A Century of Love and Service: Global Tributes Mark Sri Sathya Sai Baba's 100th Birth Anniversary - AP Events

 

Today, November 19, 2025, the spiritual capital of Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh, became the focus of global devotion as thousands gathered for the historic 100th Birth Anniversary (Centenary) Celebrations of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The monumental event at Prasanthi Nilayam was a powerful reaffirmation of the spiritual leader’s message: “Love All, Serve All; Help Ever, Hurt Never.”

The celebrations were elevated by the presence of high-profile dignitaries and beloved personalities, underscoring the non-sectarian and widespread impact of the Baba's life and legacy.

National Honor: PM Inaugurates ₹100 Coin and Stamp

The cornerstone of the centenary event was the presence of Hon'ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who led the national tribute to the revered spiritual leader.

Key Inaugural Ceremonies

At the Sri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium, the Prime Minister formally inaugurated and released a ₹100 Commemorative Coin and a Special Commemorative Postal Stamp.

• Commemorative Coin: The ₹100 coin, approved by the Ministry of Finance, features the image of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, inscribed with his birth and centenary years (1926-2026)—a lasting official tribute to his enduring legacy.

• Postal Stamp: The release of the stamp further solidifies the national recognition of Baba's transformative work in areas of social service and spiritual awakening.

The Prime Minister also offered his obeisance and prayers at the Mahasamadhi in Sai Kulwant Hall and participated in the traditional 'Godaan' (cow donation) ceremony, engaging personally with the spiritual traditions of the occasion.

PM’s Address: Service as the Highest Duty

Addressing the massive gathering, PM Modi described his participation as an "emotional and spiritual experience," stating that Baba’s life was a living embodiment of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam ("The world is one family"). He praised the Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust for its commendable work, noting its support for the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana accounts, which promote the financial security of young girls.

He concluded by urging all citizens to embrace the spirit of 'Sevoparama Dharmah' (service is the supreme duty) and contribute to the national mission of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India).

Dignitaries and Devotion: A Confluence of Leaders

The event saw a powerful convergence of political and cultural figures:

• Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan were present, highlighting the state’s deep reverence for the Sathya Sai institutions located in Puttaparthi. CM Naidu recalled Baba's teachings and his massive contribution to AP, particularly the Rayalaseema water project.

• Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar offered a deeply personal tribute, recalling his spiritual bond with Baba since childhood and the profound influence of his teachings on his life.

• Actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, an alumna of the Sai Bal Vikas program, delivered a moving speech centered on unity. She articulated Baba’s universal message: “There is only one caste, the caste of humanity. There is only one religion, the religion of love.”

The Unwavering Legacy: Education, Health, and Water

The Centenary serves as a powerful reminder of the humanitarian model established by Sri Sathya Sai Baba, executed entirely free of charge:

• Educare: Providing values-based education, from primary schools to a multidisciplinary university, ensuring education is “for life, not just for a living.”

• Healthcare: Running Super Speciality Hospitals that offer advanced medical care, including robotic surgeries, without charging a single rupee, proving that quality healthcare can be delivered through compassion.

• Water Supply: The transformative Water Project, which brought clean drinking water to thousands of villages in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and beyond, addressing one of the region's most fundamental needs.

As the world observes this centenary, the legacy of service, compassion, and unity continues to guide millions, ensuring that the light lit in Puttaparthi burns brighter than ever.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What are the major announcements made by the Prime Minister at the event?

The key announcements by PM Modi included the formal inauguration and release of a ₹100 Commemorative Coin and a set of Special Postage Stamps to mark the Birth Centenary of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. He also highlighted the Trust’s social contributions, such as supporting the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana.

Q2: Which renowned personalities attended the Centenary Celebrations in Puttaparthi?

The event was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, and actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, among others.

Q3: What is the core teaching of Sri Sathya Sai Baba?

The core teaching, which guides all of his institutions, is “Love All, Serve All; Help Ever, Hurt Never.” This message emphasizes universal love and selfless service as the highest form of spiritual practice.

Q4: What is the most significant humanitarian contribution of the Sri Sathya Sai Trust?

The Trust's most significant contributions are its pioneering projects in free, values-based education (from primary to university level), free super-speciality healthcare, and large-scale drinking water projects (including the Rayalaseema project) benefiting millions in South India.