by SSSIHL7 August 2025 Academic, News

Prof. Vishwanath Pandit Memorial Lecture 2025

Prof. S Mahendra Dev Delivers Inaugural Prof. Vishwanath Pandit Memorial Lecture on India’s Economic Future.

The Department of Humanities & Social Sciences, SSSIHL, organized the inaugural Prof. Vishwanath Pandit Memorial Lecture in honour of the late Prof. Vishwanath Pandit (1939–2024), an eminent economist and the 8^th Vice-Chancellor of SSSIHL. The event commemorated Prof. Pandit’s lasting contributions to Indian economics and the Institute, including the founding of its Department of Economics in 2001.

The Keynote

The keynote lecture was delivered by Prof. S Mahendra Dev, Chairman, Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, on the theme “Future of India: Growth, Inclusiveness and Sustainability.” His comprehensive address examined India’s post-independence economic journey, development goals for 2047, and critical priorities such as poverty reduction, employment generation, agricultural reform, and climate resilience. The lecture was followed by a vibrant Q&A session with students.

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The event began with an inaugural session, a welcome address by Prof. P L Rani, and reflections by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. B Raghavendra Prasad. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Raghavender Raju, expressing gratitude to Prof. Dev, the Pandit family, and all participants.

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The memorial lecture is envisioned to be an annual academic feature at SSSIHL, celebrating the legacy of Prof. Pandit and promoting dialogue on national economic progress and inclusive development.

Media for the Event

Detailed report of the event.

Additional photos of the event.

A video recording of the event.

by SSSIHL6 August 2025 Academic, Integral Education, News

Leadership Development Program: B E S T Leadership for Excellence – The Bharatiya Way

India Inc. is currently facing a severe shortage of competent leaders across various organizational levels. There is an urgent need to fill this leadership vacuum, especially in middle management levels as they are expected to take up larger leadership roles in the future. The one-day executive development program on ‘B E S T’ Leadership for Excellence – The Bharatiya Way, is conceived as powerful experiential learning package to cultivate effective leaders in corporates.

For Whom

The programme is designed for executives with around 5 years experience, who are keen to take larger leadership roles in their organisations.

Objective

The objective of the program is to build leadership capabilities in executives using the B E S T framework of leadership, based on Bharatiya Jnana Parampara – Indian Knowledge systems. Indian ethos has a rich tradition of leadership understanding and the B E S T framework represents the distilled wisdom of these insights.

Outcome

After going through the program, the participants will be able:

To assess their real leadership potential
To understand the importance of role model leadership
To appreciate how they perceive things
To comprehend the role of empathetic communication

Program details

The program is divided into four sections, each detailing an aspect of the B E S T leadership framework.

Session 1: To Be. In this session, participants will be able to assess their true leadership potential through an interesting exercise – KOHAM?
Session 2: To Exemplify. In this session, the importance of leadership based on role modelling will be understood through the game – ARTHASHASTRA.
Session 3: To See. In this session, participants will be able to understand the power of perception and to see clearly for leaders, through the activity – DRISHTI.
Session 4: To Tell. In this session, the need for proper communication for leadership will be understood through the exercise – VACHAS.

Interested in bringing this transformative program to your organization? Write to us at [email protected] and sign up for future sessions

Resource persons

Prof N Sivakumar is Dean and Professor of Management and Commerce at Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, Bangalore. With more than 3 decades of teaching and life skills training experience, he brings in a blend of modern management and Indian ethos, though his insightful research.
[email protected]
9448928884

Mr Rajeev Rajan is Assistant Professor of Management and Commerce at Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, Bangalore. With 15 years of teaching and training experience, he brings the power of blended learning to great impact
[email protected]
9972527130

by SSSIHL5 August 2025 Integral Education, News

Inauguration of Four New Facilities at the SSSIHL Brindavan Campus

With the Divine Blessings of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the Brindavan Campus of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (SSSIHL) witnessed the joyous inauguration of four new facilities on 5 August 2025. The event marked a significant milestone in the continued growth and enhancement of infrastructure to support the Institute’s mission of integral education—the harmonious blending of academic excellence and character development.

The new facilities were inaugurated by Sri R.J. Rathnakar, Managing Trustee, Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust (SSSCT), and Prof. B. Raghavendra Prasad, Vice-Chancellor, SSSIHL, in the Divine Presence and sanctified ambience of Bhagawan’s Brindavan Ashram.

Dining Hall, Brindavan Hostel, SSSIHL

A spacious Dining Hall capable of accommodating over 500 students was inaugurated, offering a serene, uplifting environment that serves not only as a place for meals but also as a Prayer-cum-Dining Hall—fostering both physical nourishment and spiritual enrichment.

The Warden, Dr. T. Ravi Kumar, reminisced about the sacred traditions that were initiated at the Brindavan Campus, such as the daily Brahmārpaṇam prayer and the chanting of the Sai Gayatri mantra before every meal—practices that invoke Bhagawan’s presence and elevate the act of eating into an offering.

Both Sri R.J. Rathnakar and Prof. B. Raghavendra Prasad fondly recalled the golden era of Divine proximity, highlighting the hall’s role as a tribute to Bhagawan’s vision of reverence in daily living. The facility stands as a symbol of love, grace, and sacred tradition, in alignment with the values cherished and nurtured by the Institute.

Seminar Hall, Brindavan Campus, SSSIHL

A state-of-the-art Seminar Hall with a seating capacity of 156 was inaugurated, built to serve as a vibrant centre for intellectual exchange and student engagement.

Equipped with a high-end interactive digital panel, advanced audio-visual systems, and ergonomic seating, the hall has been designed to support seminars, workshops, guest lectures, and a variety of academic events. The modern and aesthetically pleasing space reinforces SSSIHL’s ongoing commitment to delivering excellence in education and providing students with access to contemporary tools and platforms for learning and professional development.

Office of the Centre of Excellence in Actuarial Data Science (CADS)

In a significant academic advancement, the Office of the Centre of Excellence in Actuarial Data Science (CADS) at SSSIHL was formally inaugurated.

This Centre aims to position SSSIHL at the forefront of Actuarial Science education and research in India. The inauguration highlighted the Centre’s national and international accomplishments, including:

India’s first two PhDs in Actuarial Science awarded in 2021
CAS University Award 2022 – First Indian university recipient
CAS Gold-Level Recognition 2023 – Only university in Asia with this distinction
SOA UCAP Advanced Curriculum 2023 – Sole recipient in India

The Centre has produced over ten Fellows and Associates of international actuarial bodies like IFoA, CAS, SOA, and IAI, along with hundreds of students who have cleared multiple professional examinations.

Students have also made a mark globally, winning the IFoA and CAS Case Study Competitions 2024, demonstrating exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills. The Centre embodies SSSIHL’s drive towards academic innovation, research leadership, and global competitiveness rooted in values-based education.

Faculty Room for the Department of Management and Commerce

A newly designed 6-seater Faculty Room was inaugurated to serve the faculty members of the MBA programme.

Furnished with modern amenities and a professional yet comfortable setting, the new facility enhances the academic work environment and promotes collaborative teaching and research. The development reflects the Institute’s continued dedication to providing world-class infrastructure for faculty growth and academic excellence, thereby strengthening the overall teaching-learning ecosystem.

Conclusion

The inauguration of these facilities signifies a renewed commitment to Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s vision of holistic, values-based education. Each space has been created with attention to purpose, sanctity, and utility, serving as a nurturing ground for academic brilliance, moral strength, and spiritual refinement.

These developments not only enrich the physical infrastructure of the Brindavan Campus but also serve as living testaments to the Institute’s mission—to mould students into responsible, competent, and compassionate citizens who lead with love and serve with selflessness.

View Photos

by SSSIHL2 August 2025 Academic, News

2-Day Hands-On Workshop on ADI LTspice® and Pocket Lab – A Report

The Department of Physics successfully conducted a 2-Day Hands-On Workshop on ADI LTspice® and Pocket Lab on 11th and 12th July 2025, at the Prasanthi Nilayam Campus, in collaboration with Analog Devices (ADI) as the Knowledge Partner.

The workshop was aimed at equipping participants with practical skills in analog circuit simulation using ADI LTspice® and sensor interfacing with ADI Pocket Lab. It saw enthusiastic participation from across academia, drawing 74 registered participants comprising undergraduate and postgraduate students, research scholars, and faculty members from various institutions. The hands-on format and application-oriented sessions created a dynamic and engaging learning environment.

Highlights of the Workshop

The workshop featured expert-led sessions delivered by facilitators from Analog Devices, ensuring that the content was both technically sound and industry-relevant.

Day 1 was dedicated to LTspice® simulation techniques, where participants learned the fundamentals of circuit drafting, signal chain and frequency response analysis, as well as advanced simulation methods such as Monte Carlo analysis and the use of the LTPower Analyzer. These sessions laid a strong foundation for analog circuit modeling and analysis.

Day 2 transitioned into the domain of embedded systems using the ADI Pocket Lab platform, focusing on sensor interfacing and real-time data acquisition. Participants explored concepts such as ADC architecture, interpretation of datasheets, and practical implementation of experiments using multi-sensor boards. The sessions were thoughtfully designed to bridge theoretical concepts with practical skills in analog system design and embedded hardware applications.

The workshop also facilitated interactive learning through live demonstrations, guided experimentation, and one-on-one mentoring. It served as a platform to connect academic learners with cutting-edge tools and practices used in the industry, marking a significant step toward strengthening experiential learning and academia–industry collaboration at SSSIHL.

The feedback received from participants was overwhelmingly positive. Attendees appreciated the depth and clarity of the technical content, the seamless coordination of the sessions, and the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with industry-grade tools. Many participants highlighted that the workshop helped demystify complex topics through clear explanations and well-structured exercises.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the expert facilitators and delegates from Analog Devices for their wholehearted support:

Mr. Sivaramakrishnan S. – Director, Automotive Software Engineering, ADI
Mr. Krishna C Vishnubhatla – Senior Manager, Design Evaluation
Mr. Biswajit Mohanty – Technical Lead at Analog Devices
Mr. Kummari Saikumar – Senior Applications Engineer
Mr. Muley Harshal – Senior Applications Engineer
Mr. Srivastav Chetan – Applications Engineer
Mr. Shaikh Wasim – Product Applications Manager
Mr. Krishna Kumar Samruth – Hardware Design Engineer
Mr. Nambrath Vishnu – Product Application Engineer

The 2-Day Hands-On Workshop on ADI LTspice® and Pocket Lab effectively achieved its goal of offering practical exposure to analog simulation and sensor integration. It provided participants with a valuable opportunity to build competencies relevant to teaching, research, and engineering practice. The success of this workshop reflects the institute’s commitment to enhancing academic excellence through meaningful partnerships and hands-on learning initiatives.

by SSSIHL28 July 2025 News

A Disciple’s Tribute: Shri Nishikant Barodekar’s Global Musical Homage to Ustad Zakir Hussain

During the Summer Vacation of 2025, Shri Nishikant Barodekar, Assistant Professor in the Department of Performing Arts, Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, undertook an international Musical Homage Tour (14 May – 24 June 2025) in memory of his revered Guru, Ustad Zakir Hussain, whose sudden passing in December 2024 left an indelible void in the world of music.

A global icon, Ustad Zakir Hussain was celebrated for his unmatched mastery of the tabla, his deep contributions to Indian classical music, and his extraordinary ability to connect with audiences worldwide. In response to this loss, Shri Nishikant embarked on a deeply personal and spiritual journey to honour the memory and legacy of his Guru through music.

The Musical Homage Tour was conducted:

Across 5 countries—Singapore, the Philippines, the United States of America, Canada, and Trinidad & Tobago—over a period of 6 weeks (14 May – 24 June 2025)
Included 9 public concerts, 11 Satsang, and one comprehensive tabla workshop spanning 6 sessions.

The tour commenced in Singapore with a grand tribute concert on May 18, 2025, held at the One North Auditorium in Buona Vista. The event featured live performances by local artists, a powerful tabla solo by Shri Nishikant, and the screening of a short film capturing the life, art, and influence of Ustad Zakir Hussain. The concert was attended by around 350 people.

On the same day, a Satsang and musical offering were organised by the Singapore Sri Sathya Sai Centre, bringing together devotees in a spiritually charged atmosphere of bhajans and reflections.

In the United States, the first leg of the tour took Shri Nishikant to Austin, Texas, where a tribute concert was held on May 25, attended by approximately 100 guests. This was followed by a significant performance in Houston, Texas, on June 1, which drew a large gathering of nearly 400 people.

An additional event, titled Tabla & Beyond, was conducted on June 9 for a focused audience of scientists and doctors, introducing them to the therapeutic dimensions of rhythm and percussion. This session saw 80 participants engaging with the healing power of music through tabla.

The tour continued to Raleigh, North Carolina, where a tabla solo and an interview were held on June 16. This was followed by a satsang organised by the Raleigh Sri Sathya Sai Centre on June 17, with nearly 200 attendees. Both events allowed the audience to not only witness the artist’s technical brilliance but also to feel the devotional core that defined the tour.

The final leg of the tour brought Shri Nishikant to the Caribbean Islands, where a grand homage concert was conducted in Trinidad & Tobago on June 20, 2025. This event drew an audience of over 500 people and was one of the most impactful programs of the tour.

In recognition of the performance’s excellence and cultural depth, The Guardian (Trinidad and Tobago) published an article on 1 July 2025 titled “Tabla maestro headlines concert of Indian classical music”, highlighting Shri Nishikant’s role in bringing the rich legacy of Indian classical music to the Caribbean audience.

In addition to the concert, a 3-day tabla workshop was also held in Trinidad, comprising six intensive sessions. A total of 70 students participated, benefiting from Shri Nishikant’s rich experience and insights into both the technical and spiritual aspects of tabla.

In conclusion, the Musical Homage Tour was a journey of devotion, gratitude, and cultural outreach. It served not only as a tribute to a legendary Guru but also as a vehicle for sharing the timeless beauty of Indian classical music with diverse audiences across the globe. The tour stood as a testament to the deep bond between Guru and disciple, and to the power of music as a universal language of love, reverence, and transformation.

View Photos

by SSSIHL14 July 2025 Academic, Integral Education, News

Celebration of Universal Human Values – A Report

6–10 July 2025 | Prasanthi Nilayam

Organised by the Centre for Sri Sathya Sai Studies (CSSSS), SSSIHL, in association with the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations (SSSSO) under the aegis of the Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust (SSSCT).

Held as part of the Birth Centenary Year Celebrations of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, this five-day programme brought together over 2500 participants—students, youth, educators, administrators, and professionals. With a series of talks, panel discussions, cultural performances, and spiritual sessions, the celebration reinforced the relevance and practice of the five cardinal human values—Truth, Right Conduct, Peace, Love, and Non-violence—as the guiding force for individual, societal, and global transformation.

Days 1–3: Summer Course in Indian Culture and Human Values

Day 1: 6 July 2025

The inaugural session at the Poornachandra Auditorium commenced with auspicious Vedic chanting by students from the Anantapur Campus. Prof. B Raghavendra Prasad, Vice-Chancellor, SSSIHL, delivered the welcome address, followed by Dr. U Suma, Chairperson, Centre for Sri Sathya Sai Studies (CSSSS), who provided the contextual framework for the event. The inaugural address on Human Values in Leadership was delivered by Sri R J Rathnakar, Managing Trustee, Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust (SSSCT), setting the tone for the week ahead. The session concluded with a benedictory message featuring Divine excerpts from Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba.

The afternoon featured an interactive quiz on Bhagawan’s Life and Message, drawing enthusiastic participation from student teams. The evening session at Sai Kulwant Hall included Vedam chanting and devotional music as part of the Ashadi Ekadashi celebrations, infusing a deeply spiritual atmosphere. The day concluded with a reflective satsang/parayanam session, where students and youth shared life-transforming experiences with Bhagawan, anchoring the event in personal spiritual introspection.

Day 2: 7 July 2025

The second day began with Vedam chanting by students of the Nandigiri Campus, followed by a powerful address on Human Values in Governance by Sri Vijay Menon, renowned corporate trainer and leadership expert. His talk urged participants to embrace integrity, responsibility, and service in their professional and personal lives.

A panel discussion on Human Values for Sustainable Development was moderated by Dr. Subramanian S Iyer, Chairperson, Sri Sathya Sai Centre for Sustainable Development. The expert panel included Prof. Saurabh Amin (Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA), Prof. Sairam Bhat (National Law School of India University), Dr. Malathy Srinivasan (Innovation Lead, Pfizer), Sri Gunaranjan Turaga (Green Sense Sustainability), and Ms. Lakshmi Pranuti (Senior Community Outreach Associate, WELL Labs). The discussion explored the application of human values in environmental stewardship, law, industry, and grassroots action.

In the evening session at Sai Kulwant Hall, students from the Brindavan Campus presented a recap of the morning’s key points, followed by a profound talk on Human Values in Epics by Padmashree Nivedita Bhide, All India Vice President of Vivekananda Kendra. Her narrative drew from India’s spiritual epics to convey timeless lessons of dharma, devotion, and selflessness. The day ended with a vibrant cultural performance titled ‘Rama Katha’ by the Prasanthi Bhajan Group, followed by bhajans and a post-dinner satsang on the impact of Bhagawan’s life and teachings.

View Recording (Evening, 7 July)

Day 3: 8 July 2025

Day 3 was marked by themes of introspection and innovation. The morning began with Vedic chanting, followed by an inspiring session by Sri Sai Shravanam, acclaimed music producer and founder of Resound India. His talk on Human Values in Music illustrated how sound and rhythm, when guided by spiritual values, can uplift hearts and transform minds.

The next segment featured reflective student presentations on the theme “Why do Bharatiyas do what they do?”, which offered a cultural deep-dive into the rationale and values embedded in Indian traditions and rituals.

In the evening at Sai Kulwant Hall, Dr. (Prof.) U S Vishal Rao, a reputed surgical oncologist, delivered a deeply moving talk on Human Values in Health. His address highlighted the role of compassion, empathy, and ethics in medical practice and public health systems.

A key highlight was the unveiling of the Sri Sathya Sai Research & Innovation Foundation (SSSRIF) logo in the Divine Presence by Sri R J Rathnakar (Managing Trustee, SSSCT), Sri K Chakravarthi (Chancellor, SSSIHL), Prof. B Raghavendra Prasad (Vice-Chancellor, SSSIHL), Sri Pavan Kumar (CEO, SSSRIF), Sri Nimish Pandya (All India President, SSSSO), and other senior members of the Institute.

The day concluded with a cultural presentation titled “Edifice of Eternal Education” by the students of the Anantapur Campus, illustrating Bhagawan’s vision of holistic, values-based education, followed by devotional bhajans and Arati.

View Recording (Evening, 8 July)

Sri Sathya Sai Human Values Conference – The Clarion Call for Universal Transformation

Day 4: 9 July 2025

The fourth day featured the Sri Sathya Sai Human Values Conference, jointly organised by CSSSS, SSSIHL, and SSSSO, drawing together spiritual leaders, academicians, public administrators, and students.

The morning inaugural session at Sai Kulwant Hall began with Vedic chanting and ceremonial lamp lighting by dignitaries including Hon’ble Sri Haribhau Kishanrao Bagde, Governor of Rajasthan, and Dr. Bhagwat Karad, Member of Rajya Sabha. Dr. U Suma introduced the conference’s intent and relevance, followed by Sri Nimish Pandya, All India President, SSSSO, who called upon the youth to embody values in everyday life. Swami Sarvottamananda, Vice-Chancellor of Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute (RKMVERI), delivering the inaugural address, offered a deep Vedantic perspective, presenting love as the central unifying value. In his keynote address, Hon’ble Sri Haribhau Kishanrao Bagde, Governor of Rajasthan, spoke of Bhagawan’s legacy in reviving ancient educational ideals and demonstrating value-based governance through initiatives such as free healthcare and water supply.

The highlight of the session was the Unveiling of the Prasanthi Declaration on Universal Human Values, marking a collective commitment to universal transformation through values. The Declaration was unveiled by Hon’ble Sri Haribhau Kishanrao Bagde, Governor of Rajasthan, in the presence of Dr. Bhagwat Karad, Member, Rajya Sabha, Sri R J Rathnakar, Managing Trustee, SSSCT, Sri K Chakravarthi, Chancellor, SSSIHL, Prof. B Raghavendra Prasad, Vice-Chancellor, SSSIHL, Swami Sarvottamananda, Vice-Chancellor, RKMVERI, Sri Nimish Pandya, President, SSSSO – India, Sri I S N Prasad, Trustee, SSSCT, Sri S S Naganand, Trustee, SSSCT and Dr. U Suma, Chairperson, CSSSS, SSSIHL.

The post-lunch academic sessions at the Poornachandra Auditorium featured a series of scholarly and practical discourses:

Dr. Gururaj Karajagi, Chairman, Academy for Creative Teaching, spoke on modelling values through action.
Prof. Sudhakar Venukapalli, Dean, Chanakya University, highlighted the necessity of value integration in building a cohesive society.
Prof. Madhusudan J V, University of Hyderabad, elaborated on values in personal ethics and professional environments.
Sri Ritesh Kumar Singh, IAS, Principal Secretary of Finance, Government of Karnataka, offered insights into ethical governance.

The valedictory session featured a ceremonial procession of the Summer Course participants and a student-led summary of the day’s insights. In his closing address, Sri Nimish Pandya emphasised that values must not remain academic ideals but must become life’s guiding principles. The conference concluded with devotional singing and Arati, encapsulating a shared aspiration for a value-driven society.

View Recording (Morning, 9 July)
View Recording (Evening, 9 July)

Guru Poornima Celebrations

Day 5: 10 July 2025

On the sacred occasion of Guru Poornima, Prasanthi Nilayam was immersed in devotion and reverence for the Eternal Jagat Guru—Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba.

The morning session began with Vedam chanting and a moving Guru Vandana by the Prasanthi Bhajan Group, followed by a heartfelt welcome address by Sri S S Naganand, Trustee, SSSCT. Sri Nimish Pandya, All-India President, SSSSO, reflected on the essence of surrender and gratitude through the lives of Sant Tukaram and Lord Vitthala. A special highlight was the distribution of farm equipment to 100 farmers from Sri Sathya Sai District, by Sri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Hon’ble Union Minister of Rural Development, Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare, Government of India, symbolising Bhagawan’s commitment to rural upliftment. The Hon’ble Minister then shared his heartfelt reflections on his first visit to Prasanthi Nilayam. Sri Satya Kumar Yadav, Hon’ble Minister of Health, Family Welfare and Medical Education, Government of Andhra Pradesh, spoke on collaborative efforts in rural development. The session concluded with a Divine Discourse from Bhagawan and uplifting bhajans and Arati.

The evening featured a soulful devotional concert by renowned playback singer Sri Hariharan, whose heartfelt renditions elevated the spiritual atmosphere. The day concluded with bhajans and Mangala Arati, leaving the hearts of devotees filled with profound love, gratitude, and renewed spiritual inspiration.

View Recording (Morning, 10 July)
View Recording (Evening, 10 July)

Conclusion

The Celebration of Universal Human Values was not merely an academic event or cultural showcase, but a sacred collective sadhana to internalise and manifest Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s message of love and service. It reaffirmed that values are not to be studied in isolation but to be lived, practiced, and radiated. Whether through governance, education, music, healthcare, or rural development, the celebration demonstrated how universal human values remain the enduring foundation for individual excellence and societal harmony.

Additional Event Photos

by SSSIHL4 July 2025 Academic, News, Research, SSSRIF

Fostering Future Generations: Ghar Ghar Gurukul Enters SSSRIF Incubation

We are delighted to welcome G3 GenNext Pvt. Ltd., the parent company of Ghar Ghar Gurukul, into the incubation programme at the Sri Sathya Sai Research and Innovation Foundation (SSSRIF).

With the vision of transforming every home into a “Gurukul”—where learning begins from the womb—Ghar Ghar Gurukul seeks to empower parents as the first teachers and homes as the first schools. The startup offers tools and techniques grounded in love, discipline, and holistic development to nurture a generation of joyful, resilient, and purpose-driven individuals.

The formal agreement was signed on 28 June 2025 between Mrs. Chetna Ajay Bedia, Founder of Ghar Ghar Gurukul, and Prof. Budihal Raghavendra Prasad, Chairman & Director, SSSRIF and Vice-Chancellor, SSSIHL. The event was graced by the Hon’ble Chancellor Sri K Chakravarthi (IAS Retd.), Dr. Srikanth Khanna, Registrar of SSSIHL, and Mr. Pavan Kumar T. L., CEO, SSSRIF.

Through this incubation, the startup will benefit from:

Dedicated mentoring and guidance
Access to infrastructure and collaborative opportunities
Potential academic partnerships with SSSIHL faculty and research groups

Ghar Ghar Gurukul’s Core Vision:

Train couples to plan and welcome a mindful baby
Program the subconscious mind of the child from the womb
Guide parents in nurturing children for joyful, successful living

This collaboration aligns with SSSRIF’s mission to foster value-based innovations that blend the richness of Indian culture with modern science and technology to serve humanity.

We are excited to support and co-create this transformative journey.

Welcome aboard, Ghar Ghar Gurukul!

by SSSIHL3 July 2025 Academic, Integral Education, News

Celebration of Universal Human Values

6–10 July 2025 | Prasanthi Nilayam

As part of the Birth Centenary Year celebrations of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the Centre for Sri Sathya Sai Studies (CSSSS) at Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (SSSIHL), in association with the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, will conduct a series of events from 6-10 July 2025 at Prasanthi Nilayam, under the overarching theme of “Celebration of Universal Human Values.” The celebrations will comprise three interlinked segments:

6–8 July: Summer Course in Indian Culture and Human Values
9 July: Sri Sathya Sai Human Values Conference – The Clarion Call for Universal Transformation
10 July: Guru Poornima Celebrations

This special gathering will bring together over 2500 students and young adults from Sri Sathya Sai Educational Institutions, the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations and the Sri Sathya Sai Global Council.

Event Highlights

6–8 July | Summer Course in Indian Culture and Human Values

Designed to immerse young minds in the spiritual and cultural ethos of India, the Summer Course will feature talks by eminent speakers, interactive panel discussions, student-led reflective sessions, and cultural programmes. Topics will explore the application of human values across governance, leadership, sustainability, music, health, and more.

9 July | Sri Sathya Sai Human Values Conference – The Clarion Call for Universal Transformation

This one-day event will include presentations by distinguished thought leaders, educationists, and administrators, focusing on the role of universal human values in education, governance, social cohesion, and ethical conduct. A key highlight of the conference will be the unveiling of the Prasanthi Declaration on Universal Human Values, a collective reaffirmation of the need to integrate human values at the heart of global transformation efforts.

10 July | Guru Poornima Celebrations

The final day will be dedicated to honouring the timeless tradition of the Guru. With devotional offerings, spiritual reflections, and collective gratitude. The day will pay homage to Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the Divine Teacher and Eternal Guide.

A Legacy of Transformation

The Summer Course is one of the most cherished traditions at SSSIHL, dating back to the early years when Bhagawan Baba personally guided students, imparting the essence of righteousness, devotion, and selfless service. Today, it serves as an induction programme at the start of each academic year, introducing all students and young adults to Bharat’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

More than just a series of sessions, the Course represents a foundational experience in SSSIHL’s integral education model, nurturing the intellect, character, and spirit of every Sai student. Rooted in love, discipline, and self-reflection, the Summer Course continues to shape students into ideal citizens and torchbearers of universal human values.

Events Schedule

Click here to view a full programme of events.

by SSSIHL2 July 2025 Integral Education, News

SSSIHL Faculty Yoga Workshop

Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (SSSIHL) organized a comprehensive Faculty Yoga Workshop from 19 to 27 June 2025 at the Prasanthi Nilayam Campus. The 9-day workshop was curated for faculty members from various campuses of the Institute, offering both theoretical insights and practical experience in Yoga. The workshop promoted holistic well-being and reinforcing the integral education model that combines the body, mind, and spirit.

A total of 27 participants took part in the 27 sessions (36 hours) conducted over 9 days. The workshop saw enthusiastic participation from Physical Education Directors across all SSSIHL campuses, Physical Education teachers from Sri Sathya Sai Schools, and teaching and non-teaching staff from SSSIHL and Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust (SSSCT).

The workshop was structured into three daily segments:

Morning Session (6:00 – 7:30 AM)

The morning session focused on practical training through – traditional Hatha Yoga asanas, Surya Namaskara variations, Pranayama (Nadi Shuddhi, Kapalabhati, Bhramari) and Yoga Nidra and guided relaxation.

Evening session (5:00 – 6:30 PM)

The evening session saw a total of 18 interactive sessions, including, lecture-demonstrations, hands-on workshops and expert talks covering:

Yogic Anatomy & Physiology
Yoga Philosophy: Patanjali Yoga Sutras & Bhagavad Gita Insights
Yoga for Sports Performance & Muscle Recovery
Asana Alignment and Common Corrections
Mental Wellness & Stress Management through Yoga
Nutrition & Lifestyle for Yogic Practice
Designing Yoga Modules for Institutions
Role of Yoga in Preventing Lifestyle Disorders
Special Talk: Yoga & Spirituality- Commemorating International Day of Yoga (21 June)
Yoga for Flexibility & Core Strength
Yoga for Recovery & Rehabilitation
Developing Age-Appropriate Yoga Routines
Integrating Yoga into the Physical Education Curriculum
Teaching Methodology & Demonstration Practice
Yoga Games & Group Activities
Assessment Tools for Monitoring Progress
Personalizing Yoga Plans for Students & Faculty
Group Preparation for Yoga Day Demonstration

Final session (8:00 – 8:45 PM)

The final session included daily guided meditation, reflective journaling, and group sharing, with practices such as: Trataka, Omkara Chanting and Mindful Silence.

Special Highlights

International Day of Yoga – 21 June 2025

A special commemorative session was held in Prasanthi Nilayam on 21 June to mark the International Day of Yoga, which included a joint Yoga demonstration and practice.

Valedictory Ceremony – 27 June 2025

The closing ceremony on 27 June featured group reflection and sharing, feedback and learnings, followed by a Valedictory Address by Yogathilakam Prof. Dr. Meena Ramanathan, Professor of Yoga Therapy and Principal, School of Yoga Therapy, ISCM, SBV, Pondicherry on the topic “Salutogenesis and Spirituality” and distribution of certificates to all participants.

Key Outcomes

Holistic Well-being: Renewed sense of balance, clarity, and vitality
Pedagogical Impact: Enhanced readiness to integrate yoga into curricula
Spiritual Enrichment: Deepened experiential understanding of yoga’s spiritual dimension

Resource Persons

The sessions were conducted by experienced yoga practitioners and academicians specializing in Yoga philosophy, including: Prof. Dr. Meena Ramanathan, Sri Vadivu krishna S, Dr. Naveen kumar G, Sri Vivekananda SS, Sri Narayana Reddy P, Dr. Gopi Krishna M, Sree Swathee M, Sri Rajendra Prasad, Sri Rahul Batra, and Sri Satya Sai Mudigonda.

A special note of appreciation to Sri Satya Sai Mudigonda, who served as the Workshop Coordinator, ensuring the smooth and impactful execution of all sessions

Conclusion

The Faculty Yoga Workshop served as a transformative journey for all involved—strengthening personal practice, professional skills, and the shared resolve to uphold the values of integrative, spiritually grounded education at SSSIHL.

Photographs

Click here to see additional photos of the workshop.

by SSSIHL26 June 2025 Academic, News, Uncategorized

Gen AI in Education and Administration

A workshop on “Generative AI in Education and Administration – Concepts and Practice” was conducted on 21st June 2025 at the Prasanthi Nilayam Campus. Organised by the IQAC team of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (SSSIHL), the initiative aimed to introduce the transformative potential of Generative AI (Gen AI) to non-teaching staff from various campuses of SSSIHL, hospitals, and allied trust organisations. Around 100 participants enthusiastically took part in this full-day programme.

Opening Session

The workshop commenced with a soulful Vedam chanting by members from different campuses, setting a spiritual ambience.

Dr. S Balasubramanian, Coordinator, IQAC, delivered the Welcome Address, highlighting the relevance of AI tools in today’s educational and administrative landscapes.
Sri P Balaganesan, Deputy Manager (Finance), SSSIHL, introduced the guest speakers and outlined the objectives of the workshop.

Morning Session: Exploring the Concepts and Ethics of Gen AI

The morning session was led by Sri Rajesh Dhuddu, Partner – Emerging Technologies, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), SSSIHL Alumnus and Gold Medallist, who inspired the audience to reflect on the deeper dimensions of technology. Sri Dhuddu delivered a comprehensive introduction to Generative AI, its capabilities, and its implications in modern professional environments.

Key Concepts Covered:

The fundamental difference between Artificial Intelligence and Generative AI
Core features of Gen AI and how these tools function
Overview of popular Gen AI platforms including ChatGPT, Gemini, Notion, and Jasper
Understanding the data sources and mechanisms that power these tools

Responsible Use and Ethical Guidelines:

Exercise discretion and critical thinking when interpreting AI-generated content
Refrain from sharing confidential or sensitive information
Use clear and effective prompts for optimal outputs
Uphold ethical standards and institutional values while using AI tools

Practical Applications in Daily Workflows:

Idea generation and brainstorming support
Creative writing and user interaction
Producing contextual and relevant responses
Image creation for presentations and reports
Supporting validation and refinement of ideas

The session concluded with a highly engaging Q&A and open discussion. Participants raised thoughtful queries on how Gen AI could be meaningfully applied in their specific domains such as:

Healthcare and medical documentation
Accounting and financial processes
Ethical, administrative, and social implications of AI usage

Afternoon Session: Practical Applications and Hands-on Training

The post-lunch session focused on practical engagement with Gen AI tools and was facilitated by Sri Sanket Waykar, Manager – Emerging Technologies, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC).
The session began with the honouring of guest speakers by Prof. B Raghavendra Prasad, Vice-Chancellor, SSSIHL, in a gesture of appreciation for their contributions and continued support to the Institute.
Participants reconvened at the Computer Centre, where they explored the practical use of Gen AI tools through a series of interactive exercises designed to replicate real-world administrative scenarios.

Hands-on Activities Included:

Drafting professional emails using Gen AI suggestions
Enhancing productivity through AI-powered Excel functionalities
Designing logos and visuals using generative design platforms

Participants responded with great enthusiasm, actively experimenting with the tools and showcasing outputs that reflected creativity, functionality, and purpose-driven application of technology.

Conclusion

The workshop concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. A S Vishwanathan, Deputy Coordinator, IQAC. The feedback received from participants was overwhelmingly positive and insightful.

The workshop successfully demystified Generative AI for the non-teaching staff of SSSIHL and its sister organisations. It not only introduced the fundamental concepts and tools but also provided meaningful practical exposure. Participants left with a clear sense of how Gen AI can assist in ideation, communication, and operational efficiency—anchored in ethical usage and value-based practices.