India Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Group III and Alumni Convention
All India Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Group III and Alumni Convention Sunday, January 8th , 2012 A convention for the all India Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Group III and Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Alumni was held in Prasanthi Nilayam on the 7th and 8th of Jan 2012. Over two thousand Balvikas Children, Alumni and Gurus from across India assembled here for the meet. The programme commenced on 7th morning at 1030hrs at Poornachandra Hall, Prasanthi Nilayam with the lighting of the lamp by Dr. Keki Mistry, Trustee, Sri Sathya Sai Trust, Maharashtra. He was accompanied on the stage by Sri S. V. Giri, Sri Sanjay Sahani and Sri Nimish Pandya. Sri R J Ratnakar was also present at the function. In his inaugural address, Dr. Keki Mistry laid great stress on Atma Vishwas, confidence in one self. Recounting beautiful memories with Bhagawan, he walked the delegates through the history of Bal Vikas. His succinct talk was well suited for the occasion. Sri Nikhil Koushik, a Balvikas alumnus, spoke next on the purpose and objectives of the meet. Thereafter, two melodius group theme songs with good background scores, Akhanda Jyot Jalao and Sai Kiran Jalate Chal, were presented by the delegates. Around 11.30 am Sri Sanjay Sahani, Director, Sri Sathya Sai Institute Of Higher Learning, addressed the delegates and spoke on the importance of the 5 D’s. His talk was full of personal experiences with Bhagawan and it was a treat for all those who were present.
Sweet orations by children and Alumni and some wonderful music lit up the evening. The programme compered by Sri Nikhil Kaushik began at 1700hrs. There were group songs and theme talks by delegates of Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Group III and Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Alumni. The speakers for the evening Ms. Samarpita Bannerjee, Sri. Parikshit Kohli and Ms. Radhika Mathur gave wonderful talks making it very clear the values that Bal Vikas has developed in these young men and women.
Delegates from Kerala presented an innovative Fusion Instrumental Music entitled Naada Laya while alumni delegates from Karnataka and Maharashtra presented a vocal concert titled “Sri Sathya Sai Mahima”. Ms. Jyoti who has sung before Bhagawan earlier sang a few classical melodious Bhajans.
The second day of the conference of the All India Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Group III and Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Alumni programme, commenced at 10:23 am at Poornachandra Hall, Prasanthi Nilayam. After the inspiring address by Sri Keki Mistry, Ms. Yunita Pandey and Ms. Shrunkala narrated to the assembled delegates how Bal Vikas helped them in their lives.
Thereafter, two melodius group theme songs, antar jyoti jalao man me and Sai the Lord of our heart, were presented by the delegates. Dr. Shashank Shah of the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning spoke about ten-point programme for spiritual growth, and was very well received by the delegates. His topics highlighted mainly on Karma, Janma, Dharma and Brahma. Alumni student Master Bhaskar played “chitta chora yashoda ke bal…” on the flute while Kum. Madhavi narrated a Hindi poetry. Sri Nimish Pandya gave the concluding address and reminded all the delegates that Bhagawan was their only True Friend. Arati was offered at 12:45 pm.
The evening programme compered by Sri Anush Mohan started at 1700hrs with two group songs. This was followed by talks by delegates, sister Mandevi from Madhya Pradesh and brother Arjun Suresh from Tamil Nadu. A Compendium of articles by Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Alumni titled “Blossoming Human Excellence” containing 17 articles from Bal Vikas students from different parts of India, was released and offered at the Sanctum Sanctorum. Outstanding Alumni of Sri Sathya Sai Balvikas were felicitated with achievement awards followed by the unveiling of Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Logo. Sri Nimish Pandya introduced Sri Satyajit, a Balvikas Prodigy from Kerala who gave a confident oration followed by Veda Chanting and Bhajan Singing. The performance earned a thundering applause for the tiny tot which lasted for several minutes. A recording from Bhagawan’s discourse inspiring the Balvikas children to practice incessantly the values learnt inspired the delegates. The programme concluded with an impressive instrumental presentation by delegates from Chennai. Bhagawan singing “Hari bhajana bina sukha santhi nahi…” brought down the curtain on the immensely successful two day convention. Mementos were distributed to all the delegates with special gifts for the performers. It was indeed an event to remember for all. All India Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Group III and Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Alumni – Morning Programme – 8th January, 2012.The second day of the conference of the All India Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Group III and Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Alumni programme, on January 8, 2012, at Poornachandra Hall, Prasanthi Nilayam, started at 10.25 am and ended around 12.45 pm. At 10.25 am Dr. Keki Mistry, Trustee, Sri Sathya Sai Trust, Maharashtra, once again regaled the delegates with wonderful time spent with Bhagawan. He also spoke about the story of the “Bamboo Shoot”. It takes time for the roots to be strong. Take a shoot of this rare species of bamboo and plant it in fertile soil.” “Wait for a whole year,” he continued, “and you will be disappointed. For the bamboo shoot will still look the same as the day when you planted it inspite of all the manures, fertilizers and watering the plant. Unlike most plants, it will still sit in the ground, dormant, waiting – for just the right time.” It is only in the sixth year that the plant starts appearing. “Love is that bamboo shoot,” Dr. Keki Mistry said. The foundation for which can take what appears to be a long, long time, but when the time is right, it will grow very fast, blossom as it were to full maturity and potential. There were two melodious group theme songs sung today 1. Antar Jyoti jalao man me. 2. Sai the Lord of our heart. Sister Yunita Pandey and sister Shrunkala, the two speakers who were given the opportunity today, narrated to the assembled delegates how Bal Vikas helped them in their lives. Around 11.30 am Dr. Shashank Shah, SSSIHL addressed the delegates. Dr. Shashank Shah spoke at great length for about 45 minutes. His topics highlighted mainly on karma, janma, dharma and brahma. He also spoke about ten-point programme for spiritual growth, and was very well received by the delegates. Thereafter, Shri Nimish Pandya spoke to the assembled delegates and reminded them all that “God is Your only True Friend”. He sang a bhajan befitting the occasion, “Naino me prem dhar, vachno me amrit dhar, Sadguru Sai mera jeevan ka aadhar” and instructed them all to keep love in their eyes and Sai in their heart. The programme of the morning session ended around 12.45 pm with the playing of the flute “Chitta Chora Yashoda Ke Bal…” by the Alumni student Master Bhaskar and a Hindi poem was narrated by sister Madhavi. The entire programme was compered by Jigyasa Sethi. The programme concluded with the Aarti.
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Report of Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Group III and Alumni Convention – Evening Session – Sai Kulwant Hall – 08.01.2012 The evening programme started at 5.00 pm with two group songs – Antar Jyoti jalao man me and a song in English – Sai the Lord of our heart. This was followed by talks by delegates, sister Mandevi from Madhya Pradesh and brother Arjun Suresh from Tamil Nadu A Compendium of articles by Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Alumni titled “Blossoming Human Excellence” containing 17 articles from Bal Vikas students from different parts of India, was released and offered at the Sanctum Sanctorum. The achievement awards were handed over to the outstanding Alumni of Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas who were felicitated. The Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Logo was unveiled by Sri S V Giri. Sri Nimish Pandya then introduced Sri Satyajit, a gifted Balvikas child from Kerala who spoke on the importance of vedas and drew a loud applause from everyone for his vedic chanting and soulful bhajan rendition. There was also a rapturous musical instrumental presentation by delegates from Chennai. This was followed by recording from Bhagawan’s discourse inspiring the Balvikas children to practice incessantly the values learnt. The assembly also heard Swami singing, “Hari bhajana bina sukha santhi nahi…” The entire programme was compered by Anush Mohan The participants were presented with clothes. Gifts were also given to all the delegates. Laddoo prasadam was distributed to the assembly. Group Photos were also taken. The programme concluded around 6.45 pm with the offering of Aarti. All India Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Group III and Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Alumni – Morning Programme – 7th January, 2012.The All India Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Group III and Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Alumni programme began on January 7, 2012, at Poornachandra Hall, Prasanthi Nilayam. Over 1800 delegates from all over India have come to participate in the two-day function. At 10.30 am Dr. Keki Mistry, Trustee, Sri Sathya Sai Trust, Maharashtra, lit the inaugural lamp. He was accompanied on the stage by Shri S. V. Giri, Shri Sanjay Sahani and Shri Nimish Pandya. Shri R J Ratnakar was also present at the function. The function started with a talk given by Dr. Keki Mistry. The gist of his talk was that one should have confidence in oneself – Atma Vishwas. Dr. Keki Mistry spoke about the beautiful memories with Bhagawan and the history of the beginning of Bal Vikas. His talk was very well received by the entire delegates. Immediately after, there was a short talk by an alumnus of Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas, Shri Nikhi Kaushik, on the purpose and objectives of the meet. There were two melodious group theme songs, with wonderful background music, sung by the delegates: 1. Akhanda Jyot Jalao 2. Sai Kiran Jagata Chal Around 11.30 am Shri Sanjay Sahani, Director, Sri Sathya Sai Institute Of Higher Learning, addressed the delegates and spoke on the importance of the 5 D’s. His talk was full of personal experiences with Bhagawan and it was a treat for all those who were present. One such incident he narrated happened a few weeks back. There was a boy who always used to get a burning sensation in his body whenever he did something wrong, while Bhagawan was in His physical form. A few weeks back he got this same burning sensation, and he tried to figure out what wrong he had committed. He started thinking about this and remembered that he had seen another boy doing something wrong, but had kept quiet about it. He reported the matter to Shri Sanjay Sahani who verified the same and found it true and factual. Shri Sanjay Sahani then spoke to the boy who had committed the wrong, and told him that Swami’s love for him was so much that He had to bring to the notice of few people to bring about such a transformation. Shri Sanjay Sahani spoke at great length for about 45 minutes bringing thundering applause from the delegates. The programme of the morning session ended around 12.15 pm with Aarti
Report of the Evening Programme – 07.01.2012 at Sai Kulwant Hall – Prasanthi Nilayam What a beautiful SAI FUL day it was. The evening session witnessed maximum crowd and it was a very memorable evening too. There were thousands of devotees thronging the Sai Kulwant Hall. The beautifully decorated Mahasamadhi of our beloved Lord with huge garland of roses placed atop evoked memories with Him. Each and every devotee in this sacred Sai Kulwant Hall was given the opportunity to offer obeisance to Him at the conclusion of the programme. The programme began at 5 pm today. There were group songs and theme talks by delegates of Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Group III and Sri Sathya Sai Bal Vikas Alumni. The entire programme was compered by Mr Nikhil Kaushik. The main speakers for the evening were 1. Ms. Samarpita Bannerjee 2. Mr. Parikshit Kohli 3. Ms. Radhika Mathur The “Naada Laya” Instrumental Musical presentation by delegates from Kerala was really awesome. “Naada Laya” is a Sanskrit word meaning “the origin of sound”. The Sanskrit word “Laya” refers to a state of mental harmony and can mean “fusion” and “solution”. Today at Prasanthi Nilayam, a brand of “Innovative Fusion Instrumental Music” was played before a vast assembly, which created absolute peace and bliss. Ms. Jyoti who has sung before Bhagawan sang a few classical melodious bhajans. All the singers and speakers were presented with sarees/safaris. The programme concluded at 6.30 pm with bhajans and aarti. Group photo sessions were also taken. Prasadam was offered to all.
Bal Vikas Group III and Alumni Convention – Celebrating Values and Lifelong Learning
Education that integrates moral and spiritual values alongside academic learning is essential for nurturing responsible, compassionate, and capable individuals. The Bal Vikas Group III and Alumni Convention is a significant event that highlights this holistic approach. It brings together current students, alumni, mentors, and educators in a celebration of learning, service, and the enduring influence of Shri Sathya Sai Baba’s teachings.
The convention provides a platform for students of Bal Vikas Group III to showcase their progress, share experiences, and engage with alumni who have successfully applied these principles in their personal and professional lives. Through the Bal Vikas Group III and Alumni Convention , young learners are inspired by the achievements of those who walked the same path before them, reinforcing the importance of values in shaping success.
One of the core objectives of the Bal Vikas Group III and Alumni Convention is to strengthen the mentor-student relationship. Gurus and educators interact with their students beyond the usual classroom setting, sharing insights on moral development, character building, and spiritual growth. By observing and learning from mentors who live the values they teach, students gain practical guidance on how to integrate ethics, discipline, and empathy into everyday life.
The convention also emphasizes the continuity of learning beyond the formative years of Bal Vikas programs. Alumni sessions offer a unique opportunity to reflect on how values learned during childhood and adolescence can be applied in higher education, careers, and social responsibilities. Through discussions, workshops, and storytelling sessions, participants of the Bal Vikas Group III and Alumni Convention explore the lifelong relevance of character education and spiritual principles.
Interactive activities form a central component of the event. Students and alumni collaborate on service projects, team-building exercises, and creative presentations. These activities not only enhance practical skills but also foster cooperation, leadership, and social responsibility. The Bal Vikas Group III and Alumni Convention thus becomes a living laboratory where theoretical lessons in values are translated into meaningful action.
Spiritual sessions are another hallmark of the convention. Guided meditations, devotional singing, and reflections on Sathya Sai Baba’s teachings help participants cultivate mindfulness, inner peace, and a sense of purpose. Through these practices, both students and alumni are reminded that spiritual development is a lifelong journey. The Bal Vikas Group III and Alumni Convention emphasizes that learning values is not limited to childhood—it is a continuous process that shapes personal and professional integrity.
The convention also highlights the importance of community and collaboration. Participants from diverse regions and backgrounds come together, sharing ideas, experiences, and inspirations. This interaction broadens perspectives and encourages empathy, respect, and understanding. By connecting students and alumni in a shared spiritual and educational environment, the Bal Vikas Group III and Alumni Convention strengthens the sense of unity and belonging among all participants.
Parents and families play a supportive role during the event. Their presence reinforces the lessons being imparted, demonstrating the importance of moral and ethical guidance at home. Family engagement ensures that the values celebrated during the Bal Vikas Group III and Alumni Convention are consistently nurtured beyond the program, creating a holistic ecosystem of learning and moral growth.
An important outcome of the convention is the recognition of achievement and dedication. Students and alumni are acknowledged for their contributions to service projects, creative initiatives, and the promotion of ethical principles. This recognition motivates participants to continue striving for excellence, not merely in academics or careers, but in the cultivation of character and service to society. The Bal Vikas Group III and Alumni Convention instills pride, responsibility, and a sense of purpose among attendees.
Ultimately, the Bal Vikas Group III and Alumni Convention serves as a bridge between generations of learners. It celebrates the continuity of values, encourages the practical application of ethical principles, and strengthens the bonds of community and mentorship. By bringing together current students and alumni, the convention ensures that the teachings of Shri Sathya Sai Baba continue to resonate across time, inspiring individuals to live with integrity, compassion, and devotion.
In conclusion, the Bal Vikas Group III and Alumni Convention is more than a gathering; it is a celebration of holistic education, spiritual learning, and the enduring power of values. Through workshops, interactive sessions, service activities, and spiritual reflections, participants are reminded that true education extends beyond academics—it encompasses character, service, and lifelong learning. By participating in this convention, both students and alumni carry forward a legacy of integrity, empathy, and moral courage, creating a ripple effect that touches communities and society at large.
Bhajans By Shri Sathya Sai Baba Brahmaanda Naayaka