A Museum of Faiths
Missed the beginning? Read the first part of the story here: Puttaparthi: A Dream Made Real
The next morning, a smaller part of our group set off to visit the Museum of Religions in Puttaparthi, where much of the exhibition is devoted to Sai Baba’s life and the shared essence of various world religions—the path to God.
Many people were at work everywhere in the ashrams and museums of Puttaparthi. In India, it’s typical that three or four individuals often carry out even a simple task. Perhaps this reflects the country’s immense population and the need to provide employment.
In the museum, we were followed by lines of attendants who accompanied us everywhere. I remember a few amusing scenes, like when the museum was closing: the staff literally “washed us out,” forming a human chain behind us, as if to say, “There’s no going back.”
Another episode involved Nastya’s attempt to photograph a row of exhibits featuring Sai Baba’s sayings. Her effort was swiftly interrupted by a stern, lengthy tirade in Hindi from an elderly attendant. It felt as though a teacher was scolding a schoolgirl. However, Nastya’s boundless love for India could overcome any barrier. With a few phrases in Hindi and her charming smile, she melted the stern exterior, and by the end, the two women were hugging and parting as dear friends.
A Cosmic Perspective
Our journey led us to the Cosmic Museum, which truly deserves its reflection. This was where Sai Baba’s presence fully revealed itself to me.On the first floor were exhibits about the universe’s origin, the solar system’s formation, and a few well-known scientific facts across various fields of natural science. There were also photos of Sai Baba with schoolchildren and more. As I wandered through the exhibition, I wondered why the information was presented this way—why such basic facts were being shared. Only at the very end did the deeper meaning become clear to me.
Like everything created by Sai Baba, this place was intended for everyone, regardless of their background or level of education. It was designed so that each visitor could take away what was accessible and meaningful to them. This is the essence of accurate selfless service—offered freely and without judgment.
The Universe Within
The second floor houses a small cinema—a surprising touch. The film begins by showing a typical day in Sai Baba’s life: his silent interactions with thousands, walking through the crowd, and collecting notes from devotees. Nothing is spoken, and yet the simple, sacred rhythm of it all draws you in. Strangely, it leaves you with a sense of his presence.
The film then seamlessly transitions into a documentary about the universe’s origins, the world’s most powerful telescopes, and the mysteries of matter and space. Against this backdrop, inner and outer space boundaries seem to dissolve. At one point, I realized this wasn’t just a stream of scientific data but a reminder of our connection to something far greater.
The museum unexpectedly becomes a mirror, reflecting our inner scale, the measure of our openness. And in this, too, lies Sai Baba’s signature: uniting the earthly and the divine—not by force, but through gentle guidance of attention.
A Symbolic Farewell
On the penultimate day of our journey, Mykola once again stepped onto the “stage.” I don’t know when or where exactly, but somehow along Mykola’s path appeared a limping dog and an injured crow. Both needed urgent care and had to be brought to a shelter or a vet clinic. The photos he sent showed just how dire their condition was—and that help was swiftly given. I couldn’t leave this episode unmentioned; it reflected the boundless heart of our friend. In Sai Baba’s town, this act felt almost symbolic—a final reminder that service walks beside us at all times, as long as we remain open to its call.
And so, the last day of our shared journey arrived. That morning, the four of us—without Kirill—headed for Bangalore. From there, Nastya, Mykola, and I would travel to Gokarna, a small fishing village on the Arabian Sea. Svetlana would return home to Goa, and Kirill was already en route to Bali.
Two weeks had flown by, gifting each of us a part of India that we were ready to receive and understand.
After the pilgrimage ended, I asked everyone to share their reflections. Some of their responses have already woven into this chapter. Others remain between the lines.
As a closing, I include the words of Nastya and Svetlana, exactly as they were written.
Echoes from the Journey
Nastya
How would you describe the trip in one word or image?
Heartfelt.
Which three moments were most meaningful to you?
- Reconnecting with beloved places and sharing them with others
- Seeing India through your eyes
- Sharing my love for this magical country
Are there any unexpected discoveries?
I’m glad we became friends and that the journey felt warm and soulful from the inside.
I felt that we were good guides who shared something valuable. I’d definitely travel with us again and would recommend us to friends!
I’m ready to visit these places 100 more times. Each one fills me in its way.
How did the journey change you?
I feel more peaceful, full, and grateful that it happened.
What influenced your energy or awareness most?
Yoga Vasistha, Agni Yoga, meditation, sacred places—feeling the echo of saints in the space, even after death.
Challenging moments?
At the Kumbh Mela, the crowds were overwhelming. I feared being crushed.
Most memorable place?
Puttaparthi—for its energy and how Sai Baba cared for us, left us his legacy and wrote guidance all over the town. The directions he left etched themselves in my mind forever.
Memorable people?
The group itself—being able to share my love and worldview.
How was the group experience?
I loved all of you.
I felt joy doing this pilgrimage together.
I appreciated how attentive and respectful you were and how courageous and open you were.
You didn’t bring your own rules into another’s sacred space—you were sincere in your efforts to understand.
One word for our interaction?
Miracle.
Spiritual experiences?
Always.
It’s an honor to introduce others to this vast presence everywhere.
Final thoughts?
Everything that happened was important.
Let’s see what grows from the seeds we’ve planted.
What will you take home in action, not just memory?
“Shine always, shine everywhere, till the very end—shine, and no nails! That’s my motto!”
Love everyone. Serve everyone.
Message to your past self before the trip?
It’s going to be amazing!
Would you go again?
Yes! I want to show you the Himalayas next—maybe in May 😉
Svetlana
One word to describe the journey?
Path.
Most powerful moments?
- Early morning journey to the sacred bath
- First night at the Kumbh Mela
- Witnessing a human body being cremated
Unexpected insights?
Yes.
Inner changes?
I began to appreciate daily life more.
I became more in touch with myself—what I want and can do.
Influential practices or moments?
- The Rainbow Ashram at Kumbh Mela
- Cremation ground in Varanasi
- My room in Varanasi and a quiet day with Nastya, thanks to a cold
- A morning boat ride on the Ganges
Challenging moments?
At the Rainbow Ashram, I didn’t feel like I belonged. It felt alien. So, I left.
Most striking place?
Kumbh Mela—for the sheer volume of people and their expressions.
Puttaparthi—a city built from one man’s dream. Nothing is impossible for a doer.
Memorable encounters?
The town of Sai Baba—Puttaparthi
A tea shop in Varanasi
The best Idli in town
A music concert
Group experience?
I was glad we stayed together from start to finish, in mutual acceptance.
A word for our group energy?
Tact and acceptance.
Spiritual presence?
Always.
God has no hands but ours.
Insights or signs?
Every day and every person is essential.
Spiritual growth?
Sai Baba showed a beautiful path.
What will you carry into daily life?
Acceptance.
Message to your past self?
You’ve got room to grow 😉
Would you do it again?
Yes—with an open heart.
Final reflection?
Travel is always one more step upward.
Mykola’s reflections are already part of the main story.
Finally, I want to thank all my new friends through whom India—and everything that followed—entered my life. India did not become my great love, but it opened a world I will be exploring for a long time. It is vast and diverse, sometimes overwhelming, but undeniably deep and multifaceted.
With gratitude.
Completed on the full moon on the eve of the New Year on April 12, 2025, in Tangalle, Sri Lanka.
Articles in This Series:
- The Word Was with God – How India Found Me
A personal and spiritual awakening begins in India’s heartland. - Delhi Shock – My First Night in India
Raw impressions from the chaotic, vibrant capital. - The Divine Heart of India – Vrindavan, Krishna, and Rama
A deep dive into sacred cities and mythic lore. - Madness or Faith? A Pilgrimage to Maha Kumbh Mela
Encountering the world’s largest religious gathering. - Exploring Hinduism’s Greatest Festival – Maha Kumbh Mela 2025
A guide and reflection on faith, crowds, and ritual. - To Be or Not to Be: On the Eve of the Great Bathing
Facing existential questions on the threshold of the sacred. - Where the Fires Burn – First Encounters with Varanasi
A visceral arrival in India’s most mystical city. - Between Life and Flame – Tales from the Ganges
Reflections on death, devotion, and the river’s eternal flame. - Journey Through Varanasi – Saturn, Sound, and Spirit
Myths, music, and meaning in India’s spiritual capital. - Puttaparthi: A Dream Made Real
A village transformed by faith: the story of Sathya Sai Baba’s birthplace. - At the Edge of the Universe – A Journey Through Puttaparthi
A cosmic path of devotion, silence, and the soul’s unfolding.