Today is the centenary birth anniversary of Sri Satya Sai Baba and people from all walks of life are remembering his goodwork and his influence in their lives.
Few celebrities also shared their experiences.
Vijay Devarakonda
I don’t like being alone. During festivals, I prefer following all traditions rather than just celebrating casually. No matter how difficult the situation is, I strongly believe it will pass. Whenever possible, I step forward to help others. All this came from studying in Puttaparthi and listening to Swami’s teachings.
Later, when I went to Puttaparthi, I witnessed the selfless service activities carried out by the Sai Trust without any discrimination. That strengthened my devotion and service mindset.
Rajinikanth
I sang two to three times before Swami. Once, after my performance, he called me and gave me a locket with the ‘Om’ symbol. He blessed me saying my voice should resonate across the world. I was deeply moved watching doctors, IAS and IPS officers doing voluntary work—cleaning plates, wiping tables and sweeping—happily chanting ‘Sairam’. After my daughter passed away, that spirit of service inspired us to start the Sneha Nandana Charitable Trust to support underprivileged musicians with monthly pensions.
Sai Kumar
Baba’s teachings — ‘Help Ever, Hurt Never’ and ‘Love All, Serve All’ — guide my life. Having struggled for my education, I know how precious time is for a student. That’s why I support poor students and conduct motivational sessions for youth in Sai organisations. Any good we do returns to us manifold
Chitra
My grandparents and mother were devotees, and later we followed the same path. Baba himself named me. Meditation every morning, staying composed during hardships, and overcoming stress—these are all lessons I learnt from Swami.