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Sri Sathya Sai Ashtottara

Group I – 1 to 54 Namavali

Introduction

Sri Sathya Sai Baba says, “Have the ‘Namam’ (Name of God) on your tongue, the ‘Rupam’ (Form of God) in your eye and the Glory of God in your heart. Then, thunderbolts will pass you gently by.”

Sri Sathya Sai Ashtottara contains the Name and Glory of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba.

Why is recitation recommended 108 or 1008 times?

Not because the Lord is pleased when praised loud and long, but because there is just a chance that we will utter at least one out of 108 or 1008 names with sincere feeling and the Lord who is ever alert to respond to sincerity will hear that one and bless us.

Significance of the number 108 and 1008

The digits of 108 and 1008 are 1 and 8. The total of 1 + 8 = 9.

The number 9 is called the divine number or Para Brahma Sankhya because this number is immutable. When it is multiplied by any number, the digits in the answer always total to 9. For example, 9 x 3 = 27. The total of 2 + 7 = 9.

Significance of Om or Aum

Om, also written as Aum, is the Primeval sound through which the Lord created the entire Universe. It is the root of all sounds in the Universe. It pervades all Creation. The five elements vibrate with this sound. It is also called Pranava, because it is the inner sound in all beings.

All Names attributed to God are subsumed and treasured in the sound Om. Hence it is a very powerful sound. Just as a long train of coaches moves forward when it is linked to a railway engine, all incantations become potent and fruitful when they are preceded by the sound Om.

1. Om Sri Sathya Sai Babaya Namah

Humble salutations to Sri Sathya Sai Baba.

Sri – Prosperity and Glory.

Sathya – Truth, the Inner Reality of all, God.

Sai Baba – Sa (Sarveswara, Lord) + Ai (Ayi, Mother) + Baba (father): Divine Mother and Father of the Universe, the Source and Sustenance of the Universe.

Namah – Humble salutations; to bow down, an outer gesture of inner surrender.

2. Om Sri Sai Sathya Swaroopaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is the embodiment of Truth.

Swaroopa - form.

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He is the Lord in Human Form. He was born to Easwaramma and Peda Venkappa Raju on November 23, 1926 in the village of Puttaparthi. One day when Easwaramma was fetching water from the well, a flash of divine light entered her body. She soon realized that she was going to give birth to a Divine Child.

Other indications of the impending arrival of the Divine Child were that musical instruments in the house played by themselves during the night.

On November 23, 1926, Peda Venkappa Raju’s mother Lakshamma had gone early in the morning to perform the Puja of Lord Sathyanarayana. After completing her puja, she came home and gave her daughter-in-law, Easwaramma the flowers and prasaadam from the puja. Immediately after, the Lord was born. As He was born after His mother had the prasaadam of Lord Sathyanarayana, He was named Sathyanarayana. Sathya had a tiny mole on His left cheek. On His soles could be seen the signs of shankha (conch) and chakra (disc) which are insignia of divinity.

He was placed on a sheet in a corner of the room. A little later, a cobra was seen under the sheet. It was truly Lord Vishnu reclining on the Sheshanaag.

3. Om Sri Sai Sathya Dharma Paraayanaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who propagates Truth and Righteousness.

Sathya – Truth, Dharma – righteousness, Paraayana – interested in, absorbed in.

Baba has come to establish Sathya (Truth), Dharma (Righteousness), Shaanti (Peace), and Prema (Love) in the world.

From His childhood, He used to teach His friends the importance of Truth and Righteousness. He told them, “Never deviate from the path of Truth in your daily life under any circumstance. Never speak untruth. There is nothing more powerful than the Truth. Truth alone will protect you.”

Bhagawan Baba lays stress on the development of character and discipline. He says, “The end of education is character.”

He has started several schools and colleges and a deemed University at Prasanthi Nilayam. Here the students acquire not only academic excellence and skills but also gain Self knowledge and Self confidence. They become shining examples of spiritual awareness and its beneficial consequences to the individual and to society.

4. Om Sri Sai Varadaaya Namah

Salutation to Lord Sai who is the giver of boons.

Vara – boon, daaya – giver.

As a young boy, Sathya would give His friends sweets, pencils and other items, which he ‘took out’ from an empty bag.

Sometimes, young Sathya would take His friends to a tamarind tree which was situated on a hillock. He would ask his friends which fruit they wanted and then He would pluck from that tamarind tree a variety of fruits as desired by His playmates, even if the fruits were not in season.

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The tamarind tree became famous as the “Kalpa Vriksha” (wish fulfilling tree).

As time went on, people came with bigger desires and problems. Swami continued to give them the boons they desired. One of the greatest boons Swami has conferred is the boon of Knowledge given in His speeches and writings, and through holistic educational institutions.

An alumnus of Baba’s College was sitting in front of an interview board in search of a job. One of the interviewers asked him, “We hear that your Sai Baba gives gifts to people – watches, chains, rings. What has He given you?”

The student smiled and answered, “Sir, I come from a poor village and if today I sit in front of as great an interview board as yours, applying for as honourable a post as this, what greater gift can I ask for than what I have already received from Sri Sathya Sai Baba – the gift of education, totally free of cost?”

5. Om Sri Sai Sath Purushaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is the Eternal One.

Sath – Eternal Truth, Purusha – Supreme Person.

Sai is the God who has come in human form in the Kaliyuga. Lord Krishna says in the Gita, “Dharma Sansthaapanaarthaaya Sambhavaami Yuge Yuge”. (I will descend in human form in every age to establish Righteousness).

Young Sathya lived with His grandfather Shri Kondamma Raju, who was surprised to hear the sound of Omkaar, the primeval sound, from Sathya’s breath when He was sleeping, showing His Divinity. On other occasions, he used to hear the sound of Soham from His breath.

6. Om Sri Sai Sathya Gunaatmane Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai in whom all Divine qualities are manifest.

Guna – attributes, Aatmane – Divine.

Baba is Omnipresent, Omniscient and Omnipotent.

Once Swami had come to Dharmakshetra in Mumbai during the monsoons. A public meeting was to commence at 6 p.m. At about 5.15 p.m. the sky was overcast. It was feared that the meeting would be disrupted by heavy rains.

Some of the office bearers felt that the meeting should be started earlier. Accordingly Shri Indulal Shah requested Baba, “Baba, can we start the meeting a little early?”

“Why?” asked Baba.

Shri Indubhai pleaded, “Bhagawan, it is likely to rain, the meeting may be disrupted, the devotees may suffer.”

Baba smiled. He held Shri Indubhai’s hand and took him to the window and showed him that the rains had already started.

Baba said, “Yes, yes, it will rain and it will rain very heavily.” Then Baba raised His hand through the window. In a moment, the drizzle stopped and the dark clouds disappeared.

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The meeting started as scheduled. During the meeting, Shri Indubhai realized that momentarily he had forgotten that Baba is God and that He had command over the elements. He was now given conclusive proof that Baba is All Powerful.

7. Om Sri Sai Saadhu Vardhanaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who increases the goodness of the people of the world.

Saadhu – good and virtuous, Vardhana – increase.

Even as a young child, Sathya could not tolerate cruelty to any living being. He discouraged people, including his family, from slaughter of animals for food. When a bird was selected for dinner, Sathya would run to it and hug it, pleading with the elders to relent and spare it.

He disapproved of the bullock cart races and cock fights held in the village. He said, “They are torturing mute animals and birds just for the sake of fun. I do not agree to this.” He managed to persuade the elders to stop these sports.

Swami’s message of Sathya, Dharma, Shaanti, Prema and Ahimsa has touched the lives of millions of people and has brought about a transformation in them.

The various educational institutions started by Baba not only give the best of conventional education, but unlike other educational institutions, they stress on the importance of human values. When the blessed students join the mainstream, they are shining examples of good character and values. His students are the agents of transformation in all walks of life. They are the harbingers of the new age that He has come to usher in.

8. Om Sri Sai Saadhujana Poshanaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who fosters the virtuous.

Saadhu – good and virtuous, Jana – persons, Poshana – to foster, guard.

Baba looks after the welfare of the good. One morning in Bangkok, during the Second World War, Dr. Art-Ong Jumsai’s mother heard a knock on the door. When she opened it, she saw a person dressed in an orange robe. He gave her a packet of ‘fine powder which looked like white sand’ and instructed her to sprinkle it all over the house. He spoke to her in her own language and assured her that it would protect the house from getting bombed. The lady did as she was told.

Soon after, there was heavy bombardment of the area. All the buildings around the house were destroyed, but this house remained untouched.

Many years later, Swami revealed to Dr. Jumsai that it was He who had given to his mother a packet of Vibhuti for their protection.

9. Om Sri Sai Sarvajnyaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is All Knowing.

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Sarvajna – He who knows everything, Omniscient.

Devotees have frequently found that Swami knows all about their past, present and future even though they have never told Him about themselves. He knows their problems, discusses them and solves them even before the devotee can even mention them.

When Sathya was a small child, one day an Englishman’s jeep suddenly stopped outside the village. All efforts to get it started, were in vain. The driver told him that there was a ‘wonder boy’ near by who might be able to help. When Sathya was located and was told of the problem, he agreed to go to the jeep.

When they reached the jeep, Sathya told the Englishman, “You have killed a tigress which did no harm to you. She was caring for her cubs when you hunted her down in the jungle. Her cubs are missing her. It was I who made your vehicle break down to make you realize this.” The Englishman was stunned.

Little Sathya told him, “You should never kill a living being for your own enjoyment.” He told him that he must promise to find the cubs and give them to a zoo. “If you promise to do that, I will get the jeep started.”

When the man promised, Sathya touched the jeep and it started.

10. Om Sri Sai Sarva Jana Priyaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is dear to all.

Sarva – all, Jana – people, Priya – dear.

From childhood, Sathya was very popular with not only the children, but also the grown ups. He was also the favourite of the teachers at school.

Today, wherever Swami is, people from all walks of life, and from many countries, the rich and the poor, scholars and illiterates, politicians, industrialists and others, all gather to have a glimpse of Him.

He is venerated by millions of people throughout the world as an apostle of Love and Peace. He loves all and is loved by all.

11. Om Sri Sai Sarva Shakti Moortaye Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai, who is the embodiment of all Divine Powers.

Sarva – all, Shakti – Powers, Moorti – image, symbol, embodiment.

All the divine powers are seen in Baba’s innumerable miracles like healing the ‘incurable’, being present in more than one place at the same time, granting special visions, producing vibhuti (holy ash) and other gifts by a mere wave of the hand, bringing the dead back to life, saving people from accidents and many others.

When Baba stayed in the old temple in Puttaparthi, once there were heavy floods and the River Chitravati started overflowing. The waters reached the Temple and surrounded it. Everyone was afraid that in a few moments the water would enter the temple and inundate everything.

At that moment, Baba walked into the waters and said, “That’s enough. Go back now.” Immediately the floods began to recede. Baba’s will is obeyed immediately even by the elements.

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12. Om Sri Sai Sarveshaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is the Lord of all.

Sarva – all, Isa – Lord, (Sarveshaa – all manifestations of God).

“All Names and Forms are mine”, He says. He appears as Lord Krishna to those who worship Him in that form, as Lord Jesus to the Christians, as Lord Rama to some and as the Divine Mother to others.

Once a Roman Catholic couple went to Prashanthi Nilayam. The lady was very hesitant as she did not believe in Baba. Baba called them for an interview. The man asked Baba if he could click a few photographs. Baba agreed. When the couple went back and developed the film, they were astonished to see not Sri Sathya Sai Baba in the pictures, but Jesus Christ.

13. Om Sri Sai Sarva Sanga Parityaagine Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who has given up all worldly attachments.

Sangam – bond, attachment, Parityaaga – sacrifice, give up.

14 year old Sathya attended school at Urvakonda where he stayed with his brother Shri Seshama Raju. On October 20, 1940, He returned from school as usual. Standing on the outer doorstep, He cast aside His books and called out, “I am no longer your Sathya, Iam Sai. I am going. I don’t belong to you. Maya has gone. My bhaktas are calling Me. I have my work.” He then turned back and left in spite of His sisterin-law’s pleadings. He moved into the garden of Shri Anjaneyulu, the Excise Inspector, and sat on a rock. The people who had followed Him, sat around Him. Here Sathya taught them the first bhajan “Manasa bhajare, Guru charanam, dustara bhava saagara taranam.” (Oh Man, worship the feet of the Guru who takes you across the ocean of Life.)

14. Om Sri Sai Sarva Antaryaamine Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is the indweller of all.

Antar – inside, Yaami – dweller.

Swami dwells in us all. He knows what each one wants and gives it at the appropriate time.

One of the students was very worried because he had asked his parents for money and had not yet received it. Swami saw him looking worried and asked him what the matter was. The boy did not reply. Swami told him, “You wrote a letter to your father asking for money. You have not received the money order yet. I know.”

Then He told the boy to pick up any envelope from the bunch of letters He had taken from the devotees. He asked the boy to open it. When the boy opened it, he found a Rs. 500/- note inside.

Swami told the stunned boy, “Take it. It is for you. You asked for only Rs. 500/-. If you would have asked for more, I would have given you more.”

Swami says, “I declare that I am in everyone, in every being. You can hear My footsteps for I walk with you, behind you, beside you. When you cry out in agony, My ear will be there to listen. Ask that I protect you. My eye will be there to watch over you and guard you."

15. Om Sri Sai Mahimaatmane Namah

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Salutations to Lord Sai who is a great and glorious soul.

Mahimaatmane – glory personified.

Sai is the Divine in human form. He is the fountainhead of all good and divine qualities. He is a Supreme Artist and Architect. He can create objects of indescribable beauty with a wave of His hand. He can speak all languages. He knows all the Scriptures and all the Sciences, although He has never received any formal education beyond early schooling.

The miracles of Baba are done with a purpose to inspire and encourage faith.

Dr.Prabha, a gynaecologist who has been with the Sri Sathya Sai General Hospital for more than 30 years, says that in the initial stages of her career in Nigeria, she had received a packet of vibhuti from a gentleman who told her it was from Sri Sathya Sai Baba. She had no knowledge of Baba but kept the packet. Soon after, one of her patients was in a critical condition. The case seemed totally hopeless. Then she suddenly remembered the vibhuti packet. She applied the vibhuti on the patient and was amazed to see that she recovered completely.

When she came to lndia, she went to see Baba. As she says, “The doctor, who came to investigate, was conquered and remained to pray at the Divine Lotus Feet.”

16. Om Sri Sai Maheshwara Swaroopaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai, who is the embodiment of Lord Shiva.

Maheshwara - Another name for Lord Shiva.

Swaroopa - Real Form.

When Baba was a student at Urvakonda, His elder brother Shri Seshama Raju, who was a teacher in the school, organized a trip to Hampi to see the famous temple of Lord Virupaksha (Shiva). Sathya stayed outside, while all the others went into the temple. When the temple priest was offering Aarati to the deity, the devotees saw Sathya in the Sanctum Sanctorum in place of the deity, Lord Virupaksha.

Shri Seshama Raju was angry. He thought Sathya had somehow sneaked in. He went out in anger only to see Sathya still standing outside the temple. He could not believe it. He told someone to go into the shrine and see if Sathya was still there, while he himself stood outside to keep an eye on Him. He was stunned to find that Sathya was standing both inside and outside the temple.

Sathya had given a glimpse of His Divinity, of His Omnipresence and His Reality.

17. Om Sri Sai Parthi Gramodbhavaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is born in the village of Puttaparthi.

Parthi – Puttaparthi, Gram – village, Udbhava - birth.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba was born to Easwaramma and Peda Venkappa Raju on November 23, 1926 in Puttaparthi in Andhra Pradesh. Before He was born, musical instruments in the house used to play of their own accord. Astrologers predicted a Divine lncarnation was about to take place.

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Puttaparthi was earlier known as 'Gollapali' which means 'the village of cowherds’. It was a prosperous village. One day a cowherd noticed that one of his cows was returning home every day with an empty udder. He followed her to find out the reason behind it. He saw to his amazement that a snake came out of a snake hill and began to drink the milk from the udder. The cowherd became angry and hurled a heavy stone at the snake and killed it.

After this incident, the cowherd families declined in number and snake hills proliferated all over. People believed it was due to the curse of the dying snake. This is how Golapalli came to be called Puttaparthi (village of snake hills).

After the birth of Swami, the village has again been transformed into a prosperous place.

18. Om Sri Sai Parthi Kshetra Nivaasine Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who resides in the region of Puttaparthi.

Kshetra – region, Nivas - residence.

At the age of fourteen, Baba revealed His Divine Mission in Urvakonda. As people started coming from distant places to see Him and request Him to come to their towns for darshan, His parents were worried that He would leave them and go far away. His mother Easwaramma told young Sathya, “Please son, give us your word that you will remain in Puttaparthi only. Let your devotees come here. We will welcome them happily." Sathya replied, "l have chosen Puttaparthi as my kshetra. The boon granted is not only for you, but for the village, the world itself."

As His fame spread and people from all over the world started pouring in for His darshan, the small village gradually grew into a major spiritual centre, called Prasanthi Nilayam, 'The Abode of Peace'. Baba has declared, “This Parthi will become another Tirupati, another Mathura.”

19. Om Sri Sai Yashah Kaaya Shirdi Vaasine Nanah

Salutations to Lord Sai, who was famous in the previous incarnation as resident of Shirdi.

Yasha – fame, Kaaya – body, Vaas – residence.

Sai Baba of Shirdi exhibited extraordinary spiritual powers. His fame spread far and wide. Towards the end of Shirdi Sai’s earthly life, He told His devotees not to grieve at His passing away, because He was going to be reborn after eight years. He passed away in 1918. Sri Sathya Sai Baba was born in 1926.

Young Sathya gave clues about His identity with the Saint of Shirdi even from His childhood. He taught His companions songs on a Sai Baba whom no one in that part of India had heard of and on Shirdi, a place of pilgrimage which no one knew about.

At the age of fourteen, He announced that He is an incarnation of Sai Baba of Shirdi. When asked to prove it, He called for some jasmine flowers which were given to Him. He threw them on the floor. They miraculously formed the words 'Sai Baba' in Telugu.

Several years later, Swami visited the palace of the Rani of Chincholi, when she invited Him. The Raja, who had passed away several years earlier, had been an ardent devotee of Shirdi Sai Baba. Swami asked the Rani about the stone image of Anjaneya which Shirdi Baba had given the Raja. The Rani did not even know that it existed. Baba Himself found it for her in the Palace!

20. Om Sri Sai Jodi Aadipalli Somappaya Namah

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Salutations to Lord Sai, who is the personification of the male and female aspects of God, Shiva – Shakti.

It was November 25, 1958. A devotee and his family left for Bangalore after witnessing Swami's birthday festivities at Prasanthi Nilayam. On the way, there was a crisis as their 2 year old daughter was attacked by fits and suddenly stopped breathing. In their agony, the family looked around for help. An old man appeared from nowhere. He took the baby in his arms. At his touch, the girl showed signs of life and cried. The parents were overjoyed.

When he was asked his name, the old man replied 'Jodi Aadipalli Somappa'. Later Baba confirmed that it was indeed He who had revived the girl.

Baba explained the significance of the name as follows: 'Aadipalli' means ‘the original village’, Kailasam, Lord Shiva's abode; Jodi means ‘couple’; Soma is (Sa + Uma i.e. Lord Shiva + Parvati, Shakti); Appa is 'father'. Hence Swami is ‘Shiva-Shakthi’. Bhagawan thus revealed His real identity as the personification of Shiva-Shakti.

21. Om Sri Sai Bhaaradwaaja Rishi Gotraaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is born in the family lineage of the Great Saint Bhaaradwaaja.

Bhaaradwaaja - name of famous sage with amazing miraculous powers attained by tapas (rigorous penances), Rishi- sage, Gotra - lineage.

On May 23, 1940 Sathya rose from bed as usual. After some time, he called the members of the household around Him and gave them sugar candy and flowers taken from nowhere.

At this, neighbours too rushed in. He gave each of them a ball of rice cooked in milk which He materialized by a mere wave of the hand.

His father Shri Venkappa Raju thought they were all tricks.

Arming himself with a stick, he accosted Sathya. "Who are you? Are you a God or a ghost or a madcap? Tell me!" he shouted.

Sathya calmly replied, “I am Sai Baba. I belong to the Apasthamba Sutra. I am of Bhaaradwaaja Gotra. I have come to ward off your troubles.”

22. Om Sri Sai Bhakta Vatsalaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is very affectionate to His devotees like a mother.

Bhakta - devotee, Vatsalyam - affection of a mother for her child.

We are all children of our Divine Mother Sri Sathya Sai Baba.

Once when a student had developed a fracture on his foot, Swami called the boy and materialized a special ointment. He Himself applied the ointment on his foot. The boy was very embarrassed that Swami was applying the ointment on his foot. He pleaded with Swami not to do so.

Swami replied. “If you were at home, would not your mother have done the same? I am your mother!”

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23. Om Sri Sai Apaantara Aatmane Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai, Who as the Universal Consciousness, dwells in the heart of every being.

Antara atma - lnner self.

Swami says, “l am the Atma that dwells in all living beings.”

In Kodaikanal, when Baba was with the students, He asked one boy, “Did you sleep well last night?” He added, “I know you did not sleep soundly. You had an upset stomach.”

During dinner at Kodai, Swami personally supervises the serving of food. Without being told, He knows each one's favourite dish and ensures that they get a second helping of that dish. How does He know all this? He knows this Only because He dwells in each one of us.

24. Om Sri Sai Avataara Moortaye Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is the embodiment of all incarnations.

Avataar – incarnation, Moorti – image, embodiment.

Swami has revealed Himself in various forms of Avataars. He has appeared as Lord Rama to those devotees whose favourite form of God is Lord Rama. He has appeared as Lord Krishna to those who worship this form, as Lord Ganapati to some and even as Mother Kali to others.

Once young Sathya went with His playmates to the Anjaneya Swami (Hanuman) temple. He told the boys ”You perform circumambulation to Anjaneya Swami and come back. I will stay here.” But the children would not go without Him. They insisted that He accompany them. Finally Sathya agreed. He started walking around the temple. A big monkey suddenly appeared from nowhere and stood in front of Him obstructing His path. The children tried their best to drive it away. But it would not move.

They did not realize that monkey was Hanuman himself, who prayed to Swami, “Swami, I am the one who has to do circumambulation to you. You should not do it for me.”

Swami says, “This is the human form in which every divine entity, every divine principle, that is to say, all the names and forms ascribed by man to God are manifest. You are very fortunate that you have a chance to experience the bliss of the vision of the Sarva Devata Swaroopa, now, in this very life."

25. Om Sri Sai Sarva Bhaya Nivaarine Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who removes all fears.

Bhaya – fears, Nivaarana – to remove.

Swami’s hand raised in Abhaya-Hasta (raised palm) is a gesture of assurance of Abhaya, which means ‘Do not fear’. This gesture assures us of protection from disease, despair, disasters, doubts and fears. Even before you ask, Sai Baba hastens to give you protection.

Once a heavy truck crushed the leg of a young boy who was participating in construction activity at Prasanthi Nilayam. The boy's brother ran to Swami crying that his younger brother had lost his leg.

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Swami told him, “Do not worry. Nothing has happened to his leg.” He showed the boy His palm on which the marks of the truck’s heavy tyre could be clearly seen. Swami had inserted His own hand between the truck's tyre and the young boy's leg to protect the boy, even before the boy called out to Him.

26. Om Sri Sal Aapasthamba Sootraaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is born in the lineage of Brahmarishi Aapasthamba.

Aapasthamba - Sage who underwent ascetic practices for many years and eventually had a vision of Lord Shiva. He wrote a sootra (treatise) of rituals and spiritual practices.

In His fourteenth year, Baba declared that He belonged to the lineage of Sage Aapasthamba.

27. Om Sri Sai Abhaya Pradaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who gives security to all.

Abhaya - fearless, Pradaaya – gives.

“Why fear when I am near? I am in you, with you, around you, guiding you and guarding you.” Baba assures all.

He is our unfailing friend in need. He saves us from physical and spiritual problems. He sends us friends and funds when we need them. He protects us from all harm. He comes in His own form or in any other form to rescue us when we are in distress.

Moorthy, Shri Kasturi's son, was chased by a wild bear, when he was alone in the forest areas of Assam, where he had gone for work. As he desperately ran from the bear, he tripped and fell, but continued to call “Baba! Baba!” Within moments, a truck appeared from nowhere and Moorthy was saved by getting into it. A few months later when he went to Prasanthi Nilayam, Swami told him, “I received your phone call and despatched a truck. Did it reach you in time?”

28. Om Sri Sai Ratnakara Vamshodbhavaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is born in the family of Ratnakara.

Vamsha - family, Udbhava - born.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba was born in the family of Ratnakara Raju. Baba says that whenever God incarnates, He selects the appropriate family and place. Baba chose the Ratnakara dynasty for this incarnation. A pious person named Venkavadhoot had prophesized to Baba's grandfather Sri Kondamma Raju, “God Himself is going to incarnate in your family. You will have the good fortune to see this.”

29. Om Sri Sai Shirdi Sai Abheda Shaktya Avataaraaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai whose glory is not different from that of Shirdi Avataar.

Abheda – not different, Shakti - glory, Avataar - incarnation.

Once when Sri Sathya Sai Baba was touring Kerala, Swami pointed out to Dr. Bhagawantam, an old lady standing in a corner of a huge gathering. He mentioned that He had known her ever since her childhood.

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Dr, Bhagawantam wondered, “Baba is much younger. That woman is clearly much older. How could it be that her childhood is known to Swami?" Baba promptly clarified that He had known her in His previous incarnation of Shirdi Sai Baba.

A little later Dr. Bhagawantam approached the old woman and enquired, “Did you ever visit Shirdi?”

She replied, “When I was a little child, my uncle took me to Shirdi for Baba's darshan. Baba gave me a pendant that I still wear round my neck.” She showed it to Dr. Bhagawantam whose doubts were cleared.

In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna says, “O Arjuna, you and I have passed through numerous births. I possess the awareness of all those births; but you do not.”

30. Om Sri Sai Shankaraaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who confers happiness and prosperity.

Sham - happiness, Karaa - one who bestows.

Shankar is another name for Lord Shiva. Shiva means 'auspiciousness'.

Baba brings auspiciousness into the lives of his devotees. He confers happiness and prosperity. He lights the lamp of knowledge and dispels the darkness of ignorance. Baba has given visions of Himself as Lord Shiva in the Virupaksha temple in Hampi as well as in the Shiva temple in Kothanghatta, where His form is visible in the lingam, along with His Shirdi Sai form.

31. Om Sri Sai Shirdi Sai Moortaye Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is the incarnation of Lord Shirdi Sai.

Sharada Devi, a resident of Andhra Pradesh, was an ardent devotee of Shirdi Sai Baba. Just before Baba passed away he told her, “I will be reborn in Andhra region with the same name of Sai Baba. You will then come to Me, and enjoy My close company.”

Many years later, she met young Sathya who was then 16 years old. He told her that she owed Him Rs. 16. She was amazed as she was meeting Him for the first time. He reminded her that many years earlier, she had collected Rs.40 for sending to Shirdi, but had sent only Rs.24. Baba told her, “I am telling you this merely to prove to you that I am Shirdi Sai Baba.”

She then stayed and served at Prasanthi Nilayam for many years and was lovingly called ‘Pedabottu’ after the big bindi which she used to wear on her forehead.

32. Om Sri Sai Dwaarakaa Maayi Vaasine Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is the resident of Dwaarakaa Mayi.

Vaas - residence.

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Sri Sathya Sai, in His previous incarnation, lived in a dilapidated mosque called Dwaarakaamaayi in Shirdi. Dwaarakaa means ‘a place whose doors are always open to all.’ Mayi means ‘mother’. Swami's present abode Prasanthi Nilayam also welcomes all, irrespective of their caste, creed or nationality.

Baba regularly materialises Vibhuti or Sacred Ash by a wave of the hand and gives it to devotees as a token of His blessings. It is preserved carefully and is an armour against all dangers, illnesses and negative influences.

In this Avataar, the Vibhuti is a continuation of the Udi or ash which Shirdi Sai Baba used to give as blessings to those who went to Him.

On Shivaratri, Shri Kasturi used to hold an upturned pot over Shirdi Baba's Idol in Poornachandra auditorium in Prasanthi Nilayam. Swami used to put His hand into the empty pot with His shirt sleeve pulled back and churn out an unending stream of vibhuti on the image of his Shirdi form.

33. Om Sri Sai Chitraavati Tata Puttaparthi Vihaarine Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who sports (His Leelaas) in Puttaparthi on the banks of the river Chitravati.

Tata - bank of river, Vihaar - sports.

Baba used to spend much time with the devotees on the banks of the Chitravati river. Those were moments of utter joy and wonder. He would sometimes talk about philosophy and narrate stories on religious themes. Sometimes they would sing bhajans. Often He would put His hand into the sand and bring out images, hot snacks and sweets which did not have even a single grain of sand on them, and a variety of other objects.

Once He was discussing the Bhagavad Gita with Dr. S. Bhagawantam, Ex-Scientific Adviser to the Government of India. He took some sand from the bank of the Chitravati river. The sand turned into a copy of the Bhagavad Gita.

Dr. Bhagawantam examined it later to find out the name of the printing press where it had been printed. There was no name since it came from the Divine Printing Press of the Lord Himself.

34. Om Sri Sai Shakti Pradaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who bestows strength.

Shakti - strength, Pradaaya - giver of, bestower.

Swami bestows strength and vitality on His devotees.

One of the students had a knee operation. Two weeks later, Swami saw him limping along with the help of crutches. Swami called him and asked him how he was feeling. The boy confided that he was too afraid to put his foot on the floor without support. Swami asked the boy to get up and He asked him to slowly place his foot on the floor. Swami held his hand and made him walk a couple of steps. Then He made him walk forward unaided. “See, you can do it Bangaroo!” He said tenderly.

He materialized a ring for him and said that he would walk normally from then on. Later that year, the boy successfully participated in the 1500 metres race. His face glowed as he said, “This I dedicate to my beloved Sai Maa.”

35. Om Sri Sai Sharanaagata Traanaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who saves the one who seeks refuge in Him.

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Sharanaagata - one who seeks refuge, Traana - saves.

God always protects those who surrender to Him with a sincere heart.

The American millionaire, Mr. John Sinclair, says that he was flying his own helicopter to a place where he had a business meeting. He had an A class Pilot’s licence. On the way, the engine of the helicopter failed.

He says, “I lost control of the craft. I knew my death was certain. I pulled out Swami’s photo from my pocket and looked at it. The next moment, I found Swami right there in the helicopter. He piloted it skillfully and landed it safely on the flank of a hill. He opened the side door, pulled me out carefully, pushed the helicopter away and disappeared!”

Baba has said, “I shall bear all your burdens. When you have boarded the train, why carry the box on your head? Leave everything to Me.”

36. Om Sri Sai Aanandaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is always Blissful.

Aananda - bliss.

Baba is always calm and serene. He is untouched by anxiety and grief as He is All knowing and All powerful.

He says, “Sai is ever full of joy. Anxiety, grief and unrest cannot approach Sai. I am Anandaswaroopa, My nature is Ananda, Ananda is My sign and My signature.”

Even as a child, little Sathya was always calm, When His parents bought different types of cloth for all the children of the family, and asked them to select the material of their choice to give for tailoring their clothes, Sathya would never ask for anything. He was content with whatever was left over after all the others had taken their pick.

37. Om Sri Sai Aananda daaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who confers bliss.

Ananda - Bliss, joy, daaya - giver

We get immense joy when we see Him, hear Him and witness His Leelas (wondrous miracles). Even hearing about them or reading about them confers unalloyed joy. A single glance from Baba is enough to fill our hearts with bliss.

In Prasanthi Nilayam, when one is waiting for Swami to come, one can see the faces all around, some unhappy, some careworn, some shining with devotion. The moment Baba appears, a miracle happens. As they gaze on Him in silent adoration, all traces of worry and sorrow vanish and only Pure Love and Joy shine on their faces.

He invites all to pour their grief, pain, and distress at His feet and take from Him the Ananda that He so happily grants.

38. Om Sri Aarta Traana Paraayanaaya Namah

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Salutations ta Lord Sai who saves those who call on Him to alleviate their distress.

Aarta – distress, Traana - rescues, saves, Paraayana - engaged in.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba responds immediately to those who call out to Him in distress.

Al Drucker was an aerospace engineer in the missile centre of the U.S. Department of Defence. Some years ago, Al Drucker and a friend boarded a small plane and went on a plane ride. Suddenly they were caught in a powerful storm. Al Drucker struggled to keep the plane steady against the violent storm, His friend lost consciousness. In desperation he began to shout for help into his radio transmitter. There was no response. The tiny aircraft was about to run out of fuel.

Finding himself in a desperate situation, he reached out to God. “Oh God”, he cried, “Save me. I am in your hands. Do with me as you please!”

At that crucial moment, suddenly the wireless sprang to life. A calm voice said, “Don't panic, I will bring you down safely. Follow the instructions that I give.”

Al Drucker followed the instructions being given by his unknown benefactor. Finally the voice said, “If you proceed straight in the same direction, you will see Reno aerodrome. Begin your descent. I will now take leave of you. Goodbye! Good Luck!”

Exactly twelve minutes later, he cleared the clouds and sighted the aerodrome and reached to safety. His friend recovered as they landed.

The Reno air traffic controller was amazed to see them. “How did you arrive at this late hour? Until a few minutes ago, the airport was in utter chaos. How did you reach here alive? It is unbelievable that you could land safely”.

He told them that a severe snow storm was gathering strength. So they should refuel their plane and head towards the Mexico border. They followed these instructions. After landing in Mexico they looked around for shelter. They found they were in Indira Devi's ashram where some people were doing Baba's Aarati. In a flash, Al Drucker felt there was some connection between this holy man and the voice which had guided him to safety.

Soon after, he travelled to Prasanthi Nilayam. When he saw Baba, he realized that it was Sri Sathya Sai Baba who had saved him through that terrible storm.

39. Om Sri Sai Anaatha Naathaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is the guardian of the destitute.

Anaatha - orphan, destitute, Naatha - Guardian.

Sai Baba is the Protector of the helpless.

A lady who was seriously ill brought her two sons to Swami and said, "Sai Mata, I am entrusting my sons to You." She then breathed her last. The boys were then brought up by Swami. One of the boys in a public speech addressed Swami as “My Mother Sai”, and said, “I lost a single mother but I have gained the love of a thousand mothers.”

Baba is the Naatha (guardian) of those in distress. He says that no one should be referred to as Anaatha (destitute) because all beings are His children and He is the Guardian of all.

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40. Om Sri Sai Asahaaya Sahaayaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is the helper of the helpless.

Asahaaya - helpless , Sahaaya - helper.

One is never alone. Baba is ever present with all. He says He is above us, below us, in front of us and behind us.

In war torn Bosnia, a Sai devotee had gone to distribute bread and biscuit packets to the refugees. She also gave them a photo of Swami and a packet of vibhuti each. While eating, the refugees were looking at Swami's photograph and telling each other, “This man (in the picture) has been giving us bread and biscuits every day. But today apparently He gave them to her and asked her to distribute them.”

The Omnipresent Swami had already been taking care of these refugees. He is always there to provide relief to those who need it, no matter how far away they may be.

41. Om Sri Sai Loka Baandhavaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is the kith and kin of the whole world.

Loka - world, Baandhava - relative and friend.

Once a devotee who had been called for an interview told Swami, “Swami I have been waiting for you for the last three weeks.” Swami replied affectionately, “My dear one, do you know for how many years I have been waiting for you?” The man was stunned at the thought that Swami had actually been waiting for him. He was overwhelmed and started weeping.

Swami says, “Whenever you come to Me, my dear children, you will find me awaiting your arrival. It does not matter when you will be able to come. Take your time. I will always be waiting for you.” The Loving Mother Sai awaits us all.

42. Om Sri Sai Loka Rakshaa Paraayanaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is always engaged in protecting the whole world.

Loka - world, Rakshaa - protection, Paraayana - engaged in.

Dr. Art-Ong Jumsai of Bangkok describes how thieves broke into his Bangkok factory one night and Swami entered the guard room which had been bolted from inside and woke up the guard. He spoke to him in the Thai language, and alerted him to do his duty. The guard could not understand how this person had entered the room which had been bolted from inside. The same thing happened on the next day as well.

On the third day, Dr. Art Ong arrived and while telling him the story, the guard noticed Swami’s photograph in his room and told him it was this person who had entered the guard room and alerted him. Thus Swami saved His devotee's factory.

There are innumerable examples where Swami has saved the lives and property of the people who sincerely call upon God.

Kumar stayed in Coorg, in a dilapidated building. One stormy night, heavy rains lashed the town. Kumar lit an agarbati in front of Swami's picture, sang a few bhajans and then fell asleep. Suddenly he heard a

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voice telling him, “Kumar, run!” He immediately opened the door and ran out in the dark. As he reached the road, he heard a loud noise. He turned around to see that his building had collapsed. Next morning, he found amidst the ruins, only one undamaged item: the picture of Baba framed in glass!

43. Om Sri Sai Loka Naathaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is the Lord of the whole world.

Loka – world, Naatha - Lord of.

Once Swami showed some devotees His palm and asked them what was in it. Some one replied that there was nothing there. Then Swami said calmly, “This empty hand holds everything.”

He closed His hand and opened it a moment later. There was now a locust there and also a leaf which the locust was eating. He again closed His fist and when He opened it there was nothing.

Through this incident, Swami revealed that Creation, Sustenance and Dissolution are all in His control.

44. Om Sri Sai Deena Jana Poshanaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who nourishes and sustains the poor and the destitute.

Dheena - poor, miserable, Jana – people, Poshana – nourish, sustain.

Even as a child, Sathya’s heart would melt at human suffering. Whenever a beggar appeared at the door, Sathya would stop His play and rush in, to cajole His mother and sisters to give the beggar some food. He would even give him His own portion of the food and then stay away from His meal Himself. He said, “I only gave the beggar My share. When his hunger was appeased, Mine was satisfied too."

He used to give away His own clothes also to the poor and needy, although His own family was not very well off.

Today, under His guidance, the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation reaches out to the poor and needy. Narayana Seva is done regularly at Puttaparthi and all over the world. Free medical help and education is also given.

45. Om Sri Sai Moorti Traya Swaroopaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is the incarnation of the Holy Trinity: Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara.

Moorti - image, Traaya - three, Swaroopa – form

The three forms which represent Baba's reality are Brahma (Creator), Vishnu (Preserver) and Shiva (Destroyer).

Once a student took a photograph of Baba with his Polaroid camera. When it was developed, he was astounded to see that it was not Swami in the picture, but the form of Lord Dattatraya with three heads of Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Swami revealed that He is the Creator, Sustainer and Destroyer of the Universe.

46. Om Sri Sai Mukti Pradaaya Namah

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Salutations to Lord Sai, who confers liberation.

Mukti – Freeoom, liberation, Pradaaya – giver.

Mukti in the spiritual context refers to liberation from rebirth - the final goal of human life.

Swami says, “You ask Me for trash and tinsel, for little cures and gains. Very few desire to get from Me the thing I have come to give: liberation itself.”

Karanam Subamma was a blessed lady who succeeded in achieving the goal. She looked after Swami when He was a child. She cooked meals and served the devotees who came to see Swami. When she grew old, she asked Swami to fulfill her one desire - in her last moments, she wanted Swami to give her darshan and to put the holy water of the River Ganga into her mouth. Swami promised her He would do so. Sometime later she fell ill and passed away. Swami was in Tirupati at that time. Everyone thought Swami had forgotten His promise to her.

He arrived several hours later and called out to her, “Subamma, Subamma.” To the amazement of everyone around, Subamma opened her eyes. Swami gently touched her lips with His finger and the cool waters of the Holy Ganga flowed out of His fingers into her mouth. She drank the water. Her face shone with joy and she closed her eyes for the last time. She had joined the ranks of the released.

47. Om Sri Sai Kalusha Vidooraaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who removes our faults and blemishes.

Kalusha - weakness, fault, Vidoor – far from.

Swami removes the blemishes and faults of spiritual aspirants.

There are many changes in the life pattern of devotees who have come under the divine and benign influence of Bhagawan. They try and follow Baba’s teachings and become calmer, compassionate and understanding. This transformation is the continuing miracle which Bhagawan performs every moment.

48. Om Sri Sai Karunaa Karaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is compassionate.

Karunaa – kindness, mercy, Kara - one who does.

Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba was once travelling by car from Bangalore to Puttaparthi. One of His students was driving the car. The ground was stony and rough, the terrain was hilly. The student driver saw a cobra crossing the path, but did not brake as he thought it would disturb Swami, who appeared to be sleeping. He continued to move forward and in so doing he ran over the cobra.

After arriving at Prasanthi Nilayam, the student alighted from the driver's seat and ran and opened the rear door for Swami. Swami got down and proceeded towards the verandah of His residence. The student was intrigued to find a wide smear of mud, like a broad strip, on the back of Swami’s robe. He said, “Swami your garments are soiled at the back.” Swami replied, “A little while ago, I had to go below the car's tyre in order to save the poor cobra!”

Swami's love and compassion encompasses not only human beings, but all living creatures.

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49. Om Sri Sai Sarva Aadhaaraaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai, who is the support of all.

Sarva - All, Aadhaara – support

He is the provider and protector of all.

In Kodai one day the boys were seated in the Hall waiting for Swami to join them for breakfast. Swami suddenly came out of the kitchen. He was holding a glass and spoon. He said, “One boy is sick. I have prepared this porridge and I am going to serve him in his room. I will join you later.”

He looks after our every need, big and small.

50. Om Sri Sai Sarva Hridaya Vaasine Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai, who resides in the heart of everyone.

Hridaya - heart, Vaasi - dweller.

Baba says, “I am the Inner Reality of all. Therefore when you love another, you love Me and when you hurt another, you hurt Me.”

Baba had installed an image of Shirdi Sai Baba in the new temple in Repalle village in Guntur district. He told the people there, “Having installed Sai in your village, install Him in your hearts, on the altar of Prema, for Sai is Premaswarupa. Sai is not a temple dweller. He dwells only in hearts.”

Swami says, “The entire kingdom, every square inch, belongs to the monarch who rules over it. But when he is inclined to recline, he does not sit on the first spot that he sees, does he? He selects a spot which is clean and free from thorns, which is level and soft. So too, although all hearts are His, (sarva hridaya vaasine), He manifests Himself only in those hearts which are pure.”

51. Om Sri Sai Punya Phala Pradaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai, who is the bestower of fruits of merit.

Punya - meritorious acts, Phala - fruits, Pradaaya - bestows.

Every action has its consequences. Our bad actions have painful consequences, but our good actions are rewarded by the Lord.

Swami Amritananda, disciple of the celebrated Saint Sri Ramana Maharshi, travelled from Arunachalam to Puttaparthi for Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai’s darshan. Swami granted him an interview. During conversation with the 85 year old Amritananda, Swami told him, “In your seventh year you performed Ganapati Homam continuously for forty-five days, reciting the sacred Ganapati Mantra, thousand times every day. The scriptures say that the fruit of this Sadhana is the darshan of Lord Maha Ganapati. It is only because of this that you have come in My Presence. You shall now receive the benefit of that Homam.”

Swami Amritananda was asked to look towards Swami and as he did so, he saw in the place of Bhagawan, Maha Ganapati’s glorious golden coloured form.

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52. Om Sri Sai Sarva Paapa Kshaya Karaaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who is the destroyer of all sins.

Sarva - all, Paapa- sins, Kshaya- destroy.

Swami has said that God's compassion can alleviate the effect of our karmas.

He says, "Repentance and the resolution to desist from it in the future, with prayers to the Lord to endow the needed strength of mind, will help the process of cleansing.”

In the early days in Puttaparthi, a woman who wanted to harm Baba offered Him poisoned vadas (fried snack). Baba ate them with apparent relish, even though He knew they were poisoned. Later the woman followed Him to see the effects of the poison. She saw Him vomit out the whole vadas as they had been served to Him. On seeing this, the woman realized His Divinity. She fell at His feet and begged for forgiveness. The compassionate Swami forgave her.

53. Om Sri Sai Sarva Roga Nivaarine Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who removes all the diseases.

Sarva - all, Roga - diseases, illnesses, Nivaar- removes.

An advocate whose throat was afflicted with cancer was advised by doctors to undergo surgery along with radiation and chemotherapy. He came to Prasanthi to obtain Swami's permission before commencement of the treatment.

When he arrived, Bhagawan invited him into the interview room. After the interview, Baba materialized and poured a large quantity of Vibhuti into his hands and affectionately told him to finish it. After the interview, he went into the canteen for a cup of coffee. He saw some pakoras (fried savoury) and ordered a plateful. To his surprise, he managed to eat it without experiencing any problem. He felt inside his mouth at the cancer affected spot and felt no pain. He realized that he had been cured by Swami's grace.

Later he became the translator of the magazine Sanathana Sarathi into the Sindhi language.

There is no disease that Baba cannot cure.

54. Om Sri Sai Sarva Baadha Haraaya Namah

Salutations to Lord Sai who takes away all the suffering.

Baadha - suffering, hara - to remove.

Ruth had health problems and sometimes had bouts of extreme pain. She used to attend Sai bhajans in the U.S.A. One evening she suffered a terrible bout of pain. In her agony, she shouted, “Is there someone to help me? Why am I suffering like this? What shall I do? Please help!” Suddenly she felt a gentle touch on her arm. She turned and saw Baba beside her bed. “Don't shout so,” He said. “I am always here.” Then He disappeared as suddenly as He had appeared. The pain had disappeared too.

Swami says, “There is only one God and He is Omnipresent. Call - He answers, He manifests, He blesses.”

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[Source: Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Part II – Sri Sathya Sai Books & Publications Trust, Maharashtra]