Sri Sathya Sai Baba A Life

Bill Aitken

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Born to a poor family in the village of Pitapat in southern Andhra Pradesh, Satyanarayana Raju was a bright, talented and confident boy whose charitable nature and religiosity belied his tender age. Deeply suspicious of his spiritual precociousness, his father made him go through a traumatic exorcism. But the boy already had a devoted band of followers and, when he was thirteen, announced that he was the Shirdi Sai Baba reborn.

Today, Sri Sathya Sai Baba has an estimated thirty million followers worldwide. Acclaimed travel writer and self-described `spiritual nomad' Bill Aitken tells us why so many—royalty, wealthy industrialists, influential politicians, as well as the poor—flock to Pitapat. Sai Baba's message, he reveals, can be summed up in one word: love.

It is as simple as it is profound, not unlike how his devotees see the Sai himself—the embodiment of deep spirituality wedded to simplicity, elegance and grace. Yet, the Sai phenomenon is less about producing vibhuti from thin air and more about modern-day miracles. Miracles like free schools and universities, super-specialty hospitals which provide free treatment to all and revolutionary projects like the one which has brought drinking water to a million villagers in drought-prone Rayalaseema.

Aitken's study is neither a hagiographic exercise in myth-making nor a dry, objective account of the Sai's life. While never shy of expressing his deep love and reverence for Sai Baba, he squarely confronts the controversies and criticisms which inevitably dog those who claim acquaintance with the holy.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Early Life and Divine Mission: The biography delves into the early life of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, including his birth and childhood, and explores his proclamation of a divine mission to spread love, peace, and spiritual teachings.

  2. Miracles and Healing: Sri Sathya Sai Baba's reputed miracles and healing abilities are highlighted, with accounts of devotees' experiences of witnessing miraculous events and experiencing profound transformations.

  3. Teachings on Love and Compassion: The book discusses Sri Sathya Sai Baba's core teachings on love, compassion, and selfless service, emphasizing the importance of practicing these virtues in daily life.

  4. Spiritual Practices: Sri Sathya Sai Baba's emphasis on spiritual practices such as meditation, prayer, and self-inquiry is explored, offering readers guidance on the path to inner awakening and self-realization.

  5. Humanitarian Work: The biography showcases Sri Sathya Sai Baba's extensive humanitarian work, including the establishment of educational institutions, hospitals, and social welfare projects to uplift the underprivileged and marginalized communities.

  6. Universal Message: Sri Sathya Sai Baba's universal message of unity, tolerance, and harmony among all religions and cultures is highlighted, emphasizing the need for global peace and understanding.

  7. Devotional Practices: The book delves into the devotional practices associated with Sri Sathya Sai Baba, including bhajans (devotional songs), seva (selfless service), and pilgrimage to his ashram in Puttaparthi, India.

  8. Guru-Disciple Relationship: The biography explores the unique guru-disciple relationship between Sri Sathya Sai Baba and his devotees, illustrating the transformative power of his presence and teachings in their lives.

  9. Criticism and Controversy: While acknowledging Sri Sathya Sai Baba's widespread reverence, the book also addresses criticisms and controversies surrounding his life and legacy, offering a balanced perspective on his influence.

  10. Legacy and Influence: Finally, the biography reflects on Sri Sathya Sai Baba's enduring legacy and influence on millions of followers worldwide, exploring his impact on spirituality, philanthropy, and social transformation.

Language English
ISBN-10 014400061X
ISBN-13 9780144000616
No of pages 259
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Penguin India
Published Date 07 Jul 2006

About Author

Author : Bill Aitken

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