Aishwarya Rai touches PM Modi’s feet at Sri Sathya Sai Baba centenary event; speaks on love, caste & religion

Actor Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was present at the birth centenary celebrations of Sri Sathya Sai Baba in Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh, where she touched the feet of Prime Minister Narendra Modi before taking the stage. The event brought together leaders, artists and public figures who arrived to honour the spiritual icon’s life and message.

Sachin Tendulkar, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu and G Kishan Reddy were also part of the gathering. The presence of people from different fields turned the ceremony into a collective tribute to a guru whose teachings continue to guide followers across the world.

Aishwarya, an alumnus of the Sathya Sai Bal Vikas program, delivered a speech centred on unity, humanity and the need to rise above social divisions. She spoke calmly and firmly, holding the audience’s attention as she referred to values that shaped her early years.

She said, “There is only one caste, the caste of humanity. There is only one religion, the religion of love. There is only one language, the language of the heart, and there is only one God, and he is omnipresent.” The crowd responded with applause as she paused between lines.

Her message reflected the philosophy of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, who often emphasised compassion and service to others. She also acknowledged the Prime Minister’s presence, saying, “I extend a heartfelt thank to PM Narendra Modi ji, for being with us here today and for honouring this special occasion. I'm looking forward to listening to your wise words, impactful and inspiring as always, to enthral us today. Your presence here adds sanctity and inspiration to this centenary celebration and reminds us of Swami's message that true leadership is service and service to man is service to God.”

Aishwarya went on to speak about the five D’s taught by the spiritual leader: Discipline, Dedication, Devotion, Determination and Discrimination.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba, born on November 23, 1926, became known worldwide for his work in education, healthcare and humanitarian service. His passing in 2011 left behind a vast community of devotees who continue to keep his teachings alive.

The centenary event in Puttaparthi offered a space for remembrance, reflection and gratitude, as people gathered to revisit the values he championed.