Puttaparthi (Andhra Pradesh): Sri Sathya Sai Baba on November 22 called upon the people not to waver from the path of truth and advised them to lead a puritan life - in thoughts, words and deed to attain eternal bliss.

In an hour-long address on the occasion of his 77th birthday at Prasanti Nilayam in Puttaparthi the "Godman", who is revered by lakhs of devotees in different parts of the world, emphasised the need to have unity and perfect harmony in one's thoughts, words and deed.

President A P J Abdul Kalam visited the spiritual centre this morning before Sai Baba gave his message and extended greetings.

Baba spoke about the importance of qualities of steadfastedness, sincerity and wisdom and underscored that ego must be curbed. He also called for purity in heart and mind, as thousands of devotees thronged his abode, and among them was Union Minister of State for Home I D Swami.

Sai Baba described laziness as "animal quality".

He repeatedly said food is God and advised that one must pray before partaking of it.

"Don't go after money, Sai Baba counselled, saying it would ruin one's life. "Develop a friendship with God. Have sacred thoughts, lead pure, defectless, blemishless and divine life."

PTI