Sri Sathya Sai Hrudaya Nivasi-full Text

SRI SATHYA SAI HRUDAYA NIVASI

Samarppanam Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba often says that he belongs to the entire mankind. And yet, on the Day of Declaration, Bhagavan announced that He has come in human for, and has taken birth in Apasthamba Suthra, and Bharadwaja Gothra. Long time back, when I was, for the first time, reading this portion in Sathyam Sivam Sundaram, my mind raced back to my early childhood period, when I was initiated into Gayathri Japa Mantra, during the sacred thread ceremony. The priest also taught me another mantra, which serves as an introduction of ourselves while paying obeisance to elders. It runs as under:

Abhivaadhaye, Aangeerasa, Bharhasspathaya Bharadwaja, Thraya Risheya, Pravaraanyutha, Aapsthamba Suthra, Bharadwaja Gothraha Yadhu saaka adhyayet, Srinivasa Sharma naama, Aham Asmibhoho

Here, I, Srinivasan Sharma, identify myself before the elders to whom I am offering my pranams, by tracing the lineage from and my origin to the Rishi Bharadwaja. When I utter that I belong to the Bharadwaja Gothra, it traces, the lineage of the particular saint, i.e., this family has originated from Saint Bharadwaja. It was further explained to me by the priest that, having born in this lineage whoever claims to be of this Gothra, they are supposed to belong to the same family tree. Marriages amongst the members of the same Gothra are avoided because it is deemed that they are brothers and sisters belonging to the same family lineage.

(Please Note: When we write down the individual horoscopes, the Gothra is prominently written immediately after the name. The girls family and the boys family first make it sure that both families do not belong to the same Gothra.)

The above thoughts sounded so nice and pleasant, when I read that Sri Sathya Sai Baba belonged to Bharadwaja Gothra. It thrilled me to claim kinship with Swami on this plea and this feeling helped me to develop closeness with Swami in the years to come.

I am transposed to a state of bliss whenever I recall my pilgrimages to Swami, several times during the last 30 years. Swamis Grace flowing in abundance during these years had held me together through thick and thin. I always cherish the thoughts of the several events in my life when I had experienced Sais Grace protecting me and guiding me, all along. Without Swami, I shudder to think, how I would have survived in this world. At each of my faltering step, there has always been the Divine Hand stretched to pick me up and place me again on the path chosen by Him, for me to tread along.

Sweet memories, Divine experiences, all flash through my mind very often., I always feel truly blessed for the varied Divine experiences. Presently, invoking His blessings, I am trying to weave the various sequences of His Grace into a garland in the form of this Book, and offer the same at His Lots Feet. May I invite you my beloved Sai Brothers and Sisters, to travel along the pages and share the bliss with me. It would be a great revelation to experience how the Grace of Lord Sai, flows to you, when you completely surrender to HIM, and lead your life, following His Divine Directions.

V.Srinivasan

PRAYERS My Dearest Swami,

I offer my Pranams at your Lotus feet.

Born somewhere, bread somewhere, career elsewhere, I now stand at the cross road, expecting and waiting for the inviting call of Swami to put an end to my nomadic life, and help my settlement nearer to Swamis presence and abode. My life has traversed from humble origins through a rugged mountainous path to heights, only to roll down to depts., and again to revive gradually. Swami, you took charge of me, and since then you have been shaping my destinies and also supporting me to see though such destinies; good or bad. So far as this little self is concerned, it only knows to rush to you, as it has been doing all along, beseeching, particularly in helpless situations, crying out Swami, now you take charge; I surrender unto you totally and unconditionally!

This small book is just a feeble attempt of mine, born out of the little ego, that I too have run the race to capture your glory and that I too have been the proud recipient of your Grace which has bestowed on me, the thrills of various experiences. If, in this process, the experience and joy get shared and the reading of this book imparts some momentum and motivation to the readers, to adopt an attitude of total surrender in performing any task in life, then I would consider it an accomplishment; the credit of which I do not deserve.

Many devotees had prompted me and helped in bringing out this, in a book form. I pray to Bhagavan to bestow His Blessings and Grace on all those who have contributed in whatever form in the publication of this book.

With Pranams at your Lotus Feet,

V. Srinivasan

SRI SATHYA SAI HRUDAYA NIVASI (INDWELLER OF HEARTS)

Chapter-1

"Objects are not to fall on magic wand".

It was the year 1965, when I was employed in Bombay, that I was hearing, many people talking about Sai Baba. I was a regular visitor to Shirdi, offering worship at the Samaadhi very often. Now I am hearing the name of Sai Baba, still alive and that He is likely to visit Bombay very shortly! I felt something mystical about this, and I started enquiring what this was all about. One of my friends gave me a copy of a recently published English magazine Illustrated weekly of India, and showed me the cover page. There I could see the picture of a saintly man, but with a crown of hair on the head, holding out the right hand upwards, as if blessing somebody. This is Sai Baba, Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, said my friend, and urged me to read the cover story inside the magazine. The article mentioned about the reincarnation of Shirdi Sai Baba, as Sri Sathya Sai Baba, born again at Puttaparthi in Andhra Pradesh. The amazing miracles of materializing Rings, Pendants, Mangala Soothram, etc. vividly explained therein, were very difficult to believe. Something deep inside told me that there was nothing wrong in believing Him and it would still be better, if I could visit this Holy Man. There was excitement in my mind, to know that I am living during the period of an Avatar. We have only read or heard stories of various Avatars. I thought that if only it is true that Sai Baba is an Avatar, then it is really an unique chance to live during this period. We have seen Gods as idols in temples, and in pictures in our Pooja rooms. Here we hear that God is presently living on this earth, in human for, and that He is available for all the humanity. The more exciting news was that Sai Baba was likely to visit Bombay shortly and that we could see this God inhuman form for ourselves. I did not know what to do. Something precious was within our reach, during our lifetime. Great devotees had lived and served God during earlier Avatars. In Dwapara Yuga, it was said, that Gopies worshipped, served and lived ever in His memory. Arjuna was constantly with Krishna. The only thing that I cold understand was that it would be a God sent chance to live while God is on earth and to get opportunities to serve Him. However, we should deserve for such a grace. Would I deserve His Darshan? If He is God, then, He should know everything about me (About all of us), past present and future. Oh My God, I would have committed many a sins during this life. He would be knowing all about my deficiencies and blemishes and He might not like to see me at all. When Baba might come to Bombay, lakhs of devotees would be longing for His Darshan. Could it be assumed they are all free of sins? Then why not I also go and have His Darshan at least from a long distance! I was very much confused and restless for several days - to see Him or not to see Him! I could not concentrate on my office work and could not sleep peacefully. I wanted to know more about Sai Baba and started making enquiries with whomever I happened to contact. Many did not know about Baba nor had they heard of Him. They were looking at me curiously and perhaps thought that something was really wrong with me. Restless I was, yet I tried to engross myself in my office work. I was living alone since my wife had gone to her native place. We were waiting for the arrival of our first child. This was already causing tension. My confusing th9ughts of Baba added to my tension. My wife had developed some problems during her earlier pregnancy resulting in abortion. The specialist doctors had certified that she might not conceive again. The Grace of Sai flowing unto us, even before we came to know of Him, is a different story altogether and I shall narrate it, elsewhere in this book. Here, I only wish to mention that, in spite of the complications and anxieties, my wife insisted on going to her native place for delivery. It is a small

remote village in Kerala with no doctors and hospital facilities. Yet that was her wish that she wanted to be with her own mother. Sitting alone in the house, my thoughts were oscillating between my unconfirmed faith on Baba and fears on my wifes safe delivery. My dull mind was not able to knit the possibility of Babas Grace with a solution to my wifes problems. Then the thought suddenly flashed through my mind. Why not pray, to the till then unknown Baba and request Him to take care of the situation. Here, I was in Bombay, my wife in a remote village in Kerala, and Sri Sai Baba in Puttaparthi, also a remote village in Andhra Pradesh. If what others say to be true, that Baba is God, then He should be Omnipresent. He should be able to listen to my prayers, reach out to the Kerala Village, and bless the lady for a safe delivery. Slowly and steadily confidence started building up in me, in Babas divinity. At last with my sincere prayers, I placed the entire burden on Him. No more worries. No more tensions whatsoever disturbed me thereafter. I believed that He would take care of us. The timing was very perfect. I got a telegraphic message that a son was born. The delivery was normal and that my wifes mother herself was able to handle the situation. There were no complications, as we had feared all along. The same day, Bhagavan Baba had arrived in Bombay! Yet I was unaware of the Divine visit. I got a telephone call form one of my friends, asking me whether I had Babas Darshan. I said No, and in turn I enquired where I should go for Darshan. I was told that Darshan had been arranged daily morning and evening in the compound of a certain palace grounds at Worli area. Nothing could prevent me any longer. I rushed to Worli, and what did I see there! There was a huge crowd of devotees, singing Bhajans and I could see Baba far away, sitting on an ornate chair, listening to Bhajans. I was very late and had to stand at the entrance gate of the palace ground. I could not proceed further inside, because right up to the gate devotees were sitting. I was told that Baba would usually go around the devotees, so that every one could have very close Darshan and even a chance to touch His feet. I learnt further that, Bhagavan had already finished the rounds and anytime now Arathi would be offered, and He would go inside. There was no chance of seeing Him close by, on my first Darshan day. How unfortunate, I thought. Standing where I was, I prayed unto Him, thanking Him profusely for His Grace on my wife, who had no problems with her delivery. I spoke through my heart that I had come to Him and that He should accept me, in spite of all my deficiencies and to guide me through the rest of my life. I was emotionally surcharged, literally weeping and praying. Deep in my mind, I was aware that He was hearing my prayers. There was a slight movement. I watched Baba getting up. He was seen moving slowly along the central pathway. Ladies were sitting on one side and the gents on the other side. It was something strange in Bombay, to see ladies and gents sitting separately. Before I could realize it, Swami (as He is called reverently) was standing just in front of me! I was overwhelmed on seeing Sai so close to me, and I did not know what I should do. Could I talk to Him, or worship Him, but then how? Face to face with Baba, without any premeditated thought I just happened to catch hold of His both Hands. Baba, lowering His charming face to a side, just smiled at me. What a captivating and charming smile it was, which bestowed all the Divine Bliss! He did not speak. But instantly, it struck me that I had erred in holding His hands, and that Swami did not approve of my act. At the same time, a quotation in English, flashed through my mind. Objects are not to fall on magic wand. It took a few moments to realize the implications of my act and when it dawned on me, I just withdrew my hands. Benign Sai continued to smile, patted on my back and walked away. A magician normally holds a stick in his hands and touches on any object with this stick. The magicians stick is called magic wand. When the wand contacts any object, say a stone, it becomes an egg or something. It is the will of the magician. On the contrary if we put the same stone in the magicians wand, nothing will happen.

I have now understood that there is absolutely no gain for us, by holding His hands or touching His feet. We are only causing Him inconvenience or making ourselves a nuisance. We can touch Him only when He asks you to do so, if any benefit of His blessings is to result. After this first encounter with Divinity, I decided to wait for His call to take Namaskar. I waited and waited, year after year patiently, though I had frequent chances of having His Darshan that too very closely. But I dared not touch His Lotus Feet. The longed for chance did come! But, after a patient wait for the next 16 long years! Then this is a different story all together!


CHAPTER 2 THE CALL COMES THROUGH

It was the year of Swamis 70th Birthday celebrations. All over the world, Sai volunteers were engaged in various activities connected with the celebrations. I was also assigned with some important job. Due to some misunderstanding with the higher ups in the state organization, all the works allotted to me were withdrawn. I was made to feel that I was not wanted. I felt very sad. No activity whatsoever connected with Sai Seva was given to me. When all other devotees volunteers were involved in such holy activities, I was idle. This caused mental depression. I was worried about myself.

Then the call came through. A friend of mine from Delhi, also a devotee of Swami, informed me that he would be going to Shirdi and requested me to join him. I felt very happy when I heard this. We met in a mid way station and traveled together to Shirdi. Two days of Darshan at the Samaadhi relieved my depression very much, and I felt very normal, knowing fully well that I was with Swami, though in a different location.

On the third day, we were to leave Shirdi shortly after lunch. While my friends were packing, I went to Mandir, for a farewell Darshan. I sat in a corner and prayed to Swami. I was asking Him within me, as to whether I was still with Him. Am I with you, Swami? was my question. After praying for about ten minutes there, I was passing by the side of the Samaadhi to offer my Pranams. Just then, a khaki clad security staff confronted me to inform that I was wanted by his officer. I followed him and found myself inside a large room just behind the Samaadhi Mandir. Bundles of currency notes had been stacked in all possible places; on various tables, Almirahs, book shelves etc. I was taken aback. I was wondering, why I had been brought there. A gentleman who introduced himself as the secretary of the Shirdi Samasthan, told me that they had opened up various Hundies that day and had collected all the money offerings made by devotees. They were supposed to take into account all the collections in the presence of devotee citizen. They requested me to sign the cash registers as a witness. They explained to me, the register entries of various currency denominations in a statement form in the cashbook. I willingly signed at the appropriate place. I was also requested to write down my residential address and telephone number below the signature, which was complied with, by me. The Secretary, there upon stood up, read out my name, and address to the other members of the Trust, and they also noted down my details in their registers. I was all the time, thanking Swami for the immediate response He gave, to my query whether I was with Him. Swami by Divine Will had my name and address entered in the Samasthan (Trust) registers, thereby implying that I was very much with Him. He confirmed that I am still close devotee, whatever be my relationship with the organization. I left Shirdi with this assurance and the miraculous divine experience.

Very soon after my Shirdi pilgrimage, I received a telephone call from my son, Ramesh (my second son) who was studying in Swamis college at Prashanthi Nilayam. He told me that he was blessed by Swami with an interview. Swami in His infinite mercy and love called Ramesh nearer to Him and had allowed him to take Paadha Namaskar. Swami then materialized a ring studded with 3 diamonds, and slipped the same into his right hand finger. He also explained to me in detail of his wonderful experiences in the interview room.

I could not resist my eagerness to visit Prashanthi Nilayam, and see the Divine gift for myself. Very soon, I proceeded on yet another pilgrimage to Swami. I had to go alone, since my wife was away from Madras, where I am settled for the last two decades. I reached Parthi on 29-9-1995 evening after Darshan was over. Swami was giving interviews to a group of selected devotees. The next day i.e. on the

30th was a memorable day. Swami directed me to go the interview room. I had no words to express my feelings at that moment. Though I had got several chances of group interviews, Swami had provided a golden opportunity of personal interview for the first time.

There were in all about 18 persons selected for the interview that day. A group of devotees from Croatia and members of a rich business family, who had settled in overseas country, were also blessed by Swami by selecting them for interview that day. Swami ushered all of us into the interview room. Immediately Swami enquired me whether I had seen the ring He had given to my son Ramesh. I replied, Yes, Swami. Swami called the boy nearer to Him and asked him to remove the ring from the finger, and give it back to Him. Bhagavan showed the ring to all those present inside the room and asked how many diamonds were there in the ring. Everybody replied that there were 3 diamonds. Swami then held the ring nearer His mouth and blew it. When Swami showed it to us again, all the 3 small diamonds had vanished and a large single diamond was found in the ring. He told my son that the 3 diamonds had merged in one. Likewise, Swami, you and your father are all of only entity; and should not be differentiated. All of us are embodiment of a single atmic principle.

Swami then invited the devotees group-wise into the inner room for personal interview. Our turn came up last. My son and myself were alone with Swami. Swami asked me what was my problem in Madras. I did not give any reply but kept my head on His lap. Swami patted me and told my son that I had been visiting Him for the last 30 years or more. He also revealed that I had come to Him with lot of mental tension and worries. He did not want me to be sad, having done lot of Sai Seva. That is why He had bestowed me this unique chance of sitting under His feet and have an interview.

Swami told us about the rich family and said that though they were very rich, there were problems aplenty for them too. The entire family was very unhappy due to the loss of their only son. The girl, though alive, was now spastic and living like vegetable in a wheel chair with no faculty functioning. She is unaware of her own existence. I prayed that since they had come and surrendered to Swami, wont Swami be kind enough to do something for them. Swami in His infinite mercy made it clear to us, that people doing wrong to others, would have to face the cause and effect of their action and there would no way of escaping from karma. He further said that, however, God can and would interfere and make things easier, provided we repented for our misdeeds and commit ourselves to make sacrifices which would benefit the poor and needy persons. The rich people who can afford, can help the needy, by providing charitable hospitals for providing free treatment, schools for providing free education and so on. But God would not directly suggest these remedies. It would be for those who afflicted by the karmic backlash, to think back, and realize by themselves. This is the self realization that I would expect from them. They should sincerely repent and take corrective actions by such deeds of charities which alone would please Him, and which would move HIM to help them out from the severity of the Karmic effects.

As Swami was explaining the karmic theory, I could almost feel the agony of our Lord, when He stated that He is unable to help out a devotee whom He loves so much, in doing away with the karmic results. Swami further said that even if we take small step, say by way of some charities, it will be like making a small opening on a closed door, and then Swami Himself will push open the door fully, and come to the rescue of the devotee. But, if we do not make any effort to make even such a small opening, what else can He do only other than giving solace and consolation.

During the hour-long interview, Swami gave us lot of advice to me and to my son and discussed various family matters.

You are wearing a clean white pant, and to keep it unsoiled, you spread a towel or some sheets on the floor for sitting in Darshan lines. Dont you feel that God deserves a better place to sit, asked Swami. He further said that the seat for the Lord is in our hearts and it is essential to keep it pure and unsullied, so that He can reside therein. We call God as HRUDAYA NIVASI (INDWELLER OF HEARTS), i.e. He who resides in the heart. Heart is combination of two words in Sanskrit. HRUD+DAYA It means

The source from where pure Daya or compassion emanate One who has no compassion, is often called, a man without a heart. And in such a place, how do you expect Swami to reside?

Swami asked us, Whom do you love most? All the relatives in the world are bound to depart from this world one day or other and the love towards them is also a passing phase. Before we marry, there is no wife and until we beget child or children, there is no father or mother. All the relationships got evolved one day or pother during this lifetime and your love with such persons are also developed through attachment and selfish desires. This love is not permanent. However, one should remember that God is with you through and through, your past births as well as in this birth and the forthcoming births too. Therefore, if you love God without any condition, it will be pure and selfless love. We should develop constant faith and love towards God who alone is eternal.

Swami was giving us lots of such advices and in the end He directed me to come again with my wife on 4-11-1995 when I was to step into my sixtieth year of existence by His Grace. It was another blissful even when further grace of Sai was showered on us with yet another interview on that auspicious occasion. Om Sai Ram.


Chapter 3

He calls us again

The month of November is always a memorable one in Sai Calendar. November 1995, was however, uniquely memorable for me at Prashanthi Nilayam. And it would ever remain green in my heart. Yes, it would remain a life time experience for me resulting from flood of Grace showered on me by Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba.

Swami was very much busy with the ongoing water supply project. The Sathya Sai water supply p[project, catering to the entire Anantapur District was in progress. Swami had willed that the project should be inaugurated during Bhagavans seventieth Birthday celebrations. A world conference of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organizations was also planned for around 10 days, during the Divine birthday celebrations, including the Sathya Sai University convocation. Very high dignitaries including the President of India, the Prime Minster and scores of central and state ministers were listed to participate.

The November functions started with a 24-hour Akhanda Bhajan on the 4th. Swami had commanded me, during the earlier interview that I should come to Him with my wife on that day. On this auspicious day, I would have completed 59 years of existence and then stepping into the 60th year. I had submitted, Swami, will you not be very busy during these hectic November days. Swami replied with a benign smile that Swami has always got time for His devotees.

Well before the rise of the sun for the day, 4th November 1995, I took up my seat in the Darshan line with AKSHTHA (rice colored with turmeric powder). Sai Kulwant was filled to capacity and devotees were overflowing into the outer spaces as well. Everybodys look is tuned towards Swami, hoping for His blessings or His ABHAYA HASTHA, or His KRIPA KADAKSHAM , even from a long distance. That would, indeed be a fulfillment of Darshan, even if it is from a long distance. They return home after a few days of stay at Prashanthi Nilayam. As for me, I was praying and hoping that I would be blessed with Paada Namaskar, and if lucky Swamis benediction by way of sprinkling of the Akshatha on my head. It was too much to expect anything more than such a grace from our Lord under the circumstance. In such a magnitude of crowd of devotees, what else could I aspire!

The melodious light music over the system signaled the sweet appearance of Swami from the Poornachandra Auditorium. As Swami entered the Mantap, all our attention was focused on and traveled along with Swami and we became even oblivious of the music. Swami was moving along the ladies side. The Mantap was enveloped in pin drop silence. We were feasting our eyes, on His divine, movement, accepting letters from some, allowing Paada Namaskar for some who gained access to His Paada (Divine Feet), and blessing all others with Abhaya Hastha. Swami looked like floating through the middle of the crowd.

As He was passing along, at a short distance from me, I was trying to catch a glimpse of Swamis Divine Lotus Feet. But alas, the long free flowing robe, came in between His Lotus Feet and my vision. With intense prayers, I continued to wait for a glimpse. There they were!. Swamis Lotus Feet came to my vision, as Swami took a couple brisk steps. And in no time, Swami was standing in front of me with Divine smile. I lost all consciousness and I was simply staring at Swami with tears in my eyes. Swami spoke; He asked me who else had come with me. I spurred to my senses and suddenly held out before Him the cup containing Akshatha and took Namaskar at His Lotus Feet. Swami sprinkled the Akshatha on me. When I got up, Swami again asked, who else had come? I replied, Swami, only my wife Swami commanded me to go inside.

This signal from Swami, directing us to go inside, signifies His Grace earned by us through our previous good deeds and karmas. This He himself confirmed later during the interview. A coveted interview with Bhagavan is a lifetime desire of every Sai devotees, and I am no less exception to this longing. I moved on to the verandah of the Mandir and took up my place. I could see my wife from the ladies side, also moving towards Mandir. My second son, S. Ramesh who was a student in Swamis college doing his B.Sc. final year, joined us in the veranda. Swami was still among the devotees, blessing them with His Darshan

Quotes from Sathya Sai Speaks:

The center of every home must be the shrine room; the fragrance of flower and incense emanating from there must pervade the home and purify it. The mother must set an example in making the shrine, the heart of the household. She must persuade the children by example and percept to revere elders and to spend some time both in the morning and evening for prayers, and for silent meditation. The shrine room has to be kept clean and consecrated. Special festival days marked out in each religion, should be observed, so that the significance will impress the young minds in the home.

Baba


Chapter 4

The Spiritual Wedding

The wait in the verandah seemed to be very very long for me. Swami belongs to every body and He gives His time to everybody. In our concern with self, we become impatient of Swamis concern and time for others. I sat through, praying mentally and reverently. Swami entered the verandah, walked through the devotees and students, and reached us. With His benign smile, He spoke a few kind words to on or the other who has assembled there, on His call for interview.

This time, Swami had selected a group of Australian devotees and a Lady devotee from Thailand whom Swami introduced to us as the Maharani (Queen) of Thailand. When Swami directed us to go inside the Interview room, we could see the Lady walking very reverently, her face almost touching her knees. Swami pointed out this to us and remarked what a devotion this Lady had got towards Swami. Swamis remark touched us deeply. Blessed indeed are such souls and it is also Swamis way of making us learn to intensify our own devotion.

After ushering in all of us into the interview room, Swami closed the door, bolted them from inside, and looked at us to see whether everybody was seated comfortably. Swami the switched on the fan and occupied His seat. Even though the room was over crowded Swami insisted on ladies and gents sitting apart. One gentleman from Australia, when asked to mover further away from the nearest lady, mentioned that she was his wife. Swami sharply said that such wife and daughter relationships would be true in their individual homes. But in the Ashram the rules are very strict and should be followed as such.

Swami then materialized Vibhuthi and distributed the same only to the ladies. I was sitting at His Lotus Feet and my wife was sitting at the far end of the end room near exit door. Swami called her to come and sit near to Him. Bhagavan then announced abruptly to all assembled devotees that this couple (meaning us) would be wedded again in His presence on the eventful occasion of my sixtieth year birthday. This announcement took me by surprise. At the same time, the Divine Mercy overwhelmed me. I could feel the warmth of His love overflowing on us. I could utter nothing.

During the course of general talks on various spiritual matters, my wife prayed to Swami for a clarification. She told Him that Bhagavan had blessed her through many Divine dreams during which Swami had told her that he would always be with her. Though she believed in Swamis assurances in the dream, she had never had such experience of His presence. Swami smiled at her and said that he would explain this matter to her shortly.

Swami then turned to an Australian devotee and enquired where from he had come. He replied that they were from Australia. Swami asked him the reason for his visit to Prashanthi Nilayam. Pat came the reply, Swami, we have to come here to see God! Swami, Oh! Is that so? Then you do not have God in Australia? The devotee could not say anything and felt cornered. Some how another devotee took up courage and expressed that Swami, there is God in our country also, but we have intense desire to see God in Human form, who is none other than Baba Himself.

Baba was much pleased with this reply. Swami advised that we should love God without any conditions or reservations in mind, because God is one who is our ever lasting friend, relation, and everything to you during all our births. This intense love towards God should be continuous and constant feeling and we would then develop a feeling to be with Swami as much as possible. In far away places, when devotees think of Swami, they should pray to Him or sing of His glory, whenever they feel lonely. They

could also reach out for sathsang, company of other Sai devotees, which would to some extent satisfy their longing to see Swami.

Swami continued:-

There are some devotees who reply that Swami is always in their heart and they need not go to Him very often. This shows their lack of enthusiasm. What does this reply indicate? Here is kerchief, and I am holding this inside my Hands. This means my hands are bigger than the kerchief and it can hold on the same inside the hand. Likewise, when somebody claims that Swami is in his heart, then it means that he is much bigger the Swami. This is not correct. Sure, Swami is in your heart. But he is also in front of you, behind you, around you and all over the place. He is omnipresent.

There could be some compelling reasons for the inability of the devotee to come to Me. One reason could be lack of enthusiasm. Then it could also be due to the pressure pf your work from which you could not escape and come to Swami. Then there could also be another reason, that is, lack of resources. But, if only, you have the enthusiasm and intense desire to be with Swami, then the other two obstacles could be overcome by His Grace!

Swami suddenly reverted to the topic of our 60th birthday. He told us, When you enter the 60th year of your existence, you are entering into a new phase of your life. By the previous wedding during your youthful days, you were allowed to enter Grihasthasrama, the family life. But when you put your knots today on this 60th birthday, you are coming out of all the pleasures of your family life and you should from no onwards proceed into the spiritual life. The wife and husband could only be supporting each other in their spiritual journey form now on wards. Thus, if you live for another decade, at the age of 70, you will be like Saptha Rishies who leads only holy life. You should soon be at the 80th birthday. What does it mean? By living like Saptha Rishies for over 10 years, you become as powerful as ASHTA DIK PALAKAS. They are the protectors of the eight sides of the world. You become one among them. Soon you will be arriving at the 90th year ,and you will be like the NAVBAGRAHAS. (The nine planets in the universe). By then there will not be any effect on you, buy the transitory movements of the nine planets; what is more, your very presence will protect others also from such effects. When you enter the 100th year, you would have lived a full divine life, you are free from all your previous karmas, and you will be liberated.

Swami instantly waved His Divine Hands, and materialized a beautiful black pearl necklace, which was to be the Mangala Soothra (Thirumaangalyam) for our wedding. He showed it to me and enquired whether this Mangala Soothra was as per our traditions. I replied in negative, since the one, which we tie, is Mangala Soothra fitted in a yellow-colored thick twine, or a gold chain. Swami said that he had made it since my wife had wanted it this way. I did not know her secret desire and hence told Swami that anything Swami gives would be a blessing and that Swami knows what is good for us. Swami showed the wonderful black pearl necklace to everybody. Finally Baba told my wife to look at the small gold pendant hanging in the chain and also a wonderful Ruby stone placed at the center of the pendent. Swami told us that this is how AMBAL (Divine mother) wears Thirumangalyam. It was so cute and beautiful, and wonderful to receive such a Grace from Swami.

Swami then directed me to get up and then deposit the necklace on the neck of my wife. He showed me the special hook provided therein, and asked to hook it up properly. While I was abiding by His directions, Swami kept His Divine Hands on my wife wifes head and chanted the Mantra, Sathamanam Bhavathi, Sathaaya Purusha..! I was choked with emotion and literally in tears and somehow went through the process. When I tried to fall at His Lotus Feet, He commanded me to sit down, saying, It is not yet over!

Swami again waved His Divine Hands, materialized a very beautiful Ring with a large emerald stone, and handed over the same to wife. Swami Himself was holding my fingers and asked my wife to insert the ring. It was a perfect fit! Swami said that it would be a perfect fit into my finger. Swami further said

that He was blessing me with an Emerald ring, to give me peace, which I needed very much at that time. My wife and myself got up and offered Pranams together at His Lotus Feet. Swami sprinkled the Akshatha, on our heads and assured us that His blessings will be with us all the time. I did not feel like getting up from His Feet. Swami patted on my head and also on my back and asked us to get up.

I have no words to put in the feelings, which we experienced by this extraordinary Grace and the kindness showered by Bhagavan. The Divine Love of Bhagavan surcharged the entire interview room and the occupant devotees. But, Swami looked unaffected, in usual poise, as if nothing had happened. The captivating Divine smile lingered in our minds and could never be erased. The blissful events are enshrined deeply in our hearts.

Swami later on attended to other devotees, materializing Divine gifts to some of them and giving them spiritual advices. Swami then got up, and directed the group of Australian devotees to go into the inner room for private interview. We waited in the front room basking ourselves in the blissful recollections from Divine Baba. The emotional feelings continued and we were unable to come out of it. We felt very small in the Divine presence and nervous as well Swami opened the door of the inner room after a while and he allowed the Australian devotees to come out one by one.


Chapter 5

I was there with you After the devotees from Australia had returned to take their seats in the front room, Swami directed us to go into the inner interview room. My wife, my son, and myself were standing inside the room as Swami entered and occupied His chair. He asked us to sit down. I took my seat by the side of Swami on the right side and my wife on the left side. My son knelt down in front of Swami. We did not miss this opportunity to offer Paada Seva. Swami looked at us lovingly and kindly. He started giving lot of advice to my son.

Swami discussed various matters concerning my family and my business. Suddenly Bhagavan looked at my wife and asker her, Did you not pray to me one day, in front of my picture in your house, asking, will not Swami gave such a necklace to me also? She said, Yes Swami, but it was many years back, and I had even forgotten this. Swami continued, and told her that she had recently visited a jewelry shop and enquired about the price for a similar chair. You were short of funds and could not purchase it, is it not so? She admitted and started weeping at His Lotus Feet. Now Swami asked her, very tenderly Am I with you or not. She did not need any further proof of His being with us all the time. Pointing me to her, Swami said, At time, this man gets angry and shouts at you. But he is having problems and mainly financial problems in his business. What about you? You are also quarrelling and raising your voice. Do you know that I have to close both my ears whenever you both start quarreling in your house? You should know that Swami is always with you and you should behave as such!

Swami put us back at ease, with further conversations cutting lot of jokes and teasing my son. I finally told Swami, that I was tired both mentally and physically and would like to wind up my business and spend the rest of my life at His Lotus Feet. After experiencing the Divine Love and Grace, I did not feel like going back to the mundane world. Swami did not give me permission. He lovingly told me that one should engage himself in his work till he is physically fit ad that he would definitely call me to His presence later on. He said that I should go through all Prarabdhas (karmic duties) or otherwise its effect would follow me here too and that I will not be happy here also. Let your son complete his studies, involve him into your profession, get him married and hand over the house to him and then you can come to me.

After taking Paada Namaskarams, we got back to the outer room. Swami called out, Hey! Thailand! The queen got up, walked reverently inside as on the previous occasion. After making every body happy, Swami came to the outer room and resumed His seat. Swami got up again and asked to wait. He went into His private room and came back with further gifts. He presented a lovely wedding sari of costly silk to my wife and presented me with a set of clothes for safari suit. He went inside again, came with a Polythene bag, and held it to my wife, asking her to put the clothes inside the bag. It was really an experience that Swami looks into every minutest aspects all by Himself. We did not feel like going out. But Swami filled our hands with lots of Vibhuthi pockets and opened the door signaling that we should move out. With tears in our eyes we took leave of /Swami and joined the devotees sitting outside.

Soon it was morning Bhajan time and we joined the group singing. There were surprises for us. In the evening, the 24 hour long Akhanda Bhajan were to start at the Mandir from 6 P.M. onwards and to go on till 6 P.M. the next day. Immediately after Arathi, there was an announcement over the public address system. It was announced that there would be a devotional music programme in the evening at Poornachandra Auditorium by the famous cine play back singer, Ms. Chitra & Party. Normally there

will not be any such cultural programmes during the Akhanda Bhajan day. Anyway, Swami had willed it that way. Whatever may be the reason or it might be just a coincidence that a cultural programme was scheduled on that day; it appeared to me, that it was an added gift programme by Swami for my 60th birthday wedding.

When Swami decides to give Ananda (bliss) to somebody, He does it in a grand manner and showers His Grace abundantly, and then He will ask us what else we want. If and when such questions do come from Him, I feel, we should not ask for anything or crave for something. We should pray to Him that we want Him only. Swami had once told a devotee what one should ask Swami in time of a crisis. The advice of Swami on this question will come up in another chapter elsewhere in the book.

Swami spoke thus:

You come to Prashanthi Nilayam, as cars come to a workshop. You must go out, with a new paint, with all the damaged and loose bolts and nuts replaced, with the engine cleaned and r-reconditioned. Every part pick and span, beautiful, trouble free, in perfect trim, ready to speed on your journey that has head. Every bad habit has to be replaced by good one, no trace of vice must be allowed to persist, the heart must be drained of all egoism. This is the fruit of this pilgrimage that you must acquire

Baba


Chapter 6

Sai Shows the spiritual Path

In the first place, I wish to reproduce hereunder, the words of my dedication for this Book in the form a memoriam

Sri Shankara Mani, also popularly known as V.S. Mani is no more with us now, having attained His Lotus Feet recently. I happened to be born as his youngest brother.

He was with me all along in our journey towards the Sai Path. A very modern young man, holding very high Executive positions, gradually glided into the spiritual pursuit. Needless to say, it was Sai who took him into His merciful fold and then placed him under the care of a Powerful yogi, Dhyani Maharaj Madhusudan Dasji, who initiated both of us into Sidha Yoga (Kundalini Yoga) through Shakthi Path Deeksha. Our Guruji also helped us to instill in us deeper faith in the Divine incarnation of Bhagavan Sri Sai Baba.

Like me, my beloved brother was also the recipient of Sai Grace many times. I had identified myself with him in some of the narrations.

With Sais grace, I dedicate this effort of mine, to the memory of my brother late Shankara Mani (V.S.Mani).

V.Srinivasan

In this introductory remarks on the dedication of this book, I had referred to my eldest brother late Sri V.S.Mani. Both of us were employed for a while in a same firm in Bombay. This offered us lot of opportunities to discuss many matters, during our spare time. After the entry of Sai into our life, the name of Bhagavan Sri Sai Baba became a permanent topic. With our limited, nay, small minds we ventured to rationalize critically, the mystic miracles of Baba, as was being widely known to the world. When I recall these stupidities, I feel how grievously we had erred trying to fathom the depth of the limitless, which was nothing but an exercise in futility. Yet those were the initial days of our advent into Sai era.

Even before we came to know of Baba, a friend of my brother had given a small photograph of Bhagavan Baba and spoke much about the powers of Baba. My brother accepted it very casually. He put it inside a book, and never thought about it for many months.

Long after that he happened to visit New Delhi and stay there for about a couple of months in connection with office work. During this period he was steadily loosing the hearing faculty and had very difficult time when discussing anything with somebody. This hampered his normal activities. Through a very influential friend, he was taken to a specialist doctor, where he was put into lot of tests. The diagnosis was that he had a problem of jammed windpipe near his neck area and it was medically impossible for surgical correction. He was further advised to accept the situation and get used to the set back. Only God can help you, said the doctor.

While coming out of the Hospital area, the good friend told him, Why not pray to your new found God, Sri Sathya Sai Baba, and request Him to cure you? My brother had no other option and replied that that is exactly what he intended to do. Once in the parking area, they were opening the doors of the car and were about to get inside. At that time, a gentleman introducing himself as an assistant of the Specialist Doctor, informed that the Doctor had forgotten to tell you something and that the had to come to tell some remedial measures which my brother could try. Take as much air as possible into your lungs and hold it there. Close your both ears and nose tightly with your hands and try to flush in the air through the inner part of the system and this pressure generated inside may open up the jammed wind pipe. Please try.

Back in the hotel, while putting the books on a table, the photograph of Baba, kept inside many days back fell down on the carpeted floor. My brother picked it up and thought for a while. The doctors casual advice while taking leave and also the unexpected visit of a gentleman in the parking area, all came in a flash in his mind. Why not then sincerely pray to Sri Sai Baba and pray for His blessings thought my brother. He picked up the photo from the floor, placed it reverently on the table, and went for a quick bath. With wet clothes, he prayed to Swami and requested Him to cure him of the deafness. At this moment, he again recalled the advice given by a gentleman in the parking area, and undertook the exercise as suggested by him. During his third attempt to build up pressure inside his lungs and windpipe area, he could feel a sudden opening and was frightened by the big sounds echoing in his ears. He could hear again and that too, to such an extent that it caused pain in his eardrums. He could not even bear the sound of the fan rotating on the ceiling and the sound of the cars moving around outside. On that day, he had to plug his ears with a piece of cotton. He lived a normal life from thereon for a further period of over 30 years with clear hearing faculty.

The return of my brother from Delhi after the miraculous cure, coincided with the Divine visit of Bhagavan Baba to Bombay. With this first experience of His Grace in our family, we went to Worli for Darshan with increased faith and devotion. From this period onwards, our life style completely changed. We discarded the stylish way of life and without any pomp and show. We learned to live a simple and spiritual way of living. We got introduced to many Sai devotees and we were only happy to avoid the old company of fashionable. It was our endeavour to adopt spirituality in our day-to-day activities. We started reading many Sai literature ad took keen interest in following His teachings in right earnestness. Perhaps this single pointed devotion and our desire for spirituality moved Lord Sai to set a path for us. It seems that He willed that he should place us for further care with an enlightened personality. Things started moving in the right directions.

There were couple of known devotees with whom we happened to discuss spiritual matters. We were always having matters to be clarified, which prompted us to seek guidance from the devotees who seemed to be more spiritualized persons. These persons informed us that they are practicing yoga having been initiated by a Sidha Yogi, Dhyani Maharaj Madhusudhan Dasji. My brother started attending meditation sessions in their house, though Guruji was not physically available there. We were told that Guruji stayed in His Ashram in a remote village called Bandhwad, in Banaskantha District of Gujarat State. It is so remote that it used to take at least a week for a letter to reach there by post. He used to visit Bombay once in a while.

Dhyani Maharaj Madhusudhan Dasji was a Sidha yogi and he initiates only those who are spiritually ripe and receptive to yogic marg. The method of this yoga is awakening of Kundalini by Shakthi Path, whereby transmitting His yogic powers to the disciple. The yoga is known as Sidha Yoga or Laya Yoga.

We attended the Dyan Center and joined the group meditation. On the first day itself, we experienced the awakening of Kundalini, losing body consciousness. My brother told me that during the period of meditation he could see many saints appearing one by one and blessing him. To have such experiences on the first day itself is very remarkable and that too without Guruji in presence and before formal initiation by His Shakthi path Deeksha. He had various curious thought in his mind. Who is this Guruji,

and why these are all happening to me? Does He know me and do I deserve for such a Grace of a Yogi? Next coup[le of days we were in blissful mood and more and more eager to practice Meditation.

We also longed to have Darshan of this Guruji. The Dyan center was at the residence of Dr. Pathak in the locality of Prarthana Samaj in Bombay. On the third day when we went as usual for meditation, Dr. Pathak informed us that he had received a letter from Guruji, and that there was a message in it for us also. Guruji had mentioned that he was happy to know that we are attending meditation regularly and we are having many experiences during meditations. Let them not have much curiosity how these are all happening to us or whether they deserve it at all. They should only know that these experiences are due to the Grace of their new found Ishta Devatha.

I understood later on that Grace of Sai works even without our being aware of it. When once He accepts you and takes you into His fold, He then chooses the path best suitable for you. He Himself guides you and in case of necessity, places you under the care of an able guide. Within a very short period we could find complete change in our attitude towards our life and willingly and thankfully accepted the spiritual path as shown by Sai.

This was only the beginning of a long journey on the path. There were innumerable instances of His Grace during the next 3 decades. The following chapters will illustrate His mercy, His love, and His all-pervading Divinity that enveloped my life.


Chapter 7

Vision at Thrayambaka

There are some devotees who had experienced His Grace, much before they had come into the fold of Sai. They came to know of this, much later on being revealed by Swami Himself, or through by some other methods. One of the Ashtothara Archana mantras of Bhagavan Baba mentions as Kaalaatheethaya Namaha. It means that I worship the one who is beyond the Kala i.e. time. He is bound by time and space; He is eternal and omnipresent. Without our being even aware of it, for reasons best known to Him only, He extends His Grace to you. He is so loving and merciful and His divine loves binds you for ever with the Divinity.

I too, had such an experience, which is unforgettable. This happened even before I came to know of the Advent of Sai, the second coming. Till then, I knew Sai of Shiridi only. It was the beginning of the year 1965, when I visited Shiridi with my wife for the first time. I felt truly blessed and experienced peace after worshipping at the Samadhi.

From there we proceeded to a nearby pilgrim center, Nashik which is on the banks of river Godavari. The other side of the bank is called PANCHAVADI. Our scriptures say that Lord Sri Rama stayed here with His consort Sita and brother Lakshmana during their sojourn to the forest. Sri Rama had paid oblations to His departed father King Dasaratha at the banks of Godavari at Panchavadi.

It was from this place that Ravana had taken away mother Sita. It is a great pilgrim center. We had holy bath in Godavari river and visited various places of interest near there. We were staying at Shankara Mutt. Somebody from the Mutt informed that this Holy Godavari River is originating from a placed called Thrayambaka which was about 25 kilo meters away from Nashik, and suggested that we should visit this Holy place also. He explained that Adi Shankara Himself had installed a powerful Jyothir Linga in a temple there, and the Deity is called Lord Thrayambakeswara. It means that it embodiment of all the three amsaas of divinity viz., Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, in a single piece of Lingam. We accepted his suggestion and visited the place.

We reached Thrayambakam at the fag end of the day and the sun was about to set. It was a small village and there was not much crowd, only about a dozen or so pilgrims inside the temple. We entered the sanctum of the temple and was looking inside the place where the deity is installed. I could find the base of the lingam but no lingam was in the usual shape there. We could only see a cavity. Water was continuously oozing out of the cavity and the pundits were cleaning very often with cloth. It was amazing that no lingam was found, even though it was claimed that Adi Shankara had installed it. While I was thus standing there in utter confusion of mind, an elderly man called me from behind. He looked very pious with tuft in his head and wearing a neat white Dhothi like a pundit; but looked very serene.

He talked to us in Tamil, which is our language. Initially he enquired wherefrom we had come etc. Later on, he took interest in us and explained about the importance of the Holy place in detail. When I enquired where is the Holy Lingam, he told us that there is not one but three small lingams placed in the sides of the cavity of the base, which is not visible from outside. The three lingams represent Brahma, Vishnu, and Lord Shiva, exactly as was explained to us at Panchavadi Shankara Mutt. In those primitive old days, Adi Shankara had traveled all the way from a remote village in Kerala to this place where Holy River Godavari originates and installed this Jyothi lingam. I wondered how this was possible without any means of transport. Moreover, He has installed 8 such lingams in various parts of India within his

short span of 32 years. We heard all these from this pious man and in the end, we prostrated before him. He blessed us that by next year we should come again with a newborn child. He then moved away.

Within a few minutes, we searched for him and went up to the nearest bus stop and he could not be seen. We wished to have his contact address in Bombay so that we could meet him again when we return. But he had just vanished.

Here, I wish to mention one other factor. Since I could not get accommodation in Bombay, I had left my wife at our village in Kerala and she was forced to stay there for over three years. Ultimately by Grace of God we got a temporary accommodation and settled our family in a Bombay Suburb named Goregoan. However, for the next three years we did not have the pleasure of having a child. Due to some medical grounds the doctors had said she might not conceive again. This is the situation when we visited, Shiridi, Nashik and Thrayambakam.

Shortly after our return to Bombay my wife conceived and we got a baby boy. The boy was born at her native place in Kerala, which had earlier been described in detail. Soon after her arrival with the child, we went to our Gurui, Dhyani Maharaj Sri Madhusudhan Dasji who was in the residence of His disciple Dr. Pathak at Prarthana Samaj. He took the child in his hands and fondled him. While giving back the child, he mentioned that we had got the child due to the Grace of Sai whom we had started worshipping recently. You need not worry about the boy since Sai will Himself look after the child, protect him, guide him and help him in all his endeavour in his life. Then we knew that the pious man whom we met at the sanctum of Thrayambakam must be Sai Himself, whom we did not know during those days.

I had already enjoyed the bliss of Darshan of Bhagavan Baba for the first time, had an extraordinary experience. Yet, I asked a foolish question to our Guruji. Guruji, excuse me, but who is this Sai Baba? Is he a magician, a saint, or what else? He is reportedly showing lot f miracles and are they all genuine? Guruji admonished me and cautioned me not to utter such words. Sai is Poorna Avatar and you should worship Him for all the rest of your life. In fact, it is He who had sent you to me! I apologized for my bad thoughts and enquiry and prayed to Bhagavan Baba also, to forgive me.

From that day onwards, all these years, it is only Sai and Sai only in my life and every breath of mine also vibrates with the name of Sai. I try to be very very alert not to forget Him not even for a moment. He on His part continued to look after me, guide me and hold me close to Him ever after!


Chapter-8

You should not cry hereafter I got married quite early in age, when I was working in a Government department in the south. Due to low salary and limited scope for building up a future career, I resigned the job and mover to Bombay. All my brothers were settled there and I hoped that I would not have any problem there. But the one big problem of availability of accommodation in Bombay was completed overlooked by me,. The houses of my brothers were too small and could just accommodate me with great difficulty; there was no room for setting up a family. Nobody rents out house due to the fear that tenants would not vacate. Or they take a huge sum as one payment without receipt, which is known as pakidi. Or you should purchase your own flat, which I could not afford. As such I could not bring my wife to Bombay for the next three years.

After prolonged wait I could secure some living space on a nominal rent in a suburb called Goregoan. It was an asbestos roofed tenement built by the Government for the sake of hutment dwellers. The original allot tee, a Sikh, had died and his family had gone to their native place. I occupied the house and immediately y wife joined me. The locality was very bad and the inhabitants were slum dwellers. Somehow, my wife who is of very understanding nature adjusted to the situation and tried to bring about a happy home. We lived there for four years.

My income was very meager. It was only while we were in this house, that we got our first son (as I had narrated earlier).

My wife was at her native place in Kerala, during the days when I started hearing about the advent of Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba and had my first Darshan. I was in the happiest mood, now that I got inhaled the initial delights of the Living God and also benefited from His Grace by the birth of a boy. I felt eager to share so much with my wife on her arrival in Bombay with the child. But when she reached Bombay it became a different story. She entered the house with the child in hand and proceeded to the place where normally we kept the pictures of various gods and goddesses, to offer her Namaskarams.

She looked with curiosity at the photograph of Bhagavan Baba occupying a place with the other deities. She enquired about the identity of the man in the photo, who, to her looked like a villain in the films. She asked me to remove it from its place so that she could offer her Namaskar, to the other deities. I tried to put her wise about the various experiences of mine and that of my brother in regaining hearing capacity. I told her, of the belief in the devotees, that Bhagavan Baba is a reincarnation of God in this Kali Yuga. I also brought up before her the visionary pictures of my first Darshan of Swami, my prayers to Him and the evolving faith and devotion in me on Swami. I thought that I conv9inced her. But till she gained her chance of Darshan and experiences, it was not going to be that easy for her to accept Baba.

Since then, it continued to be days of arguments in the house, the object of controversy being Baba Himself. In the end she would start crying and even accusing Swami for all the sufferings in life. If He is really God, she would ask, Why are we placed in abject poverty? Why are we forced to live in such a dirty locality? Why not He bless us at least with a house in our own name in a better place? We had also suffered humiliation since the house we occupied was unauthorized and the inspecting authorities subjected us to considerable inconveniences. So the question from wife, though appeared simple and nave, emerging from the heart, failed to elicit any proper and adequate response from me.

I tried to get her around, by telling that it was with the Blessings of Bhagavan Baba that we got this child. He would definitely do something for us. I further advised her not to cry hereafter, but start

praying to Him with full devotion. I had developed full faith in Baba and if she also developed such a faith, it would prove very beneficial.

I hope that she would adjust to this situation. It is Swami Himself who instills faith and confidence and it is he himself who takes further steps to fulfill the faith of an innocent devotee. I prayed to Him to give peace and solace to my wife and take her into His fold. Within a short period, Swami convinced us that He had heard our prayers.

Maharashtra Government were constructing and allotting dwellings for industrial workers and poorer sections in various places. I had long time back applied for an allotment in a colony built in the neighboring suburban city, Thane. There were about 200 single room flats offered by the housing board for which over a lakh applications for allotment had poured in. With the passage of tine, I had even forgotten about it. Within a couple of months of my wifes return to Bombay with the child, I received by mail an intimation from the Housing Board that I had been allotted a house at Vartak Nagar, Thane. Yes, we got a nice little flat, of our own, in the second floor on a very meager rent, which was being subsidized by the Government. Those who got allotments as our neighbors were all excellent God loving people. My wife liked the place. She started developing faith in Swami and was eager to have His Darshan.

Swami, after fulfilling a desire of my wife with a house, happened to visit Bombay again, within a short period after the earlier visit. This time the Darshan was arranged in the compound of a bungalow in the East side of Andheri. We had to travel a long way by different modes of transport to reach the place. When we ultimately reached the place, it was too late. We were not aware of the timings of Darshan and the arrangements. We found that the compound was almost empty barring a few volunteer devotees. We came to know that Darshan was already over in the morning at about 8.00 AM., and there would not be any Darshan in the evening since Swami was to attend another programme at King Circle, near Matunga. We felt disappointed. This time, it was my wife, who asked me to repose confidence in Baba! Swami would definitely know that we had come and we were sure to get His Darshan! Her newfound faith was not misplaced. We were sitting under a tree in the compound. Swami suddenly made His appearance in the doorstep. Before I could thing anything, my wife jumped, and a trice, was near Swami. She kept the child on His Lotus Feet, and caught hold of the charan (Lotus Feet). Placing her head on His Divine Feet, she was crying profusely. I joined her and offered Namaskar to Swami. Baba, in His infinite love and mercy, allowed her to weep for a while and then gently called out to her. When she looked up, Swami glanced at her loving and told her in Tamil, You should not cry hereafter (Note: Readers may remember that these were the exact words which I had uttered earlier to my wife). With our attention on the wonderful charming face of Bhagavan, He smiled at us again, blessed us and moved inside the house.

We continued to stand there in a dazed condition, until the volunteers rushed to push us out. According to them, we should not have come after Darshan was over and caused inconvenience to Swami. Lest our newfound Bliss might be spoiled, we moved out of the compound with the child. This child is His gift and we felt happy to place him on is Lotus Feet. Now it is up to Him to take care of the child for the rest of his life. We felt confident then and there, that he would not let us down.

And we got proof of this. Very shortly, before the child was one year old, he had an attack of diphtheria. Till late on that fateful night, we were not aware of the seriousness of the disease. This new colony, had been developed in a far new location from the city, and was a good 6 kilometers away from Thane and there was no hospital or clinic in our vicinity. It was raining very heavily. The child was running high fever and he was unable to take any milk. He was not even able to swallow his saliva and it was continuously coming out of his mouth. We got panicky. There was a family from the south living in the colony and we took the child to their house not knowing what to do. We could only pray. It was late in the night and still raining. We had no money whatsoever with us. My wife was inside their house and I was standing in the verandah though getting wet in the rain.

When we really feel that we are helpless, the helping hand of Swami reaches out. I could not believe my own eyes. I found a scooter coming in front of the house and a man covered with a raincoat stepped down. He was a doctor from Thane City civil hospital. Indeed he was God sent, at the crucial time! I rushed to him and explained the situation saying that my child was unwell and it seemed that something was seriously wrong with him. The doctor immediately attended on my child, diagnosed it to be a case of diphtheria, and advised immediate hospitalization. It was a very serious case, needing constant medical attention. I explained to the doctor of my helpless situation without any money with me not even for hiring a vehicle at this hour, leave alone medical expenses. He looked at me straight on my face for a while. In fact we were totally strangers. He advised me not to worry any more. He administered some medicines, for temporary relief and said he would come back immediately as he had to go to the city to get the necessary medicines. He spent his own money for purchasing the injections and other medicines. He said he would stay the whole night with us since medicines had to be administered periodically and the progress of the child had to monitored.

With loving care of the kind doctor, the child crossed the danger mark before dawn. The doctor took leave, promising to visit us again during the morning hours. He visited twice again the next day. Our faith in Swami helped us in our helpless situation. We could only surrender and pray to Him. He had heard our prayers and sent a Doctor to us at the time of crisis, a doctor with a heart to spare his own money and time and who stayed throughout the night. This is the story of the child begotten by His Grace and protected by His mercy.

Our pilgrimage in the Divine Path had just begun. Years and years of sweet experiences of His Divine Love, were to follow and flow into our life!


Chapter 9

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF SEVA Thana which had since been named Thane is suburban city some 30 kilometers away form Bombay. As I had already mentioned, this is the same suburb, in which, thanks to the Grace of Sai, I came to secure a residential accommodation.

On the eastern side of the Railway line, a holy spiritual center has come up by the name Ananda ASHRAM. Ms. Tara Devi, now reverently called Mataji is the head of this Ashram. Earlier she was living in the same colony where we had our accommodation, i.e. at Vatak Nagar on the western side. We just knew her as Ms.Tara. She was living with her parents and brothers who were my very close friends. She was quite young and was in the marriageable age. However, her life style got totally transformed after her first visit to Prashanthi Nilayam. She developed extreme devotion and love towards Swami and lost all interest in the mundane world affairs. All the time Sai filled her mind and spirit. Gradually, around her, a small sathsang began to emerge and she came to be known as Mataji in the area. She organized a Sai Bhajan Group and encouraged those who came to her to participate in Nama Sankirtan.

Wit gathering and increasing visitors, she did not wish to disturb her family members, because of her sathsang activities. The inevitable happened. She left her home behind and totally dedicated herself to the devotees. Some Good Samaritan from Thane East provided her a small Ashram place, for accommodating her and facilitating the spiritual activities. This Ashram has become very popular. Sai Bhajans are conducted twice a day and various spiritual activities are also going on. The Ashram is also running a secondary school providing fee education.

In the early years due to close proximity to Mataji, ample opportunities were available for us to engage in personal discussions with her on various spiritual matters, especially on the philosophy of Sai. My wife and myself had innumerable divine experiences with her.

As for 0ur own development of devotion to Swami, we had accepted Him as another deity and started worshipping Him reverently along with the other Gods. We were no doubt aware that a mere worship is a ritualistic fashion would not suffice and would not yield results. Mataji Tara Devi advised us that we should try to understand and adopt the teachings of Swami in the conduct of our life. The very day-to-day activities should conform to His spiritual teachings, and the worship should be a way of life itself. In short worship should consist of continuous process of living as per His teachings rather than ritualistic fixed time sitting before the deity in the Pooja Room. We cannot expect to gain the Grace of Swami simply by the usual Pooja rituals, like the ones, which we offer to the other Gods, Shri Rama, Shri Krishna, and others. We were reminded of Swami teachings, The Hands that serve the needy is much holier than the lips that offer prayers daily We also tried to understand the principle of universality of divinity which dwells in all the creation and this divinity is nothing but the Atma, in each one of us. If we can appreciate this principle, then we would come to experience that divinity as enshrined in all even 9n the poor and needy and who are less fortunate than us. The supreme offer to God is the sparing and sharing of the time and resources for and with these less fortunate brethren, sisters, sons, and daughters. Had not swami propounded Maanava seva is Madhava Seva.

We were made wise by Matajis teachings of Swami during those days when we used to get much time for personal discussions. I started to attend the programmes of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organizations in our city. The organization offered excellent opportunities for the devotees to get together and engage in Seva activities as a group so that the time and the resources could be put to the best use. Our main aim had

been to spread the message of Sai to the weaker sections of the society and try to instill in them a spiritually oriented thinking and living styles. Without a spiritual base no Seva can result in bliss, says Swami. Bhagavan is also very keen that the beneficiaries should also be exposed and enthused to adopt spiritual practices, which is the ultimate aim of Seva. We enjoyed ourselves in the Seva activities and in the company of newfound sathsang of Sai devotees.

An important soul-awakening programme, related to the Seva to the jail inmates. The authorities of the Thane Central jail gave us permission to conduct Sai Bhajans inside the jail once a month. The convicts in the jail serving their terms were persuaded to attend the Bhajan sessions. Within a short period, many of them started enjoying the Bhajans. Later, They began to take so much interest that they started keeping Babas picture, providing garlands and making all other necessary arrangements. In course of time, some of them even learnt a few songs and took initiative to lead the Bhajans. A tremendous change of heart had come about in the jail inmates. Many of them developed devotion towards Swami. Some of them quietly asked us, whether it would be possible for them to have Babas Darshan. We could only respond telling them that they should pray to Him and He would definitely make it possible.

Those were the years when Swami used to visit Dharmakshethra in Bombay, almost very year. During one of His visits, Swami had planned a programme to a distant suburb in Bombay, which was beyond Thane. We put forward the request of the Jail inmates to the leaders of Sai Seva Organizations in Bombay and about their eagerness to have Swamis Darshan. In fact, we were jot very much aware of the serious implications of our proposals. Anyway it was decided to submit the request to Swami on His arrival in Bombay.

Yes, Lord Shri Krishna was born I a Kaaragraha, a jail. But here, we, the devotees, had the audacity to think about inviting our dear Swami into the jail. We only thought that Swami, ever loving and willing to encourage us in our Seva activities, would accede to our prayers. Nothing could be truer than this.

Baba while giving Darshan to the devotees in a programme far beyond Thane, gave an indication of His merciful decision to visit the jail and meet the inmates who had become His devotees. We had very little time at 0ur disposal. Lacking any instant telephone connectivity across suburban areas, we had to move physically to the area and make all the arrangements for the Divine visit. Invoking His Grace, the small organization in Thane swung into action and tried to do what best could be done within the shortest possible time. We had to formally obtain permission from the Jail authorities and then install necessary public address system and a stage. It was also needed to dress up the inmates and take them to the Darshan in an orderly manner. We received excellent support and encouragement from all the people within the jail premises. When the last lines of the inmates were taking their seats, Swami entered the jail.

Oh, my dear, it was a sight to see! Our beloved Lord walked along the rows o the neatly dressed inmates, in their uniforms, blessing them and what not! The faces of the jail inmates were lit up with devotion. After spending considerable time with them, and giving them the fulfillment of a lifetime chance of a coveted Darshan, Swami was back on His vehicle, to get back to Dharmakshethra. And what jubilation for the Sai sevaks!

This mercy visit of Swami inspired us to get motivated for more and more service activities with devotion and humility. If you take the first step towards Me, I will take ten steps towards you, says Swami very often. We took a small, but a first step by initiating Bhajan activity in the jail and He came there in His physical form! What a Divine mercy and Divine Love~! One has to experience this Bliss personally to be able to understand even a fraction of divinity!

Swami spoke thus:

The japamala is very useful for beginners in Sadhana. But as you progress, japa must become the very breath of your life, and so the rotation of beads becomes superfluous and cumbersome exercise. Sarvada Sarva kaleshu, Sarvatra Hari Keerthanam. Always, at all times, in all places, Hari (the Lord), is meditated upon. That is he stage to which the japamala should lead you.

Baba


Chapter 10

The Vision of Aura Love is God is ever the repeated maxim of Swami. The God incarnate Bhagavan Baba is Himself embodiment of: Love. If only we spend a few minutes in His Divine presence wit intense love and prayers, in our hearts, we can easily and positively experience the strong divine love flowing from Him. Swamis love envelopes everybody, even in an assembly of over lakhs of devotees, who throng for His Darshan. One has only to experience this bliss all by himself to understand what Divine Love is.

The Divine Love pulls multiplying millions of devotees to his very presence. In Dwapara Yuga, it was the melody of Lord Krishnas flute which made the devotees of Brindavan to gravitate towards His presence. The Gopies lost any consciousness of their body, mind and spirit, dropped their work and other activities. They were absorbed by the melody. How lucky we are to witness today the reenactment of the same phenomenon by Sai Krishna at Parthi. The devotees run to catch a glimpse of Swami even at a murmur of the news that Swamis car is approaching. They feel elated and truly blessed by the chance Darshan even of a fleeting second as the car passes through.

One Swami graced me with a rare chance of following His car from Puttaparthi to Whitefield. Swamis tour programme is always unpredictable and un-announced. Nobody can dare to set the exact timings of such tour programme. On that blissful day, even though some close persons accompanying Swami received information of the time of His departure, Swami left Parthi about one and half earlier. I was fortunate to be provided with the experience of following Swamis car. I had been directed to take our place as the fourth car in the caravan. However, since the other cars did not show up along with Swamis car, I made a quick decision and followed Swamis car as the second one, for quite a long distance till other cars showed up. I could not really believe the emotionally surcharged send off given by the devotees, even at such short notice. From the Gopuram gate onwards up to and far beyond the gate of Super Specialty Hospital, devotees had lined up in good strength on both sides of the road. Even the devoted Sai Geetha turned up with her majestic presence to greet Swami as the car passed by the side of the gates of her shed. Hundreds of devotees were showering flower petal on the car. I saw many of them breaking coconuts on the street, in front of the car. Indeed it looked like a real car festival in our villages when people offer special poojas in front of the Divine Car, as it passes through the village streets. Swamis car was bedecked with the petals offered by devotees.

But the measure of attraction, which the Divinity drew all along the villages and the agricultural fields had to be seen to be believed. The villagers were out n the streets in time for the Divine Darshan. Many agricultural laborers were seen running towards the approaching caravan of Swamis car and others on the road. How did all these villagers and agricultural workers come to know and that too the time of Swamis moving presence in their area! It could only be divinity-induced situation, which foretold the people in the villages the possibility of the Divine Darshan!

I did nt end there. The approach road towards Whitefield from the highways was also line up with devotees. As the Car neared the gate of Thrayee Brindavan, I could see the crowd getting very thick and the whole compound was filled with devotes.

Swami had declared several times, that unless He wills it, one couldnt gain access to His Divine presences. It may seem that Divine Darshan is obtained very easily whenever we go to His abode, since Swami walks amongst us, blessing everybody. But we should also know that we couldnt take Swamis Darshan for granted. Quite often Swami may test or even tease us and Darshan may become rare at

times. We, the devotees, who happen to visit Him very often, may sometimes feel the pinch of Swamis testing time. I was also subjected to such a test by agonizing experience, but only to have a blissful reward in the end!

This was the time when I was employed Bombay. I used to visit Bangalore very often on official engagements and most of the time Swami would be camping at Whitefield. I was feeling very very happy. During a particular year, I traveled to Bangalore 4 times during different months. Once we were told that there was no possibility of Darshan since Swami was unwell??!!. Some said that there was some injury in Swamis Lotus feet. After staying for three days I had to return to Bombay without even a single Darshan. During my other visits in that year, His Darshan eluded me for one reason or other. Either Swami was on some tour or away on some other engagements and what not. The whole year passed of blank. I felt very much depressed. UI could only pray and pray. I gained some hope by an announcement about the proposed Divine visit to Bombay. That brought cheers to me. I was looking forward for May the 12th, when Swami normally comes to Dharmakshethra.

I was not the only one; the whole of Bombay was eagerly expecting the arrival Swami. And Swami did not disappoint anybody. Mercifully He did come as programmed and stayed on for 4 days. But alas! Swami continued to keep me on test. I could not make it to His Darshan during all those days. It would seem funny, but it was the truth. My place of work, i.e. my office was situated very near to Dharmakshethra, some three kilometers away, on the other side of the hill. Sitting in my office chair, through the window, I could even have from that long distance a glimpse of the Divine abode. As ill luck would have it, I had a couple of outstation visitors to my office as our possible prospective clients, with whom we had to finalize some deals. Each day.

On each day of the Divine visit, I was late, and by the time I reached Dharmakshethra, the devotees would have left the place after Darshan and my wife would be waiting for me alone over there. What a fate, I used to curse myself. The Divine visit was reaching the end. And it was time or Swami to leave Bombay and the only possible chance was the early morning Darshan on the last day immediately after Nagar Sankirtan. Swami was scheduled to leave after this Darshan and I could not afford to miss this opportunity.

In those days adequate conveyance facilities were lacking and we had to depend on public transport systems. Reaching the railway station in Thane situated six miles from the place of our residence, changing 2 local trains and then catching a bus service, to join the group of devotees on their way to Dharmakshethra singing Bhajan songs Nagar Sankirtan. We reached at the dawn and took positions at the lower side of the small hill. In the twilight, the lotus shaped Dharmakshethra looked very beautiful. Slowly Swami emerged from His abode and moved to the brim of hilltop. There was s Sthoopi, the pillar as if the 5 petals on the top, are about to blossom. Underneath it, Swami took His place. Swami was accepting Arathi, looking down at the devotees.

Literally I was weeping when my eyes could sight the Divine figure after many attempts. Tears wee rolling down my cheeks. I dared not to wipe it with my hands since I was holding both my palms in reverence. At this very moment something unbelievable was happening. A mild glow became visible to me around the crowning hair of Swamis head. I immediately felt that it should be the Divine AURA about which I had heard several times. Still my mind was not firm on the genuiness of that vision. Just behind Swami, a glow of rising sun was appearing and I thought that it could the bright twilight reflected on His hair. I also thought that my moist eyes could have created an illusion.

When my thoughts thus turned critical to a state of negating the very divine experience, the Aura was found all over the body of Swami. And when Swami kept both His hands on the grill provided on the edge from where He was standing, the iron bars also started glowing by the mere touch of Swami. Now I had no hesitation whatsoever to accept the Grace of Swami by this rare vision. The Arathi was over and when Swami was moving back into Dharmakshethra, the Aura was also following Him to make it doubly sure about the vision of His Grace!

Thus I had to wait for His Darshan despite my repeated visits and attempts, ultimately when Swami did make it possible for me to have His Darshan, He did it in a grand style bestowing His Grace on the final chance I got. I could never forget this Divine experience of a vision of the mild aura in the colour of Jasmine flower like white purity!.

Swami blessed me again with a repeat vision after many years, but at Sundaram Mandir in Madras. This time also it was during the Darshan after Nagar Sankirtan. Swami was accepting the Arathi from the Lotus shaped balcony at Sundaram Mandir when the Aura appeared for full five minutes till He withdrew into His room.

That day, I realized at Sundaram in Madras that Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba had accepted me unto His fold and provided divine protection. I prayed to Him with all my sincerity and devotion that he should bless me again and again to spend the rest of my allotted days in the earth, at His Lotus Feet, serving Him worshipping Him and offering my everything unto Him!


Chapter 11

Can we escape from fate?

Other than the two Ashrams familiarly known as Prashanthi Nilayam at Puttaparthi and Brindavan at Whitefield, Bangalore, the three magnificent Sai centers, namely Sathyam in Bombay, Sivam at Hyderabad, and Sundaram in Madras would also compel a mention.

Sathya Deep at Dharmakshethra in Bombay stands out as a gem of architectural beauty. It stands atop small hill like a fully blossomed Lotus in a Pond. Swami on the 12th May1966 inaugurated Dharmakshethra. The first World Conference of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organizations was also held during this period, the venue being the vast grounds of Bharathiya Vidya Bhavan in Andheri East. I had the good fortune to be present and participate in these programme. Swami was present for full five days conferring a blissful time for all of us. During the days of the conference, it became increasingly evident and clear to me that Swami belonged to all the community spread all over the world. Bombayities had just then been coming to know of Swami and it was amazing to learn of so many millions of devotees that Swami had, from all parts of the world and of the thousands of Sai centers already functioning.

We became aware of the concept of and the opportunities for integrated service activities. I felt very happy indeed over the ample chances available for Seva, which Swami likes very much.

I got thrilled when Swami, in one of

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