Puttaparthi

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Before I start the new blog I have to make a correction. The little village I am staying in is Gokulum not Kokulum. Finally got something sorted with the pictures too.

Turning right coming out of my apartment a ten minute walk takes me into the main town of Puttaparthi .This was the birth place and home of the guru Sai Baba whose ashram Prashanti Nilayam is the main center of the town. People flock here from all over the world and millions of pounds of donations have assured that the town will thrive on his legacy. Spreading over acres of greenery and beautiful lawns are some of the most amazing buildings designed and supervised by Sai Baba himself. The village has a super hospital funded by donations from Isaac Tigrett ( Hard Rock Cafe owner) who was a devotee of Sai Baba. Treatment is free for everyone . There is a music school, Sports college, books and publications trust building, several schools ranging from primary to higher secondary colleges, a planetarium and halls of residence. As well as academic achievement the main highlight of the curriculum involves Educare, a programme which involves teaching children and young people in social, moral and spiritual values designed by Sai Baba himself . The Sai Baba Trust is also responsible for providing clean drinking water for all the surrounding villages for thousands of people.



The ashram is at the heart of the village and is surrounded by small businesses and street vendors selling everything imaginable. Sai Baba's picture and name are used in nearly every one. His pictures are everywhere, on bilboards promoting safe driving and various other things, on autorickshaws, shop fronts etc. New roads have been put in place to make it easier for visitors to get here, there's even a small airport. The most refreshing thing about it is the fact that even though millions of westerns flock here the town itself remains largely unaffected. There are several hotels and restaurants catering for visitors but I am so glad to say that there is not a McDonalds or Kentucky Fried Chicken in sight! The ashram has three canteens too, one of which caters for western tastes. As yet I haven't visited it and I think I'm the only foreigner not here because of Sai Baba. I use a restaurant where most of the locals eat called Sai Surya. There is a varied choice on the menu and the staff are very helpful and friendly catering to specific needs (not spicy lol) A mushroom tikka masala, a chapati and a cup of tea will set you back 130 rupees (approx £1.30). All the businesses shut down from 1pm till about 3.30 then it is a hive of activity. The street is then jampacked with autorickshaws, bikes, cars and people mostly heading to and from the ashram. There are also beggars too but I've been told that most of it is organised,but it's still so hard to refuse.
Work continues at the center and there is a steady stream of animals requiring attention on a daily basis. I don't know how they manage to keep up. The last couple of weeks have been hard due to an outbreak of Parvo virus and we are seeing more and more dogs coming to the center with it, mostly pups. Some survive, most don't. The tasks and the animals are very varied, from a cow with an abscess on its butt to stitching the wing of a fruit bat. The forestry commission (government run)drop off deer and peacocks and other animals regularly too . The center does not receive any money for their care and have barely the resources or space to cover the costs, but they do not turn any animal away. Should anyone like to contribute there is a face book page where you can donate. Hope you all enjoy the pictures

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Photos

Snowball
This little fella had so much trauma in his very short life. Paralysed as the result of an accident then had two bowel operations. Such a wee fighter, bounced back no problem. He was like a Rottweiler on steroids if anyone went near his food bowl. Unfortunately the wee soul passed away last week as a result of Parvo virus

Monkeys
The center has several monkeys, most of them which have lost limbs due to being electrocuted on the power lines. They manage very well. This cheeky chappy is not caged like the rest and wanders about the center, some of the time winding up the dogs.

Ahimsa Farm
The spirulina tanks at the farm

Karuna
The monkey is friendly with some of the dogs

Ahimsa Farm
This is where all the organic products are made, peanut butter, spirulina, mint tea, etc and some Ayurvedic medicines. Helping the running costs of the center

This little fella is so tiny

Cat house
The cat house has about ten cats but we've had a few more come in over the last few weeks. Most of the cats have some form of disability, mostly leg and paw injuries.

This little fella only has one eye

Comments

[Veronica Condon]

Hello
Fascinating updates from your travels. Be well be safe. V xx

[Carol]

Poor Snowball, what a shame.

[Hillary]

WOW!
May fantastic pictures, thank you for making time to do this and to see the extent of the work that you are dedicated to! these wee pets are in need of TLC which I know you are doing your very best to give.. Loved to see the area thanks for giving us all a clearer image of your path. Eat more you are looking like you need treats yourself!! lol Sherpani Hilly XXXX

[Jenni]

Puttaparthi
Looks like you have found your feet here+ wonderful that you are getting chance to see some of Sai baba's work in reality. Take care Jenni x