NEW YORK CITY (TIP): In a historic and momentous ceremony held at City Hall on April 22, 2025, New York City Mayor Eric Adams officially issued a proclamation making April 24, 2025 (Thursday) as Sri Sathya Sai Baba Centennial Celebrations Day, honoring Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s universal love, peace and selfless service to humanity.

The proclamation was presented by Deputy Commissioner Mr Dilip Chauhan, in the presence of representatives from the Mayor’s Office and members of the Sri Sathya Sai Global Council.

As part of the ceremony, a written statement by Sri RJ Rathnakar, Managing Trustee of the Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust, was submitted, along with remarks from members of the Global Council and a special documentary by the Sri Sathya Sai Media Centre, Prasanthi Nilayam, was also screened. The film showcased Bhagawan’s global humanitarian initiatives and the transformational work of His devotees across the world.

The proclamation highlights and appreciates the tireless efforts of Sri Sathya Sai volunteers in the U.S., from serving food and distributing hygiene kits to educating youth through value-based programs. The Mayor also acknowledged the visionary leadership of the Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust and Sri Sathya Sai Global Council, including Mr RJ Rathnakar, Mr Nimish Pandya, Mr Sundar Swaminathan, Mr Kalyan Ray, Dr Axay Kalathia, Dr Balu Karanam, Dr Geetha J Kamath, Mrs Geetha Mohan Ram, Prof Koteswara Rao and Mr Sundar Venugopalan—along with every devoted volunteer embodying Swami’s eternal message: “Love All, Serve All – Help Ever, Hurt Never.”

Sundar Venugopalan from the Sri Sathya Sai Global Council Flushing, New York, who received the proclamation said Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s main teaching was that the essence of all religions is one, “urging us to see the divine spark within each and every creation.” He said that the Sri Sathya Sai Centers worldwide, including in New York, foster spiritual growth and community outreach. “This centennial year, we are committed to expanding our service to those in need right here in New York City.”

We offer our deepest gratitude to Bhagawan for this divine blessing. This recognition from New York City—one of the world’s most vibrant and diverse cities—beautifully echoes Bhagawan’s vision of global unity, service, and spiritual harmony.