The Andhra Pradesh Governor ESL Narasimhan has arrived at Puttaparthy today to take part in three-day programme- Sri Sathya Sai Aradhana Mahotsavam- commemorating the first death anniversary of Sathya Saibaba of Puttaparthy today. While the programme has begun Monday, ESL Narasimhan would be the chief guest today.

Narasimhan is likely to release a book on Sathya Saibaba today. A large number of people across the globe have already reached Puttaparthy to take part in the programme.

It may be recalled that Sathya Saibaba was declared by the doctors as dead on April 24 2011 at Sri Sathyasai Super-specialty Hospital due to cardio respiratory failure. Sathya Saibaba has huge following across the globe. People believe him to be the avatar of Lord.

Who is Sathya Saibaba?

Sathya Saibaba was a self-proclaimed God. Born as Sathyanarayana Raju in 1926, Saibaba of Puttaparthy is looked upon as God by some and as a spiritual figure by a few. He became famous and people started to approach him after he proclaimed he was the reincarnation of Saibaba of Shirdi (who was a fakir and was worshipped by all religions in the town).

There were many controversies regarding materialization of Shiva lingas and holy ash from air by him. While some called it as signs of divinity, skeptics labeled them as mere tricks.

Whatever be the reason, Puttaparthy Saibaba’s photos can be seen at various houses and in vehicles like cars besides people even wear his lockets as symbol of fortune. (Phani)