As is the delightful custom in Puttaparthy for all festivals, Ashadi Ekadashi too was celebrated in a grand manner. Of course, when one spends any auspicious occasion with the Lord of the Universe, words fall short to explain the boundless ecstasy that suffuses every heart! The pristine ambience of the Sai Kulwant Hall was enhanced with tasteful decorations of orchids and banners highlighting the significance of the Great Mantra..

First, the Varkaris presented to Swami, the Palkhi which they had been carrying during the Dindi Yatra, to the accompaniment of a spirited dance done by the Bal Vikas children. Swami showered His Grace on them, giving them the assurance that their penance had been accepted.

Next, the Bal Vikas students of Maharashtra and Goa presented a majestic ballet entitled Gayatri – Veda Mata. The drama glorified the importance of the Gayatri Mantra in this Kali Yuga. Gayatri, which is addressed to the Sun God, is the mother of all mantras. This all-pervading mantra dispels darkness and grants enlightenment to the entire mankind.

It is said that when the Gayatri Mantra is recited with the correct nuances, the whole atmosphere becomes illumined. The packed Sai Kulwant Hall witnessed this phenomenon today when Bhagawan, who is Gayatri personified, graced the ladies enclosure with His Darshan, not just once but thrice! Delighting the entire assembly in a beautiful manifestation of Love, Swami accepted the Aarthi twice!