Author: Radha Subramaniam
Edits: Shivakumar Chandrasekaran
Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba holds a very special place in my heart, an Avatar whose presence can be sensed with just a fleeting thought. Despite His profound accessibility, some find Him elusive. Our family’s connection with Swami dates back to the seventies. In 1975, our grandmother underwent a surgery that went wrong, leading to complications that stumped even the topmost of doctors. During that critical phase, our family sought blessings from Swami. His Vibhuthi miraculously healed her, a medical marvel that left doctors astounded. Subsequently, she lived for over 25 plus years.
Swami’s Birthday Celebration with Mohanji in Gopal Krishna Baba’s Ashram
The connection was established and for us Baba was part of our daily prayers just like the other forms ever since our childhood. My first visit to Puttaparthi was in 1991, when I was just a young child. This blessed opportunity unfolded through grace. A year into my dance lessons, my sister Sathya was selected by our dance teacher Smt Jayanthy Subramaiam to participate in a group production for the Spirit of Unity concerts during Swami’s birthday celebrations. This 10-day event brought together renowned artists from around the world to honour Swami through various Indian art forms—classical music, dance, drama, instrumental performances, and more. It was a grand celebration befitting the greatness of the Avatar.
Our teacher choreographed the Dasavatharam with utmost devotion and it took shape with rigorous practice. Everyone was prepared for the upcoming performance as a part of the Spirit of Unity concerts. Though I wasn’t initially a part of the production, the thought that the performance coincided with my birthday and would be presented in front of Swami sparked a desire to participate. In the eleventh hour, I approached my teacher with the request to join, even in a small role. Unable to refuse a little child’s earnest desire, she graciously included me at the last minute.
On November 13th, after a lengthy bus ride, we received a special welcome upon our arrival at Puttaparthi. Every artist, regardless of age or stature, was greeted warmly. We were provided with comfortable accommodations within the expansive ashram complex. After a brief rest, we had our first darshan. Seated in a special area demarcated for the artistes, we had a grand darshan of Swami in close proximity. Thereafter, we attended an incredible evening concert, which was followed by a sumptuous sattvic dinner.
As we retired for the night, we eagerly awaited the next morning’s Darshan, which held even more significance. On my birthday, I found myself seated next to the world-renowned artist Parvin Sultana, who was also scheduled to perform that day. As Swami came near, I had the privilege of handing him a letter from my father. With a warm smile, he lovingly accepted the letter, marking the beginning of a very special Darshan.
Swami’s Birthday Celebration and His Precious Gift
In the evening, we were all set for the performance, and the program commenced on time. Swami graced the audience with His presence. I had the privilege of being the first to go on stage, alongside two other dancers of my age group, for a short invocation. Swami observed us from the front, and as soon as we finished, just before the others in the group performed, he went backstage. Since my part was completed by the time he returned backstage, I found myself once again in close proximity to Him. After the entire performance concluded, we offered pada namaskar, and Swami graciously gifted each of us a beautiful sari. The performance marked the initiation of our dance journey.
Captured in the Reflection: A Casual Moment in the Presence of Swami
At that time, little did we know that we were blessed to take this divine art form across the world, through the Himalayan School of Traditional Dance, founded by Mohanji, reaching aspiring dancers from various countries. Sathya and I consider ourselves immensely fortunate to be a part of this greatly blessed platform.
Indeed, a Master’s plan is always a true master plan!
Divine Choreography: Dancing to the Rhythm of a Master’s Grand Plan.
Countless miracles and blessings have enriched my life, but the most profound one is the constant presence of Swami guiding me at every moment, showering blessings at every instance. The serendipitous arrival of Mohanji into our lives has been the most remarkable gift, for which we will be eternally grateful.
Swamy’s most profound Gift: Mohanji’s Presence, in our lives
Sai Baba of Parthi – His incarnation was to invoke the world to Truth, Dharma, Peace, Service and Love. He existed on earth as a guide and hope to many. He gave solace to the underprivileged and gave direction to people to live and let live peacefully, coexist harmoniously. He influenced the hearts of many to lead their lives in service of the world.
He lives with us, within us always ~ Mohanji
