 Prasanthi Nilayam:Puttaparthi was
described a few years ago by a western writer as a place, ‘a few footsteps away from
stone age’. Today, however that very hamlet holds in its heart ‘Prasanthi
Nilayam’ or Abode of the Highest Peace, one of the most important pilgrim centres of
India and the world. This is the abode of Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, 73, perhaps
India’s most known saint of modern times. Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the most colourful and
multifaceted prophet, modern India has produced, is believed to be the very avatar
(incarnation) of love and the voice of one’s own innermost heart speaking to each
individual externally. The teachings of the Baba are based on the famous ‘five
props’ of Sathya (truth), Dharma (righteousness) Santhi (peace), Prema (universal
love) and Ahimsa (non violence). Prasanthi Nilayam, over the years, has attracted people
from all over then world. The Ashram has a code of conduct which every visitor should
follow. The Ashram also has museums, stadiums, educational institutions, the Sai Space
Theatre etc. The 23rd of November is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm
by the devotees of Baba at the Prasanthi Nilayam. Over a million people gather here on the
occasion of the Baba’s birthday. The atmosphere around the Ashram is undeniably
peaceful, and the growth of such a vibrant community in this once forgotten backward area
is not a small miracle.
How to get
there:Prasanthi Nilayam can be reached by bus, car or train from Bangalore (150
km)or Dharmavaram (42 km), by road. It is also connected by flight from Mumbai.
Sathyam Vada (Always speak the Truth)
Dharmam Chara (Always engage only in Righteous
action)
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