Genesis & History
A grand spectacle of world unity was witnessed when over 6,000 youth from 86 countries of the world congregated at Prasanthi Nilayam to participate in Sri Sathya Sai World Youth Conference held in the Divine Presence on 26th, 27th and 28th July, 2007. Baba blessed the youth of Sri Sathya Sai University also to participate in this unique conference as delegates. The theme of the Conference was ‘Ideal Sai Youth: Messengers of Sai Love’. Baba, in His infinite love for the youth blessed the conference with His Inaugural and Valedictory Addresses.
On the morning of 26th July, 2007, Baba granted Darshan amidst Vedic chants in Sai Kulwant Hall at 8.00 am. A grand youth rally was held in the Divine presence. This rally was led by the Vedic chanting group of delegates with Poorna Kumbham who offered traditional welcome to Baba. This group was followed by the brass band of Sri Sathya Sai University and the contingents of 86 countries holding the name boards and national flags of their countries. The contingents of gents were followed by the ladies. They also recited Vedic Mantras holding Poorna Kumbham and were followed by the brass band of Anantapur Campus and the bagpipers of Sri Sathya Sai Primary School, Prasanthi Nilayam.
After the rally, Baba lit the lamp and inaugurated the Conference at 9.00 am. The proceedings of the Conference started with the welcome address by Dr. Michael Goldstein, Chairman, Sri Sathya Sai World Foundation. Sri Shitu Chudasama, International Youth Coordinator of Sri Sathya Sai Organisation, in his introductory speech reminded the youth that this was a wonderful opportunity for them to understand the fundamental truths of human life and Baba Himself was there to teach them. At the end of his speech, Baba blessed him and materialised a gold chain for him. Thereafter, Baba blessed the delegates with His Inaugural Discourse. The proceedings of the Inaugural Session of the Conference concluded with offering Mangala Aarati at 10.30 am. Prasadam was distributed to all.
On 27th July, 2007, the second day’s proceedings of the Conference commenced after the Divine Darshan of Baba in Sai Kulwant Hall at 9.00 am. Three speakers, Sri Shashank Shah, Research Scholar, Sri Sathya Sai University, Ms. Alma Berra of Argentina and Mr. Jermy Hoffer of USA addressed the delegates. The morning session concluded with Bhajans and Mangala Aarati was offered to Baba at 10.40 am. Prasadam was distributed to all.
On the afternoon of 28th July, 2007, the Valedictory Function of the Conference was held in the Divine presence of Baba in Sai Kulwant Hall. At the outset, Sri Shitu Chudasama expressed gratitude to Baba for the wonderful opportunity granted by Him to youth from different parts of the world. He also presented at the Lotus Feet the summary of the proceedings of four workshops held during these three days. Following his talk, Dr. Narendra Reddy, Director, Sri Sathya Sai World Foundation and Dr. Michael Goldstein, Chairman, Sri Sathya Sai World Foundation addressed the gathering.
Thereafter, Baba blessed the delegates with His Valedictory Address. Explaining the origin of creation, He said that the entire Universe emerged from the truth which was embodied in God. Baba here materialised a Hiranyagarbha Linga and asked, “Who else can manifest such pure consciousness?” He expressed His happiness on the gathering of such a large number of youths from all parts of the world. He said, “I am extremely happy to see you all here. This is your good fortune.” He showered His blessings on all delegates and exhorted them to lead a happy, peaceful life.
During the Valedictory Function of the Youth Conference, the overseas delegates from three countries presented a music concert in the Divine Presence. The programme entitled, ‘European Music Programme’ comprised devotional songs in German, Russian, Polish, Latvian, Italian and Czech languages. Baba blessed the artistes and gifted them wrist watches. The proceedings of the Youth Conference concluded with this befitting grand finale of musical presentation. Mangala Aarati was offered at 6.15 pm.
On the afternoon of 26th July, 2007, a friendly basketball match was played in the Divine presence between India and Sri Lanka in Sri Sathya Sai International Centre for Sports on the occasion of Sri Sathya Sai World Youth Conference. All the delegates to the Conference were invited to this programme. Baba arrived at the Centre at 4.25 pm and blessed both the teams. The Secretary General of FIBA, Asia – Mr. Dato Yeoh Choo Hosk introduced the players, coaches and officials of both the sides to Baba. The match concluded at 5.10 pm.