARAYAN SEVA VETERINARY CAMPS MEDICAL AWARENESS CAMPS EYE CAMPS BLOOD GROUPING CAMPS SANITATION (PUBLIC URINALS) DENTAL TREATMENT CAMPS E. STATISTICAL DATA NO. OF SLUMS / VILLAGES ADOPTED ADOPTED UNDER SSSVIP NO. OF BENEFICIARIES CURRENT PERIOD SSSVIP BENEFICIARIES NO. OF SEVADALS GENTS: GENTS: 1484 MAHILA: 1116 TOTAL: 2600 NO. OF SECURITY SERVICE 643 TRAINED SEVADALS (P.S. Members) NO. OF REGISTERED YOUTH GENTS: GENTS: 2813 MAHILA: 2625 TOTAL:

4 F. YOUTH ACTIVITIES Veda Recitation & Bhajan Training Class: Youth Study Circle: Summer/Winter Course on Indian Culture & Spiritual: Awareness Programme involving local Schools/Colleges: NUMBER CONDUCTED NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS Gents Mahilas Total Gents Mahilas Total Gents Mahilas Total Gents Mahilas Total Disaster Management Programs Gents Mahilas Total 2.1 Sadhana Camps: The state of Tamilnadu has been given the opportunity to perform Parthi Seva thrice in a calendar year. March 15th to March 31st, May 1st to May 15th and from October 15th to November 15th. The state conducts a series of Sadhana camps exclusively for the sevadals who have volunteered to do Parthi Seva prior to the Parthi seva period every year in all the Sai districts of the state. The camps are organised separately for gents and mahila sevadals in each of the Sai districts in Tamilnadu. Objective of the Training / Sadhana Camps: To emphasise the importance of Parthi Seva. To explain the various service opportunities and requirements at different duty points and / or sectors. To elaborate the rules and regulations to be followed by the volunteers during the period of Parthi seva. To encourage the new devotees/ members/ youths to take part in the Parthi Seva. Observation: Around 70%-80% of the sevadals who attend the sadhana camps do enrol and participate in the Parthi Seva. Around 20%-30% of the sevadals are new but are briefed regarding the type of work, rules and regulations to be followed, discipline to be pursued during the period of seva. The newly trained sevadals should be positively embraced into our organisation as that would support in the growth of our organisation in the long run. As many of the old timers are unable to attend Parthi Seva due to their illness, ageing and family compulsions, we got to give the new comers opportunity to serve our Bhagwan at His abode. 4

5 Together forever- A unique program for Mahilas: On 31st Ma, a p og a e titled Togethe fo e e, desig ed e lusi el fo the Mahilas as o du ted at Villupu a. The ai o je ti e of the p og a as to e ou age the Mahila Vi ag s participation in the various seva and spiritual activities undertaken by the organization. Emphasis was laid to invite and induct new members, educate them the significance of selfless service u de take to efi e the a d e o e o th i st u e ts of Bhag a s lo e. This program was attended by more than 100 mahilas form various adjacent districts. The District presidents of Salem, Madurai and Villupuram gave inspiring presentations on various relevant topics- Ele ati g ou self, O e ith ai, Attitude akes the diffe e e. A Q&A session on spiritual topics was handled by the State Vice President- Sri.K.R.Suresh, through SKYPE which made the session even more interesting and innovative way of approaching the su je t. The e ue ies e e a s e ed ith suita le a e dotes a d i ide ts fo a i s life a d message. The program concluded by taking an oath by Mahilas to offer themselves at the altar of the Bhagwan and become His catalyst in His mission. Apart fro the a o e, 2016 at Thirunagari. e had o du ted the Distri t preside ts eet o th and 7th February Objective: The basic purpose of the meeting is to provide a platform for reviewing our ongoing activities and also lay foundation for our future course of actions. In order to pursue these goals the meet will focus on the three broad areas a) Review - where we discuss our past activities, put forward reports, etc. b) Revise incorporating new initiatives to be undertaken by the State and Districts. c) Refocus calibrating our resources and talents to successfully implement new projects. The two day intensive sadha a a p fo the DP s o e ed a ious topi s su h as NNP, VTC, Disaster management, SSSBPT, Prasanthi seva, Sri Sathya Sai Spiritual awareness program, Medical wing, Educational wing, Reach out with love programs (Sai Rehabilitation Program), IT initiatives and the mobile hospital seva. Each of these topics was discussed in detail, deliberated on our approach and devised new plans/ methodologies to further fortify and intensify our efforts. 5

6 . Bhag a s th Birthday Celebrations: Sundaram: The 90th Birthday celebration of the Poorna Avatar Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba Varu was celebrated at Sundaram, His abode in Chennai as a ten day festival. Sundaram, the epitome of beauty seemed even more beautified with colorful floral decorations, glittering lights and aesthetic decorative which made the ten day event even more memorable. The ten day festival began on the dawn of 14th November with Omkaram, suprabhatham, and nagarasankeertan followed by nadaswaram recital and hoisting of Prasanthi flag in the morning and the evening session began with the lighting of the akhanda jyothi by Honorable Justice Sri. Rajendran in commemoration with the 24 hour Global Akhanda Bhajan in which thousands of Sai devotees participated and the whole event seemed a memorable spiritual festival. Following course the daily programme included abishekam to Sri Shirdi Baba and pooja to the other presiding deities, Lord Vinayaka, Subrahmanya, Sai Sundareswarar and the portrait of our beloved Bhagawan. The daily morning activities included flag hoisting, Sahasranama archana and Narayana seva for the poor and the needy. The evening session comprised of a video show elucidating Bhaga a s o t i utio to the elfa e of a ki d, follo ed soul sti i g usic concerts and Sai bhajans. Some of the highlights include: on the auspicious occasion of Global Mahila Day celebrated on 19 th November vastradanam and Narayana seva was performed for the economically backward pregnant women. The evening session comprised of veena concert by students of Sri NathaVarsha Institute which involved 10 or more veena played in unison which was a scintillating event. On 22nd November, the 34th Convocation programme of Sri Sathya Sai University, Prasanthi Nilayam was telecast live which was attended by a swarm of devotees. Another memorable programme included a dedicated musical offering rendered by alumni boys which still reverberates in the hearts of the devotees. Moreover a musical offering to reminiscence the golden days of PathaMandir rendered by the alumni girls relived those evergreen days. On 22nd November as a part of the evening programme, a musical offering was rendered by senior Sai devotee, Sri Kadiri Gopalnath which was offered as a floral tribute at the Lotus Feet of our 6

7 beloved Bhagawan. Similarly on 23rd November a violin concert rendered by Smt. Kanyakumari left the gathered devotees in inexplicable bliss. The yeoman service rendered by the Sai youth wing and their whole hearted participation in Veda parayanam, bhajan, pallaki seva would be evergreen in memory for years to come. On 23rd November Hari Hara Homam rendered by Vedic pundits at the premises of Sri Sai Sundareswarar Sannithi rendered atmic satisfaction. Besides vastradanam to the needy and blanket distribution to the pavement dwellers, the offering of relief materials to the affected families along the Cuddalore coast due to the recent cyclone too formed a part of the seva activity which was a sheer a divine one. The atu e s fu a d to e tial rains did not deter the day-to-day activities and moreover the pallaki seva, balvikas rally, rathotsavam were rendered successfully which beyond doubt were possible only ith the di i e p ote tio of ou elo ed Bhaga a. The authe ti atio of Bhaga a s divine protection was reaffirmed with the materialization of divine akshatha on the holy Dias and simhasanam. On 14th November 2015, Justice Rajendran lit the lamp of Agenda Jyothi and marked the beginning of the 24 hour Akanda bhajan which was attended by more than 1000 devotees from across all parts of the Chennai. Daily abishekam and pooja was carried out to Shiridi Sai Baba idol, Sai Sundarewarar and other deities installed within the premises of Sundaram. Saharanama Archana, Narayan Seva and special video shows were done daily in the forenoon sessions. Special music programs by the renowned artists and Sai Bhajans by the Sundaram Bhajan Group were held daily in the evening sessions. On 19th November 2015, Vastra Dhanam and Narayan seva was done to the poor pregnant mahilas who were the beneficiaries of our Sri Sathya Sai National Nutrition Project. Students from Sri Nadha Varsha Music School gave an exhilarating music program using ten different musical instruments. Kancheepuram South District: To commemorate the 90th Birthday celebrations of our Lord Sri Sathya Sai Baba, A Spiritual Yagna for 7 days is proposed to be conducted across Kancheepuram-South District. The details of various programs are furnished hereunder: : 90 BHAJAH SONGS BY BALVIKAS CHILDREN ACROSS THE DISTRICT SIMULTANEOUSLY IN 4 CENTERS : VETRINARY CAMP HELD AT CHITHERIMEDU VILLAGE, WHICH IS LOCATED NEAR KANCHEEPURAM & : AS A PART OF GOLDEN JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS BY BV CHILDREN, AN EXHIBITION WAS HELD AT BABY SCHOOL, TAMBARAM. EACH SAMITHI HAS BEEN GIVEN ONE SPIRITUAL TOPIC. BV CHILDREN WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THEIR GURUS PREPARED MODELS FOR THE EXHIBITION : A SADHANA CAMP FOR ALL MAHILA MEMBERS OF THE DISTRICT WAS HELD AT KANCHEEPURAM. Mrs. CHITRA RANGANATHAN, STATE MAHILA SERVICE COORDINATOR PRESIDED OVER THIS FUNCTION : 90 BHAJAN SONGS SUNG BY MAHILA MEMBERS ACROSS THE DISTRICT SIMULTANEOUSLY AT FOUR DIFFERENT CENTERS. 7

8 : EYE DONATION. IT IS PROPOSED TO DONATE A MINIMUM OF 90 EYES ACROSS THE DISTRICT ON THIS PARTICULAR DAY. SPIRITUAL YAGNA FOR 7 DAYS: 90 Divine Tirpur District: It is said that marriages are decided in heaven but when the SSSSO of Tirpur district arranged these marriages for the 92 couples enmass, the whole place got transformed into heaven on Friday, 21st August Careful selection of couples, meticulous planning and impressive arrangements at the marriage hall created a spectacular sight to watch, relish and rejoice. These couple belongs to very poor families and mostly belonging to small hamlets was selected for this mega marriage ceremony. Each Couple was provided with Mangal Sutra, new dresses, and even one month grocery provisions for the couples. In addition, a medical card was issued to every couple who can utilize this to avail free 8

9 treatment during the period of pregnancy and have their child birth expenses totally exempted at a hospital run by a devotee doctor. The Guidance of the Divine Director to the organizers right from the conception of the program till the execution was clearly visible when Bhagwan materialized Vibuthi on the Prasadams and on the dress materials kept for the newlywed couples on the day of the marriage. 9

10 Coimbatore District: 90 Hours of Akanda Bhajan With His divine grace and blessings, Akanda Bhajan is being organized as part of the year long celebrations of Bhag a s 90th Birthday. This 90 hour continuous Nama Sangeerthana Yagnam was held from 6 pm on 30/09/2015 (Wednesday) to 12 noon on 04/10/2015 (Sunday) at Sai Deep Kalyana Mandapam in Shiridi Sai Baba (Naga Sai) Mandir consecrated by Swami on 26/02/1961. Similar 90 hours Akanda bhajan was held at Salem, Neyveli, Hosur and Vellore districts of Tamilnadu. Kancheepuram North District: A massive exhibit of BV talents though models Purpose of Exhibition: Uniting All BV Children of Kanchi North District to spread the Divine message of our Bhagwan through an Exhibition in the Omnipresence of our most Beloved Bhaghawan at Sri Sankara Matriculation School, Ekambaram St, Pammal on PROGRAM DETIALS: the es ha e ee sele ted a d allotted to s ithies of Kanchi district. All the charts and murals was prepared and exhibited by the Balvikas Children. Values from Ramayana and Mahabharatha, Prayer and its significance, Saints of India, National Symbols, Nature is the best teacher, Shad Ripus, Bhajan and Namasamarana, five pillars of Swami, End of Education is Character, Gayatri Mantra, Major Religions of the world, Nine code of Conduct, Vaishnavo Janatho, Veda and its significance, Respecting Mother and Motherland, Ceiling of Desires are some of the themes which were portrayed by the BV children. The composition of exhibits consist of charts, 3D cut-outs, moving models (electrically operated), quizzes (Button operated), display thro TV monitors, puppet shows, skits thro DVD etc. 10

11 It was heartening to see that all the youths, elders and BV Alumni had lent their cooperation to this unforgettable event a reality. Erode District: Vedanjali A unique Veda Chanting program at three different temples by 90 devotees of SSSSO was organized by the Nanjagoundampalayam Samithi of Erode District. The Vedic recitation was done at the chosen three temples on 27th September 2015 wherein the members of our organization participated in large numbers and received the Blessings of our Bhagwan. Salem District: Panch Maha Yagnam A special five day festivity comprising of performing Yagnam on five deities on five days in the forenoon sessions and cultural programs in the evening sessions was organized by the devotees of Salem district. Chennai Metro North District: Nava Vidha Bhakthi Vaibhavam 28th November to 6th December Programme Schedule S.No Date (Saturday) (Sunday) Nava Vidha Bhakti Shravanam Programme Sri Sathya Sai Bhagavatam Discourse Keerthanam (Monday) Vishnu smaranam Nada sangamam walk from Sri Kasi Viswanathar Koil to Sai Nivas with sankeertanam Evening: Nama yagnam (On par with ARMY)&jhoola seva Glory of Sri Sathya Sai Organisations & the three boons bestowed by Bhagawan to mankind the three divine projects video presentation 11

12 (Tuesday) (Wednesday) (Thursday) Padasevanam Matrupooja by all devotees Vandanam Honouring Octogenerians Archanam (Friday) (Saturday) Daasyam (Sunday) Atmanivedanam Sri Sathya Sai Samarchanam (offering all our worldly & spi itual possessio s at a i s Lotus Feet) Honouring sevadals & sharing experiences of Sai seva Balvikas day Balvikas bhajan, Sri Sathya Sai balvikas parent contact programme, value games & speeches on topics of significance in I, II & III groups Youth day Disaster management programme for devotees Sakhyam Virudhunagar District: 90th Birthday celebrations :TREE PLANTATION 15 saplings were planted and at VettaiPerumalkovil 10 youth & DM team members participated : VISIT TO SCHOOL BALVIKAS Visited school balvikas center at Jeyaram school, Thiruvananthapuram street, RJPM. Distributed Pen,sweets,swami photos and conducted bhajan 50 students participated &benefited : OLDAGE HOME VISIT : We visited Terasa old age home, did bhajan, narayana seva and distributed Bread,Laddu,swami photos We also did Vasthradhanam 16 aged people benefited :MAHILAS DAY & VISIT GOVT. MATERNITY HOSPITAL 9AM to 4 PM: SAISMARAN Parayanam, bhajan 12 Noon Visited Govt. Maternity hospital, RJPM. Distributed dresses to 44 new born babies and also gave Bread, Sai Protein powder, swami prasadam to their mothers No. of benefited - 44 new born babies & mothers : YOUTH SERVICE SADHANA CAMP 9 AM to 2 PM : We did the cleaning work at SIVANANDA ASHRAM, AYYANAR KOIL, RJPM for Thirukarthigai festival 10- youths participated : SATSANG : 5 PM to 8 PM - CONNECTING WITH INNE AI - satang by SAI BROTHERS BALA RAMACHANDRAN & BALA RAMAKRISHNAN and also conducted Bhajan No. participated : BALVIKAS STUDENTS PROGRAMME & VISIT to LEPROSY WARD at Govt. Hospital : 9 AM to 12 : Veda parayanam and bhajan by balvikas students 12 Noon : Visited Leprosy ward at Govt. Hospital and did Vasthradhanam 8 - leprosy patients befitted 30 - balvikas students participated : 90th BIRTHDAY PROGRAMMES 5.20 AM : Omkaram, suprabhatham, nagarsankeerthanam with 12

13 RATHOSAVAM 6.30 AM : Sarvadarma Flag hoisting 8.30 AM : Visited SSSVIP-Veppe kula hool a d dist i uted a i s P asatha to students 10 AM : SaiSahasra namaarchana 40 mahilas participated 12 Noon : NarayanaSeva was conducted to nearly 600 people at Samithi, 8 - GH Leprosy ward patients 1 PM : Door step Narayanaseva & Vasthradhanam for 90 poor & slum area people 4.30 PM : I ATHYA AI DIVYAKATHAMI THAM - villupattu by samithi mahilas 5.30 PM : SAI BHAJAN &Vedio programme 6.00 PM : Sathsang by sairamthiru.narayanan 7.30 PM : Bhajan, Joola and prize distribution to Samithi level Balvikas Talent search contest winners 8 PM : Maha Mangala Arathi Note : Nagarsankeerthanam No. participated ( gents-15, mahilas 37) Narayana seva : 627 Vsathradhanam : 134 Leprosy patients : 8 Old aged home : 16 Bhajan & Sathsang No. participated : : WAMI STAR (THIRUVATHIRAI) BIRTH DAY : 10 AM TO 12 : Conducted Sahasranama archana and bhajan 13

14 Sivakashi- 90th Birthday Celebrations: In commemoration of 90th Birthday celebrations of our Beloved Bhagwan, the devotees of Sivakashi, Virudhunagar District had arranged an elaborate program on 11th October The one day program was attended by Prof.Anilkumar from Prasanthinilayam who conducted a satsang in his own fascinating, remarkable manner. The devotees from adjoining samitis of the district thronged in huge number to celebrate the occasion. t. u da a alli u esh, tea he at i ath a ai hool, P asa thi ila a spoke o The Golde e a of ai follo ed a s i tillati g p og a o ai o ga izatio a d ou ole i.k.na a a a. The da o luded ith a ega athosa a he ei Bhag a s photo as e e ted o a elepha t which led the rally followed by Balvikas Children, Mahilas and Gents devotees who sang bhajans and waded through the main lanes of the town. 14

15 Madurai district th birthday on 1st November 2015 and the Kovalan sa ithi ele ated Bhaga a s programme included Veda parayanam, bhajan and cultural programme by balvikas children. Vastradanam comprising of dhotis and sarees were distributed to 50 corporation conservancy staff of that area. On 5th November 2015 vastradanam comprising of dhotis, towels and sarees was conducted to the inhabitants of AngappanThottam village, SSSVIP adopted village, in a door-to-door manner. Global Akhanda Bhajan was conducted at Madurai Thiruppalaisamithi on 14th and 15th November 2015 with devotional fervor in a grand manner. In commemoration with Global Mahila Day on 19th November 2015, mahila members of all smithies participated in Sahasranamam and Lalitha Sahasranama parayanam held at TVS Nagar Samithi. Trichy district Sri Shirdi Sai Satcharitra Saptaha parayanam was rendered by Smt. Sathya Ramachandran conducted at Sri Sathya Sai Mandir in Aruna Nagar, Sri Rangam, Trichy district from 5th to 11th November On 12th November 2015 the session began with Shakambari ornamentation programme followed by bhajan and spiritual discourse. On 13th November Sri Lalitha Sahasranama Parayanam was conducted. On 14thNovember 2015 Narayana seva was performed for around 900 people, the inmates of Thomas visually handicapped home (airport), Prasanthi home (Periyar Nagar), Kangaroo Trust (KaruMandapam), Krishna Homes (Thiruvallarai), Seven Dollars (Sangilimandapam), Santhivanam (Dindugul) and BharathiarBalaGurukulam (Seerathoppu). On 14th November 2015, 90 times rendering of Sri Hanuman Chalisa was conducted. Besides this Global Akhanda Bhajan commenced in the evening and concluded in the evening of 15th November. On 16th November Saharanama Archana, 17th November blanket distribution to the pavement dwellers along the streets, 18th November distribution of 900 laddu prasadam, 19th November on account of Global Mahila Day offering Naivedyam to Bhagawan with 90 delicacies along with EkaNaama Archana, 20th November Lakshmi Narayanahomam and 21st November rathotsavam and pallak seva programme were conducted. On 22nd November, amrutakalasham comprising of 9 types of essential commodities were offered to 90 needy people. Besides this rendering of Pancha Ratna Keertans was rendered by a group of 90 renowned musicians. On 23rd November Bheemaratha Shanthi was conducted in the morning for 90 people. In the evening Veda parayanam, nadaswaram re ital, ai haja, Bhaga a s di i e dis ou se, jhoola seva, pushpanjali (floral rendering) were conducted and the programme concluded with maha mangala aarathi to our beloved Bhagawan. 15

16 2.3 EHV Programs: EHV programs at various institutions organised by SSSSO-TN: The SSSSO-TN have organised EHV programs at various educational institutions and at various Samithis in the State. The EHV programs are designed as a one day awareness courses which targets both the students and teachers with the twin objectives of U de sta di g the i po t a d sig ifi a e of Hu a alues. The benefits arising by practising them in our daily lives. Faculty members: o Thiru. V.Viswanathan, State Spiritual Awareness Program - Faculty Member o Thiru.Ganapathy, State Spiritual Awareness Program Coordinator o Mr. and Mrs. Thangamani, Virudhunagar The utility of the program cannot be undermined as it trains the young minds to follow the Dharmic way of life and influences the tender hearts to adhere the human values. Many feedbacks were e ei ed f o oth the stude t s o u it a d the tea hi g f ate it a out its useful ess a d having a compelling effect on the perception of the students and bringing about a positive transformation in the behaviour of the students. Feedbacks from the students and the teachers are collected at the end of each program. Some of the responses are worth mentioning as they not only motivate the facilitators but also become visiting cards for other institutions to invite us for such programs. S.N o CONSOLIATED STATUS OF EHV PROGRAMME CONDUCTED (From Apr Dec 2015) No of No. of No of FACULTIES Samithi No. of / Member Program STUDENT INSTITUTION PROGRAMME S OTHERS s s FACULITIES / OTHERS 1 COLLEGES SAI EHV SCHOOL SAI EHV SCHOOL EHV THROUGH MAGIC SAMITHY / BALVIKHAS / OTHERS EHV THROUGH MAGIC ENGINEERING INDUSTRY/I.T INDUSTRY SAI EHV/OTHERS GENERAL PUBLIC/SAMITHY/SCHOOL PARENTING TOTAL 16

17 Sri Ramana Vidhayalaya Matriculation School: Apollo Specialty Hospitals: Sri Sathya Sai Seva Samithi- Chrompet: 17

18 2.4 Sri Sathya Sai Books and publications Trust, Tamilnadu The SSSBPT, TN is actively involved in spreading the message of Sai by Publishing books and periodicals in Tamil language. The SSSBPT, TN takes pride in announcing that all the 3600 speeches of Bhagwan have been translated into Tamil language and brought out into 46 volumes entitled A ula utha Ne ta Di i e. This se ies of ooks ha e e o e est selle s i the state. Furthermore, it is to be noted that all Vahini series and Sathyam-Sivam-Sundaram series are also available in Tamil language. The Sanathana Sarathi in Tamil language has a base of 22,000 subscribers. Recently a newly renovated permanent book stall for daily sale of Sai literature started functioning at Sundaram from 9.00 am to 8.00 pm. During the Period Jan to June Two books were released (End of Education is Character, Stotra Rathnakaram) and one book reprinted ( Bhakthiyil Kortha Nal Mutthukkal). End of Education is Character is a hand book for the School and College students that amply delineates the various virtues one should develop and Vices one should forgo to become a wholesome person. Stotra Rathnakaram is a book for Balvikas children and Gurus that contains all the Slokas, Mantras, Vedam and Bhajans for all the three groups. It serves as a ready reference and guides the learner to read and learn the above contents. Bhakthyil Kortha Nal mutthukal is a best seller which contains the meanings and related stories for each of the Asthotram on Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. 18

19 During the Period Jul-Dec Bhagwatha Vahini a rendering of complete Vahini in Tamil (audio book) was released. This Vahini is Sathya Sai Baba's retelling of the Srimad Bhagavatam, a Hindu scripture about the divine incarnations of Vishnu. Here, Swami has chosen to concentrate on the Avatar of Krishna through the story of King Parikshith, grandson of the Pandavas --the heroes of the great epic the Mahabharata. Because Parikshith committed an offensive act in a moment of anger, he is cursed to die in seven days. Parikshith renounces his throne, desiring to merge with Lord Krishna. The sage Suka suddenly appears, reciting the glories of Krishna to the king for seven days and thereby imparting divine knowledge and bliss. The joy experienced by Parikshith enables him to merge in Krishna at the moment of death. These stories of Krishna's love and miracles radiate beauty and sweetness, and di i e light pou s f o e e page. To e ead a d e ead. A d to those ho a t ead a hea a d rehear the audio book. During the Period Jan-Jun Vahi is an audio rendering of complete Vahinis written by our Beloved Bhagwan in Tamil (audio book) was released. This Vahini is Sathya Sai Baba's retelling of the Srimad Bhagavatam, a Hindu scripture about the divine incarnations of Vishnu. Here, Swami has chosen to concentrate on the Avatar of Krishna through the story of King Parikshith, grandson of the Pandavas --the heroes of the great epic the Mahabharata. Because Parikshith committed an offensive act in a moment of anger, he is cursed to die in seven days. Parikshith renounces his throne, desiring to merge with Lord Krishna. The sage Suka suddenly appears, reciting the glories of Krishna to the king for seven days and thereby imparting divine knowledge and bliss. The joy experienced by Parikshith enables him to merge in Krishna at the moment of death. These stories of Krishna's love and miracles radiate beauty and sweetness, and divine light pours from every page. To be read and e ead. A d to those ho a t ead a hea a d rehear the audio book. 19

20 2.5 Radio Sai in Tamil: It was the Divine Sankalpa that the Tamil programme in Radio Sai was inaugurated on 14 th April 2010, the same day when the Tamil New year Day was celebrated at Prasanthi Nilayam. The Tamil programme is being broadcast on every Saturday between 7.30 p.m. and 8.30 p.m. Episodes broadcast so far include interviews with eminent personalities such as Judges Sathya Sai Institute Alumni Musicians Celebrities and Senior Devotees The programs were categorized under the following heads: Deivathin Kural Aatmartha Anubhavangal Seva Projects Sai Arogya Shravana Manjari Sandeha Nivarani Chinna Kathai Parthivasanum Paintamizthenum The increased reception from the devotees had initiated the Radio Sai (TAMIL) team to cover / produce the following: 1) A new serial called Book review has been introduced during this period. A speaker would review books written by / on Swami and give a presentation for 15 mins. This has also been received well by the listeners. 2) More focus has been given for service projects during this period of 6 months. 3) The Radio Sai Tamil Team has requested District Presidents and other office bearers to capture any service project and send the audio file to us for broadcasting in Radio Sai. 4) The Radio Sai Tamil Team now requests the State Office to encourage regional coordinators for capturing regional service / spiritual programmes. Radio Sai - Tamil covered the following programme during the six month period Jul-Dec 2014: 1. Aatmartha Anubhavangal of the following senior devotees: a. Dr.Seshagiri, former Dean, Tambaram TB Hospital and Dr.Chidambaram, a Senior devotee from Salem b. Mr.V.Meghanathan IRS (Retd.) and Carnatic Musician Padma Bhushan Smt.Sudha Raghunathan c. Sri.Kalyanaraman, a Senior Devotee from Tambaram d. Sri Anand, parent of Kumari Vijay Darshini, Bal Vikas Student from Erode. e. Sri.M.R.Chandran, Senior Devotee from Chennai and Custodian, Sundaram Centre f. Ms.Chandra Lakshman, Cine Artist and devotee g. Retd.Justice Sri.Jothimani (Repeat Programme) h. Sri.Venkat Jayaram, a Senior Devotee and Alumnus, Brindavan Campus i. Mr.V.Meghanathan IRS (Retd.) and Carnatic Musician Padma Bhushan Smt.Sudha Raghunathan 20

21 j. k. l. Conversation with Sri.J.V.Krishnamurthy, a Senior Devotee from Madurai and Dr.Panchanathan, Visiting Professor of SSSIHL, Puttaparthy. Conversation with 1) Dr. Panchanathan, Arizona, 2 ) Smt.Vasundara Krishnamurthy, Madurai and 2) Sri Srinivasan Chettiar, Madurai Conversation with 1) Sri Srinivasan Chettiar, Madurai 2) Sri.P.N.Varadarajan, Sr.Devotee from Chennai and 3) Sri.Ganpathi and Sri.Viswanathan on Spiritual Awareness Camps. 2. Radio Satsangh: a. Talks on Guru Mahimai, Nama Mahimai, Sat Sangha Mahimai and Saranagathi by Smt. Lalitha Srinivasan a. Talks on Sai Arulamudham by Sri.P.Srinivasan 3. Shravana Manjari a. Audio Book - Sathyam Sivam Sundaram - Read out by Mahilas. b. Shri Sai Sat Charitha - Read out by Mahilas. c. Audio Book - Tapovanam - Read out by Sai Youth and Sevadal Members 4. Deivathin Kural with Tamil Translation. 5. Tamil Poem on Shiridi Sai Baba and Parthi Sai Baba by a senior devotee Mr.Mathivanan. 6. Sai Arogya a. Conversation with Mr.Narayana Bupathy, Uthirasamy, Bhagyaraj and Subramanian all beneficiary of Super Speciality Hospital b. Conversation with Mr.Ali John (of Gobi Chettipalayam), a hospital beneficiary. c. Conversation with Super Speciality Hospital Beneficiary - 1) Sri. Ponnaian of Kovilpatti d. Conversation with Sri. Anandan of Erode. e. Conversation with Super Specialty Hospital Beneficiary - 1) Smt. Sudha and Sri.Nagarajan of Theni. 2) Sri. Marimuthu of Erode and 3 ) Sri.Arumugasamy of Tiruchengode f. Conversation with Super Specialty Hospital Beneficiary - 1) Sri. Thyagarjan of Thiruttani. 2) Sri. Manikandan of Tirunelveli 3 ) Smt. Farida Bhanu of Chengalpattu and 4) Sri Charles Sathyanathan of Chennai 7. Birthday Special - Joola Song by Dr.P.Susheela and Jaya Vijayee Bhava by Sundaram Bhajan Group 8. Flood Relief Seva Experiences - Conversation with Sri. G. Varadan, State President & Sri. Sai Prasad, Cuddalore District President 9. Seva Project - Conversation with Sai Youths on Besant Nagar Crematorium Cleaning Project. 2.6 Sri Sathya Sai Sapthaha Devamrudham Programme SAPTHAHAM - as the name suggests is a seven day program that unfolds the nectarine essence of the Lord and His Divinity. Swami, in His infinite love bestowed an opportunity on Sai Brother T.E. Vasudevan to spread His message to the people through SAPTHAHAMS. The pioneering program being SRI SATHYA SAI BHAGAVATHA SAPTHAHAM began in February 2005 and 108 such programs were completed by 2011 as an offering at His Lotus Feet. This series is being followed by SRI SATHYA SAI SAPTHAHA DEVAMRUTHAM which commenced in November 2011 with the Divine blessings of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. With an aim to spread His message, SRI SATHYA SAI SAPTHAHA DEVAMRUTHAM has successfully evoked interest in the people to read Sai Literature, reflected by a surge in the sale of Sathya Sai Literature. In this regard, every venue hosting the program is able to clock good book sales. A notable point here is that the subscription of Sanathana Sarathi has increased manifold. Another outcome has been an increased volunteer count for participating in Seva activities in Prashanthi Nilayam. Also, areas where there were no Samithis or even Bhajana Mandalis, have seen 21

22 new ones spring forth and existing Samithis have seen an increase in membership. This gives us the strength to carry on His work, whatever it maybe, as His ever-loving ever-guiding hand is always showering blessings upon us. Sapthaham No. Period to Sai Nivas - Perambur Chennai North to Kumarapalayam Namakkal to Karuma Kaundapalayam Namakkal to Yedakadu Somanatty Nilgris to Nellimund Nilgris to ERODE DIST to Antihyur Morning Session Antihyur Perumal Koil Evening Session to to Kongu Velalar Polytechnic College Thindal ERODE DIST to Bhagawathi Amman Koil - Shenoy Nagar CHENNAI WEST DIST. Venue District ERODE DIST. ERODE DIST to Kowdambadi ERODE DIST to Aththant ERODE DIST to Chithtode ERODE DIST to Cheran Nagar ERODE DIST to Mullam Parappu ERODE DIST to Moola Kowdan Pudur ERODE DIST to Pollachi Tirpur to Sengodam Palayam ERODE DIST to Chennaimalai ERODE DIST to Kasi Palayam ERODE DIST to Moolapalayam ERODE DIST to Sri Sathya Sai Hr.Sec.School, chitthode ERODE DIST to Anthiyur ERODE DIST to Vellai Koil ERODE DIST to Lions Club Old Age Home ERODE DIST to Kanchi Koil Road ERODE DIST to Nasiyanur old Age Home ERODE DIST to Sulai ERODE DIST to INAYAGA VIDHYA BHAVAN ERODE DIST to SURIYAM PALAYAM ERODE DIST to AYYAMMEDU ERODE DIST to Ambattur Tiruvallore Dist 22

23 2.7 Pavithra Parthi Yatra by the Erode District: A three day Parthi Yatra was organised by the Erode District of Tamilnadu wherein a special train as chartered to carry the 2300 devotees from Erode to Parthi. The yatra was meticulously planned to manage the huge number of pilgrims which included BV Children, School and College students, devotees, Beneficiaries of SSSIHMS and many new devotees. Programs by Parthi Yatra Group Erode Region, Tamilnadu Prashanthi Nilayam, Celebrating the occasion in the immediate Divine presence, the troupe offered a devotional presentation comprising dance and music in the evening session at Sai Kulwanth hall. The p og a e ega ith a sho t da e offe i g e titled A ata a a the gi l stude ts of i Sathya Sai Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Chithode, depicting the descent of Godhood A ata a a, as i i g glo, i gi g i g eate auspi ious ess. I oki g The Lo d to the e e i g s spe ial asse l ide a s agata so g, the p ese tatio the continued with a garland of songs, well-strung with a variety of beautiful devotional numbers in Sanskrit, Telugu and Tamil, sung by the Youth and Balvikas children. The collection of songs included a soul-sti i g Ja a i Ja a i Ja a i Jagatka i i, a ea i gful a d elodi aieesha Cha ita Ananda ha ita, U aala Loogu a i ath a ai a popula Ca ati lassi al lulla o Bhagawan, p eg a t ith g eat philosophi al ea i g a d Madhu a oha a Gha a h a a u da a ai o e of P asa thi s e e g ee u e s. Programs by Parthi Yatra Group Erode Region, Tamilnadu Day - 2 Prashanthi Nilayam, Students from Jaycees Matric School, Erode District, Tamil Nadu presented a value-oriented drama, ai Values & a a a a Lesso s d a f o a a Katha asa Vahi i, o the the e of Ramayana, on day-2 of Erode Parthi Yatra, in Prashanthi Nilayam. The evening presentation, as title suggests, as o Bhaga a s a a Katha asa Vahi i, p oje ti g fi e hu a alues f o the Ramayana perspective. 23

24 The session commenced with a brief intro by Smt. Rajani Rani, Principal of Jaycees Matric SchoolE ode, follo ed a da e p ese tatio o Di i e Lo e. A a akatha e ditio e t, as ould the stude ts si g i Bhaga a s ph si al p ese e, set the to e fo the epi al d a a p ese tatio. P esenting five distinct instances from the Ramayana, corresponding to five cardinal human values, children from Erode showcased through the presentation, the unstinting influence of the epic telling His Story from the Treta. The five distinct scenes depicted are: Lo d a a sti ks to T uth, ho ou i g His fathe s last ish, pe suadi g Bha ata to u the Ki gdo, pointer to Truth. Lord Rama accepts Vibheeshana to His fold, who seeks refuge, pointer to Dharma. Lord Rama sends Angada on a Peace Mission to Ravana; Angada makes his attempt, preaching at the demon in the Lankan court - pointer to Shanti. ha a i s i a ulate Lo e fo he Lo d pointer to Prema. Dacoit Ratnakara becomes MahaRishi Valmiki, leaving the path of non-violence pointer to Ahimsa. The presentation concluded with a pointer to wisdom, repeating Ravana, who in his dying moment repented for his sinful life that brought his downfall. All the devotees, young and old, were totally surcharged with the Divine Darshan, got themselves Submerged in the Love of Bhagawan, and last but not the least they were suffused with renewed zeal and vigour to carry out the mission of our Bhagawan at their home towns. Cultural Festival by devotees from Tamilnadu - Day 1 Prashanthi Nilayam As Prashanthi gears up running into the glorious 90th Birthday of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the October week-end featured a unique Tamil Nadu festival in the immediate Divine omnipresence in Prashanthi Nilayam. Commencing the week-long festivity on the evening of 25th October 2015, students from Sri Vishwa Vidyalaya Education Higher Secondary School, Vandaloor presented a long-skit on the legend of the Vishwa Vidyalaya School a story of touch of grace of Beloved Bhagawan, uplifting Vandalur, providing high class modern education. 24

25 As references of special features poured forth in the next one-hour, the music team of students from the School that won accolades for their exceptional performances turned up first, exhibiting their talent, playing the melodic beauty in the Divine Presence. A Yoga de o st atio e titled Values Th u Yoga as the e t ite, he ei a u h of stude ts exhibited acrobatic skills with formations on a high-pole and at ground level, displaying concentration, courage, dexterity, unity and harmony. When gratitude fills and fulfils the heart, when heart is overpowered by the values of transformation, it takes the shape of unbounded love and compassion. The presentation next illustrated such a noble story of transformation, of a student by name Aadesh, of the Vishwa Vidyalaya School, whose surrender to the will of God transformed him to become a beacon light, counselling the rural children. The hour-lo g p ese tatio e ded before bursting into a group song. ith a g ateful efe e e to Bhaga a s Missio a d guidance, Bhajans by the Tamil Nadu contingent continued and the session ended with Mangala Arathi to Bhagawan at 1825 hrs. Earlier, owing to the Parthi Yatra, the morning Vedam and an hour-long special Bhajans was conducted by the Tamil Nadu contingent of devotees. Cultural Festival by devotees from Tamilnadu - Day 2 Prashanthi Nilayam BECOMING HI FLUTE He became a flute in His Hand, playing flute at His Lotus Feet! On day-2 evening of the Weeklong Tamil Nadu Festivity, promising flautist from Chennai Sri J.A. Jayanth serenaded Bhagawan with a scintillating instrumental offering, playing on his bamboo flute, here, in Prashanthi Nilayam. Jayanth is an upcoming flautist with a rich cultural tradition to claim with, a prodigy who have performed widely in India and abroad. He is a A g ade a tist of AI, Chennai. If tale t is God Hi self, He, ide His i st u e ts, hu s out a d lifts the i ate do a t tale t a d devotion to exalted heights. This evening, He did so, as the talented youngster from Chennai became a flute in His hand, serenading the Lord with a variety of compositions. 25

26 B eathi g life th ough his fa ou ite a oo flute, Ja a th ega ith Ora choopu choo chedi nyayama, a St. Thyagaraja composition in Kannadagowla, set to Aditalam, and flowed on for the e t o e hou ith so e of the fi est editati e elodies. The se o d pie e, Chitta ho a Yasoda Ke Bal, a popula ai Bhaja, as e ough to lift the mood, stirring up the nostalgia in the air. As the session flowed on, Jayanth picked up to a higher gear playing some astounding tonal variations, with his adept a o pa ists pla i g i pe fe t ta de. Vaish a a Ja a To, Pi a e a a asa, et. follo ed efo e the concluding piece, an inciting number, aghupati agha a aja a. At the end, an appreciative audience gave a rapturous applause to Jayanth and Co.-- Sarvasree M. Rajeev, N.C. Bharadwaj and S. Sunil Kumar on Violin, Mridangam and Kanjeera respectively. Cultural Festival by devotees from Tamilnadu - Day 3 Prashanthi Nilayam SKANDA VAIBHAVAM A Musi al Da e Dra a o the lege d of ka da Pura a God scripts His Story vide epics and puranas only to help man to ascend to Godhood! The legend of Skanda Purana is no different, as the moral of the story stands for the Absolute Union of Jeevatma with the Paramatma. The State of Tamil Nadu is synonymous with devotion to Lord Subramania, who is popular as Lord Muruga or Karthikeya in the Dravidian Culture. He is also the Warrior-Lord, viz, the Commander-inChief of the De as s A, so of Lo d hi a a d Mothe Pa athi. On the evening of 27th October 2015, as the Tamil Nadu Week Of Festivity reached day-3, the Balvikas Children from the tate p ese ted a olou ful da e d a a o the lege d of the ka da Pu a a, at the ai Kul a th Hall i P asha thi Nila a. The presentation, with great metaphorical import, aired the message of annihilation of avidya or ignorance, depicting the victory of Jnana or Wisdom. Titled ka da Vai ha a, the p ese tatio as a depi tio of the fa ous oo a a ha a vanquishing of the demon Soorapadman at the hands of Lord Subramania., the The presentation began with an introductory narration followed by an inciting dance, paying obeisance to the Divine Parents - Lo d hi a a d Maa Pa ati, so g ei g the fa ous Ka pu a Gau a Ka u a ataa a Bha a Bha a i ahita Na a i. 26

27 De as o e to the Di i e A ode, Kailash, seeki g Lo d hi a s i te fe e e to help alleviate their suffe i g at the ha ds of the de o oo apad a, a d thus the sto li e fo this e e i g s presentation. What e sued e t as a se ies of a atio i te spe sed cultural heritage, along with the story-line. ith depi tio of Ta il Nadu s g eat Showcasing rich cultural diversity, various dance forms, Bharatanatyam followed up with ten popular Folk Dance forms forayed to the centre stage in succession, taking the story along with, presenting the epic battle. The Folk forms depicted were, Kaalkolattam, Poikkal Kuthirai Aattam, Oyilattam, Badugas Dance, Silambattam, Karagattam, Mayilaattam, Kavidiaattam, Kummiaattam and Kolaattam. The Lord stands for Universal Wisdom and the demon for individual ego. The Divine Spear of the Lord represents absolute concentration that finally shatters the myth of ignorance. The annihilation of ego is s olized i the fo of the de o s fi al su e de a d t a sfo atio. The legend says the demon was transformed into a tree, from which emerged a rooster and a peacock. The Lord with His loving glance transforms them, incorporating the rooster as His standard, while the peacock is used as His mount. The same way, the Lord helps every Jeevatma to subdue its ego, converting the lower feelings into pure awareness, effectively transforming the individual. The grand finale of the episode depicted the reunion of the Lord with Maa Devayani, daughter of Lord Indra, symbolic representation being the Absolute Union of the Jeevatma with the Paramatma. A d in celebration the children burst into the final dance formation, presenting a scintillating Kolattam dance. Over 150 Balvikas children from ten districts of Tamil Nadu participated in the hour-long presentation. Cultural Festival by Devotees from Tamilnadu - Day 4 Prashanthi Nilayam The Bal ikas Musi al F ate it of Ta il Nadu p ese ted a soulful de otio al e e i g on 28th October 2015, parading hymns in adoration of the One God with many names and forms, on the 4th day of the ongoing Tamil Nadu Week of Festivity, in Prashanthi Nilayam. The theme of the evening programme titled 'Ganamrutham' was adoration of the redeeming power of Divine Darshan, highlighting on the astounding power of Divine benediction. 27

28 Begi i g ith a Jai Ga esh i o atio i e a ula Ta il, the sessio e to ith h sa d songs in Sanskrit, Telugu and Hindi, apart from a series of songs in Tamil. The evening numbers i luded a allu i g hi ka a ela e De a si gi g o the e uisitel ha i g eaut of Lord Subramania, with interspersed Raagas, and an evergreen Katrinile Varum Geetham, immortalized by the legendary Dr MS Subbulakshmi. Remembering the Ka i Va i that, o e should e e e Hi ith e e si gle eath, as o e is ot sure of the very next eath a d e alli g Bhaga a s di tu that, Lo d s Na e is o e po e ful than His form, the session then drifted into a short spell of Bhajan Medley, highlighting on the greater glory of Naamasmarana. Wi di g up the sessio, a I st u e tal E se le ensued next, involving Violin, Flute, Tabla, Mridangam and Ghatam, transporting the audience, with a short burst of inciting Rhythmic Fusion, to sheer ecstasy. Cultural Festival by Devotees from Tamilnadu - Day 5 Prashanthi Nilayam Does Bhaga a s ph si al a se e ea a Ete al Va uu? Do the g ie i g souls of de otees ha e so e a out??? so e hope a d sola e o thei a? The d a a p ese tatio on the evening of 29th October 2015 by the Tamil Nadu Youth dealt with this poignant issue, answering many questions with crystal clarity. The p ese tatio e titled i ath a ai The Ete al ai toda, i the th evening of the Tamil Nadu Week of Festivity, played around with the story of a disillusioned youth, disillusioned at Bhaga a s ph si al passi g o. The spirited father of the youth, active with the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, pitches in, making an all-out effort, to re-a ake the lost spi it of the ou gste, a d thus the sto -line for the presentation. Putting forth his arguments, the father explains, how, Bhagawan is eternally inspiring, filling e e thi g, e e he e at all ti e. Fu the i g his ad a es, he then timely recalls some of the most inspirational spiritual heroics of the bygone era, presenting four distinct devotees with inspiring tales attached, namely, Ghora Khumbat, Moses, Surdas and St Thyagaraja. Vide these inspirational episodes, the presentation summarized how The Lord does timely intervention, helping and guiding devotees, at all times. 28

29 In conclusion, the presentation also cautioned the Sai fraternity of the imposters around, claiming to e Bhaga a s ediu. The p og a e o luded ith a s all ideo lip of Bhaga a s Di i e discourse, with Bhagawan reiterating His o it e t to Puttapa thi. The presentation was interspersed with beautiful Telugu and Hindi songs. Earlier, the session commenced with a brief introductory talk by the State President of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, Mr.G.Varadhan. Cultural Festival by Devotees from Tamilnadu - Day - 7 Prashanthi Nilayam If His Presence is His legacy and His mighty Presence marks Supreme Auspiciousness, Prashanthi Nilayam continues to bask in the greater glory of this Supreme Auspiciousness. On the final day of the week long festivity by the state of Tamilnadu, the Balvikas children from the State of Tamil Nadu came up with a Musical Dance Drama presentation on the Celestial Wedding of Lord Rama with Mother Sita, it was this unbounded auspiciousness that filled Prashanthi, ensuing heavenly delight. The p ese tatio this e e i g titled ita a a Kal a a also long Tamil Nadu Cultural Festivity in the Divine Presence. a ked the g a d-finale of the week- The drama in English, with dance and music interspersed, ran through the Ramayana epic illustrating ajo e e ts, egi i g ith the Putra Kameshti Yaga, o e i g e e tful a tio s to ul i ate i the most auspicious Celestial Marriage of Lord Sri Ramachandra with Mother Sita. 29

30 The story begins with a desponded Emperor Dasarata, who was issueless, goes for the conduct of an auspi ious Put aka eshti Yaga, seeki g hea e l fa ou of lessi gs ith p oge. The e ta ous Rama Katha Rasa Vahini flowed through the next fifty minutes, singing, enacting and narrating His to f o the T eta Yuga, i His e o P ese e. Events depicted included the Divine Advent of Lord Rama along with siblings, childhood of the Divine siblings, Gurukula Education, Rama as Saviour fighting the demoness Tadaki protecting the Yajna offi iated Vish a it a, Mothe ita s i th a d up i gi g, Ahal a Moksha, a d e e ts leadi g to the Sita Swayavaram to end with the Celestial Re-Union. The Marriage symbolically represents the Absolute Union of the Jeevatma with the Paramatma, the goal of life in His creation. Thi t Eight Bal ikas hild e f o make it a beautiful presentation. the tate pa ti ipated i this La ou Of Lo e, toili g ha d to Prashanthi Nilayam has witnessed many such occasions in the past, with Bhagawan personally officiating celestial events of the order, helping to capitalize untold heavenly benediction upon the planet earth. 30

31 3.1 Report on Prashanthi Seva May 2015 ( to ) Tamilnadu Prashanthi Seva was carried out smoothly from to in 2 batches. Deployment of Sevadals of both March and May month was carried out under the guidance of Ashram Authorities. The response of Sevadals from the Districts were satisfactory in both March and May Month Service. No. of Sevadals May 2015 Parthi Seva-Tamilnadu Batch-I Batch-II Required Reported Gents Required Reported Mahilas Apart from the above strength 12 boys in First batch 25 Boys in the Second batch did B.V.Project work. Ashram authorities appreciated the work done by them with enthusiasm and spiritual fervour. RVTC Students from Erode in First batch and from Thirukkurungudi Tirunelveli district attended Parthi Seva. Certificates were issued to Erode Students after their completion of First batch in the Divine Presence at Samadhi area and photos were taken. They expressed that the practical training given after their course was very much helpful and they learnt a lot during their training period. During the period the following additional Seva was carried out apart from security and regular utility Seva 1. For Eswaramma Day celebration, Eswaramma Samithi Campus was beautifully decorated and service rendered for mass Narayana Seva by both Gents and Manilas Sevadals. 2. In the Mahilas side, colorful rangolis were presented at the entrance gates, Eswaramma Samadhi gate and flower decoration at the center of the Samadhi which attracted the attention of all. 3. Pre Sevadals ( Balvikas Boys ) were deployed for rendering helping service to the Sevadals, who were cleaning the area in North Indian Canteen. 4. Pre Sevadals were deployed for changing / removing the bed spreads in about 150 rooms in North Block area.. This was well appreciated by the ashram authorities. 5. Chaithanya Jyothi area was cleaned by in the First and Second batch by regular Sevadals Inside cleaning was done by Mahila members. C.J was closed for annual cleaning. 6. Sevadals deployed for Narayana Seva in the shed area for almost all the days. 7. Task Force team took up Major cleaning jobs in the Maintenance Store room and removed about a truck load of unwanted material to the scrap yard and the usable materials were arranged neatly. This service was well appreciated by the maintenance engineers. Scrap yard was arranged in order, so that an area earmarked for constructing a new building was cleaned thoroughly and kept. 8. One truck load of Oil tins was unloaded and stacked in the canteen store. 31

32 9. Sevadals deployed for Chitravadi Yatra on 6th of May Nos. of gas cylinders moved from main storage area to the canteen two times. Generally all the Group leaders and Sevadals cooperated very well for rendering this Seva in a smooth manner. About 115 Sevadals renewed their Sevadal cards and 16 Sevadals got new Sevadal cards during this Seva. Prashanthi Seva Report - 15th October to 15th-November With the abundant blessings of Bhagawan, TN Prashanthi Seva was carried out between 15th Oct 2015 and 15th Nov 2015.During the period TN Sevadals had the opportunity to do Seva in the following festivals. 1. Navarathri and Grama Seva. 2. Deepavali 3. Week long Cultural Program by Tamilnadu State. Seva was carried out in three Batches for facilitating all the Sevadals from the state to take part in the Seva. Prior to the Seva period State Office bearers went around almost all the Districts for motivating the Sevadals and to improve the strength of the Members in the smithies. Parthi Seva during 15th Oct to 15th Nov- Gents Parthi Seva 15th Oct to 15th Nov-Mahilas Allotted Batch -I Batch - Batch II III Apart from the regular Seva activities, the following jobs were carried out. 1. Airport duty 2. Transported rice bags, sugar bags and Oil tins from go down shed to the Main canteen every week. 3. Unloaded tons of rice, oil, flour, paint tins and sugar and stacked in shed no Transported 140 chairs from Satsang hall to North Indian canteen and back. 5. Cable weighing 600kg was transported from Lorry transport office to the maintenance shed. 6. Mattresses and bed spreads were changed in N1, N2, N4 and N9 blocks. 32

33 7. 3Tons of boxes were shifted from Sadhana Trust first floor to new archives building,adjacent to the University Administrative building. 8. Mattress and cots shifted from S7 to Shed No concrete slabs transported from yard behind shopping complex to Music college and covered 400 ft long drain. 10. Material stored in the cellar room of Shanthi Vedika(Stadium) was shifted in 4 lorries to Chaitanya Jyothi complex Cots and Mattress were shifted from shed 1 to Shanthi Bhavan. Dismantled the cots and reassembled them inside the rooms. Mattresses were placed on the cots in the rooms. 12. Primary school: Luggages of children were brought down when they were going home for holidays and when they came back after the holidays,carried their luggages to their respective rooms in 1st and 2nd floors.(very tough task indeed). 13. Damaged pad locks were replaced in the bathroom Doors in A1,B1,C1, A2,B2 & C2 14. Attended to Chithravati yathra twice. Report on Prashanthi Seva March 2016 ( To ) With the abundant Blessings and Divine Grace of our Beloved Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba Varu, Tamilnadu got the blessings of leading All India Prashanthi Seva from 15th March to 31st March where in, 18 States participated in the Seva and got the blessings of Bhagawan. Prasanthi Seva by Tamilnadu- March Required Reported Batch I Batch II Gents Batch I Batch II Mahilas 33

34 3.2 Medical camps: There are many villages without even the basic amenities. The residents of these villages suffer from many ailments and leave it uncared for due to lack of medical knowledge, health awareness and affordability. The members of the Organisation, Tamilnadu have been involved in taking active interest in detecting, diagnosing and treating the diseased with utmost care and love. Three Pronged approach towards alleviating the health related sufferings of the people by the organisation: Conducting free Medical camps at the Village site/ slum areas / village schools b) u i g a ai K ipa dispe sa at a ious a ithi p e isesc) Tie-ups with the major hospitals to allot one/two beds for the patients referred to them through Sri Sathya Sai Health care program. a) Apart from the above we have also been involved in regular blood donations to the needy patients. This Liquid love initiative has been functioning at major cities with a list of donors who are ready and offer this invaluable service on call from the needy patients for their surgical and / or medical procedures. Conducting free medical camps at the village site/ slum areas/ village schoolssome of the noteworthy mega medical camps conducted in the state during the previous year are mentioned below: Medical Camp at Samicheetypalayam, Coimbatore: A medical camp was organized at Samichettypalayam by the Sai Baba Colony Samithi of Coimbatore on 8th March To commemorate the Advent of 90th Birth Day of Sri Sathya Sai Baba Varu and 50th Golden Jubilee celebrations of our Organisation, a Free Medical Camp for public was organised by Vaishanavi Nagar Samithi on Sunday the at the above venue. The combined medical camp commenced after hoisting of Prashanthi Flag by Group Co-ordinator Shri Rajagopalan at 7-45 am and Sai Bhajans. 34

35 General Medical camp by Vaishnavi Nagar Samithi, Tiruvallore: A team of Paramedics and doctors from Kumaran hospitals, Kilpak, Chennai participated in the general medical camp organised by Vaishnavi Nagar Samithi. Around 146 patients were screened and provided free medicines for their ailments. Another team of doctors from Rajan Eye care clinic, T Nagar, Chennai also participated to screen the patients for their eye problems. Totally 226 patients were screened and 12 patients were selected for cataract surgery. 43 Sevadals & 8 Bal Vikas Students have performed duty. Camp concluded with Mangala Haarathi to Swami by 2.00 pm. T o Da Dia eti a p at Thaa gaad, Nilg is D.V.Moha s Dia eti Ce t e, Che ai: A two day Diabetic screening camp was organized by our State Trust Convener- Padmashri Dr.V.Mohan on 18th and 19th July The camp venue was at a village in the hilly township of Nilgris district. More than 600 patients attended the camp and were screened for various diabetic related ailments. 35

36 Blood donation camps on 16th August Vellore district: As a part of ou elo ed s a s th birthday celebrations, the Vellore devotees and Sevadals donated blood (LIQUID LOVE) to CMC hospital Vellore on Sunday at Vellore. Members of all the Samithis of Vellore district participated in the camp wherein 69 were screened and 47 were qualified to donate the blood. Blood donation camp on 4th October Chennai Metro West district: With the abundant grace of our most beloved Bhagawan, a Blood Donation Camp was organised by the Youth Wing of Chennai Metro West in association with the NCC wing of Pachaiappa's College. A team of Doctors from the Rajiv Gandhi General Hospital Blood Bank were involved in the above camp. The camp was held on Sunday, the 4th October 2015 between 9.00 am to 1.00 pm. The Camp commenced with Veda chanting and bhajan at 8.25 am followed by lighting of kuthu vilakku by Dr. Gajivaradhan, Principal, Pachaiappa's college and Dr. Chidambaram, NCC Officer, Pachaiappa's College. The camp was formally inaugurated by first donor being Shri Ajay Dhawan, Commanding Officer, NCC. Around 170 donors were screened. Out of this, 30 NCC cadets were rejected due to age being under 18 years (shortfall of 3 to 6 months) and about 25 female donors were rejected due to low haemoglobin count and other medical reasons. With Swami's grace, the camp closed at 1.15 pm with 115 donors. The camp concluded with Mangala Aarthi to Bhagawan and this was followed by Narayana Seva to the College Staff members, General Hospital Doctors and their team and our Sevadals. 36

37 Blood Donation camps on 15th November Tanjore District: By the grace of the Almighty Bhagawan, despite heavy showers we were able to collect 10 units of Liquid Love. Due to heavy rain we could not conducted the Camp as pre-planned but somehow we could collect the people and conducted the Camp successfully at the Blood Bank itself. Gratitude Program by Sai Kripa Doctors: More than 350 doctors who were rendering their medical seva at various Sai Kripa dispensaries functioning at major districts of Tamilnadu assembled at Sundaram, Chennai on 15th August 2015 to pay their gratitude to our Bhagawan. The 36 years of relentless medical seva through Sai Kripa dispensaries by the devotee doctors had been beautifully recollected by the speakers through their enlivening presentations. A posiu e titled T a sfo atio th ough Medi al e a ode ated D. V. Mohan Trust Convenor, Sathya Sai Trust, Tamil Nadu was held wherein the speakers- Dr. M. Vijai Kumar recounted his first hand experien e of o se i g a i s lo e fo a patie t oth i His ph si al as well as cosmic forms and the transformation that has been brought about by the same. Dr. Sundararajan plastic surgeon spoke on the joy of medical seva from his long association with it, at Madras, Parthi, and Whitefield. Dr. Krishnamurthy from Madurai spoke on the sweetness of Sai grace from his personal experiences. 37

38 The ke ote add ess ai Medi a e the a fo a d as deli e ed i.v. i i asa. He stressed on the need to train a team of Para-medical volunteers as an interface between doctors and patie ts fo the ette o plia e of do to s i st u tio s a d thereby better outcomes. These olu tee s ould fu tio as Ba e-foot do to s he eed a ises. The should also e t ai ed i disaster management and in contingency can act as second line of Medical seva. Diabetic Retinopathy KK Nagar, Chennai Metro West District: The Chennai Metro West district of SSSSO had organized a diabetic retinopathy camp in association with Dr.Mohans diabetic Centre and Rajans Eye hospital, Chennai on 11th October 2015 at KK Nagar Spring field School. 14 of the 200 patients were diagnosed for cataract surgery and were taken to Rajans Eye Hospital for cataract surgery. Other patients were treated with appropriate medicines and counseling were given to them about their health issues. GRAMA SEVA & MULTI SPECIALITY MEDICAL CAMP CONDUCTED ON SUNDAY, THE 17th APRIL 2016 AT GNAYIRU VILLAGE (Tiruallore District) On the Glorious 50th Golden Jubilee Year formation of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Samithi, Ambattur, this initiative of Grama Seva & Multi Speciality Medical Camp along with SSSSO, Thiruvallur Dist. on 17th Ap il as u de take A attu a ithi fo the e efit of eed illage s. 38

39 GNAYIRU VILLAGE Gnayiru is a village panchayat located in the Thiruvallur district of TamilNadu State, India. It has an ancient & famous temple of Lord Shiva revered as Sri Pushparatheshwarar-Swarnambikai temple (Surya Parihara Sthalam). Hospital facility is not within the reach of the villagers and is available beyond 30 kilometres to avail proper medical treatment. PROGRAMME Arrangements were made on previous day, i.e., Saturday, the viz., cleaning the Elementary School premises, which is the venue for Medical Camp and erection of shamina etc., to make the area spic and span. On the next day the Programme commenced at 9 am. Dignitaries who graced the occasion include our respected State President Sri G. Varadhan, newly appointed State Service Coordinator Sri P. Suresh Kumar and State SRP Coordinator Sri Jayaraj and District President Sri N. Sathya Narayanan. Prashanthi Flag was hoisted by State Service Co-ordinator Sri P. Suresh Kumar in the presence of State Office Bearers and District Office Bearers to mark the commencement of Grama Seva and Medical Camp at Gnayiru Village. Veda chanting & Bhajan followed for a brief period. About Sevadals from Ambattur, Ayapakkam, Korattur, Porur, Redhills, Senthil Nagar,Kavarapetai,Arni Samithis took active part in the entire programme. Medical Team consisting of General Medicine, Neurology, Ophthalmology, Diabetics, Gynaecology, Dental & Paediatrics took part in the Medical Camp. Seven Doctors consisting of Five Mahila Doctors (5), Two (2) Gents Doctors apart from Four (4) Optometrists from Sankara Nethralaya attended the camp. Eye screening was done for 137 Patients and out of them 17 Patients was selected for Surgery. Nearly 420 Patients received medical attention and benefited through this medical camp. As a part of GramaSeva, Spiritual value based games for the Village children was held and Village Children enthusiastically particiated. Winners and all participants were given prizes as a token of encouragement to learn and practice values as propounded by our beloved Swami. About 250 deserving Villagers including Patients were given Vastra Dhanam which was received as Sai Prasadam by them. GENERAL MEDICAL CAMP CONDUCTED BY REDHILLS SAMITHI AT MIDDLE SCHOOL, ATTANTHANGAL, PADIANALLUR VILLAGE, REDHILLS ON SUNDAY, THE 28TH FEBRUARY, 2016 Doctors team Doctors - 7 (General, Cardio, Gynaecology and Paediatrician) Optometric an - 1 Lab technician 1 39

40 Beneficiaries : Gents104 and Ladies 91 About 40 Sevadals of Redhills and nearby smithies were participated along with other convenors and district office bearers. The camp was inaugurated in the presence of District President. Medical Camps for Balvikas Children and BV Parents at Sai Nivas Perambur: With the divine grace and blessings of our beloved Bhagawan, a medical camp for the bal vikas children and parents of all the 18 Samithis in Chennai North district was conducted on Sunday, 20th March 2016 at Sri Sathya Sai Nivas, Perambur. This medical camp was intended to improve the relationship with the bal vikas parents. Through this we intend to tell them that we are there to care for them and this is a first and significant step to motivate them to become members of our organisation. Many more such events for the active participation of the bal vikas parents is being planned. In this camp 78 gents (including boys) and 115 mahilas (including girls) (total 193) were screened and administered medical advice by a team of 4 doctors (2 gynaecologists, 1 general physician and 1 paediatrician) along with 4 nursing staff from Kumaran Hospitals Pvt. Limited, Chennai. Follow up with the gurus for referral cases has been undertaken. All the district gurus under the supervision of the district educational coordinator helped in the successful conduction of the medical camp. MOBILE MEDICAL CAMP INAUGURATED AT TRICHY ON

41 Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organization, Trichy organized the first ever Mobile Medical Camp at Malaiappanagar Village, Perambalur on 5th June The entire Tribal Village covering around 200 patients were benefited. Medical cover and counseling for expectant mothersa unique program organised by the Mahilas of the Sri Sathya Sai organisation, Chennai Metro (South) district, is the prenatal and ante natal medi care for the expectant mothers from the economically weaker sections of the society. This medical camp was inaugurated 19 years ago. Expectant mothers from adopted villages and SSSVIP villages are brought to this medical centre for treatment. Experienced gynaecologists offer their services every fortnight. The treatment includes educating the expectant mothers regarding the health and hygiene, precautions to be taken during p eg a a d p o idi g the ith ai P otei e ui ed fo o ths. The e o a is provided with a small kit containing the essential items like rubber sheets, nappies, baby powder, soaps and shampoo. A total of 5 mahilas are involved in organising the camp with a minimum of 2 spealist doctors at every camp. So far 732 mothers have been benefitted by this seva. Sai Kripa Free Medical Aid Centre ai K ipa ea s the ou tiful o passio of the Lo d. T ue to this state e t, a i i augu ated the ai K ipa f ee edi al aid e t e fo the u de p i ileged a d the si k, a othe li i g illust atio of His love in action, at Kilpauk, Chennai on 15th January 1978 on a small note. This later blossomed into a multi-speciality centre in 1979 at Abbotsbury, Mount Road, Chennai and later shifted to a place adjacent to Sundaram, making every Sunday a Sai day catering to the health needs of the needy in and around Chennai. A panel of 20 doctors of various specialities and a dedicated team work of 70 Seva Dals (40 gents and 30 mahilas), inclusive of paramedical and pharmaceutical disciplines, are immersed in this noble seva every Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. attending on an average of 250 patients every week. The programme starts with bhajan, registration and general check up, followed by clinical tests, if any, specialist advice if need be, concluding with free medicine distribution and Narayana Seva for all the patients. For further treatment, patients are referred to neighbouring hospitals in Chennai. Besides this, a concerted effort is made by all the doctors to understand the patient first before prescribing anything. Keeping their sensibilities, rural conditions and other factors in mind, a lot of thinking is done on how the medicines are to be dispensed, how rural camps should be organised and how to better understand the pains and suffering of this often-neglected and poor section of the society. All this has resulted in better care to the patients and their numbers keep increasing every Sunday. Striving continuously to improve their services, the doctors at Sundaram have also recently sta ted a You g Adults Health Ca e P og a e to guide the youth in the villages who suffer from al ohol a use, d ug a use, a ae ia a d i p ope health edu atio. ai K ipa is pio ee i g the issio of Health fo all as its p i e pe spe ti e. As a e te sio of ai K ipa dispe sa fu tio i g ea u da a si ila ai K ipa dispe sa ies started functioning at various Samithi premises across the state providing medical aid to the needy patients. Sai Kripa Medical Centre, Tondiarpet Sai Kripa medical centre has been functioning since 1992 catering to the medical needs of the down trodden and the needy every Sunday at Tondiarpet. This centre has been operating under the supervision of two doctors accompanied by 6 sevadals and on an average 50 people are being benefitted every week through this seva. 41

42 Medical Seva at SaiKrupa, Anna Nagar This service is in existence for the last 30 years. Swami visited this place thrice. Weekly 1000 patients treated Tie-ups with the major hospitals to allot one/two beds for the patients referred to them through Sri Sathya Sai Health care program. This is another initiative by the organisation wherein they have tied up with other hospitals in the city that have come forward to provide one/ two free beds in their hospital for inpatient treatments to those referred to them under Sri Sathya Sai health care program. A Decade of Dedicated Seva Liquid Love Donation Blood carries the essential nutrients for the survival of the body; it ceaselessly on the move serving untiringly and without bias. Hence, Swami rechriste ed lood as Li uid Lo e hi h e li e s the divine dictum of love in action, true seva. With population explosion posing problems, societal unrest rampant, social and ethical degeneration, diseases within and disasters all around, the need for blood is ever on the rise. This melted the hearts of the Sai fraternity. Thus, on 6th December 1998, Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations o e ed a p og a e alled Li uid lo e. It as started in a small way and within a short span of time, it bloomed with an elaborate information counter and a data bank manned by three volunteers, 24X7 for catering to the blood transfusion requirements for nearly 25 hospitals in the city of Chennai in cases of emergencies and post surgeries. With a need-based software and a database of more than 7,500 donors comprising of all blood groups which is constantly updated, it serves on an average 100 patients a month who are undergoing surgeries and some receiving 2-3 units of blood, including rare blood groups. Owing to the excellent coordination existing between the hospitals and the liquid love volunteers, the needy are served at the required moment. The number of shields, trophies, and citations awarded by the Madras Voluntary Blood Bureau stand as testimony to the yeoman service being rendered by this set-up in Sundaram. 3.3 Sri Sathya Sai Mobile Hospital Seva- Performance highlights: With the divine blessings of our beloved Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai mobile hospital was inaugurated by Sri. Saidai Duraisami, Honourable Mayor, Corporation of Chennai on 21st August This mobile hospital Seva is being rendered in parts of Chennai and its adjoining districts of Tiruvallur and Kanchipuram on all Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in the chronological order at 1. Sirudavur village, 2. Chennai Korukkupet, 3. Kodungaiyur, 4. Guruvaraja Kandigai village, 5. Red Hills, 6. Kannagi Nagar, Torapakkam, 7.Arasankazhani village, 8. Ambedkar Colony, Nanmangalam, 9. Karasangal village, 10. Arambakkam, Tambaram, 11. Nandambakkam village, Kundrathur and 12. Nandanambakkam Chennai Trade Centre respectively for the benefit of the down trodden people living in these areas from September

43 On an average around 200 patients inclusive of old people, men, women and children are benefitted through this camp. After consultation by speciality departments the prescribed patients are offered medical tests in the technologically advanced and medically infrastructural bus specially designed for the purpose and medicines are offered free of cost to the patients. Renowned and experienced doctors residing in the nearby areas of the camp sites wholesomely participate in the camp which is ably supported by the respective district Sevadals. SRI SATHYA SAI MOBILE HOSPITAL (TAMILNADU) CAMP REPORT FOR THE YEAR : (April 2015 TO March 2016) STATE TAMILNADU A No. of SSSMH camps planned 146 C No. of Villages covered B No. of SSSMH camps conducted 144 D Total Population covered Ophthalmologist Pulmonologist Ortho Radiology Pathologist Physiologist Total 0 CHOLESTRAL PPBS Urea Gyna Endocrine Diabetes Other Pap smear Total Total FBS 935 Neuro 0 Urine Sugar 0 Cancer 0 Urine Albumin 0 ORTHO 30 Creati 9 ENT 139 Bl.sugar 102 Paed 113 X Ray 100 Cardiac USG (Scan) 39 Total Dermatology 52 Dietician ENT 18 Radiologist Paediatric 12 Pharmacist Gyna 111 X Ray Tech Dentist 151 Lab.Tech Surgeon 170 ECG Tech 13 Surgery Cases Referred to Higher Institutions Cardiologist 7 19 Ophtometrician Investigations Done 253 Lab. test 6 Total Dental 4 Para Medical Assistants /Technicians. attended Female General Physician Doctors Attended Male Nurse 3 Average attendance per clinic ECG Out Patients Attended Cataract Reach out with Love: 43

44 Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba in His infinite mercy has given us two Super Specialty Hospitals, one in Puttaparthi and another in Whitefield, Bangalore. Both the hospitals are equipped with most modern equipments and offer free medical care for all patients. Every day poor patients unable to get good medical care due to the present day high cost of treatment flock to these hospitals. So far more than cardiac surgeries, Urology related surgeries and Neurology surgeries have been performed in these hospitals. Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organization, Tamil Nadu has taken up a new initiative to reach out to all the patients residing in Tamil Nadu who have benefitted from the above hospitals. Sai volunteers in every district would go to the patie ts ho es and enquire their well being. Invitation regarding a recheck up camp at the nearest Samithi is informed to them. Doctors and other Para medical staffs from the Sai medical fraternity would then conduct a thorough check up of their present health condition and guide them in leading a proper, healthy life. In some cases patients who require further medical treatment were advised to contact the Super specialty hospitals. The Medical team would also instruct them the need for regular medications and tests to be done at regular intervals etc. along with some simple exercises to keep themselves physically fit. ROWL Phase I ( ) In the first phase of ROWL, the list of patients treated at the both the SSSIHMS campuses was distributed to the PS Coordinators of the respective districts. All of them had put in their best efforts to ea h out to the e efi ia ies of Bhaga a s Lo e. The disp opo tio ate sp ead of the number of patients in a district and the number of PS coordinators in that district posed a major constraint in our efforts. We wish that we could have reached out to more number of patients and bring them to the mainstream Samithi activities. ROWL Phase II Hence in the next phase of ROWL exercise, we feel that it would be apt to provide the list to the respective DPs, who can engage required number of volunteers / Sevadals on the scheme according to the number of patients to be contacted in their district. In this 2nd phase, fresh list of patients from both PN & WF campuses of SSSIHMS (treated between June 2011 and July 2013) was received and they were sorted, segregated and distributed district wise. The total number of patients is 1211 (PN WF 909). The Calendar year 2015 was packed with more reach out programs across the districts of TamilnaduErode, Vellore, Kanchipuram, Nagai, Kanyakmari, Thirunelveli, Theni and Coimbatore. S.No. Date Location/ District No. of Beneficiaries Erode Vellore Madurai Theni Thirunelveli Coimbatore Kanchi, Nagai, Kanyakumari 19 Total:::

45 Tirunelveli District: On 24th April 2015 similar camp was organized at Sri Sathya Sai Bala Gurukulam Matric SchoolTirunelveli. Government Medical College Dr. Ravichandran and Senior Dialectologist Dr. Balakrishnan attended the camp and screened the 24 patients who were invited for the camp. Some of the patients shared their touching experiences and thanked Bhagawan for giving them a new lease of life. Coimbatore District: On 31st May 2015 a Sadhana Camp and medical check up for the patients under ROWL project was held at Sathya Sai Mandir, Race Course, Coimbatore. The program covers two important aspects. 1. Follow up medical check up by Cardiologist preceded by free ECG, Lipid test, Hb1Ac test and thyroid tests. 2. Explaining our role in bringing them and their families to our Sathya Sai Samithis giving them an opportunity to participate in Seva activities. S.No Date xx xx Location/ District Chennai West Nilgris Tanjore Trichy Tirpur Tuticorin Virudhunagar Tiruvallore Total::: No. of Beneficiaries

46 Trichy District: On , a program for Post operative check-up for beneficiaries who had undergone medical/ surgical process at Sri Sathya Sai Super speciality Hospitals at Prashanthigram/ Whitefield was organized at Sri Sai Mandir Aruna nagar, Srirangam, TRICHY Doctors and Para medical staff with ECG & lab facilities was arranged. The beneficiaries were examined by a panel of Doctors assisted with Para medical staffs. BP, Blood test and ECG tests were carried out and medicines were distributed to the ROWL patients. Similar Medical check up was done on to the new members / devotees from the rural areas of Trichy and Pudukottai, who attended the program. 39 beneficiaries attended the ROWL Program. Some of the beneficiaries narrated their experiences at the Super Specialty Hospitals. Shri Meenakshisundaram of RADIO SAI interviewed some of the beneficiaries of ROWL and recorded their experiences. The beneficiaries were overwhelmed with joy regarding the bountiful blessings bestowed upon them by Sri Sathya Sai Baba and the selfless Seva undertaken by Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation for helping the poor and needy cardiac patients. Many Christians and Muslims who were benefited by this surgery, voluntarily came forward to share their experiences in this interview. Tanjore District: The 27th September 2015 was indeed a memorable day, when Our Beloved Bhagawan Baba blessed me to take part in the "Hrudaya Sangamam" (ROWL Beneficiaries meet) program at Thanjavur, wherein 43 patients attended the program. After experiencing how Sai's Divine Love is expanding its horizons wider with every passing day and having witnessed the excellent arrangements made in organising the said event, I have pleasure in sending you this congratulating each and every one of your team for their selfless work. The coordination and participation of the Doctors & staff of Meenakshi Medical Hospital in the event was commendable. It was evident from their dedication & love for service and seemed as though the entire medical team from the hospital were all Sai Volunteers. We hope and wish that the district will continue to organise individual contacts / follow up actions for each of the said 43 patients and enable them to take more active part in our organisational activities regularly. Chennai West District: On 19th July 2015, the Chennai Metro West district had o ga ized a Hi udha a a ga a p og a for the 49 beneficiaries of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences of both Prasanthigram and Whitefield hospitals. The patients from Chennai, Tiruvallore and Kanchipuram districts were invited for the function wherein they were checked for their checked for their blood pressure, blood sugar and ECG. The doctors from the Sai Kripa dispensary of Anna Nagar participated in the camp. Dr.K.N.Reddy, Cardiac Surgeon, Dr. Dr.Ramasubramanian, Neuro Surgeon, Dr.K.Parthasarathy, Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr.K.Sundaramurthy, general medicine and Dialectologist and Dr.V.Bhaskar, General Medicine were among the medical fraternity who participated. The patients were then interviewed by the Radio Sai Tamil team for their experiences at the hospital who highlighted their divine experiences at these temples of healing. 46

47 Sai Rehabilitation Program: With the divine blessings of our most beloved Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba Varu, SSSRP Programme was successfully launched on Thu sda,.., the TAMIL NEW YEA DAY a d it has take a formal shape during Tamilnadu State Level Convener's Conference held on & respectively at Chennai. The large gathering was attended by our respected All India President, National Vice President, State President, State Office Bearers, District Presidents, District Office Bearers, and Conveners along with Co-coordinators from SSSIHMS Whitefield & Parthi. Many District SRP Coordinators have been nominated in Tamilnadu and are interacting with the Patients who were discharged from SSSIHMS Whitefield and Prasanthigram respectively. All the District SRP Coordinators have been briefed about the salient features of SSSRP including assigning local doctor, conducting Medical Camps/Hridaya Sangamam Meetings, obtaining Patient feedback report etc. Importance of regular INR checkups for valve replacement patients has also been highlighted and being done in various Districts. STATISTICAL HIGHLIGHTS PATIENTS DISCHARGE SUMMARY ( TO ) TOTAL NO. OF PATIENTS CONTACTED (OVER PHONE/PERSONAL VISIT) SSSIHMS, WFD SSSIHMS, PARTHI GRAND TOTAL NO. OF DISTRICT SRP COORDINATORS NOMINATED IN TN : SRI SATHYA SAI DISASTER MANAGEMENT TEAM (Tamilnadu) We all knew that Sri Sathya Sai Disaster Management program was started in the year 2002 and since then the faculty of trainers was conducting these specialized courses to the college students across the state. The course elaborately deals with the precautions to be taken in order to avert calamities caused by human errors, it teaches the participants how to react in the event of eventualities and rescue those in trouble. Since this is an action oriented course it assumed instant popularity amongst youth members of the State. The demand from many colleges to conduct such programs in their institutions/ organization is itself justifies the attractiveness and success of the program. Sri Sathya Sai Organization, Tamilnadu has taken Disaster Management programs as a medium to reach out to the youth segment and has been successful in inducting a few youths into our organization. 47

48 Training Modules: 1. DM Intensive training : This is purely for the Sai Sevadals / Sai Youths. 2. DM Trainers Training Camp : The interested DM team members are trained to conduct various programs. 3. Disaster Awareness Camp : A one full day course conducted usually for the college students. This also acts as a bridge between many college students and our Organization. 4. DM Preparedness : For the School students (3 hours program). So far the DM teams of Tamilnadu have trained POLICE PERSONNEL, FIRE & RESCUE PERSONS, TAMILNADU SPECIAL POLICE COMMONDOS, FISHER MEN, FOREST DEPARTMENT PERSONNEL, PARA MEDICAL & NURSING STAFFS (GOVT.), CORPORATES, NSS, NCC, JRC VOLUNTEERS WE ARE ONE OF THE REGULAR TRAINERS FOR THE POLICE PERSONNEL FROM 2009 ONWARDS SINCE 2008 WE WERE ALSO CONDUCTING THE PROGRAMS AT SRI SATHYA SAI UNIVERSITY, PUTTAPARTHI. ACROSS THE COURNTRY TRAINIED MANY OF YOUTH AND SEVADALS. OUR PROGRESS SO FAR in Training Dec 2014 = 49,955 Persons Disaster Management Training Programs conducted by the TN- DM Team Type of Program During the Half year (Apr Mar 2016) No. of Programs No. Attended Disaster Management Training Disaster Preparedness Program Disaster Awareness Program Total Highlights during the Period (April 2015 to March 2016) The Tamil Nadu DM Team (Men) got a chance to train our Sai Brothers on DM at various other states o o o o o Kashmir Punjab Nagaland MP Assam 48

49 DM & DA program at SSSVIP: Our Tamil Nadu team is mainly started focusing on the SSSVIP youth. The intention is to train and make them to act swiftly in times of requirement. Now started focusing more on this task. DISASTER MANAGEMENT INTENSIVE TRAINING SECOND SECTION: Fire & Rescue Training: KANCHIPURAM DIST. : One day special DM intensive training for Sai DM Youth conducted by at State DM Team, Tamil Nadu. Twenty seven trainers were given special training on the Fire & rescue with the support of the Fire Department. DISASTER MANAGEMENT INTENSIVE TRAINING TWO DAYS FOR MAHILAS AT DINDUGAL: AI AKTHI, Our State Disaster Management team conducted 2nd State Level Intensive Training camp on Disaster Management for Mahilas, at Dindigul on 25th and 26th of August The program is designed to achieve the following objectives To equip them with better confidence level, To enhance their expertise in rescue methods To enrich the subject knowledge and above all To share the subject knowledge and expertise by bringing together the entire mahilas DM team across the state in one place. A specially trained Mahilas faculty team conducted the training program with the able guidance of our state faculties. Specialized DA program at Ennore Sea Shore: Our Tamil Nadu team started focusing on all the sector of the public. The intention of this training made the fisher men about crossing the high tide with the support of a rope. 49

50 SAI DM TEAM TIRELESSLY DEDICATED IN RESCUE, RELEIF & SANITATION SERVICES DURING CHENNAI FLOOD. Actual Rescue during the floods with the support of temporary floods, boat, human chain etc. Basic Relief services - Providing required relief materials like foods, biscuits, water, medicine natural tonic (Nelavemu Kasayam) etc. C Cleaning ( Holy Sanitation) : It is one of the very vital service, we did complete sanitation works at Relief camps, flood effected area, which includes Government General Hospital, Chromepet. Doo to Doo dist i utio We took pa t i the dist i utio of " AI P A ADAM' i a cartoon boxes of materials like essential provisions, saree, dothie,mat, tooth paste, etc which are more than 21 items. We got an opportunity to distribute in the villages, hamlets, effected area etc. Through which more than 27,000 families (Approx) were benefited in and all around the Districts of Chennai, Kanchipuram., Trivallur and Cuddalore. The recipients were so happy and prayed for the well being of Sai members. 50

51 51

52 2nd District Level Disaster Management Program exclusively for Mahila members was held at Virudhunagar District on 8th and 9th of January Dr. V, Venkatraman, M.A., Ph.D., P i ipal, ajapala a ajus College deli e ed his ke note address about Disaster Management-Map Resourcing. He is one of the 16 member team in the National Disaster Response Team in India. He is looking after four states namely, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka & Pondicherry. He explained in detail about the Disaster Management Map Resourcing. He requested us to conduct certificated course on Disaster management for the college students which is going on successfully. He also insisted us to provide 25 members from our side who along with another 25 members from his side to make who shall collectively make a team of 50 and form a District Disaster Response Team, which will be first of its kind in India, and register the same with the District Collectorate. 4TH Dist. Level Intensive Training camp on Disaster Management, on 9 th and 10th Jan 2016 at Sivanantha Ashram, Ayyanar koil, Rajapalayam where in 49 Gents members participated. The program is designed to achieve the following objectives To equip them with better confidence level, To enhance their expertise in rescue methods To enrich the subject knowledge and above all To share the subject knowledge and expertise 52

53 SSSO Trichy organized a Disaster Management awareness program at Malayappanagar village situated at a distance of 55 kilometers from Trichy, in Kadai talk, Perambalur Dist. The unique feature of this village is that the inhabitants of this village are mainly Narikuravas, Nadodis and Kalai Koothadigal who belong to the most backward community of social stream. In spite of their social background, the youth of the village showed tremendous response to learn the techniques of DM and around 50 persons participated in the program held on 14th April 2016 conducted by DM trainers, Shri.Chandrasekhar of Trichy and Shri. Krishnamurthy of Salem, under the guidance of District Service Coordinator, Shri Srinivasan & our District president Dr.G.C.Vijaya sai prabu. First aid procedures were taught in this programme. Vellore-Walaja Samithi convener organized a district level industrial safety and training camp at his factory (ULTRA MARINE PIGMENTS PVT Limited- Ranipet) by Sri Sathya Sai Disaster Management Team, (Sri. SEAKR, State Coordinator, and Team) trained to workers on Around 175 workers were participated and benefited from in and around Vellore, Ranipet sipcot Industries (27 factories). The DM Team of TN once again got the opportunity to train SSSIHMS staff members on Disaster Management and Fire Safety training, One day Intensive Water Rescue Training was conducted for Members of Sri Sathya Sai Disaster Management Team on 6th March 2016 at Chithode - Erode Cauvery River. A team under the Head of Sri.R.K.Sekaran with the State Faculties trained the participa ts. 53

54 The program began at 8.30 am with Omkar and Sai Gayathri. Around 54 youth from various Districts participated in the camp. After a brief introduction about the program by the State Senior Faculties, the participants were immediately split into groups and taken to the high current Cauvery River for practical training. The DM Team leader instructed the gathering a out the dos a d do ts of ate es ue. Late the trainees were alerted about the precautions to be taken while rescuing and certain first aid techniques were also shared. Techniques Trained: To rescue a Victim drowning in water. To Climb a Boat and handling it. Walk on the Rope Bridge with the Victim. Rescue with the support of rope. Usage of improvised floats, etc. 3.6 Skill Schools and Vocational Training centresalmost all the districts in the state run a vocational training centre which equips the poor to learn type writing, screen printing, tailoring and the like. The State also has three vocational training centres at Thirukurangudi, Alwarthirunagari and at Naggapattinam. Plumbing, Electrical, carpentry and driving are taught to the students of the school so as to enable them to procure gainful employments. Exclusive Vocational training institute for women has been set up at T-Nagar, Chennai in the year Since then the institute has trained more than 1000 Mahilas to become self reliant. Empowering the under privileged mahilas in different streams to be self employed and also equip them seek gainful employment in the main objective of the VTC. Different courses like DTP, Tally, Tailoring, Agarbatthi making, Candle making, type writing, printing, painting, shorthand and beautician courses are conducted here. Apart from these vocational courses the mahilas attend Bhajans on every Tuesday, participate in Sundaram cleaning once a month and Bhajans at Guindy temple. They are also trained in vedam ha ti g a d pa ti ipate i eekl stud i les ased o Edu a e a d a i s tea hi gs. Sai Mitri Skill School at Puliyur is another centre which was started 5 years back exclusively dedicated for the Mahila members. Tailoring, Computer courses, embroidery, accounting, beautician courses were taught at this centre. Report on SSS RVTC One of the three National initiatives envisaged, as our humble and loving offering to our beloved SWAMI before 90th Birthday and also, as part of 50th anniversary celebrations of SSSSO, is ri athya ai Rural Vo atio al Trai i g e tres RVTC.These centres are proposed to be set up in rural areas in all the States. SSS RVTC will be unique, in that it is envisaged to train youth, from 54

55 SSS VIP Villages and cluster of villages, in multi skills. The choice of skills is such that they shall be able to pursue their profession in the village itself. The suggested skills are: Plumbing, Electrical wiring, welding, Carpentry, Mobile phone servicing, Two wheeler servicing, Mason, Motor rewinding, Bicycle repair, Tyre Puncture sealing, Bicycle repair, Basic Tractor and farm equipment servicing etc,. Four Centres have already been started and functioning in Tamilnadu : 1. Tirunagiri, Nagapattinam district. Started on Training in Plumbing, Electrical, Two wheeler servicing and Carpentry SSS RVTC coordinator: Sri. Thirunaganasambantham 2. Nanmangalam, Kanchi North district : Started on Training in Electrical, Plumbing, Two wheeler and Carpentry. SSS RVTC Coordinator: Sri.Ramakrishna and Sri. Jayaraman 3. Thirukkurungudi,Tirunelveli District : Started on 23rd November 2005 Training in Electrical and Plumbing 4. Chitthode, Erode District: Started on Training in plumbing, masonry and electrical. Details of SSSRVTC in Tamilnadu S.No. Name of the Centre No. of Batches completed No. of Trainees 1 Nanmangalam Tirunagari Tirukarangudi Erode 1 4 Total Chennai Metro West district- Mahilas skills VTC, T.Nagar. th The 15 anniversary celebrations of mahilas skills school, T. Nagar was celebrated on 19 th March 2016 in a very grand manner. Sri. R. J. Rathnakar, member, Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust along with his wife Smt. Himavahini graced the occasion and christened the restructured skills school building as ai Pushpa jali. Follo i g this t. HI a ahi i lighted the kuthu ilakku a d i augu ated the celebrations. The program began with Veda parayanam followed by bhajan and devotional songs rendered by skills school mahilas. Sri. T. G. Krishnamurthy, ex- State President introduced the chief guests and addressed the gathering. Sri. G. Varadhan, State President delivered the welcome address and special address was delivered by Dr. V. Mohan, Convener, Sri Sathya Sai Trust, Tamil Nadu. Following this a video documentary on the Vocational Training Centre (VTC) was telecast. Certificates were issued by Smt. HImavahini to the skills school mahilas who had successfully completed the course. Sewing machines were offered to the mahilas by Sri. R. J. Ratnakar and Sri. V. Srinivasan. Mementos were offered to the mahilas rendering Seva in the skills school by State Spiritual Coordinator, Smt. Soundarya Krishnamurthy. The chief guest of the occasion Sri. R. J. Ratnakar delivered a very special and memorable speech. After the cultural program by balvikas children, Sri. N. Ramani, National Vice President delivered memorable gifts to the participants. Vote of thanks was delivered by Sri. P. Suresh Kumar, District President, Chennai Metro West. The skills school mahilas shared their experiences. In this program members of Sri Sathya Sai Trust, Tamil Nadu, district office bearers, samithi convenors and members participated. The celebrations concluded with maha mangala arathi to Bhagawan. 55

56 Chennai Metro West district- Sri Sathya Sai Mitri Skills School The 4th anniversary of Sri Sathya Sai Mitri Skills School being run by Puliyur samithi was celebrated on the auspicious occasion of Good Friday on 25th March 2016 at Choolaimedu Chinnamani Valiyammai Kalyana Mandapam in a very grand manner. The activities of the skills school initiated for the benefit of the mahilas were highlighted through a video show presentation. Following this cultural program by balvikas children and skills school mahilas was held. Smt. Saraswathi Ramanathan, Director, Kannadasan Tamil Sangam presided over the function and delivered special address. Certificates and sewing machines were issued to 24 mahilas who had successfully completed the course. Mementos were offered to the balvikas children who participated in the cultural programs. The skills school faculty were also honored during the function. 3.7 SSSVIP Agri Initiatives: The 8th phase of seed supply facilitating meeting and farmers seminar for increasing the yield of Agricultural & Horticulture crops was held on 11th October 2015 Sunday at Government Elementary School, Suranviduthi Village, Tiruvaran Kulam Block, Pudukottai D.T. Around 84 Farmers and 20 SSSSO members and office bearers of from different parts of Pudukottai, have participated in the Seminar. ACTION PLAN Suggested by the Agriculture Scientists 1. The Joint Director of agriculture Pudukottai suggested to get one planting machine by the SSSSO under 25% subsidy and can circulate, among devotee members farmers for planting paddy crop since the cost of labour for 1 acre planting of paddy is Rs /- where as the cost of planting with machine comes to only Rs. 3000/acre. There by each member devotee famers can save Rs. 7000/- acre. The cost of planting machine is Rs. 12,00,000/- (Bigger) Rs. 4,00,000/- (for smaller size). The planting machine can be maintained by collecting nominal ha ges fo diesel, D i e s ata a d fo ai te a e of wear tear charges of machine from SSSSO members farmers as done for drinking water supply of RO plant. This can be taken up on pilot basis. 2. Group of SSSSO member farmers to give seed requirement with variety (Paddy / Pulses /Groundnut, hybrid maize, water melon) for coming season to the convener, Surenviduthi / District President Trichy. So as to effect consolidated supply from department of agriculture/ National Seed Corporation of India, Syngenta India Ltd., Sungro Seeds etc., 3. To get and distribute among SSSSO member farmers Redgram,Vamban 6 Variety from central Pulses Research Centre. The progress so for made for 7 phases of seed supply facilitating meetings and farmer seminars is summarized below: Quantum of Paddy & Potato Seed Supplied to SSSVIP farmers With the divine blessings of our beloved Bhagawan 6 phases of seed supply facilitating meetings and farmer seminars were conducted as below. Crop technology and field problems were discussed in detail for the benefit of SSSVIP Farmers and SSSSO Members / Techno Co-ordinators 56

57 Phase Date Place 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th Villupuram Sirkali Gobichettipalayam Tirunelvelli Hosur Ooty Salem Total No. Of SSSVIP farmers benefited No. Of SSSSO members benefited A total of 1048 SSSVIP farmers and 283 SSSSO members / techno co-coordinators were benefited with the knowledge of crop technology. Various field problems for crops of paddy, groundnut, pulses, banana, turmeric, watermelon, Cut Roses Drip irrigation Poly houses Coffee, Tea, Spices Potato, Carrot, Cabbage, Cauliflower, etc., were discussed in detail. Department of agriculture/ Department of Horticulture/ TN Agri university/ Various research stations Krishi Vignankendra National seed corporation of India Private seed producer Sungro- have participated in these seminars for enlighten of crop technology for Higher Yield and for seed problems and seed production. A total quantity of 23.2 metric tonnes of paddy seed (Genetically pure) was distributed to 585 farmers of SSSVIP villages, in various districts. Besides paddy seed, 50 litres of Biopesticide neem kernel extract (Azaridichitin) was also distributed at free of cost to 80 farmers. Ooty farmers procurement made for potato crop - seed 30 Mt -10th April 2014, 60 Mt- 4th April 2015, each potato farmers saved Rs. 18,000/- to 22,000/- per Acre. The total concession obtained by Paddy farmers is Rs. 3,79,180/-. 9th phase of seed supply facilitating meeting and Farmers Seminar on Held at Government Higher Secondary School, Vittampalayam, Tiruchengodu Taluk, Namakkal D.T. - Tamilnadu With the Divine blessings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba varu, the Ninth phase of seed supply facilitating eeti g a d Fa e s se i a fo i easi g ield of Ag i ultu al a d Ho ti ultu al ops as organized by SSSS Organisations Tamil Nadu at Government Higher Secondary School, 57

58 Vittampalayam, Tiruchengodu Taluk, Namakkal D.T. - Tamilnadu on The venue is a village right amidst farming community with major crops of Pulses, Paddy, Sugarcane & Vegetables. The programme commenced with Registration of farmers and office bearers at 9.30AM followed by Vedaparayanam Astothram and Sai Bhajan. Around 63 Farmers and 30 SSSSO members and office bearers of from different parts of Namakkal, have participated in the Seminar. Sri. K.Saiprasad, State coordinator of Agri and Rural Development explained the purpose of se i a. He e alled Bhaga a s spee h at Prashanthi Nilayam during inauguration of Sri Sathya Sai village integrated programme during 2007 stressing importance for Agriculture and concern for Farmers. He a ated his past e pe ie e a d Bhag a s Co e fo poo fa e s he e i the produce all food grains for others and eat by themselves a day before leftover food and drink porridge. Tamilnadu having adopted 109 villages under SSSVIP programme working for the upliftment of farmers. He narrated his past experience between in Erukkuvoy Village of Thiruvallur District about the enthusiastic participation of the farmers to the seed programmes. He stressed the importance of quality seed of improved varieties which plays a key role in increasing yield by 20%. He requested farmers not to take unnecessary chemical spraying there by it will kill all beneficial insects and the No. of harmful insects will increase, and will damage the crop. The motive of SSSS Organisation is only Seva and facilitate to strengthen the link between National Seed Corporation of India, Agricultural Extension wing, and TNAU Research at one end and the farmer at the other end. He made a request to the District President Namakkal & Techno Coordinators to identity Devotee farmers in a cluster and get their requirement of seeds for supply like paddy, Groundnut, improved pulses to the farmers at their door steps at lesser cost in consultation with National Seed Corporation of India, Dept. of Agriculture. 58

59 SSSVIP- Aqua care With our beloved Bhagawan's grace, today, (i.e. 26th January 2016) our State President, Shri.G. Varadhan Sir inaugurated a PURION water filter, at SSSVIP Village at Arambakkam, adopted by Tambaram Samithi, at Sai Garden, where every month Mobile Hospital is conducted every month. Shri Varadhan Sir, distributed 5 litres can of purified water, to 5 beneficiaries of the village. Before distribution of purified water, Shri Varadhan sir, emphasised about Sathya Sai Mission of giving pure water, free education and free medical facilities to the needy. This purified water of 5 litres water-can will be given to all the villagers on rotation basis. In addition it will also benefit the villagers who will be coming to the Medical Camp. This water purified with a capacity of 100 litres/per hour. INAUGURATION OF RO WATER TREATMENT PLANT AT DEVADHANAM (SSSVIP VILLAGE), THIRUVALLUR DISTRICT ON SATURDAY, 23TH JANUARY, 2016 With the Di i e Blessi gs of ou Bhaga a RO Water Treatment Plant was inaugurated at Devadhanam (SSSVIP village), Thiruvallur District on Saturday, 23th January, 2016 by our State President Sri. G Varadhan. 59

60 3.8 Information technology Initiatives: With the blessing of our Bhagwan this new initiative was started in the State of Tamil Nadu during the month of Jan A State Coordinator was appointed to oversee & develop project, keeping in mind the ever increasing activities of the organisation and a need to store huge database of our ever growing Sevadals, beneficiaries under various projects, archiving the important events and for creating awareness about the width and depth of the assignments undertaken by the SSSSO-TN. These activities have driven us to take up specialised IT related initiatives as a dedicated and focused wing of our state. We are confident that this new initiative would sustain and support the projects of the organisation in a more structured and effective manner. Project 1 First such project was taken up for BALVIKAS, were a dynamic Portal is developed under the URL a soft launch was done on Mother Easwaramma day The USP of the portal will be as follows: 1) Provide a ready reference material for BV Gurus and Tutor support for the BV Students. 2) Streamlining a hierarchy based module of reporting starting from BV Guru- EC-DEC and then to SEC finally. As it is web based it can be seen on a pictorial version for easy understanding the growth in various regions. 3) Identifying the BV centers for new and old parents. 4) E a li g EC to se d egula updates a d i ula s di e tl to all the BV Gu u s ith information shares with DEC and Ec for necessary follow-up s the e i gi g high le el of transparency in the communication and ensuring that messages reach down the line for action. 5) Showcasing the BV related programs held across the State. 6) Po tal also p o ides s lla us g oup ise, to e su e all BV gu us follo th oughout the state uniformly. Currently the projects is developed in three phase. The phase 1 of the portal was officially launched on eve of GURU PURNIMA DAY 2014 The phase 2 will have online examination integrated, The Phase 3 will have e-learning Project 2 The second project was taken up for Mobile Hospital under two category, The first one being a website under the URL (Hosted and currently online) has all the features of Camp locations, route map, Seva forms for Doctors and Sevadals are available for registration The second category of the mobile hospital project is the automation of the operations, here again it is done on three phase. First phase of the activities: Registration and pharmacy module. Second phase: integrating the medical equipments (EMR) such as x-ray, ECG & ultra sound along with pathology reports to our software. 60

61 Thirds Phase: is to have the entire thing web enabled where by doctors could give their opinion from the respective hospital. A Core software development team has been formed to develop our own hospital software package tailored to suite our requirement this will be a web enabled software. We hope this activity will be completed and ready to release during the 89th birthday of our beloved Bhagwan. Project 3 A web portal is under development stage for our state under the URL This is again a portal, where we shall be having online member ship egist atio fo to aptu e all data s right from the Samithi level. The USP of this portal is that we shall be bringing up all the activities of the State under these web pages. The project is under development stage now. Project 4 A very ambitious project on an ecommerce platform is under development with the URL The portal covers the entire Books and Publications trust activity this includes the Sanathana Sarathi online subscription (renewal /New). The portal will have good security layers to ensure the transactions done through this portal are highly safe and secured. The USP of this portal would be where district could place their bulk orders directly and also check their tracking details of the delivery. A payment gateway is also being created so that partially or full payment can be made directly and receipt could be downloaded for their reference. We are also in the process of developing software which could handle all our inventory and daily sales using the POS (point of sales) where billing could be done using barcode system. Feather on the cap: The recently held TN State level Balvikas Talent search program held on 24th and 25th December 2014 at Kumbokonam was webcast live through our state BV website- People around the globe enjoyed watching the live proceedings of the program. 3.9 Chennai Relief Works- Gratitude Program- on 26th December 2015 The unprecedented deluge and the consequent flooding had submerged most of the low lying areas of Chennai, Thiruvallore, Kanchipuram and Cuddalore districts. This jeopardized the whole city causing many families to get dislocated from their homes. A single gush of ravaging waters washed away their lifelong savings, household articles and left their lives devastated. As relief during this calamitous circumstances, Sri Sathya Sai Seva organisation swung into action to provide a family kit of 32 household items to more than families across these affected districts. Distribution of these relief materials to the stranded families provided the much needed solace as it could sustain a family of four for a fortnight. The whole operation involving procurement and packing was done so meticulously and swiftly to complete it in a record time of fifteen days. This has been made possible by the work of nearly 600 volunteers of our organization along with nearly 500 members of general public who extended their helping hand in packing the family kits with relief materials. Moreover, members from various parts of Tamilnadu and from other states of India have volunteered to provide these provisions. In humility, as expression of thankfulness to our Beloved Bhagawan, Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation organised a "Gratitude program" on Saturday, 26th December 2015 at 4.30 pm. It was recollected that Sundaram- the Divine Abode of Sai in Chennai was looking as a Bhoolaka Vaiku tha du i g the 61

62 relief operations as it had turned into a store house of abundance of not only relief materials but also e tal elief. ai Volu tee s e e at u da a to a out His issio of Ma a a e a is Madha a e a. The floods in Chennai had provided them an opportunity to work united for this Divine cause. The selfless service of Sevadals was truly appreciable as they would continue to work late in the night without any signs of fatigue. Needless to say, the Divine power was working through every one to complete this mammoth task. Sri.V. Srinivasan - Trustee of the SSSCT, Sri. Nimish Pandya - All India President of SSSSO(I), Sri. N. Ramani - National Vice President of SSSSO, Padmasri. Dr. V. Mohan - Trust Convener of SSST-TN and Sri.G. Varadhan - State President of SSSSO-TN were among the dignitaries who shared their memorable moments and applauded the service of the volunteers. G. Varadhan, welcomed the gathering for the function thanking Bhagawan for granting us this unique opportunity to serve Him. He thanked all the elders who guided the members of the organization and complimented all those who eagerly participated in this massive operation. Dr. V. Mohan, highlighted how the deluge has dismantled all walls of differentiation in society such as between the rich and poor, young and the old, and between castes. He congratulated all the members who joined the organization in this testing time by contributing both in cash and kind and executed this relief operation with utmost purity in their hearts and prayers in their lips. Six beneficiaries across the districts of Thiruvallore, Chennai and Kanchipuram districts narrated their experience and thanked Bhagwan for sending them not only the much need immediate relief of food but also essentials to kick start their life again. They conveyed their wish to participate in the Parthi Seva as a mark of their gratitude to pay their obeisance to the Lord for saving them from disgraceful situation. 62

63 A visual presentation of the whole operation was showed bringing out the highlights of selfless service and dedication of the Sai Volunteers. Sri. Nimesh Pandya, saluted the sevadals of Tamilnadu for accomplishing this colossal feat of serving the humanity on this occasion unmindful of their own hardships. Sri.V. Srinivasan, highlighted the ability of the organization to respond rapidly to the calamitous situation and serve the humanity at large. He stressed the fact that every Sai Centre shall henceforth provide refuge and rehabilitate the li es of the i ti s a d ea Bhag a s g a e. Sri. Vijayakrishnan, State Youth Coordinator thanked one and all who stood beside Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation and made this operation a memorable one. The program concluded with Mangala Aarthi to Bhagwan. 63

64 4.1 Sri Sathya Sai Balvikas Quantitative Report SRI SATHYA SAI BAL VIKAS HALF-YEARLY REPORT STATE: TAMIL NADU Upto March STATISTICAL DATA Group - I CENTRES Group - II Group - III School Rural/Village Urban Slum SSSVIP Special* TOTAL No. of CENTRES in STATE Master Trainers GURUS MALE GURUS FEMALE TOTAL Resource Persons Gurus TOTAL Master Trainers Resource Persons Gurus TOTAL School Rural/Village Urban SSSVIP Special* Rural/Village Urban Slum SSSVIP TOTAL TOTAL No. of STUDENTS in STATE TOTAL No. of GURUS in STATE STUDENTS - BOYS Slum TOTAL School STUDENTS - GIRLS Special* 64

65 Group-I 2. TRAINING PROGRAMMES No. of Master Trainer Training Programmes Conducted at State Level No.of Gurus Trained in Master Trainers Training Programmes at State Level No. of Master Trainer Training Programmes Conducted at District Level No.of Gurus Trained in Master Trainers Training Programmes at District Level No. of Gurus Training Programmes Conducted at State Level No. of Gurus Trained in Gurus Training Programmes Conducted at State Level No. of Gurus Training Programmes Conducted at District Level No. of Gurus Trained in Gurus Training Programmes Conducted at District Level Group-II GroupIII TOTAL PARENTING PROGRAMMES TOTAL No.of Parenting Workshops / Training Programmes conducted at State Level - No.of Gurus and other Participants at State Level Workshops / Programmes - No.of Parenting Workshops / Training Programmes conducted at District Level 5 No.of Gurus Trained in Parenting at District Level 30 No.of Parents Meets Conducted 1225 No.of Parents participated during the Parents Meets 4. PAST STUDENTS ACTIVITIES No.of Past Students Conventions conducted at State Level No.of Past Students participated in State Level Conventions No.of Past Students Conventions conducted at District Level No.of Past Students participated in District Level Conventions TOTAL No.of Gr-III passed / Past Students in SSSSO TOTAL No.of Gr-III Convocation Graduates (Cumulatively) 2 TOTAL Male: - Female: 2 Male: 22 Female: 42 Male: 708 Female: 665 Male: 495 Female:

66 4.2 State Balvikas Qualitative Report for the period April 2015 to March 2016 Summer course on Indian Culture and Spirituality Summer course on Indian Culture and Spirituality is a regular event being conducted at Sri Sathya Sai Nivas, Perambur during summer holidays to create awareness about Indian Culture and Spirituality. This year, the Summer Course was held from April 30, 2015 to May 2, 2015 and was atte ded stude ts f o a ious s hools. The the e of this ea s u e Cou se as Path a to u ess. peake s deli e ed spee hes alo g ith po e poi t p ese tatio s o various topics such as Effective Communication, Success through practice of human values, 5Ds, Effective use of Time, Self-confidence-power of prayer, etc. A quiz was conducted on the last day based on the topics covered in the three days, in which all the participants performed creditably. Prizes were given to the outstanding performers. All the students were awarded with certificates on the last day of the camp. Gurus Training Programmes during the period Jan June 2015 Group I No. of Gurus Training Programmes Conducted at 15 District Level No. of Gurus Trained in Gurus Training Programmes 251 Conducted at District Level Group II 24 Total District/zonal level training for Balvikas Gurus on revised Group II syllabus was organized in Coimbatore, Pondicherry, Erode, Thirunagari, Ambattur, Chennai North, Hosur and Chennai West. Resource persons from various districts handled sessions on Veda, Bhaja Govindam, Young Sai, eligio s, Festi als, Bhaja s, Bhaga ad Gita,Fi e D s, Ceili g o desi es a d i ath a ai Astothram. Games during Gurus Training Programme Convocation at the District Level Convocation day was celebrated in almost all districts with great enthusiasm by students, parents and gurus. The fruits of 9 years of labour in Sri Sathya Sai Balvikas got culminated on the convocation day. The Balvikas students, gurus and their parents were anxiously awaiting the celebrations. The programme in all centers commenced with Veda chanting, to invoke the blessings of our Bhagawan. Certificates were also 66

67 issued to the Group-ll completed students during the convocation. In Trichy District, the Convocation address was delivered by the Chief guest, Dr.S.Sundararajan, Director, National Institute of Technology (NIT) Trichy. His speech was thought provoking and when he mentioned especially, about Swami's water project, Disaster Management Training, and the service rendered by the team in the areas of natural calamity, the audience were spellbound. He was over-whelmed while narrating the working pattern of Super specialty Hospital both at Bangalore and Puttaparthi. He specifically pointed out that the balvikas is an excellent programme and is a solution to all the problems of youth today. He also mentioned that among the various extracurricular programmes organized for the new entrants in NIT, the disaster management programmes organized by Sri Sathya Sai organizations, Tamilnadu gets the highest rating by their students. Dr. Sundararajan was happy to distribute certificates for Group II and Group III students' altogether, 56 students. 47 in Group II and 9 in Group III. 26 Bal Vikas students from Group II & III were also awarded prizes and certificates for the State Level competition. He was extremely happy to be in the midst of Bal Vikas.. Summer Beatzs Kids Contest On May 1st 2015, a Summer Beatzs Kids Contest for all children (open for all students) was conducted in Kancheepuram (North) district. There were 83 contestants from 10 schools in the Nanganallur area for whom both academic and spiritual topics were given for oratorical competition. Balvikas Group II, III exams August 2015 Group II and Group III exams were conducted across all the districts of Tamil Nadu on 30th August Details regarding number of Students who appeared for the exams in the year 2015 S no Group Group III Group III Group II Group II Gender Boys Girls Boys Girls Number State Balvikas Gurus participation in All India Balvikas Gurus training 20 Balvikas gurus attended the All India Balvikas Gurus training for group I Gurus held at Prashanthi Nilayam on 29th and 30th July Three of our State Balvikas Gurus (part of our Master trainer group) gave a presentation on the topic Technology Integration in Balvikas. They supported the session with PowerPoint presentations, flash based games and Mobile applications. Ample examples of technology use in balvikas classes according to the knowledge and competence of the Balvikas Gurus with respect to technology were demonstrated. The 45 minute session was very well received. Special Activities and celebrations a i s th Birthday Exhibitions on Life and Message of Swami As a pa t of a i s i thda ele atio s, the e as a state Bal ikas di e ti e to ha e a e hi itio on Life and Mission of Bhagawan, nine point codes of conduct and Unity of Faith. Almost all the districts of Tamilnadu conducted exhibition during the period June to October The exhibitions saw huge participation by Balvikas children, alumni and Gurus. In Thiruvallur District around 362 members saw the exhibits. Balvikas children explained their projects through models, charts, digital presentations and interactive games. 67

68 In Chennai Metro North, the exhibits ranged from life-like odels of a i s uildi gs su h as Colleges, Hospital and Sarva-Dharma Stupa to other models depicting various events in the life of Bhagawan as well as the Nine Point Code of Conduct and Human Values taught by Swami. The children also explained each of the exhibits in detail to all the visitors. Due to the overwhelming response to the exhibition, the same exhibits were displayed on August 2, 2015 also, enabling more number of schools to see and benefit. About 600 people including Balvikas parents, School Balvikas children, teachers and general public viewed the exhibition at Sri Sathya Sai Nivas, Perambur. Totally 65 school balvikas children from three of our centers saw the exhibition. There was a quiz organized for these children based on the exhibits and teachings of Swami. Children participated enthusiastically and prizes were given to all the children. District Level Exhibition on Nine Code of Conduct was organized by Chennai Metro West District at Panigraha Kalyana Mandapam on 16th August 2015, in which Balvikas Students from all the Samithis participated along with Gurus. More than 700 people visited the exhibition. In Coimbatore, Exhibition was held from September 30th to October 4th in a grand manner. Exhibits included were Panchamathas, Bakthi, ceiling on desires, Awareness on Balavikas, swamis messages etc. 68

69 In Kanchi North the exhibition was held on 19th July at Shankara School, it had an overwhelming response. Around 300 members saw the exhibits. Temple Cleaning by Balvikas Children As pa t of a i s th i thda ele atio s the e as a state di e ti e to take up te ple cleaning across all districts of Tamilnadu. Almost all districts involved their Balvikas children, parents in this programme. A spiritual tour was organized for Balvikas children and their parents of Chennai Metro North at Sri Gnana Maha Saraswathi Temple near Periyapalayam where the children took part in Veda chanting and rendering of Bhajans. The Balvikas children also participated with whole hearted devotion in the temple-cleaning activity at Arani Amman temple, which is 500 years old. 90 Days Balvikas Programme Chennai Metro South As pa t of a i s th i thda ele atio s, Che ai Metro South had a 90 day Balvikas programme commencing from 15th August. Balvikas children, alumni and the Gurus participated in large numbers. Each of the 30 Samithis of Chennai Metro South were allotted 3 days each for balvikas celebrations. Celebrations ranged from exhibitions, inter school singing competition, inter school drawing competitions, Villupattu, Devotional singing programme, dance programme, Pallak Seva, Chess tournaments for children, dramas, debates, Dance Drama on Ramayana, Koti archana, walk for values. It was a three month long festivity. 69

70 Disaster Management Programme Disaster Management Awareness training programme for group III Balvikas students of Thiruvallur District was held at Sethu Kshetram Porur on June 7th The programme started at 9 AM with Bhajans by Balvikas children, followed by Power point presentations on Introduction to disaster awareness and the Science of natural disasters Cyclones, Earthquakes, Floods, Tsunami and landslides by District DM team. 55 Group III students, 15 Gurus and 15 BV Alumni participated in this programme. District Level Disaster Management Training for Group III Balvikas students was held by Chennai Metro (West) District, at VTC, T Nagar on 26th July 2015, in which the total number of participants were 32 (17 Boys and 15 Girls). Disaster Management for Group III 21st February The Sri Sathya Sai Disaster Management Task Force of Tamilnadu, in consultation with the State Education Wing of SSSSO, has customized a special half day module for the Group III Balvikas students and has been successfully conducting such workshops over the past few years, covering both the theoretical aspects and demonstration sessions. In Chennai Metro West District, the Disaster Awareness and Preparedness Programme was conducted on 21st February 2016 at Sai Pushpanjali. A large contingent of Group III students who attended the workshop thoroughly enjoyed the programme. There has been tremendous feedback from the Balvikas parents who have also requested for such trainings for themselves too. In Chennai Metro South 42 children from The Hindu High School Triplicane participated in the Disaster Management programme on May 1 st held at Sundaram from 9am to 1.30pm. Disaster Management workshop was conducted in Tirupur. 73 children attended the programme. Disaster Management Chennai West 70

71 District Level Balvikas Talent Search The District Level Balvikas Talent Search was conducted in all the districts during the period June to November Details regarding number of participants (all three groups) as follows - S.No. Name of the district Chennai South Chennai West Chennai North Thiruvallur Erode Kanchi North Salem Trichy Number of participants Participation of Balvikas Alumni in SSSSO activities Narayan Seva In the district of Pondicherry, Balvikas Alumni students along with the district youth wing organized a mass narayanaseva and distributed food to the needy on the 19th July. Children themselves cooked the food. Nearly 75 food pockets were prepared. ANSWER PAPERS EVALUATION BY PAST BALVIKAS STUDENTS: 30 past Balvikas alumni from Thanjavur district evaluated the answer papers of Group II and Grouplll and assisted the state educational coordinator in publishing the results district wise/group wise in a o th s ti e. It is o th e tio i g he e that they have been enthusiastically doing this service for the past five years. Short Film Production I Ta ja u Dist i t, a sho t fil e i e as p odu ed, di e ted fo a i s a Bal ikas Alu th birthday The Maste us. Ka thike a. ho taught Lo e a d Participation in Vidya Vahini Many of our State Balvikas Alumni are involved in the Vidya Vahini project for schools. This year a Balvikas alumnus by name Arumugam from Chennai Metro North received an award at Sai Kulwant Hall in the month of November for the best power point presentations for Vidya Vahini. State level Balvikas Talent Search 2015 The gurus and children brimming cup of joy began overflowing when their efforts were crowned with tremendous success during the Balvikas State Level Talent Search For more than three decades, Balvikas children from all over Tamilnadu, Gurus and Parents assemble to celebrate the oneness of Humanity. Children display their talents in varied means. Madurai was the chosen venue for State Level Balvikas Talent Search Events were conducted in Sri Mahatma Gandhi 71

72 Vidyalaya, Madurai on the 25th. 24th Dec was an evening of entertainment for all those assembled with cultural programmes by the Balvikas children of Madurai. The school had spacious classrooms, computer labs and an auditorium to accommodate all the events. Relief and Rehabilitation Seva - Chennai Floods The 1st of December, Chennai received a massive spate of rains four months of monsoon in one ight Che ai had the o st floodi g i a e tu. A idst this u p e ede ted ala it a d devastation, Chennai witnessed another surge of flooding a etted the to e tial ai s of elfless Lo e hi h pou ed out of the hea ts of e e Che aite surpassing all barriers of caste, creed, language, status, position and authority. For us, as earnest seekers of the One Absolute Truth, assembled under the umbrella of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organizations, it became a living and loving experience to witness the humble execution of Bhaga a s essage of Lo e All a d e e All, a d pla the p o e ial s ui el s ole i the assi e humanitarian outreach of our Organization in the relief and rehabilitation activities taken up in and around Chennai. 'Sundaram', Bhagawan's abode in Chennai, transformed into a spectacle of selfless service. Every inch of its space, right up to the door of Swami's room in the first floor, was filled with relief material. Hundreds of youngsters and various Samithi members were actively engaged in making the 'Sri Sathya Sai Prasadam' kits. Many members from Chennai Metro and surrounding districts comprising of Balvikas gurus, past and present Balvikas students, Sevadals mahilas and gents, and Youth wing members, participated in the daily seva at Sundaram spread over a period of about twenty days - right from day one until dispatch of relief materials in the trucks and offering of gratitude to Swami. Besides the centralized seva at Sundaram, Balvikas children, parents and Balvikas alumni participated in huge numbers in cooking, packing and distributing food packets and water in their respective localities. As the roads were not motor able, handcarts and tricycles had to be deployed for carrying and distributing the food. Wading the waist high water level, the youth wing members 72

73 including Balvikas Alumni and Sevadals untiringly participated in this noble seva, reaching out food and water to more than 500 families in each of the localities. Balvikas Alumni meet at Prashanthi Nilayam 16th, 17th January A a e p i ilege of ei g Co plete Bal ikas as o fe ed upo hu d eds of Bal ikas stude ts o the 17th morning. The session commenced with a Band procession that was followed by a p o essio of Bal ikas gu us, stude ts a d offi e ea e s es o ti g the s oli Wa d of T a sfo atio, e te i g the ai Kul a t Hall. A so g of ado atio to Mothe Ga ath i, a a oga Ni a i i Ga ath i a o pa ied the p o essio, su g all the stude ts i u iso. The band team by the SSSIE, Male Female Total Nemilichery displayed their talent Category during the convocation. The Tamilnadu Convocation students State Balvikas and alumni students were Present Group-lll blessed with the opportunity of BV-Alumni chanting Vedas at Sai Kulwant Hall. BV Gurus There was an enthralling musical presentation by the Balvikas Alumni of Total Tamilnadu. State Level Balvikas Gurus Group I training 13, 14th February As per National Balvikas directives, a state level Balvikas Group I Gurus training was conducted on the 13th, 14th February 2016 at Sai Pushpanjali, T.Nagar, Chennai. Totally 81 delegates including the District Educational coordinators, Group I Gurus and some New Gurus from various districts of Tamil Nadu participated in the two day training programme. The programme commenced with flag hoisting and inaugural address by the National Vice President, Mr. Ramani. This was followed by the State Educational Coordi ato s talk o ole of Bal ikas Gu us. I o de to e uip the Bal ikas Gu us with the necessary knowledge, resource, techniques all topics were dealt in detail. Shlokas, Bhajans, Story Telling Techniques, Silent Sitting, Group Activities, Preparation for a Balvikas Class, working and usage of the Tamilnadu Balvikas Website were covered. The participants interacted enthusiastically during all the sessions. The faculties from various districts of Tamil Nadu made the sessions very interesting. The delegates were directed to conduct similar programmes in their districts for all Group I and new Gurus. The Districts were also given a chance to exhibit some of the games, models and activities they had used in their group I classes. Detailed instructions were given regarding the National Balvikas wing Survey. Forms were distributed to all the District educational coordinators. 73

74 Sports for balvikas Children In Thiruvallur district, Ennore Samithi conducted 3rd Sai Vikas Sri Sathya Sai unity cup cricket tournament for less than 18 years BV boys and RANGOLI competition for less than 18 years BV girls was held on at ETPS SKODA GROUND at Ennore. 11 teams for cricket ( each team 7 boys) represented by Porur, Ambattur, Villivakkam, Thiruvottiyur, Korattur, Ennore Samithis and Manali new town mandali participated in the tournament. Manali new team emerged winners and the runner up was Ennore team. 8 teams for Rangoli (each team 3 girls) from Porur, Ambattur, Redhills, Villivakkam, Korattur and Ennore participated. Ennore, Redhills and Ambattur bagged the first, second and third prizes respectively. In Erode, Sports was Conducted on April 17 at Sathya Sai School, Chithode. Around 200 Students participated from Various Balvikas centres including Rural Balvikas centres like Ayamedu, Villarasampatti, Sathyanagar, JJ Nagar, Sengodampallam, Kavindapadi, Muthukalimadai, Kolathupalayam, Suriyampalayam, Choolai etc. Balvikas Children invited Swami with Poorna Kumbam. Convocation in Districts It is a known fact that only the chosen ones enroll into the Balvikas programme and only the most blessed ones continue their journey through the entire nine years to complete the course. As always the practice, the group III children received their diploma certificates in a grand function in their respective districts amidst Vedas, Bhajans and Oath taking ceremony. Chennai Metro South celebrated this joyous occasion on the 31st January, Thiruvallur district on 2nd April, Chennai Metro North on 21st 74

75 February, Chennai Metro West on.kanchi South on 30th January Winners of State Level Talent Search, participants of various cultural programmes at Prashanthi Nilayam and Balvikas Boys and girls who successfully completed their group II were also honored with certificates, gifts and mementos. Details of Group 3 passed out Students in district wise District Boys Girls Total Chennai North Chennai Metro South Chennai Metro West Coimbatore Cuddalore Dindugal Erode Kanchi North Kanchi South Kanyakumari Madurai Nagapattinam Puducherry Salem Thanjavur Nilgiris Thiruvallur Thoothukudi Tirunelveli Tirupur Trichy Vellore Virudhunagar Total

76 Medical camp and District-level Parents Meet A district-level medical camp was organised at Sri Sathya Sai Nivas, Perambur, on March 20, 2016 exclusively for Balvikas Children and their parents of Chennai North district. The medical camp included testing for blood sugar and blood pressure. A team of doctors including gynecologists, pediatrician and lab technicians offered their services at the camp. The medical camp was wellattended with almost 200 people (including Balvikas children and parents) benefitting from it. Along with the medical camp, a District-le el pa e t s eet as o ga ized the sa e da. Medi al a p was also organized in Chidambaram, Cuddalore district. NEW GURUS ORIENTATION As per the State Education directive for conducting Balvikas Gurus Group I training, almost all districts had the orientation programme for New Gurus and Group I Gurus in almost all the districts. Bhajan Yajna As part of the celebrations of the 90th year of advent of our beloved Bhagawan, a 90 hour Bhajan Yajna was held at Sundaram from April 29 to May 3, Balvikas children from many districts participated in this yajna. A one hour slot was given to the Bhajan Vikas children in which around 100 boys and girls participated and led bhajans enthusiastically. Bhajan Yajna As part of the celebrations of the 90th year of advent of our beloved Bhagawan, there was a State directive to have Balvikas Akhand Bhajan and also bhajans in the houses of Balvikas Children round the year. As per this directive almost all Samithis of the districts conducted bhajans in the houses of Balvikas children. Balvikas children, Gurus, Parents and Balvikas alumni participated in good numbers in all the districts. 76

77 Balvikas Akhand Bhajan Velachery Samithi, Chennai Metro South Balvikas Bhajan - Trichy House bhajans at Bal ikas hild e s houses e e o du ted i Thi u allu dist i t o Ju e th a d June 14th bhajans were done by Balvikas children on 27th September at Sri Sathya Sai Nivas, Perambur, Chennai Metro North. 90 Bhajans were also held in Cuddalore district in July as well as in December in which Balvikas students and Gurus participated along with parents and other members. 90 days Special Bhajans were held by Tanjore District from June to September in which 55 Balvikas children and alumni took part. Gayatri Chanting As per the State Balvikas directive to offer a total of one crore Sai Gayatri at the Divine lotus feet as pa t of a i s th i thda, ai Ga at i ha ti g as do e i all Bal ikas lasses f o the o th of January Chanting was done by Balvikas students, parents, Balvikas alumni and Gurus round the year. Avatar Day celebrations Avatar Day was celebrated in almost all the districts with Aumkaram, Suprabhatam, Nagarsankeertan, Special bhajans, Pallak Seva, Narayan Seva and cultural programmes by Balvikas children. In Thiruvallur district on Sunday, October 18th 2015 at Sri Sathya Sai Seva Samithi, Pattabiram, program started with Aumkaaram, Suprabhatam, and Veda chanting by Balvikas students. Akhanda bhajan started at 6 AM. Akhanda bhajan ended with the students singing the haja Maa asa haja e gu u haa a a. Total of al ikas stude ts a d gu us pa ti ipated i the event. Thiruvallur Avatar Day Bhajans A district level rally was organized on October 11, 2015 to celebrate the Avatar Day in Chennai North. More than 200 children participated in the rally which started from Sri Sathya Sai Nivas, Perambur. They held placards with sayings of Bhagawan Baba. Bhajans were also led by Balvikas students. The children also performed various dances such as kolattam, bhangra, kavadi, karagattam and Shiva Tandava dance. Cultural programmes were organized in Cuddalore district at Nevyeli, Koothapakam and Chidambaram as part of Avatar Day celebrations. 77

78 Global Akhanda Bhajan Balvikas children participated enthusiastically in the Global Akhanda bhajan at Sri Sathya Sai Nivas, Perambur on 14th and 15th November. Undeterred by the heavy rain and floods, around 50 Balvikas children sang bhajans with devotion and enthusiasm during the Balvikas slot on 15th November. There was active participation by Balvikas alumni during both the days especially by the alumni boys who sang bhajans throughout the night of 14th. 88 Balvikas Children and 20 Balvikas Alumni along with 30 parents participated enthusiastically in the Global Akhand Bhajans at Tiruvallur District. 112 Balvikas children and 35 alumni participated in the Global Akhand Bhajans in Tanjore District. Second group and third group children of Srirangam Samithi sang Bhajans for nearly four hours in Akanda Bhajan on 14 Nov. Bhajan Vikas A new batch of Bhajan Vikas Training for Boys & Girls was started on 4th July 2015 for the Balvikas boys and girls of Chennai Metro South, North, West districts. 62 boys and 70 girls have been inducted into this 12 week programme. This is the 4th batch for girls and the 3rd batch for boys. Bhajan Vikas Valedictory at Sundaram 9th January The Valedictory function of Bhajan Vikas Girls batch V and Boys Batch IV was held at Sundaram on 9th January Around 65 girls and 60 boys from the three districts of Chennai Metro West, South and North received medals and certificates for successful completion of the 12 week Bhajan Vikas course. Boys and Girls enthusiastically exhibited their project work and received trophies for their outstanding performance.. In Kanchi South, On 20th March, veda vikas and Bhajan vikas Phase I for Balvikas children was started in 6 centers viz., Poondi Bazar, Tambaram, Guduvancheri, sothupakkam Kancheepuram, Chengalpatu and Sothupakkam. Celebrations MahaAaradhana Day was celebrated in all the Samithis. Bal vikas students along with gurus and parents participated in various service and spiritual activities like Nagar sangeerthan, Gayathri Homam, Ganapathy Homam, Navagraha Homam, Sahasra nama archana, Maha Narayan seva, vastra dhanam, rudram paaraayaam, palki seva, buttermilk distribution, Akhanda Gayathri japam and bhajan. 78

79 Easwaramma Day Celebrations Throughout the State, Easwaramma day was celebrated for a week and it was observed as a gratitude week. Various activities were undertaken by the balvikas students with the assistance of gurus, parents and Samithi members. Service activities like Butter milk distribution, Narayana Seva, Vasthra Dhanam, Jabla and baby kit to new born babies, visit to old age home, Pallaki seva, and distribution of notebooks and boxes to the needy were mostly undertaken in all Samithis. Mathura Pooja was also performed by the students to their parents/grandparents as per Vedic di tu Math u de o ha a, Pit u de o ha a. O the fi al da Cultu al P og a e as organized which showcased the multi-faceted talents of the children. Some of the Samithis conducted Balvikas Rally Zone wise as a part of Easwaramma day celebrations. Guru Poornima celebrations In Srirangam, Balvikas children participated enthusiastically in the Guru Purnima celebration. A speech on 'Guru Vyasa' was given followed by a skit 'Guru Mahima'; bhajans were led by children. In Chennai North, Guru Poornima was celebrated in Sri Sathya Sai Nivas, Perambur, on July 31, 2015, with a special Bhajan in the evening which saw participation by Balvikas children in large numbers. Guru Purnima was also celebrated at various school Balvikas centers where the children spoke on importance of reverence to Gurus. The teachers were very happy, blessed the children. 79

80 Guru s Trai i g District Level Gurus Training for Groups I, II and III were organised in the districts of Chennai Metro West, Tanjavur, Sivakasi, Padavedu (Vellore District) during the period July to October. A total of 523 Gurus have been trained in this two day programme. Krishna Jayanthi and Vinayaka Chaturthi celebrations Balvikas boys and girls participated in the Aumkaram, Suprabhatam and Nagar Sankirtan at Sri Sathya Sai Nivas, Perambur on September 5th for Krishna Janmashtami and on September 17th for Vinayaka Chaturthi celebrations. Ex-Balvikas boys and girls who are currently in the Sri Sathya Sai Nivas bhajan group participated in the rendering of devotional songs on the occasion of Krishna Janmashtami. Navaratri Celebrations As part of Navarathri celebrations, chanting of Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswathi Ashtotrams was done and Archana performed on many of the districts. Balvikas Alumni and girls participated in large numbers. A Pooja was organized on Vijaya Dasami Day on 22 October 2015 in Cuddalore district to mark the Maha Samadhi of Shri Shirdi Sai Baba in which 113 Balvikas children participated. In Srirangam and Kanchi North districts, Balvikas girls participated actively in the Navaratri Kolu and sang devotional songs. Bhaga a s irthday ele ratio s As pa t of Bhaga a s i thda ele atio s, Bal ikas hild e f o al ost all the dist i ts of Tamilnadu participated in the decoration of the altar, hoopla decoration, flower decoration, lighting, photography Prasadam packing, Distribution, Special bhajans, Pallak seva, Narayan Seva and a host of other activities. There were cultural programmes by the Balvikas children in almost all Samithis. A musical concert was performed by a Balvikas alumnus Sai Preeti at Sri Sathya Sai Nivas, Perambur on November 21, She was accompanied on the mridangam by another Balvikas student Pranav. Ou elo ed Bhaga a s i thda ele atio s ea hed its ze ith o No, d he all Samithis wore a grand festive look. Balvikas Gurus, BV alumni and BV children came forward to make the celebrations very memorable. 80

81 Bhaga a s Bi thday celebrations in Kanyakumari district comprised temple cleaning on November 8, Jyothi meditation on November 11 and a cultural programme on November 21 in which Balvikas children and alumni participated with enthusiasm. In Cuddalore district, a cultural programme was organized on November 21 with participation by 60 children. A parenting cum Magic Programme was also conducted by Sri Viswanathan of Chennai which was highly informative as well as entertaining and was well attended by 35 Balvikas children and 45 parents. 50 Balvikas children and 45 parents also participated in the Veda Parayanam and special Bhajans on November 23. Bal ikas all i o e tio ith a i s th Bi thda celebrations was held at Sundaram on 22 November 2015 from 8 am to 9 am. In this more than 150 students and 50 gurus participated. In spite of the heavy rains on that day and the previous days, the students sang bhajans and went th ough the st eets a ou d u da a ith a i s Cha iot following behind. Tanjore District Balvikas hild e ele ated a i s birthday in a grand manner with numerous programmes throughout November such as Mathru Pooja, Blood Donation, Narayan Seva, Virada Kalpa Pooja, Cultural Programmes and Bhajans. a i s th i thda ele atio s e e ele ated in Thiruvallur district Samithis throughout the week mostly by the way of helping people affected by flood through Narayan Seva and distribution of blankets, etc. In addition, cultural program by balvikas students, mass villakku Pooja and sahasranama chanting, ekadasa rudra parayanam, special bhajan, Jhoola and Pallak Seva (procession) were also organized by various Samithis in the district. 81

82 Sri Sathya Sai Vritha Kalpa Pooja - 7th February In Chennai North, Sri Sathya Sai Narayana Vritha Kalpa pooja was done on for the parents of Balvikas children. The highlight of the programme was participation of parents who are non devotees. They were extremely happy and appreciative of this gesture. Sai Hayagrivar Homam 28th February In Chennai North, Sri Sai Hayagrivar Homam was done on as a special prayer and pooja for the Balvikas students appearing in the 10th and 12th examinations. Parents also participated whole heartedly. This homam saw an immediate increase in the Balvikas strength. In Tirupur, special prayers were conducted and pens were distributed to 10th and 12th standard students. Special motivational speech and guidelines were given to the students. Both Balviaks and non Balvikas children participated in this programme. Shivarathri Shivarathri was celebrated with great fervor in almost all the districts of Tamilnadu. On March 7, The day began with Suprabhatam and Nagar Sankirtan in which Balvikas children participated. Ex-Balvikas students lead the Bhajans in the evening. The night long Bhajans during Maha Shivaratri has been an important event in the Annual Calendar of almost all districts. This year too, with the enthusiastic participation by all members, the Maha Shivaratri Bhajans which commenced at 6pm on 7th March concluded with Maha Mangala Arathi at 6am on 8th March. 82

83 Cultural Programmes by Balvikas children in Prashanthi Nilayam October, November 2015 As pa t of Bhaga a s th i thda ele atio s, the e as a Ta il adu Week of Festi it f o 25th Oct to 31st Oct at Prashanthi Nilayam. Cultural programmes were staged by the Balvikas children and Balvikas alumni of Tamilnadu. Details as follows Skanda Vaibhavam 27th October Balvikas children from 12 districts of Tamilnadu namely Trichy, Salem, Tirupur, Pondicherry, Coimbatore, Erode, Kanchipuram South, Nilgiris, Madurai, Chennai Metro South, North and West districts presented a colorful theat i al p ese tatio ka da Vai ha a o the lege d of the ka da Pu i a o th O to e at the ai Kul a t Hall i P asha thi Nila a. The presentation, with great metaphorical import, aired the message of annihilation of avidya or ignorance, depicting the victory of Jnana. This colorful, spectacular theatrical presentation was interspersed with Narration, Bharatanatyam and folk dances of Tamilnadu such as Kaal-Kolattam, Poikkal Kudirai Attam, Oyilattam, Badugas Dance, Silambhattam, Karagattam, Mayilattam, Karagam, Kavadi, Kummi and Kolattam. This programme that was webcast live on RadioSai received heartwarming feedbacks from different parts of the world. Gaanamrutham Devotional songs by Balvikas Alumni Girls The Bal ikas Musi al F ate ity of Tamil Nadu presented a bouquet of devotional songs titled Gaa a utha o th O to e at the ai Kul a t Hall, P asha thi Nila a. A out Balvikas Alumni girls from 10 districts of Tamilnadu rendered soulful devotional songs. The theme of this musical ensemble was adoration of the redeeming power of Divine Darshan, highlighting on the astounding power of Divine benediction. Beginning with an invocation on lord Ganesha, in vernacular Tamil, the musical session continued with stotras and songs in Sanskrit, Telugu, Hindi and Ma ati. The u e s i luded a allu i g i ga a ela e De aa o the e uisitel ha i g beauty of Lord Subramanya, with interspersed swaras, the evergreen Katrinile Varum Geetham and a short Bhajan Medley, highlighting the glo of Na as a a a. A lu id o e ta i te spe sio se ed as a add-o, aki g the p ese tatio o e lea. The sessio o luded ith a I st u e tal E se le i ol i g Violin, Flute, Tabla, Mridangam and Ghatam, transporting the audience, with a short burst of inciting Rhythmic Fusion, to sheer ecstasy. 83

84 Seetha Rama Kalyanam Dance Drama 31st October Seetha Rama Kalyanam a musical dance drama on the 31st October marked the grand-finale of the week-long Tamil Nadu Cultural Festivity in the Divine Presence. Around 38 Balvikas girls from the State of Tamilnadu performed this Musical Dance Drama on the Celestial Wedding of Lord Rama with Mother Sita. The drama in English, with dance and music interspersed, ran through the Ramayana epic illust ati g ajo e e ts, egi i g ith the Putra Kameshti Yaga, o e i g e e tful a tio s to ul i ate i the ost auspi ious Celestial Ma iage of Lord Sri Ramachandra with Mother Sita ensuing heavenly delight. 84

85 Sathya Sai Satcharitra Dance Drama Nov 18th 2015 A Natio al Le el theat i al p ese tatio titled i ath a ai at ha ita i ol i g a ou d Balvikas children from various States of India was staged on Nov 18th, 2015 at Sai Kulwant Hall, Prashanthi Nilayam. This Musical Dance Drama was an offering on the illustrious Life and Teachings of Bhagawan, presented in 5 acts. Browsing through His Story from the days of Immaculate Conception of the blessed Mother Easwaramma, the presentation covered various facets of the illustrious earthly sojourn of the up e e Godhood, a el, His Bi th, Childhood, Lo e I a ate, Glo U ou ded, Tea hi gs, Service Mission, etc. Around 67 Balvikas children from the districts of Chennai Metro West, South, Kanchipuram North and the Sathya Sai Institute of Educare, Nimilicherry participated in this National Balvikas programme. 5.1 Activities at Sundaram Regular Activities Activity Periodicity / Duration Abishekam to Shirdi/ Sai Sundareswarar Daily Evening Rudram to Sai Sundareswarar Daily evening Playing Radio Sai program relayed from Prashanthi Nilayam Morning : 7 am to 12 noon Evening : 3 pm to 5 pm Night : 7 pm to 8:30pm Veda Teaching Class All Thursdays Vibuthi packing by 10 Mahilas All Mondays Garland making by 30 Mahilas All Thursdays, Sundays and Festival days in the forenoon Shramdhan by Men Sevadals All Sundays Cleaning of Sundaram premises and puja articles by Samithi Mahila members on rotation All Days Duty for Men Sevadals on rotation from Chennai Metro Day time duty 3 numbers Night time duty 2 numbers All Days Multimedia Reading Room All Days 9 am to 1 pm and 3 to 5:30pm Book Stall All Days 9:00 am 8:00 pm Blood Bank (volunteers on rotation) All Days 06:00 am 10:00 pm Recording of RadioSai programs in Tamil for broadcasting from all Saturdays 7:30-8:30 pm Every day 85

86 Regular Features at Sundaram: Activity Days Activity st All 1 Sundays 05:00 am: Omkaram, Subrabatham and Nagarasankeerthan 06:3007:30 am: Puja to Shirdi Sai and Sai Sundereswar Mahila Day 19th of every month Early morning Omkaram, Subrabatham and Nagarasankeerthan and later followed by Sai Sahasranama Archana. Bhajans by Mahaila group was done in the evenings. All Sundays &Thursdays 4:30 pm : Video Show on Bhagawan. 5:00 pm : Veda Parayanam. 5:30pm 6:30 pm : Bhajan by Sundaram Bhajan group All week days other than Thursdays Bhajans conducted by three Chennai Metro districts, Kanchi (North and South) and Tiruvallur district Samithis from 6pm to 7pm in rotation. All Pradosam day evenings Rudram chanting with Abishekam to Sai Sundareswar conducted by the Veda Group All Thiruvadirai star days a i s i th sta Ekadasa Rudram chanting with Abishekam from 6 am to 9 am. This is usually attended by hundreds of devotees. Special Festivals/ Events Saturday, 14th November am am am pm Omkaram, Suprabatham and NagarSankeertanam Mangala Vadhyam Nadaswaram and Prashanthi Flag Hoisting Abhishekam and Pooja Lighting the Lamp of Love and Commencing the 24 Hour Global Akanda Bhajan till pm on 15th November, 2015 Sunday, 15th November pm Maha Mangala Aarthi and Prasadam Distribution Monday, 16th November am am am noon pm pm pm pm pm Mangala Vadhyam Abhishekam and Pooja Sri Sathya Sai Sahasranama Archana Distribution of Food Packets and Prasadam to residents of Sundaram Salai and Greenways Road Video Show on Bhagawan Veda Recitation by Chennai Metro South Devotional Music Vocal by Sri. Sunil Gargyan & Party Bhajan by Chennai Metro South Maha Mangala Arathi followed by Prasadam Distribution 86

87 Tuesday, 17th November am am am noon pm pm pm pm pm Mangala Vadhyam Abhishekam and Pooja Sri Sathya Sai Sahasranama Archana Narayana Seva Video Show on Bhagawan Veda Recitation by Chennai Metro West Devotional Music Vocal by Ms. K. P. Nandhini & Party Bhajan by Chennai Metro West Maha Mangala Arathi followed by Prasadam Distribution Wednesday, 18th November am am am noon pm pm pm pm pm Mangala Vadhyam Abhishekam and Pooja Sri Sathya Sai Sahasranama Archana Narayana Seva Video Show on Bhagawan Veda Recitation by Chennai Metro North and Thiruvallur Devotional Music Vocal by Sri. Easwaran Bhattadri & Party Bhajan by Chennai Metro North and Thiruvallur Maha Mangala Arathi followed by Prasadam Distribution Thursday, 19th November 2015 Mahilas Day am am am am noon pm pm pm pm pm Omkaram, Suprabatham and Nagarsankeerthan (Mahilas) Mangala Vadhyam Abhishekam and Pooja Sri Sathya Sai Sahasranama Archana Vastradhanam to Expectant Mothers and Narayana Seva Video Show on Bhagawan Veda Recitation by Sundaram Mahila Group Devotional Music Multiple Veena Melody by Smt. Vee a agha a s I stitute h ee Naada Va sha Bhajan by Sundaram Bhajan Group Maha Mangala Arathi followed by Prasadam Distribution Hema Friday, 20th November am am am noon pm pm pm pm pm Mangala Vadhyam Abhishekam and Pooja Sri Sathya Sai Sahasranama Archana Narayana Seva Video Show on Bhagawan Veda Recitation by Chennai Metro South Devotional Music Vocal by Mishrants Troupe Preethi Bharath & Party Bhajan by Chennai Metro South Maha Mangala Arathi followed by Prasadam Distribution 87

88 Saturday, 21st November am am am noon pm pm pm pm pm Mangala Vadhyam Abhishekam and Pooja Sri Sathya Sai Sahasranama Archana Narayana Seva Video Show on Bhagawan Veda Recitation by Kanchipuram (North) and Kanchipuram (South) Devotional Music on Keyboard by Master. Rohit and Party Bhajan by Kanchipuram (North) and Kanchipuram (South) Maha Mangala Arathi followed by Prasadam Distribution Sunday, 22nd November am am am am am 12 Noon pm pm pm pm Mangala Vadhyam Abhishekam for Sai Sundareswarar and Shirdi Sai Baba Bal Vikas Rally from SUNDARAM Nagar Sankeertan Route and Ends at SUNDARAM by am Musical Programme presentation by Sri Sathya Sai Alumni (Anantapur Campus) Sahasranama Archana Narayana Seva Live Telecast of 34th Convocation of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning Devotional Music by Sri. Kadiri Gopalnath (Saxophone) & Party Bhajan by Sundaram Bhajan Group Maha Mangala Arathi followed by Prasadam Distribution Monday, 23rd November am am am am am 12 Noon pm pm pm pm pm pm Omkaram, Suprabatham Rathothsawam with Nadaswaram, Veda Chanting and Bhajans Homam and Abhishekam for Sai Sundareswarar and Shirdi Sai Baba Programme Presentation by Alumni (Gents) of Sri Sathya Sai University Sahasranama Archana Vastra Dhanam and Narayana Seva Video Show on Bhagawan Veda Recitation by Sundaram Veda Group Devotional Music by Smt. Kanyakumari (Violin) & Party Bhajan by Sundaram Bhajan Group Maha Mangala Arathi followed by Prasadam Distribution Blanket Distribution for the Pavement Dwellers by Sai Youth 88

89 Special Festivals/ Events Festivals Date Activity New Year Celebration :00 am: Omkaram, Subrabatham and Nagarasankeerthan 06:30-07:30 am: Puja to Shirdi Sai and Sai Sundereswar New Year Calender and Laddu Prasadham were distributed to devotees 4:30 pm : Video Show on Bhagawan. 5:00 pm : Veda Parayanam. 5:30pm 6:30 pm : Special Bhajan by Sundaram Bhajan Group 6.30 p.m. : Maha Mangala Aarthi SUNDRAM 35th Anniversary Celebrations :00 am: Omkaram, Subrabatham and Nagarasankeerthan 06.00am: Mangala Vadhyam and Flag Hoisting 06.15am: Abhishekam to Shirdi Sai am:10.00 a.m.: Mrithunjaya Homam to Sai Sundereswar 10.30am: Sahasranama Archana 12 noon : Vastra Dhanam and Narayanaseva 3:30 pm : Video Show on Bhagawan Visit to SUNDARAM on Various Occasions 4:00 pm: Veda Parayanam pm : Devotional Music by Mahilas of Sundaram Bhajan Group 5.00 pm: Prayer Dance by Bal Vikas Children 5:20 pm: Violin Duet by Dr. Lalitha and Dr. Nandhini and Party 6.20 pm: Bhajans by Sundaram Bhajan Group 7.20 pm: Maha Mangala Aarthi SUNDRAM 35th Anniversary Celebrations 23rd & 24th January 2016 As a part of the 35th Sundaram Anniversary Maha Rudra Japa Yagnam was conducted at Sundaram in which Youth Wing Members took part with 121 Rithviks for conducting Homam in 11 Homa Kundams. Satsang To 6.00p.m. Talk with musical presentation by Smt. Saralakumari of Kuppam Family on Paatha Mandir Days between 1943 and 1950 Maha Sivarathri to 6.00p.m. to 6.00a.m. : Akhanda Bhajan p.m. to 2.00 a.m. : Special Abhishekam and Poojas with Rudhram Chantings to Sri Sai Sundareshwarar Swami materialised Vibhuthi on HIS Picture in Small Bhajan Hall at Sundaram am 4.00 pm : 91 Bhajans was rendered by Chennai South am 4.00 pm: Disaster Management Training for Mahila Sevadals 89

90 Bhaga a s Aradha a Mahotsa Sundaram Chennai on 24th April 2015 The 4th Aradhana Mahotsavam of our beloved Bhagawan began at 6:00 am with Ekadasha Rudra abishekam and homam. Pancharatna Keertana musical homage was offered to Bhagawan Baba from 10:00 am to 11:30 am by renowned musicians Padma Vibhushan Tiruchur Ramachandran, P. S. Narayanasamy, Charumathi Ramachandran, Anuradha Krishnamurthi, Sikkil Mala Chandrasekar (flute), Mudikondan Ramesh (veena) and a band of young vocalists. All the participants were honored with a shawl. In the afternoon Narayana seva was conducted. In the evening the p og a e o e ed ith ideo sho of Bhaga a s di i e da sha follo ed a spe ial address by Dr. Sri. T. Venugopal (Dirctor Research, Sri Chandrasekara Saraswathi Maha Vidyalaya). This was followed by Veda parayanam, musical recital by Sundaram mahila bhajan group, bhajan by Sundaram bhajan group and the daylong celebrations came to a close with maha mangala arathi to our beloved Bhagawan. Laddu prasadam to the devotees, around 1000 in number, who swarmed to offer their homage to Bhagawan Baba. Tamil New Year Sundaram, Chennai on 14th April 2015 th Ta i Ne Yea s Da as ele ated o April 2015 at Sundaram, the abode of Bhagawan in Chennai with spiritual fervor. The day long programme commenced with Omkaram, suprabhatham and nagara sankeertanam followed by special pujas and abishekam to Sri Shirdi Sai Baba and Sai Sundaraeswarar and Sahasranamrchana. In the evening the programme began with video show on Bhaga a s isit to Che ai follo ed Veda pa a a a, usi al p og a e Cal utta i. V. N. Shankar, bhajan by Sundaram bhajan group and the day long programme came to a memorable close with maha mangala arathi to our beloved Bhagawan. 90 hours bhajan Sundaram A hou s haja ag a o e o ati g ith Bhaga a Ba a s th birthday celebrations was planned by Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, Tamil Nadu. With the divine blessings of our beloved Bhagawan, the bhajan yagna commenced on 29th April 2015 at 6:00 pm with Veda Parayanam and concluded on 3rd May 2015 at 7:00 pm with Maha Mangala arathi to Bhagawan and prasadam distribution. In this bhajan yagna, students from Prashanthi Nilayam campus conducted burra katha and renowned musicians conducted Nama sankeertanam and Samithi members from all districts of Tamil Nadu participated as per their respective slots and made the yagna a grand success. Leading Bhajan Composers and Well Known Bhajan Singers who came to Sundaram to take part in this Yagna, included : Allepy Shri. Hariharan Shri. T.V. Hariharan Shri. Tippu & Smt. Harini Shri. Maruti Prasad Dr. R. Ganesh Brindavan Bhajan Group Shri. Raviraj Nasery Shri. Sumeet Tapo Devotees flocked in large numbers to attend this Bhajan yagna. Sundaram was reverberating with aesthetic and festive look all through the yagna. Training workshop for Mahilas on GDM held on June 14, 2015 at Sundaram 90

91 The WINGS workshop for community workers (lay people) was conducted on ) at Sundaram, Chennai and it was a mega hit and success! Nearly 250 lay people (115 women and 135 men) from 26 districts of Tamil Nadu attended the workshop. Also in attendance were Dr. Ram Manohar Rao who was the Medical Co-ordinator of the Sri Sathya Sai Medical projects in Tamil Nadu state as well as Mr. Suresh Chander who is the co-ordinator in charge of the National Nutrition Program of the Sri Sathya Sai Organization in Tamil Nadu, the two key players who are responsible for the dissemination health awareness across Tamil Nadu. The level of participation was extremely good and it was also interactive with a very active question and answer session. This was conducted by the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF) in collaboration with the Sri Sathya Sai Organization, Tamil Nadu State, under the auspices of the WINGS and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) with the support of Abbott Fund. 91

92 The State President of Sri Sathya Sai Organization Mr.G. Varadhan sent his greeting and best wishes for the workshop. The State Vice President of the Sri Sathya Sai Organization, Tamil Nadu, Mr. Suresh introduced the faculty members and welcomed MDRF, IDF and the WINGS team to the event. Dr. V. Mohan then took over the proceedings and conducted the workshop. He gave the first talk o I t odu tio to the Gestatio al Dia etes Mellitus hi h as follo ed a talk o Dieta Ma age e t of Gestatio al Dia etes a d Diet du i g p eg a Ms. Tha ga a i, Head, Depa t e t of Dieteti s a d Nut itio at D. Moha s Dia etes pe ialities Ce t e. The next speaker as D..M. A ja a, Vi e P eside t of MD F a d she spoke o Ph si al A ti it fo the p eg a t o e a d ith spe ial elatio to GDM. The next speaker was Dr. Uma Ram who spoke on the Ta gets to e a hie ed du i g p eg a the outcomes and the follow up care needed after deli e. Dr. Kayal, IDF Co-ordinator for the WINGS study fi all spoke a out the Tools a d booklets that had been developed du i g the WING P oje t. These were then distributed to all the participants with detailed explanations about how to use them. There was a fairly long interactive question and answer session, with the participants giving their feedback about the workshop as well as clarifying their doubts. Fi all, the akes a d Ladde ga e as o du ted. Participants were divided into groups of 15 and they played the game. There was much excitement during the game. The majority of the participants were village health workers belonging to the Sri Sathya Sai Organization. However there was even participation from some of the government staff nurses. There are people who reach out to pregnant women all over Tamil Nadu in various districts in over 100 villages adopted the i ath a ai O ga izatio, he e ai P otei a ut itious p otei supplement is given to all pregnant women. Awareness about GDM was thus seamlessly integrated into the National Nutrition Program, one of the national programs undertaken by the Sri Sathya Sai Organization. Overall, the response was extremely positive and there was a request to conduct similar programs, and also a request to screen the pregnant women in some of these villages. Bhag a s th Birthday Celebrations: All through 10 Days Narayana Seva was conducted at SUNDARAM on an average for 1000 people and particularly on 19th November 2015 the Mahila Day Vastra Dhanam was given to for more than 92

93 60 Pregnant ladies. On 23rd November 2015 because of the heavy down pour rain Vastra Dhanam (distribution of Cloth and Blankets ) Scheduled for night was diverted and taken for distribution during flood relief operations in the subsequent days. In spite of the heavy down pour the Program went on and concluded very well by Bhagawans' Grace. During the sudden floods in Chennai between 1st December 2015 to 6th December 2015 SUNDARAM became the centre for preparation and distribution of Lunch and Dinner on an average to 2000 people for all the areas surrounding SUNDARAM at their door steps. From 6th December 2015 Packing of Nos. Of Flood Relief Material Pack began (which involved on an average of 500 Sevadals / per day, containing 32 essential basic household items) and was completed by 20th December On 25th December 2015 Gratitude Program was organised. Sri. V. V. Srinivasan, Central Trust Member, Sri. Nimesh Pandya, All India President, Sri. N. Ramani, National Vice President, Dr. Sri. V. Mohan, Trust Convenor, Sri Sathya Si Trust, Tamil Nadu and Sri. G. Varadhan, State President, SSSSO, TN. The program was attended by more than 1200 participants who directly involved in the Flood Relief Operations and some of Chosen beneficiaries from various flood affected areas. Maha Rudhra Japa Yagnam As part of the 35th Anniversary Celebrations of Sundaram, a MAHA RUDRA JAPA YAGNAM is being arranged for the presiding deity "Sai Sundareswarar" ( at Sai Sundareswarar Temple situated at Sundaram) during the auspicious Arodhra star which falls on 23rd and 24th of January th Anniversary of Sundaram With the divine blessings of Bhagawan Baba, the 35th anniversary celebrations of Sundaram, the headquarters of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, Tamil Nadu was celebrated in a very grand manner. The day long program commenced at 5:00 am with Omkaram, suprabhtham and nagarasankeertan. At 6:00 am amidst mangala vadyam, Prasanthi flag was hoisted. Following this abishekam to Sri Shirdi Sai Baba and Maha Mriityun jaya homam was conducted in the premises of Sri Sai Sundareswarar temple. 93

94 At 10:30 am Sahasranama archana was conducted which was followed by vastra dhanam and Narayana seva to the poor and needy. The evening program commenced at 3:30 pm with a video show p ese tatio highlighti g Bhaga a Ba a s hol isit to u da a du i g the este ea s. Veda parayanam, devotional songs rendering by Sundaram mahilas bhajan group and prayerful rendering dance by balvikas children were held. A soul stirring violin recital by Dr. Lalitha and Bhajans by Sundaram bhajan group followed course and the day long program concluded with maha mangala arathi to Bhagawan. Sundaram was aesthetically decorated for the celebrations which was a feast to the eye. At the end of the program cracker display reverberated the festive occasion. Moreover during the bhajan video clippings of the auspicious occasion of Bhagawan Baba inaugurating Sundaram was telecast which ensured a special place in devotees hearts. As part of the anniversary celebrations of Sundaram free woolen blankets were distributed to more than 400 deserving, homeless pedestrian dwellers. The entire six Metro Sai districts participated in this unique seva. MahaShivarathri The akhanda bhajan at Sundaram on the holy occasion of MahaShivarathri on 7th March 2016 commenced with the lighting of akhanda jyothi by Dr. V. Mohan, Trust Convener, Sri Sathya Sai Trust, Tamil Nadu. At around 05:30 pm Ekadasha Rudra Mahanyasa japa and holy abishekam was performed to Sri Sai Sundareswarar. In the early hours of the dawn on 8th March at around 02:30 am arathi was offered to Bhagawan. The akhanda bhajan concluded at 6:00 am with maha mangala arathi to Bhagawan. All through the night, Devotees in large numbers participated in the akhanda bhajan in their respective allotted slots. 94

95 5.2 Activities across the Districts: April 2015 May 2016 Sri Sathya Sai Mitri Skills School 3rd anniversary celebrations- Chennai Metro West district The third anniversary of Sri Sathya Sai Mitri Skills School, Trustpuram, Puliyur was celebrated at Pandian Hall, West Mambalam on 3rd April 2015 in a grand manner. Convener of Puliyur Samithi delivered the welcome address. A video and audio presentation of the activities undertaken at the skills s hool as tele ast. Follo i g this a skit Gu u Mahi a gao as e a ted the skills s hools and BAL vikas students exemplifying the teachings of Sri Adi Sankara, Sri Madhwacharya, Sri Ramanujar and Bhagawan Baba. Sri L. Raj Mohan, member Sri Sathya Sai Trust, and district president presided and delivered special address. The chief guest for the function Padmasri Dr. Siva Chidambaram addressed the gathering and distributed sewing machines to 6 students and certificates to the passed out students. Tokens of love were offered to the bal vikas students and teaching faculty of the school by the district president, dharma zone coordinator, district mahila service coordinator and Samithi conveners. The skills school coordinator delivered vote of thanks and the function came to a memorable close with maha Mangala Arathi to Bhagawan. The families of the skills school students too participated in the function. Bhaga a s th Aradhana Mahotsavam- Chennai West District West Mambalam Samithi ele ated Bhaga a Ba a s A adha a Mahotsa a as a th ee da programme from 24th to 26th April On the first day Narayana Seva was performed to 60 families residing in slum clearance board houses. The second day programme was held at Panigraha Kalyana Mandapam. The programme comprised of a video show on Bhagawan, bhajan and jyothi dhyanam. On the third day programme included Veda parayanam, vibhuti abishekam to Sri Shirdi and Sri Sathya Sai Baba, Mrityunjaya homam, Sai Gayathri homam, and devotional songs rendering by group III bal vikas girls were held. Warden of Sri Sathya Sai Brindavan campus, Sri. D. R. Ravi Kumar delivered special address. E- newsletter of the Samithi was released during this celebration. Burra katha programme- Chennai West District As a part of the 90th birthday celebrations of our beloved Bhagawan, burra katha programme was rendered by Prashanthi Nilayam students at Chennai West district bhajan hall, T. Nagar on 30th April 2015 at around 6:00 pm. Velachery Samithi uildi g ai Kailash i augural fu tio - Chennai Metro South district The e o ated ai Kailash uildi g of Vela he Samithi was inaugurated by state president on 3rd May The address of this center for spiritual activities is 16/60, 7th avenue (east), Dhandeeswaram Nagar, Velachery Chennai Regular medical camp- Tiruchirapalli district The first medical camp of the proposed regular medical camp was inaugurated at Gundoor village near Trichy airport by K. K. Nagar Samithi by the district president Dr. Sri. G. C. Vijay Sai Prabhu on 5th April With the help of three doctors the camp was conducted for 109 patients. Blood sugar test was conducted, medical advice was provided and medicines were given free of cost to the patients. This camp is the fourth of its kind since six months and hence forth has been committed to be held every month. 95

96 Other activities conducted in Trichy district Laksharchana: Sahasranamarchana was performed at Sri Sathya Sai Mandir, Sri Rangam by bal vikas children and gurus on 18th and 26th April At Kallukuzhi sahasaranmarchana was performed by bal vikas children and devotees on 19th April 2015 at Anjaneyar temple. Nagara sankeertan: In commemoration with 4th Aradhana Mahotsavam of our beloved Bhagawan, nagar sankeertan was conducted by members of Trichy Malaikottai Bhajana mandali on 19th April Members and bal vikas children, 75 in number participated in this nagar sankeertan in which a decorated portrait was taken in a decorated vehicle in the streets surrounding Ucchi Pillaiyar and Thayumanavar sannithis. Ashtothra archana: The rural bal vikas children of Thiruvanaikaval performed ashtothra archana on 23rd April Disaster management programme certificates awarding function- Tanjore district Certificates were distributed to the teachers and students of K. S. K. Educational Institution participated in the disaster management training programme held on 28th March In this programme, college principal, district president and district spiritual coordinator participated, explained the significance of this training programme and elucidated the service activities undertaken by Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organizations. Bal vikas gurus training programme- Tanjore District Bal vikas gurus training programme was held at Kumbakonam Samithi on 19th April gurus and group III bal vikas children of Thanjavur, Kumbakonam and Thiruvidaimaruthur Samithis participated in this training programme. The programme which was inaugurated by the district president comprised of topics exemplifying human values, ahimsa, pancha bhootas, health and cleanliness, Indian culture, glory of Ramayana, life of young Sai and group activities and a session on model bal vikas class were dealt in detail. Certificates were distributed to all the participants. General medical and eye screening camp, Thirumullaivoyil of Tiruvallur District Vaishnavi Nagar Samithi conducted general medical and eye screening camp in commemoration ith Bhaga a s th birthday celebrations and golden jubilee of the Samithi at Sathya Murthy Nagar Government School, Thirumullaivoyil on 12th April A team of 8 doctors from Kumaran Hospitals and a group of doctors under the stewardship of Dr. Mrs. Rama Devi successfully conducted the camp in which 146 patients were benefitted. A team of doctors from Rajan Eye Care Hospital conducted eye screening camp for 226 patients of which 12 were recommended for cataract surgery. 43 Sevadals and 4 bal vikas children participated and rendered selfless Seva in this camp. Bhaga a s th Aradhana Mahotsavam- Coimbatore district Bhaga a s th Aradhana Mahotsavam was celebrated at various Sai centers in Coimbatore district as a 9 day celebration from 18th to 26th April 2015 in a very grand manner. On 18th April namasankertanam was held b a t J a sh a g oup at Vada alli Samithi. On the same day namasankeertanam was held at Sai Nagar and Kovai Pudhar Samithis and a veterinary camp was conducted at Chellappa goundan pudur SSSVIP adopted village. On 19th April, rathotsavam was conducted along the main streets of Coimbatore by Ramanathapuram Samithi. On 20th April de otio al so gs e e e de ed Nadalaha i hild e s g oup at.. Pu a Samithi. On 22nd April 96

97 butter milk distribution was conducted by all Samithis at the places of public gathering in large numbers in and around Coimbatore city. On 23rd April 146 bal vikas representing all Samithis conducted akhanda bhajan at Sri Sathya Sai Mandir. On 24th April, the programmes began with Omkaram, suprabhatham and nagar sankeertan followed by homam, Narayana Seva at adopted villages, go pooja, educating farmers regarding organic farming, go Dhanam and bhajan were held. On 25th April namasankertanam was held at Pothanur Pecchi Amman Koil. On 26th April a photographic exhibition highlighting the significance of Sai avatar and Sai Seva - glory of Sai avatar hood was held at Kuppanoor village. Moreover games were conducted for youths and children of adopted villages. Sri Rama Navami celebrations- Thoothukudi district The mahilas of Kovilpatti Town Vakkil Street Samithi conducted Sri Rama Navami utsavam from 23rd to 28th Ma h i a e g a d a e. The did pa a a a hol eadi g of Bhaga a s a a Katha asa Vahi i f o : a to : p o all the fi e da s. O the hol o asio of i Rama navami special bhajan was held in the evening. Samithi members, devotees and bal vikas children in large numbers participated in this five day celebrations. Eswaramma day celebrations Sai Sruthi, Kodaikanal On behalf of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organizations, Tamil Nadu Eswaramma day was celebrated at Sai Shruthi, Kodaikanal on 6th May 2015 in a very grand manner. The day long programme commenced with Omkaram, suprabhatham and nagar sankeertan. This was followed by hoisting of Prashanthi flag, Veda parayanam, bhajan and a special address by Sri. Kasi Viswanathan of Kanchipuram North district. Following this cultural programme was rendered by students of Kodaikanal Samithi Santhome Higher Secondary and Evoke Academy Schools and bal vikas children of Dindugul district. Tokens of love were offered to the 100 children who participated in the cultural programme. The main part of the celebrations, Narayana Seva was conducted in the august presence of Palani constituency M.L. A. Sri. Venu Gopal, National Vidya Vahini Coordinator Sri.Satyajit, district president Sri.K. R. Suresh and a string of dignitaries to about more than 2000 people including devotees. Moreover blankets were distributed to 1800 people and sarees to 250 mahilas in a systematic manner. The villagers from various villages in and around Kodaikanal flocked for the celebrations like the mountain bee swarming for the flowers which was a feast to the eye. On the previous day i.e. 5 th May 2015, in the evening bhajan, special discourse by Chennai Sri.Sai Madhavan and a musical programme by Sri. T. M. S. Palraj, Sri. G. R. Kannan and Sri. G. R. Jaya Prakash was held. This memorable function was attended by district presidents of Dindugul, Madurai, Theni, Tiruppur and Chennai Metro districts, district coordinators and a large number of seva dals who whole heartedly offered themselves for the success of the celebrations. Honoring mahila Sevadals- Chennai Metro South district As a part of the 90th birthday celebrations of our beloved Bhagawan, a function to honor senior mahila Sevadals was held at Sundaram in the morning of 4th April DAV Higher Secondary School Headmistress Smt. Rama Subramaniam who was the chief guest for the function delivered special address. This was followed by speeches by state president and district president. Following this s i tillati g a d soulful spee hes e e e de ed the se io e adals u de the topi e a is ou e eath. se io e adals e e ho o ed ith a po t ait of Bhaga a, o e silk sa ee, name embossed mementos, household articles prepared by VTC mahilas and shawls. The function a e to a e o a le lose ith aha Ma gala A athi a d dist i utio of Bhaga a s p asada. 97

98 Seva at leprosy colony- Chennai Metro West district In commemoration with Bhaga a s th birthday celebrations, members of Kodambakkam Samithi expressed their love in action by distributing T shirts to 25 people and amrita kalasham to 90 families residing in the leprosy colony near Singa Perumal Koil. They also visited Jnanodaya School, Venkatapuram where the children of this colony are undergoing education and distributed 140 T shirts of various colors. They also conducted bhajan, narrated stories highlighting human values and distributed sweets to the children. Butter milk distribution- Chennai South District In commemoration with Eswaramma day celebrations, month long water and butter milk was distributed to beat the scorching summer in centers nearby all Samithis of Chennai West district. T. Nagar Samithi distributed butter milk for three consecutive Sundays at Somasundaram play ground with active participation of youth wing from 7:30 am to 11:30 am. Anna Nagar Samithi conducted around 100 liters butter milk distribution daily for 12 days from 6th May to 17th May 2015 in the outside p e ises of IA offi e, i. Natesa s house. Puli u Samithi facilitated 500 liters pot water from morning to evening at Trustpuram main road opposite to Vinayakar temple for 45 days from 1 st May to 15th June. They also distributed buttermilk on all the five Sundays of the month. Temple cleaning activity in 90 temples- Chennai South district I o e o atio ith Bhaga a s th birthday celebrations 90 temples cleaning activity was meticulously planned and completed in a record time of 70 days between 2nd February 2015 and 25th April The temple authorities were flabbergasted by the selfless seva of the mahila members who procured all the cleaning materials and actively involved themselves in this cleaning activity. With the able guidance of the district mahila service coordinator under whose instructions the mahila sevadals divided into groups and undertook this seva activity in a laudable manner. Around 549 mahila sevadals were involved in this noble activity. 90 Temple Bhajans- Chennai South District In commemoration with Bhaga a s th birthday celebrations under the spiritual wing Samithi members of four zones of West district along with mahila youth began 90 temple bhajans on 24th February 2015 and conducted 89 bhajans at various temples in the district. The venue for the 90th haja as hose as u da a, Bhaga a s a ode i Che ai, a d the haja as th bhajan th was conducted on 9 Jun 2015 in which more than 300 devotees from the district participated. In this spiritual endeavor not less than 30 members participated in each bhajan besides a large number of devotees. RO water pant installation- Chennai South District Members of Rangarajapuram Samithi installed a RO water plant to provide pure drinking water for the benefit of devotees and common public at Rangarajapuram Sai Murugan temple as a part of the Eswaramma day celebrations. This seva was inaugurated by Venkatagiri Maharaja Sri. Gopala Krishna Yachendra on 6th May The water in the 1000 lire source tank is purified passed on to 150 liter water tank with a filling capacity of 50 liters per hour and purified drinking water is made available for consumption from 6:00 am to 9:00 pm. Disaster management training programme- Vellore District Disaster management training programme was conducted for the students of Kingston College, Vellore on7th March In this programme the students were educated regarding rescue knots, 98

99 safety measures, first aid, firefighting techniques and rescue operations of people caught up in broken buildings scraps with practical demonstration. This training programme was conducted by Kanchipuram Sai disaster management training group in which 122 students participated. 17th June 2016 Festival of Joy and Love Chennai Metro South With the Divine Grace and Blessings of our Swami, the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, Tamil Nadu Chennai Metro (South) held a four day long programme from 17th to 20th June 2015, to celebrate the Festival of Love & Joy at the Dakshinamurthy Auditorium, P.S. Higher Secondary School, Mylapore, Chennai. Leading personalities from the major religions Islam, Christianity and Hinduism were invited to offer their own religious perspectives on Love and its connectivity to our Swami's messages on Love. On each day of the festival, cultural programmes by our Bal Vikas children were performed, to entertain / inspire the audience as well as to reinforce the underlying theme of Love and Spiritual Harmony. First Day Talk o a aya Nalli akka y hri. Ak ar Ali, Secretary, Ikkiya Jamaayath, Mettupalayam Second Day Talk o ho er of Lo e fro Bi le y ister Ire e, a d Talk o e a is Lo e y ister Pa i aya Third Day - Excerpts from Shri. Nagai Mukundan's speech Fourth Day Excerpts from Shri. Adithya's speech Bal Vikas Cultural Programmes Cultural Programmes by Bal Vikas Children were held on all the 4 days of the Festival. On the 1st day, the Bal Vikas Children performed an enchanting dance depicting the incidents outlined in Saint Thyagaraja's Utsa a a p a a K iti Nagu o u Gala a i. The a ious fa ets of Rama including beauty, charm, valour, wisdom and compassion were enacted very well by the sweet children. Next was a skit based on Guha's devotion to Rama. The story was approached with a slightly different take and was consistent with the story narrated in Rama Katha Rasa Vahini. This was the story told by one Avatar about His previous Avatar! Just as Rama embraced Guha into his fold as being one of the family, it exhorted all the children of Swami to envision and practice such universal love and brotherhood! On the 2nd day, a Da e e ital o Glo of i ath a ai a d a skit o I po ta e of Na as a a a fo Isla, Ch istia it a d Hi duis e e pe fo ed the Child e follo ed a rendition of a Sarva Dharma Song On the 3rd day, a scintillating Musical Discourse on "5D GOD" was done a young Bal Vikas Student Shri. Sai Darshan. He used a few Bhajans and Stories to drive home the 5Ds of Duty, Devotion, Discipline, Determination and Discrimination given by Bhagawan. This was followed by a lively dance recital. On the last day, a wonderful session of Villupattu was done by the Bal Vikas Children on the theme of a i's Lo e. The i te spe sed thei sessio ith lots of sto ies a d ongs. They narrated the 99

100 Life History of Bhagawan in simple crisp stories, which was easy to understand for all. This was followed by a lively dance recital. The Programme was well attended on all the days. A cumulative total of more than 1500 persons attended the Festival over the days. After Mangala Arathi, Prasadam was distributed on all the days. 14th June 2015 Diabetic Retinopathy Camp Chennai Metro West A diabetic retinopathy camp was organized by Chennai Metro West district at Anjali Mahal, MGR Nagar on 14th June 2015 in association with Sankara Netralaya of Chennai. More than 300 patients were checked for their blood sugar and associated eye ailments. 23 patients were selected for cataract surgery and others who were diagnosed for serious eye ailments were given medicines for 15 days period and advised them to undergo further treatments. Dr.V.R.Ganesan and Dr.Sundaramurthy participated and rendered their service in this camp. 19th July 2015 Mahila sadhana Camp Chennai Metro West The Mahila Vibha members who were part of all the three wings of the organisation participated in this grand sadhana camp which started at 7.00 am in the morning and concluded at 1.00 pm in the afternoon. Many dignitaries attended the program and shared their valuable suggestions and congratulated the mahila members of the organisation for their selfless service. These mahilas were engaged in Temple cleaning, Organising Bhajans at temples, conducting Balvikas classes, offering scribing services for the blind among other regular Samithi Seva activities. National Vice President Shri.N.Ramani addressed the gathering and beckoned one and all to engage in the noble Seva of spreading the message of Sai to every nook and corner of the District. 5th July 2015 Bhajan Training Workshop Madurai District Sri. Bala Ramchandran and Sri.Krishnamurthy from Sundaram Bhajan Group of Chennai had conducted a Bhajan training workshop at Anandha Nilyam, Madurai on 5th July More than 200 devotees attended the program. The synchronization of Ragha, Thala and Bhava was highlighted in an exhilarating and elating manner by the instructors who shared their experiences with Bhagwan. They had recalled many instances where in Bhagwan had in His own inimitable ways taught the students as to how to sing Bhajans with correct pronunciation and stressing the appropriate words. 18th July 2015 Ramzan Celebrations Chennai Metro West The members of Ashok Nagar Samithi of Chennai Metro West offered cool drinks and snacks to our Islamic brothers who were adhering the Ramzan fast on 18th July 2015 at mosque situated at 4th Avenue. They have been engaged in such Seva for the past 20 years. 19th July 2015 Ramzan Celebrations Trichy District Ramzan was celebrated at Sri Sathya Sai Mandir Trichy on 19th July 2015,With special SARVA Dharma Bhajans which sent vibrations all over Auditorium when the large gathering were moved by a i's essage U it of eligio s a d the p i iple of one and only Religion, that is Religion of Lo e. This as follo ed a thought p o oki g talk Haji. JAMIYALAM of Thiruvanaikkaval Pallivasal, when he compared the principles of Islam with Bhagwan's message of "LOVE ALL SERVE ALL", a d E VICE TO HUMANITY I E VICE TO GOD. He e phasized that e a pe fo ed Sevadals of SSSO is akin to what is told in Holy Koran. The Golden Age where there will be one religion that is the Religion of Love is not far, when the younger generation takes up Manava Seva cutting across barriers of caste, creed, gender and religion. The day's program concluded with Mangala Arathi. Ø 250 Food Packets were distributed at Islamic slum Areas. 100

101 Ø Spl Talk about His Parthi Visit and Experience by Haji. Jamiyalam. 31st July 2015 Guru Poornima celebrations Trichy District The Guru poornima Day was celebrated in a grand manner at KK Nagar Samithi of Trichy District which included the following: 1) Chanting of Sai Gayathri, 2) Kuthuvilakku Pooja & Lalitha Sahasranamam, - About 22 ladies participated in the event. 3) Amman & Ambal Bhajans Singing, 4) A short drama in English by the BAL VIKAS Children. The children could prove to the audience with thei talk B ah a, Vish u & i a a e all ithi AI. The ishis e t to all pla es i sea h of Brahma, Vishnu and Sivan and they could not find them. Ultimately they found all the three in SAI wherein poojas and worship were going on. (10 children) 5) Speech, 6) Mangala Arathi & Prasadham Distribution. 31st July 2015 Guru Poornima celebrations Trichy District On the occasion of GURUPOORNIMA day, being an auspicious AADI (TAMIL MONTH) Friday a maha KUTHUVILAKKU Puja was performed at our Arunanagar SRI SATHYASAI SAMUTHAYAKOODAM from AM on wards. More than 60 ladies participated in the event. Lalitha Sahasranamam, Lalitha Navarathnamalika, Lakshmi Sahasranamam, Lakshmi Ashtothram, Durga Ashtothram & SRI SATHYASAI Ashtothram were chanted and the archana was performed with KUNKUMAM, MANGALAAKSHTHAI&FLOWERS by all the ladies. The function ended with Arathi to Bhagawan Baba at Hrs. Then NarayanaSeva was done to all the participants by prasadhams brought by the mahila participants. 15th 23rd August 2015 Ramayana Sapthaham Trichy District A seven day Sapthaham was organized by the SSSSO members of Trichy district at Thottium Taluk. Sri. Srinivasa Sundarajan of Chennai was the speaker for the Sapthaham who had in his own inimitable way narrated the story of Ramayana and highlighting various subtle secrets hidden in a a a a as e u iated ou Bhag a i His ook a a katha asa Vahi i. O the fi al da of the Sapthaham a Bhajanamandali was started at Balasamuthiram, a village near Thottium. 22nd August 2015 Sathyajit at SriRengam Mandir Trichy District Shri Satyajit, Coordinator of Sri Sathya Sai Vidhya Vahini program shared his experiences with Swami during his talk at SAI MANDIR on Saturday, 22nd Aug His close proximity to Swami for more than a decade was not a bed of roses with a feeling of being a "chosen" man, as others may think. It was Swami's unique way of sending a message and giving the correctives which effectively tackled the egoistic feelings and complacency which normally develops when one is very near to the God or Guru. He said, such feelings in him were drained away when Swami chose NOT TO SPEAK TO HIM for almost 1000days. He later felt that those 1000 odd days were the Best period of his decade long close proximity to Swami, when he learnt the significance of CHAMATKAR, SAMSKAR, PAROPAKAR AND SAKSHATHKAR. Swami even while rebuking or showing anger, did it lovingly, as He was the Embodiment of Love. The initial hurt feelings turned in to an ocean of Joy when the egoistic tendencies gave way to realization of Truth that we call transformation. The Speech of Satyajit, made a lasting impression on the packed audience in SaiMandir. 23rd August 2015 Inauguration of KARRAKADU Bhajanamandali Trichy District SUNDAY,23rd August,2015 turned out to be a Red letter day for the residents of Thottiam Perruraatchi, when two centers of Sri Sathya Sai Organisation were inaugurated at Balasamuthram and Karakkadu fulfilling their longstanding aspirations of having a Sai Centre near their home. The inauguration of Bhajanamandali at Karakkadu invited a positive response from villagers who 101

102 assembled in large numbers at the local Shirdi Sai baba temple. The day's events began with chanting of Vedam and Ashtothram followed by Bhajans. Shri.Jayapal, whose sincere efforts in building a temple for Bhagwan Baba to enable the devotees on a regular basis was fulfilled when he erected the statues of Shirdi Baba and Sathya Sai Baba and his request for opening of a Bhajanamandali was approved by the SSSO. The Bhajanamandali was inaugurated by District President, Vijay Sai Prabhu who appreciated the sincere efforts of Shri Jayapal and assured all guidance in starting Seva activities so that the Bhajanamandali would soon become a full fledged Samithi in a short period. Tamilnadu state Vice President Shri Suresh complimented the efforts of Shri Jayapal in organising a NarayanaSeva for 100 persons every week as a token of gratitude to Bhagwan who saved his life by conducting a free surgery way back in the year Rice and food articles were distributed to five neediest and note books were distributed to 100 children. The program concluded with Arathi to Bhagwan and distribution of Prasadam. 3rd August 2015 a i s Lo e - District Conference Chennai Metro South With the Beloved Grace of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, a District Conference was conducted for Chennai Metro (South) members on Sunday, the 3rd of August, 2014 at Sundaram, Chennai. The conference was open to all Sai devotees, members of organization, parents of Balvikas children, Gurus and other offi e ea e s. The the e of the o fe e e as a i s Lo e. The egist atio sta ted ea l at : am in the morning, and the delegates poured in through the morning with a final tally of around 900. A sumptuous breakfast was laid out for all present with thanks to Swami, which was efficiently served by Sevadal members. The registration process was also hassle free and all who registered received a kit for the day containing a picture of Swami with a thoughtful message, a pen, packet of vibhuthi, a useful hand fan for the hot day and a very informative booklet which talks about the opportunities available for devotees to indulge in Seva. Once everyone was fed, the flag was hoisted exactly at 8:15 am and the Mahila devotees soon chanted the Vedas beautifully to start the day on a bright and vigorous note. The da s e e ts e e o less ight, a d al ost all p ese t o eded that it as the ost interesting line-up for a district conference. After the Vedas, a round of Bhajans followed, with the gifted Sundaram male singers taking us closer to Swami through the Bhakthi Marga. Following the Bhajans, there was a lot of excitement preceding the key-note address by the Chief Guest of the day, Shri. Nimish Pandya, All India President. Once the dignitaries had assembled on the dais, Shri. S. R. Chandrasekaran, District President, Chennai Metro (South), delivered the welcome address, welcoming Swami humbly and welcoming all present to the conference while stressing the importance of Seva. He extended a warm welcome to Shri Nimish Pandya who had flown in from Mumbai, and had accepted his invitation graciously. Another honorable guest for the day was Shri. G. Varadhan, State President, who delivered the Inaugural address in chaste Tamil and stressed humbly on the importance and need for devotees to indulge in Seva activities with the organization. He felt pleased with the booklet prepared and urged one and all to perform some small activity given in the book. He also spoke about the upcoming projects to promote health and education, stressing on the Sai Mobile Hospital project which he was very enthused about. He requested doctors, nurses and all devotees to aid the initiative by performing Seva. He also wished Shri. S. R. Chandrasekaran with respect to his new appointment as District President and wished that the district conference reaches higher proportions next year. Following this, Shri Nimish Pandya, National Vice President and Chief Guest for the day delivered the Key note address. His address enraptured the audience and his messages were crisp and clear. He wanted everyone to practice more rather than preach and requested everyone to meet regularly to do e a a d help sp ead a i s lo e. He shared a few personal stories and described who is a Sai 102

103 devotee. He also commended the activities of Chennai South and gave his best wishes to Shri. S. R. Chandrasekaran. He urged all to listen to what Swami says within our conscience and live accordingly. He was indeed an excellent orator and injected enthusiasm into all present with his itt a d ise o ds. h i. Ni ish Pa d a also sa g his fa o ite haja Nai o ei p e dhaa a d o luded taki g a i s lessi gs. The Chief Guest as the felicitated and thanked. Shri Ni ish Pa d a s spee h as also t a slated i to Ta il fo the e efit of the o - English speaking audience. Afte the Dig ita ies had spoke, a ideo o a i s Lo e fo Hu a it - Mobile Hospital at Puttaparthi was played. This video was informative and moving and indeed showed a glimpse of what we might expect in Tamil Nadu. A few words were also spoken about the same requesting help from devotees in the form of Seva. A mention was also made about how the mobile hospital was to be completely computerized when in action. Following this, Ms. Aishwarya. D, a past balvikas stude t, u e tl se i g as Gu u, ho is pu sui g he CA deg ee spoke o the topi Fi di g ti e to i lude ai o k i ou us s hedule. The essage as to i i e ai s alues i all that e do a d to follow the well laid down nine codes of conduct. After this, the delegates took a tea break. Follo i g hi h, a talk o A hie i g ath a ai th ough the o ga izatio as gi e h i. Aravind Balasubramanyam, an alumni of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning and who is currently with Radio Sai, Puttaparthi. He explained in a lucid and interesting manner as to why do we need goals, why should Sai be our goal and how can we do this through the organization. He did so elati g i ide ts of a i he e a i eautifull illust ates hat he ea s he he sa s M Life is Message. p eadi g a i s Lo e th ough e a a d othe a ti ities i the o ga izatio seemed to be one very good way of doing so. After his excellent oration, there was a special quiz session, which was musical and interesting and was conducted by Shri Bala Ramachandran, Ramakrishnan and V. Vasudevan, (All Alumni of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning) who kept the audience on their toes with their questions and att a ted e e o e s atte tio as the a ated si ple a d s eet e pe ie es of a i s lo e. Following this, a variety of dishes awaited the delegates at lunch time, as the organizers and Swami of course had kept in mind that the day was Aadi Perukku and dishes were prepared accordingly. Post lunch, Smt. Suguna Krishnan helped the audience feel a little light as she gave a talk on pi itualit of Hu o. he ould t stop s ili g he self as she e alled ho a i loved to teach values through stories which had a wonderful humorous sense to them. She also did away with the thought that spiritually inclined people tend to be rigid and do not have a sense of humor. The next speaker, Shri C. G. Sai Prakash, an Alumni of Shri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning and ho is ith adio ai u e tl, ould t help ut add to t. ugu a K ish a s spee h elati g a fe o e i ide ts of a i s hu o i spi itualit. He spoke o the topi His Life is His Message, and u ged o e a d all to follo a i s deeds a d o ds hi h e e the T uth. He ga e a e pleasa t e di g to the da s a ti ities. The weather God also helped in making the conference a success by holding back his showers till later in the evening when all as apped up. A a ou e e t a out Li uid Lo e - Blood donation was also made urging all devotees to add to the flow of Love. After all the beautiful speeches, it was time for the Maha Mangala Arathi at 4 pm. 103

104 6th September 2015 Rathosavam- Sai Krishna on Gokulastamai Day Trichy District Continuing with Gokulashtami celebrations on Sunday,6th September 2015,the evening program began with Sai Bhajan at Sai Mandir Srirangam, when Bhajans on Krishna were rendered which sent vibrations to those who assembled. This was followed by Rathothsawam, which started from West Chithirai Veedhi Srirangam. The portrait of our Beloved Swami and statue of Lord krishna were beautifully decorated and mounted on top of a motor vehicle and taken in procession in the four segments of Chithirai Veedhi around Sri Ranganathar Temple, amidst singing of Bhajans by devotees. The event evoked excellent response from the residents of the locality who were fortunate in having Darshan of both Lord Krishna and Our Beloved Swami together on this auspicious day. The day's events concluded with Mangala Arathi and distribution of prasadam. 20th September 2015 Bheema Ratha Shanthi Tiruvallore District The members and Devotees of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Samithi, Porur, had an opportunity to perform Bheema Ratha Shanthi for 11 couples who were between the age group of 70 and 80 (consisting senior Samithi members and other general public). All these 11 couples also had an opportunity to perform Padha Pooja for the couples who crossed 80+ and an our elder sai member aged 101 years. The programme started at 7 am with Sankalpam in the name of all the Blessed Dhampathies. Details of homams performed: Maha Ganapathi Homam, Ayush Homam, Dhanvanthri Homam, Mruthyunjaya Homam, Navagraha Homam, Durga Lakshmi Saraswathi Homam and Sai Gayathri Homam. Paada Pooja was performed to them by our members and Devotees (married young couples). After the Dhampathi Pooja homam was concluded at 9.30 am with Poornahuti. All the Dhampathies blessed the entire gathering whole heartedly and expressed their happiness and also thanked Bhagawan for given them this opportunity. Further, Our District President handed over the Marriage Registration certificate to a couple who had recently married at our Devadhanam Village and they also expressed their interest in attending this October Prashanthi Seva. Mangala Arathi to our Beloved Bhagawan was performed at 10 am followed by Special lunch to the blesssed couples and narayana seva to all the participants (more than 315) viz. general public, district and Samithi coordinators, members, etc.. September 2015 Inauguration of New Bhajanamandalais Chennai Metro South Egattur Bhajan Mandali The Egattur Bhajan Mandali was inaugurated on 11th September 2015 at the Hiranandani Complex situated in Egattur, near Navalur. More than 40 persons attended the inaugural Bhajan. Regular Bhajans will be held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of every month inside the Hiranandani Complex, at the residences of the Members. Shri. R. Baskaran has kindly agreed to be the Convener for this Bhajan Mandali. After the Karanai Bhajan Mandali, this is the 2nd Mandali functioning under the Sholinganallur Samithi. 104

105 Kandanchavadi Bhajan Mandali The Kandanchavadi Bhajan Mandali was inaugurated on 20th September 2015 at the Jayendrar Colony situated in Kandanchavadi. More than 25 persons attended the inaugural Bhajan. Regular Bhajans will be held once every month in the Vinayakar Temple situated within the Jayendrar Colony. The frequency of Bhajans will be increased to twice a month and then to every week in course of time. Shri. S. Ravindran has kindly agreed to be the Convener for this Bhajan Mandali After the Thoraipakkam Bhajan Mandali, this is the 2nd Mandali functioning under the Perungudi Samithi. 27th September 2015 Shramdhan at Besant Nagar CrematoriumChennai MetroSouth With the Divine Grace and Blessings of our Beloved Bhagawan, the Sevadals of Chennai Metro and Kanchipuram Districts along with the Youth and Alumni numbering about 150, carried out a massive Cleaning Seva (Shramdhan) at the Besant Nagar Crematorium, as part of a variety of activities being u de take i o e o atio of Bhaga a s th Birthday. The places within the large Crematorium Complex that were taken up for cleaning included the Dead Bodies itual A ea, the Post C e atio itual A ea, Visito s Waiti g A ea, The Offi e oo s, Toilets and Shrubs & Bushes in the Open Area. The cleaning included removal of cobwebs, scrubbing and mopping of the floors, cleaning of the toilets using appropriate chemical, etc. Apart from these general cleaning, the Seva included carrying out repairs to leaking and non functional toilets & wash basins, painting of the walls with stains, installation of hand rails, etc. The Shramdhan was extended to the open areas in the Complex as well and this included the removal of the large amount of accumulated rubbish from the open areas. The massive shrubs and bushes were cleaned out using JCB and Bob Cat Equipments (mini Bull Dozers). The Officials of the Corporation of Chennai besides graciously according approval to this Seva also extended all necessary support to our Sevadal Team The Sevadals also planted 4 new trees in the cleaned up open area. The entire crematorium looked like a new place in a matter of just 3 hours. The Shramdhan which started at am was completed at about am. The Sevadals Thanked Bhagawan for yet another wonderful Seva Opportunity 20th September 2015 Bhajanamrutham- 90 Ganesha Songs Trichy District In tune with 90th Birthday celebrations of our Beloved Bhagwan and Ganesh chathurthi celebrations, devotees of Trichy district participated in BHAJANAMRUTHAM PROGRAM of singing 90 Sai Bhajans on Lord Ganesha on Sunday, 20th Sept 2015 at Sai Mandir Arunanagar, Srirangam. The event commenced at 1.30 pm with singing of Ganesha Pancharatnam followed by chorus Bhajans in Tamil and Telugu and other Ganesha Bhajans rendered by lead singers taking their turns by rotation. The day's event was also marked with offering of 1008 Kozhukattais to Lord Ganesha and our Beloved Bhagwan. The event concluded with Arathi and distribution of Prasadam. 23rd September 2015 Sai Sundareswarar Prtista Day Sundaram It was on 23rd September 2008, Bhagwan had consented to install Sai Sundareswarar at Shanti Vedika at Sundaram. It is to be noted that Bhagwan had instructed the devotees to install the lingam idol at the very same place where He used to stand and deliver His discourses. The day was celebrated with Prohits and Vedic scholars chanting various portions of Vedam and by conducting Homam on various deities. 105

106 24th October 2015 Chennai Metro West district Vadapalani Samithi th birthday on the evening of 24th The members of Vadapalani Samithi ele ated Bhag a s October 2015 at Sri Bhuvaneswari Mini Hall, Vadapalani in a very grand manner. The programme comprised of Veda parayanam, bhajan, followed by balvikas cultural programme consisting of kathakalakshepa al ikas hild e e e plif i g Bhaga a s i th, leelas a d upadeshas tea hi gs a d a d a a o the sig ifi a e of fi e D s. 25th October 2015 Homam and Rathosavam Rangarajapuram Samithi The members of Rangarajapuram Samithi ele ated Bhaga a s th Birthday on 25th October 2015 at Mithilapuri Kalyana Mandapam, West Mambalam in a very memorable manner. The morning programme included homams followed by rathotsavam along the main streets and on completion abishekam was conducted for beloved Bhagawan which was followed by Veda parayanam and bhajan. In the evening namasankeertanam was rendered by Sri. Udayalur K. kalyanaraman. 20th December 2015 Christmas Celebrations Coimbatore th Holy Christmas was celebrated in Coimbatore district at Sri Sathya Sai Mandir on 20 December 2015 with a special congregational prayer arranged to commemorate the celebration. Bearing testi o to Bhaga a s di i e di tu of u it of faiths, the p a e as e de ed a g oup of Christian brothers led by Rev. Pastor Father Gunaseelan of CSI (Churches of South India) and participated by other honorable gurus and other Christian brothers. The prayer was held between 5:30 pm and 6:00 pm comprising of holy recitation, chants, psalms and carols which made the rendering memorable. Samithi members and devotees participated in the holy congregational prayer. 1st November 2015 Medical Camp Tiruvallur district A special medical camp was conducted Ambattur Samithifor the benefit of auto rickshaws and heavy vehicle drivers at Sri SethuBhaskara Higher Secondary School, Pudur, Ambatturon 1st November In this camp the departments included were general medicine, cardiology, dermatology, ophthalmology which was successful with the active participation of doctors and lab technicians. More than 200 patients were benefitted by the camp. 25th December 2015 State Level Balvikas Talent Search Program Madurai district With the divine blessings of our beloved Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba Varu, the state level Sri Sathya Sai balvikas talent search programme for the year 2015 was conducted on 24th and 25th December 2015 at Mahatma Montessori Residential School premises adjacent to Madurai Azhagar temple. A total of 1000 people comprising of 400 children, gurus and parents participated in the two day programme. The two day programme began at 5:00 pm on 24th December with pallak seva carrying the decorated portrait of our beloved Bhagawan circumbulated the school premises amidst Veda chanting and concluded at the school auditorium. In the divine august presence of our beloved Bhagawan the evening session began with bhajans. On completion a cultural programme comprising of songs and da e se ue es titled Madu a ai Madu a staged al ikas hild e of Madu ai dist i t. In the first part of the cultural programme, the spiritual heritage of Madurai was highlighted which included significance of Madurai Meenakshi Amman and Thiruparankudram Murugan temples, important festivals namely, Madurai Meenakshi Thirukalyanam, Chithirai Thiruvizha which were aesthetically depicted with song sequences along with Bharatam and Azhagar dances. In the conclusive part of the cultural programme, the greatness of the eternal bondage between Madurai and Madura Sai was recollected and as a feather in the cap, the glory of the stalwarts 106

107 produced by the holy Madurai who turned to be ardent devotees of our beloved Bhagawan namely, Smt. M. S. Subbalakshmi, Sri. T. M.Soundararajan and Sri. Jupiter Bala Krishnan was re-lived by rendering of songs sung by these noble ones in praise of our beloved Bhagawan made the presentation memorable. On 25th November, the second day proceedings began at 7:00 am with hoisting of Prashanthi flag by State Educational Coordinator Smt. Rama Devi. Following the lighting of the lamp of love, Sri. M. Bhoopal, member, Sri Sathya Sai Trust, Tamil Nadu delivered the welcome address. The principal and correspondent of Madurai Mahatma School, Smt. Prema Latha Panner Selvam delivered special address. Following course all talent search programmes commenced at 8:30 am. Nearly 400 balvikas children representing all districts participated in this programme. In the post lunch session, the first three winners in all the talent search programmes were announced and prizes were distributed. The prize distribution programme began with vocal recital by Selvi. Aishwarya of Karaikudi. As the programme was in progress, Bhagawan graced the Dias in a decorated palanquin. All the chosen winners were awarded certificates and mementos. State Vice President Sri. K. R. Suresh delivered the conclusive address and the two day programme came to a memorable close amidst overwhelming applause and maha mangala aarathi to our beloved Bhagawan Silver Jubilee of Srinivasa Avenue Samithi Chennai Metro South The silver jubilee of Srinivasa Avenue Samithi was celebrated on the morning of 1st January 2016 at Sundaram in a very grand manner. The celebrations included Sahasranamarchana, bhajan, cultural program by balvikas and a spiritual talk Poet Ka i a i o the topi Bhakti a d e a. The celebrations were attended by around 200 children of Annadana Samajam School which is adopted by the Samithi Celebrations Chennai Metro West th West Mambalam Samithi celeb ated Bhaga a s i thda ele atio s o January 2016 at Vasantham Kalyana Mandapam in a grand manner. The program comprised of balvikas cultural programs, namasankeertanam, spiritual talk by Smt. Lalitha Srinivasan and devotional songs rendering by Smt. Sumitra Ramakrishnan. A e-jou al ai Vahi i as eleased du i g the o asio Distribution of Amrutha Kalasam Kancheepuram North The members of Chrompet Samithi distributed bags containing rice, dhal, sugar, sugarcane and other essential ingredients to 400 families of Ambedkar Colony near Nanmangalam in commemoration with Pongal celebrations. The hearts of the colony inmates spelled immense gratitude to Bhagawan for this holy offering. 8th and 9th Jan 2016 DM Training Program Virudhunagar district Disaster awareness training program was conducted at Rajapalayam Ayyanar temple Sivananda Ashram on 8th and 9th January for mahilas, 9th and 10th January for gents. In both the training programs the disaster management training faculty participated and rendered training to 48 mahilas a d e ts espe ti el. D. V. Ve kat a a, P i ipal, ajapala a aju s College a d a ge i. M. Balasubramanianwere special invitees for this program Silver Jubilee of Chinmaya Nagar Samithi Chennai Metro West The Silver Jubilee of Chinmaya Nagar Samithi celebrated at SaiSanathan Hall located in Kumaran Nagar 2nd Main Road for three days in a very grand manner. In the evening of 23rd January 2016 a musical concert by Smt. S. S. Eswari and on 24th evening a spiritual talk by Sai University alumnus Sri. T. S. BalaRamachandran was held. On 25th January the program commenced with Omkaram, Suprabhatam and nagarsankeertan followed by sahasranama archana and Narayanaseva in the 107

108 forenoon. In the evening session, cultural program by balvikas children, rendering of annual report was followed by a musical concert by Smt. Anuradha Krishnamurthy. Following these State President Sri. G. Varadan addressed the gathering and deliberated on various significant aspects. The three day celebrations came to a close with maha mangala arathi to Bhagawan followed by Narayanaseva Palaki Procession Tiruvallur district The students of Sri Sathya Sai Primary School, Nallathoor village, Tiruttani Taluk and members of Tiruttani Samithi undertook a grand procession on 2nd February This day is memorable since way back in 1985 Bhagawan Baba made a holy visit to this village and blessed the devotees. To e i is e e Bhag a s hol isit a g a d pallak seva procession is being conducted every year. During the procession the villagers in all households offered maha mangala arathi to the aesthetically decorated portrait of Bhagawan with a sense of spiritual reverence Veda Vikas for Balvikas Children Kanchi South District The Kanchi South district of SSSSO started a special series of "Veda Vikas" classes - at six centers, viz., S.NO. Name of Samithi the 1 Tambaram 2 Guduvanchery 3 Poondi Bazzar 4 Kanchipuram Collectrate 5 Sothupakkam Maduranthagam 6 Chengalpet (covering Chengalpet, Anupuram and 24 Kalpakkam) Location covered (covering Tambaram, perungalatur and Parvati Nagar Samithis) (covering Guduvanchery, Nellikuppam, Maraimalainagar, Madambakkam, NGO colony and Karpagambal Nagar) (covering Irumbuliyur, Poondibazar and Indra nagar Samithis) (covering Main Kanchi, Little Kanchi, Collectorate Kanchi, Ashok nagar and Sriperumpudur) No. Boys of No. Girls of

109 Group I and II Balvikas Children were encouraged to participate in these training classes. Even parents and devotees who were eager to learn Vedam were encouraged to make use of this special training program. The Phase I of this program covers "Ganapathi Prarthana, Medha Suktam and Kshama Prarthana". Each session constitutes one hour class for around six weeks and in Phase IIPurusha Suktam and Narayana Upanishad will be taught Saivikas Rolling Trophy Thiruvallore Saivikas rolling trophy for the third consecutive year and Rangoli competition were held at Ennore Skoda ground on 21st February, 2016 hosted by Ennore Samithi. The competitions began with Prashanthi flag hoisting by DP. 8 Cricket teams from Redhills, Porur, korattur, Ambathur, Thiruvottiyur, Ennore ( 2 teams) and Manali New town participated. Manali new town was the winner and Ennore team finished as the runner up. 8 Rangoli teams from Redhills, Porur (3 teams) Ambathur( 3 teams) Ennore participated. Ennore got 1 st prize, Redhills got 2nd prize, Ambathur and Porur shared 3rd prize. All the participants were given certificates. The trophy was given to Manali new town. District President Shri.N.Sathyanrayanan presided over the function. District office bearers and nearby Samithi conveners were also present. 17th to 22nd Feb 2016 Kumbakonam Mahamagam festival Thanjavur district In commemoration with the renowned Kumbakonam Mahamagam festival, proudly called the Kumbha mela of the South, Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations organized Narayanaseva for the benefit of the pilgrims for six days from 17th to 22nd Fe ua at aik ipa lo ated i Ka aikal ai road. Sweet, pongal, upma etc. were distributed all through the day from morning to night. Inclusive of the government officials involved in this festival around 65,000 people were benefitted through this Narayanaseva. 109

110 General Medical Camp Red Hills Tiruvallur district th The members of Redhills Samithi conducted a general medical camp on 28 February 2016 at Attanthangal Panchayat Union Middle School. In this camp apart from general medicine, specialists in pediatric, gynecology, dermatology and cardiology participated in this camp. ECG and blood sugar tests were administered to all the patients. People from Red Hills and Pandiyanallur in large numbers were benefitted through this camp Saibaba Colony Samithi 26th Anniversary Coimbatore th The 26 Anniversary of Sai baba Colony Samithi was celebrated in a grand manner wherein special cultural programs of the BV students and Narayan Seva were organized by the Samithi members Lakshmi Hayagriver Homam Coimbatore In order to ward off the fear of examinations and enhance the intelligence of the children who are going to appear for their X and XII std board examinations, a special homam invoking the blessings of the Lakshmi Hayagrever was conducted by the Race Course Samithi of Coimbatore. More than 150 students participated in this prayer and received blessings from the deity Stay Healthy to Live Lengthy Coimbatore A u i ue p og a o health lifest le e titles ta Health to Li e Le gth the DM tea of TN was organized at Kovaipudur, Coimbatore on 13th March Many unknown facts about our body and unfamiliar home remedies to the common ailments were presented before the organization members and other participants. A truly commendable program to all the sevaks to stay healthy though out their life indeed! 110

111 5th and 6th March 2016 Maha Sivaratri Celebrations Tiruvallore With the Divine blessings of our most beloved Lord, Maha Sivarathri was celebrated most reverently by Ambattur Samithi in a grand manner at the Samithi Premises, Shoba Nagar, Ambattur. 5th March 2016 Installation of Sri Sai Vedapureeswarar- Panchaloha Idol of Sri Shirdi Sai Baba (named as Sri Sai Vedapureeswarar) was installed in the auspicious time - between am to 11 am amidst Veda chanting (Rudram, Chamakkam etc.,) by about 75 Children of Sri Sathya Sai Primary School, Ambattur. 6th March Sri Maha Rudram & Homam- Programme started at 5 am with Aumkaram and Suprabatham followed by Gho Pooja. After completion of Poorvanga Pooja, 121 Kalasa Stapanam and Mahanyasa Parayanam, around 140 Veda Rithviks participated in Sri Maha Rudra Parayanam. Simultaneously Rudra Homam was also performed by 11 Rithviks. The entire area was reverberating with divine feelings and divine ambience. After holy offering of Vasur Dhara and Poornahuthi, Sacred Kalasa Abhishekam with 121 Kalasams was performed for Sri Sai Vedapureeswarar. Narayana seva was arranged at pm to all the participants. The evening programme started with veda parayanam at 4.30 pm followed by Bhajan, Worshipping of Lord ritualistically through Shodasa Upachara Pooja, Arathi was performed and the events concluded with Maha Mangala Aarathi at 6.30 p.m. The Maha Rudram, a holy divine endeavour was undertaken and performed in the immediate presence of the District President, Sri Sathyanarayanan. Rithviks from within Tiruvallur District Samithis and also from Metro Samithis joined together in this spiritual event. Around 350 members including Samithi Conveners, District Office Bearers, public took part in this event. As a token of love and appreciation of the selfless work done, a shawl printed with Sri Sathya Sai Gayathri and Rudram book was given to all the rithviks. 111

112 5.3 TN Alumni News: Aradhana Day Celebration in Prashanthi Nilayam: Members of TN Alumni had the great fortune of participating in the Aradhana Day Classical Music Festival at Prashanthi Nilayam. Two Buses left Sundaram with prominent singers, accompanying artists and the whole team. Industrial Tour of MBA Students from PN in Chennai TN Alumni had yet another Golden Opportunity to organize the industrial tour of MBA Students to various companies during their stay in Chennai from April 16th to 20th. Visits were organized at various leading corporate houses. Top Management interacted with them. Apart from this, guest lecturers were also organized at the venue of stay. The students and alumni had a great time and look forward to repeating the sessions in future. The BSSSO had organized the stay and food arrangements in the air conditioned marriage hall near Sundaram. The Sevadal Mothers (Mahila Wing) took care of the Children feeding them every session with tears trickling in their eyes for ha i g e ei ed a oppo tu it to se e a i s Child e. It was a great Sai Family experience for all. District president of Chennai South district -Sri.Chandrasekhar and District Service Coordinator Sri. Sarveswarn deserve a great appreciation for their love towards Swami. 112

113 90 Hour Bhajan at Sundaram Youth wing of TN organized a 90 hour Bhajan during April andmay2015.thetn Alumni slot was on Sunday May 1st. The rendering was filled with Love for Swami and it was yet another Premabandham in Sundaram. Participation in the Summer course at Prashanthi Nilayam Every year SSSIHL conducts a boot camp before commencement of academic year in Prashanthi Nilayam. This year it was a grand gathering at Poorna Chandra Auditorium where in the students and staffs from various campuses were gathered for Summer Course. TN Alumni from both PN campus and Anantapur Campus was invited to participate in the panel discussion. We Pray to Bhagawan to shower His blessings on all and continue to provide such opportunities in future. Guindy Temple: By the Grace of our Lord, the Alumni Bhajan on second Saturday has been continuing during this period, coordinated by brother Rangarajan. Irular Colony: TN Alumni are also engaged in Village improvement program, coordinated by brother Narasimhan. Service at Shanmuga Seva Illam: Monthly support to children at Shanmuga Seva Illam is handled by brother Nagasawamy. Sathya Sai Vidya Vihar- Tiruvottiyur: Sai Students engaged in the Program are Brother GautamNayak, Hariharasubramanian & Prakash. There are plans for facilitating the school meet at Parthy this year. 113

114 Vidya Vahini Sundaram : As the s hools e e pla i g to host a g a d p og a o the e e of Bhaga a s th Birthday, the TN Alumni had a grand meeting with brother Satyajit in Sundaram during the month of August. Our Lord was so gracious, as Vibhuti appeared the previous night when we entered the hall for holding the meet in the morning. This is the LOVE of our LORD. Let us continue to SERVE ALL. MBA Day at Prashanthi Nilayam: As the Department of Management was gearing up to celebrate their annual day, the guest speaker was TN Alumni Mr. Sridhar, who is an industrialist.the Teachers and students were very pleased and showered their love & affection on the Alumni. Mid-Year Alumni Meet at Prashanthi Nilayam: It was a grand session during the year of 90th Birthday. The mid-year meet focused on contribution and connection Alumni can have with University. Post this session, there has been an outstanding engagement of Alumni from different parts of India and abroad across various departments. Active TN Alumni team contributed to this program and the movement. 90 Satsangs for 90th Birthday : As part of 90th Birthday celebrations, TN Alumni coordinated guest speakers for BSSSO. The devotees at Chennai were pleased to hear from the faculty members of Swami's institutions. 114

115 Alumni from Andhra Pradesh: Another landmark was when the Alumni from Music College performed their heartfelt rendering under the leadership of MLN Swami from Hyderabad. Sweet Memories: As alumni from SSSIHL, it is our pleasure to recall memories of how the institution was built by HIS WILL in HIS DIVINE MISSION. A picture of Whitefield college inauguration is enclosed for memory recall. Celebrations at Sundaram on 23rd November: The Music group of TN Alumni actively participated in the week long celebrations at Sundaram, with a devotional rendering. 115

116 Participation at Birthday Celebration Seva: TN Alumni along with alumni from all over India participated in the Prasadam distribution activity covering Breakfast to Dinner during the weeklong celebration. There was immense satisfaction for the alumni who had participated in the Seva activity. Sai Prasadam Packing & Distribution: TN Alumni members actively participated in sourcing, packing and distribution of Sai Prasadam as BSSSO distributed to more than 30,000 families. A noteworthy mention is active support from Alumni in Hyderabad, Chandigarh & Delhi, Bahrain& Karnataka through their contribution by sending supplies of materials, when requested. SSSIHL Muddanahalli Campus: TN Alumni Anand participated in the MDP program and contributed towards developing the current batch of students. Interaction with All India President, Chennai TN Alumni had an extensive interaction with new AIP during June 2016, in identifying ways and means of engaging in Seva activities along with BSSSO. MBA Students Summer Chennai Senior Alumni were engaged in facilitating the Industrial Visit for the MBA students from SSSIHL at Chennai during the month of May

117 Jan1stAlumni Meet at Prashanthi Nilayam: TN Alumni participated with enthusiasm and Prayer during the Annual Premabandham Meet at Prashanthi Nilayam. HR Colloquium at SSSIHL: TN Alumni participated in HR Meet during Feb 2016 at SSSIHL, wherein Industry experts engaged with student's entire day. It was rewarding for both students as well as participants as all could experience Grace of Lord. Flower Seva: TN Alumni continue to Pray and participate in the Seva as part of Global Alumni program. Sweet Memories: As alumni from SSSIHL, we look forward to cherish old moments. PUC Coordinator TN Alumni was blessed to be in this earliest MBA PN. Celebrations at Sundaram: A special Bhajan Program was organized by brother T.V.Hariharan. A team of Senior Alumni participated in the event. 117

118 Participation at Parthy during Tamil New Year: TN Music Group participated extensively during the event conducted in April 2015 at Prashanthi Nilayam. TN Alumni Meet: TN Alumni was formed in the year 2010 with the Blessings of Bhagawan. The annual TN Alumni Meet was held in May 2016 at Sundaram. After the event there was Prasadam distribution to Alumni and to people attending the medical camp near Sundaram. Railway Station Public utility Seva: TN Alumni has been engaged in manning the NEW counter at the Public Utility Cell in Central Station, coordinated by brother Srinivasan Mobile Medical Camp: From June 2016, TN Alumni have been participating in the Mobile Medical Camp conducted under the BSSSO, Tamil Nadu. Dental Camp Facilitation by TN Alumni As an extension of holding dental camp with the Dental institution at Sathya Sai Vidya Vahini School at Tiruttani, Alumni were able to connect the services for BSSSO during May Catalyst Program: TN Alumni, Harikesh & others, participated in catalyst event during the year held in the month of April IT Application installation at Vidya Vahini school TN alumni lead by Raghuram & Hari completed the task of application commencement at Tiruttani School and Tiruvottiyur School. Brothers P.S.Ganesh and Sai Mahesh mobilized Computers and Library books at Tiruvottiyur School. Registration Management at Tamil Nadu Coordinators Meet in BSSSO: TN Alumni lead by brother Seshasayee, took up the seva for managing the state level Meet registration counter during the two day conference in Chennai held in June

119 5.4 Report on Sri Sathya Sai Schools- TamilnaduA. Training Programs: 8TH CERTIFICATE COURSE IN SRI SATHYA SAI EDUCARE (15 APR TO 05 MAY 2015) The 8th Certificate Course in Sri Sathya Sai Educare, hosted by Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Educare, Chromepet, Chennai (Tamilnadu), was successfully completed, under the able guidance of the Institute of Sathya Sai Education, Mumbai (India). The course was commenced on 15th April 2015 with a formal inaugural function. 14 teachers from 4 Sathya Sai Schools in Tamilnadu participated in the course. Sri J. Venugopal, District President of SSSSO, Kanchipuram (North) Dist, Tamilnadu and alumnus of SSSIHL, Prashanthi Nilayam was the chief guest for the inauguration function. The function began with the lighting of the Divine lamp by the chief guest and the participant teachers to mark the commencement of the course. Sri J. Venugopal, in his inaugural address emphasized that the tea he s of the ai hools a e the to h ea e s of Bhaga a s essage a d pla a ital ole i reaching the eternal message of Love & Service to the future generations. The presentations made by the faculty members were informative and motivational. All participants also i ol ed a d i te a ted ith the fa ult e e s. O e all, the e ti e ou se s sessio s e e ot just sit a d liste. The e e d a i, e pe ie tial and lively. As per the guidelines given by ISSE, Mumbai, the course was residential with important itineraries like Daily Aumkaram, Suprabhatham, Nagarsankeertan, Jyoti Meditation (morning and evening) and evening Bhajans. Group discussion and group presentations (instead of the old style of writing assignments) of the topics covered in the curriculum, by the participants, were also proved very successful. All the participants actively delivered the presentations and it brought out their understanding of the concepts dealt. The Course came to an end on 5th May 2015 with the valedictory function. Sri.S.Ganapathi, writer and State Coordinator- Sai Spiritual Awareness Programme, SSSSO, Tamilnadu presided over the function and addressed the participants. Sri.S.Ganapathi, in his inspiring speech, emphasized all the participants to be a Guru, than a teacher. Participants shared the experiences they gained during the course and thanked Bhagawan Baba. The valedictory song was sung by all the participants with their heart and soul as an offering to Bhagawan. The function was followed with a grand feast for all the participants. It is worth to mention here that all the participants served food for the kitchen and house-keeping staff of the course centre as a gratitude for the hospitality showed by them during their stay of 21 days. 119

120 This course has given the participants a great chance to re-discover the latent potential in each one of them. Being a residential course, it served as a perfect Sadhana time for participants to practice the various spiritual disciplines. The participants were provided with the necessary environment to imbibe values through practical experience and along with it the confidence that these values can be implemented in daily life. 19TH DIPLOMA COURSE AT ISSE MUMBAI (05 APR TO 17 MAY 2015) With a i s g a e, tea he s f o Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Educare, Chromepet and 1 teacher from Sri Sathya Sai Matriculation school, Kundarapalli successfully completed the Diploma course in Sri Sathya Sai Educare conducted at the Institute of Sathya Sai Education, Dharmakshetra, Mumbai for 45 days from 5th April 2015 to 17th May The course was an enlivening experience for all the participants. DIPLOMA MEET (12 JUL TO 15 JUL 2015) The Institute Of Sathya Sai Education, Dharmakshetra is organizing a 3-day Orientation course for all Diploma holders from 12th to 14th July 2015 at Dharmakshetra. B. Celebrations: SAI JAYANTHI CELEBRATIONS- Vandalur The Twelfth standard students got the golden opportunity to host the Sai Jayanthi celebrations in the school. The school students put up a variety of cultural programmes based on the glory of Sai Avatar at Sundaram on 18th November as a pa t of the o e eek ele atio of Bhaga a s birthday. As a culmination to all these events, the music team along with the Vice Principal of the s hool e e i ited to Whitefield to gi e a usi o e t o Bhaga a s i thda. The programme was titled O e With ai. It as a great blessing to be present in the Divine precincts of Brindavan, to be taken to the serene Trayee Brindavan and perform with devotion and make the thousands who had gathered there soak in devotion and suffuse with the unparallel love of our dear Mother Sai. This is truly an historic event for the school. C. Competitions: DISTRICT LEVEL KARATE COMPETITION- Kundarapalli Students participated in the district level Karate competition and won medals and certificates. 120

121 RENDERING OF SAI PANCHARATNA KRITIS AT SAI KULWANT HALL (24 APR 2015) - Vandalur A dumb person becomes eloquent and the lame is able to cross huge mountains when chosen and blessed by the Lord. The efficacy of this statement was experienced by the Vice Principal and six stude ts of the s hool s usi tea he the e e hose to e de the Sai Panchratna Kritis at the Sai Kulwant Hall, Prashanthi Nilayam on the Sai Aradhana Day. Pancha ratna kritis were composed and sung by Saint Thyagaraja around 250 years back. Now the devotees of Bhagawan have a beautiful, befitting way to express their love and gratitude to our Bhagawan by rendering these bhakti soaked musical masterpieces. The devotees at Prashanthi Nilayam witnessed this spectacular group which comprised of music professionals, Sai students, professors of a i s Music college and also school students coming together and offering the first of its kind, Classical Music ai Pa h at a K itis at Bhaga a s lotus feet. The e e lessed ith e e tos reserved by Bhagawan to be given to them after the concert. The management, staff and students of the school offer our gratitude to Bhagawan for blessing us with this life cherishing opportunity. Community Service: FREE MEDICAL CAMP (26 APR 2015) Sri Sathya Sai Vidhya Vahini Team and Narayana Nethralaya, Bangalore conducted a Mega Free Medical Camp in our school on The camp was co-ordinated by brother Mahesh, SSSVV. The SSSVV team trained our VIII and IX class students before 15 days of the programme. The students went door to door in the villages and communicated to the villagers about the medical camp. For nearly 10 days, our students and staff collected reports for the medical camp from the villages. About 50 volunteers and 10 doctors came to our school and conducted the free medical camp. Nearly, 1500 patients enrolled from various villages received treatment and consultation from the doctors. The camp was conducted on general medicine, diabetics, dental check-up, blood pressure, child health check-up, eye check-up et. The patie ts e e dist i uted f ee edi i es a d a i s Prasadam. A drama about health and hygiene was also conducted by the students. 25 cataract patients were taken to Bangalore Narayana Nethralaya and free eye operations were done. 110 people were given spectacles free of charge. The medical camp was a huge success with the grace of our lord. 121

122 EXCELLENT RESULTS IN THE X AND XII BOARD EXAMINATIONS With the blessings of Bhagawan, all the Sai schools in Tamil Nadu which had gone for board examinations came out with flying colours in the X and XII board examinations Some students scored top score at the state level. S.No School Name Sri Sathya Sai Mat.Hr. Sec School, Erode Sri Sathya Sai Mat. School, Kundarapalli Sri Viswa Vidhyalaya Mat.Hr.Sec.School, Vandalur Board Matriculation Matriculation Matriculation Percentage X: 100% XII: 100% X: 100% X: 99% XII: 100% Highlights X Std X: Highest Score: 491/500 All Passed in First class. 28 out of 36 scored above 450. Centum n Maths: 10, Centum in Science: 14, centum in Social: 6 X: Highest Score: 495/500 5th rank at State level All Passed in first Classs. Centum in Maths: 2, centum in Science: 18, Centum in Social: 13 X: Highest Score: 492/ out of 85 students passed in first class. Centum in Maths: 3, Centum in Science: 1, Centum in Social: 10, Centum in Sanskrit: 1 Highlights XII Std XII Higest Score: 1148/1200 All Passed in first class. 5 students above 195 out of 200 Centum in Maths: 1, Centum in Commerce: 1 NIL XII Highest Score: 1163/ students scored abv 1100 and 35 abv Centum in Accountancy: 3, Centum in Commerce: 2, Centum in Business maths: 1, Centum in Sanskrit: 1 4 Sri Sathya Sai Vidhya Vihar Mat.Hr. Sec. School, Thiruvotriyour Matriculation XII: 98% X: 99% X: Highest Score: 497/500 3rd rank at State Level. 5 students scored abv 475. Centum in Maths: 2, Centum in Science: 10, Centum in Social: 3 5 Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Educare, Chrompet CBSE X: 100% X: Highest Score: 10/10 CGPA 5 students scored abv 9 points. 9 students scored abv 8 points. NIL 6 Sri Sathya Sai BalaGurukulam Mat. School, Palayamkottai Matriculation X: 100% X: Highest Score: 468/500 6 students abv 450. Centum in Science: 1, Centum in Social: 3 NIL 7 Sri Sathya Sai BalaGurukulam Mat. School, Mathagiri Matriculation X: 78% X: Highest Score: 454/500 Centum in Science: 1 NIL XII: Highest Score: 949/

123 6. SRI SATHYA SAI TRUST- TAMILNADU BHAGWAN SRI SRI SRI SATHYA SAI BABA VARU, FOUNDER TRUSTEE- SSST-TN PADMASRI DR.V.MOHAN, TRUSTEE, CONVENER SSST-TN SHRI.N.RAMANI, TRUSTEE- NATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT- SSSSO(I) PROF. S.P. THYAGARAJAN, TRUSTEE DR. M. VIJAYKUMAR, TRUSTEE SHRI. R. RAJAGOPAL, TRUSTEE SHRI. K. RAMAN, TRUSTEE SHRI. M. BHOOPALAN, TRUSTEE SHRI. L.ADIMOOLAM, TRUSTEE SHRI. L. RAJ MOHAN, TRUSTEE SHRI. G.VARADHAN, STATE PRESIDENT- SSSSO-TN SHRI. K.R.SURESH, STATE VICE PRESIDENT- SSSSO-TN The SSST-TN has been engaged in supporting and sustaining the Socio welfare projects of the SSSSOTN. Some of the prominent areas supported by the State Trust can be broadly classified into: Education Health care Relief to the poor Objects of general public utility EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE SSST-TN supports the deserving students by awarding scholarships, Paying whole or part of the educational costs of the deserving students. Paying to needy students, school fees, college fees, books, instruments and tools etc. To provide all kinds of relief to the poor, including distribution of books, note books, clothes, uniforms or meals for the poor students and Indigents. It supports the organisation to conduct various EHV seminars at various educational institutions in the state. MEDICAL ASSISTANCE The u i g of ai K ipa dispe sa e t to u da a, Che ai ate i g to the egle ted section of the society. Conducting rural camps and providing health education to all the patients has been the hall mark of this dispensary. The loving care by the medical fraternity a d the i a ulous u e Bhag a s g a e ha e ade the patie ts g o in number and seek remedy. Organising regular medical camps across the state, conducting regular diabetic screening camps at Sai Shruthi-The hill abode of our Bhagwan and at Sai Kailash- Sai mandir at Nilgris wherein more that 500 people in every camp is been screened for diabetics. To hold, host, conduct medical camps, spreading necessary medical information and publishing literature or pamphlets for general improvement of health conditions. 123

124 Extending medi-care to the adopted SSSVIP villages and the constant follow up of the needy patients were done with the active support of the State Trust. The Trust also widely supports Narayanseva during major festival days, SSSVIP programs and also while conducting mega medical camps. RELIEF TO THE POOR To strive hard to improve the living conditions of people in the surrounding villages by providing material amenities and spiritual inspiration. To rescue and assist in the rehabilitation of people affected in the natural calamities such as floods, earthquakes and landslides. To provide free food and/ or groceries to the deprived sections of the society and improve their living conditions to have a healthy and hygienic life. OBJECTS OF GENERAL PUBLIC UTILITY Wo ki g fo the ause of the o ld pea e a d p ospe it Ba a s de otees sp ead all o e the o ld. joi i g ha d ith illio s of Financials- Income & Expenditure Account for the Year Ended 31st March 2016 (Amounts in Lakhs of Rupees) EXPENDITURE INCOMES Expenses on Education Activities 5.90 Voluntary Contributions Medical Relief Expenses Interest Income Relief to Poor & Needy General Public Utility Projects Expenses (Including Maintenance & Depreciation on Assets) Administrative Expenses Surplus - Excess of Income over Expenditure

125 Balance Sheet as at 31st March 2016 (Amounts in Lakhs of Rupees) LIABILITIES Capital Fund General Fund Ear Marked Funds ASSETS Fixed Assets Capital work in Progress Investments Current Assets For The Board of Trustees For Vaidhyanathan Narayanan & Co. chartered Accountants Dr.V.Mohan V.Naranayan Convener- Board of Trustees, SSST-TN. partner 7. Conclusion: The saga of the Kaliyuga A atar ontinues..in its o n su tle ay as per Will of our Lord. The attempt to documenting the multifarious activities of this Divine Organization and appreciating its enormity is a matter of great thrill and joy, a source of pro found wisdom and message and a matter of immense fulfilment and satisfaction. Needless to say, what has been covered is just a drop in the ocean, for there is so much that the silent sevaks across the length and breadth of the State have rendered without t he desire of being recognised. But what has been reported and documented truly reflects the unfolding of the Divine mission as envisaged by our Beloved Bhagwan. 125

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