Saturday, April 30, 2011

Puttaparthi Saibaba

The holy abode of the legendary figure, Saythya Sai Baba, Puttaparthi is a stunning edifice of contemporary Indian Religion. A tiny locale in the Indian Sate of Andhra Pradesh, Puttaparthi has gained global acclamation as a centre of religious excellence. This remote village on the banks of the Chitravathi River is bounded by the scorched and wobbly hills. Though this tiny village does not offer any of the splendorous vistas of nature, it has acclaimed as a much desired tourist place of religious significance after the establishment of Prasanthi Nilayam, in 1950. In fact, the most remarkable attraction in this sleepy village is the Ashram complex that houses a multitude of alluring attractions. It makes every visitor astonished that in this isolated village there is everything that a metro can provide.

Puttaparthi was formerly known as Gollapalli, which means the home of cowherds. The history of Puttaparthi revolves round Sai Baba. In fact for the outside world Puttaparthi means Sai Baba himself. It is the presence of this saintly man makes this small hamlet to a thriving and vibrant city with most modern amenities. This village now houses all the infrastructure of a sophisticated town such as Airport, Railway Station, Super Specialty Hospital and an array of educational institutions. 


From his childhood days, Sathya Narayana was quite an unusual child and it is said that he had shown extraordinary qualities from his early days. By the advent of time, this boy transformed in to a spiritual figure who commands staunch followers across the whole world. His disciples are spotted nearly in all the continents, more precisely in 98 countries who regarded him as the incarnation of God. Though this man captures multitudes of skeptics, with his unbelievable power with restorative abilities, Sai Baba is the living God of millions of his devotees.

Sai Baba is widely appraised for his noble ideology of universal religion. His teachings are basically footed on the principles of truth peace righteousness love and non-violence. Sathya Sai Baba is believed to be the re-incarnation of Sai Baba of Shirdi.

A drastic change of Puttaparthi from a remote hamlet to a most modern township presents a saga of wonderful transition. It is quite sure that a visit to Puttaparthi would be a treasure trove not only for the ardent devotees but also for a vagabond since this village towers all other religious destinations in every way.

History


Puttaparthi, is a religious town in Andhra Pradesh and is an important pilgrim destinations for the followers of Sai Baba. Puttaparthi, was earlier known as ‘Gollapalli’ and its historical importance revolves around the birth as well as life of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. History has it that Satyanarayana Raju was born on 23rd of November, 1926, to a couple named Sri Pedda Venkappa and Srimati Eeswaramma.

Various childhood incidences (for example he was laughing after his birth, being accompanied by a snake in infancy and many such other), made people believe him to be a reincarnation of Shirdi’s Sai Baba. His extraordinary skills at a tender age made people follow him and he became a spiritual leader, an embodiment of peace, righteousness and non violence.

Today, he is known for his virtuous ideologies and lover of all religion. Millions of tourists flock here to get the ‘Darshan’ (view) of the great saint and to listen to his devout teachings.

Travel within city


The holy city of Puttaparthi has a lot of options when it comes to traveling around the city. The city of Puttaparthi is mainly famous because it’s the abode of the Sai Baba. The various modes of inner city transport available in Puttaparthi are buses and taxis. Puttaparthi is essentially a very small city, and opting for any one among these modes can help you reach your destination easily.

Bus


Buses in Puttaparthi are controlled by the state and run to all the important locations in the city. You can opt for bus travel, as the fares are cheap and range around Rs 3 to 6. You have to ask for some help from the locals on where you should disembark, in case you do not know the general layout of the city.

Taxi


Opting for a taxi can be an easier mode of travel, though expensive. Taxis in Puttaparthi do not run on meter, however, the rates are quite fair and not too exorbitant. Taxi charges will range around Rs 15 per kilometer, and by taking up a taxi you travel around the city in minutes. Puttaparthi is a safe city, and any mode of transport can be preferred. There are no special night fares for travel.

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