In the 19th Century there lived amongst the people of Shirdi a spiritual master who became known as Sai Baba of Shirdi. Sai, as he was known affectionately, followed a simple moral and ethical code. He taught this to all who came to learn, and his everlasting trademark was his love for doing Nishkam Karma – selfless service. Sai left his physical body on 15th October 1918, a century on and the impact of his life continues to travel the globe to reach millions.
One such group live in Milton Keynes, known as DreamSai. DreamSai is mainly composed of people of Indian and Hindu origin. Families gather every Thursday to partake in spiritual practice of Bhajans, and there is also the provision of Bal Vikas and the opportunity to do Seva. Their core belief of Seva prompted the leadership to come to the forefront during the Covid crisis. Lakshmana Rao Kastala and his team very quickly assessed that there were many in the wider community who were struggling. From the elderly to the vulnerable, and from the single parent families to those who had lost jobs. There were people going to bed hungry. There were families who did not have essentials to get by. At this time when the nation was faced with one of its most profound emergencies, the team at DreamSai came together and put the concept of Seva into action.
The 100% volunteer force at DreamSai totalling more than 100 people (ages from 5 to 75+ years) started a programme to feed as many people as possible. Food and everyday essentials were bought through their own resources initially. These were put into food parcels and the team of drivers worked round the clock to deliver to the needy.
Soon, hot vegetarian meals were cooked, packed and delivered to hundreds of homes throughout Milton Keynes. For some families this would be their only hot meal of the day.
Shirdi Sai Baba always said do seva, but to make sure it was selfless. With DreamSai the people of Milton Keynes witnessed the impact of this ancient wisdom in action.
This incredible feat of human endeavour did not go unnoticed. DreamSai was put forward for the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Services. Thousands of names of voluntary groups are put forward every year, however, for 2021 only 241 organisations secured this prestigious award. On 2nd June 2021 the decision by Her Majesty was made public and DreamSai was named as one of the winners of the award.
The aptly named DreamSai had their dreams realised. When sevaks have the blessings of Shirdi Sai Baba, was there ever a doubt on their success?
Lakshmana Kastala, DREAMSAI’s founder and chair said: “It is a true honour to be recognised and to receive The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service and a testament to the crucial work our volunteers do. Our DREAM of practicing the teachings of Shirdi SAI here in Milton Keynes has now transpired into a large network of incredible volunteers of all ages and backgrounds who give so much energy and time to help thousands of people in the community every year.”
On 16th October I attended the award ceremony in Milton Keynes. Countess Howe, Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire (representing Her Majesty) was in attendance and presented the award in person. It was a wonderful event, organised to perfection. It was a fitting tribute to this army of sevaks who became a lifeline to hundreds.
I therefore take this opportunity to salute everyone at DreamSai. Congratulations on your award, well deserved and an honour for the whole community. Sai Ram.
