Chief Guest
Smt. Syamala Voruganti
Smt. Syamala Voruganti, a remarkable woman whose life is a beautiful blend of devotion, service, creativity, and resilience.
Syamala ji is the daughter of the late Professor Josyula Visweswararao of IIT Kharagpur and Smt. Josyula Vardhanamma. She was married to the late Sri Varadaraja Sarma, a graduate of IIT Bombay and a distinguished Metallurgical Engineer at Bhilai Steel Plant. Together, they moved to Canada in 1981 and built a life rooted in values, service, and community. She now lives in the United States with her sons, Kaladhar Voruganti and Pavan Voruganti; daughters-in-law, Sundari and SriUsha; and her grandsons, Sairaj and Saishyam.
Academically accomplished, she holds a B.A. from Calcutta University and an M.A. from Ravishankar University. However, her true calling has always been in the service of others and in sharing spiritual and cultural values.
A gifted musician and composer, Syamala ji has devoted her talents to singing Swamy’s bhajans and playing classical instruments such as the Veena, Sitar, Guitar, and Banjo. She has composed and produced devotional music for Ladies Day celebrations at Sathyasai Centers in Edmonton and San Jose and has even donated a CD of her compositions to the library of the Sathyasai Center of Edmonton.
Her writing talent has touched many through articles published in Andhraprabha magazine and a book titled “Aanandam Ekkadavumdoch,” which offers reflections on leading a meaningful and joyful life. She has also written and produced plays to instill Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s values in women and children.
Syamala ji is the founder of a heartfelt blog, “Manasara Maguvala Ko Maata,” dedicated to women of all ages striving to live by Swamy’s teachings. Her interviews with service-minded women in the Bay Area shine a light on their inspiring work.
For over 43 years, she has served communities in Canada and the U.S., volunteering with the Marian Center, Red Cross, Kaiser Permanente, and Almaden Community Center. Her compassion and leadership were recognized with an Employee Award of Excellence and a Leadership Award from the Department of Advanced Education and Career Development in Canada, for her counseling and career workshops for immigrants.
At 82, Syamala ji remains active—exercising three times a week, meditating daily, praying, and tending her garden, showing us all that age is no barrier to purpose or joy.
Syamala Voruganti’s life is a shining example of devotion in action, creative expression, and unwavering service. We are blessed to hear from her and learn from her inspiring journey.