Aditya Nittala
1992 Prasanthi Nilayam

To be born as a human being on this earth is a blessing and to have Swami as our Father, Mother, Friend, Guru and God is much more than a blessing! Each passing day in His immediate presence was an experience of Bliss forever. Swami works silently through the power of love and that love has changed my entire life.

I always think of those special blissful moments and memories which have made a big impact in my life. With his blessings and grace, I secured admission into the 5th standard of Swami’s school. The name entered in the school Register was Babu. My parents wanted Swami to name me. Whenever I got an opportunity all that I asked Swami was for a name, Swami used to give me names like “Pakoda” and “Idly”, He also told me to keep my name as Babu, but I always insisted that He should give me a name. There were many instances when Swami saw my letter, smiled and when I asked Swami for a name, he said, “I know that you don’t have a name”. So I remained silent and surrendered to His will with faith because He knows the right time to give me a name. I kept waiting patiently for the day to come.

One day Swami informed me that that day was ‘Amavasya’ and hence, it was not a good day to give me a name. I felt very happy because I thought Swami had decided to name me soon. I was all set and geared up for the naming ceremony in the divine presence. It was during my 9th standard, on 22 December I again got up to ask Swami for a name – for the last time.

Swami lovingly told me, “What name do you want?” “Swami, any name that you wish for me.” He asked me, “Does your brother also study in the institution?” “Yes Swami.” “What is his name?” “NSN Murthy,” I replied. “What does NSN stand for?” He probed. “Nittala Surya Narayana Murty.” Swami thought for a while and looked at me. He said, “Aditya matches with Surya, so keep your name as Aditya.” He then asked me to take Padanamaskar.

I was overjoyed! I took Padanamaskar and sat down. Swami then went again to the men’s side. While returning to the interview room, he turned back and looked straight at me and asked, “What is your name?” I said, “Aditya, Swami”. “That’s right,” he said with a smile and went inside the room.

I do not know how to describe my feelings that day. I was on top of the world! This is most unforgettable experience of Swami’s love in my life and it made me realize that God has a plan and that’s all I need to know. Even though feelings of sorrow and separation from Him envelop me, I tell myself that He knows best and is always there for me. And reaffirming my faith, I cheer up.

Brother Aditya Nittala works for a IT major as a project lead. was part of Swami’s school from 1986