The word Mahasamadhi means not only the conscious departure from the physical body of a realized soul but also the shrine where the physical body is buried.

The images below show the permanent Mahasamadhi of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, which was unveiled on Guru Purnima, 15 July 2011. Click on one of the images to obtain a high-resolution version of it (1 to 4 MB) in a new window.

"In regard to every matter, my thoughts are always sublime and exemplary. You must note that Swami's life is in His own hands and not in those of anyone else. If I will it, I can live for as long as I please. I can also terminate it at will. It is my will that decides and not any other person. The reason is My purity, selflessness, and divinity. What other testimony is called for? The life of the pure hearted is in their own hands and not in those of others." Discourse, 3 July 1993

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