Republic Day

Takeoff to Bollywood! A Dance Crew surprises passengers after boarding of a Finnair flight to Delhi to celebrate India’s Republic Day on January 26th 2012

Takeoff to Bollywood! Finnair Dance Crew surprises passengers

Wishes from our Bollywood friends:

Amitabh Bachchan:
Happy Republic Day! May God Bless our land with greater resilience, peace and prosperity! And may we all respect it!!

Madhuri Dixit:
Happy Republic Day!

Farhan Akhtar:
Wish all Indian tweeples a Happy Republic Day! Jai Hind.

Vivek Oberoi:
Happy Republic Day guys! Not just today but every day let’s remember our rights, respect our country & its people and be proud 2b INDIAN!

Arjun Rampal:
GM, Happy Republic day. I off to work while everyone else enjoy your day off. Looks like a perfect day for filming. Will post some pics

Bipasha Basu:
Ths Republic day,I want my country 2 b “saare jahaan se achchaa”in true sense!Wish 4 a peaceful,healthy,literate Nation.Happy Republic Day!

Aftab Shivdasani:
Happy republic to our beautiful country and its ppl.. jai hind..

Lara Dutta:
Wishing all Indian twitter friends a very Happy Republic Day! Don’t forget to watch the march past!:-)

Anupam Kher:
Happy Republic Day to All. Hope we keep the fire in us alive and burning for a better India.:)

R. Madhavan:
Happy republic day all. PROUD to Be an INDIAN..Sare Jaahan se Accha Hindusitan Hamara.

President Pratibha Patil’s address on the eve of Republic Day

President Pratibha Devisingh Patil, addressed the nation on the eve of the 63rd Republic Day and stressed on reforms, economy, democracy and women empowerment among other subjects. Following is the text of the President’s address on the occasion:

Dear Citizens,

On the eve of our 63rd Republic Day, I convey my warmest greetings to all of you across the country, from every walk of life and in different parts of the world. I convey my special greetings to the Armed Forces and the Para-Military Forces who guard our frontiers with great vigil and valour, in high mountainous terrains, deserts and the plains, on the coasts and the seas. I also convey my best wishes to our internal security forces and to our civil services. I compliment all citizens for their contribution to the process of nation-building.

We are living in a world that is complex and challenging. Forces of globalization have created an interlinked and interdependent world. No country exists in isolation; it is continuously being influenced by external developments. All nations, developed and developing, are facing the impact of global economic instability, as well as problems of unemployment and inflation, in varying degrees. Indeed, the 21st Century has brought in its trail a host of issues at a breath-taking pace. There are growing aspirations of the people, coupled with their expectations of immediate solutions. We are observing, an information explosion and ever-newer technological inventions. These have altered lifestyles and there is also a growing quest for materialism. There are persistent questions about how growth and resources will be shared in a more equitable manner. There are worries about the direction in which the human community is heading in this age of globalization, knowledge and technology.

For us in India, the discourse is about how an ancient civilization and a young nation, will move ahead to take India to its destiny. Our vision and our goals are clear. We look at building our country, as one whose economy demonstrates a robustness to grow, so that we can become a developed nation. For us, however, economic prosperity alone is not enough. We look towards an India, where there is equity and justice. We look at democracy, rule of law and human values, as being essential for making our country strong. We want a scientific and technological outlook in our people. We also look towards India as a country which will continue to bring moral force on to the global stage. I believe that there is a unity behind this vision of India. But, yet, sometimes one gets distracted by discordant pulls and pressures. How should we proceed to build our nation and its people? I believe that the answer lies in our age old values; the ideals of our freedom movement; the principles of our Constitution, as also in our unity, a positive attitude and our aspiration to grow.

It is often said, but not fully realized, that we are very fortunate to have a rich legacy of values, traditions and teachings. The ageless spirit of India, the eternal voice of India, has been resonating through millennia. What are those intrinsic qualities which have seen India prosper through centuries and eras? What is the message that should light our path, as we chart our future course? Our civilizational ethos contains the lessons of duty and truth. It tells us to be humane in all our thoughts and deeds. It highlights the qualities of compassion, care and of respect for others. It teaches that human beings and nature must exist in harmony with each other. All issues should be viewed in the context of humanity as a whole. Concepts, like ‘Samanvaya’, ‘Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah’ ‘Vasudheva Kutumbakam’, are the very essence of Indian thought. This philosophy has given succeeding generations the inherent strength to grow, embracing in their fold a vast diversity of cultures, languages, religions and communities. So, when the question is asked, as to what ideals should be placed before the new generation, to take the country forward, should then there be any dithering or doubt in a country like India? As the inheritors of thousands of years of history and culture, we should follow the high ideals of our age-old civilization. More particularly, the youth should understand this, as they are the architects of the future as well. Our past becomes the essential guide for the future as well. In this context, I recall the lines of Gurudev Tagore, “Every great people holds its history so valuable because… it contains not mere memories, but hope, and therefore the image of the future.” The past of India has been glorious and so must be its future.

We can also draw inspiration from our independence movement. It was a unique struggle, as it involved non-violent methods and required extraordinary mass discipline, steadfastness and patience. We followed this course, under the leadership of Gandhiji, because we had faith in ourselves and in our strength. Surely, we can demonstrate the same discipline in nation building. But, how do we do this? It is, only when we resolve to make the goal of nation building more important, than anything else and, show strong belief in it. It is then that courage, confidence and determination, shall be our companions in this task, which has to be carefully piloted in a constitutionally acceptable order.

In fact, during various times of difficulties or when searching for an answer, the Constitution has provided us our moorings. It was framed by those who had participated in the freedom struggle, and had a deep understanding of the aspirations of the people, and of our culture. The Constitution has been and should be our compass, guiding us in nation-building. It is the charter of our democracy. It is the document guaranteeing individual freedoms to its citizens. It is the basis on which institutions of the State have been created and have derived their powers and functions. Our Constitution is a living and dynamic instrument, which has demonstrated its ability to be flexible enough to meet the demands of changing times, while retaining its basic features. Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar in his closing speech at the Constituent Assembly said, “The first thing in my judgment we must do is to hold fast to constitutional methods of achieving our social and economic objectives.” Unquote.

Dear Citizens,

There is tremendous work to be done to move forward on our social and economic agenda, if we are to achieve fast, inclusive and sustainable growth. Our foremost priority is the removal of poverty, hunger and malnutrition, disease and illiteracy. All social welfare programmes must be implemented efficiently. Agencies involved in the delivery of services should have a strong sense of duty and work in a transparent, corruption-free, time-bound and accountable manner.

We have a population which is predominantly young. With education and training, they can become skilled and, thus, capable of finding their livelihoods, starting their own businesses and thus, becoming productive assets. Reinforcing our health and education sectors is fundamental for developing our human resources. Primary education is now a fundamental right for children. There is a commitment to universalize secondary education. Expansion of school education will also require increase in the number of higher education institutions. This process has to be structured with great thoughtfulness, to ensure quality and excellence. Moreover, education must reach every section of our society, as must access to health reach all. We need to expand health services, particularly in rural areas. We need quality medical facilities for our population, which are affordable. In today’s era of ICT, technology can be very useful in our mission of health and education. In fact, science and technology is a critical input for the growth of the nation and for all sectors of the economy. Focus on research and development is an investment in our future. Our agriculture, industry and service sectors need to be working more efficiently, with greater scientific inputs and more inter-linkages with each other. Agriculture, however, is one sector whose integration with other sectors of the economy remains inadequate. We need to look at models of partnership, of farmers with industry and with R&D institutions in various activities, so that, not only does agricultural productivity increase, but farmers benefit as well. Special focus is necessary on dryland farming, given its enormous potential and, the fact that, a large proportion of farm labour and poor farmers are dependent on it. At the same time, it is very important to build our physical infrastructure – such as roads, ports and airports, to overcome constraints to rapid growth.

I strongly believe that women need to be drawn fully into the national mainstream. Empowerment of women will have a very big impact on creating social structures that are stable. The National Mission on Empowerment of Women set up in 2010, should help in the co-coordinated delivery of women-centric and women-related programmes. An important component of women’s development is their economic and social security. Social prejudices prevalent in our society which have led to gender discrimination need to be corrected. Social evils like female foeticide, child marriage and dowry must be eradicated. Status of women is an important indicator of progress in a society.

Dear Citizens,

India can take pride in its democratic record, but as in any functional democracy, it faces pressures and challenges. An important feature of a democracy is the constant expression of opinions. This process of incessant dialogue should flow in such a manner, that we are willing to listen to each other. Those who believe in democracy must try to see whether there is rationale in the others’ point of view. Gandhiji once said, “Evolution of democracy is not possible if we are not prepared to hear the other side. We shut the doors of reason when we refuse to listen.” The purpose of discussions and deliberations is to find solutions. Often, we are quick to find blame with others; but, yet are unable to give constructive responses. There seems to be a tendency to doubt almost everything. Do we not have faith in our own people’s strengths and in our institutions? Can we afford distrust amongst ourselves? Nations are built through great patience and sacrifices. Concord and not discord is the way forward for a country as large as India. All issues, therefore, must be resolved through dialogue and there can be no place for violence. Negativity and rejection cannot be the path for a vibrant country that is moving to seek its destiny. Our work, our values and our approach, must be based on the vast capability and capacity that India and its people have.

Our institutions may not be flawless, but they have coped with many challenges. Our Parliament has enacted path-breaking laws. Our Government has put together schemes for the progress and welfare of the people. Our judiciary has a reputable standing. Our media too has played an important role. With all institutions working together for the same national purpose it will create a stream of positive energy. Our effort to improve is an on-going process. While bringing about reforms and improving institutions, we have to be cautious that while shaking the tree to remove the bad fruit, we do not bring down the tree itself. There will be short term pressures, but in this process we must not lose sight of the long term goals, and must work together on our core national agenda. I do hope in the spirit of national interest, matters of national importance, are discussed and solutions are found between different stakeholders. This will strengthen the roots of our democracy and the foundations of our nation. We have a shared future, and we should not forget that it can be achieved if we demonstrate a sense of responsibility and a show of unity. I think India could set an example before the democratic world of progress and growth.

Dear Citizens,

India’s foreign policy is aimed at the promotion of an environment that is conducive to its socio-economic transformation. We seek to build bridges of cooperation and friendship with all countries of the world. We constructively engage with the international community to find responses to global challenges. The role and stature of India, has been growing and our nation has been scaling up in the ladder of the comity of nations. India seeks an architecture for global institutions that is more reflective of contemporary realities. We are also proud of the contributions of the Indian Diaspora, spread over many countries and across continents, to the economic, professional and political fields of the countries where they live.

Dear Citizens,

In conclusion, I would like to say that we must build a strong, prosperous nation, based upon a firm system of values. As we remove poverty, let us also enrich our thoughts. As we remove disease, let us all remove ill-will towards others. As our youth study more and acquire more knowledge, let them also learn to be more involved in activities for the progress of the nation, other than only self advancement. As we legislate, let us also understand that the most effective law is the conscience of citizens. As we advance in science and technology, let us realize and understand that it is more for human welfare. As we use the Earth’s resources, let us not forget to replenish and renew its vitality. On the eve of our Republic Day, let me once again convey my greetings, to all fellow citizens and end with the following lines which describe an India we should work for:

Bahein jahaan sadbhaav ki nadiyaan,

Uge jahaan naitikta ki faslein,

Sab mann ekta ki geet sunaaein,

Pag-pag desh ka vikaas badhaaein,

Milkar aisa desh banaaein.

(Together, let’s make a nation where, harmony prevails, where we sow the seeds of ethics, where everyone sings the song of unity and where every citizen takes a step towards the nation’s development)

JAI HIND!

Republic Day

Gujarati Samaj of Milwaukee Presents Navaratri & Garba Dandia

The Gujarati Samaj of Wisconsin/Ramzat Group of Milwaukee put on their third celebration of Navaratri which translated literally from the Gujarati language means “nine nights. ” The event ends on the 10th day called Dusherr. Live music was provided by Mayuri Patel of India, a well known singer who has come to the U.S. annually for this event. The rest of the musicians come from the Chicago area.

Read more about this event on can be found on Asian Wisconzine Online.

Yash Wadwa

News from Wisconsin Interest, Volume 20, No. 2, September, 2011

Here is one of life’s little mysteries: If you place two 4-year-olds in the middle of a block, they will, without prompting, immediately race each other to the corner. Michael Phelps never breaks records in the pool by himself. But line up five other swimmers next to him and Phelps smashes world times. And when two teenagers are idling at a red light, engines running and no cop in sight, it might be wise to get out of their way. We see the impact of competition every minute of every day, yet few of us realize that the greatest consequence of competition has been its impact on the American economy. Competition has electrified it and pushed it past every other nation on earth. It can be as mundane as watching service improve and prices fall at your local grocery when a competitor opens up across the street. And it reaches to the highest echelons of American business – from Ford to Gates.
Peter Boscha was born in a small rural town in Holland in 1932. When the Nazis occupied his country, his education stopped at sixth grade. But Boscha had a dream that he could do more than work on a farm for the rest of his life. And he instinctively understood that his dream would not be fulfilled if he stayed in postwar Holland. So he took a chance and came to the United States with his girlfriend in the mid-1950s.On the other side of the world and some years later, Yash Wadhwa had the same dream. Wadhwa was born in Delhi, India, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. Like Boscha, Wadhwa knew that his native country did not offer the opportunities he desired.

For more detailed news report please visit Wisconsin Policy Research Institute at http://wpri.org/WIInterest/Vol20No2/Kozak20.2.html.

Disclaimer: News taken from Wisconsin Interest, Volume 20, No. 2, September, 2011

Sri Krishna Janmastami 2001 at Hindu Temple of Wisconsin, Pewaukee

On Monday (Monday, August 22^nd, 2011), more than 550 community members celebrated Sri Krishna Janmastami at Hindu Temple of Wisconsin, Pewaukee. The Janmastami was celebrated over TWO days – first day (Sunday, Aug 21 2011) two puja’s were conducted where many devotees participated.  Hindu Temple organized the following programs on the second day (Monday, August 22^nd, 2011).

• Sri Krishna Puja by Sponsors – First Puja 6:30 pm – 7:00 pm
• Sri Krishna Puja by Sponsors – Second Puja 7:00 pm – 7:30 pm
• Cultural Program 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
• Dinner 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm
• Bhajans 9:30 pm – 11:00 pm
• Pravachan 11:00 pm – 11:30 pm
• Sri Krishna Janma Puja and Celebrations 11:30 pm – 12:15 am

The delicious dinner was sponsored by Rakesh Rehan of Cafe India, 601 S 1st St, Milwaukee. After the dinner, the program continued with the Bhajans, led by Sangeetacharya Banvari Ji Maharaj from Vrindavan India in which more than 100 devotees participated.

Following kids/adults entertained audience with various cultural programs (be sure to watch the photos and videos available at the bottom of this report).

The MCs of the evening are Paras Bansal and Sonali Srivastava. These teenagers showed a lot of courage by being MC’s in the HTW and took audience in a smooth ride all along. The credit goes to Anu Bansal who is instrumental in organizing this event including the encouragement for the teenagers. It is very important to bring them front and make them aware of our culture and encourage them to participate in Temple activities.

Photos and videos

Photos from the event

Videos from the event

Bhajans by Kumudji and Rekha ji and Yash ji

Suraksha Kodgi – Dance (Mukunda Mukunda from DASAVATHARAM movie)

Anu Bansal -Dancing (Ekli ghir lai Madhuban main).

Bharatnatyam (Thillana based on Krishna)

All other programs of the evening

'Sarigamala Sandhadi' by Telugu Association of Greater Milwaukee

Telugu Association of Greater Milwaukee, USA has organized a musical program ‘Sarigamala Sandhadi’ by Srikrishna and Geeta Madhuri at New Berlin West High school Auditorium on 5th August 2011. The 3 hours non-stop musical journey virtually takes the audiences into another world. The music and the performance of the artists were so nice that the audiences keep demanding for more and more songs from Sri Krishna and Geeta Madhuri. There was a small interval for light dinner arranged by Mayura Indian Restaurant. Besides, the Telugu Association of Greater Milwaukee’s Youth committee has also arranged a snack counter for fund raising to utilize it for some noble cause.

Click here to read the complete article about this event on http://www.bharatwaves.com

Please enjoy the pictures from this event.

Video .

The Prime Minister of India hoists the Indian flag on the ramparts of the historical site, Red Fort, Delhi, on August 15. This was telecasted live on the National Channel Doordarshan and many other News Channels all over India. Flag hoisting ceremonies and cultural programs take place in all the state capitals. In the cities around the country the national flag is hoisted by politicians in their constituencies. In various private organisations the flag hoisting is carried out by a senior official of that organisation. Schools and colleges around the country organize flag hoisting ceremonies and various cultural events within their premises, where younger children in costume represent their idols of the Independence era.

We hope voices of Indians like Anna Hazare will be heard and common civilians rights will be honored by the government to the true spirit of democracy. Indian being largest democrcay in the world should show to the world that we lead the way we say what we are.

If you would like to you can support Anna Hazare movement by being an fan of the Anna Hazare’s  facebook page.

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India’s 65th celebrations of Independence marked Prime Minister Manmohan Singh addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort in New Delhi, with corruption topping his focus on one side and social activist Anna Hazare embarking on fast unto death on the other.

But the prime minister could not skip the major issue before the nation, that is corruption and Anna Hazare’s agitation to end it, though he said it is sub judice.

Admitting the need to end corruption, Mr Singh said no government has a magic wand to do it overnight and stressed the need to tackle it from many fronts and also sought the help of all political parties to achieve it.

Though the prime minister did not refer to Hazare’s move to fast unto death in New Delhi to bring a Lokpal Bill that would be inclusive of the office of the Prime Minister, which the government is resisting. I am aware of the differences of opinion on some aspects of the bill. Those who don’t agree with this bill can put forward their views to Parliament, political parties and even the press. However, I also believe they should not resort to hunger strikes and fasts-unto-death, he said.

He also said judiciary should not be brought under the purview of Lokpal to ensure its independence from the executive. It is with this aim that we have introduced the Judicial Accountability Bill in Parliament. I am confident this bill will be passed soon, he reminded the detractors of the Bill in his 40-minute speech.

He has admitted that many funds meant for the welfare end up in the pockets of government officials.

Otherwise, the prime minister kept his speech confined to domestic issues. Hardly any reference has been made of the impending global economic crisis except a mention of its impact on the country’s high inflation. The Prime Minister said, our government fully understands its responsibility to control rise in prices.

On education front, the Prime Minister said the government will establish a new Education Commission to suggest improvements in education at all levels. He also said health will be given high priority in the 12th Five Year Plan. Malnutrition in women and children is a matter of concern for all of us, he said.

He reminded that the declining sex ratio requires a change in approach towards girls and women.

The event held in tight security at the 17th century architectural marvel Red Fort, did not miss the need for focus on security and terrorism which has kept the nation on tenterhooks for over three decades.

The Prime Minister said the nation should not lower guard against terrorism but admitted that it was a long battle to be fought jointly by the central government, state governments and the citizens.

On industry, he said, our entrepreneurs and business men should not feel constrained in their activities and urged the political parties to stay away from tactics that create suspicion or apprehension among those connected with industry, business and investment.

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Some of the patriotic songs can be viewed/listened in the following videos.

Some of the work by creative minds is presented here….copyrights remain with the creator (not WisIndians.com).

The day one of the Ananda Mela festival, organized by the Hindu Temple of Wisconsin (HTW), attracted approximately 1500 visitors (throughout the day) to the Hindu Temple of Wisconsin on Saturday Aug 06 2011. Ananda Mela, meaning “joyful festival,” was designed, “To build community amongst all people, not just only for kids or only for adults, to showcase the Indian culture, food and to share it with all members and show that it is all part of one big family,” said Mr. Venkat Kodali, Hindu Temple of Wisconsin president.. Hindu Temple of Wisconsin is organizing many more events this year than ever including Hindu Youth Camp, Sri Krishna Janmashtami, Dr. Kadri’s saxophone concert and many more.

Hindu Temple of Wisconsin had been organizing this annual festival from past few years. The festival is a gift to the community members where one gets to meet and greet friends, relatives, taste the 10+ varieties of authentic Indian food under one roof, sugar cane juice and corn on the cob are the extra bonus.

This time, for the first time, the Ananda mela is being celebrated on TWO days – Sat Aug 06 2011 and Sun Aug 07 2011. HTW and volunteers planned for the fun filled activities on both the days.

Foods, clothing, music, dance, and henna were among the many aspects of Indian culture available for the visitor to experience.

Please visit WisIndians extensive community events calendar now and in future as reference for all events, from religious events at Hindu Temple, Yoga, Concerts to Indian movies in Wisconsin theaters. WisIndians.com is dedicated to bring the best and latest information for the community members… in line with our slogan “Your Community News at Your Fingertips… Always“

The day 1 cultural programs started @ 5:30 PM which included the slokas by kids, songs by adults; beautifully produced Ram Leela and off course various dances by talented local groups and individuals.  The auditorium was filled with audiences to watch/listen to the dance/songs.

Want to receive up to date on the community news/event details…sign up for the newsletters at WisIndians.com.

We just need your name and email address. Why name…why not just email ID..you may ask? We want to personalize each email we send out…..you will get the email addressed to you name . We send out emails only when there are rich details to share including news, events, coupons, local money saving deals and more.

Big lines were seen in front of various food stalls and the sugarcane juice (sponsored by Little India Grocery), Pav Baji (Sponsored by Indian Grocery and Spices), Masala Dosa were the favorite as one can see a long line in front of these stalls.

Please enjoy the photos captured by WisIndians during this event.

YSR Congress Party Milwaukee Chapter inauguration

Press release by “YSR Congress Party Milwaukee Chapter”.

On Monday, 2nd May 2011, YSR Congress Party supporters and ardent YSR Fans from Milwaukee region gathered at the clubhouse in Brookfield, Wisconsin to launch “YSR Congress Party Milwaukee Chapter” under the leadership of Upendra Reddy Rachupally. Several prominent people from Milwaukee graced the occasion. One can see overflowing energy in the crowd gathered for this inaugural event. YSR Congress Party banners and flags were all over.

All the members observed a 1-minute silence to mourn the death of our beloved leader Dr. YS Rajashekhara Reddy. Then the Milwaukee Chapter was launched by the President Upendra Rachupally by cutting a cake and unveiling the chapter’s website http://ysrcongressmilwaukee.com followed by the flag hoisting ceremony. The YSR Congress Party supporters responded with resounding slogans “YSR Amar Rahe”, “Jai Jagan Jai YSR”, “YSR Congress Party Zindabad” etc in support of our beloved leader YSR and YSR Congress Party President, YS Jagan.

President Upendra Reddy Rachupally's Speech

President Upendra has pledged to work tirelessly for the success of YSR Congress Party in the coming by-elections and the future General Elections of Andhra Pradesh State. He said “I have been a fan of Dr. YS Rajasekhara Reddy since beginning and all his schemes, especially Arogyasri which offers free medical treatment to the poor. To carry forward all the popular schemes launched by Dr. YSR, YSR Congress Party needs the support of all YSR Fans. We are launching this YSR Congress Milwaukee Chapter to extend our full support to YSR Congress Party President YS Jagan and carry forward the party activities. We have launched this Milwaukee Chapter to provide a common platform for all the YSR Congress Party supporters in the Milwaukee region to carry forward the party initiatives jointly.”

The other speakers – which included Govardhan Katta, Bashid Bepar, Srinivas Cheeti, Rajesh Gajula, Pradeep Sadanapalli – remembered the golden regime of our beloved leader late Dr. YSR and expressed confidence in YS Jagan as the only leader who can carry forward the welfare schemes of YSR and as one who can envision his father’s vision. Everyone opined that the sudden demise of YSR, who had introduced many welfare schemes for the poor and dreamt of “Harithandrapradesh”, has created a big vaccum in the political arena of Andhra Pradesh and there is currently a visible need for a leader to take the state forward and people see YS Jagan as the young & dynamic leader who can fill that void.

YSR Congress Milwaukee Chapter NRI members reminded about the injustice being meted out to Andhra Pradesh and YSR family, and urged all the YSR supporters to provide a sounding victory to YSR Congress Party in the coming elections and teach a fitting lesson to the so-called Delhi Hi Command.

Several political leaders from Andhra Pradesh spoke on this occasion via telephone and applauded the Milwaukee Chapter for taking the initiative to join the fight for making YSR’s dream come true and to fight for all his welfare schemes. They wished the Milwaukee Chapter all the best.

President Upendra Rachupally has outlined the plans and activities of the Milwaukee Chapter that will be organized in the near future on behalf of NRI YSR Congress Party Milwaukee chapter. The event ended with meet-n-greet and grand dinner and Upendra thanked all the members for all their support in making this inaugural event a grand success.

Click here for the additional photos

Event’s main video will be published soon.

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba

Sathya Sai Baba — His Works

Sathya Sai Baba is a highly revered spiritual leader and world teacher, whose life and message are inspiring millions of people throughout the world to turn God-ward and to lead more purposeful and moral lives. His timeless and universal teachings, along with the manner in which he leads his own life, are attracting seekers of Truth from all the religions of the world. Yet, he is not seeking to start a new religion. Nor does he wish to direct followers to any particular religion. Rather, he urges us to continue to follow the religion of our choice and/or upbringing.

Sathya Sai Baba publicly declared his mission in 1940, at the age of 14. Since then, he has daily exhibited in practical and concrete terms the highest ideals of truth, right conduct, peace, love, and nonviolence. He has often stated, “My life is my message.” Each day, hundreds of pilgrims make their way to the tiny hamlet in southern India where Sathya Sai Baba’s ashram (spiritual headquarters) is located. They come not only from India but from virtually every country of the world. Over the years, followers have organized to foster the construction of a variety of buildings and facilities to house and otherwise accommodate the ever-increasing number of visitors. The name of Sathya Sai Baba’s ashram is Prasanthi Nilayam, which means “abode of the highest peace”.

Sathya Sai Baba interacts with all people on a heart-to-heart basis. There are no intermediaries between himself and those who yearn for knowledge and experience of God. Every day for more than 50 years, Sathya Sai Baba has walked among and talked with the spiritual pilgrims who gather around him in increasing numbers. He offers solace and inspiration to all sincere seekers of truth.

Education. Sathya Sai Baba places great importance on proper education for young people. Parents and community leaders are urged to concern themselves with the informal as well as the formal experiences to which their children and young adults are exposed.

He has established a model education system, which includes primary schools, secondary schools, and an accredited university with three campuses, offering undergraduate, Masters, and Ph.D. degrees. No fees are charged to students, and admission is open to all, regardless of race, religion, or economic condition.

In addition to emphasizing the pursuit of academic excellence, Sathya Sai Baba’s system of “integral education” is designed to foster self-discipline and pro-social conduct. Students are required to take courses on morality and spirituality and to devote several hours each week to some form of community service. Sathya Sai Baba says that “the end of education is character”.

Health care. Sathya Sai Baba has built an ultra-modern 300-bed hospital close to the university and ashram. Highly specialized operations, including open-heart operations and kidney transplants, are performed routinely. There is absolutely no charge to the patient for professional or hospital expenses. Motivated by the desire to serve humanity, doctors, nurses, and workers in the hospital render extraordinary, compassionate, and loving care to all patients.

Service to those in need. Recently, Sathya Sai Baba initiated a project to provide an adequate supply of pure water to 1.5 million inhabitants of the State of Andhra Pradesh (India) who were living in drought conditions. The Prime Minister of India traveled to Prasanthi Nilayam (Sathya Sai Baba’s main ashram) in order to inaugurate the project. Sathya Sai Baba demonstrates that it is the duty of society to ensure that all people have access to the basic requirements for the sustenance of human life.

Sathya Sai Baba has given his life, selflessly and magnanimously, to the service of mankind.

If there is righteousness in the heart, there will be beauty in the character.
If there is beauty in the character, there will be harmony in the home.
If there is harmony in the home, there will be order in the nation.
When there is order in the nation, there will be peace in the world.
Sathya Sai Baba