Rama Krishna Sangem
The Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations (SSSSO), Meghalaya, celebrated the 99th birthday of Sri Sathya Sai Baba at Prasanthi Sadhana Nilayam, Shillong on November 23, Saturday. Part of a global network with a presence in over 120 countries and organizational units across all Indian states, the SSSSO operates on the principles of “Love All, Serve All” and interfaith harmony.
The day began with Nagar Sankirtan at 5:20 AM, followed by Vedam Path and spiritually uplifting bhajans by Jhalupara and Nongmynsong Bhajan Mandalis, joined by Jai Mata Di Parivar and Art of Living Meghalaya. The celebration drew a large gathering of devotees, united in their faith and commitment to service.
A special highlight was Narayana Seva, where food was served to over 800 people, along with distribution at an orphanage in the Ananda Marga School, Nongmynsong, reaffirming the organisation’s dedication to social welfare.
Shri Hemango Kishore Dutta, District President of SSSSO Meghalaya, outlined the organisation’s initiatives over the past year, which included:
- Adoption of Villages (Gram Seva) to address the holistic development of rural communities.
- Sadhana Camps to inspire spiritual growth and service-mindedness.
- Plantation drives to promote environmental conservation.
- Educational programs and youth engagement activities aimed at fostering selfless service.
Centenary Celebration Plans
Looking ahead to the centenary of Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s birth in 2025, Shri Dutta announced ambitious plans, including:
- Expanding Narayana Seva to reach more underprivileged communities.
- Launching comprehensive initiatives under Gram Seva for sustainable village development.
- Conducting more Sadhana Camps to deepen spiritual understanding and community bonding.
- Strengthening programs for environmental sustainability, including extensive plantation drives.
- Implementing initiatives to empower youth through educational workshops and service-oriented activities.
The Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations’ journey in Northeast India began in 1969, when seven village heads from NEFA (now Arunachal Pradesh), led by the late Shri Rajendra Singh Patir, visited Prasanthi Nilayam during the Bharat Darshan program. Sri Sathya Sai Baba blessed the delegation, materializing five metal discs that were later enshrined in the foundation of the Donyi Polo Mandir, symbolizing harmony among faiths. Rooted in Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s teachings, the organisation remains committed to its mission of living in alignment with higher consciousness, serving society, and fostering interfaith unity. The centenary celebrations will be an opportunity to further spread His message of universal love and selfless service.