The Greatness of Udi
I bow down to Sree Ganesh
I bow down to Sree Saraswati
I bow down to the *XU.
I bow down to the Family Deity
I bow down to Sree Sita-Ramachandra
I bow down to Sree Sadguru Sainath.
1.
In the last chapter, I spoke, as truly as I knew, about the
greatness of udi. In the present chapter, I will continue
the same narration describing its characteristics.
2.
There is a connection between the stories of the last
chapter and this one about the power of the Udi. Listeners
may hear them with a peaceful mind for their own happiness
and understanding.
3.
The dreadful disease of tubercular bone-ulcers, which could
not be cured by any means, was totally eradicated by the
application of udi, by Sai’s own hands.
4.
There are many such stories about Udi. I am narrating one as
an indication. You will be surprised listening to it, as it
has been a well observed experience.
5.
A qualified doctor of Malegaon, District Nashik, was unable
to cure the illness of his nephew by any medication.
6.
He was a doctor and had doctors among friends. They tried
all kinds of remedies. Even skilled surgeons were at a loss
and were confounded.
7.
The disease was tubercular bone-abscess. It was tremendously
difficult to bring under control and it resisted all
medication.
8.
All remedies, indigenous and foreign, were tried. All
efforts were made. Even surgery was done. Nothing succeeded.
9.
The nephew was young. He was unable to bear the pain. He
struggled under extreme pain and the relatives were
distressed.
10.
When all medical efforts had crossed the limit and yet there
was not the slightest improvement, some relations and
friends suggested invoking divine help.
11.
So the family deity and others were propitiated but none of
them seemed to help. Then they learnt that in Shirdi village
there was a famous ‘aulia’.
12.
He was the greatest amongst saints at Shirdi – Sai Maharaj,
the greatest of yogis! By his mere darshan diseases were
eradicated. This was what they heard.
13.
The desire to have Sai darshan arose. The mother and the
father decided: “Let us try this remedy, with trust in God.
14.
He is said to be a great ‘aulia’. If he applies udi with his
own hands incurable diseases are eradicated. What do we lose
by taking this experience?
15.
Let us go and bow at his feet. Let us try this last remedy.
Perhaps it might ward off this problem. It is our last
resort”.
16.
Enough. Later the parents made quick preparations being
anxious for Sai’s darshan. They arrived quickly at Shirdi.
17.
They took Baba’s darshan as soon as they arrived. They bowed
and prostrated at his feet. They narrated the sufferings of
the boy and stood in front of Baba.
18.
Overwhelmed with grief, with folded hands, they surrendered
at Sree Sai’s feet. With faces showing distress, they
beseeched Sai.
19.
“This boy is suffering”, they said. “We cannot bear to see
him tortured but we do not know what more we can do. We see
no hope.
20.
Seeing the deterioration of our son, we are greatly wearied,
Sai Samartha. Therefore, place your boon granting hand on
his head and relieve his suffering.
21.
Hearing about your greatness, we have come here. We have
surrendered to you with full devotion. Bestow his life to
us”.
22.
Then, that Sai, the embodiment of compassion, assured them:
“Those who come and resort to this Masjid shall never suffer
anything in this life.
23.
Now, be carefree. Take udi and apply it on the abscess.
Within four to eight days, he will get relief. Have faith in
God.
24.
This is not a Masjid but Dwaravati1. He who steps here will
get health and happiness, within no time. You also will get
this experience.
25.
It is impossible that whoever comes here is not relieved. He
who climbs the steps of this Masjid will accomplish his
objective. Know that”.
26.
Later, on orders from Baba, the patient was made to sit
before him. Baba moved his hand on the leg and cast merciful
glances at him.
27.
This was merely physical suffering. But even suffering which
is destined or created by the mind is destroyed from its
roots by the ‘darshan’.
28.
Just seeing Sree Sai’s face, all troubles cease then and
there; and drinking the nectar of his words gives the
greatest happiness to a sick person.
29.
So be it. They stayed there for four days. There was
improvement in the disease and their faith in Sai developed.
30.
Thereafter, those three, with Baba’s full permission,
returned home full of happiness and satisfaction.
31.
Was this a small miracle that the tubercular bone-abscess
was cured only with udi and a merciful glance? This alone is
the unparalleled remedy.
32.
Thus due to good fortune they had the darshan of the great
sage, his assurance and beneficial blessings. By these only
the disease had been uprooted.
33.
So be it. After application of the udi and partaking of it,
for some days, the abscess drained away, the wound filled up
and that boy regained good health2.
34.
When the uncle heard all this at Malegaon, it aroused a
desire to have Sai’s darshan in him. He thought of
fulfilling his wish on his way back to Bombay.
35.
But when he left for Bombay, at Malegaon and at Manmad,
somebody created doubts in his mind and he abandoned the
idea of going to Shirdi.
36.
Such is the fate of many a good intention! Evil-minded
people put a spoke in the wheel, right at the start. Only
those who pay no heed to public opinion achieve happiness in
the end.
37.
Then setting aside the idea of the saint’s darshan, he went
straight to Bombay; and decided to spend the rest of his
holidays at Alibag.
38.
After he had decided thus, for three consecutive nights, he
heard a voice in his sleep: “Do you still have disbelief in
me?”
39.
On hearing this voice from heaven, repeatedly, the doctor
was bewildered. He decided to go to Shirdi for he felt that
the voice was meaningful.
40.
But the doctor was treating someone with an infectious
fever. So he decided to leave immediately after the patient
got better.
41.
But the temperature was very high and no medication proved
useful. It did not come down at all; so, he could not leave
immediately.
42.
So he ultimately decided that if the patient improved that
day he would leave the next day, without losing a moment,
for Shirdi.
43.
Within a few hours of making this firm resolution the
temperature came down. The doctor’s objective could be
fulfilled and he left for Shirdi.
44.
As determined, he went to Shirdi. He bowed at Baba’s feet
with full faith. Baba convinced him of his secret experience
and made him a firm devotee.
45.
Baba placed his hand on the doctor’s head with blessings,
and gave him ‘udi-prasad’. Realising the unfathomable
greatness of Sai, he was filled with amazement.
46.
He stayed there for four days, and returned with a happy
frame of mind. Hardly had a fortnight passed that he went to
Bijapur on a promotion.
47.
It was on account of the tubercular bone – abscess that he
had the opportunity of Sai’s darshan. He developed love for
the saint’s feet and achieved permanent bliss.
48.
Similarly, once Dr. Pillai was in excruciating pain because
of guinea-worms. They had increased from one to seven. He
was fed up of life.
49.
Sai Baba loved him greatly and affectionately called him by
the nickname ‘Bhau’. He always inquired after his well-being
with great love.
50.
In the Masjid, Bhau’s place was near the railing, in the
morning and evening. He spent a lot of time with Bhau and
they chatted a lot.
51.
Bhau was needed when the ‘chillum’ was puffed; Bhau was
needed when the ‘bidi’3 was smoked; Bhau was needed when
passing judgement on certain matters. When he was not near,
he was missed.
52.
Enough. This was his background. Since the pain on account
of the guinea-worms was unbearable, Bhau was confined to the
bed being enfeebled. The intensity of the pain was too much
to bear.
53.
Even in such a pathetic situation, Bhau chanted Sai’s name.
“Enough of this suffering. Even death is preferable”, he
cried surrendering to Sai.
54.
He sent a message to Baba: “I am weary of bearing this pain.
How many abscesses do I have on my body! I do not have the
strength to bear this.
55.
Throughout my life I have acted correctly. Why should I have
to undergo this painful condition? I have never deviated
from the path of righteousness. Why should I be punished and
for what sin?
56.
Baba! I can longer bear this pain on account of the guinea-
worms, which is similar to death. Instead let me die now.
shall undergo the suffering in my next life.
57.
There is no alternative but to bear the pain. I shall have
to take many more births. But that which is destined cannot
be avoided. Dull-witted though I am, I realise it.
58.
I will happily take ten more births, in which I shall
undergo the fruits of my ‘karma’. But grant me the boon of
ending this present life.
59.
Enough of this life. Release me from this birth. I do not
wish to undergo this pain. That is all that I ask for now”.
60.
Listening to this prayer, the Siddha-rana felt compassion;
and for Dr. Pillai’s satisfaction showered the nectar of
mercy. Savour it.
61.
Then seeing this utterly painful condition of Dr. Pillai,
notice what the devotee’s wish-fulfilling tree did to remove
it.
62.
This message from Dr. Pillai was brought by Dixit. Listening
to this news, Baba said: “Go and tell him to be fearless”.
63.
And the further message he sent: “Why should he be crippled
for ten lives? He has to bear it out only for ten days; and
we shall both share it.
64.
When I am capable of granting liberation, material desires,
or spirituality, are you being brave in asking for something
meaningless like death?
65.
Pick him up and bring him here. What has been destined must
be borne with equanimity. One should not be confounded like
this. Bring him here on somebody’s back”.
66.
So, the doctor was immediately brought to the Masjid in such
a condition. Taking out the bolster from behind his back,
Baba gave it to him to lean on.
67.
Placing it on his right, where Fakir Baba used to sit he
said: “Lean on it and stay quiet. Do not fret,
unnecessarily.
68.
Stretch your legs out comfortably whereby you will be at
ease. Whatever is destined has to be borne. That is the only
remedy.
69.
Good or bad, pleasure or pain, as per destiny, come either
like nectar or poison. Bear in mind that this pair of
opposites comes naturally (in the life of a person). Be
neither happy nor miserable.
70.
Endure whatever comes. Allah is the Master and Protector.
Always meditate upon Him. He takes every care.
71.
Surrender at His feet with body, mind, speech and wealth. If
one remains constantly thinking of Him, one will realise His
functioning”.
72.
Then Dr. Pillai said that Nanasaheb Chandorkar had tied a
bandage over the wounds but he had got no relief.
73.
Baba said: “Nana is mad. Remove the bandage, otherwise you
will die. Now a crow will come and peck. Then you will get
well”.
74.
Enough. While this conversation was in progress, Abdul5 came
up immediately, to pour oil in the lamps. See what happened
all of a sudden.
75.
The Masjid was as it is, small and there was a large crowd
of devotees. In the midst of all that there was the
confusion about Pillai. Abdul had no room to put his foot.
76.
Abdulla was concentrating on his work and had his attention
on the lamps. Thereby, he did not notice
Pillai. Something unusual happened!
77.
What could Abdulla6 do? What is destined to
happen will happen. Unknowingly his foot
fell on the leg which Pillai had stretched
out.
78. The leg was as it is swollen and Abdulla
stepped on it, at that very spot. Then
Pillai bawled out loudly, as he was in
excruciating pain.
79.
He shrieked once in such a way that it pierced the mind.
Then, with folded hands, he prayed to Baba for mercy. Listen
to it.
80.
The wound burst and the worms began to ooze out. Pillai was
very restless. He was crying out loudly and singing,
alternately:“
O Karim! Have mercy on my pitiable state!
Thou art called Merciful and Kind!
Thou art Emperor of both the worlds!
The world is thy splendour.
This world is going to be destroyed.
But Your Grandeur will be eternal.
You are always the Saviour of the Devotees”.
81.
The pain was intermittent. He was in agony and lay down
helplessly. Everyone felt that this was Sai Baba’s sport.
82.
Baba said : “Look at Bhau. He seems to be better. He is
singing now”. Pillai then asked him: “Is that crow still
going to peck at me?”
Abdul Baba
83.
Then, Baba said: “Go and rest in the Wada now. Now the crow
will not come again to peck at you.
84.
Did he not already come? He is the same one who trod on your
leg. He is the crow who pecked and ran away. He squeezed out
the worms”.
85.
What crow! It had only been a figure of speech! Whatever had
to happen was got done in front of all. He fulfilled the
prediction.
86.
These were not ordinary words; but destiny. Even the deeds
done in previous births will have no effect. Within a short
time Bhau began to feel better.
87.
And as the tenth day dawned, the disease was totally cured
only by application of udi and partaking of it. This was the
only medication.
88.
All the seven worms came out alive, from the wound. They
were thin and long. The excruciating pain eased. There was
an end to the misery.
89.
Experiencing this miracle, Pillai was overwhelmed, and tears
of affection flowed from his eyes by this fine deed of Baba.
90.
Pillai embraced Baba’s feet. He was choked with emotion but
could not utter a single word.
91.
After narrating one more experience, we shall conclude the
description of the greatness of udi. One’s experience
matches one’s devotion. That, in fact, is the sum and
substance of this book.
92.
The story is about Bapaji, the youngest brother of Madhavrao
and how he achieved his well-being with udi, when he was in
difficulty.
93.
How much should I describe the marvels and the power of this
udi! Udi is the medicine par excellence for plague and other
diseases.
94.
While living at Savul Vihir, a place near Shirdi, Bapaji’s
wife had fever and bubos developed in her groins. He felt
anxious.
95.
Seeing his wife in great pain at the fearsome night time,
Bapaji lost all fortitude and courage.
96.
During the night itself, he ran to Shirdi and arrived shaken
and trembling. He told the full details to his brother.
97.
He said : “She has developed two bubos and is greatly
troubled by the high fever. Come and see for yourself. I do
not think all is well”.
98.
When Bapaji narrated this pitiful state, Madhavrao was
shocked and terror – stricken. He was at his wit’s end.
99.
Madhavrao, though normally a balanced person, was shocked to
hear about the bubos. It is well-known that bubonic plague
could lead to a quick death.
100. Whatever the situation, good or bad, or any work, auspicious
or inauspicious, it was the tradition in Shirdi to consult
Sai.
101. Then whatever he said was followed meticulously. He alone
removed the problems of the devotees. How many such
experiences can I describe?
102. So, as per this routine, Madhavrao also thought of adopting
this means. He went to Baba, greeted him with reverence and
prostrated before him.
103. He said: “Hail, hail Sainath! Have mercy on us, the helpless
ones. Now, what is this problem that has arisen, causing
unnecessary anxiety!
104. Who else can we implore besides you? Take away this girl’s
agony and give your blessings.
105. Remove this difficulty. Who else will care for us? Bring
this terrible fever down. Be true to your creed of
protection”.
106. He also asked permission to leave, when Baba said to him:
“Do not go so late in the night. Send udi to her.
107. Why care for the fever and the bubos? God is our father. She
will be alright easily. Everything will be safe and without
any problems.
108. Early in the morning you go to Savul Vihir and return. Do
not be in a hurry to go now. Stay here calmly.
109. Go tomorrow only. There is no need to be restless. When udi
is applied and partaken with faith, why should one be
frightened?”
110. Hearing this, Bapaji was frightened. He was greatly
disappointed. Madhavrao knew the antidote of medicinal
plants for this disease; but his knowledge would be of no
use now.
111. Madhavrao knew fully well that without Sai’s grace no
medicine would be effective. This was a secret and an
indication.
112. So bowing to Baba’s will, Madhavrao sent the udi and
remained calm and quiet. Bapaji returned disappointed.
113. When the udi was mixed in water and given to drink, and also
applied to the body, she profusely perspired and fell
asleep.
114. By sunrise, the wife felt quite well. Gone was the fever and
also the poisonous bubos! Bapaji was surprised.
115. At Shirdi, as soon as Madhavrao awoke and finished his
ablutions, he came to the Masjid for darshan on his way to
Savul Vihir.
116. He took Baba’s darshan and prostrated at his feet. As soon
as he got the udi and blessings, he left from there.
117. As he was descending the steps of the Masjid, he heard Baba
command him: “Shama, return immediately. There will be no
cause to delay”.
118. On the way, he worried: ‘Must my sister-in-law be in agony?
How will she be bearing the sensation of the two bubos? She
must be lying in agony.’
119.Failing to understand the meaning of Baba’s words: “Return
immediately”, Shama was worried even more and walked fast on
the way.
120. Until he reached Savul Vihir, he had no patience. But when
he stepped across the threshold he witnessed a miracle.
121. One who had fever on account of plague, the previous night,
was making tea before the fireplace. Madhavrao was surprised
to see the change in her condition.
122. Then he asked Bapaji “How is it that she is busy with her
normal routine?”, Bapaji replied: “This is the miracle due
to Baba’s Udi certainly”.
123. He added : “As soon as I came, I gave her udi to drink and
applied it, massaging it all over the body. She immediately
profusely perspired and slept comfortably.
124. Then, this morning at sunrise, she got up hale and hearty
free of bubos and fever. All this is Sai’s doings!”
125. When Shama saw this state of affairs, he immediately
recalled Sai’s words: “Return immediately.” He understood
the meaning and was amazed.
126. The problem had ended even before his arrival. Madhavrao
had a cup of tea and returned. He went straight to the
Masjid and bowed at Baba’s feet.
127. He said: “O Deva, what is this sport? Sitting here, you
raise a turmoil in our minds. A storm is raised and later
you alone calm it down”.
128. Baba replied to him: “Observe that the ways of fate are
difficult to understand. I do nothing nor make others do
anything. Yet I am held responsible for all that happens.
129. I am just a witness to the deeds that happen on account of
fate. The Eternal Lord is the doer and the mover. He alone
is the Compassionate One.
130. I am neither God nor the Almighty. I am not the Lord nor the
Supreme Spirit. I only remember the Lord and remind people
of the existence of the Supreme Lord. I am just a poor
servant of Allah.
131. He who abandons all pride, is ever grateful to Him, and
places all his burden on Him, will achieve his objective”.
132. Listen to an important and similar experience of an Irani
gentleman. His young daughter used to lose her speech hour
on the hour.
133. Every hour she got convulsions. Her body arched like a bow
and she fell down at the very spot. She became unconscious
and seemed as if she would die. No remedy was effective.
134. Later, a friend of his described to him the importance of
the udi and told him that there was no other, unbelievable
and surefire remedy than that.
135.“Go to Parle without any delay and ask Dixit for the udi, of
which he has a store. He will give it with great pleasure.
136. Then, everyday if you give this udi, remembering Sai with
full faith, to drink to her, this convulsion will be cured
and she will be well and happy”.
137. Hearing this, then this Irani gentleman got udi from Dixit,
and gave it regularly to his daughter to drink; and she got
cured.
138. Whereas she used to have this problem every hour, she
improved right away on taking the udi, as the frequency of
the fits decreased from one hour to seven hours.
139. At first the frequency decreased from one hour to seven
hours. And, after some time had passed, the fits stopped
altogether7.
140. An old gentleman lived in a village near Harda. He was
distressed on account of kidney-stone and suffered much from
it.
141. There was no cure for it other than surgery. Therefore, he
was told to find some skilful surgeon.
142. The patient was extremely worried and could not think what
to do. His body was very thin and weak and he seemed to be
at death’s door-step. He was unable to bear the tremendous
pain.
143. To undergo an operation, a patient needs courage and this he
lacked. But, by good luck his adversity ended. You will be
surprised to hear it.
144. When this was the situation, the Inamdar of the town who was
a great devotee of Sai Baba, was known to have come to the
village, at that time.
145. Everyone knew that he always kept with him Baba’s ‘vibhuti’.
The relatives of the patient came to him and requested him
for some udi.
146. The Inamdar gave the udi. The son gave it to the father,
mixed in water. Hardly had five minutes passed, when a
miracle happened.
147. When the ‘udi prasad’ was assimilated in the body, the
kidney stone was pushed out from the kidney and was flushed
out with the urine. He felt immediate relief.
148. The wife of a gentleman from Bombay, by caste a Kayasth
Prabhu, always had difficulty at the time of delivery.
149. Then, no matter what was tried, nothing was efficacious. The
lady felt as if she was dying. And the poor gentleman was
distressed.
150. Shri Ram Maruti was a well-known person, who was a devotee
of Sai. After consulting him, this gentleman decided to
leave for Shirdi.
151. As the time of delivery neared, they both were terribly
distressed; but after they decided to go to Shirdi they felt
that they would have nothing to fear.
152. ‘Whatever has to happen, let it happen at least near Baba’ –
firmly deciding thus, they came and lived in Shirdi.
153. In this way both of them lived in Shirdi for months
together. Both were happy performing puja and staying in the
company of Sai.
154. After some time had thus passed, the time for the delivery
neared. They became extremely apprehensive as to how the
difficulty would be overcome.
155. Finally, the day of the delivery arrived and the passage
from the womb was obstructed. Everyone became worried?
156. The lady was in severe pain; and was unable to think of what
to do. She was chanting Baba’s name, for who else can have
mercy.
157. The neighbouring ladies came in haste. Praying to Baba
fervently, one of them poured water in a glass, mixed udi
and gave her to drink.
158. Hardly had five minutes passed when the lady delivered. The
child was stillborn, having died in the womb itself.
159. That was the fate of the child. She would conceive again,
later. But the lady felt relieved of her fears and was in a
happy state.
160. She delivered without much trouble. She was freed from any
danger to her life. The time for anxiety was averted. She
remained indebted to Baba for life.
161. The next chapter is even more interesting and the listeners
eagerness will be satisfied. The habit of criticising will
disappear as devotion develops.
162.“We worship the formless. We will not give ‘dakshina’. We
will not bow down. We will come for ‘darshan’ only on these
conditions”.
163. Even those with such firm resolution, when they saw Sai’s
feet, prostrated themselves with eight-fold obeisance and
tendered ‘dakshina’. What a miracle is this!
164. The incomparable greatness of udi; the loving devotion of
Nevaskar and how he maintained the righteous behaviour of a
householder by offering milk to a poisonous snake – all this
will be narrated.
165. Listening to such excellent stories will arouse loving
devotion. The miseries of this worldly existence will
subside. Is there greater bliss than this?
166. Therefore, Hemad prays at Sai’s feet to arouse love in the
listeners and to get involved in his stories.
May there be well-being! This is the end of the thirty-fourth
chapter of the Sree Sai Samartha Satcharita, written by the
devotee Hemadpant, impelled by Saints and virtuous people, called
“The Greatness of Udi”.
This is offered to Sree Sadguru Sainath.
May there be auspiciousness!
Notes :
1.
Lord Krishna’s Dwarka.
2.
In the village of Turambhe, near Bellpur, in Thane District, a
lady by the name of Shantabai had a tubercular bone abscess on the
thumb of her left hand. She suffered from it for seven years. One
night, Maharaj told her in a dream : “You apply ‘dikemali”
(medicinal plant with strong smelling resin). When the lady woke
up, she felt very happy. She applied ‘dikemali’ to the abscess and
it got better. Then she wrote a post–card, with all this
information, to Maharaj. That card bears the date 1st September
1918.
3.
Hand rolled tobacco leaf indigenous cigarette.
4.
One who has acquired all the eight Siddhis.
5.
Baba’s devotee who cleaned the lamps and lighted them in the
Masjid.
6.
Abdulbhai was originally a resident of Nanded. But nine or ten
years before Maharaj’s Samadhi he had come to Shirdi to serve him
and stayed there. Even after the Samadhi, he took no remuneration
and continued to serve getting only clothes and food in return.
When Maharaj was in body he had a big load of work and he did it
with great love. Earlier he stayed in the Chavadi; and thereafter,
near the Dwarakamai. Even at night, instead of resting, he spent a
lot of time reciting the Koran. At home, he had his mother, wife
and son; but leaving them all he was living in Shirdi. His mother
and son came to Shirdi sometimes. His wife had also come once but
he had no attachment for any of them. His mother was worried about
the marriage of his son and she tried to arrange it with one
party. But she was bluntly told that as Abdulbhai had become a
fakir, they did not wish to give their daughter in marriage into
that family. Consequently, the mother came to Shirdi and
complained to Maharaj. Maharaj said: “Be patient and don’t be
worried. The boy will get a good wife; and the marriage will be
fixed by itself.” Of course, everything happened as Maharaj had
said. Once Abdulbhai’s mother and son had gone to some village.
They met a gentleman there and he insisted on offering his
daughter to them. Some people told him that the boy’s father had
become a fakir, whereupon he replied: “Even if I become a fakir,
there is no problem. I will give my daughter in marriage only to
this boy.” Accordingly, the marriage was celebrated immediately.
This gentleman had an elder daughter of a marriageable age. Her
marriage had been already fixed, but there was some time before
the marriage was to take place. Yet, without a delay, he got his
younger daughter married first, to Abdulbhai’s son.
7.
There are many such experiences of this udi. A gentleman by the
name of Narayan Gopinath Dighe used to live in Bombay. He
developed a tumor in his stomach. It was like a hard stone and he
began suffering a lot, due to it. He consulted one or two famous
doctors of Bombay, but it was of no use. Later, someone advised
him to go to Maharaj. Of course, it was not possible for him to go
in his condition. He said that if with the blessings of Maharaj,
this tumor would burst and be excreted he would feel better and
then be able to go to Maharaj. So that person gave Maharaj’s udi
to him. He began to be partake of it and the very next day the
tumor burst and the internal pus began to be excreted. After a few
more days, he felt better. Then, as soon as possible, he went for
Maharaj’s darshan.
Dr.Pillay
I bow down to Sree Ganesh
I bow down to Sree Saraswati
I bow down to the *XU.
I bow down to the Family Deity
I bow down to Sree Sita-Ramachandra
I bow down to Sree Sadguru Sainath.
1.
In the last chapter, I spoke, as truly as I knew, about the
greatness of udi. In the present chapter, I will continue
the same narration describing its characteristics.
2.
There is a connection between the stories of the last
chapter and this one about the power of the Udi. Listeners
may hear them with a peaceful mind for their own happiness
and understanding.
3.
The dreadful disease of tubercular bone-ulcers, which could
not be cured by any means, was totally eradicated by the
application of udi, by Sai’s own hands.
4.
There are many such stories about Udi. I am narrating one as
an indication. You will be surprised listening to it, as it
has been a well observed experience.
5.
A qualified doctor of Malegaon, District Nashik, was unable
to cure the illness of his nephew by any medication.
6.
He was a doctor and had doctors among friends. They tried
all kinds of remedies. Even skilled surgeons were at a loss
and were confounded.
7.
The disease was tubercular bone-abscess. It was tremendously
difficult to bring under control and it resisted all
medication.
8.
All remedies, indigenous and foreign, were tried. All
efforts were made. Even surgery was done. Nothing succeeded.
9.
The nephew was young. He was unable to bear the pain. He
struggled under extreme pain and the relatives were
distressed.
10.
When all medical efforts had crossed the limit and yet there
was not the slightest improvement, some relations and
friends suggested invoking divine help.
11.
So the family deity and others were propitiated but none of
them seemed to help. Then they learnt that in Shirdi village
there was a famous ‘aulia’.
12.
He was the greatest amongst saints at Shirdi – Sai Maharaj,
the greatest of yogis! By his mere darshan diseases were
eradicated. This was what they heard.
13.
The desire to have Sai darshan arose. The mother and the
father decided: “Let us try this remedy, with trust in God.
14.
He is said to be a great ‘aulia’. If he applies udi with his
own hands incurable diseases are eradicated. What do we lose
by taking this experience?
15.
Let us go and bow at his feet. Let us try this last remedy.
Perhaps it might ward off this problem. It is our last
resort”.
16.
Enough. Later the parents made quick preparations being
anxious for Sai’s darshan. They arrived quickly at Shirdi.
17.
They took Baba’s darshan as soon as they arrived. They bowed
and prostrated at his feet. They narrated the sufferings of
the boy and stood in front of Baba.
18.
Overwhelmed with grief, with folded hands, they surrendered
at Sree Sai’s feet. With faces showing distress, they
beseeched Sai.
19.
“This boy is suffering”, they said. “We cannot bear to see
him tortured but we do not know what more we can do. We see
no hope.
20.
Seeing the deterioration of our son, we are greatly wearied,
Sai Samartha. Therefore, place your boon granting hand on
his head and relieve his suffering.
21.
Hearing about your greatness, we have come here. We have
surrendered to you with full devotion. Bestow his life to
us”.
22.
Then, that Sai, the embodiment of compassion, assured them:
“Those who come and resort to this Masjid shall never suffer
anything in this life.
23.
Now, be carefree. Take udi and apply it on the abscess.
Within four to eight days, he will get relief. Have faith in
God.
24.
This is not a Masjid but Dwaravati1. He who steps here will
get health and happiness, within no time. You also will get
this experience.
25.
It is impossible that whoever comes here is not relieved. He
who climbs the steps of this Masjid will accomplish his
objective. Know that”.
26.
Later, on orders from Baba, the patient was made to sit
before him. Baba moved his hand on the leg and cast merciful
glances at him.
27.
This was merely physical suffering. But even suffering which
is destined or created by the mind is destroyed from its
roots by the ‘darshan’.
28.
Just seeing Sree Sai’s face, all troubles cease then and
there; and drinking the nectar of his words gives the
greatest happiness to a sick person.
29.
So be it. They stayed there for four days. There was
improvement in the disease and their faith in Sai developed.
30.
Thereafter, those three, with Baba’s full permission,
returned home full of happiness and satisfaction.
31.
Was this a small miracle that the tubercular bone-abscess
was cured only with udi and a merciful glance? This alone is
the unparalleled remedy.
32.
Thus due to good fortune they had the darshan of the great
sage, his assurance and beneficial blessings. By these only
the disease had been uprooted.
33.
So be it. After application of the udi and partaking of it,
for some days, the abscess drained away, the wound filled up
and that boy regained good health2.
34.
When the uncle heard all this at Malegaon, it aroused a
desire to have Sai’s darshan in him. He thought of
fulfilling his wish on his way back to Bombay.
35.
But when he left for Bombay, at Malegaon and at Manmad,
somebody created doubts in his mind and he abandoned the
idea of going to Shirdi.
36.
Such is the fate of many a good intention! Evil-minded
people put a spoke in the wheel, right at the start. Only
those who pay no heed to public opinion achieve happiness in
the end.
37.
Then setting aside the idea of the saint’s darshan, he went
straight to Bombay; and decided to spend the rest of his
holidays at Alibag.
38.
After he had decided thus, for three consecutive nights, he
heard a voice in his sleep: “Do you still have disbelief in
me?”
39.
On hearing this voice from heaven, repeatedly, the doctor
was bewildered. He decided to go to Shirdi for he felt that
the voice was meaningful.
40.
But the doctor was treating someone with an infectious
fever. So he decided to leave immediately after the patient
got better.
41.
But the temperature was very high and no medication proved
useful. It did not come down at all; so, he could not leave
immediately.
42.
So he ultimately decided that if the patient improved that
day he would leave the next day, without losing a moment,
for Shirdi.
43.
Within a few hours of making this firm resolution the
temperature came down. The doctor’s objective could be
fulfilled and he left for Shirdi.
44.
As determined, he went to Shirdi. He bowed at Baba’s feet
with full faith. Baba convinced him of his secret experience
and made him a firm devotee.
45.
Baba placed his hand on the doctor’s head with blessings,
and gave him ‘udi-prasad’. Realising the unfathomable
greatness of Sai, he was filled with amazement.
46.
He stayed there for four days, and returned with a happy
frame of mind. Hardly had a fortnight passed that he went to
Bijapur on a promotion.
47.
It was on account of the tubercular bone – abscess that he
had the opportunity of Sai’s darshan. He developed love for
the saint’s feet and achieved permanent bliss.
48.
Similarly, once Dr. Pillai was in excruciating pain because
of guinea-worms. They had increased from one to seven. He
was fed up of life.
49.
Sai Baba loved him greatly and affectionately called him by
the nickname ‘Bhau’. He always inquired after his well-being
with great love.
50.
In the Masjid, Bhau’s place was near the railing, in the
morning and evening. He spent a lot of time with Bhau and
they chatted a lot.
51.
Bhau was needed when the ‘chillum’ was puffed; Bhau was
needed when the ‘bidi’3 was smoked; Bhau was needed when
passing judgement on certain matters. When he was not near,
he was missed.
52.
Enough. This was his background. Since the pain on account
of the guinea-worms was unbearable, Bhau was confined to the
bed being enfeebled. The intensity of the pain was too much
to bear.
53.
Even in such a pathetic situation, Bhau chanted Sai’s name.
“Enough of this suffering. Even death is preferable”, he
cried surrendering to Sai.
54.
He sent a message to Baba: “I am weary of bearing this pain.
How many abscesses do I have on my body! I do not have the
strength to bear this.
55.
Throughout my life I have acted correctly. Why should I have
to undergo this painful condition? I have never deviated
from the path of righteousness. Why should I be punished and
for what sin?
56.
Baba! I can longer bear this pain on account of the guinea-
worms, which is similar to death. Instead let me die now.
shall undergo the suffering in my next life.
57.
There is no alternative but to bear the pain. I shall have
to take many more births. But that which is destined cannot
be avoided. Dull-witted though I am, I realise it.
58.
I will happily take ten more births, in which I shall
undergo the fruits of my ‘karma’. But grant me the boon of
ending this present life.
59.
Enough of this life. Release me from this birth. I do not
wish to undergo this pain. That is all that I ask for now”.
60.
Listening to this prayer, the Siddha-rana felt compassion;
and for Dr. Pillai’s satisfaction showered the nectar of
mercy. Savour it.
61.
Then seeing this utterly painful condition of Dr. Pillai,
notice what the devotee’s wish-fulfilling tree did to remove
it.
62.
This message from Dr. Pillai was brought by Dixit. Listening
to this news, Baba said: “Go and tell him to be fearless”.
63.
And the further message he sent: “Why should he be crippled
for ten lives? He has to bear it out only for ten days; and
we shall both share it.
64.
When I am capable of granting liberation, material desires,
or spirituality, are you being brave in asking for something
meaningless like death?
65.
Pick him up and bring him here. What has been destined must
be borne with equanimity. One should not be confounded like
this. Bring him here on somebody’s back”.
66.
So, the doctor was immediately brought to the Masjid in such
a condition. Taking out the bolster from behind his back,
Baba gave it to him to lean on.
67.
Placing it on his right, where Fakir Baba used to sit he
said: “Lean on it and stay quiet. Do not fret,
unnecessarily.
68.
Stretch your legs out comfortably whereby you will be at
ease. Whatever is destined has to be borne. That is the only
remedy.
69.
Good or bad, pleasure or pain, as per destiny, come either
like nectar or poison. Bear in mind that this pair of
opposites comes naturally (in the life of a person). Be
neither happy nor miserable.
70.
Endure whatever comes. Allah is the Master and Protector.
Always meditate upon Him. He takes every care.
71.
Surrender at His feet with body, mind, speech and wealth. If
one remains constantly thinking of Him, one will realise His
functioning”.
72.
Then Dr. Pillai said that Nanasaheb Chandorkar had tied a
bandage over the wounds but he had got no relief.
73.
Baba said: “Nana is mad. Remove the bandage, otherwise you
will die. Now a crow will come and peck. Then you will get
well”.
74.
Enough. While this conversation was in progress, Abdul5 came
up immediately, to pour oil in the lamps. See what happened
all of a sudden.
75.
The Masjid was as it is, small and there was a large crowd
of devotees. In the midst of all that there was the
confusion about Pillai. Abdul had no room to put his foot.
76.
Abdulla was concentrating on his work and had his attention
on the lamps. Thereby, he did not notice
Pillai. Something unusual happened!
77.
What could Abdulla6 do? What is destined to
happen will happen. Unknowingly his foot
fell on the leg which Pillai had stretched
out.
78. The leg was as it is swollen and Abdulla
stepped on it, at that very spot. Then
Pillai bawled out loudly, as he was in
excruciating pain.
79.
He shrieked once in such a way that it pierced the mind.
Then, with folded hands, he prayed to Baba for mercy. Listen
to it.
80.
The wound burst and the worms began to ooze out. Pillai was
very restless. He was crying out loudly and singing,
alternately:“
O Karim! Have mercy on my pitiable state!
Thou art called Merciful and Kind!
Thou art Emperor of both the worlds!
The world is thy splendour.
This world is going to be destroyed.
But Your Grandeur will be eternal.
You are always the Saviour of the Devotees”.
81.
The pain was intermittent. He was in agony and lay down
helplessly. Everyone felt that this was Sai Baba’s sport.
82.
Baba said : “Look at Bhau. He seems to be better. He is
singing now”. Pillai then asked him: “Is that crow still
going to peck at me?”
Abdul Baba
83.
Then, Baba said: “Go and rest in the Wada now. Now the crow
will not come again to peck at you.
84.
Did he not already come? He is the same one who trod on your
leg. He is the crow who pecked and ran away. He squeezed out
the worms”.
85.
What crow! It had only been a figure of speech! Whatever had
to happen was got done in front of all. He fulfilled the
prediction.
86.
These were not ordinary words; but destiny. Even the deeds
done in previous births will have no effect. Within a short
time Bhau began to feel better.
87.
And as the tenth day dawned, the disease was totally cured
only by application of udi and partaking of it. This was the
only medication.
88.
All the seven worms came out alive, from the wound. They
were thin and long. The excruciating pain eased. There was
an end to the misery.
89.
Experiencing this miracle, Pillai was overwhelmed, and tears
of affection flowed from his eyes by this fine deed of Baba.
90.
Pillai embraced Baba’s feet. He was choked with emotion but
could not utter a single word.
91.
After narrating one more experience, we shall conclude the
description of the greatness of udi. One’s experience
matches one’s devotion. That, in fact, is the sum and
substance of this book.
92.
The story is about Bapaji, the youngest brother of Madhavrao
and how he achieved his well-being with udi, when he was in
difficulty.
93.
How much should I describe the marvels and the power of this
udi! Udi is the medicine par excellence for plague and other
diseases.
94.
While living at Savul Vihir, a place near Shirdi, Bapaji’s
wife had fever and bubos developed in her groins. He felt
anxious.
95.
Seeing his wife in great pain at the fearsome night time,
Bapaji lost all fortitude and courage.
96.
During the night itself, he ran to Shirdi and arrived shaken
and trembling. He told the full details to his brother.
97.
He said : “She has developed two bubos and is greatly
troubled by the high fever. Come and see for yourself. I do
not think all is well”.
98.
When Bapaji narrated this pitiful state, Madhavrao was
shocked and terror – stricken. He was at his wit’s end.
99.
Madhavrao, though normally a balanced person, was shocked to
hear about the bubos. It is well-known that bubonic plague
could lead to a quick death.
100. Whatever the situation, good or bad, or any work, auspicious
or inauspicious, it was the tradition in Shirdi to consult
Sai.
101. Then whatever he said was followed meticulously. He alone
removed the problems of the devotees. How many such
experiences can I describe?
102. So, as per this routine, Madhavrao also thought of adopting
this means. He went to Baba, greeted him with reverence and
prostrated before him.
103. He said: “Hail, hail Sainath! Have mercy on us, the helpless
ones. Now, what is this problem that has arisen, causing
unnecessary anxiety!
104. Who else can we implore besides you? Take away this girl’s
agony and give your blessings.
105. Remove this difficulty. Who else will care for us? Bring
this terrible fever down. Be true to your creed of
protection”.
106. He also asked permission to leave, when Baba said to him:
“Do not go so late in the night. Send udi to her.
107. Why care for the fever and the bubos? God is our father. She
will be alright easily. Everything will be safe and without
any problems.
108. Early in the morning you go to Savul Vihir and return. Do
not be in a hurry to go now. Stay here calmly.
109. Go tomorrow only. There is no need to be restless. When udi
is applied and partaken with faith, why should one be
frightened?”
110. Hearing this, Bapaji was frightened. He was greatly
disappointed. Madhavrao knew the antidote of medicinal
plants for this disease; but his knowledge would be of no
use now.
111. Madhavrao knew fully well that without Sai’s grace no
medicine would be effective. This was a secret and an
indication.
112. So bowing to Baba’s will, Madhavrao sent the udi and
remained calm and quiet. Bapaji returned disappointed.
113. When the udi was mixed in water and given to drink, and also
applied to the body, she profusely perspired and fell
asleep.
114. By sunrise, the wife felt quite well. Gone was the fever and
also the poisonous bubos! Bapaji was surprised.
115. At Shirdi, as soon as Madhavrao awoke and finished his
ablutions, he came to the Masjid for darshan on his way to
Savul Vihir.
116. He took Baba’s darshan and prostrated at his feet. As soon
as he got the udi and blessings, he left from there.
117. As he was descending the steps of the Masjid, he heard Baba
command him: “Shama, return immediately. There will be no
cause to delay”.
118. On the way, he worried: ‘Must my sister-in-law be in agony?
How will she be bearing the sensation of the two bubos? She
must be lying in agony.’
119.Failing to understand the meaning of Baba’s words: “Return
immediately”, Shama was worried even more and walked fast on
the way.
120. Until he reached Savul Vihir, he had no patience. But when
he stepped across the threshold he witnessed a miracle.
121. One who had fever on account of plague, the previous night,
was making tea before the fireplace. Madhavrao was surprised
to see the change in her condition.
122. Then he asked Bapaji “How is it that she is busy with her
normal routine?”, Bapaji replied: “This is the miracle due
to Baba’s Udi certainly”.
123. He added : “As soon as I came, I gave her udi to drink and
applied it, massaging it all over the body. She immediately
profusely perspired and slept comfortably.
124. Then, this morning at sunrise, she got up hale and hearty
free of bubos and fever. All this is Sai’s doings!”
125. When Shama saw this state of affairs, he immediately
recalled Sai’s words: “Return immediately.” He understood
the meaning and was amazed.
126. The problem had ended even before his arrival. Madhavrao
had a cup of tea and returned. He went straight to the
Masjid and bowed at Baba’s feet.
127. He said: “O Deva, what is this sport? Sitting here, you
raise a turmoil in our minds. A storm is raised and later
you alone calm it down”.
128. Baba replied to him: “Observe that the ways of fate are
difficult to understand. I do nothing nor make others do
anything. Yet I am held responsible for all that happens.
129. I am just a witness to the deeds that happen on account of
fate. The Eternal Lord is the doer and the mover. He alone
is the Compassionate One.
130. I am neither God nor the Almighty. I am not the Lord nor the
Supreme Spirit. I only remember the Lord and remind people
of the existence of the Supreme Lord. I am just a poor
servant of Allah.
131. He who abandons all pride, is ever grateful to Him, and
places all his burden on Him, will achieve his objective”.
132. Listen to an important and similar experience of an Irani
gentleman. His young daughter used to lose her speech hour
on the hour.
133. Every hour she got convulsions. Her body arched like a bow
and she fell down at the very spot. She became unconscious
and seemed as if she would die. No remedy was effective.
134. Later, a friend of his described to him the importance of
the udi and told him that there was no other, unbelievable
and surefire remedy than that.
135.“Go to Parle without any delay and ask Dixit for the udi, of
which he has a store. He will give it with great pleasure.
136. Then, everyday if you give this udi, remembering Sai with
full faith, to drink to her, this convulsion will be cured
and she will be well and happy”.
137. Hearing this, then this Irani gentleman got udi from Dixit,
and gave it regularly to his daughter to drink; and she got
cured.
138. Whereas she used to have this problem every hour, she
improved right away on taking the udi, as the frequency of
the fits decreased from one hour to seven hours.
139. At first the frequency decreased from one hour to seven
hours. And, after some time had passed, the fits stopped
altogether7.
140. An old gentleman lived in a village near Harda. He was
distressed on account of kidney-stone and suffered much from
it.
141. There was no cure for it other than surgery. Therefore, he
was told to find some skilful surgeon.
142. The patient was extremely worried and could not think what
to do. His body was very thin and weak and he seemed to be
at death’s door-step. He was unable to bear the tremendous
pain.
143. To undergo an operation, a patient needs courage and this he
lacked. But, by good luck his adversity ended. You will be
surprised to hear it.
144. When this was the situation, the Inamdar of the town who was
a great devotee of Sai Baba, was known to have come to the
village, at that time.
145. Everyone knew that he always kept with him Baba’s ‘vibhuti’.
The relatives of the patient came to him and requested him
for some udi.
146. The Inamdar gave the udi. The son gave it to the father,
mixed in water. Hardly had five minutes passed, when a
miracle happened.
147. When the ‘udi prasad’ was assimilated in the body, the
kidney stone was pushed out from the kidney and was flushed
out with the urine. He felt immediate relief.
148. The wife of a gentleman from Bombay, by caste a Kayasth
Prabhu, always had difficulty at the time of delivery.
149. Then, no matter what was tried, nothing was efficacious. The
lady felt as if she was dying. And the poor gentleman was
distressed.
150. Shri Ram Maruti was a well-known person, who was a devotee
of Sai. After consulting him, this gentleman decided to
leave for Shirdi.
151. As the time of delivery neared, they both were terribly
distressed; but after they decided to go to Shirdi they felt
that they would have nothing to fear.
152. ‘Whatever has to happen, let it happen at least near Baba’ –
firmly deciding thus, they came and lived in Shirdi.
153. In this way both of them lived in Shirdi for months
together. Both were happy performing puja and staying in the
company of Sai.
154. After some time had thus passed, the time for the delivery
neared. They became extremely apprehensive as to how the
difficulty would be overcome.
155. Finally, the day of the delivery arrived and the passage
from the womb was obstructed. Everyone became worried?
156. The lady was in severe pain; and was unable to think of what
to do. She was chanting Baba’s name, for who else can have
mercy.
157. The neighbouring ladies came in haste. Praying to Baba
fervently, one of them poured water in a glass, mixed udi
and gave her to drink.
158. Hardly had five minutes passed when the lady delivered. The
child was stillborn, having died in the womb itself.
159. That was the fate of the child. She would conceive again,
later. But the lady felt relieved of her fears and was in a
happy state.
160. She delivered without much trouble. She was freed from any
danger to her life. The time for anxiety was averted. She
remained indebted to Baba for life.
161. The next chapter is even more interesting and the listeners
eagerness will be satisfied. The habit of criticising will
disappear as devotion develops.
162.“We worship the formless. We will not give ‘dakshina’. We
will not bow down. We will come for ‘darshan’ only on these
conditions”.
163. Even those with such firm resolution, when they saw Sai’s
feet, prostrated themselves with eight-fold obeisance and
tendered ‘dakshina’. What a miracle is this!
164. The incomparable greatness of udi; the loving devotion of
Nevaskar and how he maintained the righteous behaviour of a
householder by offering milk to a poisonous snake – all this
will be narrated.
165. Listening to such excellent stories will arouse loving
devotion. The miseries of this worldly existence will
subside. Is there greater bliss than this?
166. Therefore, Hemad prays at Sai’s feet to arouse love in the
listeners and to get involved in his stories.
May there be well-being! This is the end of the thirty-fourth
chapter of the Sree Sai Samartha Satcharita, written by the
devotee Hemadpant, impelled by Saints and virtuous people, called
“The Greatness of Udi”.
This is offered to Sree Sadguru Sainath.
May there be auspiciousness!
Notes :
1.
Lord Krishna’s Dwarka.
2.
In the village of Turambhe, near Bellpur, in Thane District, a
lady by the name of Shantabai had a tubercular bone abscess on the
thumb of her left hand. She suffered from it for seven years. One
night, Maharaj told her in a dream : “You apply ‘dikemali”
(medicinal plant with strong smelling resin). When the lady woke
up, she felt very happy. She applied ‘dikemali’ to the abscess and
it got better. Then she wrote a post–card, with all this
information, to Maharaj. That card bears the date 1st September
1918.
3.
Hand rolled tobacco leaf indigenous cigarette.
4.
One who has acquired all the eight Siddhis.
5.
Baba’s devotee who cleaned the lamps and lighted them in the
Masjid.
6.
Abdulbhai was originally a resident of Nanded. But nine or ten
years before Maharaj’s Samadhi he had come to Shirdi to serve him
and stayed there. Even after the Samadhi, he took no remuneration
and continued to serve getting only clothes and food in return.
When Maharaj was in body he had a big load of work and he did it
with great love. Earlier he stayed in the Chavadi; and thereafter,
near the Dwarakamai. Even at night, instead of resting, he spent a
lot of time reciting the Koran. At home, he had his mother, wife
and son; but leaving them all he was living in Shirdi. His mother
and son came to Shirdi sometimes. His wife had also come once but
he had no attachment for any of them. His mother was worried about
the marriage of his son and she tried to arrange it with one
party. But she was bluntly told that as Abdulbhai had become a
fakir, they did not wish to give their daughter in marriage into
that family. Consequently, the mother came to Shirdi and
complained to Maharaj. Maharaj said: “Be patient and don’t be
worried. The boy will get a good wife; and the marriage will be
fixed by itself.” Of course, everything happened as Maharaj had
said. Once Abdulbhai’s mother and son had gone to some village.
They met a gentleman there and he insisted on offering his
daughter to them. Some people told him that the boy’s father had
become a fakir, whereupon he replied: “Even if I become a fakir,
there is no problem. I will give my daughter in marriage only to
this boy.” Accordingly, the marriage was celebrated immediately.
This gentleman had an elder daughter of a marriageable age. Her
marriage had been already fixed, but there was some time before
the marriage was to take place. Yet, without a delay, he got his
younger daughter married first, to Abdulbhai’s son.
7.
There are many such experiences of this udi. A gentleman by the
name of Narayan Gopinath Dighe used to live in Bombay. He
developed a tumor in his stomach. It was like a hard stone and he
began suffering a lot, due to it. He consulted one or two famous
doctors of Bombay, but it was of no use. Later, someone advised
him to go to Maharaj. Of course, it was not possible for him to go
in his condition. He said that if with the blessings of Maharaj,
this tumor would burst and be excreted he would feel better and
then be able to go to Maharaj. So that person gave Maharaj’s udi
to him. He began to be partake of it and the very next day the
tumor burst and the internal pus began to be excreted. After a few
more days, he felt better. Then, as soon as possible, he went for
Maharaj’s darshan.
Dr.Pillay
