53.
“Avataranika” (Epitome)
I bow down to Sree Ganesh
I bow down to Sree Saraswati
I bow down to the Guru
I bow down to the Family Deity
I bow down to Sree Sita-Ramachandra
I bow down to Sree Sadguru Sainath.
1.
Sree Sai is truly Brahman incarnate; the greatest among the
saints, the Lord Paramount, whose fame has reached every
corner of the earth and is the grantor of intelligence and
inspiration.
2.
I surrender to him with whole-hearted devotion. I do
obeisance at his holy feet. He removes the fear of this
mundane existence, and breaks the cycle of birth and death.
3.
In the previous chapter it had been promised to give a
review and then a table of contents or index, before
concluding the book.
4.
Though Pant Hemad said so, it did not happen that way. The
table of contents was not drawn up or was overlooked.
5.
He who starts the book should himself complete it, by
giving the table of contents in the end. This is the usual
procedure.
6.
But there are exceptions to a rule; and this can be seen
here itself. Nothing happens as one wishes. Only Baba’s
wishes are over-riding.
7.
Hemad died unexpectedly. Everyone was sorrowful. The table
of contents was not to be traced; and everyone was confused.
8.
Annasaheb’s records were difficult to find. His son, Shri
Gajanan, made efforts to look and gave me whatever was
needed.
9.
Annasaheb was thrifty and did not waste even a scrap of
paper. He worked with grace and tidiness, as was his nature.
10.
He wrote a chapter on bits of paper and gave them, as is, to
the printer. Unnecessary expense hurt him. He could not be
compared to anyone else.
11.
He felt pity for those lifeless, helpless scraps of paper.
How would they be uplifted unless they served the lion
amongst the saints i.e. Sree Sai Baba?
12.
Hemad must have felt this way and, therefore, collected
these scraps of paper, so that they could also serve. That
must have been the exalted intention.
13.
The last chapter must have been done in the same way, and
must have been written on scraps of paper. A lot of thought
was given to the problem, yet the index could not be found
amongst the bits of paper.
14.
The matter was told to Gajananrao and others. It was also
told to Babasaheb Tarkhad, the Treasurer of the Shirdi
Sansthan. All of them were of the opinion that the index
should be there.
15.
Babasaheb fixed a time limit and published this also in the
Sree Sai Leela. The time lapsed, yet the index did not come
forth.
16.
Hemad, Govind, was a mine of virtues. He knew the Vedant by
heart which was at his command. His book exhibited the
Guru’s grace, like ‘prasad’. Incredible was the Guru’s
grace.
17.
Innumerable were the devotees of Sadguru Sai from amongst
whom Hemadpant was a gem of a poet. Only someone, who was as
knowledgeable as he was, would be capable of writing it.
18.
The index did not come forth from anywhere. I felt very
dejected. I prayed to Duttaguru, Sree Saibaba, and pleaded
for his mercy.
19.
I am dull-witted and insignificant, without studious
contemplation or even a trace of knowledge. Being totally
devoid of poetic tendency, how could I compose verses!
20.
But there was one support that I had. When Sree Duttaguru is
favourable, even the Meru mountain can be lifted as easily
as a mosquito. His powers are great.
21.
Again I prayed to Umaraman Shiva, so that Sai Narayana would
become merciful and give me the inspiration to write the
index immediately.
22.
I do not have the capacity to compose poetry. Sree Gururaya
is aware of my limitations. Placing my head at his feet, I
shall begin writing the index.
23.
This part of the book, viz. the index, will be composed by
Sai Vakratunda (Ganapati). His grandeur is unparalleled and
immense. My mouth is only his instrument.
24.
In the first chapter is the invocation to the remover of
difficulties and the cause of the Universe, to the ornament
round the neck of Uma and Shiva – obeisance to Sree Ganesha.
25.
Obeisance also to the wonderful Goddess of Speech, full of
wisdom, Sree Sharada, who entices the world and is the
grantor of whatever is desired.
26.
Obeisance to the Lord Sai, the Family Deity, the relations,
the Guru brethren, the saints and virtuous people who are
incarnations of God; and surrender to the Sadguru, who is
the abode of salvation.
27.
By narrating the story of the grinding of the wheat and how
the cholera epidemic was removed was explained and the
powers and greatness of Sai were described.
28.
In the second chapter, the purpose for writing the book
is given, also the naming of Hemadpant, the end of the
debate of the necessity of a Guru and the first darshan of
Hemad.
29.
In the third chapter it has been fully explained how the
permission was given for writing the book by Sai’s own words
and the story about the Rohilla.
30.
Next, the reason for the appearance of saints and sages, who
are ornaments of the Ruler of the World, on the earth, has
been explained in detail.
31.
And the first arrival of Sai, Avatar of Dutta, Son of Atri,
the wish-fulfilling tree, in Shirdi village – all that is
described in the fourth.
32.
The disappearance from Shirdi village and the re-appearance
in the company of the well-to-do Patil which surprised all;
33.
the gathering of Gangagir and other saints, the carrying of
water in pots on his own head from afar to create a garden
is all fully mentioned in the fifth.
34.
In the sixth chapter, the big festival of Ramnavami where
Bala Buva was the Kirtankar and the renovation of the Masjid
is narrated in detail.
35.
Next is about yogic practices of Samadhi, Khandayog, Dhoti-
Poti etc., whether Baba was a Hindu or a Muslim; the
unfathomable inner self of a Saint;
36.
Baba’s dress, behaviour, giving of medicines, smoking of
‘chillum’, caste, ‘dhuni’, lamps, his illness, and service
to him -incomprehensible was the sight of all this!
37.
The seventh by the learned poet excellently narrates matters
about Bhagoji Shinde’s leprosy, the medicine for the plague
affecting Khaparde’s son and Nana’s Pandharpur ‘darshan’
idea.
38.
The unique greatness of human birth, the description of the
mode in which Sai asked for alms, the service of Bayjabai to
the saints and the offering of food to Baba with her own
hands;
39.
how Baba, Tatya and Mhalsapati, all three of them, slept in
the Masjid at night and Baba’s excessive love for both of
them, which was identical;
40.
and the mutual love of Baba who was the repository of peace
and knowledge, and Kushalchand of Rahta village is all
delightfully narrated in the eighth chapter.
41.
How greatly Tatyasaheb Noolkar, and Tatya Patil, who were
great devotees, as well as the English gentleman repented
for not following instructions;
42.
how Baba made an offering to the five elements before
savouring the food which had been given as alms, how Baba
was qualified to seek alms is cleverly explained;
43.
and the excellent story of how the famous Babasaheb Tarkhad,
the staunch Prathna Samajist, became a devotee of Sai,
whole-heartedly, are all given in the ninth chapter.
44.
Yogeshwar Baba’s bed, of a plank four-hands long and a span
in width, hung from the rafters;
45.
a touching account of when Baba first arrived in Shirdi, how
many years he lived there and when he left the mortal coil;
46.
though calm and desireless within, outwardly demonstrating a
demonic nature and Gururaya’s unfailing inclination to lead
the people together on a particular path;
47.
the Sadguru’s tremendous skill in teaching the Ved-shastras
and the essence of religion, spirituality and the code of
behaviour, and testing the intellects of the devotees as
well as the non-devotees;
48.
Baba’s usual seat, Baba’s knowledge, Baba’s meditation and
Baba’s dwelling – his power and his greatness – are fully
described in the tenth chapter.
49.
Baba’s fame everywhere as being the embodiment of
Satchitanand, Doctor Pandit’s loving devotion, and the
narration of the behaviour of Siddique (Falke);
50.
his control over the clouds, his incredible power over fire
and his protection from strong winds are interestingly
described in the eleventh;
51.
Kaka (Mahajani), Dhumal, Nimonkar, a Mamlatdar and a Doctor
— different incidents about each of them were narrated
sweetly.
52.
And the unique Sai ‘darshan’ of the Agnihotri from Nashik,
the doubting Muley, a disciple of Saint Gholapram, in the
twelfth chapter.
53.
Bala Shimpi’s malaria was cured by giving curds to a black
dog, and Bapusaheb’s (Butti) cholera was eradicated by
feeding him walnuts and pistachios;
54.
the Swami from Alandi, who had pain in the ear, was cured
only with blessings, and the diarrhoea that Kaka (Mahajani)
suffered from was removed by peanuts;
55.
The devotee Dattapant from Harda, who suffered from a
servere stomach ache, was freed from his trouble by
blessings, in front of everybody;
56.
and one, Bhimaji Patil, had severe cough and tuberculosis.
He was cured by an application of ‘udi’ – all this is
narrated in the thirteenth.
57.
Seth Ruttonji, a Parsi from Nanded, a famous businessman who
was dejected was granted a son, placing him in the seventh
heaven;
58.
how the saint Mauli Saheb of Nanded, who worked as a coolie
and remained incognito, became known thanks to an indication
from Sai is the amazing story in the fourteenth.
59.
The ‘kirtan’ practice of Narada was told by Baba to Das
Ganu; and Cholkar was requited for his vow by giving him tea
full of sugar;
60.
a lizard from Aurangabad came and met one in the mosque, and
the story of their chirrupings is narrated in the fifteenth.
61.
A gentleman, well-endowed with wealth and children, came to
Shirdi having learnt of Sai’s fame, to acquire knowledge of
Brahman;
62.
one who desires the Brahman should be detached from the
worldly life and the greed for wealth should be discarded,
as a first step,
63.
but if he could not give a loan of five rupees to Baba for a
short while, even though he had a big roll of money in his
clothes, how could he attain the Brahman!
64.
The method by which Sai taught the lesson was beautiful and
Hemad’s words are like ‘prasad’, a mixture of milk and
sugar. This enticing story is in the sixteenth.
65.
The continuation of the earlier story, a detailed discussion
of the knowledge of Brahman, total destruction of the greed
for money, is the interesting narration in the seventeenth.
66.
Sathe’s story about the Guru Charitra, the story about
Radhabai’s ‘upadesha’, and the favour bestowed on Hemad are
skillfully narrated in the eighteenth.
67.
The detailed narration about this favour, and the in-depth
thoughts (of Hemad) according to the lesson taught by Sree
Sai are given in the nineteenth.
68.
Das Ganu commenced the “Ishavasya Bhavartha Bodhini”. In
that respect he had some doubts which he asked Baba.
69.
Baba said that the maid-servant of Kaka (Dixit) would
resolve it. The Sadguru’s greatness is extra-ordinary. An
interesting narration of it is in the twentieth.
70.
A virtuous district officer, another learned man Patankar
and the third, a brilliant lawyer – all three were granted
favours, as mentioned in the twenty-first.
71.
Mashidmai helps to cross the ocean of existence. It is none
other than Dwarkamai. Baba said this to all the people but
no one understood its deepest meaning.
72.
The virtues of Mashidmai were praised; Mirikar and Butti
were saved from snake bites; Amir Shakkar’s rheumatism was
cured and he was saved from the danger of the snake.
73.
Hemad was saved from the danger of a bite from the scorpion
and others from a snake and untimely death – all these
incidents are published in the twenty-second.
74.
How the doubts of a student of Yoga were removed, how
Madhavrao was cured of a snake bite; dhuni; and fire-wood,
and the killing of a goat are very interestingly described.
75.
The respect and glamour of Bade Baba, the lack of obedience
to the Guru’s orders, his greed for more irrespective of
what was given to him, and his dissatisfied nature;
76.
Kaka Saheb, the best among the devotees, who had supreme and
unswerving faith in the Guru’s orders, and how the Sadguru
sported with him is beautifully narrated in the twenty-
third.
77.
Making grains of grams the excuse, Hemadpant was given a
lesson that without remembering the Sadguru nothing should
be enjoyed (eaten);
78.
Sai caused a quarrel between Anna Babare and Maushibai, and
that uncommon incident of wit and humour has been sung by
the inestimable poet in the twenty-fourth.
79.
A devotee, Damu Anna Kasar, a resident of Ahmednagar, was
desirous of doing a big business of cotton and rice.
80.
There would definitely be a loss in the business. By eating
the mangoes, sons will be born said Sai, the Sun of
Knowledge. All this is described in the twenty-fifth.
81.
A devotee named Pant, who was a disciple of another saint,
was immediately given an indication, which made Pant
overjoyous;
82.
the son of devotee Harishchandra Pitale, who was suffering
from epilepsy was completely cured by only a merciful
glance;
83.
Pitale was given three rupees and was told that he had been
given two rupees earlier. Baba told him to worship them. It
is a charming narration in the twenty-sixth.
84.
Kaka (Mahajani) placed the Bhagvat ‘pothi’ in the Lord’s
hands, with the hope of getting it back as ‘prasad’ but the
Lord gave it to Madhav (Shama);
85.
the ‘pothi’ of Vishnusahasranam was in the collection of a
Ramadasi. Baba took it from there without his knowledge and
gave that also to Madhavrao.
86.
The story how Sai, the cloud of mercy, granted a boon to
Shamrao (Madhavrao) by giving him the Vishnusahasranam
‘pothi’ is narrated in the twenty-seventh.
87.
Lakhmichand Munshi, Chidibai of Burhanpur and the most
virtuous Brahmin, Megha, came to Baba’s feet.
88.
By giving them all a dream vision, gave them experience
in the waking state. Incredible are the feats of the Sadguru
Mauli. All this is lovingly narrated in the twenty-eighth.
89.
A group of ‘bhajan’ singers from Madras gathered at Shirdi
to witness the spectacle of generosity and giving of charity
by Baba, the guileless Shankar;
90.
the way in which the examination of Raghunath Tendulkar’s
son and his pension problems were resolved are the pleasant
‘leelas’ of Baba; and
91.
how Dr. Captain Hate, who was a very loving devotee of Sai’s
feet, was given an early morning dream vision is the
graceful story in the twenty-ninth.
92.
A person named Kakaji Vaidya, a devotee of Saptashrungi
Devi, was given a dream vision by the Devi, to have the
darshan of Sai, the foremost amongst the saints;
93.
Shamrao had taken a vow to the same Devi, so to fulfil that
vow Shama went to Vani after thirty years; and
94.
how Sai spoke “come to Shirdi” in the dreams of both, Seth
Kushalchand of Rahata and the Punjabi Brahmin, Ramlal, is
narrated in the thirtieth.
95.
Vijayanand, a Madrasi sanyasi, set out for Manas Sarovar.
Baba, Sree Hrishikesh personified, held him back at his own
feet;
96.
and the upliftment of the distinguished devotee Mankar, who
hovered over Sai’s feet like a bee over honey, and the
afflicted, cruel tiger is beautifully narrated in the
thirty-first.
97.
The story about four virtuous people wandering in the woods,
in search of God, and the darshan given by Gururaya to one
(Baba) as he had shed his ego;
98.
the unusual episode of the fasting lady Gokhalebai and
another similar story told by Sai himself, are sung by Hemad
in the thirty-second.
99.
A friend of Narayan Jani was suddenly stung by a scorpion,
while the daughter of another devotee was suffering from
high fever;
100. how the difficult labour of Chandorkar’s daughter frightened
her and how unhappy and worried everyone was;
101. the staunch devotee Kulkarni Saheb, the ‘bhajan’ singer Bala
Bua really understood the efficacious power of the ‘udi’;
102. and the enchanting story of the ‘dakshina’ of Haribhau
Karnik, a devotee full of faith and religious feelings,
which teaches a lesson, are all in the thirty-third.
103. The great distress of the Malegaon doctor on account of the
bone abscess of his nephew, the difficult illness of the
staunch devotee Dr. Pillai from guinea-worms;
104. the torment of Bapaji of Shirdi (Shama’s brother) on account
of the bubonic plague of his wife, and the epilepsy of the
young girl of Irani, which greatly troubled her;
105. the gentleman from Harda who was in great pain due to stones
in his bladder and the difficult labour of a lady from
Bombay, of the Kayasth Prabhu caste;
106. the complete removal of the above-mentioned maladies or
troubles by the mere application of the ‘udi’ without loss
of time, are interestingly described in the thirty-fourth.
107. A friend of Mahajani, who totally believed in the Formless,
became a devotee of the Form, after only one darshan;
108. the greatest of Gurus turned grapes with seeds into seedless
ones immediately and gave them to Dharamsi Jethabhai
Thakkar, a solicitor from Bombay;
109. a Kayasth gentleman from Bandra who could not sleep at ease
and Bala Patil of Nevasa both had experiences of the ‘udi’
which are given in the thirty-fifth.
110. Two gentlemen from Goa had separately taken different vows –
one for getting a job and another for finding a thief;
111. both had forgotten their vows but Sai Samartha made them
remember. Who can describe the fame of him, who had the
knowledge of the past, present and future and was
omnipresent!
112. The wife of Sakharam of Aurangabad rushed to Sai’s feet for
the boon of a son. How her wish was fulfilled by giving a
coconut is the story told, with a purpose, in the thirty-
sixth.
113. Hemad describes the ‘chavadi’ celebrations and festivities,
after seeing them himself, in an interesting narration in
the thirty-seventh.
114. After putting different ingredients a variety of items were
cooked in the ‘handi’ (cooking-pot) and distributed as
‘prasad’ lunch to all – a pleasing narration of it is in the
thirty-eighth.
115. The elucidation of the verse from the Gita, ‘Tadviddhi
Pranipatena’ is told to Chandorkar to remove his false pride
about his knowledge of Sanskrit; and
116. the king among saints gave a dream vision to Bapusaheb Butti
instructing him to build a temple – that is the narration in
the thirty-ninth.
117. Deo gave a feeding to the Brahmins in honour of his mother’s
completion of vows, for which he invited Baba by writing a
letter.
118. On that day, three eminent persons wearing the garb of
sanyasis came and had their meals with the Brahmins! It is
difficult to understand the sport of Gururaya!
119. After giving a dream vision to Hemad, Baba came for lunch in
the form of a portrait – that is the lucid narration in the
fortieth.
120. The poet narrates the story of the portrait at length to the
devotees. The Sadguru’s greatness is inconceivable. The
narration is enchanting and witty.
121. Assuming the Rudra avatar and becoming red as a blazing
coal, Sree Sai showered a volley of abuses on Deo angrily.
122. The Lord Sai said: “Read the Sree Dñyaneshwari regularly”
and even gave instructions in a dream about the method of
reading. Hemad narrates this in the forty-first.
123. The application of the Tripundra by the devotee Date;1 the
early warning about Sai’s leaving the body; averting the
deaths of Ramchandra (Patil) and Tatya (Patil Kote); and
124. the story of Sai Sadguru’s leaving the body which caused
deep sorrow among the listeners and disturbed Hemad also —
these are the holy stories in the forty-second.
125. The story about Baba’s leaving the body which was certainly
incomplete in the previous chapter is completed by Hemadpant
in the forty-third, and forty-fourth.
126. Once when Kaka Saheb Dixit was reading the Eknath Bhagvat,
with Kaka (Mahajani) and Madhav, had some doubts;
127. Madhav Rao clarified the doubt but Dixit was not convinced
or satisfied. Anand Rao Pakhade narrated a dream and that
removed the doubts;
128. Sai Samartha gave an explanation why Mhalsapati could not
possibly sleep on a plank hung from the rafters —all stories
skillfully told in the forty-fifth.
129. Baba’s deeds are wonderful! He remained fixed in one place
but roamed everywhere, showing people his miraculous
appearances. Strange were his travels to Kashi and Gaya.
130. The gem among saints told Shama to go and attend the wedding
celebrations of the son of Chandorkar, and Shama saw Baba at
Gaya in a portrait at that time.
131. The earlier life story of two goats was narrated himself by
Sai, the three-eyed one – pleasing, sweet, holy and deep is
the story narration in the forty-sixth.
132. Similarly a story about a snake and a frog, or a greedy
money lender and a borrower and their previous lives is told
by Sai, who is truly Brahma, Vishnu and Shankar.
133. Enmity, murder and debt have to be repaid and for that there
is re-birth – that is the nectar-like story that Baba
imparts in a heart-warming narration in the forty-seventh.
134. One staunch devotee Shevade and the manner in which he faced
his advocate’s exam and the other a disbelieving Sapatnekar
who was granted grace is in the forty-eighth.
135. Hari Kanoba, a resident of Bombay, and Somadev Swami, who
had a malicious mind, came to Shirdi to test the saint, with
pride in their hearts!
136. As soon as the ‘darshan’ was taken, they were told what
their intentions were and both were right away ashamed. They
were attracted to Sai’s feet and their sins of many lives
were obliterated.
137. While sitting near Baba, Chandorkar’s mind was disturbed and
his emotions were aroused by seeing a beautiful woman. This
story is narrated in the forty-ninth.
138. Raghunath’s son (i.e. Govindrao Dabholkar) gives in detail
the meaning of “Tadviddhi Pranipatena” giving arguments in
support and justification, in the fiftieth.
139. How Dixit Hari Sitaram, the devotee Balaram Dhurandhar and
an advocate named Pundalik of Nanded, arrived initially at
Shirdi
140. each one’s story is marvellous! Hearing them the listeners
were amazed and their devotional feelings were aroused. All
this is narrated in the fifty-first.
141.After reviewing the book, Hemad asked for a boon —that the
wickedness of the evil-minded be destroyed and that the
virtuous are protected.
142. Surrendering at the Sadguru’s feet and offering him his head
and his pen, the book is completed and his objective is
achieved in the fifty-second.
143. Govindrao completed the series of chapters of Sree Sai
Satcharita in this manner. I lovingly bow to his feet and
also to the Guru, who is the Mother of the whole universe.
144. Giving the summary of each chapter is itself called the
‘Avataranika’. It is the right or virtuous path for those
desirous of attaining liberation.
145. It may be scornfully neglected considering it to be a ragged
border for a beautiful mantle, or robe. But this humble one
appeals to the clever listeners to hear it once.
146. Just as a black mark is put on the forehead of a plump,
lovely child to ward off the evil eye, Bal (Deo) has applied
this black mark in the form of this ‘Avataranika’ to this
robe.
147. The beautiful book is like a well-flavoured meal and the
chapters are like the different items. Buttermilk is
necessary for digesting such a meal, if heartily partaken.
This ‘Avataranika’ is written for that purpose.
148. The book is the ever-fruitful, wish-fulfilling cow and each
of the chapters are holy and pure. The ‘‘Avataranika’ is the
necklace of black beads put round the neck to avert the evil
or malignant eye.
149. So be it. I will explain to the best of my ability the
method that Pant Hemad uses for the compilation of the
chapters. Listeners should hear it with respect.
150. At the outset, there is praise for the Sadguru and then
there is narration of the Vedant, description of Sai as
Brahman Incarnate, followed by narration of experiences.
151. To begin with, Hemad was well-versed in shastra and
literature; and with the propitiation of Sadguru Sai he was
overnight turned into a genius, so that he could create this
book like a well-flavoured meal.
152. He, who experiences its sweetness and goodness, will find
that the cycle of birth and death has ended; and the legacy
of the liberation will certainly be received.
153. How can the grandeur of the book be described when it has
Hemad’s lucid language and the sacrament of Sai. Truly, it
is the mixture of milk and sugar cane juice.
154. There may be many authors but they do not have the authority
of sacramental language for which a real Sadguru is needed,
who is the Support of the universe, and the Consort of Rama.
155. Even if the shastras are studied such a book cannot be
written, without the Guru’s Grace. This is absolutely true.
156. Who can describe Sree Sai Satcharita! How incomparably
worthy is the book! For which an author like Hemadpant was
found! It is the supreme good fortune for seekers of
liberation.
157. As long as the book exists on this earth, its fame will
spread amongst the people. Govindrao has given a timely
abundance of wealth for the seekers of liberation.
158. Twice blessed is this surpassing book! which is the
outcome of Sai Sadguru’s favour. It will be honoured by
seekers of liberation and it will overcome their poverty of
thought.
159. Because of the store of good deeds done in innumerable past
lives, Govindrao got this opportunity to do this service for
Sai, which bore sweet fruit in the authorship of this book.
160. Hemad Pant was a staunch devotee, poet and fond of the
knowledge to be gained from the Vedant. He was devotedly
attached to Sai’s feet, day and night.
161. The subject of Vedant is very deep. Without the combination
of detachment, devotion and knowledge and the grace of the
Guru, it is impossible to write such a book.
162. These are not chapters but sockets of gold in which the
priceless gems of the stories have been studded and from
which sparks of knowledge and meaning have been drawn by
Govindrao with an immense effort.
163. The different chapters are the fragrant garlands of flowers
offered to the neck of Sree Sai Sadguru by Govind, the
loving child, to the best of his ability and with pure
devotion.
164. The various chapters are pure pots of gold which are filled
with Sree Sai Satcharita, like the waters of the Ganges, by
the son of Raghunath, to drive away the pride of the seekers
of liberation.
165. In the canopy of the battlefield of various books, the son
of Raghunath has raised victory pillars of the chapters for
destroying the demons of evil feelings, deceit and false
pride, with the sword of his intellect.
166. The book is a five-wick lamp, studded with gems to wave
round the king among Saints! The chapters narrate the
stories which are wicks of oil, the light of which brings
detachment and peace.
167. The book is Maya which entices the world. The chapters are
arms raised high and the meaning of the stories are
bracelets (worn on the upper arm) decorating the body ready
to embrace Sai, Brahman Incarnate.
168. The Sai Satcharita is the universal sovereign amongst books.
The chapters are pleasing, clever minstrels, narrating
faith, knowledge, the Vedantic beauty and its vast glory.
169. The Sai Satcharita is the market place for spirituality and
each chapter therein is an emporium. The stories of the
experiences are the objects fully stocked there, arranged
neatly by the greatest among the poets.
170. The book is formidable as the span of the Ganges. The
chapters are the compact ‘ghats’ of just proportions. The
flow of stories is sweet as nectar and vast, by the Guru’s
Grace and formidable greatness.
171. It is not just a book but a wish-fulfilling tree, which the
people engrossed in mundane existence find barren but for
the seekers of liberation it gives only the actual
experience of liberation.
172. This alone can be called a real memorial which destroys the
darkness and tribulations of the mundane existence and saves
from the hell of greed and illusion. It is certainly a giver
of peace.
173. The author, Govindrao by being a bee at the lotus feet of
Sai Sadguru, always savours the newly drawn sweet honey.
174. His surname was Dhabholkar and he was engaged in serving the
British government. He was learned, full of humility, well-
behaved and well-qualified.
175. Rakhumabai was his wife, virtuous, devoted and full of good
qualities, dedicated to her husband and always submissive.
She had confirmed faith in Sai.
176. Dapoli, near Vengurla, was the original place of domicile of
the poet. Later on Kelva was the village, for the family
forefathers.
177. In ‘Shake’ 1781 (1859 A.D.) on the 5th day of the dark
fortnight of Margashir month, the blessed and meritorious
Govind was born to Lakshmi, the wife of Raghunath.
178. He belonged to the Goud Saraswat Brahmins caste and
to the Bharadwaj gotra. He died at the age of seventy in
Shake 1851, on the ninth day of the dark fortnight of Ashad
month.
179. In ‘Shake’ 1844 (1922 A.D.), in the month of Chaitra, he
commenced writing this book and completed upto the fifty-
second chapter by Shake 1851 (1929 A.D.), in the month of
Jeshtha.
180. Govindrao had only one son and five daughters of which four
were married. The son was also married and was studying
medicine; and the unmarried daughter was also doing the
same.
181. Now I shall mention the procedure of recitation (of the
book), as well as the easy method of doing a reading within
seven days, as laid down in the Gurucharitra or other such
books. Listeners are requested to pay attention.
182. Do the recitation with a pure heart and devotion, completing
it in one day or two days or three days. Sai Narayan will be
gratified.
183. Otherwise, complete it easily in a week and you will have
immense good fortune on a continuing basis. Sai will fulfil
the heart’s desire and the fear of the worldly existence
will be destroyed.
184. Begin the recitation on a Thursday, in the early morning
after a bath. Sit on your ‘asan’ (seat for prayer), after
quickly completing your usual routine.
185. Make a pleasing, large canopy with banana plants, ‘kardali’2,
and beautiful cloth covering over it and let it be well-
decorated.
186. In it, let there be a raised platform (for the book) and
decorate all the four sides of it with colourful ‘rangoli’3,
which are pleasing for the eyes.
187. Making an image of Sai Sadguru or taking a beautiful picture
of him, place it carefully on the high platform. Make
obeisance to him with love.
188. Tying the book in a silken cloth, place it near the Sadguru.
After worshipping both with ‘panch upachar’, 4 commence the
reading.
189. Observe the holy vows5 for eight days, having only milk or
fruits or roasted grain of any one kind, eating only once or
having only one meal.
190. Facing the east and keeping the image of the Sadguru in the
heart, do the recitation of the book with a calm mind and
with joy.
191. During the seven days, read the first eight chapters on the
first day, then the next eight on the second day, followed
by next seven on the third day. Then eight, six, eight and
seven chapters on the following four days, and only
‘Avataranika’ on the eighth day.
192. On the eighth day, at the end of the observance of vows and
of the offering of ‘naivedya’ to Sai Narayana, feed friends,
relatives and Brahmins with delicacies and give ‘dakshina’
to them to the best of one’s ability.
193. Inviting the Vedic Brahmins, have them chant the Vedas at
night, offer them sugar flavoured milk and give them a
respectful send-off, after they are well satisfied in body
and mind.
194. Finally, after doing obeisance at the Sadguru’s Feet, offer
him appropriate ‘dakshina’ and send that to the Treasury (of
the Shirdi Sansthan) to augment the funds of the Sansthan.
195. Lord Sai will be gratified thereby, and he will bless the
devotee. The snake in the form of the worldly existence will
be destroyed and the treasure of liberation will be revealed
to him.
196. Listeners, may you feel at home with the Saint. You may
forget the ‘Avataranika’, but keep an eye on the meaning of
the book. This is the earnest request of this humble one, at
your feet.
197. Virtuous listeners, be very merciful to this humble one till
the end of time. I place my head at your feet. Baba’s Bal
prays thus to you.
198. Whatever is very deficient, attribute it to me. Take the
essence, you listeners, and act in such a way that the mind
is resplendent.
199. Obeisance to Sai, the son of Shiva (i.e. Ganesha); obeisance
to Sai, seated on the Lotus (i.e. Brahmadev): obeisance to
Sai, the killer of the demon Madhu (i.e. Vishnu). Obeisance
to Sai, the five-faced Lord (i.e. Shiva).
200. Obeisance to Sai, the son of Atri (i.e. Datta); obeisance to
Sai the killer of the demon Paka (i.e. Indra); obeisance to
Sai, the lover of the night (i.e. the Moon); obeisance to
Sai, the Lord of Fire.
201. Obeisance to Sai the Consort of Rukmani, Obeisance to Sai
the Sun of the Mind; obeisance to Sai the Ocean of
Knowledge; obeisance to Sree Sai, Dñyaneshwara.
202. The ‘Avataranika’ is the verbal ‘pushpanjali’ (offering of
flowers). Similar is the obeisance of glorious names which I
have prayed offering them at the feet of the Guru. Mother
Sai be gratified.
This is the end of the fifty-third chapter of Sree Sai Samartha
Satcharita, written by Baba’s slave, Bal, impelled by Saints and
virtuous people, called “Avataranika” (Epitome).
This is offered to Sree Sadguru Sainath.
May there be auspiciousness!
Notes :
1.
The story is given in Chapter 11 in respect of Dr. Pandit, so it
is no longer being printed in Chapter 42 of the Satcharit.
2.
Banana like plant with flowers.
3.
Designs made on the ground (floor) with coloured, powdered chalk.
4.
Sandalwood paste, flowers, incense, light and ‘naivedya’.
5.
Bathing and wearing clean clothes, fasting, remaining pure and
moral, celibate, and sleeping on the floor.
Baba was fond of playing with children
“Avataranika” (Epitome)
I bow down to Sree Ganesh
I bow down to Sree Saraswati
I bow down to the Guru
I bow down to the Family Deity
I bow down to Sree Sita-Ramachandra
I bow down to Sree Sadguru Sainath.
1.
Sree Sai is truly Brahman incarnate; the greatest among the
saints, the Lord Paramount, whose fame has reached every
corner of the earth and is the grantor of intelligence and
inspiration.
2.
I surrender to him with whole-hearted devotion. I do
obeisance at his holy feet. He removes the fear of this
mundane existence, and breaks the cycle of birth and death.
3.
In the previous chapter it had been promised to give a
review and then a table of contents or index, before
concluding the book.
4.
Though Pant Hemad said so, it did not happen that way. The
table of contents was not drawn up or was overlooked.
5.
He who starts the book should himself complete it, by
giving the table of contents in the end. This is the usual
procedure.
6.
But there are exceptions to a rule; and this can be seen
here itself. Nothing happens as one wishes. Only Baba’s
wishes are over-riding.
7.
Hemad died unexpectedly. Everyone was sorrowful. The table
of contents was not to be traced; and everyone was confused.
8.
Annasaheb’s records were difficult to find. His son, Shri
Gajanan, made efforts to look and gave me whatever was
needed.
9.
Annasaheb was thrifty and did not waste even a scrap of
paper. He worked with grace and tidiness, as was his nature.
10.
He wrote a chapter on bits of paper and gave them, as is, to
the printer. Unnecessary expense hurt him. He could not be
compared to anyone else.
11.
He felt pity for those lifeless, helpless scraps of paper.
How would they be uplifted unless they served the lion
amongst the saints i.e. Sree Sai Baba?
12.
Hemad must have felt this way and, therefore, collected
these scraps of paper, so that they could also serve. That
must have been the exalted intention.
13.
The last chapter must have been done in the same way, and
must have been written on scraps of paper. A lot of thought
was given to the problem, yet the index could not be found
amongst the bits of paper.
14.
The matter was told to Gajananrao and others. It was also
told to Babasaheb Tarkhad, the Treasurer of the Shirdi
Sansthan. All of them were of the opinion that the index
should be there.
15.
Babasaheb fixed a time limit and published this also in the
Sree Sai Leela. The time lapsed, yet the index did not come
forth.
16.
Hemad, Govind, was a mine of virtues. He knew the Vedant by
heart which was at his command. His book exhibited the
Guru’s grace, like ‘prasad’. Incredible was the Guru’s
grace.
17.
Innumerable were the devotees of Sadguru Sai from amongst
whom Hemadpant was a gem of a poet. Only someone, who was as
knowledgeable as he was, would be capable of writing it.
18.
The index did not come forth from anywhere. I felt very
dejected. I prayed to Duttaguru, Sree Saibaba, and pleaded
for his mercy.
19.
I am dull-witted and insignificant, without studious
contemplation or even a trace of knowledge. Being totally
devoid of poetic tendency, how could I compose verses!
20.
But there was one support that I had. When Sree Duttaguru is
favourable, even the Meru mountain can be lifted as easily
as a mosquito. His powers are great.
21.
Again I prayed to Umaraman Shiva, so that Sai Narayana would
become merciful and give me the inspiration to write the
index immediately.
22.
I do not have the capacity to compose poetry. Sree Gururaya
is aware of my limitations. Placing my head at his feet, I
shall begin writing the index.
23.
This part of the book, viz. the index, will be composed by
Sai Vakratunda (Ganapati). His grandeur is unparalleled and
immense. My mouth is only his instrument.
24.
In the first chapter is the invocation to the remover of
difficulties and the cause of the Universe, to the ornament
round the neck of Uma and Shiva – obeisance to Sree Ganesha.
25.
Obeisance also to the wonderful Goddess of Speech, full of
wisdom, Sree Sharada, who entices the world and is the
grantor of whatever is desired.
26.
Obeisance to the Lord Sai, the Family Deity, the relations,
the Guru brethren, the saints and virtuous people who are
incarnations of God; and surrender to the Sadguru, who is
the abode of salvation.
27.
By narrating the story of the grinding of the wheat and how
the cholera epidemic was removed was explained and the
powers and greatness of Sai were described.
28.
In the second chapter, the purpose for writing the book
is given, also the naming of Hemadpant, the end of the
debate of the necessity of a Guru and the first darshan of
Hemad.
29.
In the third chapter it has been fully explained how the
permission was given for writing the book by Sai’s own words
and the story about the Rohilla.
30.
Next, the reason for the appearance of saints and sages, who
are ornaments of the Ruler of the World, on the earth, has
been explained in detail.
31.
And the first arrival of Sai, Avatar of Dutta, Son of Atri,
the wish-fulfilling tree, in Shirdi village – all that is
described in the fourth.
32.
The disappearance from Shirdi village and the re-appearance
in the company of the well-to-do Patil which surprised all;
33.
the gathering of Gangagir and other saints, the carrying of
water in pots on his own head from afar to create a garden
is all fully mentioned in the fifth.
34.
In the sixth chapter, the big festival of Ramnavami where
Bala Buva was the Kirtankar and the renovation of the Masjid
is narrated in detail.
35.
Next is about yogic practices of Samadhi, Khandayog, Dhoti-
Poti etc., whether Baba was a Hindu or a Muslim; the
unfathomable inner self of a Saint;
36.
Baba’s dress, behaviour, giving of medicines, smoking of
‘chillum’, caste, ‘dhuni’, lamps, his illness, and service
to him -incomprehensible was the sight of all this!
37.
The seventh by the learned poet excellently narrates matters
about Bhagoji Shinde’s leprosy, the medicine for the plague
affecting Khaparde’s son and Nana’s Pandharpur ‘darshan’
idea.
38.
The unique greatness of human birth, the description of the
mode in which Sai asked for alms, the service of Bayjabai to
the saints and the offering of food to Baba with her own
hands;
39.
how Baba, Tatya and Mhalsapati, all three of them, slept in
the Masjid at night and Baba’s excessive love for both of
them, which was identical;
40.
and the mutual love of Baba who was the repository of peace
and knowledge, and Kushalchand of Rahta village is all
delightfully narrated in the eighth chapter.
41.
How greatly Tatyasaheb Noolkar, and Tatya Patil, who were
great devotees, as well as the English gentleman repented
for not following instructions;
42.
how Baba made an offering to the five elements before
savouring the food which had been given as alms, how Baba
was qualified to seek alms is cleverly explained;
43.
and the excellent story of how the famous Babasaheb Tarkhad,
the staunch Prathna Samajist, became a devotee of Sai,
whole-heartedly, are all given in the ninth chapter.
44.
Yogeshwar Baba’s bed, of a plank four-hands long and a span
in width, hung from the rafters;
45.
a touching account of when Baba first arrived in Shirdi, how
many years he lived there and when he left the mortal coil;
46.
though calm and desireless within, outwardly demonstrating a
demonic nature and Gururaya’s unfailing inclination to lead
the people together on a particular path;
47.
the Sadguru’s tremendous skill in teaching the Ved-shastras
and the essence of religion, spirituality and the code of
behaviour, and testing the intellects of the devotees as
well as the non-devotees;
48.
Baba’s usual seat, Baba’s knowledge, Baba’s meditation and
Baba’s dwelling – his power and his greatness – are fully
described in the tenth chapter.
49.
Baba’s fame everywhere as being the embodiment of
Satchitanand, Doctor Pandit’s loving devotion, and the
narration of the behaviour of Siddique (Falke);
50.
his control over the clouds, his incredible power over fire
and his protection from strong winds are interestingly
described in the eleventh;
51.
Kaka (Mahajani), Dhumal, Nimonkar, a Mamlatdar and a Doctor
— different incidents about each of them were narrated
sweetly.
52.
And the unique Sai ‘darshan’ of the Agnihotri from Nashik,
the doubting Muley, a disciple of Saint Gholapram, in the
twelfth chapter.
53.
Bala Shimpi’s malaria was cured by giving curds to a black
dog, and Bapusaheb’s (Butti) cholera was eradicated by
feeding him walnuts and pistachios;
54.
the Swami from Alandi, who had pain in the ear, was cured
only with blessings, and the diarrhoea that Kaka (Mahajani)
suffered from was removed by peanuts;
55.
The devotee Dattapant from Harda, who suffered from a
servere stomach ache, was freed from his trouble by
blessings, in front of everybody;
56.
and one, Bhimaji Patil, had severe cough and tuberculosis.
He was cured by an application of ‘udi’ – all this is
narrated in the thirteenth.
57.
Seth Ruttonji, a Parsi from Nanded, a famous businessman who
was dejected was granted a son, placing him in the seventh
heaven;
58.
how the saint Mauli Saheb of Nanded, who worked as a coolie
and remained incognito, became known thanks to an indication
from Sai is the amazing story in the fourteenth.
59.
The ‘kirtan’ practice of Narada was told by Baba to Das
Ganu; and Cholkar was requited for his vow by giving him tea
full of sugar;
60.
a lizard from Aurangabad came and met one in the mosque, and
the story of their chirrupings is narrated in the fifteenth.
61.
A gentleman, well-endowed with wealth and children, came to
Shirdi having learnt of Sai’s fame, to acquire knowledge of
Brahman;
62.
one who desires the Brahman should be detached from the
worldly life and the greed for wealth should be discarded,
as a first step,
63.
but if he could not give a loan of five rupees to Baba for a
short while, even though he had a big roll of money in his
clothes, how could he attain the Brahman!
64.
The method by which Sai taught the lesson was beautiful and
Hemad’s words are like ‘prasad’, a mixture of milk and
sugar. This enticing story is in the sixteenth.
65.
The continuation of the earlier story, a detailed discussion
of the knowledge of Brahman, total destruction of the greed
for money, is the interesting narration in the seventeenth.
66.
Sathe’s story about the Guru Charitra, the story about
Radhabai’s ‘upadesha’, and the favour bestowed on Hemad are
skillfully narrated in the eighteenth.
67.
The detailed narration about this favour, and the in-depth
thoughts (of Hemad) according to the lesson taught by Sree
Sai are given in the nineteenth.
68.
Das Ganu commenced the “Ishavasya Bhavartha Bodhini”. In
that respect he had some doubts which he asked Baba.
69.
Baba said that the maid-servant of Kaka (Dixit) would
resolve it. The Sadguru’s greatness is extra-ordinary. An
interesting narration of it is in the twentieth.
70.
A virtuous district officer, another learned man Patankar
and the third, a brilliant lawyer – all three were granted
favours, as mentioned in the twenty-first.
71.
Mashidmai helps to cross the ocean of existence. It is none
other than Dwarkamai. Baba said this to all the people but
no one understood its deepest meaning.
72.
The virtues of Mashidmai were praised; Mirikar and Butti
were saved from snake bites; Amir Shakkar’s rheumatism was
cured and he was saved from the danger of the snake.
73.
Hemad was saved from the danger of a bite from the scorpion
and others from a snake and untimely death – all these
incidents are published in the twenty-second.
74.
How the doubts of a student of Yoga were removed, how
Madhavrao was cured of a snake bite; dhuni; and fire-wood,
and the killing of a goat are very interestingly described.
75.
The respect and glamour of Bade Baba, the lack of obedience
to the Guru’s orders, his greed for more irrespective of
what was given to him, and his dissatisfied nature;
76.
Kaka Saheb, the best among the devotees, who had supreme and
unswerving faith in the Guru’s orders, and how the Sadguru
sported with him is beautifully narrated in the twenty-
third.
77.
Making grains of grams the excuse, Hemadpant was given a
lesson that without remembering the Sadguru nothing should
be enjoyed (eaten);
78.
Sai caused a quarrel between Anna Babare and Maushibai, and
that uncommon incident of wit and humour has been sung by
the inestimable poet in the twenty-fourth.
79.
A devotee, Damu Anna Kasar, a resident of Ahmednagar, was
desirous of doing a big business of cotton and rice.
80.
There would definitely be a loss in the business. By eating
the mangoes, sons will be born said Sai, the Sun of
Knowledge. All this is described in the twenty-fifth.
81.
A devotee named Pant, who was a disciple of another saint,
was immediately given an indication, which made Pant
overjoyous;
82.
the son of devotee Harishchandra Pitale, who was suffering
from epilepsy was completely cured by only a merciful
glance;
83.
Pitale was given three rupees and was told that he had been
given two rupees earlier. Baba told him to worship them. It
is a charming narration in the twenty-sixth.
84.
Kaka (Mahajani) placed the Bhagvat ‘pothi’ in the Lord’s
hands, with the hope of getting it back as ‘prasad’ but the
Lord gave it to Madhav (Shama);
85.
the ‘pothi’ of Vishnusahasranam was in the collection of a
Ramadasi. Baba took it from there without his knowledge and
gave that also to Madhavrao.
86.
The story how Sai, the cloud of mercy, granted a boon to
Shamrao (Madhavrao) by giving him the Vishnusahasranam
‘pothi’ is narrated in the twenty-seventh.
87.
Lakhmichand Munshi, Chidibai of Burhanpur and the most
virtuous Brahmin, Megha, came to Baba’s feet.
88.
By giving them all a dream vision, gave them experience
in the waking state. Incredible are the feats of the Sadguru
Mauli. All this is lovingly narrated in the twenty-eighth.
89.
A group of ‘bhajan’ singers from Madras gathered at Shirdi
to witness the spectacle of generosity and giving of charity
by Baba, the guileless Shankar;
90.
the way in which the examination of Raghunath Tendulkar’s
son and his pension problems were resolved are the pleasant
‘leelas’ of Baba; and
91.
how Dr. Captain Hate, who was a very loving devotee of Sai’s
feet, was given an early morning dream vision is the
graceful story in the twenty-ninth.
92.
A person named Kakaji Vaidya, a devotee of Saptashrungi
Devi, was given a dream vision by the Devi, to have the
darshan of Sai, the foremost amongst the saints;
93.
Shamrao had taken a vow to the same Devi, so to fulfil that
vow Shama went to Vani after thirty years; and
94.
how Sai spoke “come to Shirdi” in the dreams of both, Seth
Kushalchand of Rahata and the Punjabi Brahmin, Ramlal, is
narrated in the thirtieth.
95.
Vijayanand, a Madrasi sanyasi, set out for Manas Sarovar.
Baba, Sree Hrishikesh personified, held him back at his own
feet;
96.
and the upliftment of the distinguished devotee Mankar, who
hovered over Sai’s feet like a bee over honey, and the
afflicted, cruel tiger is beautifully narrated in the
thirty-first.
97.
The story about four virtuous people wandering in the woods,
in search of God, and the darshan given by Gururaya to one
(Baba) as he had shed his ego;
98.
the unusual episode of the fasting lady Gokhalebai and
another similar story told by Sai himself, are sung by Hemad
in the thirty-second.
99.
A friend of Narayan Jani was suddenly stung by a scorpion,
while the daughter of another devotee was suffering from
high fever;
100. how the difficult labour of Chandorkar’s daughter frightened
her and how unhappy and worried everyone was;
101. the staunch devotee Kulkarni Saheb, the ‘bhajan’ singer Bala
Bua really understood the efficacious power of the ‘udi’;
102. and the enchanting story of the ‘dakshina’ of Haribhau
Karnik, a devotee full of faith and religious feelings,
which teaches a lesson, are all in the thirty-third.
103. The great distress of the Malegaon doctor on account of the
bone abscess of his nephew, the difficult illness of the
staunch devotee Dr. Pillai from guinea-worms;
104. the torment of Bapaji of Shirdi (Shama’s brother) on account
of the bubonic plague of his wife, and the epilepsy of the
young girl of Irani, which greatly troubled her;
105. the gentleman from Harda who was in great pain due to stones
in his bladder and the difficult labour of a lady from
Bombay, of the Kayasth Prabhu caste;
106. the complete removal of the above-mentioned maladies or
troubles by the mere application of the ‘udi’ without loss
of time, are interestingly described in the thirty-fourth.
107. A friend of Mahajani, who totally believed in the Formless,
became a devotee of the Form, after only one darshan;
108. the greatest of Gurus turned grapes with seeds into seedless
ones immediately and gave them to Dharamsi Jethabhai
Thakkar, a solicitor from Bombay;
109. a Kayasth gentleman from Bandra who could not sleep at ease
and Bala Patil of Nevasa both had experiences of the ‘udi’
which are given in the thirty-fifth.
110. Two gentlemen from Goa had separately taken different vows –
one for getting a job and another for finding a thief;
111. both had forgotten their vows but Sai Samartha made them
remember. Who can describe the fame of him, who had the
knowledge of the past, present and future and was
omnipresent!
112. The wife of Sakharam of Aurangabad rushed to Sai’s feet for
the boon of a son. How her wish was fulfilled by giving a
coconut is the story told, with a purpose, in the thirty-
sixth.
113. Hemad describes the ‘chavadi’ celebrations and festivities,
after seeing them himself, in an interesting narration in
the thirty-seventh.
114. After putting different ingredients a variety of items were
cooked in the ‘handi’ (cooking-pot) and distributed as
‘prasad’ lunch to all – a pleasing narration of it is in the
thirty-eighth.
115. The elucidation of the verse from the Gita, ‘Tadviddhi
Pranipatena’ is told to Chandorkar to remove his false pride
about his knowledge of Sanskrit; and
116. the king among saints gave a dream vision to Bapusaheb Butti
instructing him to build a temple – that is the narration in
the thirty-ninth.
117. Deo gave a feeding to the Brahmins in honour of his mother’s
completion of vows, for which he invited Baba by writing a
letter.
118. On that day, three eminent persons wearing the garb of
sanyasis came and had their meals with the Brahmins! It is
difficult to understand the sport of Gururaya!
119. After giving a dream vision to Hemad, Baba came for lunch in
the form of a portrait – that is the lucid narration in the
fortieth.
120. The poet narrates the story of the portrait at length to the
devotees. The Sadguru’s greatness is inconceivable. The
narration is enchanting and witty.
121. Assuming the Rudra avatar and becoming red as a blazing
coal, Sree Sai showered a volley of abuses on Deo angrily.
122. The Lord Sai said: “Read the Sree Dñyaneshwari regularly”
and even gave instructions in a dream about the method of
reading. Hemad narrates this in the forty-first.
123. The application of the Tripundra by the devotee Date;1 the
early warning about Sai’s leaving the body; averting the
deaths of Ramchandra (Patil) and Tatya (Patil Kote); and
124. the story of Sai Sadguru’s leaving the body which caused
deep sorrow among the listeners and disturbed Hemad also —
these are the holy stories in the forty-second.
125. The story about Baba’s leaving the body which was certainly
incomplete in the previous chapter is completed by Hemadpant
in the forty-third, and forty-fourth.
126. Once when Kaka Saheb Dixit was reading the Eknath Bhagvat,
with Kaka (Mahajani) and Madhav, had some doubts;
127. Madhav Rao clarified the doubt but Dixit was not convinced
or satisfied. Anand Rao Pakhade narrated a dream and that
removed the doubts;
128. Sai Samartha gave an explanation why Mhalsapati could not
possibly sleep on a plank hung from the rafters —all stories
skillfully told in the forty-fifth.
129. Baba’s deeds are wonderful! He remained fixed in one place
but roamed everywhere, showing people his miraculous
appearances. Strange were his travels to Kashi and Gaya.
130. The gem among saints told Shama to go and attend the wedding
celebrations of the son of Chandorkar, and Shama saw Baba at
Gaya in a portrait at that time.
131. The earlier life story of two goats was narrated himself by
Sai, the three-eyed one – pleasing, sweet, holy and deep is
the story narration in the forty-sixth.
132. Similarly a story about a snake and a frog, or a greedy
money lender and a borrower and their previous lives is told
by Sai, who is truly Brahma, Vishnu and Shankar.
133. Enmity, murder and debt have to be repaid and for that there
is re-birth – that is the nectar-like story that Baba
imparts in a heart-warming narration in the forty-seventh.
134. One staunch devotee Shevade and the manner in which he faced
his advocate’s exam and the other a disbelieving Sapatnekar
who was granted grace is in the forty-eighth.
135. Hari Kanoba, a resident of Bombay, and Somadev Swami, who
had a malicious mind, came to Shirdi to test the saint, with
pride in their hearts!
136. As soon as the ‘darshan’ was taken, they were told what
their intentions were and both were right away ashamed. They
were attracted to Sai’s feet and their sins of many lives
were obliterated.
137. While sitting near Baba, Chandorkar’s mind was disturbed and
his emotions were aroused by seeing a beautiful woman. This
story is narrated in the forty-ninth.
138. Raghunath’s son (i.e. Govindrao Dabholkar) gives in detail
the meaning of “Tadviddhi Pranipatena” giving arguments in
support and justification, in the fiftieth.
139. How Dixit Hari Sitaram, the devotee Balaram Dhurandhar and
an advocate named Pundalik of Nanded, arrived initially at
Shirdi
140. each one’s story is marvellous! Hearing them the listeners
were amazed and their devotional feelings were aroused. All
this is narrated in the fifty-first.
141.After reviewing the book, Hemad asked for a boon —that the
wickedness of the evil-minded be destroyed and that the
virtuous are protected.
142. Surrendering at the Sadguru’s feet and offering him his head
and his pen, the book is completed and his objective is
achieved in the fifty-second.
143. Govindrao completed the series of chapters of Sree Sai
Satcharita in this manner. I lovingly bow to his feet and
also to the Guru, who is the Mother of the whole universe.
144. Giving the summary of each chapter is itself called the
‘Avataranika’. It is the right or virtuous path for those
desirous of attaining liberation.
145. It may be scornfully neglected considering it to be a ragged
border for a beautiful mantle, or robe. But this humble one
appeals to the clever listeners to hear it once.
146. Just as a black mark is put on the forehead of a plump,
lovely child to ward off the evil eye, Bal (Deo) has applied
this black mark in the form of this ‘Avataranika’ to this
robe.
147. The beautiful book is like a well-flavoured meal and the
chapters are like the different items. Buttermilk is
necessary for digesting such a meal, if heartily partaken.
This ‘Avataranika’ is written for that purpose.
148. The book is the ever-fruitful, wish-fulfilling cow and each
of the chapters are holy and pure. The ‘‘Avataranika’ is the
necklace of black beads put round the neck to avert the evil
or malignant eye.
149. So be it. I will explain to the best of my ability the
method that Pant Hemad uses for the compilation of the
chapters. Listeners should hear it with respect.
150. At the outset, there is praise for the Sadguru and then
there is narration of the Vedant, description of Sai as
Brahman Incarnate, followed by narration of experiences.
151. To begin with, Hemad was well-versed in shastra and
literature; and with the propitiation of Sadguru Sai he was
overnight turned into a genius, so that he could create this
book like a well-flavoured meal.
152. He, who experiences its sweetness and goodness, will find
that the cycle of birth and death has ended; and the legacy
of the liberation will certainly be received.
153. How can the grandeur of the book be described when it has
Hemad’s lucid language and the sacrament of Sai. Truly, it
is the mixture of milk and sugar cane juice.
154. There may be many authors but they do not have the authority
of sacramental language for which a real Sadguru is needed,
who is the Support of the universe, and the Consort of Rama.
155. Even if the shastras are studied such a book cannot be
written, without the Guru’s Grace. This is absolutely true.
156. Who can describe Sree Sai Satcharita! How incomparably
worthy is the book! For which an author like Hemadpant was
found! It is the supreme good fortune for seekers of
liberation.
157. As long as the book exists on this earth, its fame will
spread amongst the people. Govindrao has given a timely
abundance of wealth for the seekers of liberation.
158. Twice blessed is this surpassing book! which is the
outcome of Sai Sadguru’s favour. It will be honoured by
seekers of liberation and it will overcome their poverty of
thought.
159. Because of the store of good deeds done in innumerable past
lives, Govindrao got this opportunity to do this service for
Sai, which bore sweet fruit in the authorship of this book.
160. Hemad Pant was a staunch devotee, poet and fond of the
knowledge to be gained from the Vedant. He was devotedly
attached to Sai’s feet, day and night.
161. The subject of Vedant is very deep. Without the combination
of detachment, devotion and knowledge and the grace of the
Guru, it is impossible to write such a book.
162. These are not chapters but sockets of gold in which the
priceless gems of the stories have been studded and from
which sparks of knowledge and meaning have been drawn by
Govindrao with an immense effort.
163. The different chapters are the fragrant garlands of flowers
offered to the neck of Sree Sai Sadguru by Govind, the
loving child, to the best of his ability and with pure
devotion.
164. The various chapters are pure pots of gold which are filled
with Sree Sai Satcharita, like the waters of the Ganges, by
the son of Raghunath, to drive away the pride of the seekers
of liberation.
165. In the canopy of the battlefield of various books, the son
of Raghunath has raised victory pillars of the chapters for
destroying the demons of evil feelings, deceit and false
pride, with the sword of his intellect.
166. The book is a five-wick lamp, studded with gems to wave
round the king among Saints! The chapters narrate the
stories which are wicks of oil, the light of which brings
detachment and peace.
167. The book is Maya which entices the world. The chapters are
arms raised high and the meaning of the stories are
bracelets (worn on the upper arm) decorating the body ready
to embrace Sai, Brahman Incarnate.
168. The Sai Satcharita is the universal sovereign amongst books.
The chapters are pleasing, clever minstrels, narrating
faith, knowledge, the Vedantic beauty and its vast glory.
169. The Sai Satcharita is the market place for spirituality and
each chapter therein is an emporium. The stories of the
experiences are the objects fully stocked there, arranged
neatly by the greatest among the poets.
170. The book is formidable as the span of the Ganges. The
chapters are the compact ‘ghats’ of just proportions. The
flow of stories is sweet as nectar and vast, by the Guru’s
Grace and formidable greatness.
171. It is not just a book but a wish-fulfilling tree, which the
people engrossed in mundane existence find barren but for
the seekers of liberation it gives only the actual
experience of liberation.
172. This alone can be called a real memorial which destroys the
darkness and tribulations of the mundane existence and saves
from the hell of greed and illusion. It is certainly a giver
of peace.
173. The author, Govindrao by being a bee at the lotus feet of
Sai Sadguru, always savours the newly drawn sweet honey.
174. His surname was Dhabholkar and he was engaged in serving the
British government. He was learned, full of humility, well-
behaved and well-qualified.
175. Rakhumabai was his wife, virtuous, devoted and full of good
qualities, dedicated to her husband and always submissive.
She had confirmed faith in Sai.
176. Dapoli, near Vengurla, was the original place of domicile of
the poet. Later on Kelva was the village, for the family
forefathers.
177. In ‘Shake’ 1781 (1859 A.D.) on the 5th day of the dark
fortnight of Margashir month, the blessed and meritorious
Govind was born to Lakshmi, the wife of Raghunath.
178. He belonged to the Goud Saraswat Brahmins caste and
to the Bharadwaj gotra. He died at the age of seventy in
Shake 1851, on the ninth day of the dark fortnight of Ashad
month.
179. In ‘Shake’ 1844 (1922 A.D.), in the month of Chaitra, he
commenced writing this book and completed upto the fifty-
second chapter by Shake 1851 (1929 A.D.), in the month of
Jeshtha.
180. Govindrao had only one son and five daughters of which four
were married. The son was also married and was studying
medicine; and the unmarried daughter was also doing the
same.
181. Now I shall mention the procedure of recitation (of the
book), as well as the easy method of doing a reading within
seven days, as laid down in the Gurucharitra or other such
books. Listeners are requested to pay attention.
182. Do the recitation with a pure heart and devotion, completing
it in one day or two days or three days. Sai Narayan will be
gratified.
183. Otherwise, complete it easily in a week and you will have
immense good fortune on a continuing basis. Sai will fulfil
the heart’s desire and the fear of the worldly existence
will be destroyed.
184. Begin the recitation on a Thursday, in the early morning
after a bath. Sit on your ‘asan’ (seat for prayer), after
quickly completing your usual routine.
185. Make a pleasing, large canopy with banana plants, ‘kardali’2,
and beautiful cloth covering over it and let it be well-
decorated.
186. In it, let there be a raised platform (for the book) and
decorate all the four sides of it with colourful ‘rangoli’3,
which are pleasing for the eyes.
187. Making an image of Sai Sadguru or taking a beautiful picture
of him, place it carefully on the high platform. Make
obeisance to him with love.
188. Tying the book in a silken cloth, place it near the Sadguru.
After worshipping both with ‘panch upachar’, 4 commence the
reading.
189. Observe the holy vows5 for eight days, having only milk or
fruits or roasted grain of any one kind, eating only once or
having only one meal.
190. Facing the east and keeping the image of the Sadguru in the
heart, do the recitation of the book with a calm mind and
with joy.
191. During the seven days, read the first eight chapters on the
first day, then the next eight on the second day, followed
by next seven on the third day. Then eight, six, eight and
seven chapters on the following four days, and only
‘Avataranika’ on the eighth day.
192. On the eighth day, at the end of the observance of vows and
of the offering of ‘naivedya’ to Sai Narayana, feed friends,
relatives and Brahmins with delicacies and give ‘dakshina’
to them to the best of one’s ability.
193. Inviting the Vedic Brahmins, have them chant the Vedas at
night, offer them sugar flavoured milk and give them a
respectful send-off, after they are well satisfied in body
and mind.
194. Finally, after doing obeisance at the Sadguru’s Feet, offer
him appropriate ‘dakshina’ and send that to the Treasury (of
the Shirdi Sansthan) to augment the funds of the Sansthan.
195. Lord Sai will be gratified thereby, and he will bless the
devotee. The snake in the form of the worldly existence will
be destroyed and the treasure of liberation will be revealed
to him.
196. Listeners, may you feel at home with the Saint. You may
forget the ‘Avataranika’, but keep an eye on the meaning of
the book. This is the earnest request of this humble one, at
your feet.
197. Virtuous listeners, be very merciful to this humble one till
the end of time. I place my head at your feet. Baba’s Bal
prays thus to you.
198. Whatever is very deficient, attribute it to me. Take the
essence, you listeners, and act in such a way that the mind
is resplendent.
199. Obeisance to Sai, the son of Shiva (i.e. Ganesha); obeisance
to Sai, seated on the Lotus (i.e. Brahmadev): obeisance to
Sai, the killer of the demon Madhu (i.e. Vishnu). Obeisance
to Sai, the five-faced Lord (i.e. Shiva).
200. Obeisance to Sai, the son of Atri (i.e. Datta); obeisance to
Sai the killer of the demon Paka (i.e. Indra); obeisance to
Sai, the lover of the night (i.e. the Moon); obeisance to
Sai, the Lord of Fire.
201. Obeisance to Sai the Consort of Rukmani, Obeisance to Sai
the Sun of the Mind; obeisance to Sai the Ocean of
Knowledge; obeisance to Sree Sai, Dñyaneshwara.
202. The ‘Avataranika’ is the verbal ‘pushpanjali’ (offering of
flowers). Similar is the obeisance of glorious names which I
have prayed offering them at the feet of the Guru. Mother
Sai be gratified.
This is the end of the fifty-third chapter of Sree Sai Samartha
Satcharita, written by Baba’s slave, Bal, impelled by Saints and
virtuous people, called “Avataranika” (Epitome).
This is offered to Sree Sadguru Sainath.
May there be auspiciousness!
Notes :
1.
The story is given in Chapter 11 in respect of Dr. Pandit, so it
is no longer being printed in Chapter 42 of the Satcharit.
2.
Banana like plant with flowers.
3.
Designs made on the ground (floor) with coloured, powdered chalk.
4.
Sandalwood paste, flowers, incense, light and ‘naivedya’.
5.
Bathing and wearing clean clothes, fasting, remaining pure and
moral, celibate, and sleeping on the floor.
Baba was fond of playing with children
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