Laos - A Blessed Centennial Celebration of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba in Laos, Organized by SSSGC Laos at the Sri Sathya Sai School, Vientiane

Puvaneswari Narayanasamy
16 minutes ago
2 min read

The Sri Sathya Sai School in Laos witnessed an outpouring of devotion, unity and service as more than 5,000 devotees, well-wishers and members of the public gathered on Sunday to celebrate the 100th Birthday of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. Organised by the Sri Sathya Sai Global Council (SSSGC) Laos, the day-long programme beautifully blended sacred prayer, selfless service and vibrant cultural performances, reflecting the universal values Swami stood for: Love, Service, and Unity of Faiths.

Morning : A Sacred Beginning

The celebrations began at dawn with prayers offered by 101 Buddhist monks, invoking blessings for peace and harmony. Among them was Venerable Khamhoung Toulavanh, a revered figure who holds the rare honour of having addressed Swami’s devotees twice in the holy Kulwant Hall in Prasanthi Nilayam. His presence brought deep spiritual significance to the morning proceedings.

Following the prayers, nearly 2,000 devotees and members of the public participated in the traditional offering of alms to the Buddhist monks, symbolizing humility, gratitude and the Laotian tradition of merit-making.

Inauguration of the Prema Building

A major highlight of the morning was the inauguration of the newly constructed Prema Building, another milestone in the school’s continued expansion to serve the children of Laos. The inauguration was jointly officiated by:

• The Hon. Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office, Government of Lao PDR

• The Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of India to Lao PDR

Their presence underscored the strong partnership between the Lao government, the Indian community, and the Sri Sathya Sai institutions in promoting education rooted in values, compassion and service.

Service in Action : Blood Donation Drive

In the spirit of Swami’s teaching, “Hands that help are holier than lips that pray,” the celebrations also marked the commencement of a day-long blood donation campaign organised in collaboration with the Lao Red Cross. Devotees, volunteers, teachers, alumni and parents came forward wholeheartedly, reinforcing the essence of selfless service.

Evening : Cultural Harmony and Unity

As dusk settled, the campus blossomed into a vibrant evening of music, dance and cultural expression. With over 3,000 people in attendance, the programme featured performances by students, youth groups and community artists, celebrating both the cultural richness of Lao PDR and the universal message of Bhagawan.

The ceremony was graced by:

• Her Excellency the Ambassador of Cuba to Lao PDR

• The Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of India to Lao PDR

Their presence highlighted the global message of peace, unity and human values cherished by Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba.

A Day of Devotion, Service and Global Oneness

From the early morning prayers to the lively evening cultural performances, the centenary celebration radiated love, discipline and devotion, hallmarks of Bhagawan’s teachings. The strong participation from local communities, international dignitaries and Sai devotees reaffirmed the Sri Sathya Sai School in Laos as a centre of value-based education and loving service.

As the celebrations concluded, one sentiment echoed among all :Bhagawan’s message of Love All, Serve All continues to shine ever brighter, uniting hearts across nations, cultures and faiths.