The sacred town of Puttaparthi in Andhra Pradesh’s Sri Sathya Sai district transformed into a sea of devotion and splendor as the Sri Sathya Sai Baba 100th birth anniversary celebrations kicked off on November 18, 2025. Thousands of devotees from across India and abroad gathered at Prasanthi Nilayam to witness the historic inauguration of the Sri Sathya Sai Rathotsavam, featuring a magnificent silver chariot adorned with gold and carrying a stunning utsav idol crafted from 9.2 kilograms of pure gold. This marks a new chapter in the spiritual legacy of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, whose teachings on love, service, and universal harmony continue to inspire millions worldwide.
As the Sathya Sai Baba centenary year reaches its pinnacle ahead of his actual birth date on November 23, 2025, the events blend ancient Vedic traditions with modern expressions of faith. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to grace the occasion on November 19, joined by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and other dignitaries, highlighting the national significance of this milestone.
The Historic Launch of Sri Sathya Sai Rathotsavam in Puttaparthi
For decades, Prasanthi Nilayam has hosted the traditional Venugopala Swami Rathotsavam as part of annual festivities. However, in a groundbreaking move for the Sri Sathya Sai Baba birth centenary 2025, organizers introduced the Sri Sathya Sai Rathotsavam – the first-ever chariot procession dedicated exclusively to Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba.
The centerpiece was a towering 31.8-foot silver chariot, meticulously crafted using 180 kilograms of silver and plated with approximately 1 kilogram of gold for exquisite finishing. At its heart sat the sacred utsav murti (processional idol) of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, resplendent in 9.2 kg of gold, symbolizing divine opulence and the boundless love Baba showered on humanity.
The procession commenced amid the resonant chanting of Vedic hymns and the heartfelt “Sai Ram” bhajans from thousands of devotees. Led by Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust Managing Trustee R.J. Rathnakar and revered Vedic scholars, the idols of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, Lord Venugopala Swami, Sita-Rama-Lakshmana-Hanuman were brought from Sai Kulwant Hall with profound reverence. Special pujas sanctified the idols before they were enthroned on the chariot.
As the massive silver rath rolled through the streets of Puttaparthi, devotees experienced waves Eof ecstasy. Many wept in joy, catching glimpses (darshan) of their beloved Swami in this golden form. The atmosphere pulsed with energy – floral decorations, rhythmic drum beats, and the fragrance of incense created a divine spectacle that words can scarcely capture.
Former Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu, along with Andhra Pradesh ministers including Anagani Satya Prasad, Savita, and Satya Kumar Yadav, MLAs Paritala Sunitha and Palle Sindhura Reddy, former minister Palle Raghunatha Reddy, actor Murali Mohan, and senior officials participated actively, underscoring the event’s cross-sectional appeal.
Morning Rituals: Vedic Chants and Mass Satyanarayana Vratham
The day dawned with soul-stirring Vedic recitations that set a serene tone for the Sathya Sai Baba centenary events. Over 1,100 couples performed the Maha Satyanarayana Vratham at Baba’s Mahasamadhi site, praying for world peace and universal welfare – core tenets of Baba’s philosophy.
This collective vratham embodied Baba’s message: “Help Ever, Hurt Never.” Devotees believe such acts amplify positive vibrations, fostering global harmony in an era often marked by division.
In the evening, the celebrations continued with the enchanting Teppotsavam (boat festival), where illuminated idols floated gracefully, captivating hearts under the starlit sky.
Who is Sri Sathya Sai Baba? A Timeless Spiritual Icon
Born on November 23, 1926, in the tiny village of Puttaparthi, Ratnakaram Sathyanarayana Raju declared his divinity at age 14, proclaiming himself the reincarnation of Shirdi Sai Baba. Adopting the name Sri Sathya Sai Baba, he dedicated his life to uplifting humanity through five core values: Sathya (Truth), Dharma (Righteousness), Shanti (Peace), Prema (Love), and Ahimsa (Non-violence).
Baba’s miracles – from materializing vibhuti to healing the sick – drew global followers, but his true legacy lies in selfless service. He established:
- Free super-specialty hospitals providing world-class healthcare to the poor.
- Educational institutions emphasizing value-based learning, including the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning.
- Massive water projects that quenched the thirst of millions in drought-prone regions, like the Sri Sathya Sai Drinking Water Supply Project in Andhra Pradesh and beyond.
Even after his Mahasamadhi in 2011, Prasanthi Nilayam remains a beacon of spirituality, attracting seekers year-round. The Sathya Sai Baba 100th birthday celebrations honor not just a person, but a movement of love and service that transcends religion, caste, and nationality.
PM Narendra Modi’s Visit to Puttaparthi: Schedule and Significance on November 19, 2025
Anticipation peaks as Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Puttaparthi on November 19, coinciding with Ladies’ Day – a tradition Baba established to honor the divine feminine.
Detailed Schedule for PM Modi’s Puttaparthi Visit:
- 9:45 AM: Arrival at Sri Sathya Sai Airport, Puttaparthi.
- 10:00 AM: Road journey to Prasanthi Nilayam; pays homage at Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s Mahasamadhi.
- 10:30 AM: Attends the centenary program at Hill View Stadium as chief guest; delivers a keynote address.
- Releases a special ₹100 commemorative coin and a set of postage stamps immortalizing Baba’s life and teachings.
- 12:20 PM onwards: Departs for Coimbatore via special aircraft.
PM Modi has shared a deep personal connection with Baba. In a recent X post, he reminisced: “I had the privilege of conversing with him and learning from his wisdom on multiple occasions.” He described Baba’s efforts in social service and spiritual awakening as “a guiding light for generations.”
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, already in Puttaparthi, will welcome the Prime Minister. Other prominent attendees include Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan (arriving late night), former Chief Justice N.V. Ramana, cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, and Justice N.V. Ramana.
Security arrangements are airtight, supervised personally by DGP Harish Kumar Gupta, ensuring a smooth experience for all.
Dignitaries and Global Devotees Converge for Sathya Sai Baba Centenary
The Sri Sathya Sai Baba centenary in Prasanthi Nilayam has drawn an extraordinary lineup:
- President Droupadi Murmu (November 22)
- Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan (November 22-23)
- Multiple Chief Ministers and union ministers
Devotees from over 100 countries have flocked to Puttaparthi, with special trains, enhanced bus services, and temporary facilities accommodating the surge. The Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust, in collaboration with state authorities, has left no stone unturned – from sanitation to crowd management.
Why the Sathya Sai Baba 100th Birth Anniversary Matters in 2025
In a world grappling with materialism and conflict, Baba’s centenary reminds us of timeless truths. His mantra – “Love All, Serve All” – inspired initiatives like free education, healthcare, and disaster relief that continue through the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organizations.
The introduction of the golden-adorned Rathotsavam symbolizes renewal: just as Baba transformed a remote village into a global spiritual hub, his teachings urge us to transform our hearts.
As Puttaparthi basks in divine bliss, the message echoes loud and clear: Service to man is service to God.
Looking Ahead: Culmination on November 23, 2025
The grand finale awaits on Baba’s 100th birthday – November 23 – with cultural programs, discourses, and the presence of world leaders. Until then, events like daily bhajans, the 11th World Conference, and youth programs will keep the spiritual momentum alive.
Whether you are a lifelong devotee or someone seeking inner peace, the Sri Sathya Sai Baba centenary celebrations in Puttaparthi offer a rare opportunity to immerse in pure love and devotion.
For live updates, accommodation details, or volunteer opportunities, visit the official Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust website or Prasanthi Nilayam portals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the weight of the gold idol used in the Satya Sai Centenary? The ceremonial idol of Satya Sai Baba is made of 9.2 kilograms of gold.
Who is the Chief Guest for the Satya Sai Centenary Celebrations? Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the Chief Guest and will release a commemorative coin.
Which celebrities attended the event in Puttaparthi? Prominent attendees include Sachin Tendulkar, Aishwarya Rai, Chandrababu Naidu, Pawan Kalyan, and Venkaiah Naidu.
What is the significance of the silver chariot? The silver chariot stands 31.8 feet tall and contains 180 kilograms of silver. It was used to parade the gold idol through the town.
What security measures are in place for PM Modi’s visit to Puttaparthi? DGP Harish Kumar Gupta is overseeing a massive security deployment, transforming the town into a high-security zone for the Prime Minister’s arrival.
Jai Sai Ram!