Day 5 Overview
Despite the humidity level this morning, discipline was maintained as devotees lined up for morning Darshan as usual. With spirits elevated and excitement building, the group then began preparations for the long awaited School Seva Visit today. The buses to transport devotees to the ZP Girls High School in Gorantla were delayed, however, this did little to dampen enthusiasm or anticipation.
Three buses eventually arrived, although only two were needed. Men and women travelled separately, with the open-door vehicles allowing a welcome breeze to flow through. To lift spirits, bhajans rang out joyfully as the convoy journeyed through bustling village roads, lush green landscapes, and peaceful countryside. Along the way, traffic came to a respectful pause for a curious herd of goats passing along the road, adding a touch of rural charm to the experience.
Upon arrival at the 650 pupil school, the group was met with a joyous reception. A narrow road led to a courtyard where smiling students and staff awaited with drums, chants of “Sai Ram,” and a shower of flower petals. Each devotee was given a red flower as they entered the school’s central atrium, where over 250 girls sat neatly in rows in smart brown and green uniforms, ponytails tied with precision.
Swami’s presence was immediately felt.
Brother Shithubhai addressed the students with deep feeling:
“You girls were told that Sathya Sai Baba was coming to see you. Actually, we have come to see Sathya Sai Baba in each one of you.”
He concluded:
“We are all going back to Europe with an extra 650 daughters.”
A teacher responded on behalf of the school:
“You have inspired us all, and we promise to do our best.”
She added:
“We don’t know much about Baba, but we pray for His blessing to help us all.”
Ahead of the main group of devotees arriving, an advance group arrived at the school earlier and had the opportunity to visit classrooms, and talk to some of the students who shared their dreams of becoming Indian Administrative Service (IAS ) or Indian Police Service (IPS) officers; prestigious roles in Indian public service, as well as doctors, committed to healing and serving others. Many of the girls enthusiastically shared that their favourite subject was English, spoken with pride and confidence.
As an offering from Zone 6 devotees, each of the 650 girls received a lovingly prepared set of gifts including a skipping rope, badminton racket and shuttlecock, a geometry set, a sweet treat, a colouring set, and clipboard. In addition, devotees from the Netherlands gifted a framed photo of Swami, which was warmly accepted by the school’s headteacher.
The joy and gratitude shown by everyone in the school was overwhelming and devotees departed for the return journey with hearts full.
The evening’s activities once again began with Evening Darshan in Sai Kulwant Hall. Following this, Brother Prathap Thakkar, President of the UK Sai Organisation, addressed the congregation with a message full of insight and encouragement.
He spoke of Prasanthi Nilayam as the epicentre of divinity on earth, and reminded all present
“We’re not merely pilgrims, but chosen instruments to Love All, Serve All.”
Reflecting on the unity across the region, he shared:
“Zone 6 is a diverse region but united by the love of Swami with a commitment to deliver His message.”
“We walk in unity and serve together.”
He announced with joy that the UK Sai Organisation had just completed its first year as a registered charitable organisation, with financial statements now prepared for Swami’s approval before formal submission.
He also talked about progress within the UK organisation as it continues to grow and flourish:
– 70 Sai centres across 8 regions in the UK
– Over 1,000 children currently enrolled in Balvikas classes
– The first National Retreat in nine years successfully held
– 650 devotees attended this year’s Easwaramma Day celebrations
– 10,000 foodbank donations made nationally in the last year.
Brother Prathap also observed that devotees who used to go to their centres out of habit now do so seeking genuine spiritual growth. He concluded with a powerful reminder:
“The greatest offering we can make is our transformation. We must strive to be instruments of His love.”
The evening culminated in a beautiful musical performance by the Adult Choir, titled “Language of the Heart.” The performance also included a rendition of George Harrison’s “My Sweet Lord”, sung in unison by all members of the pilgrimage. These uplifting songs lit up Sai Kulwant Hall, echoing through the night with the resonance of love, unity, and joy.
Explore Day 6
On Saturday, 2 August, the penultimate day of the Zone 6 pilgrimage to Prasanthi Nilayam was marked by deep reflection, powerful performances, and spiritual affirmation. Brother Shithubhai reminded all that this was “perhaps the end of the beginning,” expressing gratitude to the Central Trust and volunteers, and affirming that Zone 6 is “not just growing, it is blossoming.” A captivating Balvikas production by 108 children highlighted unity, kindness, and resilience through global and scriptural stories. The day concluded with a profound talk by Sri SS Naganand, who urged devotees to embrace transformation, live Swami’s teachings, and allow themselves to be carried forward by His grace.