Everlasting Devotion: A Bridge Across Time
“Love for God must be manifested as Love for man, and Love must express itself as service.” Sathya Sai Speaks, Vol. 13, Ch. 19
In the celestial symphony of devotion echoing from the alumni of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, each note resonates the expression of timeless connection with our Swami. ‘A Bridge Across Time’ is the story of the spiritual journey of the musicians amongst the alumni – a journey that has constantly evolved over the years to make their musical offering their very best to our Bhagawan.
Unveiling Spiritual Melodies
The genesis of ‘A Bridge Across Time’ unfolded as a heartfelt offering at Swami’s Lotus Feet. What began as a humble bouquet of Bhajans has transformed into a melodic odyssey capturing the metamorphosis of devotional outpourings across the alumni community. The journey through 31 volumes, with a brief hiatus due to the global pandemic, exemplifies the enduring commitment and unwavering love of the alumni for their beloved Swami.
From Humble Beginnings to Musical Spectacles
“Today, man aspires for God and contemplates on Him constantly, but mere aspiration and contemplation are not enough to experience God. God is not pleased by contemplation alone; one has to totally offer oneself to experience Him. Once you offer yourself completely to God, you and He become one.” Sathya Sai Speaks, Vol. 31
The evolution of this divine album, from its inception in 2003 to the present day, mirrors the advancements in instrumentation, recording technology and the sheer professionalism of the alumni musicians. Each volume is a testament to the alumni’s commitment to quality, with compositions that traverse traditional boundaries, incorporating a variety of instruments, showcasing the spiritual evolution of the Bhajan Movement.
Swami’s Blessings – The Story of its Origin
The cassette of the first volume was brought to Puttaparthi by the alumni musicians to be offered to Swami. Swami graciously accepted that offering and allowed them to sing in the Mandir on that special day. Devotees who were present in the Darshan hall could also recognise the alumni singers. Swami was so moved during the Bhajans that He got down from the throne and walked over to Prof. Anil Kumar and told him “Chudu Naa Pillalu Paaduthunaru” (See My boys are singing). Following the Bhajans He blessed each one of the alumni representing the ‘A Bridge Across Time’ team, individually.
Every year as the 1st of January approached the team would tirelessly work to produce a compilation of Bhajans they have made till date in the form of a CD, sparing no efforts. And Swami would eagerly look forward to the occasion when the boys would make an offering of the CD in the Mandir on New Year’s day.
Devotees across the globe have come to treasure this spiritual compendium, finding solace and connection through its timeless Bhajans. ‘A Bridge Across Time’ has given some of the most memorable and immortal Bhajans such as Sai Baba Sakala Bhuvana Ke Daata, Daya Karo Hey Karunanidhaan and Prasanthi Nilaya Nivasa Araja Suno.
Harmonising the Past and Present
“The end of wisdom is freedom. The end of culture is perfection. The end of knowledge is love. The end of education is character.“- Sathya Sai Speaks, Summer Course 1991
The album serves as a bridge not only across time, but also across generations. It harmonises the compositions of senior alumni with those of the newer generations, creating a rich tapestry of devotion. When it was felt that the compositions could benefit from new infusions and that there was a need for variety by adding in more composers, the senior batch of alumni musicians sprung into action. Within days, many beautiful compositions such as Partheeshwara Sri Sai Prabhu and Sri Madhusudhana Krishna were received from newer batches of alumni students. Thus began a continued fast growing confluence of effort between batches of alumni spanning many generations. The senior alumni were able to include many beautiful compositions and were also able to train and nurture new talent. So, ‘A Bridge Across Time’ has compositions from across generations of alumni across time. In order to contribute to this album, the alumni musicians have invested in some of the best musical instruments which are also being used for the production of songs for Swami’s educational institutions.
Beyond Music: A Saga of Devotion
“Start the day with love; spend the day with love; fill the day with love; end the day with love. This is the way to God.” Sathya Sai Speaks, Vol. 34
Recording sessions are not just about music; they are a pilgrimage of the heart. The unique bond among the alumni shines during these sessions bringing up soft loving memories of their days at Swami’s Lotus Feet. The production process, from selecting singers to mastering the tracks, unfolds like a divine play, with each recording considered a miracle—a testament to the pure intentions and shared purpose behind this annual offering.
Preparations for the forthcoming volume typically commence well in advance – around the June-July timeframe. During this period, potential singers are identified from alumni circles in India and other countries. The initial screening criterion is that the singer should have previous experience singing in the Mandir. Subsequently, they are requested to perform and record a song, which is evaluated based on the quality of their rendition. The selection of songs for the upcoming volume follows, with a focus on incorporating newer compositions from multiple composers. Efforts are also made to ensure that new singers are recognised and provided with opportunities. Each volume is strategically planned to include a variety of genres with decisions on pitch and pace for the songs. By September, lead singers are assigned their respective Bhajans.
The recording with the lead singers is concluded by October after which they dispatch their tracks to the studio technician in Chennai. In the initial week of November, the alumni brothers in Sundaram sing and record the chorus section. Subsequently, instrumentalists render and record the background music (BGM). The next steps involve placing the tracks, followed by mixing and balancing processes. The final output is released on 31 December, which is burned onto a CD for presentation to Swami at His Sannidhi. Simultaneously, the digital version is forwarded to the Books and Publications Division for both offline and online sales. Each volume comprises 12 Bhajans, individually performed by one lead singer, and involves 4—6 additional singers for the chorus. Three to four alumni contribute with Tabla, while one to two alumni handle instrumentation. The remaining instrumental work is undertaken by non-alumni professionals.
Blessings Amid Challenges
“Do not be misled by what you see; what you ‘do not see with your eyes is much more significant. Why waste your life without achieving its purpose – namely, knowing and experiencing the truth? Come, come with Me, you can make your life worthwhile; you can succeed. Man has in him all the Bliss, as well as all the equipment needed to unravel it; but, he is caught in dire ignorance of his own inner resources.” Sathya Sai Speaks, Vol. 12, Ch. 28
The journey, however, is not without its challenges. The increasing sophistication of instruments, quality of recording and the overall rise in professionalism have increased the cost of production. Yet, the alumni affirm Swami’s assurance that pure intentions obviate financial constraints.
The transition from Bengaluru to Chennai, which could potentially have been challenging, also went through smoothly by His grace. Thus, the story of overcoming obstacles resonates through the production of every volume.
Alumni Bond: A Lifelong Sadhana
Beyond the music, ‘A Bridge Across Time’ has become a catalyst for a sense of brotherhood among the alumni. The contributors, including non-musician alumni, share an intimate connection – a shared sadhana. The experience of working on each volume is not just about musical prowess, but is also a profound journey with Swami, nurturing talents, and fostering a spirit of oneness.
The distinctive connection among the alumni becomes especially prominent during the extended recording sessions. A particularly cherished element is the communal sharing of meals, whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner depending on the recording schedule. These moments evolve into a nostalgic journey, revisiting the beautiful days spent at Swami’s Lotus Feet across various batches.
Global Impact
“Happiness is true holiness. True bliss lies in cultivating the principle of love and leading a life of contentment. We should always be contented. When there is no contentment, worries raise their head.” Sathya Sai Speaks, Vol. 39
The impact of this devotional saga extends globally. Devotees across the world consider the album a lifeline connecting them with Swami through the medium of music. The album’s reach, both online and offline, testifies to its universal appeal, becoming a source of spiritual inspiration for countless hearts.
In the Spirit of Service
“Man’s foremost duty is to serve his fellow men and make them happy. Your life will be redeemed only when you involve yourself in the service of society. The highest sadhana (spiritual practice) is to transform love into service. Service will lead you to devotion.” Sri Sathya, Thursday, November 18, 1999
The alumni’s journey goes beyond music, extending into various realms of service. Initiatives such as Samarpan, engagement with academic departments, and active participation in SSSSO activities showcase the multifaceted nature of their devotion. The story of the alumni band and the drama enactment underscore their commitment to embodying Swami’s teachings through diverse mediums.
Conclusion: A Continuous Offering of Love
The alumni’s journey, as showcased through ‘A Bridge Across Time’, is a continuous offering of love at the Lotus Feet of the Divine. Swami’s teachings, encapsulated in each musical note, each act of service, and each moment of spiritual reflection, form the foundation of their unwavering commitment. As they navigate the realms of music, service, and brotherhood, the alumni stand united in their pursuit of making Swami’s message of love and unity a living reality.
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Acknowledgment
The Vidyullekha team expresses heartfelt gratitude to the brothers who shared their stories and information for this article embodying the spirit of brotherhood and devotion that defines the alumni community. The team seeks Bhagawan’s blessings for the ongoing journey of the album, year after year, and extends heartfelt wishes to all the contributing artists.
