Golden Moments at Sri Sathya Sai Institute

Golden Moments at Sri Sathya Sai Institute

Vivek was a student from 1992-1994 in the Department of Management & Commerce at the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning. Currently, he is faculty at PSG Institute of Management, Coimbatore.

Much has been written about Prasanthi Nilayam and its activities. So I would like to recollect some of the wonderful moments that we as students had during our student life at the wonderful educational institution created there. I would like to focus on the Institution. That it has Swami’s invisible and visible backing is too well known. My journey as a student started when I missed the deadline for applying to the Institute. Now the Puranas say that when all else is lost, only Narayana can save us.

I wrote a prayer in a letter to Swami who was at Kodaikanal and enclosed my application form. I then forgot about my admission and went for darshan [the sight of the Lord] at Kodaikanal three to four times. To my surprise, my prayer was heard and the benevolent Lord had responded. I was called for the test, group discussion, and interview.

The entrance test was one of the most difficult that I have written in my life. The group discussion was on ‘IMF [International Monetary Fund] Forcing Indian Reforms’ and the interview had a panel of the most distinguished people from academics and the industry that anyone could imagine. I struggled to answer most of the questions on various subjects, as the depth of questioning was incredible worthy of an IIM [Indian Institutes of Management]. I decided to cool off from the Himalayan effort for a few days at Prasanthi Nilayam. Two days later, when the merit list was announced I got the delightful news that I was selected. I had made it past the most difficult selection test in my life. Now many years later, I still draw inspiration from the incident and have overcome many such situations.

We were given only five days to join for the summer course at Brindavan on May 20th. I rushed back, completed all my course completion formalities and packed my bags for Brindavan. There we got the first taste of the student’s life to come. The schedule started at 4 a.m. in the morning and ended at 10 p.m. From morning to evening we had a line of distinguished speakers talking to us on various spiritual matters and on how to lead a healthy and moral life. The star attraction of course was Swami’s discourse every afternoon. For the first few days, we struggled to get up and shave at 4 a.m. We wondered why managers needed this sort of regimen. Today, after seeing daily schedules of most corporate executives, I feel that it was more than justified, a good training for the life to come. I still fondly quote the schedule at Parthi, when someone asks me about why I enjoy working long hours at office.

After ten days at Brindavan, we got down to serious business—the MBA [Masters of Business Administration] course. This was a 100 credit course. Every semester, we had seven subjects followed by a comprehensive Viva Voce, [oral examination] which tested our in-depth knowledge in every subject. This was because Swami wanted all of us to be General Managers and not mere marketing or finance managers. We struggled past the barrage of highly specific questions from every conceivable corner of the specified books on management.

Our life in the hostel too was in no way easy. We had to share a room with eleven other students. We had to sleep on the floor. We had to eat sitting on the floor. We were called on to serve the food also. All these were in addition to the strenuous assignments, tests, and case presentations that we had to do. Added to this were the extensive cultural celebrations during every festival, the scale of which was unbelievable! We had to organize a number of items for each function, including Vedic chanting, brass band, drama, and many other activities, all connected with the festivals. All the while, our deadline for assignments was never extended, no excuse ever entertained, no test ever postponed, and no presentation ever missed! It was so perfect a training for a manager.

Most of today’s educational institutions talk of 75% and 80% attendance. I remember that in the two years of my MBA program, I had missed one or two classes at the most and that too, because I was very sick, unable to even walk. Otherwise, our average attendance percentage must have been around 99.9%. Not one of us ever missed a test or failed to submit an assignment.. It was a down to earth, no-nonsense approach to getting the job done, that I still retain when dealing with my students and others in my life.

The crowning glory of any experience at the SSSIHL is to be selected for the Kodaikanal trip by Swami. That 1-month probably added tons and tons of knowledge to each selected person in every conceivable field. Every day was filled with unbelievable, remarkable, and wonderful experiences. Everyone genuinely enjoyed the trip.

One notable remark made by one of my professors was about one of Swami’s statements, “A good management program aims to teach only three topics: Common Sense, General Knowledge, and Human Values”. I still proudly quote this to my students. Our stay was of course, embedded with innumerable parables and teachings from Swami. Even a big book will not be enough to document all these. Most importantly, before leaving, we were asked to serve India in every way possible. Such patriotism is rarely taught in any business school.

When I joined the Institute, I received remarks that this was not a very well-known MBA program and a few even asked me where Puttaparthi existed on the map of India! But recently, when I spoke to a few of my classmates, I proudly discovered that all of them were in the senior management positions in their respective organizations and they drew salaries at par with the alumni from the best business schools in India. What better compliment can there be for any Institute than a final recognition from the industry itself?

~By N. Vivek
Source: Fragrance 2005, Sathya Sai with Students

Golden Moments at Sri Sathya Sai Institute

The journey of spirituality and education often comes together in a beautiful way at the Sri Sathya Sai Institute. Students, teachers, and devotees who spend time in this sacred environment experience transformation not only in academics but also in character, discipline, and devotion. The atmosphere of the institute is filled with divine energy, moral values, and a sense of service that leaves a lasting impression on everyone. Many people describe their memories there as truly unforgettable, and these experiences become the Golden Moments at Sri Sathya Sai Institute that remain cherished throughout life.

The institute was established with the vision of providing education blended with spirituality and human values. Inspired by Shri Sathya Sai Baba’s teachings, the campus became a place where learning was not limited to books alone. Students were encouraged to live with honesty, humility, compassion, and discipline. The peaceful surroundings, devotional prayers, and service-oriented activities created a unique atmosphere that touched every heart. For many devotees connected with Devotional india, the institute stands as a symbol of spiritual education and divine inspiration.

One of the most memorable aspects of life at the institute is the daily prayer sessions and bhajans. Students gathered together every morning and evening to sing devotional songs with deep faith and love. These moments brought inner peace and unity among everyone present. Listening to spiritual discourses and participating in devotional gatherings became the foundation of many students’ spiritual growth. Such experiences are remembered forever as Golden Moments at Sri Sathya Sai Institute, where devotion and education walked hand in hand.

The guidance of Shri Sathya Sai Baba played a major role in shaping the lives of students and devotees. His teachings emphasized selfless service, truth, peace, love, and non-violence. Students learned the importance of respecting elders, helping society, and leading a disciplined life. Festivals and spiritual celebrations organized at the institute created an atmosphere filled with joy and devotion. For followers of Devotional india, these events reflected the beauty of Indian spirituality and culture.

Another unforgettable experience at the institute was participating in seva activities. Students were encouraged to help the needy, serve food, maintain cleanliness, and support social welfare programs. These acts of kindness taught them the true meaning of humanity and compassion. Service became a spiritual practice rather than an obligation. Many alumni still remember these activities as the most meaningful Golden Moments at Sri Sathya Sai Institute, because they helped them understand the value of giving without expecting anything in return.

The campus environment itself carried a sense of peace and positivity. Green surroundings, disciplined routines, and spiritual vibrations created an ideal place for learning and self-development. Students often found inspiration through simple daily interactions and moments of silence. Teachers guided students not only academically but also morally, helping them become responsible individuals. The institute became a second home where lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories were created. Such memories continue to shine brightly as Golden Moments at Sri Sathya Sai Institute for countless students and devotees.

Cultural programs and spiritual events also added beauty to campus life. Music, drama, and devotional performances were organized regularly to spread messages of love and unity. Students participated with great enthusiasm, expressing creativity while learning spiritual values. Festivals celebrated at the institute brought everyone together like one family. These celebrations reflected the traditions and spiritual richness associated with Devotional india, inspiring devotion and cultural pride among students.

Many visitors who came to the institute felt a deep sense of peace and positivity. They admired the discipline, simplicity, and devotion practiced by students and staff. The teachings of Shri Sathya Sai Baba encouraged everyone to lead a life based on truth and compassion. Visitors often carried these lessons back into their personal lives, creating positive changes within themselves. Such transformative experiences became precious Golden Moments at Sri Sathya Sai Institute that continued to inspire them long after leaving the campus.

The institute also focused strongly on character building. Education was considered incomplete without moral and spiritual growth. Students learned how to balance academic excellence with humility and kindness. The emphasis on values helped shape responsible citizens who contributed positively to society. Alumni often share stories of how the institute changed their outlook on life and gave them inner strength during difficult times. These life-changing experiences are treasured as Golden Moments at Sri Sathya Sai Institute that remain deeply connected to their hearts.

For devotees and students alike, the spiritual atmosphere of the institute created a deep connection with divine teachings. Every prayer, discourse, and service activity carried a message of love and unity. The lessons learned there extended beyond classrooms and became guiding principles for life. Through devotion, discipline, and service, the institute continues to inspire generations of seekers and learners. Even today, people connected with Devotional india remember the institute as a sacred place where education and spirituality beautifully merged.

The memories created within the institute continue to inspire countless people around the world. Whether through seva, prayers, friendships, or spiritual guidance, every experience carried a divine message. These unforgettable experiences truly define the essence of Golden Moments at Sri Sathya Sai Institute, reminding everyone that true education is the awakening of the heart, mind, and soul under the blessings of Shri Sathya Sai Baba.

-Living with God is True Education