Sri Sathya Sai Rathotsavam Heralds Historic Dawn in Golden Centennial Celebrations at Prasanthi Nilayam
The Golden Centennial Celebrations of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba entered a landmark phase on Tuesday with the auspicious commencement of the Sri Sathya Sai Rathotsavam, an elevated and spiritually enriched extension of the revered Venugopala Swami Chariot Festival instituted by Bhagawan five decades ago. The event marked a historic milestone in the centenary observances, reflecting the universal and Sarva-Devatateeta glory of Bhagawan.
The day began with the ceremonial arrival of Bhagawan in His golden idol form, marking the start of the Sri Sathya Sai Sathya Narayana Vratam. Hundreds of couples participated in the sacred rite, guided by learned priests and immersed in the vibrations of Vedic chants. The recital of the Sathya Narayana Vrata Kathas added devotional depth as devotees offered prayers for peace and divine grace.
A key highlight of the celebrations was the grand arrival of the 27-foot Silver Chariot of Golden Sai, ceremonially brought from the Pedda Venkama Raju Kalyana Mandapam to Prasanthi Nilayam. The procession radiated festive splendour as village folk danced in devotion, broke coconuts, and offered arathi, while Vedam and Bhajan groups enhanced the sanctified atmosphere.
Amidst thunderous chants and an unprecedented congregation of devotees, Bhagawan’s Golden Idol was ceremoniously installed on the towering chariot, marking the historic launch of the first Sri Sathya Sai Rathotsavam. The divine procession was further graced by the participation of Sri Venugopala Swami, along with Sri Ramachandra, Mother Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman, adding regal spiritual magnificence to the occasion.
The palanquin procession back to the Pedda Venkama Raju Kalyana Mandapam attracted thousands, who lined the beautifully decorated pathways to witness the once-in-a-century event and offer their devotion.
With today’s celebrations, Prasanthi Nilayam and Puttaparthi have inscribed a new chapter in spiritual history, as the Sri Sathya Sai Rathotsavam ushers in a luminous new era in honour of the centenary of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s Divine Advent.