31
The Greatness of Darshan
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, the stories of the devotee of Sapta
Shringi and how Sai got Madhavrao’s vow fulfilled were
narrated;
2.
also, how darshan was given in dreams to Khushal Sheth and
Ramlal; and how Ramlal was kept back till Baba’s
Mahasamadhi.
3.
The present story is more unique than those. Listeners may
hear it with great respect – how one sanyasi on his way to
Mansarovar attained liberation;
4.
also, how Mankar, Noolkar, and Megha’s objectives were
fulfilled. These were men; but even a cruel tiger was given
a place at Baba’s feet.
5.
These stories are very elaborate but the book will be
greatly lengthened, therefore, I will narrate briefly by
giving their essence, which will be beneficial to the
seekers.
6.
A person is re-born according to his thoughts at the time of
death. Insects, on account of fear, become bees; while King
Jadabharat was born as a deer on account of the deer that he
had reared and about whose welfare he remained concerned in
his last moments.
7.
A person is re-born in the form, which he is contemplating
at the time of death. The one who is humble at the feet of
God is not
re-born.
8.
This is the reason for advocating the practice of constant
chanting of the Lord’s name, so that one is not bewildered
at the time of death and one practises it at that time also.
9.
All the ‘sadhanas’ of a life time would be wasted if one is
not alert at the crucial moment and the good company of
Saints kept during the life would prove futile.
10.
Therefore, those devotees who are full of devotion entrust
their lives in the hands of Saints, because they alone know
whether there is re-birth or not. They are the only
companions at the end.
11.
The story, illustrating this point, happened in the presence
of Sai. The listeners will realise Sai’s love for the
devotees.
12.
How distant was Madras from Shirdi, and Shirdi from the
steep ascent of Mansarovar! But when the time was ripe, he
brought the devotees to his feet.
13.
Once, a Madrasi Sanyasi named Vijayanand left Madras for
Mansarovar with great enthusiasm.
14.
He had seen a Japanese traveller’s map of Mansarovar and
that gave him a great desire to have darshan.
15.
Shirdi was on the way and he had heard about Baba’s fame.
With a desire for darshan, he came searching for him.
16.
Hearing that Sai Maharaj was a great Saint, renowned and
known the world over, he desired to have darshan, so he
stopped over
enroute.
17.
Swami Somadevji of Hardwar was also there at Shirdi, at that
time. Both of them, naturally met at the gathering of the
devotees.
18.
The Sanyasi asked him how far Mansarovar was. The Swami told
him it was five hundred miles and the route lay above
Gangotri.
19.
“It snows heavily there. The dialect changes every fifty
koss. The Bhutanese are very suspicious and the travellers
are greatly harassed”.
20.
Hearing this information given by the Swami the Sanyasi was
distressed. He was in two minds and felt very worried.
21.
He took Sai Baba’s darshan and prostrated at his feet. He
felt highly pleased. He sat cross-legged in front of Baba.
22.
Then, Baba became furious and said to those present: “Drive
away the Sanyasi. His company is not worthwhile”.
23.
To begin with, the Sanyasi was a newcomer and did not know
Baba’s nature. Though he felt ashamed, he sat there
observing what was going on in the way of service.
24.
It was the morning durbar time and there were a lot of
people assembled in the Masjid. He was benumbed by watching
the devotees performing the ‘puja’ with the appropriate
rituals.
25.
Some washed Baba’s feet and collected the ‘tirth’ from his
toes in a small ladle. They drank it with pure devotion and
others touched it reverently to their eyes.
26.
Some applied sandalwood paste to him and some smeared his
body with fragrant attars. They all forgot the distinction
of their castes and whether they were Brahmins or Sudras.
27.
Though Baba was enraged with him, the Sanyasi felt
overflowing affection. He did not feel like leaving and he
did not get up, from where he was seated.
28.
He stayed in Shirdi for two days. In the meanwhile, he got a
letter informing him that his mother was ill at home. He was
saddened by that.
29.
He felt like going back home to be with his mother. But
without Baba’s permission, he could not take a step.
30.
Then, taking the letter in his hand the Sanyasi went to the
Masjid. He began to plead with Baba and to relate his
mother’s condition:
31.
“Maharaj, Sai Samartha, I am longing to meet my mother. Give
me your permission happily and bless me for my journey”.
32.
He fell at Baba’s feet and continued: “Won’t you grant me
your permission, as a favour? My mother is holding on to
life and is about to die, being bed-ridden.
33.
She must be waiting for me. So permit me to have a last look
at her. It will enable her to bear her pains and have a
peaceful end”.
34.
Sai Samartha was omniscient and knowing that the sanyasi’s
own death was near, hear what he said to him, with
attention:
35.
“If you were so fond of your mother, then why did you don
this garb (of a Sanyasi)? Attachment does not befit these
clothes. You have blemished this ochre garb.
36.
Go and sit and do not feel disheartened. Let a few days
pass. Then, we will think further. Do not lose patience and
courage.
37.
There are many thieves in the wada. Bolt all the doors and
be vigilant. They will rob you of all your possessions and
attack you ferociously.
38.
Wealth is not permanent and the body, that is always
transient. Knowing that death is always present, behave
according to the Shastras and remain awake to your ‘dharma’.
39.
In this world if one has pride about body, wife, children
etc., it leads to three-fold calamities. This is misery on
account of wordly existence.
40.
The second calamity relates to the desire for the realm of
heaven. Those who desire the other world, for them that also
is a hindrance to attain self-realisation. They are always
dejected.
41.
There (that is, in the other world) is no accumulation of
merits so there is no fearlessness. There is a fear of a
fall when the store of good deeds comes to an end.
42.
Therefore, enjoyment of both, this world and the next is
disastrous. Complete renunciation of both is needed to
derive eternal bliss.
43.
Those who are fed up with the worldly existence and have
surrendered at the feet of the Lord, the knots of their
attachment are loosened and the hold of ignorance is
removed.
44.
When one is unfailingly involved in singing the Lord’s Name,
the sins, sufferings and poverty disappear. The Lord runs
and helps him who meditates on him with love and affection.
45.
Your store of past merits is considerable, so you have come
here. Now attend to what I say and realise the greater
purpose of life.
46.
From tomorrow start reading the Bhagvat, truly. Do three
readings during three consecutive weeks, conscientiously.
47.
Being desireless, hear that book or read it with
concentration, and contemplate on it night and day.
48.
The Lord will be pleased and bring to an end all your
sorrows. Illusions and attachments will disappear and you
will attain great happiness.
49.
After performing your ablutions, concentrating on the Lord,
complete this vow that I have told you and you will be free
from attachments”.
50.
When his own end was nearing, Baba had arranged the reading
of Ram Vijay, which pleases the Lord of Death.
51.
The next day in the morning, after completing the ablutions
and his bath, he offered Baba a handful of flowers and took
the dust of his feet on his head.
52.
Carrying the Bhagvat under his arm he looked for a quiet
place to read and found Lendi Baug, peaceful and most
suitable.
53.
He sat cross-legged and started the reading. Being a
Sanyasi, love of God was in his nature and he completed two
readings in two weeks.
54.
When he started the third reading he suddenly felt uneasy.
He felt a weakness which increased. So he left that
unfinished.
55.
He returned to the wada and was very ill for two days. When
the third day dawned, Buva did not open his eyes.
56.
And placing his head on fakir Baba’s lap, the Sanyasi
breathed his last. He was released from the body.
57.
When Baba was informed about the Sanyasi’s death, he
instructed to keep the body for a day.
58.
“Do not bury him immediately”, said Baba. So the people
hoped that he would return to life and protected the body.
59.
Does life come again once a person is dead? But, in
obedience to Baba’s words, the body was taken care of.
60.
Ultimately, the words proved correct. The unclaimed body was
taken care of. The doubts of the police were removed (when
they made an inquiry). But, there was no question of his
coming to life again.
61.
Did Baba not know that the dead body would not regain life!
The only purpose was that there should be an inquiry before
burying the body.
62.
Since the government is responsible for the disposal of an
unclaimed corpse, a sudden death is always investigated.
Therefore, Baba had instructed not to bury the body before
hand.
63.
So be it. Later, everything happened. The last rites were
performed over the body and it was buried at a proper place.
The saint’s work was completed. (That is, of giving
liberation to the Sanyasi.)
64.
Here is another similar story, which I am going to narrate
to the listeners. Listen to it with respectful attention,
for a while. You will realise Sai’s pervasiveness.
65.
A householder, named Balaram Mankar, was a great devotee of
Baba.
66.
But, later, his wife died and there was an interruption in
the performance of his duties as a householder. He lost
peace of mind but he progressed towards the highest bliss.
67.
Because of the accumulation of good deeds in the previous
births, he got attached to Sai’s feet. He developed
unfailing faith there and was completely detached from his
worldly ties.
68.
Breaking all his ties with hopes, desires, children and
family, Mankar due to his uncommon fate, left the worldly
existence.
69.
The main obstacle in entering the gate of spirituality is
the desire to earn a livelihood and care for others. He
placed this burden on his son and locked himself away from
worldly concerns. (And went to Shirdi.)
70.
This too is a kind of Sanyas, of which there are many
varieties. But that which is not born of knowledge, and thus
impressed in the mind, leads to difficulties at every step.
71.
Therefore, this Sai, Generosity Incarnate, considering
Mankar’s singular devotion felt like gracing him and ensured
that his detachment was strengthened.
72.
The overlay of impressions of an infinite number of births
do not allow the fickle mind to become steady. The waves of
fond dreams are powerful and detachment is not firmly
rooted.
73.
“Shirdi alone is not my abode. I am beyond the limits of
time and space”. To prove this Baba ordered Mankar thus:
74.
“You have stayed in Shirdi long enough. Take these twelve
rupees, in cash, for expenses. Go to Macchindar Gad for
penance. Stay there determined to achieve happiness”.
75.
Hearing these words of Sai and, and deciding to obey his
orders, he bowed his head. Making an eight-fold prostration,
he paid obeisance at his feet.
76.
But with great humility Balaram said to Sai: “What should I
do in a place where I cannot have your darshan?
77.
Here I have the darshan of your feet daily, and obtain the
tirth of the washings of your feet and can meditate on you
day and night, without any effort. I shall be a destitute
there.
78.
Therefore, without you Baba, how can I achieve my welfare
there? I am incapable of understanding your idea in sending
me to that place”.
79.
But knowing that a devotee should never doubt, not even for
a fraction of a second, his Guru’s words, he felt immediate
remorse and Mankar’s doubts vanished.
80.
He said: “Baba forgive me. My thoughts were base. I am
ashamed that I had doubts. Doubts do not befit me.
81.
Ever under your command, absorbed in chanting the Lord’s
name, I will stay at the Gad only with protection of your
power.
82.
There also I will meditate upon you, I will remember your
merciful image, I will think only of your feet. This will
always be my penance.
83.
I am totally surrendered to you. I have entrusted all my
movements into your hands. Then why should I get this
thought in my mind?
84.
Because of the power of your command, I will get peace there
also. When I know your capability, why should I
unnecessarily worry?”
85.
Sai Samartha is Brahman Eternal. His words are as
unalterable as those written by Brahma. Whosoever believes
in them, will experience this.
86.
Then Baba said to him: “Be attentive and listen to my words.
Do not labour under any doubts.
87.
Go to Macchindar Gad immediately. Practise meditation thrice
daily. After some passage of time, you will have heavenly
bliss”.
88.
Hearing this assurance, Mankar remained silent. “What shall
I say, who is the humble one?” He prepared for his departure
to the Gad.
89.
Once again, bowing down at Sai’s feet and receiving udi and
blessings, Mankar then left for Macchindar Gad with a calm
mind.
90.
Arriving at that pleasant place, where there was pure, clean
water and cool breezes, he felt contented.
91.
So this Mankar, as directed by Sai, remained at the Gad
without Sai. He practised meditation as was told and
advised.
92.
Then, see Baba’s marvel! When Mankar was deep in meditation
he was given darshan in person at the Gad, and he had an
experience.
93.
There is nothing surprising in having darshan in the
‘Samadhi’ state of meditation. But this happened when he was
still seated and about to get up from the meditation. He saw
Sree Samartha.
94.
Not only did he see him, but Balakram asked him in person:
“Baba why did you send me here?” Hear what reply he gave.
95.
“While you were in Shirdi, you had many ideas and many waves
of thoughts arose. Therefore, for quietening your fickle
mind, I sent you to the Gad.
96.
You thought that I was in Shirdi, with a body composed of
the five elements and three and a half cubits in length, and
not outside it.
97.
Now you see and determine for yourself whether the person
you see here is the same as you saw in Shirdi. It is for
this reason that I sent you here”.
98.
So be it. Then, this Mankar after the completion of the
specified time was over, left Macchindar Gad to go to his
home.
99.
He felt like going to Baule, where he lived. So he decided
to travel by train from Pune to Dadar.
100. He went to the Pune station. When the time came for buying
the ticket and he was at the ticket-window, then a miracle
happened.
101. An unknown traveller with a loin cloth round his waist and a
rough blanket on his shoulder, with the appearance of being
a rustic, was seen near the ticket–window.
102. This rustic had just bought a ticket for Dadar, when turning
from the window, his eyes encountered those of Mankar’s. So
he approached him.
103.He asked: “Where are you going?” and when told “Dadar”,
he gave the ticket immediately saying: “you take it”.
104.“I too was going to Dadar but I have remembered some
important work for which I have to stay here. Hence I cannot
leave”.
105. Tickets were not easily available even after payment. When
it was offered without making any effort, Mankar was very
pleased.
106. Then, when he took out the money from his pocket to pay the
fare, the rustic had pushed into the crowd and it could not
be discovered where he had disappeared.
107. Balakram made all efforts to find the rustic but they were
all in vain. By that time the train came.
108. ‘Who was this rustic, bare footed and bare bodied, carrying
just a rough blanket and wearing a tattered cloth round his
head?
109. The money for the fare was not a small amount either and he
paid for it in cash from his own pocket! Why has he put me
under this obligation? I am unable to understand it!
110. He was generous and selfless. Who can this be appearing as a
rustic?’ This event ultimately remained a mystery. Mankar
was disturbed.
111. With all these questions working in his mind, he kept on
standing near the door of the compartment till the train
moved, in the hope of sighting him.
112. But as the train started to move and he lost all hope of
meeting him, he caught the handle of the door and jumped
into the train.
113. Meeting Baba personally at the Gad, and now this was another
strange incident! Recalling the rustic’s peculiar apparel,
Mankar felt restless.
114. So be it. Later this faithful devotee returned to Shirdi for
his welfare at Sai’s feet with singular attachment, firm
faith and devotion.
115. The devotee Balakramji stayed in Shirdi, buzzing around the
dust particles at the lotus feet of Sai, constantly humming
the name of Sai.
116. With Baba’s permission and in the company of Muktaramji,
sometimes he left Shirdi and travelled elsewhere.
117. But Shirdi was the main place to which he returned time and
again. At last he died on the sacred soil of Shirdi.
118. What a store of merits must be his, when a man leaves his
mortal coil in the presence of Sai and with his mind
concentrated on his feet! For him, death is without fear.
119. Blessed was Tatya Noolkar! And blessed was the great devotee
Megha! who ultimately breathed their last in Shirdi, while
worshipping Sai.
120. When Megha died see the importance given by Baba for his
cremation, and Baba’s affection towards the devotee. Megha
was already gratified.
121. Accompanied by all the devotees, the villagers went in
procession to the cremation ground. Baba also went to the
cremation ground, showering flowers on Megha.
122. After Megha’s last rites Baba’s eyes also filled with tears.
Like an ordinary being, with all attachments, he was full of
grief.
123. With love, Baba covered the body, with his own hands, with
plentiful flowers. After lamenting the death with pitiful
tones, he returned.
124. Many Saints have been observed to grant salvation to human
beings, but how can one adequately describe Sai Baba’s
greatness in this respect!
125. Can a fierce animal like a tiger have intelligence like a
human being? Yet, even he became humble at his feet.
Indescribable are Baba’s actions!
126. Listen to an interesting story illustrating this, with
careful attention. You will then realise Baba’s all
pervasive nature and the same concern that he had for all
living beings.
127. A miracle happened once in Shirdi. Seven days before Baba’s
Mahanirvan, a bullock cart came to the door of the courtyard
and stood there.
128. In it was a huge tiger, tightly tied with a chain round his
neck, with its fierce face facing the back.
129. The tiger was suffering from some disease. His owners who
were dervishes having failed to cure him so far, decided to
bring him to a Saint, which is the best and last resort.
130. There were three dervishes and the tiger was the means of
their livelihood. By exhibiting him, from village to
village, they earned their bread.
131. While they were in the vicinity, they heard of Baba’s
‘leelas’ and decided to have darshan along with the tiger.
They said: “Let us go and take darshan, and take the tiger
also.
132. His feet are like the wish – fulfilling gem; the eight
siddhis prostrate at his feet; the nine – nidhis roll at his
feet; and take the tirth from the washings of his feet.
133. Let us go and place our heads at his feet and ask blessings
for the tiger. All of us will achieve our welfare, if we are
favoured with his words of blessings”.
134. For this purpose, those dervishes made the tiger get down
near the door of the Masjid. Holding the chain firmly they
stood waiting at the door.
135. To begin with, the tiger was very fierce and frightful.
Moreover it was ridden with an incurable malady. Therefore
it was very restless. Everyone was watching fascinated.
136. The dervishes told Baba about the condition of the tiger in
detail and after getting Baba’s consent came to the door to
fetch him.
137. Securing his chain tighter lest he should break loose, they
brought him before Baba with care.
138. When the tiger came near the steps, seeing Sai’s divine
effulgence, it is difficult to explain, why he was taken
aback and hung his head down with great reverence.
139. Then, observe the miracle! As the tiger climbed the steps,
and they saw each other, the tiger looked at Baba with love.
140. It fluffed the tuft of its tail and thrashed the ground
thrice with it. Then fell lifeless at Sai’s feet.
141. He gave just one mighty roar and fell down dead at that very
spot. The people were surprised that the tiger had died.
142. The dervishes were at first much dejected. But later, they
seemed glad that this diseased animal, who was expected to
die, had attained a release.
143. Death in the presence of Saints and Sages is immensely
meritorious, whether it be a worm, an insect or a tiger. All
their sins are pardoned.
144.“This tiger must have been indebted to us in the past life,
which he repaid and became free of debt. He died at the feet
of Sai. Wonderful are the workings of fate!”
145. Anyone who dies while placing the head at the feet of a
Saint, he gets himself delivered and gains the benefits of a
lifetime.
146. Unless one is very fortunate, can one merely leave the body
in the presence of a Saint? He will attain salvation.
147. It is immense bliss to leave one’s body in the presence of a
Saint. Even the poison becomes nectar. Death is a pleasure
and not a sorrow.
148. One who dies, in the presence of and at the feet of a Saint,
is blessed and is merged with God, never to be born again.
149. Dying in the presence of Saints is not death but the bliss
of heaven. He has won the transient world and has no worry
about re-birth.
150. One who leaves the body in the presence of Saints does not
return to this world. All the sins are pardoned, by that,
and he is rescued.
151. One who dies looking at a Saint, from the head to his toe
nails, can that be called death? It is true selfrealisation.
152. Considering the earlier life’s achievements, this tiger must
have been a virtuous person; but while showing off his
pedantic pride slighted some great devotee of God.
153. On account of his (devotee’s) curse, he took birth in this
cruel form. But by the mitigation of the curse, he came to
Sai’ feet. Strange are the ways of the great devotees!
154. It appears that the curse was mitigated. His sins were
destroyed by Sai’s darshan. His bondage was broken, his
penance was done and he gained salvation effortlessly.
155. Unless one has perfect blessings (good fortune), how can one
die in the presence of a saint? The three fold affliction,
the trio of your object and action, and the three gunas are
annihilated. He becomes formless.
156. Thus, because of the merits of past life, he was freed from
the bondage of this cruel body and also from the iron
chains. This can only be God’s decision.
157. If not at the feet of Saints and Sages, where else could
there be salvation? When this tiger attained it, the
dervishes were pleased.
158. The tiger was their means of livelihood and also the means
of sustaining their families. Therefore, when this tiger
died, the dervishes felt sad, also.
159. The dervishes asked Maharaj: “What should we do now? How
should we bury him? Give him salvation with your own hand”.
160. Maharaj said: “Do not grieve. He was destined to die here.
He was very meritorious and has now achieved great
happiness.
161. Beyond that Takkia, where there is the Shiva temple, take
him there and bury him, near Nandi.
162. If you bury him, he will get salvation. He will be freed
from your debt and attachment at your hands only.
163. Being indebted to you in the past life, he has taken this
birth to repay your debt. Therefore, he remained your
captive till to-day”.
164. Then the dervishes picked him up and went towards the
temple. They buried him behind the Nandi.
165. What a miracle happened! How did the tiger suddenly die? If
only this much had happened, the people would have
forgotten.
166. But, only seven days after this Baba himself left the mortal
coil. Because of that, the memory of this incident arises
often.
167. The next chapter is more interesting than this. Baba himself
tells about the marvels of his Guru to satisfy Gokhale Bai’s
wishes and to grant her grace.
168.
Hemad surrenders to Sai. Listen to how Baba attained the
grace of his Guru, who hanged him upside down over a well.
May there be well-being! This is the end of the thirty-first
chapter of the Sree Sai Samartha Satcharita, written by the
devotee Hemadpant, impelled by the Saints and virtuous people,
called the “The Greatness of Darshan”.
This is offered to Sree Sadguru Sainath.
May there be auspiciousness!
Tatyasaheb Nulkar Tatyasaheb Nulkar
Blessed was Tatya Noolkar! And blessed was the great devotee Megha! who ultimately
breathed their last in Shirdi, while worshipping Sai. (Ch. 31, ovi 119)
The Greatness of Darshan
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, the stories of the devotee of Sapta
Shringi and how Sai got Madhavrao’s vow fulfilled were
narrated;
2.
also, how darshan was given in dreams to Khushal Sheth and
Ramlal; and how Ramlal was kept back till Baba’s
Mahasamadhi.
3.
The present story is more unique than those. Listeners may
hear it with great respect – how one sanyasi on his way to
Mansarovar attained liberation;
4.
also, how Mankar, Noolkar, and Megha’s objectives were
fulfilled. These were men; but even a cruel tiger was given
a place at Baba’s feet.
5.
These stories are very elaborate but the book will be
greatly lengthened, therefore, I will narrate briefly by
giving their essence, which will be beneficial to the
seekers.
6.
A person is re-born according to his thoughts at the time of
death. Insects, on account of fear, become bees; while King
Jadabharat was born as a deer on account of the deer that he
had reared and about whose welfare he remained concerned in
his last moments.
7.
A person is re-born in the form, which he is contemplating
at the time of death. The one who is humble at the feet of
God is not
re-born.
8.
This is the reason for advocating the practice of constant
chanting of the Lord’s name, so that one is not bewildered
at the time of death and one practises it at that time also.
9.
All the ‘sadhanas’ of a life time would be wasted if one is
not alert at the crucial moment and the good company of
Saints kept during the life would prove futile.
10.
Therefore, those devotees who are full of devotion entrust
their lives in the hands of Saints, because they alone know
whether there is re-birth or not. They are the only
companions at the end.
11.
The story, illustrating this point, happened in the presence
of Sai. The listeners will realise Sai’s love for the
devotees.
12.
How distant was Madras from Shirdi, and Shirdi from the
steep ascent of Mansarovar! But when the time was ripe, he
brought the devotees to his feet.
13.
Once, a Madrasi Sanyasi named Vijayanand left Madras for
Mansarovar with great enthusiasm.
14.
He had seen a Japanese traveller’s map of Mansarovar and
that gave him a great desire to have darshan.
15.
Shirdi was on the way and he had heard about Baba’s fame.
With a desire for darshan, he came searching for him.
16.
Hearing that Sai Maharaj was a great Saint, renowned and
known the world over, he desired to have darshan, so he
stopped over
enroute.
17.
Swami Somadevji of Hardwar was also there at Shirdi, at that
time. Both of them, naturally met at the gathering of the
devotees.
18.
The Sanyasi asked him how far Mansarovar was. The Swami told
him it was five hundred miles and the route lay above
Gangotri.
19.
“It snows heavily there. The dialect changes every fifty
koss. The Bhutanese are very suspicious and the travellers
are greatly harassed”.
20.
Hearing this information given by the Swami the Sanyasi was
distressed. He was in two minds and felt very worried.
21.
He took Sai Baba’s darshan and prostrated at his feet. He
felt highly pleased. He sat cross-legged in front of Baba.
22.
Then, Baba became furious and said to those present: “Drive
away the Sanyasi. His company is not worthwhile”.
23.
To begin with, the Sanyasi was a newcomer and did not know
Baba’s nature. Though he felt ashamed, he sat there
observing what was going on in the way of service.
24.
It was the morning durbar time and there were a lot of
people assembled in the Masjid. He was benumbed by watching
the devotees performing the ‘puja’ with the appropriate
rituals.
25.
Some washed Baba’s feet and collected the ‘tirth’ from his
toes in a small ladle. They drank it with pure devotion and
others touched it reverently to their eyes.
26.
Some applied sandalwood paste to him and some smeared his
body with fragrant attars. They all forgot the distinction
of their castes and whether they were Brahmins or Sudras.
27.
Though Baba was enraged with him, the Sanyasi felt
overflowing affection. He did not feel like leaving and he
did not get up, from where he was seated.
28.
He stayed in Shirdi for two days. In the meanwhile, he got a
letter informing him that his mother was ill at home. He was
saddened by that.
29.
He felt like going back home to be with his mother. But
without Baba’s permission, he could not take a step.
30.
Then, taking the letter in his hand the Sanyasi went to the
Masjid. He began to plead with Baba and to relate his
mother’s condition:
31.
“Maharaj, Sai Samartha, I am longing to meet my mother. Give
me your permission happily and bless me for my journey”.
32.
He fell at Baba’s feet and continued: “Won’t you grant me
your permission, as a favour? My mother is holding on to
life and is about to die, being bed-ridden.
33.
She must be waiting for me. So permit me to have a last look
at her. It will enable her to bear her pains and have a
peaceful end”.
34.
Sai Samartha was omniscient and knowing that the sanyasi’s
own death was near, hear what he said to him, with
attention:
35.
“If you were so fond of your mother, then why did you don
this garb (of a Sanyasi)? Attachment does not befit these
clothes. You have blemished this ochre garb.
36.
Go and sit and do not feel disheartened. Let a few days
pass. Then, we will think further. Do not lose patience and
courage.
37.
There are many thieves in the wada. Bolt all the doors and
be vigilant. They will rob you of all your possessions and
attack you ferociously.
38.
Wealth is not permanent and the body, that is always
transient. Knowing that death is always present, behave
according to the Shastras and remain awake to your ‘dharma’.
39.
In this world if one has pride about body, wife, children
etc., it leads to three-fold calamities. This is misery on
account of wordly existence.
40.
The second calamity relates to the desire for the realm of
heaven. Those who desire the other world, for them that also
is a hindrance to attain self-realisation. They are always
dejected.
41.
There (that is, in the other world) is no accumulation of
merits so there is no fearlessness. There is a fear of a
fall when the store of good deeds comes to an end.
42.
Therefore, enjoyment of both, this world and the next is
disastrous. Complete renunciation of both is needed to
derive eternal bliss.
43.
Those who are fed up with the worldly existence and have
surrendered at the feet of the Lord, the knots of their
attachment are loosened and the hold of ignorance is
removed.
44.
When one is unfailingly involved in singing the Lord’s Name,
the sins, sufferings and poverty disappear. The Lord runs
and helps him who meditates on him with love and affection.
45.
Your store of past merits is considerable, so you have come
here. Now attend to what I say and realise the greater
purpose of life.
46.
From tomorrow start reading the Bhagvat, truly. Do three
readings during three consecutive weeks, conscientiously.
47.
Being desireless, hear that book or read it with
concentration, and contemplate on it night and day.
48.
The Lord will be pleased and bring to an end all your
sorrows. Illusions and attachments will disappear and you
will attain great happiness.
49.
After performing your ablutions, concentrating on the Lord,
complete this vow that I have told you and you will be free
from attachments”.
50.
When his own end was nearing, Baba had arranged the reading
of Ram Vijay, which pleases the Lord of Death.
51.
The next day in the morning, after completing the ablutions
and his bath, he offered Baba a handful of flowers and took
the dust of his feet on his head.
52.
Carrying the Bhagvat under his arm he looked for a quiet
place to read and found Lendi Baug, peaceful and most
suitable.
53.
He sat cross-legged and started the reading. Being a
Sanyasi, love of God was in his nature and he completed two
readings in two weeks.
54.
When he started the third reading he suddenly felt uneasy.
He felt a weakness which increased. So he left that
unfinished.
55.
He returned to the wada and was very ill for two days. When
the third day dawned, Buva did not open his eyes.
56.
And placing his head on fakir Baba’s lap, the Sanyasi
breathed his last. He was released from the body.
57.
When Baba was informed about the Sanyasi’s death, he
instructed to keep the body for a day.
58.
“Do not bury him immediately”, said Baba. So the people
hoped that he would return to life and protected the body.
59.
Does life come again once a person is dead? But, in
obedience to Baba’s words, the body was taken care of.
60.
Ultimately, the words proved correct. The unclaimed body was
taken care of. The doubts of the police were removed (when
they made an inquiry). But, there was no question of his
coming to life again.
61.
Did Baba not know that the dead body would not regain life!
The only purpose was that there should be an inquiry before
burying the body.
62.
Since the government is responsible for the disposal of an
unclaimed corpse, a sudden death is always investigated.
Therefore, Baba had instructed not to bury the body before
hand.
63.
So be it. Later, everything happened. The last rites were
performed over the body and it was buried at a proper place.
The saint’s work was completed. (That is, of giving
liberation to the Sanyasi.)
64.
Here is another similar story, which I am going to narrate
to the listeners. Listen to it with respectful attention,
for a while. You will realise Sai’s pervasiveness.
65.
A householder, named Balaram Mankar, was a great devotee of
Baba.
66.
But, later, his wife died and there was an interruption in
the performance of his duties as a householder. He lost
peace of mind but he progressed towards the highest bliss.
67.
Because of the accumulation of good deeds in the previous
births, he got attached to Sai’s feet. He developed
unfailing faith there and was completely detached from his
worldly ties.
68.
Breaking all his ties with hopes, desires, children and
family, Mankar due to his uncommon fate, left the worldly
existence.
69.
The main obstacle in entering the gate of spirituality is
the desire to earn a livelihood and care for others. He
placed this burden on his son and locked himself away from
worldly concerns. (And went to Shirdi.)
70.
This too is a kind of Sanyas, of which there are many
varieties. But that which is not born of knowledge, and thus
impressed in the mind, leads to difficulties at every step.
71.
Therefore, this Sai, Generosity Incarnate, considering
Mankar’s singular devotion felt like gracing him and ensured
that his detachment was strengthened.
72.
The overlay of impressions of an infinite number of births
do not allow the fickle mind to become steady. The waves of
fond dreams are powerful and detachment is not firmly
rooted.
73.
“Shirdi alone is not my abode. I am beyond the limits of
time and space”. To prove this Baba ordered Mankar thus:
74.
“You have stayed in Shirdi long enough. Take these twelve
rupees, in cash, for expenses. Go to Macchindar Gad for
penance. Stay there determined to achieve happiness”.
75.
Hearing these words of Sai and, and deciding to obey his
orders, he bowed his head. Making an eight-fold prostration,
he paid obeisance at his feet.
76.
But with great humility Balaram said to Sai: “What should I
do in a place where I cannot have your darshan?
77.
Here I have the darshan of your feet daily, and obtain the
tirth of the washings of your feet and can meditate on you
day and night, without any effort. I shall be a destitute
there.
78.
Therefore, without you Baba, how can I achieve my welfare
there? I am incapable of understanding your idea in sending
me to that place”.
79.
But knowing that a devotee should never doubt, not even for
a fraction of a second, his Guru’s words, he felt immediate
remorse and Mankar’s doubts vanished.
80.
He said: “Baba forgive me. My thoughts were base. I am
ashamed that I had doubts. Doubts do not befit me.
81.
Ever under your command, absorbed in chanting the Lord’s
name, I will stay at the Gad only with protection of your
power.
82.
There also I will meditate upon you, I will remember your
merciful image, I will think only of your feet. This will
always be my penance.
83.
I am totally surrendered to you. I have entrusted all my
movements into your hands. Then why should I get this
thought in my mind?
84.
Because of the power of your command, I will get peace there
also. When I know your capability, why should I
unnecessarily worry?”
85.
Sai Samartha is Brahman Eternal. His words are as
unalterable as those written by Brahma. Whosoever believes
in them, will experience this.
86.
Then Baba said to him: “Be attentive and listen to my words.
Do not labour under any doubts.
87.
Go to Macchindar Gad immediately. Practise meditation thrice
daily. After some passage of time, you will have heavenly
bliss”.
88.
Hearing this assurance, Mankar remained silent. “What shall
I say, who is the humble one?” He prepared for his departure
to the Gad.
89.
Once again, bowing down at Sai’s feet and receiving udi and
blessings, Mankar then left for Macchindar Gad with a calm
mind.
90.
Arriving at that pleasant place, where there was pure, clean
water and cool breezes, he felt contented.
91.
So this Mankar, as directed by Sai, remained at the Gad
without Sai. He practised meditation as was told and
advised.
92.
Then, see Baba’s marvel! When Mankar was deep in meditation
he was given darshan in person at the Gad, and he had an
experience.
93.
There is nothing surprising in having darshan in the
‘Samadhi’ state of meditation. But this happened when he was
still seated and about to get up from the meditation. He saw
Sree Samartha.
94.
Not only did he see him, but Balakram asked him in person:
“Baba why did you send me here?” Hear what reply he gave.
95.
“While you were in Shirdi, you had many ideas and many waves
of thoughts arose. Therefore, for quietening your fickle
mind, I sent you to the Gad.
96.
You thought that I was in Shirdi, with a body composed of
the five elements and three and a half cubits in length, and
not outside it.
97.
Now you see and determine for yourself whether the person
you see here is the same as you saw in Shirdi. It is for
this reason that I sent you here”.
98.
So be it. Then, this Mankar after the completion of the
specified time was over, left Macchindar Gad to go to his
home.
99.
He felt like going to Baule, where he lived. So he decided
to travel by train from Pune to Dadar.
100. He went to the Pune station. When the time came for buying
the ticket and he was at the ticket-window, then a miracle
happened.
101. An unknown traveller with a loin cloth round his waist and a
rough blanket on his shoulder, with the appearance of being
a rustic, was seen near the ticket–window.
102. This rustic had just bought a ticket for Dadar, when turning
from the window, his eyes encountered those of Mankar’s. So
he approached him.
103.He asked: “Where are you going?” and when told “Dadar”,
he gave the ticket immediately saying: “you take it”.
104.“I too was going to Dadar but I have remembered some
important work for which I have to stay here. Hence I cannot
leave”.
105. Tickets were not easily available even after payment. When
it was offered without making any effort, Mankar was very
pleased.
106. Then, when he took out the money from his pocket to pay the
fare, the rustic had pushed into the crowd and it could not
be discovered where he had disappeared.
107. Balakram made all efforts to find the rustic but they were
all in vain. By that time the train came.
108. ‘Who was this rustic, bare footed and bare bodied, carrying
just a rough blanket and wearing a tattered cloth round his
head?
109. The money for the fare was not a small amount either and he
paid for it in cash from his own pocket! Why has he put me
under this obligation? I am unable to understand it!
110. He was generous and selfless. Who can this be appearing as a
rustic?’ This event ultimately remained a mystery. Mankar
was disturbed.
111. With all these questions working in his mind, he kept on
standing near the door of the compartment till the train
moved, in the hope of sighting him.
112. But as the train started to move and he lost all hope of
meeting him, he caught the handle of the door and jumped
into the train.
113. Meeting Baba personally at the Gad, and now this was another
strange incident! Recalling the rustic’s peculiar apparel,
Mankar felt restless.
114. So be it. Later this faithful devotee returned to Shirdi for
his welfare at Sai’s feet with singular attachment, firm
faith and devotion.
115. The devotee Balakramji stayed in Shirdi, buzzing around the
dust particles at the lotus feet of Sai, constantly humming
the name of Sai.
116. With Baba’s permission and in the company of Muktaramji,
sometimes he left Shirdi and travelled elsewhere.
117. But Shirdi was the main place to which he returned time and
again. At last he died on the sacred soil of Shirdi.
118. What a store of merits must be his, when a man leaves his
mortal coil in the presence of Sai and with his mind
concentrated on his feet! For him, death is without fear.
119. Blessed was Tatya Noolkar! And blessed was the great devotee
Megha! who ultimately breathed their last in Shirdi, while
worshipping Sai.
120. When Megha died see the importance given by Baba for his
cremation, and Baba’s affection towards the devotee. Megha
was already gratified.
121. Accompanied by all the devotees, the villagers went in
procession to the cremation ground. Baba also went to the
cremation ground, showering flowers on Megha.
122. After Megha’s last rites Baba’s eyes also filled with tears.
Like an ordinary being, with all attachments, he was full of
grief.
123. With love, Baba covered the body, with his own hands, with
plentiful flowers. After lamenting the death with pitiful
tones, he returned.
124. Many Saints have been observed to grant salvation to human
beings, but how can one adequately describe Sai Baba’s
greatness in this respect!
125. Can a fierce animal like a tiger have intelligence like a
human being? Yet, even he became humble at his feet.
Indescribable are Baba’s actions!
126. Listen to an interesting story illustrating this, with
careful attention. You will then realise Baba’s all
pervasive nature and the same concern that he had for all
living beings.
127. A miracle happened once in Shirdi. Seven days before Baba’s
Mahanirvan, a bullock cart came to the door of the courtyard
and stood there.
128. In it was a huge tiger, tightly tied with a chain round his
neck, with its fierce face facing the back.
129. The tiger was suffering from some disease. His owners who
were dervishes having failed to cure him so far, decided to
bring him to a Saint, which is the best and last resort.
130. There were three dervishes and the tiger was the means of
their livelihood. By exhibiting him, from village to
village, they earned their bread.
131. While they were in the vicinity, they heard of Baba’s
‘leelas’ and decided to have darshan along with the tiger.
They said: “Let us go and take darshan, and take the tiger
also.
132. His feet are like the wish – fulfilling gem; the eight
siddhis prostrate at his feet; the nine – nidhis roll at his
feet; and take the tirth from the washings of his feet.
133. Let us go and place our heads at his feet and ask blessings
for the tiger. All of us will achieve our welfare, if we are
favoured with his words of blessings”.
134. For this purpose, those dervishes made the tiger get down
near the door of the Masjid. Holding the chain firmly they
stood waiting at the door.
135. To begin with, the tiger was very fierce and frightful.
Moreover it was ridden with an incurable malady. Therefore
it was very restless. Everyone was watching fascinated.
136. The dervishes told Baba about the condition of the tiger in
detail and after getting Baba’s consent came to the door to
fetch him.
137. Securing his chain tighter lest he should break loose, they
brought him before Baba with care.
138. When the tiger came near the steps, seeing Sai’s divine
effulgence, it is difficult to explain, why he was taken
aback and hung his head down with great reverence.
139. Then, observe the miracle! As the tiger climbed the steps,
and they saw each other, the tiger looked at Baba with love.
140. It fluffed the tuft of its tail and thrashed the ground
thrice with it. Then fell lifeless at Sai’s feet.
141. He gave just one mighty roar and fell down dead at that very
spot. The people were surprised that the tiger had died.
142. The dervishes were at first much dejected. But later, they
seemed glad that this diseased animal, who was expected to
die, had attained a release.
143. Death in the presence of Saints and Sages is immensely
meritorious, whether it be a worm, an insect or a tiger. All
their sins are pardoned.
144.“This tiger must have been indebted to us in the past life,
which he repaid and became free of debt. He died at the feet
of Sai. Wonderful are the workings of fate!”
145. Anyone who dies while placing the head at the feet of a
Saint, he gets himself delivered and gains the benefits of a
lifetime.
146. Unless one is very fortunate, can one merely leave the body
in the presence of a Saint? He will attain salvation.
147. It is immense bliss to leave one’s body in the presence of a
Saint. Even the poison becomes nectar. Death is a pleasure
and not a sorrow.
148. One who dies, in the presence of and at the feet of a Saint,
is blessed and is merged with God, never to be born again.
149. Dying in the presence of Saints is not death but the bliss
of heaven. He has won the transient world and has no worry
about re-birth.
150. One who leaves the body in the presence of Saints does not
return to this world. All the sins are pardoned, by that,
and he is rescued.
151. One who dies looking at a Saint, from the head to his toe
nails, can that be called death? It is true selfrealisation.
152. Considering the earlier life’s achievements, this tiger must
have been a virtuous person; but while showing off his
pedantic pride slighted some great devotee of God.
153. On account of his (devotee’s) curse, he took birth in this
cruel form. But by the mitigation of the curse, he came to
Sai’ feet. Strange are the ways of the great devotees!
154. It appears that the curse was mitigated. His sins were
destroyed by Sai’s darshan. His bondage was broken, his
penance was done and he gained salvation effortlessly.
155. Unless one has perfect blessings (good fortune), how can one
die in the presence of a saint? The three fold affliction,
the trio of your object and action, and the three gunas are
annihilated. He becomes formless.
156. Thus, because of the merits of past life, he was freed from
the bondage of this cruel body and also from the iron
chains. This can only be God’s decision.
157. If not at the feet of Saints and Sages, where else could
there be salvation? When this tiger attained it, the
dervishes were pleased.
158. The tiger was their means of livelihood and also the means
of sustaining their families. Therefore, when this tiger
died, the dervishes felt sad, also.
159. The dervishes asked Maharaj: “What should we do now? How
should we bury him? Give him salvation with your own hand”.
160. Maharaj said: “Do not grieve. He was destined to die here.
He was very meritorious and has now achieved great
happiness.
161. Beyond that Takkia, where there is the Shiva temple, take
him there and bury him, near Nandi.
162. If you bury him, he will get salvation. He will be freed
from your debt and attachment at your hands only.
163. Being indebted to you in the past life, he has taken this
birth to repay your debt. Therefore, he remained your
captive till to-day”.
164. Then the dervishes picked him up and went towards the
temple. They buried him behind the Nandi.
165. What a miracle happened! How did the tiger suddenly die? If
only this much had happened, the people would have
forgotten.
166. But, only seven days after this Baba himself left the mortal
coil. Because of that, the memory of this incident arises
often.
167. The next chapter is more interesting than this. Baba himself
tells about the marvels of his Guru to satisfy Gokhale Bai’s
wishes and to grant her grace.
168.
Hemad surrenders to Sai. Listen to how Baba attained the
grace of his Guru, who hanged him upside down over a well.
May there be well-being! This is the end of the thirty-first
chapter of the Sree Sai Samartha Satcharita, written by the
devotee Hemadpant, impelled by the Saints and virtuous people,
called the “The Greatness of Darshan”.
This is offered to Sree Sadguru Sainath.
May there be auspiciousness!
Tatyasaheb Nulkar Tatyasaheb Nulkar
Blessed was Tatya Noolkar! And blessed was the great devotee Megha! who ultimately
breathed their last in Shirdi, while worshipping Sai. (Ch. 31, ovi 119)
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