The serene environs of Sri Sathya Sai Gokulam came alive with devotion and nostalgia this morning as a new idol of Lord Krishna was installed and unveiled on the auspicious occasion of Sri Krishna Janmashtami. With the divine blessings of Bhagawan, the idol was unveiled by Mr RJ Rathnakar (Managing Trustee, Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust) and Mr K Chakravarthi (Chairman, Sri Sathya Sai Global Council) in the presence of the functionaries and staff members of Gokulam.

For over five decades, Gokulam has stood as a living expression of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s boundless love for animals. Established in 1975, during the year of Bhagawan’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, the institution has continued to serve the cows and other animals with love and care, while extending its services to devotees and visitors to Prasanthi Nilayam. It was in this very year that Sai Geeta, Bhagawan’s beloved elephant, was brought to Gokulam to live amidst the cows. One may recall how Bhagawan personally took keen interest in the well-being of the animals, enquiring about their food, health and comfort.

Last year, during severe storms and rains, a tree fell on the existing Krishna idol, damaging and breaking it. With the divine blessings of Sai Krishna, a new idol has now been lovingly created and installed, continuing the sacred sentiment and tradition initiated by Bhagawan Himself.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Rathnakar drew attention to a beautiful coincidence spanning five decades. He recalled that over 50 years ago, Bhagawan had chosen Mr K Chakravarthi to inaugurate the Gokulam premises. Today, after five decades, he was once again present at Gokulam, reverentially performing the honours for the new idol. The moment thus became a touching reunion of the past and present — a reminder of how the traditions lovingly nurtured by Bhagawan continue to live on through successive generations.

On this holy occasion, the staff members of Gokulam received Bhagawan’s Prasadam in the form of new clothes, making the day all the more special for those who have dedicated themselves to the service and care of the animals at Gokulam