“My life changed when I stepped into the Ashram,” reflects Lokesh M, whose dedication as a supervisor at the Sri Sathya Sai Vatsalyam Campus transformed his outlook. Hailing from the village of Huliyar, his early years as an engineer brought structure, but not satisfaction. It was the global pandemic that jarred him from complacency, necessitating a change and compelling him to seek deeper meaning.
Though initially unfamiliar with the teachings and philosophy of Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, Lokesh soon found opportunity blooming in the form of a supervisor role at the ashram.. “I was struck by the tranquility and energy of the place,” he fondly recalls, “It filled me with such calm and purpose.” Appointed amidst the construction and establishment phase of the Ashram, Lokesh dutifully dove into each task assigned to him with sincere proactiveness – from managing daily inventories and overseeing procurement, to participating in the spiritual rituals and poojas, providing support in the community kitchen, and meticulously maintaining various operational aspects of the ashram. Ever humble, he readily took on any housekeeping duties if required for the greater good of the ashram and its residents.
His selfless work ethic and discipline did not go unnoticed, with colleagues highlighting instances where he would devote an additional two hours before starting the next day, effectively working for 26 hours straight to complete a pressing task, yet displaying unwavering enthusiasm and care. “Every morning when I wake up, I want to do my absolute best for the Ashram,” Lokesh shares earnestly. The profoundly peaceful and spiritual environment fueled his sense of dedication, purpose and service, evoking a deep-rooted satisfaction within him. “This place motivates and inspires me in ways I can’t even describe,” he says.
Having nurtured a strong sense of belonging and meaning through his work, Lokesh regards his role at the Ashram as one of the most pivotal and life-changing decisions of his life thus far. “Being here has given me a family and home away from home,” he says endearingly. Though far from his own family in his hometown Huliyar, their unwavering love and support anchors him, as he finds spiritual fulfillment serving the Ashram. Shedding past vices and weaknesses, Lokesh embraced efficient time management and found his calling in purpose through service to the Ashram and its ideals.
“I have found true fulfillment and meaning here,” Lokesh reflects contently. By heeding his inner calling to serve, his journey reveals how one’s dedication to a higher cause can lead to holistic transformation of the mind, body and spirit.”