May 10, 1960 to May 13, 1960

Baba’s visit to Madras, Rajamundry and Bombay

Baba left for Madras on April 27, 1960. After staying there for three days, on the 30^th, He proceeded to Venkatagiri and blessed the Raja on the occasion of his 60^th birthday. He left for Chebrole and Rajahmundry on 1^st May. Baba returned to Madras on 7th May after a three day stay at Rajamundry. On 10^th May, Baba left for Bombay by plane. Baba granted Darshan to hundreds of devotees on the 11^th and 12^th. Baba left for Bangalore on the 13^th, reached Prasanthi Nilayam the same evening. The Griha Pravesham (house warming) ceremony of the newly built “Shanti Nivas” was performed at Puttaparthi that evening in His Divine Presence.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1960

June 03, 1965 to June 14, 1965

Baba’s visit to Maharashtra

On 3^rd June, Baba reached Hyderabad. He gave Darshan to thousands of people on the 4^th. Despite of His tight schedule, He gave an hour long interview to five women of The American Peace Corps.

Baba left for Bombay on the 5^th and was welcomed at Sholapur by Sri P. K. Sawant. After a nights halt at Pune, He reached Bombay at 9.00 am on the 7th. Baba stayed at Sri Sawant‘s residence and gave Darshan to the devotees at all times of the day. The Maharashtra Branch of the Akhila BharataPrashanti Vidwan Maha Sabha was inaugurated at Shanmukhananda Auditorium on the 7th. Sri S. V. Page, the Chairman of the Legislative Council presided over the meeting. Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Sri Balasaheb Bharde, addressed the gathering. Thereafter, Baba delivered His Divine Discourse. Baba blessed the members of Prashanti Vidwan Maha Sabha with an exclusive Discourse at His residence. He addressed a mammoth gathering at Dadar under the auspices of Andhra Maha Sabha, Bombay, on the 8^th evening. Baba addressed the staff of Aarey Milk colony on the 9^th. The Cabinet Ministers, the various Religious Heads and other leading citizens of Bombay had the privilege of an exclusive meeting with Baba at His residence on the 10^th and 11^th. Baba Sai Saranananda, who had spent many years in Shirdi Sai‘s presence, spent some time with Baba at His residence. Baba left for Pandharpur on the 12^th. This was a unique occasion, for as a child, Baba had formed a Pandhari Bhajan group with the other children of the village and had composed several songs on the deity adorning the shrine at this little hamlet. While at the sanctum sanctorum of Rakhumai (Vitthala’s consort), Baba created an exquisite gemset Mangalsutra and placed it around the neck of the idol. The Trustees of the temple and the President of the Municipality had a meeting with Baba. Baba left for Bangalore via Belgaum and reached Brindavan on the 14^th evening.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1965

March 13, 1966 to March 26, 1966

Baba’s visit to Hyderabad and Bombay

Baba reached Hyderabad on the night of the 2^nd of March, 1966. The anniversary meeting of Prashanti Vidwan Maha Sabha (Hyderabad) was held in the Exhibition Grounds on 5^th, 6^th and 7th of March, 1966. The Law Minister and the Minister for Panchayat Raj, Government of Andhra Pradesh were present. The Chairman of the Law Commission presided over the meeting. Dr. B. Ramakrishna Rao, the President of the Maha Sabha welcomed all the guests. Baba visited the Heavy Electricals Factory at Ramachandrapuram on 12^th March and blessed the workers.

He then left for Bombay via Sholapur and Pune and reached Bombay on the 13^th. He stayed at the residence of Sri P. K. Sawant. Sri Y. B. Chavan, the Defence Minister of India, had discussions with Baba. Baba blessed thousands of devotees during Bhajan sessions at the Gwalior Palace grounds on the 14^th, 15^th and 18^th March. Baba addressed mammoth gatherings at the public meetings held at Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium on the 16^th, 17th, and 20^th. On the 16^th and 17th, Sri Bharde, Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly and Sri Page, Chairman of the Legislative Council of Bombay, presided over the function. Baba began staying at the Gwalior Palace from the 19^th. Baba gave Darshan at the Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium and addressed the gathering on 23^rd March, the auspicious Gudi Padwa Day (Maharashtrian New Year). Swamy presided over the ‘Bhoomi Puja’ at the site selected for ‘Dharmakshetra’ (the future residence of Baba in Bombay) on 24^th March. He addressed the volunteers on 25^th March.

Baba left Bombay and reached Pune on 26^th. He addressed the devotees at the Andhra Association on the 27th and left for Gulbarga via Sholapur in the early hours of 28^th March. Baba blessed the devotees with His Divine Darshan at the gardens of Ivanshahi Palace in Gulbarga on 28^th. He also taught them a few Bhajans. Baba blessed a group of medical students and spent a few minutes with them there. Babathen left for Hyderabad at 11.00 am and reached there in the evening. Baba inaugurated the monthly meeting of Prashanti Vidwan Maha Sabha (Hyderabad) on Sri Rama Navami (3^rdApril, 1965). He returned to Prasanthi Nilayam on 4^th April.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1966

March 16, 1967 to April, 04, 1967

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba reached Bombay by car on the 16^th of March. 60 students of the Sathya Sai Veda Shastra Pathashala accompanied Baba in an omni bus. En route, Baba showed the boys the temple of Virupaksha at Hampi, now famous amongst Sai devotees for its association with Baba‘s Leelas. The boys staged at three different public venues two musical plays written by Baba. Baba addressed a public meeting at Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium on the 23^rd and gave away prizes to the winners of the essay writing competition from selected colleges of Bombay. Baba gave a Discourse at Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium on the 24^th under the auspices of Prashanti Vidwan Maha Sabha. Baba stayed at the Modi Bunglow, Andheri during His stay in Bombay.

Many industrialists, government officers, and erstwhile rulers were blessed with exclusive Darshan of Baba on 25^th and 26^th. Baba flew to Jamnagar on 27th March and stayed at the Amar Vilas Palace guest house. Baba inaugurated the headquarters of the Sathya Sai Seva Samiti of Jamnagar. Baba proceeded to Bhavnagar via Rajkot on 27th morning. He gave Darshan to the assembled devotees at the Western Railway Auditorium. Baba stayed in the bungalow of Abdulla Noor Mohammad at Tarkeshwar. He gave Darshan to the multitudes from the roof of the bungalow. He walked among them at 5.00 pm and later addressed them. Baba laid the foundation of Sai Mandir, Bhavnagar city. Baba reached Bombay on the 29^th evening and addressed the volunteers at the Modi bungalow.

Baba proceeded to Navsari from Bombay on 30^th March. Navsari threatened to be crushed by a stampede due to the enthusiasm of the eager devotees. Baba left shortly so that the devotees may be spared the hardship. He proceeded to Baroda via Ubel and blessed the assembled devotees with Bhajan singing for 20 minutes. In Baroda, He stayed at the bungalow of Dr. C. G. Patel. The members of the Sathya Sai Samiti and study circles of Jambusar had the opportunity to have audience with Baba on the 31^st. On the way back to Bombay, at Navsari, Baba blessed some students of the Sericulture School at their hostel. He gave each one of them His photograph, Vibhuti and enough money for a new set of clothes.

Baba addressed a gathering at the M. E. S. College ground, Pune on 2^nd April. He granted interviews to many officers of the Armed Forces on 3^rd April. In His Discourse delivered at the Andhra Association premises in the evening, He disclosed “An institution will soon come up in Pune, where parents, teachers and student leaders will be trained, to guide children along the right path through the teachings of the fundamental principles of religion and morality.” Baba left Pune on 4^th April and reached Prasanthi Nilayam on the 7th after a short stay at Hyderabad. He addressed the devotees on 10^th April, Ugadi (Telugu New Year). Baba declared in His Discourse that His visit to Maharashtra and Saurashtra caused an unprecedented flow of spiritual delight.

– Sathyam Sivam Sundaram, Volume – 2, Chapter – 13; Sanathana Sarathi, 1967

November 02, 1967 to November 06, 1967

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba reached Hyderabad on 30^th October 1967. He blessed the devotees at Hyderabad with His Darshan and Discourse on Deepavali (31^st October and 1^st November). Baba explained the significance of Deepavali in His Discourse.

Baba left for Bombay on 2^nd November and reached there at midnight. Baba laid the foundation stone for Dharmakshetra, the Center for Sai Seva activities at Bombay on 3^rd November. He created a silver plate with the nine planetary signs carved on it to be placed in the foundation. He then hoisted the Prashanti Flag and unveiled the copper plaque announcing the inauguration of the construction of “Dharmakshetra”. Baba blessed the gathering with His Discourse and later blessed the devotees who were involved in the construction of Dharmakshetra. The function was presided over by Minister Sri P. K. Sawant. Both the Minister and Sri Indulal Shah, the President of Bombay Samiti, addressed the gathering prior to Baba‘s Discourse. That evening Baba inaugurated the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Dal, an Organisation of Sadhaks who render service to the weak, disabled and the distressed. Babaaddressed the members of the Seva Samiti on the 4^th. He met the members of the Prashanti Vidwan Maha Sabha, Maharashtra branch on the 5^th at the residence of Sri. P. K. Sawant. Baba blessed the devotees with His Darshan during Bhajan sessions at Dharmakshetra site from the 4^th to 6^th. Baba addressed a gathering of distinguished invitees on the 6^th. Baba gave yet another Discourse to the members of the Seva Samiti of Bombay on the 7th. Baba left for Pune that same evening and blessed the devotees there with His Divine Darshan.

Baba drove to Brindavan via Satara, Belgaum, Dharwar, Hubli, Harihar and Tumkur on the 8^th. He reached Brindavan on the 9^th and left for Venkatagiri and Madras on the 10^th. After blessing the devotees in these places, He returned to Prasanthi Nilayam on 14^th November.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1967

March 11, 1968 to March 14, 1968

Baba’s visit to Hyderabad and Bombay

Baba reached Hyderabad on 7th March, 1968 and granted Darshan to a large gathering at Vidya Nagar. Baba inaugurated the “Akhanda Bhajan” at the community hall in Vigyanapuri on the 9^th. He blessed the devotees with His Darshan again at the conclusion of the Bhajan on 10^th morning. Baba blessed the Bhajan session at Sriniket on 10^th evening and delivered a Discourse to the devotees.

Baba flew to Bombay on the 11^th March. He visited Dharmakshetra which was still under construction. He met the Seva Dal and also conferred with the members of the Reception Committee of the World Conference of Sathya Sai Sangams and Sadhaks.

He returned to Hyderabad on the 14^th, and gave Darshan to the devotees at Vidyanagar. He also visited the Punjagutta Officers colony and inaugurated the Bala Bhajan Mandali there. Baba inaugurated another Bhajan Mandali at Domalguda on the 15^th and delivered a Discourse. Sri P. V. Narasimha Rao, Minister of Andhara Pradesh Government, presided over the function. Prof. D. Venkatavadhani gave a speech. Babaaddressed a public meeting at the Homeopathic Medical College on the 16^th. Sri Thota Ramaswamy, Mininster for Panchayat Raj, Andhra Pradesh Government, presided over the function. Sri T. V. Raghavulu, Minister for Education, Andhra Pradesh Government, spoke at this function. Baba inaugurated the Bhajan Mandalis at Aliyabad and Vidyanagar Centers. Baba addressed a mammoth public meeting at the Mahaboob College grounds on the 17th. He also inaugurated the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Dal and addressed them on the same day. Baba laid the foundation stone for the Sathya Sai Nilayam at East Amberpet, Hyderabad on 18^th March. Sri V. K. Rao, the President of the Akhila Bharat Prashanti Vidwan Maha Sabha (Hyderabad branch), and Sri E. V. S. Desikachari, President of Sri Sathya Sai Organisations, Hyderabad, spoke on this occasion. Baba guided over 300 Seva Dals that evening on how to practice Dhyana. He stated that it is an essential Sadhana for all Sevaks. Baba addressed another public meeting on the 19^th at the Sathya Sai Nilayam site. Prof. D. Venkatavadhani spoke on Bhagawata Mahima. Baba left for Bangalore on the 20^th.

Sanathana Sarathi, 1968

May 12, 1968 to May 23, 1968

Inaguration of Dharmakshetra in Bombay

On the sacred Vaishakha Pournima day (Buddha Pournima), 12^th May, 1968, Baba inaugurated Dharmakshetra, the International Centre of His Mission at Bombay. Sri A. K. C. Natarajan played the Clarionet as Baba unfurled the Prashanti Flag. At the public meeting held that evening at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Campus, Sri Indulal Shah, Chairman of Bombay Samiti, Sri P. K. Sawant and Sri Page addressed the gathering. Baba then blessed the mammoth gathering with His Discourse.

Baba stayed at Satyadeep, His residence at Dharmakshetra, from the 12^th onwards. Baba blessed 65 students at a youth camp with His guidance on 13^th. Baba addressed the Lions Club members on the 14^th. Baba granted audience to the delegates from U. S. A., Mexico, U. K., Holland, Norway, France, Hong Kong and Australia for a whole week and held discussions with them at Dharmakshetra. Sri Morarji Desai, the Deputy Prime Minister of India, had an interview with Baba at Dharmakshetra.

Baba lit a perennial flame (Sathya Sai Jyoti) at Dharmakshetra on 18^th May in answer to the fervent prayer of Ms. Indra Devi of Mexico. About 30 special newspaper correspondents interviewed Baba at Dharmakshetra on 21^st May. On 22^nd, Baba addressed the Seva Dal members. Baba gave Darshan to the mammoth gathering at Dharmakshetra and sang Bhajans for them on the 23^rd.

Baba left for Gujarat by car on the 24^th. He visited Navsari and Surat on His way to Baroda where He spent a day. The Andhra Association of Pune welcomed Baba at their premises where He delivered a Discourse. On His way to Hyderabad, Baba halted at Sholapur and gave a Discourse. At Hyderabad too, His message acted as elixir to the wayward and vacillating. On 10^th June, Baba returned to Prasanthi Nilayam.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1968

May 16, 1968 to May 19, 1968

First World Conference of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations

The first World Conference of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations was held at the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Campus in Bombay from the 16^th to the 19^th of May, 1968.On 16^th morning,Sri Morarji Desai, Deputy Prime Minsiter of India, inaugurated the Conference at 9 am. After the invocatory recitation by Sri Kameswara Ganapathy, Sri P. K. Sawant welcomed the delegates, and Sri Indulal Shah gave an outline of the programme. Babathen called upon some delegates to summarise the activities of the Organisations in their respective states. Justice V. Balakrishan Eradi from Kerala, Sri R. P. V. Rayaningar from Madras, Dr. Choodasma from Jamnagar, Mrs. Khasalkar from Bihar, Sri D. P. Sukla from Uttar Pradesh, Sri Somdat Khera from West Bengal, Sri G. Ramarao from Orissa, Sri Murthy from Madhya Pradesh, and Dr. S. Bhagavantam from Delhi summarised the activities in their respective states. Chalrles Penn from Los Angeles, Howard Morphet from Australia, Dr. C. G. Patel from East Africa, Dr. Nallainathan from Ceylon, and Ms. Indra Devi from Mexico shared their experiences with the delegates. Baba then nominated a few members to head various Committees. A public meeting in connection with the Conference was held at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Campus at 6.00 pm. Baba thrilled the audience with His Discourse in Sanskri

On the 17^th, Prof. V. K. Gokak and Dr. Nagappa Alwa, the former Health Minister of Mysore State, addressed the delegates. Sri P. K. Sawant and Mrs. Osborne addressed the delegates prior to Baba‘s Discourse. Baba then delivered His Message. Baba met the delegates on the 18^th and interacted with them. On the 18^th morning Sri Indulal Shah, Sri Rayaningar and Dr. S. Bhagavantam addressed the delegates and Baba then delivered His Discourse. Sri Nanubhai Sastry of Navsari offered a Sanskrit epic on Baba‘s life at the Lotus Feet. Sri Indulal Shah, Sri P. K. Sawant, Prof. V. K. Gokak and Sri Bharde addressed the delegates during the Benedictory Function held on the 19^th. Thereafter Baba blessed the delegates with His Valedictory Message.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1968

July 15, 1968

Baba’s first and only physical visit outside India to Africa

On the 30^th June, 1968 Baba embarked on His first ever physical visit beyond the confines of Indian soil. The African continent was the only other place besides India, blessed to host Baba for a short while. The entourage reached Nairobi at 2.24 pm local time. Baba was welcomed by a huge gathering of fervent devotees singing the glories of His Divine Name. They showered flowers and waved lights as they sang melodiously. “I was reminded of the days when Jayadeva and Gouranga sang the glories (of the Divine),” commented a mightily pleased Baba.

Baba drove through Nakura and Malaba on the Uganda border to reach Kampala at 1.30 am. The late hour would have ensured no attendance in other cases. This was not to be so in this case. The roads milled with people eagerly awaiting Baba into the wee hours of the morning. Baba too walked amongst them and showerd His Grace upon the simple folk that had gathered there unmindful of the hardship. Baba‘s presence at Kampala was a blessing to a number of dignitaries who grabbed the opportunity to have His coveted Darshan. The Indian High commissioner, Sri K. P. R. Singh; the Chief of the Ugandan Army, General Idi Amin; the Minister of Defence, Mr. Onama; the Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Mr. Ogira were some of the dignitaries blessed with Darshan.

Baba‘s first public address was at Kampala on the 7th of July. “Here in Kamplala I shall pinpoint the basic requisite for a good and contended life. Love is power, love is bliss, love is light, love is God. Live in Love,” Baba said. These Discourses bound Baba closer to the hearts of the Africans. They began to see in Baba a friend, a guide, a leader and a light. News began to spread that Baba was scheduled to leave for India on the 10^th. The devotees prayed in all earnestness, “Father, do not leave us this soon.” Their prayer was answered. Baba decided to stay longer even though He had promised Bombay that He would spend Guru Pournima (the 10^th of July, 1968) with them.

Baba showered His Grace upon not just the human kind, but also the wild beast that roamed about the African terrain. Baba pointed out to His entourage, “Man is highlighting the advantages of competition and struggle, but the beasts are teaching him cooperation and service as the ideal means for survival.” He told a gathering of Africans and Indians that man alone among the animals had strayed from his allotted task. The rest stuck to their Dharma, whatever the obstacles. The tiger will never stoop to eating grass; the elephant can never be tempted to have a meal of fish or flesh; but man, the crown of creation, is groveling in the mire of bestiality, and is proud of it. The people of Africa bid farewell to Baba with hearts laden with sorrow. There was not a dry cheek amongst those who bid Him farewell. Even the cops who were in charge of road disciplining couldn’t hold back tears. Baba patted their backs, but their pain was only deepened by His touch.

Baba arrived at Bombay to the crescendo of “Jais” sounded by jubilant devotees on the 15^th. Baba addressed a mammoth gathering at Dharmakshetra that evening. Sri K. M. Munshi, Founder of Bhratiya Vidya Bhavan group of Institutions, who presided over the meeting said with tears of joy streaming down his eyes, “I was pained to see around me the quick decline of faith in God. However, as I look upon Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba and witness the transformation He is effecting in the hearts of millions, I am heartened and happy.”

– Sathyam Sivam Sundaram, Volume – 3, Chapter – 2

May 08, 1969 to May 18, 1969

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba reached Bombay on the 8^th of May, 1969. The devotees were blessed with Darshan of Baba during the daily Bhajan sessions at Dharmakshetra. Baba inaugurated the Prayer Hall in Dharmakshetra on 12^th May, its anniversary. He addressed a public meeting that evening. Baba addressed the members of the Bhajana Mandali on the 13^th. The Bal Vikas students were given the privilege of putting up a show in front of Baba on the 14^th.

He proceeded to Ahmedabad on the 16^th along with the Chief Justice Sri P. N. Bhagavati. The Governor, the Chief Minister and other leading citizens of Gujarat had the opportunity of a private audience with Baba. Baba addressed a mammoth gathering in the Police Stadium. Baba returned to Bombay and addressed the Bal Vikas students on the 16^th. He addressed the members of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Dal on 17th. Baba was present at one of the Prashanti Vidwan Maha Sabha sessions of the Bombay branch. He spoke to a large gathering of leading intellectuals at Dr. K. M. Munshi‘s house in Juhu. Baba left for Bangalore on the 18^th.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1969

May 12, 1970 to May 20, 1970

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba reached Bombay on 8^th May, 1970. Baba met groups of teachers, principals, Rotarians, Lions (members of the Lion‘s Club) and Sadhakas at Dharmakshetra on different days. Baba addressed a public meeting on the 12^th, the Anniversary of Dharmakshetra. The Pinge‘s Institute celebrated its Silver Jubilee at Rang Bhavan Auditorium on 13^th May in Baba‘s Presence. The cream of the society had gathered at the auditorium. Prof. V. K. Gokak spoke to the gathering. Baba then addressed the gathering. Baba blessed the Bal Vikas students at Dharmakshetra on 14^th May and left for Jamnagar by a chartered plane. Baba was welcomed by the Rajmata of Nawanagar at Amar Vilas Palace, Jamnagar. Baba discoursed to a gathering of 10,000 people that evening.

Baba flew to Ahmadabad on May 15^th and addressed a mammoth gathering there. The Chief Justice, Governor, the Chief Minister of Gujarat state and other ministers were present during the occasion. Baba left for Dwaraka along with the Rajamata and His entourage on the same day. Baba alone could visit the temple at Dwaraka due to the unprecedented crowd. After a short visit to Mithapur, Baba led His party to Kuranga near the sea shore. Baba dug out of the sands a bright golden image of Lord Krishna playing the flute. He told the devotees that He had materialised the Lord for them since they could not have His Darshan at the temple earlier on that day. He reached Jamnagar at 9.00 pm.

Baba visited the Ayurvedic University on the 16^th and blessed the Sathya Sai Seva Dal training programme. Baba addressed the Rotarians in the Town Hall that evening. At 9.00 pm He took His party to the Balachchdi seashore near the Sainik School. He brought forth from the sands a silver Vinayaka idol for Prof. V. K. Gokak and a beautiful silver idol of Annapurna for the Principal of the Sainik School.

Baba ‘recharged’ the Somnath Shrine on the 17th and also inaugurated the ‘Digvijaya Dwar’ acceding to the request of Rajmata to fulfil the wishes of her late husband Sri Digvijaya Singh. Baba flew to Bombay from the Keshod aerodrome.

Baba visited Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan on the 18^th in order to bless Dr. K. M. Munshi. Baba left for Brindavan on the 20^th. Baba graced the inaugural function of the Bharat Engineering Workshop on the 25^th. He gave a Discourse at the function.

– Sathyam Sivam Sundaram, Volume – 3, Chapter – 8; Sanathana Sarathi, 1970

December 21, 1970 to January 09, 1971

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba reached Bombay on 21^st December after His epoch making stay at Goa. Baba blessed thousands of devotees with Darshan at Dharmakshetra between the 21^st of December and the 9^th of January. On 25^th December, Baba blessed the devotees with His Christmas message. Baba inaugurated the Community Centre of the Kamani Enterprises on New Year‘s Day, and addressed a mammoth gathering at Kurla a suburb of Bombay. Baba gave a Discourse at Dharmakshetra on Vaikuntha Ekadashi, the 7th of January. Prof. V. K. Gokak, Dr. John Hislop and Sri Page spoke on these two occasions.

Baba flew to Pune on 4^th January to inaugurate the Mahila Vibhag of Pune. He also addressed a huge gathering of devotees there. Baba blessed the Dharmakshetra school children and the Bal Vikas students who presented various cultural programs at Dharmakshetra. He gave Discourses at Dharmakshetra to the various groups of Rotarians, artists, intellectuals, Seva Dal members, volunteers and Bal Vikas teachers on different days. During Baba‘s stay at Bombay, a unique book was dedicated to Him by the members of the All India Prashanti Vidwan Mahasabha, Maharashtra branch. Baba left Bombay on 9^th January.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1971

December 21, 1970 to January 09, 1971

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba reached Bombay on 21^st December after His epoch making stay at Goa. Baba blessed thousands of devotees with Darshan at Dharmakshetra between the 21^st of December and the 9^th of January. On 25^th December, Baba blessed the devotees with His Christmas message. Baba inaugurated the Community Centre of the Kamani Enterprises on New Year‘s Day, and addressed a mammoth gathering at Kurla a suburb of Bombay. Baba gave a Discourse at Dharmakshetra on Vaikuntha Ekadashi, the 7th of January. Prof. V. K. Gokak, Dr. John Hislop and Sri Page spoke on these two occasions.

Baba flew to Pune on 4^th January to inaugurate the Mahila Vibhag of Pune. He also addressed a huge gathering of devotees there. Baba blessed the Dharmakshetra school children and the Bal Vikas students who presented various cultural programmes at Dharmakshetra. He gave Discourses at Dharmakshetra to the various groups of Rotarians, artists, intellectuals, Seva Dal members, volunteers and Bal Vikas teachers on different days. During Baba‘s stay at Bombay, a unique book was dedicated to Him by the members of the All India Prashanti Vidwan Mahasabha, Maharashtra branch. Baba left Bombay on 9^th January.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1971

May 11, 1971 to May 14, 1971

Baba’s visit to Bombay

The First ‘All India Bal Vikas Teachers’ Conference was held at Dharmakshetra, Bombay, on the 11^th and 12^th of May, 1971. Baba blessed the devotees with His Message on the 12^th May, the 3^rd Anniversary of Dharmakshetra. The 3^rd State Conference of the Office Bearers of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation, Maharashtra, was held at Dharmakshetra on the 13^th May. Sri M. M. Pinge, the State President of Maharashtra, presented a brief report of the activities. In His Message, Baba elaborated on the objectives that the Organisation should place before itself.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1971

March 28, 1973 to April 4, 1973

Baba’s visit to Northern and Western India

Baba flew to Delhi on 14^th March, 1973, and proceeded to Amritsar the next morning. Baba inaugurated a charitable hospital built by Sri Jindal in Baba‘s name on 15^th. He reached Shimla on the 17th and blessed the devotees with His Discourses on the 17th and the 18^th. Baba along with His entourage visited Kufri and Phagu. Baba returned to Delhi on the 20^th.

Baba granted interviews to several dignitaries between the 20^th and the 26^th. The Vice President of India – Sri G. S. Pathak and his family members; Smt. Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit; Sri Jayaprakash Narayan; Sri Atal Bihari Vajpayee; Sri Guljarilal Nanda (Former Prime Minsiter of India); Sri Goenka; Chief Justice Sikri; Minister Sri L. N. Misra; Chief Secretary, Sri Chaturvedi; The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi; High Court Judges; Minister Sri T. A. Pai; Air Marshal O. P. Mehra and Sri Nakul Sen were among those blessed.

Baba gave Discourses at Talkotora Gardens. He witnessed a Bal Vikas programme at Sapru House Hall. Baba visited the Sathya Sai Kinder Garden Pre School run by Sri V. P. Gupta on the 25^th. Baba and His entourage proceeded to Jaipur by car on 26^th. Baba inaugurated the Kamani factory on 27th morning. He laid the foundation stone for the Sri Sathya Sai College planned by the late Sri Poonamchand Kamani in the afternoon and gave a Discourse. Baba also laid the foundation for the Sri Sathya Sai Prarthana Mandir in the 1973 evening. He witnessed a Bal Vikas Programme on 27th night.

Baba visited the Maharani Gayatri Devi School on 28^th morning. He was received by the School Principal and the Vice Chancellor of Jaipur University at the school premises.

Baba flew to Bombay on 28^th afternoon and gave Darshan to the devotees at Dharmakshetra. He then flew to Pune and after addressing a public meeting there, returned back to Bombay. Baba addressed 2,00,000 people at a public function in Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium on the 29^th. Baba addressed the Office-Bearers of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation, Maharashtra at Worli on 30^th morning. He witnessed a Bal Vikas programme in the afternoon at Chembur and addressed a public meeting at Gandhi Maidan, Chembur.

Baba flew to Rajkot by a chartered plane on 31^st morning. He addressed a public meeting in the evening and witnessed the cultural programme presented by the students of Rajkumar College at the college auditorium. Baba fulfilled the earnest desire of the Rajmata of Navanagar by inaugurating the Digvijaya Singh Wing of the Rajkumar College on 1^st April. Baba proceeded by car to Jamnagar that same afternoon. En route, He blessed the students and staff of the Sainik School. Baba inaugurated the Sri Bal Vikas building on 2^nd April morning. He spoke about the noble qualities of the Rajmata and commended her selfless Seva. After a reception by the Home Guards, Baba flew to Bombay from the Jam Nagar Military Airport. Baba reached Hyderabad in a chartered plane on 4^th April.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1973

July 19, 1973 to July 30, 1973

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba flew to Bombay at 10.00 am on 19^th July, 1973. He blessed the devotees gathered at Dharmakshetra. Baba inaugurated the Industrial Service Training School at Dharmakshetra at 4.00 pm that evening.

Baba gave a Discourse to the members of the Sri Sathya Sai study classes in the city on 20^th morning. He addressed the members of the Mahila Vibhag, Bombay that evening. Sri M. M. Pinge, State President of Maharashtra, spoke at the meeting. Late in the evening, the Bal Vikas students presented a few playlets before Baba. On 21^st morning, the Dharmakshetra School students presented a cultural programme in the Divine Presence. Baba blessed the members of the Seva Samiti of Bombay, that evening.

Baba blessed the Pre-Seva Dal students on the 22^nd. Sri Indulal Shah and Sri K. V. R. Rao presented the Pre-Seva Dal course details to Baba. Baba addressed a public meeting at Dharmakshetra that evening. On 23^rd evening, Baba addressed a public meeting at Bai Maganlal Auditorium Hall. Sri V. S. Page, President of the Legislative Council of Maharashtra, spoke at this meeting. Baba stressed on the ultimate aim of education in His Discourse.

Baba left for Pune by car on 24^th afternoon. En route, He blessed the inmates of the Protection Home for Women. He alighted at the Government Remand Home for delinquent children and rejoiced them by listening to their Bhajans. Baba spent a few minutes with the fisherfolk at Koliwada village. At Pune, Baba stayed at the bungalow of Sri F. P. Pocha. On 25^th morning, Baba inaugurated the Sri Sathya Sai Students Hostel at Pune which was to be utilised by students from different colleges. He spent two hours with the students talking to them in Hindi. He had lunch with them and blessed the Superintendent of the hostel, Sri Tare. Baba addressed a mammoth gathering that evening. Sri P. K. Sawant presided over the meeting. Sri Bhimsen Joshi gave a vocal recital at the meeting.

Baba returned to Bombay after a three day sojourn at Pune. He visited the Central School for the Deaf and the Central Institute of Teachers for the Deaf at Bombay on the 28^th. Baba asked the children, “What is My name?” ― “Sai Baba,” they replied. Baba was very happy and praised the teachers for their loving and dedicated work. Baba addressed a huge gathering at Dharmakshetra on the 29^th. Sri P. K. Sawant presided over this function. Baba left for Whitefield by car on 30^th July.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1973

March 01, 1974 to March 08, 1974

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba arrived at Dharmakshetra at about 6.30 pm on 1^st March, 1974 and blessed the devotees with His Darshan. Baba witnessed a Bal Vikas rally at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium on 3^rd March. Baba addressed a meeting of Principals and Teachers of schools at King George High School in Dadar that day. He also addressed the Bombay University Professors at Sathyadeep, Dharmakshetra, and delivered a public Discourse on the 3^rd evening. Baba inaugurated an exhibition of Agricultural implements at Dharmakshetra on 4^th March. That afternoon, He visited a school adopted by the local Seva Samiti for Seva activities in Khar, a suburb of Bombay. He gave Darshan at a public meeting in Khar on 4^th evening and sang a few Bhajans.

Baba inaugurated the new premises of the Sri Sathya Sai Industrial Training School at Dharmakshetra on 5^th morning. He blessed the Mahila Vibhag Members, the Primary and Secondary School children of Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Mandir, Dharmakshetra. He also blessed the children of the Central School for the Deaf and Dumb, who had come to Dharmakshetra for His Darshan. Baba addressed a team of doctors that afternoon, and commended their involvement in the service activities carried out at Dharmakshetra. Baba released the quarterly newsletter published by the Maharashtra state on 5^th evening. Thereafter, Baba distributed identity cards to the Seva Dal, and diaries to Managing Committee members.

Baba addressed the Seva Dal and Seva Samiti members on 6^th evening. He blessed the volunteers on 7th morning. He left for Belgaum by a chartered plane on 8^th March.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1974

May 11, 1974 to May 14, 1974

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba visited Bombay between the 11^th and the 14^th of May, 1974. Baba blessed the wedding of Sri M. M. Pinge’s son at Dharmakshetra on 11^th morning, and granted Darshan to the devotees. The Bal Vikas students presented cultural programmes at Dharmakshetra that evening. Baba blessed the devotees with His Discourse on 12^th May, the anniversary of Dharmakshetra.

Baba flew to Ratnagiri accompanied by Sri P. K. Sawant and Sri Page on 13^th May. At Ratnagiri, He blessed the devotees with His Discourse and sang a few Bhajans for them. Baba returned to Bombay that evening. Baba blessed the participants of a special Summer Camp held at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Campus, Bombay on 14^th May. Baba presented the book “Summer Showers 1973,”to all the participants of the Summer Camp. Baba left for Bangalore at 4.45 pm the same evening.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1974

January 05, 1975 to January 07, 1975

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba visited Bombay in the first week of January 1975. He laid the foundation stone for an Agricultural College on 5^th January, and gave a Discourse at Dharmakshetra. He addressed the Seva Samiti members on 6^th January. He witnessed a Bal Vikas rally at Dharmakshetra on 7th January. The Bal Vikas students gave speeches in the Divine presence.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1975

May 11, 1975 to May 15, 1975

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba along with the students of Sri Sathya Sai Arts and Science College, Brindavan Campus, reached Bombay on 11^th May, 1975. Baba unveiled a “Stupa” 40 feet high at Dharmakshetra on the same day and delivered His message. Sri Indulal Shah welcomed the gathering of devotees at Dharmakshetra. The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Sri S. B. Chavan, was present on this occasion. Prof. T. R. Kulkarni, Department of Applied Psychology, Bombay University, placed at the Lotus Feet the psychological evaluation report of the Bal Vikas students processed by the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Research, Bombay.

The 7th Anniversary of Dharmakshetra was celebrated on 12^th morning, and Baba gave a Discourse on this occasion. Sri M. M. Pinge, the Mayor of Bombay, presided over the evening function at Dharmakshetra. Sri P. K. Sawant, former Agriculture Minister of Maharashtra, and Sri V. S. Page addressed the gathering prior to Baba‘s Discourse. On this occasion Baba blessed two students of Dharmakhetra School with certificates of merit.

The students of Sri Sathya Sai Arts and Science College, Brindavan Campus, enacted a play entitled “Bhaja Govindam” at 10.00 am on 13^th May at Shanmukhananda Hall. The Bal Vikas and Pre-Seva Dal students also presented a cultural programme at the same venue. Baba inaugurated on 14^th, a book centre to cater to the foreigners visiting Dharmakshetra. He addressed the Seva Dal and distributed Prasadam.

During His stay in Bombay, Baba was occupied with the Members of Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust and State Presidents (18 of them) who came to seek His guidance regarding the Golden Jubilee celebrations (of the Avatar). Baba left for Bangalore at 5.30 am on the 15^th May.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1975

May 10, 1976 to May 14, 1976

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba reached Bombay on 10^th May, 1976. He was escorted from Santa Cruz Airport to Dharmakshetra by Sri S. B. Chavan, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra; his wife, and Sri P. K. Sawant, the President of Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee.

From 11^th May to 14^th May, Baba gave Darshan at Dharmakshetra during Nagar Sankirtan held in the early hours of the morning. A special meeting for the elite of the city was arranged at the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Auditorium on 11^th evening. The welcome Bhajan was sung by Sri Mohammed Rafi, the renowned playback singer, on this occasion. Sri N. A. Phalkiwala, the eminent jurist, gave a speech. Baba then addressed the gathering. Baba inaugurated an exhibition at Dharmakshetra on 12^th morning, depicting the Seva activities of the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations worldwide. The Information Booklet compiled by the Bombay Seva Dal was offered to Baba on this occasion. On the same evening, Baba blessed the inauguration of the service activities for the Seva Dal year 1976. (This year was dedicated to the advancement of the Seva Dal wing of the Sathya Sai Organisation). Dr. K. M. Mistry, Chairman of the Bombay Samiti, spoke to the gathering. Baba distributed First Aid kits to the Seva Dal members who had completed the training in first aid. After the address of Sri S. B. Chavan, Baba delivered His Discourse.

Buddha Pournima was celebrated at Dharmakshetra on 13^th May. Baba blessed the Bal Vikas and the Pre-Seva Dal students along with their parents at Dharmakshetra. Sri Indulal Shah addressed the gathering. Smt. Prabha Rao, Minister for Education, Maharashtra; Sri V. C. Shukla, Central Cabinet Minister; and Sri V. S. Page, Chairman of the Maharashtra Legislative Council, spoke on this occasion. Baba then delivered His Discourse. He blessed the students of the Sathya Sai Prathamic Secondary School and the Technical School of Dharmakshetra.

The Members of Shirdi Sansthan came to Dharmakshetra on the 13^th to request Baba to visit Shirdi. The Bal Vikas students presented a cultural programme at Dharmakshetra in the Divine Presence on 13^th night. Baba visited the residence of the Chief Minister Sri S. B. Chavan during His stay at Bombay. Many State Ministers had Darshan of Baba at Sri Chavan‘s residence. Baba left for Bangalore on 14^th early morning.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1976

December 10, 1976 to December 14, 1976

Baba’s Bombay visit

Baba flew to Bombay on 10^th December, 1976. He blessed the devotees assembled at Dharmakshetra with His Darshan at 11.00 am on the 10^th. On 12^th forenoon, Babavisited Ulhasnagar in Thane District. He visited the Central Jail at Thane and addressed the inmates. Baba addressed the Office Bearers of Sri Sathya Sai Organisation of Maharashtra state at Dharmakshetra that afternoon. A gathering of handicapped children offered their homage to Baba at Dharmakshetra on 13^th morning. He blessed them with many gifts. Baba distributed certificates to Mahila Seva Dal on completion of their training in Civil Defense Course at a public meeting at Dharmakshetra on 13^th evening. Sri Nani Palkhiwala, the renowned jurist, addressed the gathering prior to Baba‘s Discourse.

 On 14^th morning Baba watched the preview of the film “Shirdi Ke Sai Baba” (a film on the life of Shirdi Sai Baba) and the documentaries of the service activities of Sri Sathya Sai Organisations of Maharashtra state. Baba left Bombay on 14^th afternoon.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1977

December 30, 1977 to January 1, 1978

Baba’s visit to Kashmir

Baba visited Jammu and Kashmir between 3^rd and 14^th June, 1980. Baba flew to Delhi on 1^st June along with a group of alumni of the Sri Sathya Sai Colleges, and a few other blessed devotees like Baba Karunyananda. Baba gave Darshan to the devotees assembled at the Hyderabad Airport during the stopover. Baba stayed at the residence of Sri Sohanlal at Delhi and granted Darshan to the devotees there. Many dignitaries, Judges, Members of the diplomatic Groups, Ministers of the Central and State Governments, Members of the Parliament and Sri Sanjay Gandhi, grandson of the first Indian Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlala Nehru and son of the Prime Minister of India Smt. Indira Gandhi, came to offer their homage to Baba. He blessed them with His counsel.

Baba left for Jammu by plane on 3^rd June. En route, He blessed the devotees at Chandigarh Airport. Baba and His party reached Jammu at 9.30 am. Lieutenant General S. P. Malhotra, Area Commander-in-Chief, received Baba and His party and drove them in a motorcade to Udhampur, the Regional Centre of the Army. Baba addressed a mammoth gathering at the Army Gymkhana Club in Udhampur that evening.

Baba accompanied by General Malhotra proceeded by car with His party to Srinagar on the 4^th. He stayed at the General‘s Bunglow at Srinagar. He met the members of the Sathya Sai Samiti of Srinagar and gave them valuable guidance. Between the 5^th and the 14^th of June, Baba blessed thousands of devotees with His Darshan at Srinagar. He also visited the bordering villages and blessed the villagers.

The Chief Minister of the State, Sri Sheikh Abdullah, had an audience with Baba on 6^th June, and later brought his family for Baba’s Darshan. Baba blessed the Governor of the State, Sri L. K. Jha and his wife with an interview. He had a quiet stay in a little rest house in the midst of a lush green lawn at a nearby village Dachigam. There, on one evening, seated at the river bed, He materialised the replicas of the “Sphatika Lingam” of Amarnath and the Lakshmi Narayana idol of Badrinath. On another evening at Pahalgam, He materialised the replicas of the Holy ‘Sri Chakra’ and the ‘Lingas’ of the famous temples at Chidambaram and Kedarnath.

Baba addressed a mammoth gathering at Srinagar on the 8^th of June. He flew back to Delhi on the 14^th. He stayed in Delhi on the 15^th and the 16^th. He visited the houses of a few devotees in Delhi on 16^th. Baba left for Bombay by plane on the 17th. The members of the Seva Samiti and the organisers of the Third World Conference (scheduled to be held at Prasanthi Nilayam in November 1980) had meeting with Baba at Dharmakshetra. He laid the foundation stone for a hall at Dharmakshetra on the 18^th and subsequently left for Bangalore. He reached Baba at 1.00 pm the same day.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1980

December 30, 1977 to January 1, 1978

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba visited Bombay during the last week of December 1977. He gave a Discourse at the Junior College, Andhra Educational Society, on 30^th December. He blessed the devotees gathered at Dharmakshetra with His New Year message on 1^st January, 1978.

January 22, 1981 to January 24, 1981

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba visited Bombay on 22^nd January, 1981. He inaugurated the new school building at Dharmakshetra that day. Baba then proceeded to Raj Bhavan and was present there during Bhajans.

On 23^rd January, Baba inaugurated at Shanmukhananda Hall, the Training Institute that would train the teachers in Education in Human Values. The Governor of Maharashtra, Air Chief Marshall O. P. Mehra, Major Sri Babu Rao Shete, Smt. Madhuriben Shah, Vice Chancellor of SNDT University for Women, and Smt. Kusum Kamat, Education Officer of Municipal schools of Bombay, were present at the inaugural function. Baba delivered a Discourse to the vast gathering. He flew back to Madras on January 24^th and travelled to Bangalore by car on the 25^th.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1981

May 08, 1981 to May 12, 1981

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba visited Bombay between the 10^th and 12^th of May, 1981. A training camp for members of the Sri Sathya Sai Organisation was conducted at Dharmakshetra from 8^th May to 11^th May. Baba blessed the trainees and dined with them at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Campus on 10^th May. He addressed the Valedictory Function at Rang Bhavan on 11^th May. Sri Nani Palkhiwala, the renowned jurist addressed the trainees on this occasion.

On 12^th May, the anniversary of Dharmakshetra, Baba inaugurated an exhibition on ‘Health and Nutrition’, organised by the Consumer Guidance Society. He addressed a Public Meeting at Dharmakshetra in the evening. Sri O. P. Mehra, Governor of Maharashtra, presided over the function. Sri S. B. Chavan, Union Minister for Education, was present on this occasion. Baba blessed the handicapped and talked to almost everyone in the Prayer Hall of Dharmakshetra that evening. Baba met the State Presidents and Trust Members of the Organisation during His stay in Bombay. Baba later left for Hyderabad and Rajahmundry.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1981

January 26, 1982 to January 29, 1982

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba reached Bombay on Republic day morning, the 26^th of January, 1982. He addressed a mammoth gathering of 30,000 at Dharmakshetra that evening.

On 27th morning, Baba witnessed a rally of 2,000 Bal Vikas students and a pageant of 14 decorated floats each representing an aspect of Baba‘s teachings at Shivaji Park. The representative of Dalai Lama, Lama Bihari, knelt down and bowed thrice to Baba in traditional Tibetan style. He offered a scarf to Baba.

The Governor of Maharashtra arranged a musical evening on the 27^th at the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) at Marine Drive. Many a renowned singer of Bombay sang for Baba at this function. A symposium on “Practice of Values in Life” was held at Bhaidas Hall at Vile Parle. The well-known jurist, Mr. Nani Palkiwala, and the famous cricketer of yester years, Mr. Vijay Merchant participated in the symposium. Baba gave an inspiring Discourse at the symposium.

Baba performed the, ‘Shashtiabdhipurti’ (completion of sixty years of age) of Sri Indulal Shah, the Chairman of the World Council of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, at Dharmakshetra on 28^th morning. He paid a heart-warming tribute to ‘Indubhai and Sarlaben’. He materialised a ring and slipped it on Sri Indulal’s finger. He admired them for their spirit of selfless work and gave them garlands to exchange. Baba was accorded a reception at Malad by a local Samiti on 28^th evening. Baba left Bombay in the early morning of the 29^th.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1982

April 15, 1982

Baba’s visit to Bhopal and Jamnagar

Baba flew to Bhopal on 13^th April, 1982. He was received by the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Sri Arjun Singh, and thereafter visited the new building of the Sri Sathya Sai College for Women in Bhopal. Baba formally inaugurated “Shantivan,” His future residence in Bhopal, and hoisted the Prashanti Flag. This was followed by His Address at the Raindrops Bharati Hall in the presence of the Governor and Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. The Governor also addressed the gathering. Baba gave His invaluable counsel to the Members of the Trust, the State and District Presidents and the Members of the College Staff. He left for Jamnagar by a special aircraft.

At Jamnagar, Baba addressed a huge gathering at the high school campus in the evening at the request of the Rajmata of Nawanagar. Sri Panduranga Rao translated Baba‘s Telugu Address into Hindi. The children of the School presented a variety cultural programme. Baba left for Bangalore via Bombay on the 15^th.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1982

May 12, 1982 to May 14, 1982

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba reached Bombay visit on the morning of the 12^th of May, 1982 on a four day visit. Sri P. K. Sawant welcomed Baba to the 14^th Anniversary celebrations of Dharmakshetra and Baba gave a Discourse to the business community of Bombay, on the role of spirituality in economic progress. Baba inaugurated a Homoeopathic clinic as an extension to the existing medical facilities at Dharmakshetra, and met the parents of Dharmakshetra school children. He also released the first three volumes of the ‘Saints of India’ series and part of ‘Path Divine’, brought out by the Bal Vikas Wing.

Dr. V. R. Subramanian, Finance Minister of Maharashtra, presided over the meeting of industrialists at Patkar Hall. Sri Sanat Mehta, a Member of Dharmakshetra Trust, welcomed Baba. Prior to Baba‘s Address, Sri S. B. Chavan, Union Minister for Planning, addressed the gathering. Baba visited the Baba Atomic Research Centre (BARC) at Trombay by special invitation on the 14^th of May. Dr. Krishnamurthy showed Baba the different departments. Baba showed keen interest in the researches being carried out in the field of cancer treatment using radiation therapy. Commenting on the researches on food preservation, Baba observed that the new groundnut varieties developed at BARC could be useful for improving the cultivation of groundnuts in Rayalaseema. To the surprise of many senior scientists present there, Baba spoke to a lady scientist enquiring about her family, recalling them by name. He informed the scientists that He had performed the “Aksharabhyasam” of the lady scientist 24 years ago and was seeing her again for the first time after that ceremony. He advised the BARC scientists not to segregate themselves on linguistic or other considerations, but to work unitedly towards building our nation. Baba invited the scientists of BARC to hold their next Annual Conference at Prasanthi Nilayam and later visited Anushakti Nagar, the residential complex of the scientists, and blessed them with Darshan.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1982

January 22, 1983 and January 23, 1983

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba reached Bombay from Madras on 21^st January, 1983. Baba graced as the Guest of Honour, a Regional Conference of the Lion‘s Club held at the Cricket Club of India at Marine Drive on 22^nd January. He addressed the elite of Bombay and complimented the Lions on their good humanitarian work. He gave away awards to heads of many clubs for their commendable service.

Baba laid the foundation stone at Dharmakshetra for a Zonal Training Centre for Primary Teachers on 23^rd morning. He inaugurated an exhibition entitled “Science and Spirituality” at Dharmakshetra on 23^rd. This exhibition was organised by the students of Dharmakshetra School. He also inaugurated a day-long dental and eye camp in the main hall of Dharmakshetra. Baba addressed a public meeting at Dharmakshetra that evening. He distributed many awards to winners of various competitions held for college students of Bombay during the year. Baba released a book ‘Guidelines to Healthy Living — Health Education Door-to-Door’, compiled by Dr. Keki M. Mistry. Baba met the members of Sri Sathya Sai Study Circles. The well-known film star from Pakistan, Mr. Muhammad Ali, had Darshan of Baba at Dharmakshetra. He addressed the active workers of the Bombay Samiti. He blessed the group of men and women attending the adult education classes conducted by the Bombay Samiti in the slum areas. Baba gave away spectacles to eye patients.

– Sanathana Sarathi 1983

May 11, 1983 to May 13, 1983

Bhagavan’s visit to Bombay

Bhagavan flew from Brindavan to Bombay in the morning of 11^th May, 1983. Bhagavan inaugurated a symposium on “Science and Spirituality” at Shanmukhananda Hall that evening. Dr. A. K. Ganguly, the Former Director of the Chemical Group of Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC); and Prof. Rao of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), spoke on this occasion. Sri Nani Palkiwala‘s key note address was read out since he could not be present on this occasion. Bhagavan then delivered His Message. He mentioned that the real end of science should be action and not mere knowledge. He questioned when the benefits of science would reach the masses?

On the 12^th of May 1983, the 15^th Anniversary of Dharmakshetra, the Bal Vikas and students of the Dharmakshetra School presented cultural programmes at Dharmakshetra. A group of 200 students participated in the drawing competition held on the spot at Dharmakshetra. Bhagavan enjoyed witnessing both the groups of children. The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Sri Vasant Dada Patil, was the Chief Guest for the occasion; and the Union Minister for Planning, Sri S. B. Chavan, was present on the occasion. They both addressed the gathering.

Bhagavan released the Marathi version of Prof. V. K. Gokak‘s book ‘Advent of the Avatar’, that was translated by Sri M. S. Gandhi. Bhagavan also released the Marathi version of Sri V. S. Page’s book, ‘Dialogue with Divine’, which was translated by Sri D. L. Nene. Bhagavan awarded the Diplomas to the Bal Vikas students who passed out of the Pre-Seva Dal examination. Bhagavan then delivered His Discourse.

Bhagavan inaugurated on 13^th May, three charitable dispensaries, a bus shelter and a borewell, built in two villages of Vasai Taluk under the rural upliftment project by the Sai Organisations of Maharashtra. Bhagavan also visited other villages adopted by the Organisation to observe the progress made in the villages under the adoption scheme. Bhagavan blessed at Dharmakshetra on the 13^th evening, the Seva Dal who had gathered from 64 villages of Maharashtra.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1983

May 11, 1984 to May 14, 1984

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba visited Bombay between 11^th and 14^th May, 1984. The 16^th Anniversary of Dharmakshetra was celebrated at Dharmakshetra on 12^th May 1984. The function was presided over by the Chief Justice of India, Justice Y. V. Chandrachud. Prior to Baba‘s Discourse, the Chief Guest and Dr. Goldstein, Vice Chairman of Sri Sathya Sai Organisation of USA, addressed the gathering. Baba presented Village Utility Kits to Gram Sevaks from 100 Villages. He released a Directory of Blood Donors, compiled by Sri Sathya Sai Seva Samiti of Bombay.

Baba addressed the participants of a Symposium on the Spirit of Social Service. He told them that many organisations were engaged in welfare work, but if they could coordinate their efforts, they would be able to do a lot more good to the people than what was being done at present. He advised them to work in a spirit of cooperation and not competition. Sri Indulal Shah and Prof. Gokak also addressed the participants.

A compilation of lessons in History for Primary teachers under the Education in Human Values programme was presented by Baba to Smt. Kusum Kamath, Head of the Department of Education of the Bombay Municipal Corporation.

Baba met 400 rural workers from Maharashtra, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. The residents of the adopted slums of Bombay Samiti were overjoyed to have an exclusive Darshan of Baba. He gave gifts and prizes to the children. He met the members of the Industrial Study Circle and Adult Education Programme at Dharmakshetra. Baba, in a function held at Dharmakshetra, awarded trophies to winners of essay competitions organised by the Bombay Samiti, for the students from all the colleges of Bombay. The institutional heads received the trophies from Baba.

Baba inaugurated the new premises for the deaf at the Central School, Agripada. He also inaugurated the operation theatre at Dharmakshetra, in the Opthalmic Wing of the Medical Clinic. Baba addressed the members of the Indian Merchants Chamber on May 14^th at Brabourne Stadium. The President of the Chamber, Mr. Pranlal Bhogilal welcomed Baba. He pointed out to the members that wealth alone would not bring peace. Though people often complained of corruption in public life, Baba refused to blame the government for it. He placed the blame squarely on the shoulders of the business community. His adviced them, “Give morality a place in your hearts.”

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1984

January 26, 1985 to January 31, 1985

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba visited Bombay between 26^th and 31^st January, 1985. Baba inaugurated on the 26^th morning a new building, ‘Manava Abhyudaya Kshetra’ at Dharmakshetra that was to house the Institute of Education in Human Values and the Sri Sathya Sai Technical School. The students of Dharmakshetra School welcomed Baba. Dr. P. H. Malhotra, Director of the National Council for Educational Research and Training (NCERT), presided over the function. Dr. Madhuri Shah, Chairman, University Grants Commission, addressed the gathering. Mrs. Rayees Ali Mohmed Sayeed, Principal of Anjuman-I-Islam High School, Bombay; and Smt. Sarla Shah, Joint Convenor of Sri Sathya Sai Education Trust, spoke about Education in Human Values programme. Baba addressed a public meeting at Dharmashetra that evening on the occasion of Republic Day. He released the books ‘Science and Spirituality’, and ‘Study Circle for Industrial Workers’ at this function. Sri Ramakrishna Bajaj, President of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, and Dr. V. S. Venkatavardhan, Director of Nehru Planetarium, addressed the gathering. Baba presented awards to winners of the annual essay competitions held in the colleges of Bombay at a function held on the 27^thmorning at Dharmakshetra. The competition was organised by the Bombay Samiti. He addressed the Principals and the students of colleges on this occasion.

Baba witnessed a cultural programme jointly presented by the Bal Vikas students of Bombay and Madras at Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium on the 27th evening. Renowned musicians presented at the same venue, devotional songs entitled “Prashanti Naad” on 28^th evening. Baba paid a visit to the Agricultual University at Akola on 29^th. The Vice Chancellor of Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapath, Dr. Thakare, welcomed Baba and led Him to the convocation grounds of the University. Baba blessed the large gathering of the University staff and farmers who had come from nine Districts of the Vidarbha region. He presented village kits comprised of water filters, books for school libraries, first-aid kits and musical instruments to the representatives of 90 villages.

Baba addressed the elite of the Akola town. The Bal Vikas Gurus, the teachers of the human values pogramme, and the Bal Vikas students of Akola were privileged to have a meeting with Baba. Babaaddressed a mammoth gathering of 2,00,000 people at Vasant Desai Stadium in Akola.

On 30^th January, Baba blessed the members of the study circles of Bombay, with His Discourse at Dharmakshetra.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1985

January 25, 1986 to January 29, 1986

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Babareached Bombay from Madras on 25^th January, 1986. He was greeted at Santa Cruz Airport by 500 children belonging to the schools of Bombay where the Education in Human Values (EHV) programme was undertaken. All programmes were organised as a part of Baba’s 60^th Birthday celebrations during His stay in Bombay until the 29^th.

Baba addressed a symposium, “Integral Education for Human Excellence,” at Shanmukhananda Hall on 25^th January. The Governor of Maharashtra, Sri Kona Prabhakar Rao, the State Education Minister, Sri Rama Maghe and the Mayor of Bombay, Sri Chhagan Bhujbal, were present on this occasion. Baba gave an illuminating Discourse on the role of education in moulding the character of children and the need to impart value-orientation to the educational system right from the primary stage. He addressed another symposium held in the University Convocation Hall with Sri Nani Palkhivala as the Chief Guest.

During the Republic Day Celebrations at Dharmashetra on 26^th January, over a hundred educational and welfare organisations in the city felicitated Baba on the advent of His 60^th year. Sri Shivraj Patil, Union Minister for Science and Technology, was the Chief Guest. Sri Nana Chudasama presented a memento to Baba. Baba then blessed the gathering with His Message. 300 children from the primary and the secondary schools of Bombay had a special meeting with Baba and held discussions on ‘Human Values’ at Dharmashetra that day. Baba inaugurated a new scheme, ‘Adoption of slum children’ by the Sai Organisation of Bombay, at Dharmaskhetra. He also inaugurated a training prgramme at Dharmaskhetra, in which 100 trainees were trained to impart non-formal education to adult villagers. Baba presented uniforms and books to the slum children that day.

Baba inaugurated a new primary school building for the Adivasi children at Aksa village, adopted by the Sai Organisation, on 27th. He distributed saris to the women and uniforms to the school children. Baba addressed a gathering of industrial workers and management representatives of New Bombay, at Vashi that day. On 28^th, He addressed the active workers of Maharashtra at Dharmakshetra. He left for Madras by air on 29^th January.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1986

March 17, 1988 to March 20, 1988

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba visited Bombay between the 17th and 20^th of March, 1988. On March 17th He inaugurated an exhibition at Dharmakshetra, of an extensive collection of stamps on “Saints” issued in different parts of the world. On the holy occasion of Ugadi and Gudi Padva (Maharashtrian New Year) which fell on the 18^th of March 1988, Baba gave a Discourse at Dharmakshetra. Mr. Homi. J. H. Taleyarkhan, former Indian Ambassador to Libya and Italy, presided over the gathering. Baba witnessed a cultural programme of Bal Vikas students. He moved amongst them and blessed them. On 20^th, the students of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning presented a drama entitled, ‘Bhaja Govindam’ at Shanmukhananda Hall. Baba addressed a public meeting at Dharmakshetra that day.

During Baba’s stay at Bombay, special meetings were arranged at Dharmakshetra for the active workers of the Sai Organisation, farmers from the adopted villages, parents of Bal Vikas students, youth of AmritDharacourse and Bal Vikas Gurus. Baba returned to Brindavan on 21^st March.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1988

April 27, 1990 to April 29, 1990

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba visited Bombay between 27^th and 29^th April, 1990. On April 27^th, Baba spoke at length to the vast gathering at Dharmakshetra, on the prevailing deplorable situation in the country and said, “All the ills that Bharat is suffering from are due to lack of unity. It is only when you have ideal leaders, ideal parents and ideal teachers that the students will be inspired to act on right lines.” Again on 29^th April 1990, Baba gave a Discourse at Dharmakshetra about truth and right conduct.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1990

January 24, 1992 to January 29, 1992

Baba’s visit to Bombay

After a hiatus of two years, Bhagavan visited Bombay in January 1992. His stay lasted from the 24^th to the 29^th of January, 1992. Bhagavan was received at Dharmakshetra with Poorna Kumbham, band music and spectacular fireworks amidst Vedic chanting on 24^th morning. He inaugurated an exhibition, ‘Expansion of Love’, put together by the Bal Vikas students on the 24^th afternoon.

Dr. D. N. Bhagwati, renowned neurosurgeon, and Dr. Bhupendra Gandhi, a distinguished nephrologist had discussions with Bhagavan at Dharmakshetra regarding the essential requisites to commence the Departments of Neurology and Nephrology at the Super-Speciality Hospital at Prasanthi Nilayam.

Bhagavan blessed the dance ballet of the Bal Vikas students ‘Tamaso Ma Jyotir Gamaya’, at the Ravindra Natya Mandir at Prabhadevi on 25^th morning. Bhagavan addressed a public meeting at Dharmakshetra to commemorate the Silver Jubilee year celebrations of Dharmakshetra that evening. Sri Indulal Shah spoke briefly about the genesis and growth of Dharmakshetra. This occasion was availed to felicitate Prof. V. K. Gokak on his receiving the Jnana Peeth award for 1991. The Bal Vikas students were blessed to receive their certificates from Bhagavan, also, Principals of various colleges received trophies on behalf of their colleges that won the Inter-Collegiate Essay competition organised by the Sai Organisation.

Bhagavan hoisted the National Flag at Sathyadeep lawns and blessed the 700 students of Dharmakshetra School at the Republic Day function held on 26^th morning. Later that morning, the members of the study circle groups of Bombay were addressed by Bhagavan. The children from the adopted slums of Bombay Samiti were blessed by Bhagavan that afternoon. That evening, renowned musicians Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma, Ustad Allah Rakha, Sri Kartik Kumar, Sri Jagjit Singh and Pandit Feroz Dastur paid their homage to Bhagavan in the form of a concert that lasted for two hours.

Bhagavan witnessed a rally presented by 2,000 Bal Vikas students at Dharmakshetra on 27^th morning. He addressed a public meeting at the Cross Maidan that evening. The Governor of Maharashtra, Sri C. Subramanian, presided over the meeting. Dr. K. M. Mistry and Sri N. A. Palkhiwala addressed the gathering. Later that evening, Bhagavan addressed the various religious heads and a cross section of Bombay at the Raj Bhavan. He then dined with the Governor.

Bhagavan laid the foundation for the Dharmakshetra Sports Complex at Goregaon, a nearby suburb, on 28^th morning. He addressed the active workers of the Organisation at Dharmakshetra that afternoon. At Thane, Bhagavan addressed a huge gathering of devotees from Pune, Kolhapur, Sholapur, Ahmednagar, Nasik, Satara, Kalyan and Ambarnath on 28^th evening. He distributed to the villagers many household articles for their daily use. Bhagavan blessed the devotees at Dharmakshetra on 29^th morning and left Bombay.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1992

May 10, 1995 to May 15, 1995

Baba’s visit to Bombay

Baba paid a visit to Bombay between 10^th and 15^th May 1995, which also happened to be the Silver Jubilee year of Dharmakshetra. Baba arrived at Bombay by a chartered plane on the 10^th May. He was accompanied by a small party of members of the staff of the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, Brindavan Campus and a few select devotees. On 10^th evening, Baba addressed a public meeting at Dharmakshetra. After His Discourse, Dr. D. R. Mehta, former Deputy Governor of RBI spoke about the efficacy of ‘Jaipur Foot’, an artificial limb for the handicapped. There was also a demonstration of the same in the Divine Presence. Baba then distributed wheel chairs, sewing machines and Braille watches to the handicapped.

Baba inaugurated the new auditorium ‘Jnana Deep’ in the new school building at Dharmakshetra on 11^th May. He addressed the elite of Bombay at Shanti Deep the same day. Sri Indulal Shah; Justice Bhagwati, former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court; and Sri Nani Palkhiwala also addressed the gathering. Baba witnessed a cultural programme presented by the Bal Vikas students at the Nehru Centre and gave Darshan at Gandhi Maidan that evening.

At Dharmakshetra on 12^th May, He blessed the teachers, parents and children of the Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Mandir, Dharmakshetra, and the Trust members of Maharashtra. That evening, Baba blessed with a Discourse, the teachers from the schools where Sri Sathya Sai Education in Human Values programme was imparted. Later in the evening, Baba addressed a public meeting at Dharmakshetra convened in connection with the Silver Jubilee of Dharmakshetra. Dr. Keki Mistry, Member of Sri Sathya Sai Trust of Maharashtra; Sri. K. R. Rao, President of Sri Sathya Sai Organisation of Maharashtra; Dr. Suresh Dalal, former Vice-Chancellor of SNDT University, Bombay; spoke on this occasion. Baba later witnessed a display of fireworks and a delightful presentation of ‘Krishna Ras’ presented by the Bal Vikas students in the lawns of Sathyadeep.

On 13^th May, Baba witnessed a programme presented by 2,500 Bal Vikas students and later inaugurated the new Sathya Sai Mandir – ‘Sai Prem’ in the New Bombay township of Vashi where Reverend Father Orlando, Angel Charities, welcomed Baba. On 13^th evening, Baba blessed at Dharmakshetra, 500 college students from 94 colleges who were the participants of various competition organised by the Bombay Samiti, by delivering a Discourse.

On 14^th May in the morning, Baba addressed the members of the study circle groups at Dharmakshetra. Later in the morning, He addressed a public meeting convened by the Sheriff of Bombay, the famous cricketer, Sunil Gavaskar. The meeting was convened to felicitate Baba on entering the 70^th year of His Advent in November that year. A citation inscribed in a gold plated plaque was offered to Baba, spelling out the glory of the Avatar. Gavaskar also offered a cricket bat autographed by several international players from Australia, Africa and West Indies. Sri Nusli Davar, Chairman and Managing Director of Atash Industries India, and Justice P. N. Bhagwati, Trust Member spoke on this occasion. Sri Nana Chudasama, World Chairman, Giants International, offered felicitations to Baba. Sunil Gavaskar, Sheriff of Mumbai, also spoke on the glorious mission of Baba. Baba then delivered His Discourse. He left for Bangalore the same day.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1995

March 14, 1999 to March 17, 1999

Baba’s visit to Mumbai

Baba reached Mumbai from Delhi on 14^th afternoon. He blessed the devotees at Dharmakshetra with His Darshan and Discourse that afternoon. Baba granted Darshan at Dharmakshetra early in the morning during Nagar Sankirtan on 15^th, 16^th, and 17^th March. Baba addressed a public meeting in the football ground at Cooperage in South Mumbai on 15^th evening. His message was directly aimed at the elite of Mumbai. He severely admonished the rich society of Mumbai and declared that they alone are responsible for all the evils they were talking about. The press hailed Baba’s Discourse and said,“Sai Baba thundered”. Baba addressed the Bal Vikas parents and students from the slum areas and the active workers of the organisation at Dharmakshetra. Baba granted Darshan to the assembled devotees at Goregaon on 16^th evening. He visited Sri Umesh Salian’s house at Borivali that evening. Baba witnessed a dance programme at Dharmakshetra presented by the Bal Vikas students that night. Baba returned to Brindavan on 17^th afternoon.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 1999

June 01, 2001

Baba’s visit to Mumbai

Baba made a short visit to Mumbai on 1^st June 2001. He visited the residence of Sri Indulal Shah to bless the ailing Smt. Sarla Shah, and then proceeded to Dharmakshetra. Baba blessed the Bal Vikas students at Dharmakshetra in Shanti Deep Hall at 12.30 pm. He blessed the assembled devotees with His Darshan. Sri V. Srinivasan, All India President of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation, gave a short speech. Baba then delivered His Discourse which was translated into English by Sri Srinivasan. Baba returned to Brindavan that evening.

– Sanathana Sarathi, 2001

October 31, 2009 to November 2, 2009

The Last Physical Visit to Mumbai

Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba blessed the States of Maharashtra with His Divine physical presence, when He visited these states for six days from 28^th October to 2^nd November, 2009.

Bhagavan left Puttaparthi along with His entourage on the morning of 28^th October, 2009 from Sri Sathya Sai Airport to Pune by about 8.30 am. Bhagavan landed at the Pune airport at 9.40 am.  He was accorded a grand and hearty welcome at the Pune Airport by Sri Shivraj Patil, former Home Minister of India; Sri Ashok Chavan, Chief Minister of Maharashtra; Sri Ramesh Sawant, State President, Sri Sathya Sai Organisation of Maharashtra and Goa and many other dignitaries. The Bal Vikas children of Pune in their traditional dress offered their respectful greetings to Bhagavan.

Bhagavan was escorted by 11 motorbike riders and 5 cars from the airport to the residence of Sri Shivajirao Jadhav who organised this Divine visit. Bhagavan blessed the family members of Jadhav family and then proceeded to Sri Sathya Sai Panduranga Kshetra, a grand temple complex in Sylvan surroundings of Hadshi Village, near Pune. On arrival, Bhagavan was welcomed by the Tukaram Dindi (procession) by about 1200 villagers of Hadshi. Throughout the morning, Bhagavan blessed the thousands of devotees with His Divine Darshan. In the afternoon, Marathi Abhangs (devotional compositions) were sung by 25 villagers in the Divine Presence. The renowned singers Kavita Subramaniam, Nitin Mukesh and Sapna Kukherjee presented devotional songs. They were blessed and felicitated by Bhagavan after their performance.

On the morning of 29^th October 2009, Bhagavan ceremonially performed the Prana Pratishtha (energising with life principle) of the idols in the three temples that adorn this temple complex, namely Siddhi Vinayak, Shirdi Sai Baba and Vitthal Rukmini Temples. After this sacred ceremony, Bhagavan offered Poornahuti (final oblations) in the Yajna that was being conducted to mark this sacred event.

On the afternoon of 29^th October 2009, Bhagavan blessed the mammoth gathering of devotees with His Divine Discourse. Prior to Bhagavan’s Discourse, three speakers addressed the gathering. The first speaker Sri Shivajirao Jadhav expressed deep gratitude to Bhagavan for blessing Panduranga Kshetra with His Divine Presence and performing the Prana Pratishtha of the idols in three temples. The next speaker Sri V. Srinivasan, All India President, Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, exhorted the devotees to practice the teachings of Bhagavan in order to redeem their lives. The last speaker Sri Nishikant Borodekar, a faculty member of Sri Sathya Sai Mirpuri College of Music, Prasanthi Nilayam narrated his experiences of Bhagavan’s Divinity.

Bhagavan in His Discourse said, “What is the purpose of human birth? It is to experience the love of God. Only those who were recipients of God’s love can bring about transformation in the world. God always helps. Your thoughts are responsible for your happiness and sorrow. Sakkubai always chanted ‘Ranga, Ranga, Ranga’. But others made fun of her. Her mother-in-law and her husband subjected her to great ordeals. Ultimately, Lord Panduranga came to her help and she was able to reach Pandharpur. Many people criticised even Radha and Sakkubai who always chanted the name of God. Ultimately, Krishna taught them a lesson. Never criticise anyone. Everything happens by the will of God. What is it that you must know today? You should know your mistakes and rectify them. That is enough. What do the Vedic Mantras signify? They signify the oneness of the Atma. There is no great spiritual practice than to realise the oneness of the Atma. Many people try to describe the glory of Swami in many ways. But it is all their delusion; they do not know My Reality. What is My name? It is not Sathya Sai Baba, though the world knows Me by this name. People should get rid of this delusion to know My Reality. Today everybody is trying to realise the truth except the politicians. If only they realise the truth, the entire nation will prosper. Politics is the cause of all the conflicts that we see today everywhere. Whoever tells you something good, you should accept and follow. This is My Message. Peace is present only in love. If you develop love, you will have everything. Very happy!”

On the morning of 30^th October 2009, the village Bal Vikas children led the Bhajans during the Divine Darshan of Bhagavan. On the same evening, a group five-child artiste – Arya Ambedkar, Rohit Raut, Prathamesh Laghate, Mugha Vaishampayan and Karthiki Gaekwad – presented a devotional music programme in the Divine Presence. At the end of their presentation, Bhagavan showered His profuse blessings on the children and their family members.   

After showering His love and grace on the devotees at Sri Sathya Sai Panduranga Kshetra, Bhagavan along with His entourage left for Mumbai on the morning of 31^st October, 2009. His caravan of more than 40 cars was escorted and led by 11 motorbike riders and security cars. Bhagavan’s car arrived at Dharmakshetra at about 2.00 pm. He was offered a traditional welcome by the students of Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Mandir, Dharmakshetra with Poorna Kumbham amidst chanting Vedic Mantras. Sri Indulal Shah and other dignitaries welcomed Bhagavan offering roses to Him. Bhagavan blessed the devotees singing Bhajans. Then He entered His Abode. 

Bhagavan blessed a gathering of 50,000 devotees in the suburb Goregaon at 6.30 pm, on the evening of 31^st October, 2009. The renowned singer Sri Sonu Nigam offered at the Lotus Feet of Bhagavan a devotional music concert. At the end of the presentation, Bhagavan blessed the singer and materialised a diamond ring for him. Mangala Aarti was offered to Bhagavan at 7.10 pm. Thereafter, Bhagavan went to the residence of Sri Indulal Shah and returned back to Dharmakshetra at 9.30 pm.

On the morning of 1^st November 2009, Bhagavan blessed thousands of devotees with His Divine Darshan. Besides, Bhagavan blessed a group of bankers and industrialists. On this occasion, Sri Ashok Chavan, Chief Minister of Maharashtra prayed for Bhagavan’s blessings for his new administration and said he would follow the principles taught by Bhagavan in his administration. Sri K. V. Kamath, Chairman, ICICI Bank, also addressed the august gathering. He referred to the insights revealed at the conference held at Prasanthi Nilayam and praised the humanitarian projects of Bhagavan.

On the same day, later in the morning at 11.10 am, Bhagavan blessed a gathering of 25,000 devotees with His Divine Darshan at Worli, Gandhi Maidan in South Mumbai. Mangala Aarti was offered to Bhagavan at the conclusion of Bhajans at 11.45 am.

From Gandhi Maidan, Bhagavan proceeded to Malabar Hills to visit the official residence of Sri Ashok Chavan, Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Sri Chavan hosted a lunch in Bhagavan’s honour. The Chief Minister, his wife and two daughters offered a reverential welcome to Bhagavan at their residence. A select gathering of dignitaries were present during the lunch. 

On the evening of 1^st November 2009, Bhagavan blessed the huge gathering of devotees with His Divine Darshan at Brabourne Stadium at 5.00 pm. On this occasion, the students of Sri Sathya Sai University presented a programme of devotional music. As every song was saturated with love, devotion and true feelings, it elevated the minds and spirits of the listeners. 

On the morning of 2^nd November, Bhagavan granted His Divine Darshan to thousands of devotees assembled at Dharmakshetra during the Bhajan Session. Bhagavan also watched a short video documentary on the evolution of Dharmakshetra produced by former students of Sri Sathya Sai University. He gave His special blessings to the active workers of the Sai Organisation of Maharashtra and Goa in Shanti Deep.

On the afternoon of 2^nd November 2009, Bhagavan left Mumbai for Puttaparthi along with His entourage by a chartered plane from Mumbai airport at 3.35 pm. A huge gathering of devotees collected at the airport to have a last glimpse of Bhagavan when He departed. They offered their grateful thanks to Bhagavan for His visit to Pune and Mumbai that had left long lasting blissful memories in each and every heart. 

Thus concluded this historic visit of Bhagavan to Pune and Mumbai, kindling the light of spirituality and Divinity in the hearts of thousands of people.

– Sanathana Sarathi, December 2009