About Sri Sathya Sai Baba
Sathya Sai Baba (born as Sathya Narayana Raju; 23 November 1926 – 24 April 2011) was an Indian guru, spiritual leader and philanthropist. He claimed to be the reincarnation of Sai Baba of Shirdi (died 1918), who was also considered by his followers to be a saint and miracle worker.
Sai Baba's reputed materialisations of vibhuti (holy ash) and other small objects such as rings, necklaces, and watches, along with reports of miraculous healings, resurrections, clairvoyance, bilocation, and alleged omnipotence and omniscience, were a source of both fame and controversy; devotees considered them signs of his divinity, while sceptics viewed them as simple conjuring tricks. He further faced accusations over the years of sexual abuse and fraud, which he rejected as smear campaigns.
The Sathya Sai Organisation, founded by Sathya Sai Baba "to enable its members to undertake service activities as a means to spiritual advancement," has over 1,200 Sathya Sai Centres (branches) in 126 countries. Through this organisation, Sathya Sai Baba established a network of free hospitals, clinics, drinking water projects and schools.
- Source: Wikipedia