Silchar: The 100th birth anniversary of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, revered worldwide as a spiritual figure and messenger of universal human values, was celebrated with great devotion on Sunday at the Sri Sathya Sai Baba Temple premises on Circuit House Road in Silchar. The day-long observance was marked by religious rituals, devotional singing, service activities and humanitarian programmes, all reaffirming his teaching that service to humanity is service to God.

The programme began at 4:45 in the morning with Omkaram, Suprabhatam and Nagar Sankirtan. From 10 am, devotees took part in the collective chanting of Ashtottara Shatanama, followed by Lakshyamatra and Bal Vikas bhajans. Throughout the day, the temple hosted guest reception, the Annapurna Amrit Kalasham, Narayan Seva and distribution of Mahaprasad. Children of the Bal Vikas group presented a spiritual cultural programme as well.

A highlight of the centenary celebration was the lighting of 100 lamps, a symbolic gesture that created a serene and contemplative atmosphere among the devotees.

Committee members noted that Sri Sathya Sai Baba preached harmony among all religions and believed in the oneness of God. He was revered by both Hindu and Muslim devotees and inspired a universal philosophy rooted in brotherhood, mutual respect and service to humanity.

A message from the President of India stated that the sacrifice and selfless love embodied by Sri Sathya Sai Baba remain a source of inspiration for humanitarian service. His followers across the world continue to work for the welfare of the poor and the deprived.

The temple committee has announced that a large blood donation camp will be held next Sunday at 10:30 am on the temple premises. Devotees and willing donors have been urged to participate and encourage others as well.

Among those present at the celebration were social worker Uday Shankar Chakraborty, Rupendra Mohan Das, several local dignitaries and a large number of devotees.