Guest guest Posted March 12, 2006 Report Share Posted March 12, 2006 SAI THE GOD ON EARTH "A HOLY BOOK IS THE PRECIOUS LIFE BLOOD OF A DEVOTEE'S SPIRIT" By N. M. DAS [continued from previous part] VIII. THE SIGNIFICANCE OF NINE "If nine forms of Bhakti are followed devotionally GOD manifests Himself in the home of a Devotee- SAIBABA According to Hindu Mythological belief when adverse circumstances prevail in the life, it is generally believed that the present suffering is on account of the past misdeeds and the Hindus are advised to perform navagraha pooja, so that the evil effects may be mitigated if not eradicated rootlessly. The Nava Graha's are Bhaskara Chandra, Angaraka, Budha, Grahaspathy, Shokula, Shani, Rahu and Kethu. It has historical relevance, for during the regime of Akbar, The Great in Mogul Dynasty the court was adorned with NAVARATNA. In Shri Sai Satcharita the significance of Nine is three fold. 1. Once a merchant came to SHIRDI. Before, him, the Mara passed Nine Balls of stool. He got peace of mind by gathering all the Nine balls in his Dhotar. Mr. Patankar who came to SHIRDI to have the Darshan of BABA asked Ganesh Damodar alias Dada Kelkar what BABA means the later replied that the Mare is God's grace and the Nine balls excreted are the nine forms of Bhakti viz., 1. Shravana (Hearing), 2. Kirtana (Praying), 3. Smarana(remembering), 4. Padasevana (restoring of feet), 5. Archana (Worship), 6. Nimaskara (bowing), 7. Dasya(Service) 8. Sakhyatva (friendship), 9. Atmanivedana (Surrender of the self). If these are devotionally followed, Lord Hari will be pleased and manifests himself in the home of a Devotee, 2. Once SAI BABA appeared in disguise of a Fakir before Mrs., Kulkarni at Thana and asked Dakshina. The lady gave him a rupee. SAI- BABA gave her a small pocket of UDI and asked her to keep it in the Shrine along with the photo for worship. At that time her husband was not available at the house. When he returned, his wife narrated this incident. On hearing, Mr. Kulkarni said that had he been present at the time of the visit of the Fakir he would have offered Rupees Ten as Dakshina instead of rupee one. One fine day Mr. Kulkarni went for a walk with his friend Mr. Chitra. He met the same fakir when he demanded Dakshina. Mr. Kulkarni gave him a rupee. He again putforth his hand. Kulkarni gave rupees two. Still the fakir was not satisfied. Then he borrowed rupees three from his friend Chitra and gave to Baba. The later demanded more, Mr. Kulkarni took BABA to his house and offered Rupees three for the fourth time (in all nine rupees). The fakir looked unsatisfied. Then Mr. Kulakarni gave him ten rupees Note. BABA took ten rupees note and the nine rupees consecrated by BABA's touch were returned to Mr. Kulkarni. The figure nine denotes the nine types of devotion- 3. Again the significance of nine was recorded in Shri Satcharita when BABA, gave rupees Nine (coins) to Laxmibai Shinde at the time of passing away, This lady was the strongest devotee of SAI BABA. She served BABA day and night. BABA wanted to give some precious thing in return of meritorious services. On Vijayadashmi (Dasara) i.e., 15-10- 1918 Just before BABA crossed the border of line put his hand in pocket and gave her once rupees Five (5) and again rupees four (i) in all rupees Nine (9). This figure Nine are the Characteristics of a good disciple which she remembered for ever and also is a standing proof at SHIRDI even now for the devotees to pray and get SAI's Asheervad. IX. BABA'S OMNISCIENCE "Though I AM here I know what you do beyond seven seas". SAI BABA BABA's omniscience is a Godly characteristic, His forecast, prediction about the present and future, and reading of minds of the people never failed. He could tell well in advance the dangers and evil effects of the day and the future to the devotees who came to him and at the same time offered practical solution, and precautionary measures to be taken, through HIS unique and wonderful directives and suggestions. Let a man be faraway, he cannot escape from the gaze of SAI is substantiated in the following examples. Sri Noolkar a sub-judge of Pandharapur came to SHIRDI to improve his health. BABA, blessed him and he left SHIRDI. A pleader from Pandharapur came to BABA fell on his feet and offered Dakshina without being asked for. BABA said very surprisingly that how cunning the people are? They fall at the feet and offer Dakshina, inwardly abuse and speak ill of others at the back. Then the pleader said to Kaka Saheb Dixit that BABA's remarks were fully applicable to him and were correct. SHIRDI is some three hundred miles away from Pandharapur. BABA by his omniscience revealed the discussions that took place in bar association at Pandharapur about the learned Sub- Judge. The pleader made critical estimate of the Sub-Judge's visit to SHIRDI. The pleader was put to shame and thought that be should not speak ill of others. In 1910 Lala Lakshmi Chand who saw Baba surrounded by Bhaktas in a dream was astonished to see the same figure in a photo placed before the audience by Das Ganu while performing kirtan, He was coming to SHIRDI on his way he inquired with some fellow passengers about BABA. They informed him that SAI BABA was a great Saint. When he came near he saw SAI whose face tallied with the person in his dream. BABA said "You cunning fellow where was the need for you to ask others about ME? Is your dream not real? Lakshmichand felt very deeply about BABA's omniscience and begged pardon. In Burhanpore, a lady saw BABA at her door asking for Kichidi. She informed her husband and both Came to SHIBDI and stayed for (14) days worshipping BABA. Due to some unavoidable reasons she could not offer Kichidi all these days. On fifteenth day she came to BABA with kichidi. BABA who knew all about this was anxiously waiting for her offering; HE left out all other dishes offered by devotees and ate kichidi happily. This shows BABA's love foe his devotees. Megha of Viramgaon was an orthodox Brahmin and a staunch devotee of Lord Shiva. On his way to SHIRDI he thought that SAI-BABA was a Muslim, and why should he bow before him? When became" near, BABA angrily uttered go away, Why to meet him when he lose his caste. Megha wondered as to how baba knew about what was passing in his mind on the way to shirdi. Once BABA told a rich man who came to him for Brahma Jnana that there were rupees two hundred and fifty in his pocket. On counting the gentleman found exactly the same figure. He fell on BABA's feet for his omniscience. Shri Harishandra. Pitale came to SHIRDI with his family. He placed his sick son on baba's feet and prayed for health. Mrs. Pitale wept bitterly. BABA said 'have patience* and ordered to go to their lodge. Pitale's family became desperate and came to the lodge with a heavy heart and doubted whether the boy would be protected and saved by BABA. See the miracle of our Sad Guru, the boy recovered immediately. BABA who read the mind of the couple said "all your doubts and fear might have calmed down". Saints like GOD depend on the devotee who surrender whole-heartedly and pray with strong faith. Once in 1916 Shri Shantamm Nachra Debathari forget to give Annas two given by his friend Shri V. S. Samant. BABA reminded Shantaram who gave him and asked baba's pardon. Shri Bapu Saheb Booty who was at SHIBDI got a prediction from a great astrologer named Naiia Saheb Dengale that the day was worst and most unfavourable. BABA who was omniscient told Booty that he need not be afraid of death, 'Allah will save him'. As soon as Booty entered the house he saw a snake. He was frightened and prayed. BABA. The snake soon disappeared. This is how BABA saved, the life of his devotee. Once BABA had beaten the ground with his Satka and asked Abdul to bring lantern. Amir Shakkar who sat near BABA took fear, when the light was brought, Amir saw a snake moving towards him BABA gave the timely warning and saved Amir. Once BABA asked Bala Saheb Miriaker whether he knew about Lamba Babu viz., serpent. The later did not understand BABA's word and left SHIRDI with Shama as per the advice of BABA, They reached Chaitali at 9-00 P.M. and encamped in Marathi temple. A snake sat unobserved on a portion of Miriakar's dhotor. The peon brought a lantern and shouted serpent, serpent. Bala Saheb was terribly frightened. SHAMA was also greatly surprised, the snake did not bite. Then they remembered the words Lamba Baba of BABA and thanked for saving life. Sri B.V. Deo the Mamlatedor in Thana District was taken away by surprise to hear that Sri SAI BABA as promised came and participated in religious ceremony in guise of a Sanyasi along with two. Nobody recognized him. Here on that particular day the devotees were with BABA in Dwarakamai only. They could hardly believe. This incident shows BABA's all pervasiveness. Living in SHIRDI, BABA assumed different forms and increased the faith of devotees by his indescribable powers. Once a devotee from Goa sent (300) three hundred mangoes to SAI BABA. BABA kept four mangoes in the pot and all the others were given to SHAMA. Nobody knew as why BABA retained four mangoes. Then Damu Anna who had no issues came to BABA. Astrologer told him that he had no issues at all in his horoscope. He became very disappointed and prayed BABA. BABA who expected him and had already reserved four mangoes, handed over to him with instructions to see that the four mangoes were to be eaten by his junior wife and she will have four daughters. baba's words proved and the astrologer's prediction failed. Once a Sudhak of yoga who had no peace of mind had come to BABA and observed baba eating bread with raw onion. He doubted whether this ordinary man could solve his problem. BABA who read his mind uttered that he who has the power to digest onions should eat and none else. The Yogi's hair stood on all over his body. BABA seeing his feeling and repentance called him and blessed. It is very interesting to note that one had to stay at SHIRDI as BABA wished and had to leave when told. Staying and leaving depended upon the will of BABA. Those who disobeyed BABA's instructions suffered and wore unsafe. The below instances proved the words of Once Tatya Kote Patil asked BABA to permit him to leave for Kopargaon Bazar. BABA did not agree and said not to make haste. Seeing the anxiety BABA asked him to take Shama along with him. This also he did not oblige and drew his Tonga. After going to some distance the Tonga fell down, and Tatya received minor injuries. On another occasion Tatya while going to Khalhar village faced the similar accident. He remembered SAI and felt for not having obeyed HIS advice. Once a European gentleman was advised to leave SHIRDI the next day. Without caring BABA's words he left the place the same day in a Tonga, Seeing a bicycle in front; the horses frightened and ran fast and the Tonga fell down. The gentleman sustained injuries. He was admitted in Kopargaon hospital. Kaka Maha Jani came to SHIRDI from Bombay with the Sole intention of staying for about a week. When he prostrated BABA told him to leave SHIRDI the next day only. Kaka Maha Jani reluctantly left; As soon as he came to office he was informed that his boss was feeling his absence very badly for some official purpose. He said BABA's word was law. BABA's omniscience is beyond any doubts. He gave Darshan to the devotees who surrendered to him at far off places and dragged them to SHIRDI. Mrs. Sapitnekar Kakaji Vaidya of Nasik and Panjabi Ramalal of Bombay are a few examples out of many to substantiate the above-Now a few words about BABA's Remniscience. The story of two goats and Veerabhadrappa and Chenabassappa is well known in the SHRI SAI SATCHABITA. BABA narrated the previous life in the above two Cases and explained the history of previous births as human beings. Hemandpant says that the accumulation and restoration of merits in past make us fortunate and lucky in the present janma, to have the Darshan and close association of great saints. Devotees don't know but the omnipotent knows. Once BABA told Shama very affectionately "You were with ME during seventy two generations. BABA said unless there is some relationship nobody goes any where". He proved the saying of Lord Shri Krishna in BHAGAVADGITA "I and you have passed through many rounds of births. I remember them all but you don't know them". X. SAI POOJA "As all the rivers join the sea, in the same way the different spiritual paths reach ME" - SAI BABA The word Pooja is understood in terms of Japa or worship. It is one of the most accepted and sacred rituals performed by devotees. To Muslims it is known as NAMAZ. Worship may be done in the houses of the devotees or in temples, mosques and churches daily or on some festival occasions. Before performing the Pooja to a particular deity, Lord Sri Rama, Vishnu Shiva or any other favorite deity GOD or GODESSES the Pooja of Lord Shri Ganesh Maharaj is performed at first. The traditional method of Pooja is that after taking bath, the home deity is cleaned. Then sandal wood paste will be applied on the forehead of idol followed by the application of KUM KUM. Then the lighting of lamps, lighting the joss sticks, placing the flowers, offering Naivedya and finally waving the Arati by burning the camphor will be done. The pundits and learned people recite slokas in Sanskrit or in the relevant language. After observing all the above formalities, a devotee is likely to get mental satisfaction. Now coming to SAI BABA and SAI POOJA, SAI BABA himself said, "I do not require any paraphernalia for worship either eight fold or sixteen fold. If you always say SAI, I shall take you over the seven seas. Believe in these words and you will certainly be benefited". Prom this it is quite evident that SAI BABA was not very particular about SAI POOJA on traditional lines. The effect of Pooja may not necessarily be magical. GOD may or may not give his Darshan to a true devotee. It is a fact that true devotee of GOD is subject to many hardships. Indian history had already recorded the wonderful experience of Bhaktha Ram Das. He had full faith in Lord Sri Rama and he was his strongest devotee but there was never a chance in the whole life of this pious man to have the Darshan of GOD. This does not mean that Sri Rama was not with him, It is at the eleventh hour the Lord came to his rescue when he was in jail. From this it can be safely concluded that the devotees need not be disappointed for not having the Darshan of Lord Shri Sai Baba even though SAI POOJA is 'being performed very honesty. In our daily life we are likely to get disheartened while passing through trials, which are the test to measure our spiritual strength. SAI BABA once tested, some devotees in this way, Fakir Pir Mohammed of Malegaon alias Bade Baba who was very close to him was asked by BABA to cut the Goat and offer as an oblation. He refused to do so. Then Shama was asked. He went to bring knife, Meanwhile Baba asked Kaka Saheb Dixit, who was a pure Brahmin, He readily accepted and raised his hand with knife and when the knife was just nearing the throat of the goat BABA said 'stop'. People all around wondered to see that a Brahmin was ready to kill a goat. Kaka Saheb said that I always mediate on you and your word is law. Blind surrender and obedience to Guru is my duty. Hemandpant recorded this incidence in SEI SAI SATCHARITA to point out there are three kinds of disciples. First or the best of these disciples who act blindly on the advice of a Guru without thinking any thing except Guru. Second or middle class is referred to those who give second consideration to Guru's order and third those who neither obey nor disobey Guru but go on postponing the order of Guru SAI BABA never objected when he was worshipped in different ways. He did not advocate any particular method of worshipping the GOD. There is no point in imitating the Slokas blindly without understanding the meanings and pronouncing words properly, one should be quite clear about Pooja and must not invite metaphysical problems and doubts. Pooja is just like horizon and is not subject to diminishing process. It is not very easy to concentrate towards GCD in the midst of many worries. If a sansari performs Pooja with full devotion, whole heartedly even for a minute it is more sacred and acceptable to GOD than a Sanyasi who does penance under a tree for the last one year. Because of non-attachment there is no wonder in it. SAI POOJA is very simple and most convenient and depends upon the degree of devotion and element of satisfaction which one gets from it. It is an individual affair and left to oneself but however a simplified way of worshipping SAI is given below, Repeat: "Om Sainathayanamaha" "Om Samrath Sad Guru SHRI SAINATH MAHARAJ KI JAI "Om SAI SHRI SAI JAYA JAYA SAI" Or still much more and the simplest way is to chant SAI SAI as many times as possible whenever and wherever one may be. One should not be disappointed for not having the effect of SAI POOJA immediately. Let us hope that SAI POOJA will bring to us SAI blessings and down the gap between expectation and attainment considerably. Let the simplified SAI NAMA JAPA make tomorrow better than today and day after tomorrow still much better than tomorrow. XI. BABA LEAVES FOR HEAVEN In 1916, SAI BABA gave an indication of leaving his mortal coil. People failed to understand him. 'It happened like this. On the most auspicious day i.e., on Vijayadashmi (Dasara) BABA all of a sudden became very wild in the evening. He took off all the worn clothes (head dress, langoti, kafni) tore them up and threw in the burning dhuni. He stepped naked before Dhuni. His face became red. He shouted angrily to find out whether be was a Muslim or Hindu. Everybody trembled and nobody was brave enough to come near. Atlast Bhagoji Shinde (the leper devotee)' came' near tied langoti and very coolly asked the strange behavior of BABA. BABA struck the ground with Sakta said that today is my Seemollanghan day (crossing the border). At about 11 P.M. he assumed normalcy, Averting the death of Sri Ramachandra Patil, BABA said Tatya Patil would die on 15-10-1918 and urged to maintain sovereign secrecy As told by Baba Tatya Kote Patil fell sick and was bed ridden in the first fort night of October 1918. Baba was also suffering from fever. Both Tatya Kote and BABA became serious. Vijayadashmi dawned and Tatya Kote's position became very serious and there was no ray of his survival. Very strange and peculiar thing happened. Instead of Tatya Kote, BABA passed away on Tuesday, 15-10-1918 at about 2-30 P.M. BABA exchanged death and saved the life of his beloved devotee Tatya Kote. An air of surprise took every body away. This incident is worth remembering in the history of the world, for this is first and perhaps last example BABA set up. Most unexpected, extraordinary and supernatural event for all of us to remember forever. Here the reader and devotees feel and put a very pertinent question as why BABA exchanged death just for the sake of one devotee leaving many in sorrow ocean. The most convincing answer may perhaps be due to the meritourious services of Bayajabai. She was the mother of Tatya Kote and very faithful and a staunch devotee of BABA. She roamed in the jungle miles' together in search of BABA, and forced BABA to take lunch. On repeated requests and insistence BABA used to consume eatables very gladly. BABA used to consume eatables very gladly. BABA recognized her services and remembered through out his life and in the last she was suitably rewarded by way of making her son Tatya Kote alive, Tatya Kota right from childhood days, used to roam for BABA with his mother and used to say BABA "Mama, Mama". BABA developed invincible and inexplicable love for Tatya Kote. It is a general practice to hear the sacred books like Bhagavath Gita, Ramayana before ones' departure. BABA being an avatar set up this practice. He ordered to read SHRI RAMA VIJAY on 15-10-1918. After Arati BABA asked his devotees to leave the Masjid for taking meals. All left except Lakshmibai Shinde, Shama, Bhagoj Shinde, Bayaji, Laxman Bala Shimpi and Nana Saheb, Nimonkar. BABA gave rupees nine to his beloved devotee Laxmibhai Shinde just before passing away. He leaned on Bayaji's body and breathed his last. The news of BABA's passing away spread like wild fire in SHIRDI and all people men, women and children ran in to Masjid and wept bitterly-Some became unconscious. Next day i.e. on Wednesday 16-10- 1918 SAI BABA appeared in a dream to Laxman Mama Joshi the uncle of Shama and asked him to worship. Laxman Mama. who was an astrologer came with Pooja material, and performed Kakad Arati with all due formalities. In the after noon Baba Saheb Jog performed noon Arati as usual on 16-10-1918 "Wednesday in the evening BABA's body was taken in procession and brought to wada and was interred to there with due formalities in Garbha i.e. the central portion reserved for Muralidhar. BABA become the Muralidhar and the Wada a temple, XII. SAI's PERSONALITY No power on earth can assess SAI's personality. He is unparallel not only in the history of human beings but Saint's as well. His motherly love, sweet and nectar like words are unforgettable chapters. He was an embodiment of several and most appreciable requisites. Inwardly he was always engrossed in self-realisation. He spoke very liberally and freely. He conquered the hearts of all the people including those who had no belief in him. His behavior and action was very peculiar and unique. He was all pervasive. He used to tell a number of wonderful stories. He allowed his devotees to serve in any way, they liked including shampooing his legs. He who had no peace of mind was made peaceful, sins atoned and bad habits removed. He purified the hearts. He had patience and tolerance in abundance. He had full belief in Karma. He made no distinction between a rich or poor, big or small, Hindu or Muslim. Having his darshan immensely benefited people. He was impartial and a reservoir of solace. The cruel people were changed into soft. He used to derive pleasure in serving the humanity, day and night Prof. G.G. Narke says BABA's words were highly cryptic symbolical, and allegorical. He was Guru of Gurus. (Sad Guru), The qualities, viz., non- attachment, knowledge, simplicity and above all generosity, were in him. BABA explained the inscrutable powers of Maya in these words, "As I have became a fakir, I have no house or wife and though leaving off all cares. I have stayed at one place. The inevitable, Maya teases me often. Though I forget Myself I cannot forget Her, She always envelops me. This Maya (illusive power) of the Lord (SHRI HARI) teases GOD Brahma and others, then what to speak of a poor Fakir like ME? How sweet and meaningful are these words? BABA's wonderful way of testing the devotees is one of the most striking characteristics. To quote an instance once SAI BABA went to Upasani Maha Baja in disguise of a naked Fakir. Upasani refused to offer Naivedya to BABA prepared for his Deity. When he came to know that the beggar was none except SAI BABA, he repented and requested BABA to pardon. He cut jokes in times of leisure and contemplation. He behaved like a man and used to sing and dance. When Megha, one of his most favorite devotees died, BABA shed tears and he too participated in the funeral orations Megha. The name of Allah was always in his lips. He honored religious books like Quoran, Ramayana, Bible etc; and advised devotees to go through Vishnu Sahasra Nam. He said that the scared books are very valuable and prove efficacious in the most critical times. He was yogi who had perfect control over body and mind. It is the special characteristics of BABA to keep the devotees under suspense and create the element of fear. This is perhaps to increase devotion towards the Almighty. BABA addressed women as mother, men as kaka, bapu Bhai etc', It is seen that many a saints left houses went to forests, caves, far away from the worldly people for mediation and were self absorbed. After attaining GOD vision, the Saints rarely bother about the worldly people. SAI BABA's case is quite different. He lived around us. Led the life of a beggar, taught people how to behave. HIS belonging consisted of a tumrel (tin pot) zoli, a challam tobocco, long kafni (piece of white cloth round his head) and a satka (short stick). HE was full of love beauty, purity, patience and divinity. His mercy was magnanimously pervasive and captivatingly persuasive. Another distinguishing feature of his life was selflessness, regularity and practicability. HE was the doctor of doctor's great spiritual soul and social reformer. HE elevated SHIRDI. No saint is a comparison to him in all aspects and respects in the realm of spiritualism. As depicted by Shri Hemandpant BABA's life contains the wisdom of Vedas, Upanishads and Gita in the shape of stories and miracles. SAI BABA is the eternal light of the world. Even in darkness light dawns for those who believe in HIM. XIII. GUIDELINES TO SHIRDI YATRA "I draw to ME MY devotees from far off distance a thousand koas away from ME like a sparrow with the thread tied to its feet" – SAI BABA Today SAI's name and fame has spread far and wide and people of different faiths from various parts of India and abroad are visiting SHIRDI. If places like Kashi, Pandharapur, Tirupathi, Nasik, Jagannath are holy places of pilgrimage to Hindus, Mecca to Muslims, Jerusalem to Christs, Gurudwara to Sikhs, SHIBDI to all religions in the world-It has become an international divine center. SAI's Durbar is open to all creeds and isms. The main reason for such a huge pilgrimage every day shows how popular SAI BABA is. He is fulfilling the desires of people in every walk of life. This is a novel feature worth appreciating; SAI is evergreen and ever lasting. It is better to know the important places to be visited in SHIRDI. As soon as one-steps in to the sacred soil of SHIRDI he may contact the SHIRDI Sansthan authority who will arrange for boarding and lodging. Then we can have the Darshan of Gurusthan. Samadhi Mandir, Dwarakamai Chavadi, Lendibag and memorable persons like Bhagat Mahalsapathi, Laxmibai Shinde and others, each one of them has its own story to tell us and remind the glorious and most fortunate days of the past and a call for the future prosperous and peaceful life. At SHIRDI the entire process of visiting all the above places may be completed within bo time. A few words about each make us understandable the significance and practical utility of the sacred place like. SHIRDI (1) GURUSTHAN "My Guru never expected anything from ME except Dakshina i.e. NISTHA (Faith) and Saboori (patience)" - SAI BABA BABA told many a times that He served his Guru for 12 years and performed penance beneath the earth and came out and sat under the Neem tree. On the advise of God Khandoba, a particular place was dug out and he bricks were found and underneath a flat stone. When the stone was removed a corridor was seen in which four lights were burning. The corridor led to a cellar where cow mouth shaped structure wooden boards necklaces was seen. Khandoba said this lad (that is SAI BABA) practiced deep penance here for 12 years. When people asked, BABA said that is his Guru's place. Bhagat, Mahalsapathi and other dear devotees of BABA bowed to Baba's Guru at first. Under the Neem tree the padukas footprints of Akkalkotkar Maharaj were installed by the will of SAI BABA. It is believed that he who burns incense on every Thursday and Friday before Gurusthan will be blessed. (2) SAMADHI MANDIR "He who steps in to MY SAMADHI MANDIE all his troubles cease" - SAI BABA On Wednesday 16-10-1918 BABA's body was taken in procession and brought to the wada and was inferred there with due formalities in the garbha i, e. the central portion reserved for, Muralidhar. In fact BABA became Muralidhar and the wada became a temple (holy shrine) At present it is known as Samadhi Mandir where hundred of people prostrate everyday before it and pray. On the Samadhi beautiful marble statue of BABA is installed. Devotees who visit Samadhi Mandir are apt to remember these golden words of BABA. "Believe me though I pass away my bones in tomb will give you hope and confidence. Not only myself but also my tomb would be speaking moving and communicating with those who surrender themselves whole-heartedly. Don't be anxious that I would, absent from you. You will hear MY bones speaking and discussing your welfare. But always remember ME believe in ME heart and soul then you will be most benefited", Thanks to SHIRDI Sansthan for maintaining it very neatly and awaking elaborate arrangements for providing Darshan of Lord Shri Sainath to hundreds of devotees daily, through a well organized queue system In the Samadhi Mandir the articles used by BAB A are kept, safely. Hundies are also placed in Samadhi Mandir. The devotees whose cherished desires are fulfilled by the grace of BAB A place the offerings Gold, Silver or Rupees in the Hundies. Even a flower placed on Samadhi Mandir with greatest love is accepted by BABA. Pilgrims are requested to attend Arati in the morning, noon, evening, night without fail. (3) DWARKAMAI "He who rests in her lap (Dwarakamai) all the sufferings end" - SAIBABA Dwarakamai the (Mosque), where BABA stayed for nearly (60) year's very near to Gurusthan. About Dwarakamai BABA said many a times "She wards off all dangers and anxieties of the devotees. This Masjid Mai is very merciful-She is the mother of all the devotees whom she will save in calamities-Once a person sits on her lap all his troubles are over. He who rest in her shade gets bliss". In Dwarakamai, BABA used to sleep alternatively. He used to lit the earthen lamps and kept burning through out nights. Baba sat on Gadi (stone) and blessed the devotees. HE prepared prasad in a Hundi and distributed to the devotees. In Dwarakamai he kept the DHUNI burning day and night. HE always sat in front of DHUNI facing south with his left hand resting on the wooden railing-A beautiful photo of BABA is placed before DHUNI. BABA himself distributed the sacred ashes Udi from Dhuni to the devotees. Some times passed Udi in the palms of devotees, and marked their fore heads with Udi with HIS finger. Udi cured the most dreadful diseases during his lifetime and now also. The articles such as grinding stone, garments etc., also kept in Dwarakamai. Devotees who visit Dwarakamai may kindly feed the Dhuni with firewood and the earth lamps with oil. Dwarakamai stands a living symbol today for national integration and solidarity to Hindu Muslim unity with a consciousness' of SABKA MALIK EK HAI. 4) CHAVADI "My words are always pregnant with meaning and never hallow" - SAI BABA Chavadi is located at a distance of about 106 feet from Samadhi Mandir and 50 feet from Dwarakamai. Chavadi is sanctified by BABA due to his stay. It has two small portions. On the right side a big portrait of BABA in a sitting posture is placed on a wooden stool. In front of this portrait we can see the padukas of BABA. One oil lamp is kept burning at all, times before BABA. In the left portion one wheel chair of white color and one wooden bed stead are kept one palanquin is also kept. These are preserved as memento. During the life time of BABA His Arati was being sung in the Chavadi. On every Thursday BABA is taken in palanquin (palki) in procession. One day he slept in Masjid and next day in Chavadi. Bapu Saheb Jog washed the feat of BABA in a silver plate and worshipped HIM with due formalities then besmeared His arms with sandalpaste and offered tambal betel leaves. Shama then prepared a chillum and handed over to Tatya Kote who drew a flame by a puff and gave it to BABA. After baba had smoke it was passed on to Mahalsapathi and then to others. Tatya Kote who addressed BABA as Mama, threw a golden embroidered beautiful shaal over BABA's body and cool him from- Chavadi-Then Kaka Saheb Dixit came forward with a silver plate containing flowers besmeared with gulal (Red powder) and threw on BABA's face. Thereafter Tatya Kote and Mahalsapathi held the left and right hand respectively. Devotees both men and women put a mugut (Crown) placed garlands flowers and jewels round HIS neck. The devotees conducted Bhajan dances with all musical instruments before BABA, and shouted the victory of BABA. Finally Bapu Saheb Jog waved the Arati over baba and after the Arati was over the devotees returned homes with Sai's blessings. In short words fail to describe the scene and splendor of the occasion. (5) LENDIBAGH "He who rests here gets peace of mind" - SAI BABA SAI BABA never sat idle. He was always busy some times mediating GOD, on many occasion 'attending to his devotees. He brought Jasmines and marigolds from Rahata and planted, watered them and transferred the wilderness in to a lovely garden. Now this garden is known Lendibagh with beautiful surroundings and attractions. The pilgrims can spend time most pleasantly in this garden. It is a resting place for relaxation and a place of interest to photographers. In Lendibagh BABA kept a lamp burning known as NANDADEEP. It is kept burning since then and the devotee may pour oil in it during their visit to SHIRDI as a token of devotion and worship. (6) BHAGATH MHALASAPATHI 'Allah Rakhega Vaisa Ho Rehena" - SAI BABA Out of all the devotees who were nearest to BABA Bhagat Mahalsapathi and Tatya Kote were the fore most. These two slept with BABA in Dwarakamai and Chavadi. BABA loved these two equally. BABA addressed Mahalsapathi as Bhagat for his noble qualities. As Sri Veeranjaneya is to Sri Rama so Mahalsapathi to SAI. He was a priest in Khandoba temple at SHIRDI and the first who recognized BABA's worth. He applied sandal paste to BABA's forehead daily and worshipped. It is he who had given the name of SAI, with which all the devotees through out the world remember. He faced poverty during the whole life. He never bothered about worldly life; He dedicated his whole life in spiritual matters; serving BABA with all his might and main. In Chavadi procession he caught hold of the right hand of BABA. SAI BABA had full confidence in Mahalsapathi. In 1886 when BABA tried to yogic exercise of facing his Prana high up in order to free himself from a severe attack of Asthma he requested him to look after his body as it would remain motionless for about seventy two (72) hours. Mahalsapathi guarded the body of BABA in his lap for three (3) days. As per the order of BABA Mahalsapathi put his hand on BABA's heart chanting the name of GOD. BABA made him alert from dosing whenever HE felt his hand heavy on HIS heart. In spite of leading a very miserable life he never accepted huge money offered by devotees. HE believed in the famous dictum of BABA i.e. Poverty is far better than prosperity. He preferred spiritual life to material and setup a model example to all others. To him each word of BABA proved a reality. SAI BABA gave to Mahalsapathi HIS satka (stick) kafni and coins, which are preserved at his house. Devotees can see them even now. Mahalsapathi left his body on sacred day Ekadashi Monday 11-9- 1922 and his soul merged in SAI. (7) LAXMIBHAI SHINDE My devotees will never perish" - SAI BABA Another devotee whom BABA loved was Laxmi Bhai Shindee BABA in return of her meritorious services just before leaving the mortal coil on 15-10-1918 gave her 4+5 = 9 rupees. These nine are the characteristics of a good disciple. The nine coins, which are framed and kept at her house, are open to the devotees to be worshipped. The pilgrims may kindly visit the house of Bhagat Mahalsapathi and Laxmibhai. Shinde, which are very near to Dwarakamai. All the above most important places are within one to two furlongs in SHIRDI and can most conveniently be visited within an hour (8) BABA's INTIMACY WITH OTHEE DEVOTEES BABA used to get Biksha from five selected households in SHIRDI Sri Vaman Tatya, Sri Sakhram Sheke. Sri Nandu Marwadi, Sri Appaji Kote and Sri Tatya Kote. These were the lucky persons from whom BABA accepted Biksha. The devotees who dined with BABA wore Kakasaheb Dixit, Gopal Rao Booti, Tatya Patil Kote, Nanasaheb Nimmonkar, Bimchanda Patil Madhobosle, Peer Mohammed Yaseen, Madhava-Rao Deshapande alias (SHAMA) and Bhagat Mahalsapathi. (9) FESTIVALS The important festivals hi SHIRDI are PUJNIYA THITHIC babA's crossing the border of life (Dasara Festival) Guru Pournima, Sri Ramanavami and Gokul Ashtami. The Puniya Thithi festival is celebrated for four days. It is a very big gathering where nearly 4 lakns of people participate and worship BABA through paying homage, Kirtan, singing, taking procession. In order to see that the above festivals come out; most; successfully the court receiver holds a number of meetings well in advance for preparing the ensuing amazements. The work will be assigned to the responsible officers of SHIRDI SANSTHAN. 10) SAI BHOJAN HALL We thank SHIRDI SANSTHAN for arranging meals as SAl PRASAD at a very cheaper and nominal rate. Thousands of devotees who went to SHIRDI expressed complete satisfaction for a bellyful meal. This is one of the wonders of SAI. At a time hundreds of people can dine in SAI Bhojan Hall. Let him be a rich or poor, big or small all stand and make in a 'Q'. No VIP treatment. We are very lucky to have such facilities. We feel as if we are at home and more than this it is all due to SAI's charisma, While returning from SHIRDI devotees are requested to bring along with them UDI, SAI PHOTOS, SAI rings, SAI literature etc., as per the likings. (11) SOME WORTH REMEMBERING SERVICES IN SAI DARBAR AT SHIRDI 1. Bhagat Mahalsapathi Slept with SAI BABA at Dwarakamai and Chavadi applying sandal paste on the forehead of BABA daily. In Chavadi procession he caught hold of BABA's right hand. 2. Tatya Koto Slept with bAba in Dwarakamai and Chavadi. In Chavadi procession he threw a golden embroidered shaal over BABA's body and caught hold of BABA's left hand. 3. Madhavarao Despande introduced of devotees to BABA, Reading out the letters addressed to BABA 4. Das Ganu Maharaj spread of SAI's teachings through Kirtans, Bhajans. 5. Bayaj Bai was feeding BABA with jowar ki roti. 6. Bapu Sabeh Jog was Performing Arati to BABA daily, 7. Kashiram Shimpi was stitching BABA's garments. 8. Bhagoji Shinde (Leper) was messaging BABA's body. 9. Abdulla was lighting the lamps at Dwarakamai. 10. RadhakrishNA Aayi was cleaning the streets where BABA used to walk daily. 11. Solicitor Dixit and Sathe: They built Wada for the convenience of devotees. 12. Gopalarao Booty built the resting place of BABA's body. 13. Shri Hemandpant Writings of the most sacred hook "SRI SAI SATCHARITA" in Marathi. "BOLO SAMARATH SADGUBU SHRI SAI NATH MAHA BAJ KI JAI". EPILOGUE In the end, a very few concluding remarks are offered. All the maxima in this booklet are not only to prove the supremacy of Lord SHRI SAI BABA but lead ultimately to the conclusion that SAI is undoubtedly the GOD on earth. SAI is our Annadatha, Sadguru, Philosopher, Friend, Doctor, Teacher, Kalpavriksha and a boon bestowing hand. We are very lucky to have the most valuable preachings, which continue to inspire all human cultures. SAI is over green and over lasting Lord. The greatness of SAI lies in the fact that HE is proving more active and responsive as before taking Maha Samadhi. This is indeed a great divine gift. HE performed a number of miracles to save the devotees from sufferings and calamities. A true devotee, who surrenders to Him whole- heartedly, will be protected undoubtedly. We the people or devotees who display SAI's photos on all sides in homes should not forgot that SAI is watching our day-to-day activities, whether good or bad. "Let noble thoughts come to us from all Forget the" word I "and say HE i.e., "SAI" devotionally, then the problems get solved by his grace. What is required is Guru Dakshina to SAI in terms of devotion and patience in plenty. In turn wait and see should be our motto. I feel as if we are all traveling in a ship which is in tempests SAI is our navigator to take us to the destination safely. Why fear when SAI is with us. HE will not let us drown. SAI had already assured that HE is always with the devotees who sing HIS songs and Leelas with unshakable belief. Let us chant SAI, SAI as many times as possible and cast our burden on HIM, It is hoped that after reading this booklet a reader is likely to get spiritual change leading to optimistic life by the grace of SAI BABA Let us try our best to spread SAI cult through out the world-I am quite sure that HIS benevolent rays shower on true devotees without fail and make the life peaceful, self supporting and blissful. Let all of us have SAI GURU and HIS preaching's as beacon light to bring heaven on earth. "BOLO SAMARATH SADGURU SHRI SAI NATH MAHARAJ KI JAI" With Sai love from Sai brothers - '' Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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