Stories That Serve : The Call of the Hills by Sucheta

28th October 2025  ★  3 mins read

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The call of the hills, the pitter-patter of the rain, the gentle breeze, and the clear sky all whispered to me that I was on my way to Puttaparthi. The ride, at times smooth and at others bumpy, felt much like the script of my life. Yet through every twist and turn, I knew I would ride through it all, for at the end awaited my Sathya Sai Baba.

Coming to Parthi was like a homecoming. What made it even more special was knowing Aarav was beginning his Narayan Seva journey

From his vision of cleaning the sacred Chitravathi River and bringing clean water to every person in India, to now serving in ground up initiatives supported by Starspur.

The auto ride to the villages was exhilarating. Aarav sat quietly, pensive, absorbing the sights and activity along the road, taking notes about the river-cleaning project. I sat beside him, capturing moments with my camera, my heart swelling with joy as I watched my son, a potential philanthropist, making his baby steps in giving time and energy to causes which align so well with Starspur’s mission.

Our first stop was a small space dedicated to custodial care for 3-5 year olds. Despite walls marked by peeling paint, the children’s happy faces lit up the surroundings. They reminded us once again that joy is the art of living, that there is little else to life but learning to be happy.

Next stop was Beedupalli School; recently repaired, partially rebuilt and fully rejuvenated by Starspur volunteers to ensure safety, wellbeing of the children, the difference was remarkable.

The children’s excitement was infectious as they received their small treats: cake and Frooti. Their faces beaming with smiles far bigger than the gifts themselves. The staff received us with such enthusiasm.

The Narayan Seva was wholesome and humbling, offering lessons in gratitude, simplicity, and the pure joy that children naturally carry within them.

Later, as we continued our journey, we met the head of SSSRIF. The whole concept of encouraging innovation and then incubating it, giving young minds the freedom to think big while guiding them to turn their vision into reality to uplift communities — was truly powerful.

CEO Pavan Sir was helpful, insightful, and deeply supportive throughout, a true reflection of the nurturing spirit that Baba’s SSSIHL Alumni embodies.

Our goals are defined, but it will take wholehearted effort and discipline to keep them on track. Yet, God gives dreams only to those He knows have the strength to fulfill them. As Swami once said:

“You just make yourself available, and I will make you capable.”

With this faith lighting his path, Aarav begins his journey, one of service, purpose, and love, guided by the unseen Hand of Divinity!

Written by

Sucheta Khanna
Project Leader, Starspur

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