The birth centenary celebrations of spiritual leader Sri Sathya Sai Baba in Puttaparthi drew a host of national dignitaries and celebrities on Wednesday, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.
The former Miss World, who attended the event in a yellow ethnic ensemble, shared the stage with the Prime Minister, former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, and Union Ministers Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu and G. Kishan Reddy, among others.
Aishwarya’s Powerful Message on Unity
During her address, the 52-year-old actress delivered a moving speech that focused on themes of unity, compassion, and the teachings of the revered spiritual leader. Her words, emphasizing the common thread connecting all people, were met with widespread applause from the audience.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan: “There is only one caste, the caste of humanity. There is only one religion, the religion of love. There is only one language, the language of the heart, and there is only one God, and he is omnipresent.”
The message strongly echoed Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s philosophy of universal love and selfless service, which inspired millions globally.
A Gesture of Respect to the Prime Minister
A moment of high regard occurred after the actress completed her address. Before exiting the stage, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was seen respectfully touching the feet of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was seated among the dignitaries.
PM Modi accepted the gesture by placing his hand on her head in a blessing, and then joined hands with her, acknowledging the actress’s gesture of respect. Bachchan also expressed her gratitude and anticipation for the Prime Minister’s speech.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan: “I extend a heartfelt thank to PM Narendra Modi ji, for being with us here today and for honouring this special occasion. I’m looking forward to listening to your wise words, impactful and inspiring as always…”
The Prime Minister later offered his obeisance at the ‘Mahasamadhi’ of Sri Sathya Sai Baba and addressed the gathering, during which he also released a commemorative coin and a set of stamps honoring the spiritual leader’s life and legacy.