The 100th birth anniversary of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, affectionately known as Swami, was celebrated with devotion and enthusiasm by followers around the world. Born on 23 November 1926 in Puttaparthi, India, Baba declared at the age of 14 that his mission was the transformation of humanity through love and selfless service. His guiding principle, “Love all, Serve all; Help ever, Hurt never,” continues to inspire millions globally.
Sri Sathya Sai Baba was a revered spiritual leader, humanitarian, and global teacher. He initiated numerous philanthropic projects, including free super-specialty hospitals, educational institutions up to university level, water supply schemes, and other socio-care initiatives. These efforts exemplify only a fraction of his immense contribution to society. Baba never sought to start a new religion; instead, he urged followers to deepen their faith in their own paths while practicing love, service, and unity, promoting the brotherhood of man and fatherhood of God.
His teachings emphasized the importance of inner virtue and social harmony: “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; when 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. I have come to light the lamp of love in your hearts to see that it shines day by day with added lustre.” His words continue to guide people in cultivating compassion, integrity, and service.
In New Zealand, the centenary was celebrated on Sunday, 23 November, at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre, Eden Terrace, Auckland, organized by the Sri Sathya Sai Global Council-New Zealand. The event featured an exhibition highlighting Baba’s life, mission, and humanitarian work. The celebrations began with a chariot procession of Swami, carried by Sai volunteers from the Radha Krishna Mandir around the Gandhi Centre into the main hall. Opening prayers in reverence to Swami set the devotional tone, followed by music and dramatic presentations, personal life experiences shared by devotees, and a series of devotional songs.
A special highlight was the lion dance by Peter Lowe and his group, which drew thunderous applause, especially from children of Sathya Sai Bal Vikas classes. Distinguished guests included Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi, Ms. Swagatika, Mr. Venkat Raman, Mr. Roshan Nauhria, Mr. Yugal Parashar and Mrs. Jyoti Parashar, Mr. Dinesh Raniga and Mrs. Lata Raniga, and Mr. Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi with Mrs. Irvinder Kaur.
The program concluded with prayers offered to Swami and the distribution of a sumptuous vegetarian Prasadam, symbolizing unity and divine blessing. The centenary celebrations worldwide reaffirmed the enduring legacy of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, reminding devotees of his timeless message: that love, service, and righteousness are the guiding lights of life. His teachings and life continue to inspire generations to live with compassion, selflessness, and spiritual devotion.
-TIN Bureau