A New Identity. The Same Spirit of Service.
Sai Sharan, Inc. has a new logo representing its continuing journey of faith, service, and community.
For me, faith has always been more than something we practice. It is also about how we treat others, how we serve our community, and how we help when someone is in need.
That belief is at the heart of Sai Sharan, Inc.
Founded in Orlando, Florida, in September 2001, Sai Sharan is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization inspired by the teachings and example of Shirdi Sai Baba. The name itself reflects that connection and the spirit of seeking refuge at Sai Baba’s feet.
How Sai Sharan Began: A Journey of Faith
When I first came to the United States, I had a desire to build a temple dedicated to Shirdi Sai Baba. I did not know exactly how that journey would unfold, but I wanted to do something that would help bring devotees together and share Sai Baba’s message.
My journey eventually led me to Sai Darbar Orlando in 1999. In 2000, we organized our first Shirdi Sai Utsav in Chicago, Illinois. Looking back, I still wonder how these opportunities came into my life. Sometimes, only God or the Universe knows why certain things happen and where they will lead us.
In September 2001, I took another step in that journey by establishing Sai Sharan, Inc.
At the time, I was working at Oracle Corporation. My background was in the Income Tax Department in India, where I had worked as a clerk and data entry operator, followed by my career in technology. I had no formal knowledge of nonprofit administration, accounting, or the legal process involved in establishing a charitable organization.
But I decided to try.
I completed approximately 40 pages of paperwork to register Sai Sharan and apply for federal tax-exempt status. I did not have a CPA or an attorney guiding me through the process. I worked through the paperwork myself while continuing my job at Oracle.
By God’s grace, Sai Sharan received its 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status in December 2003.
For me, this was more than completing government paperwork. It was an important step toward creating something that could serve devotees and the wider community.
More Than an Organization
Sai Sharan grew out of a desire to share faith, bring people together, and serve others. Through Sai Utsavs, bhajans, spiritual gatherings, and charitable initiatives, the goal has always been to make a positive difference.
I may not have known everything about running a nonprofit when I started, but I had faith and a willingness to learn and do the work.
When I look back today, I feel grateful for how the journey unfolded. What began as a desire to build a temple became an organization through which I could help bring people together in devotion and service.
This is the evolution of Sai Sharan.
Faith in Action
Sai Sharan was created with a simple purpose: to turn faith into service.
Over the years, the organization has been involved in charitable and community efforts supporting people in need in the United States and abroad, including communities in India, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia.
Through different initiatives, Sai Sharan has supported humanitarian efforts, helped underprivileged communities, and responded to times of need and disaster.
One of the important parts of this journey has also been bringing people together through faith and community.
Sai Utsav
Beginning in 2003, Sai Sharan has organized Sai Utsav, bringing devotees and community members together in celebration, prayer, service, and fellowship.
These gatherings have become an important part of the organization’s journey, creating opportunities for people to come together, share their faith, and give back.
Sharing the Teachings of Sai Baba
Sai Sharan’s work is also about sharing the message and teachings associated with Shirdi Sai Baba.
One example has been helping distribute copies of Sai Satcharitra, allowing more people to learn about Sai Baba’s life, teachings, and message.
For me, sharing these teachings is not simply about reading a book or attending an event. It is about trying to bring those values into everyday life through kindness, compassion, humility, and service.
Serving the Community
Over the years, Sai Sharan’s work has extended beyond religious gatherings. The organization has been involved in charitable activities, community service, youth initiatives, environmental efforts, and helping people during difficult times.
The needs of a community can change, but the basic idea remains the same: when we have an opportunity to help someone, we should try to help.
That is what service means to me.
Sai Ke Charno Mein
As Sai Sharan continues its journey, its new identity is represented by a new logo and the words:
Sai Ke Charno Mein
For me, this phrase represents devotion, humility, and surrender to Sai Baba while continuing to follow a path of service.
Sai Sharan is not just an organization. It is a journey that began with faith and grew through friendships, community, service, and the desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
I am grateful to everyone who has been part of that journey over the years, and I look forward to continuing the work of Sai Sharan, Inc.
Sai Ke Charno Mein.
About Sridhar “Sri” Rangaswamy
Sri is an author, technologist, comedian, and motivational speaker with decades of experience in technology, leadership, entertainment, and community service. Through storytelling, humor, and real-life experiences, Sri inspires audiences to learn, grow, and make a positive impact.
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