Emperor Bali stands forth as a sterling example of one who stands by his word whatever the circumstances. That is why the people of Kerala (a state in South India) worship him to this day and celebrate the festival of Onam in his memory. What is it that is adored? It is the virtue of truth. Without truth, nothing has any value. Love is the supreme value. It is not worldly love but Divine love that is precious. The Divine love encompasses every other form of attachment to friends and others. Cultivate the enduring friendship of God. Emperor Bali was prepared to offer everything including himself to God. That is the spirit in which Bali surrendered to the Lord; that is his greatness.
(Divine Discourse, 27 Aug '96)