New York City Proclaims Apr 24 as Sri Sathya Sai Baba Centennial Celebrations Day

A significant ceremony unfolded at New York City Hall today as the city officially declared April 24th, 2025, as Sri Sathya Sai Baba Centennial Celebration Day. This special proclamation, presented during the centennial birth year of the globally revered spiritual leader and humanitarian, recognizes his enduring impact through universal love, peace, and selfless service. The event marked a rare and profound occasion within the halls of New York City’s government.

Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan, representing Mayor Eric Adams, bestowed the official proclamation upon representatives of the Sri Sathya Sai Global Council. While Deputy Commissioner Chauhan and Mr. Sundar Venugopalan of the Sri Sathya Sai Global Council, New York, spoke at the event, Mr. R.J. Rathnakar, Managing Trustee of the Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust, conveyed his profound appreciation to New York City for honoring the Centennial Year of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba through this gracious proclamation.

Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan conveyed Mayor Adams’ warm welcome and highlighted New York City’s diverse population and its embrace of various faiths. Setting the stage for the historic nature of the event in this iconic city, Deputy Commissioner Chauhan stated, “New York City is home to 8.5 million people; it is not just a cultural capital – we are the 9th largest economy in the world, and last year alone, we welcomed over 63 million tourists. Our city’s greatest strength lies in its diversity.” He lauded the Sri Sathya Sai volunteers for their unwavering commitment to selfless service, providing aid, education, and support during crises.

“Wherever there is a need for selfless service, you will find Sri Sathya Sai volunteers,” Deputy Commissioner Chauhan stated, acknowledging the leadership of the Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust and Global Council, as well as the dedication of individual devotees. He emphasized the historical significance of honoring Sri Sathya Sai Baba at City Hall, noting the profound humanitarian impact of his mission, which has touched countless lives in New York and globally. Deputy Commissioner Chauhan concluded by urging everyone to reflect on Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s timeless message of “Love All, Serve All. Help Ever, Hurt Never,” hoping it would inspire a more compassionate and inclusive New York City. He also acknowledged the visionary leadership of the Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust and Sri Sathya Sai Global Council, including Mr. R.J. 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. Chauhan also appreciated to word of recognition to all the Women leaders and volunteers who are leading mammoth service prjects in the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organization through the Women’s wing and Sri Sathya Sai Mahila Vibhag.

Mr. Sundar Venugopalan delivered remarks, bringing “heartfelt greetings from the spiritual capital of the world, Prasanthi Nilayam, Puttaparthi, to the financial capital of the world, New York City.” He underscored Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s embodiment of selfless love that transcends all boundaries and affirmed the commitment of Sri Sathya Sai Centers, including those in New York, to expanding community service during this centennial year.

In his statement, Mr. R.J. Rathnakar expressed gratitude to Mayor Eric Adams and Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan and Pastor Gilford Monrose “for this extraordinary gesture of recognizing the timeless message of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba through this Centennial Proclamation on the grand occasion of Swami’s Centenary Year Birthday Celebrations.” He acknowledged the honor bestowed by New York City Mayor Eric Adams on behalf of millions of practitioners worldwide, stating, “His life was His message.” He added, “This recognition by New York City – one of the world’s most vibrant and diverse cities – resonates deeply with Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s vision of global harmony and spiritual fellowship,” expressing hope that this gesture would inspire millions toward a life of selfless service, unity, and righteousness.

The ceremony also included the screening of a short video produced by the Sri Sathya Sai Media Centre, showcasing the extensive humanitarian endeavors of Sri Sathya Sai Baba and his followers worldwide. This event at New York City Hall stands as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of a spiritual leader whose message of love uplifts humanity across the globe. Mr. R.J. Rathnakar and Mr. Nimish Pandya extended an invitation to the Mayor’s office to visit Prashanti Nilayam.