Puttaparthi : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday described the birth centenary celebrations of Sri Sathya Sai Baba as a "divine blessing" and hailed him as the embodiment of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'.
While addressing a public gathering in Puttaparthi, the Prime Minister, who earlier offered prayers at the Mahasamadhi, said being present in the revered town was both an emotional and spiritual experience. "Being present among you all today in this sacred land is an emotional and spiritual experience for me. A short while ago, I had the opportunity to pay my respects at Sri Sathya Sai Baba's Samadhi. This birth centenary year of Shri Sathya Sai Baba is not just a celebration for our generation; it is a divine blessing," the Prime Minister said.
PM Modi added that while Sri Sathya Sai Baba is no longer physically present, his message of love, compassion and service continues to shape lives around the world. "Even though he is no longer physically present among us, his teachings, his love, and his spirit of service continue to guide millions. Millions of lives in more than 140 countries are moving forward with new light, new direction, and new resolve," he said.
Calling Shri Sathya Sai Baba's life a living embodiment of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family), the Prime Minister said that this centenary year has transformed into a "grand festival of universal love, peace, and service for us".
Meanwhile, PM Modi also launched 'Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana'. PM Modi, with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, also released a commemorative coin and a set of stamps honouring the life and teachings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, in Puttaparthi.
Earlier today, PM Modi was felicitated by Andhra Pradesh CM Naidu at the birth centenary celebrations of Sri Satya Sai Baba in Puttaparthi. Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Union Ministers Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu and G Kishan Reddy were also present.
The celebrations included cultural dance performances and singing.Earlier today, PM Modi visited the holy shrine and 'Mahasamadhi' of Sri Sathya Sai Baba in Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh, and offered his obeisance and paid respects.
Before that, PM Modi held a roadshow while on his way to Puttaparthi to attend the birth centenary celebrations of Sri Satya Sai Baba. People in large numbers lined the streets to welcome PM Modi.