Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh:
The centenary celebrations of Sri Sathya Sai Baba in Puttaparthi on Wednesday witnessed a widely discussed moment when Bollywood actor Aishwarya Rai Bachchan touched Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s feet on stage. The gesture, captured live during the high-profile event, quickly went viral across social media platforms and triggered nationwide conversation.
The event, held as part of the 100th birth anniversary of the spiritual leader, was attended by thousands of devotees and several dignitaries, including Modi, former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, and leading figures from multiple sectors.A Respectful Gesture Draws Attention
As Aishwarya Rai walked towards the Prime Minister before her address, she bowed down and touched his feet a traditional Indian gesture symbolizing respect. Modi responded by folding his hands.
Within minutes, video clips of the exchange began circulating widely, generating a wave of reactions praising the actress for “cultural humility” while also drawing opinions questioning the gesture in a public spiritual gathering.
Despite the debate, the moment became one of the most-watched visuals of the celebration.
Aishwarya Rai’s Address Highlights Message of Unity
Following the gesture, Aishwarya delivered a brief but impactful speech emphasizing the teachings of Sathya Sai Baba.
“In Baba’s words, there is only one caste humanity, one religion love, one language the language of the heart,” she said, receiving applause from the audience.
The actress recalled her childhood involvement in Bal Vikas, a spiritual and value-education program inspired by Sai Baba’s ideologies. She also mentioned the path of “Five Ds” Discipline, Dedication, Devotion, Determination, and Discrimination describing them as principles that continue to guide her life.
PM Modi Pays Tribute to Sai Baba’s Legacy
Prime Minister Modi, who addressed the gathering earlier, lauded Sai Baba’s contributions in the fields of health, education, and humanitarian service.
He unveiled a commemorative coin and postal stamp marking the 100th birth anniversary, calling the spiritual leader’s life “an inspiration of selfless service.”
Modi also appreciated the global community built through Baba’s teachings and urged citizens to adopt compassion and service-oriented values.
Public Reaction: Praise and Debate
Aishwarya Rai’s gesture triggered mixed reactions online. Many social media users admired her for “upholding Indian tradition,” while others questioned whether public figures should maintain such gestures toward political leaders.
Several users, however, highlighted that the moment occurred in a spiritual environment, where expressions of respect are often heightened.
Her speech, on the other hand, was largely appreciated for its clarity and message of unity.
Aishwarya’s Spiritual Association Resurfaces
The event also brought attention back to Aishwarya’s long-standing association with Sathya Sai Baba’s teachings.
Her references to early value-based education programs and her articulation of spiritual principles were noted by observers as a reflection of her personal connection with the movement.
A Moment That Defined the Event
Though the centenary celebration hosted multiple performances and addresses, Aishwarya Rai brief interaction with the Prime Minister emerged as the key highlight.
The visuals have since been broadcast by several news outlets and continue to trend across social platforms.
The Puttaparthi gathering, one of the largest spiritual events in recent years, concluded with prayers and cultural presentations honoring the 100-year legacy of Sri Sathya Sai Baba.
