www.saileelas.org

1

www.saileelas.org

2

A QUOTE FOR THE MONTH RAMA IS MY GUEST TODAY

This day is dear to me above all other days,

For today the beloved Rum is a guest in my house.

My chamber and my courtyard are beautiful with His presence.

My tongings sing Rama's mime,

And they are become lost in His great beauty.

I wish Rama's Feet and took upon His face.

I lay before Him as an offering,

My body, my mind and all that I have.

What a day of gladness is this day,

On which my beloved Ram, Who is my treasure, comes to my house!

All evils fly from my heart, when I see my Rum.

My love has touched Him.

My heart is longing for the name Ram, which is Truth

Thus sings Kabir, the servant of all servants.

- Kabirdas

- Shri Ramanavami, 3-4-1990

www.saileelas.org

3

RAM-BHAKTA HANUMAN

Hanuman is a God-head representing service, dedication, toyalty and power. The allegiance

and servitude of Hanuman has no equal. He is surrendered to the work of Rama. He is toyal

and dedicated to Rama. He is merged in Rama, he is therefore immortal. A gigantic,

stupendous and colossal Rudra power is symbolised by Hanuman. The Shaktti is ordained to

protect piety, morality, celibacy and righteousness in the world. Hanuman is dynamically

working power of" Atmarama.

The Rudra's power is indispensable for those, who work in polities, social life, village life and

for individual existence as well. It is for this, that Saint Ramdas has establish Maruti in every

village. Those, who nurtured nationalism, and worship of physical strength have treated

Hanuman as their family Deity. Sai Baba had profound respect for Hanuman. He used to

point out to the Hanuman near Shani par and say, "These are My parents". He used to sit two

steps betow the Hanuman's feet. It is said that the family Deity of Baba's household at Pathri

was Hanuman. Baba was Shaktti Himself. He was Rudra manifested to serve Humanity, the

Rama in the form of society.

Hanuman Jayanthi,

10-4-1990

INSTRUCTIONS TO WRITERS/POETS OF SHRI SAI LEELA

The writers and poets are requested to send their articles or poems for the monthly "Shri Sai

Leela" keeping in view following requirements :-

www.saileelas.org

4

General:- The articles or poems should be of adequate quality and standard covering

reflective spiritual subjects, experiences of convincing and edifying nature, analysis of Baba's

deeds, sayings and teachings and topics of religious, spiritual interest for devotees in general.

Life and Teachings of Saints :- 1. The life and messages of past masters and Saints which

have distinct parallelism with teachings of Baba would be given due preference in selection.

2. The analysis of Baba's life, leelas, miracles, preaching’s and their far-reaching meaning

and message to humanity will find topmost priority in the issues.

Experiences of Devotees :- The experiences of convincing nature and edifying value will be

given priority. The experiences may be of the following types:- 1. Experiences of devotees

following Baba's teachings. Writer should write freely and express themselves on this topic.

2. Experiences of" grace in wordly difficulties. This should be convincing and edifying to

other devotees. 3. Experiences of grace to aspirants.

Poetry :- Poems sent to the magazine should conform to quality and taste and should be

mainly centred round Baba's life, deeds, grace and individual expression of sentiments of

devotion towards Baba and other God-heads.

Translation, Reproductions :- Translations of literature on Baba in other languages (stating

source or authority) are welcome to Shri Sai Leela. Reproduction of other writer's significant

passages should not be sent without acknowledgement of the source.

Articles on Spiritualism :- Such reflective, philosophical articles enlarging the scope of

spiritual understanding of our readers will gel utmost priority. They should cover Yoga,

Bhakli, Dnyana and Karma and other Sadhanas in India and abroad.

Special Articles :- Articles covering special occasions in a month, Discourses for women and

children devotees will be encouraged.

Unaccepted Literature :- Note-Writers/poets should invariably maintain one copy of their

writings with them. It will not be possible to return the unpublished material.

www.saileelas.org

5

SHRI SAI LEELA APRIL—1990

CONTENTS

1. Editorial Chakor Ajgaonkar

2. The Need For Baba's Teachings To The Present

World

Dr. R. Rukmani

3. Rama The Ideal Man

4. The Three Paths Of Shri Sai Baba C. R. Narayanan

5. B. V. N.-A Sai Dynamo Dr. G. R. Vijayakumar

6. Our Six Relatives G. Annaji Ruo

7. Devotion And Discipline P. V. Rao

8. Many Splendored Miracutous Sai Sai Devotee

9. Towards Life Divine (13) Chakor Ajgaonkar

10. What Part Is Played By Sai In The Miracle of'

Creation'.

O. V. G. Subrahmaniam

11. Pilgrim's Paradise K. M Bhagvati

12. SainathBabaAnandaSwarupa Miss Gayairi Rao

13. Besmear The Holy Ashes On Your Forehead

14. My Dear Blessed Sai Sisters Chakor Ajgaonkar

15. Success After Failures Komal D. Daswani

16. Why Fear When I Am Here - Sathya Kumari Rao

17. Magic Of Ramnam Vaikharitai

18. Profound Depth Of Knowledge

www.saileelas.org

6

EDITORIAL

THE MESSAGE OF SAI-RAM ON RAMANAVAMI DAY

The readers will recollect, that we have briefly dealt with the life and teachings of Baba and

His previous incarnation of' Kabir in the Editorials of April, 1989 and June, 1989 issues of"

"Shri Sai Leela" captioned "The Chaitranavami of Ninefold Devotion of Sairam" and "Kabir's

Birthday" respectively.

Ramanavami was very significant and eventful in the life of both; because the life of both

Saints is interwoven by a common threat! of Rama's devotion. Kabir has contributed the tinge

of unconditioned name of Rama to the Vaishnavai Rambhakti of the traditional-cull. Sai Baba

has contributed to 'Soham' Japa ol Naih-cull, the cotour of meditation on Guru's form and the

name of Rama of Ajapa style. Both were the servants of Alla, Rama and Sai (Swami). Both

denounced rigours, rituals and mechanical traditions. Their God did not dwell in Masjid or

Temple. He was cosmic God but residing in breathing rhythm. He was present in love,

devotion, surrender, humanitarian approach and service of humanity.

Let us turn to the inner mystery and purport of Kabir's and Sai Baba's individuality this time

instead of serving them through an external angle. Took at this Samadi Mandir with the flag

flying atop the golden peak together with a shining mercury lamp beside. The body of Sai is

interned in the shrine, where the idol of Gopalkrishna was to be installed. A thousand

devotees are visiting this place every day and fulfilling their vows, because Baba has

answered their prayers and given them, what they wanted, whether it was progeny, wealth,

fame, authority, power or even matrimony. It is therefore, that these people stand in gratitude

in a tong queue in from of the Mandir to fulfil their vows, to offer their obeisance. Yet, they

do not know the reason, why Baba has graced them in this manner. Even though they

understand it, they cannot appreciate it or act aptly on it. 'they will be putting up a new

material demand to Baba for fulfilment, they do not know, that Baba is expecting something

from them, that Baba wants them to do, what He desires them to do; what Baba demands

from devotees, is their devotion, uttering of name, surrender dedication and selfless service of

humanity at large. A common devotee is forgetful of this demand. We must awake them to

the fact. Let us therefore, leave aside His external appearance and enter into the inner cell of

His Samadhi to view His inner Truth. Let us understand His penance of Ramnam in previous

birth of Kabir and subsequent of Sai. This will help us to appreciate the true meaning and

significance of Baba's demand. This will surmount our devotion above the test line of Baba's

approval.

www.saileelas.org

7

Behold the Samadhi, where Baba's divine body rests. This is not a repose, it is all time

vigilance or alertness of Baba to help His devolves. Baba sports with His young Balgopals

here, lie talks, relieves and graces His Bhaktas from this tomb. This Samadhi is alt

awareness; because Sai does not reveal through a birth or vanish with a death. You can hear

the vibrations, the throbbings of Ramnam from every particle of Baba's body laid here. Kote

Patil and his contemporary comrades sleeping in the Dwarka Masjid had experienced this

astounding throbbing of name of Rama from His hands. Feet and all limbs of body. So, this

recitation of Rama's name in the form of Ajapajapa springs right from Baba's Kabir-

incarnation four centuries back. This Ramnam potent with Gurushakti was received by Kabir

from great Ramananda Maharaj of Benares. This Nirguna name brought out revelation of self

to Kabir. Baba has also revived the memory of Shri Rama by starting the Ramanavami

festival in Shirdi some eight decades back. Baba Himself is known as Sairam. Baba has also

established two idols of Hanuman near Shanipar in order to honour this great devotee of

Rama. Hanuman is Rama's Shakti. The Hanuman symbolizes the family Deity of Baba's birth

place in Parbhani district.

We have previously slated, that although Kabir and Baba were same entity and there was

identity in their life and teachings, there is a slight difference in their spiritual Sadhana-style.

Kahir attained realisation through the magical name, imparted by Guru, which was potent

with power. This was the case of Dhruva and Pralhada. Shri Rama, Whom Kabir adored was

noi the son of Dasharatha; but it was unconditioned Brahma itself. The ' “Ra” ' Nada, which

was stuffed in the Ramnam merged the mind, Chitta, Prana and the ego of Kabir and raised

his awareness beyond Trikuia Shikhara (crest-centre) and entered the Brahmarandhra to

assimilate into cosmic awareness. Kabir attained simple union (Sahaja Samadhi). Kabir's

devotion was of absolute unity of self and universal God. He adored name adopted from Guru

and the self manifested itself unto him. The pursuit of Nada has been adopted by Kabir and

his followers. Kabir calls conditioned God as N Iran Jan. His unconditioned Rama is beyond

this Niranjan principle. Kabir controls his Prana through Keval-Kiimbhaka and attains

mindless stale by transforming Rama's name into Ajapajapa in the case of recitation of

Soham in breath on the style of Natha-cult aspirants. The word assumes the characteristics of

sky (Akasha) and its Nada merges mind in Mahadakasha (or highest spiritual sky).

The vibrations of the name create similar vibrations in the subtle body and the subtle world of

Devatas and even the tongings and desires are fulfilled by these Deities without asking for

them. The Nada or the sound leads to liberation without strenuous efforts. The Nada has its

origin, the primordial Shabda, which is the source of this world. The pristine Nada is formed

www.saileelas.org

8

and gets itself manifested from the Mahadakasha to the Karana (or casual) world. It is bliss at

the very origin and its beginning is the primal 'Omkar' itself. It manifests in casual body and

we have to enter Ananda (bliss) through subtle and casual worlds. Kahir had known this

mystical truth, lie knew that, when the Nada of the Namasmaran or recitation of the name

enters through word and sound into mind and Prana, it travels upwards, crosses Trikuia peak

above Kutastha and through the Brahmarandhra establishes liaison with the universal God.

The white factors in the brain are responsible for cosmic contact. The Ramnam is capable of

bringing out this miracle. It brings oblivion of every other factor (The mind, the Buddhi, the

Chitta and the Ahamkar); but awakes us to the singular Brahma. Kabir knew, that the

equipoise of Buddhi and the stage of freedom from being was liberation. He attained Sahaja

Samadhi (simple union). This stage is not a static state. It is dynamic awareness of God,

where all imaginations end, the China toses Its ramifications with past and becomes sentience

itself, the self consciousness vanishes and the simple Unmani-stage prevails. This stage is

reached, when the man leaves the association of body and senses and merges with Rama,

which the name of Ram achieves.

Kabir says that the Pruna dwells inside breath, and the Sai dwells inside Prana. The mind

merges in Prana and Prana in God awareness, when the name resounds in breath and travels

upwards to universality. The mind and breath must merge above Trikuti (eyebrows). We

must know the mystery of Kabir's words:

This should be by our actual experience, not

words.

Kabir had attained such Unmani ' stage and Sai was residing inside him before

He incarnated again after four hundred years. Sadguru Vyankusha had the vision at

Subagshah Pir Dargah at Ahmedabad, that his dear disciple Kabir was to be born near

Manaval (Pathari). This instance was quoted in our April, 89 Editorial, which may be

recollected.

The readers may be recollecting, that Baba had stated before the one man Commission of

Dhule Court, that He belonged to Kabir-cult and His Guru was Vyankusha. The Sadhana-

www.saileelas.org

9

style, which Baba Himself had adopted and recommended to His Bhaktas, has been

delineated by us in July, 89 (Guru-Pournima) issue, in the "Editorial". We are reminding our

readers to revive their memory once again in this context. Baba's Sadhana was a beautiful

blend of Kabir and Natha-cult Sadhana. Kabir spoke in the Yoga and Nirguna Sadhana; but

Baba had never recommended such ways, although there are evidences showing, that Baba

was adept in Dhoti Poli Khandayoga and had ftourished all eight Siddhis like Anima,

Laghima, Ishita, Vashila, Prakamya etc. However, He recommended Bhakti, recitation of

name, meditation on Guru's form to His devotees, lie had assimilated all difficult practices;

but was rotary of Karma and Bhakti-marga with the touch of surrender arid dedication to

Guru or God. He had deprecated those, who practised Hathayoga. In brief, He did not reveal

His own strenuous Sadhana; but distributed the divine fruit of this Sadhana to worthy

devotees in the form of eternal grace and compassion. He relieved His Bhaktas from their

calamities first, granted them material gains and stowly won them over to higher plane, in

case they had the essential prerequisite of faith and patience and they deserved divine grace

and guidance. Such devotees were unfortunately rare. He shone like a Siddha or Avalia, Who

showered grace freely for benefit of humanity at large. It is therefore, that here before nobody

had attempted to interpret His Sadhuna authoritatively and satisfactorily. This is a difficult

task; but an humble effort is made herewith the permission of the kind Master.

The story of few disciples quoted by Baba, is symbolic. It denotes that the only disciple, who

wax full of love, faith and who fully surrendered to his Guru was destined to get the grace

and realisation through the channel of Guru-kripa. Guru subverted his mind, changed the

flow of consciousness to different direction and ended his imagination, menial designs and

ripples of thought. H is mind became no mind and he had the vision of self. The Guru carried

him across the realisation of self to higher Ananda beyond. Even in the Upadesha, Baba gave

to the aged Radhabai, He suited that He was constantly viewing the lace or form of His Guru.

The meditation on Guru's face brought Him Guru's grace, which ultimately made Him realise

the truth. He had to pan with two coins namely Shraddha and Saburi to His Guru as

Dakshma. It appears that this was characteristic of the Natha and Kabir-cull, that centred its

gravitation point on Guru and grace. Kabir emphasisdd on the Nadanusandhana (pursuit of

sound), which he derived from Natha-cult. It was but a part of Natha-Sadhana and not the

whole Sadhana. Baba on the contrary stressed on the meditation on Guru's form , which was

another characteristic of Natha-Sadhana. The faith stabilizes mind. The Sankalpas end to

render mind Nirvikalpa (still). The Vritlis are stopped in their play and the disciple becomes

Guru himself by concentration (Dharana, Dhyana) on the Guru's for in. The Guru being a

www.saileelas.org

10

Siddha and cosmic entity, bathes disciple under the current of grace. The disciple lias to end

his Prarabdha and Sanchit by acting with Shraddha and Saburi in day to day life, without

creating new Karma or its repercussions.

"Let, eyes meet Your Eyes, O Lord, let the flame of Atman burn, enkindled by Your kind

light" (Saigeetayana). Baba has to suggest this process of enkindling the flame of disciples'

heart through the took of grace. Baba's usual state was of Sahaja Samadhi (simple union) like

that of Kabir. Kabir has described in one of his songs that "Sadhu, the suite of Sahaja

Samadhi is blessed one. Since my Guru has enjoined me to this divine suite, I find that the

happiness is extending day by day". Baba's way seems to be of attaining or securing this

stage by good humanitarian actions, pious and moral character, toyally to Guru and grace of

Guru. He was against Yoga, Mantra, Tantra and desisted others from resorting to these

methods. Baba's way of initiation was to enkindle one flame from other flame through the

channel of grace. The name which was accepted by Kabir, was potent with the power and

grace of Guru. The 'Ramkar' in Ramnam raised Kabir to higher state of evolution. Baba was

not opposed to recitation of name, but it is seen, that He has not given Siddhanam to any of

His disciple. This is because, He believed in directly showering the grace on His devotees,

who deserved higher experience, lie was in Himself the source or the fountain of power,

grace and Ananda, which lie could transmit to others without any difficulty. He was a

munificic.nl donor, lie had all the precious wealth of His Sarkar (Guru Datta) with Him,

which He was eager to give to the deserving persons. But those near Him or approaching

Him, demanded only worldly things. Those who were near Him only a few deserved higher

grace. Baba said, "Whatever Sadhana you may be doing, you have to come to Me for its final

fulfilment". There is a mystery behind these words of Baba. The mystery is that the final

door, to be opened for Sadhakas, was through His grace atone. The Karmasadhana may lead

to Naishkarmya, Bhakti may lead to a state of Bhava, Dnyana may lead to equal vision, Yoga

may lead to subtle body. You cannot go behind this and cross the casual body to make way

for Mahakar ana-body or the Mahadakasha or the higher sky without I Us grace. He was the

representative of Supreme Guru, the source of liberation. It was grace atone, which could lift

one from Chittakash(desiresky) to Chidakash(sky of Shakti) and from Chidakash to

Mahadakash (the higher sky of bliss). This required the "automatic gears" of Baba's grace.

This phrase was used by Satya Sai. Baba calls this as Mahakripa. Nothing can be achieved in

the final stage without this Mahakripa. Sairam has to accept and uplift a disciple with His

ultimate grace to give the cherished gift of Mukti. However, the primary prerequisite for

descrying this kind of grace, is firm faith, Saburi, character, virtues, humanitarian service,

www.saileelas.org

11

selfless acts, devotion, patience, recitation of name, meditation on form. This coupled by the

lightning shower of grace illumines an aspirant devotees life with Unmani-slatc and the stage

of assimilation of self with cosmic self. If this is not purposely and patiently accumulated, the

.grace will not operate, finishing the cross currents of Prarabdha and Sanchita and the door of

liberation will not open.

This is the message for the distressed, tonging and practical minded devotee, so that he can

rise up to be Dnyani and Mumukshu devotee from the plane of Anna and Arlharthi devotee.

Every devotee, small or great, may try to win the grace of Sairam. This is what Baba would

desire and demand on a Ramnavami day.

As for advanced devotee-aspirants or for Dnyani and Jidnyasu Sadhakas Baba's message is

deeper and encouraging actual Sadhana of earning the wealth of His Sarkar (Guru Datla). It is

seen in Baba's life story, that He has never vindicated Hathayoga or Mantrayoga Sadhana. He

has always referred to the meditation on Guru's form and the bliss (towing from the Kripa or

grace of Guru. The Sadhakas are of many ways, but those, who are purely Dhyana-oricnlcd,

like Kabir, have recognised five ways or channels of Dhyana, namely 1. Pipilika (Ant) 2.

Shesha (Serpent) 3. Vihanga (Bird) 4. Mecna (Fish) 5. Kapil (Monkey)

In the Pipilika way, the aspirant concentrates on the navel-centre with Bhuchari Mudra. In the

Meena way, the meditation is directed towards the tip of the nose with Chachari Mudra. In

Shesha way concentration is focused on the crcst-centre with Khechari Mudra, with Dhuni

burning in from. In the Vihangama way, the point of tocus is eyebrow-centre and the Mudra

is Khechari with Shambhav Bhava. In Kapi-marga, the Mudra is Alakshya and the Bhava is

of Dnyana, with the Samyag Dristi. Kapi-way leads to simple union (Sahaja) with Soham

Dhyana adjusted with Ratnnam Sadhana. The Alakshya Mudra with attention to Prana

(breathing) is one of the characteristics attached to this type of Sadhana. Kabir has, it seems,

foltowed this way in his incarnation. This will be evident, if one sees the whole thing with

insight and inner vision. Sai Avatar had transcended both Haihayoga.and all Dhyana-

Sadhanas. He hadaitaincd Sahaja Samadhi in earlier incarnations and His Sadhana approach

was multifaceted all embracing and omniscient.

The symbolic posture adopted hy Baba in Dwarkamai was of Shesha-marga with the Dhuni

burning incessantly in front keeping a dose liaison with devotees, blessing them in free

Satsanga. In the Sitaram Maharaj Charita (Sitaram was brother of Tcmbe Swami of

Gurudeswar), written by Narayan Maharaj, 16th Chapter, explains Shcsha-marga:

"He sits in Siddhasana with the Dhuni, fire burning unceasingly. His speech is Parawani and

He docs not ordinarily resort to Vaikhari-Vani (He speaks less). He has already made 21

www.saileelas.org

12

(XX) Japas on the navel-point and has a free access to rise and fall from crest-centre to the

basic-centre. He has fixed His attention on the Kailas (Golhat circle) above the eyebrows,

where Shiva Himself reigns". (Chapter XVI)

The pose indicated is of a Mahaiman, Who has crossed the centres of desire and lust such as

Mooladhar Swadhishtan and has fixed His base on Manipur (Navel-centre) with His attention

rising high towards the thousand petalled crest-centre. He focuses His gaze above the

eyebrow -centre (Adnyachakra) with Alaksha Mudra as viewing Alakshya Niranjan Brahma.

The Dhuni burns incessantly before Him, burning the past Karmas of those, whom He graces.

The love torn Shambhava Prcma-peeth rests in His heart, whereas the knowledge (Dnyana-

peeth Golhat) shines above His Adnyachakra as the veritable Kailas. He merges the deserving

elevated aspirants from Chittakasha to Chidakasha and from Chidakasha to Mahadakasha

(the highest sky element for merger of Prana, Mana and ego). He docs not discard those, who

ask for practical or material gains; but He likes and loves such aspirants, who want the wealth

of liberation of His Govt., that He treasures within. He is sorry that nobody is desirous of this

wealth. Let us ask for this higher wealth on this auspicious Ramanavami day.

Now, I keep down my Editorial mantle after finally broadcasting these wise words of

prophetic and seeric value to my dear readers through the window of this last Editorial of

mine.

LET PARTING BE SWEET

• Dear "Shri Sai Leela" writers, poets and readers ! We were meeting through Editorial

columns every month, but it will not happen so now. This is eventually my last

Editorial dedicated at your feet.

• In the brief period of my Acting Executive Editorship, I have tried hard to upgrade the

standard of "Shri Sai Leela'' on literal, spiritual and reflective levels, orienting you to

the fragrance of Sadhana and the light of God's presence. I will still meet you through

articles on Sadhana.

• My mind is heavy today with sentiments of love, affection and gratitude for the kind

appreciation and co-operation tendered by you to me all these days. I might have

inspired faith and Ananda in the minds of my dear readers. I might have erred and

hurt some of you unknowingly. I beg your forgiveness in the later ease and wish you

all success, prosperity and Atmic happiness.

www.saileelas.org

13

• My heartfelt thanks to my "Shri Sai Leela" office colleagues, nay brother. I am

extremely grateful to them, the Accounts staff, Ex-officer, new Editors and Trustees. I

pray you to cherish the same warmth of love and affection to me for all times to come.

- Chakor Ajgaonkar

Thane-4. (T. N. 509180)

A grove of Kalpatrccs, the end of all calamities, the beauty of three worlds is Shri Rama,

Who is our Lord.

Shri Shiv says to Parvali, "O charming one, I take refuge in the name of Rama, Who delights

Me, while uttering His name as Rama, Rarna, Rama. A single name of Rama is equivalent to

a thousand names of God.

- Rama Raksha

A number of readers have been inquisitive about "Shri Sai Geetayan" (Marathi Book) and

"Shirdis Sai Ale" (Music cassette). The first is available with publishers Shri K. B. Dhawle,

Bhatwadi, Girgaum, Bombay 400004 and the other on all "Venus" cassette stalls.

BACK

THE NEED FOR BABA'S TEACHINGS TO THE PRESENT WORLD

Baba's Teachings Compared to other Religious Doctrines

"Adityanam aham Vishnur

Jyotisham ravir amsuman

Marichir marutam asmi,

Nakshatranam aham Sa Si."

Lord Krishna says in Bhagavad Gita

"Of the Adilyas I am Vishnu;

Of the luminaries, the Sun;

I am Marichi of the Maruts

Of the asterisms the Moon am I."

The luminary of the day is the Sun. The foremost among the luminaries at night is the moon.

These two heavenly bodies are considered as the embodiment of Lord Vishnu and

worshipped with great veneration. In other words God is considered as a Divine Light, ever

sought after, to remove the darkness of our illusion.

"Lead kindly Light, amid the encircling gloom,

Lead Thou me on

So tong Thy power hath blest me,

www.saileelas.org

14

Sure it will lead me on."

The Divine Light God is our guide in the troubles and tribulations of worldly life.

The Eternal Guide comes to our rescue, whether we seek his aid or not.

"Yada-Ymia hi dharmasya glanirbhavali Bharata

Abhyulthanamadharmasya ladatmanam srujamyaham

Paritranaya Sadhunam vinashayacha dushkruium

Dharmasanslhapanarlhaya Sambhavami Yugc-Yuge."

As Lord Krishna proclaims in Bhagavad Gita, whenever there is decay of dhrama and rise of

adhurma, then He Himself lakes human manifestation in order to protect righteousness and

for the establishment of dharma. Hence, from time to time an Incarnation of God or a man of

authority, sent by ISHWARA, comes to the world, puts all lapses in The practice of dharma

in an order and leaves a scripture for future guidance to mankind. This deputy of God takes a

form, which will be most acceptable to that particular period and he presents his preachings

in a delectable way, quite suited to the manner and moral standard of people of that particular

time.

When emperors were esteemed and worshipped by all people and their words were accepted

as law, Lord Rama and Lord Krishna came to the world as emperors and established dharma.

It was the lime, when all the scriptures like Vedas, Upanishads, Brahmasutras became too

difficult for the people at ordinary level to digest and follow. At this juncture first the

Ramayana was offered and then the Bhagavad Gita, the quint essence of all ancient scriptures

in vogue, was offered.

The Bhagavad Gita is universally accepted as the greatest religious scripture, as It presents

the fundamentals of Hinduism in simple language through beautiful illustrations. Bhagavad

Gita has its special merits.

(a) Direct leaching of Lord Krishna to His disciple Arjuna. Therefore, it has the curiosity

of the listeners and the interest of the teacher.

(b) It covers all stages and aspects of human life connecting religion to day-to-day life,

chalking out a practical path of righteousness for people to tread upon.

(c) Simple both in the manner of thought and language.

(d) It reveals through concrete illustrations, the greatness of Paramaima and the

characteristics of jeevatma.

(e) As Bhagavad Gita is very vast, It could offer varieties of instructions suited to

different sects of people.

(f) It leaches the way to attain eternal happiness through Bhaktimarga.

www.saileelas.org

15

Bhagavad Gita offers instructions to all walks of people like kings, common folks, Sanyasis,

Sadhakas etc., offering different paths of worship, like path of devotion, path of yoga and

path of dhyana; leaving the choice to the people according to their needs. But, at the end of

Bhagavad Gita after elaborately explaining the nature of divinity, the helplessness jeevatma,

Paramatma's omnipresence in all objects, and His capacity as creator, protector and destroyer.

Lord Krishna consoles His devotees to leave all paths of dharma and surrender themselves to

His Lotus Feet and He will lake care of all. It again causes confusion, when total surrender

can fetch Lord's help, where is the need for explaining elaborately in the earlier chapters

about Bhakii-marga, Dharma- marga, Dnyana-marga and the sacredness of doing one's duly,

the nature of sattwa, rajas and tamas gunas.

But, when even Bhagavad Gita seemed to be too difficult to understand for The majority of

human beings, they needed some easy way, as assurance from God, a sort of direct

agreement, that He will come to their rescue and give them salvation. When this kind of

spiritual need was fell, the three Acharyas came one alter the other to make people

understand the readiness of God's protection. Among these three Acharyas, Shankara came

first. But, his principle of Advaita was beyond the understanding capacity of common people.

Shankara equaled jeevatma with Paramatma and explained the occurrences and activities of

daily life as maya or illusion. This raised doubts in the minds of people. If the world is full of

maya where is the reality? What is the need to live in this world of illusion ? It is better to

renounce this world and concentrate on the ways to reach the stage of brahmam. Again the

ultimate goal, brahmam became an abstract concept, an Utopian ideal, with no hope of

reaching the goal. Advaita denies dualism, but human life as such is imperfect and hence,

unable to accept its identity with God, and more than that, unable to see Paramatma's identity

in any human being, however, great he may be. A doubt arose even in the power of

Paramatma, as He is equated with jeevatma the less powerful. Of course Advaita phitosophy

is a bliss, as it induces one to perceive Paramatma in everything and thereby trying to

emanate kindness and love towards all human beings. But, practically it was impossible to

perceive the hrahmaswarupa in all objects and at all time.

Madhava wanted to bring a clarification of this by stating, that Jeevatma is inferior, full of

demerits and Paramatma is superior and both cannot be one. But the way to reach Paramatma

and to reach the stage of total perfection etc. became ambiguous. Hence, the doctrine of

'Dvaila' was less promising to the masses. At tins stage Ramanuja's Vishishiadvatiam came as

a solution to the innumerable doubts of people. Ramanuja reaffirmed the fact, that this

worldly life is worth living, for there is nothing deceptive or 'avidya' in It. It is reality, as the

www.saileelas.org

16

eternal reality Lord Narayana has created it. Worldly life can be a bliss, if one surrenders

himself to Lord Narayana. Ramanuja summarizeed the whole system to Indian Philosophy,

ranging from the vedic: hymns upto the doctrines of various Acharyas in one sentence,

surrender to Lord Vishnu the Supreme force, Who has a beautiful human form, with an

enchanting flute on His rosy lips. This form of Lord Vishnu, which is worshipped,

concentrated and meditated by innumerable saints like Andal, Meera, Surdas, Chaitanya,

Vallabha, etc. was advocated by Ramanuja. 'Saguna upasana and Namajapa' are the easiest

way to get devotion and the path of devotion is a straight, even path. There is no chance of

one being misled in this. Ramanuja instructed to one and all the Mantra of O.M

NAMONARAYANA. Ramanuja explained the divinity as a personal God, with a beautiful

Swarupa. He described the relationship between ilicdivimlv and the living beings in this

world, as the one between parent.-, and children. The divinity is in the torn of the

compassionate and loving father Shri Narayana and mother Mahalakshmi. Just as everyone

of us receive, whatever we need from our parents, who are ever ready to forgive all our

blemishes and are always planning to offer us the highest gilts, which can make us happy.

Just as our parents feel happy, when we are truthful, honest, good, clever, and thus

possessing the sparks of divinity, in the same way our universal lather and mother,

Mahavishnu, and Mahalakshmi are there, always keeping us in their loving care and feel

immensely happy, when we possess a righteous conduct. Just children are part and parcel of

their parents, yet different from them, so is the relationship between the jeevatma and

Paramatma. Paramatma is Saguna, and is the embodiment or manifestation of all divine

attributes and has a beautiful enchanting form. The highest goal in life is to reach Shri

Vaikuniha and be with Shri Narayana, the one God, Who, if we wish can come to us in any

form, winch we love, as mother, lather, servani, friend, Guru or child. Ramann ia assured I

hat the earths is real anil worldly life is not illusion and it is wo'ih living. The divinity of God

is present everywhere and as God and the divinity are real, worldly life is also real. To reach

Narayana. Ramanuja says, "No strenuous effort is needed, but just Namajapa, repetition of

Narayana's Name." Ramanuja was the first preacher, who introduced the concept of 'Serve

Bhavantu Sukhina' 'Vasudaiva Kuttimbakam', that is those. who worship the omnipresent

Lord Vasudeva, belong to one family. Hence. The narrow barriers of caste, creed etc. are to

be given up. It is only pure devotion, which elevates the position of a person and not anything

else. Ramanuja himself, accepted Thirukachi Nambi, a Vaisya as his teacher. The doctrine

Vishishtadvaita is easier for the masses to follows and it aims at universal brotherhood by

removing all caste differences. But, there was one difficulty, people were already

www.saileelas.org

17

worshipping their personal God in different forms, like Lord Muruga, Shakti , Shiva,

Vmayaka and through their personal experience with the God, Whom they worship, they can

have, a personal communion with Him, whenever they desire. Ramanuja's stress on one God

and Lord Narayana as that one God was aimed at to intensify the concentration and devotion

of everyone and put an end to the quarrels arising iu the names of God. For Shri Ramanuja,

Narayana is synonym of God. Ramanuja's Vishishtadvaita was acceptable, but a further

explanation and interpretation of that doctrine was needed so as to reach the masses.

During the reign of Delhi Sultanate and the Moghuls, Islam became the Slate religion and the

conversion of people from Hinduism to Islam started. Sometimes it was optional, because of

the material benefits, which the people could get from the monarch, sometimes because of the

easy concept of one God, and sometimes because of some practical difficulties and threat.

Whatever may be the causes, after twelfth century, it became necessary, that the Hindus and

the Muslims should live peacefully in one country.

That was the lime, when Kabirdas and Gurunanak started stressing the concept of "One God',

Who is the 'Ram' of the Hindus and the 'Rahim' or 'Allah' of the Muslims. The idea of

universal brotherhood was propagated. At the same lime to make spiritual path easy,

Tulasidas, Meerabai, Surdas, Vallabh and Tukaram preached 'Saguna Marga', worship of the

Lord with divine attributes. Kabirdas declared, that all religions lead ultimately to one

destination, that is the realm of that One God. The concept of One God in Kabir's philosophy

impressed the people. But, regarding realization of God, Kabir leaned more on Advaita and

the. understanding of sell, and the realization of God in oneself. This again confused the

people for only great seers and sages could understand the inseparable Brahman within

oneself. Further Kabir laid emphasis on renunciation of everything to attain bliss. This is also

impossible for all, just as the impracticability of the concept of extreme non-violence of the

Jainism. Kabir laid too much emphasis on the unreality of life and the ultimate destruction of

body, in oilier words the unreality of the worldly life. Whatever drawbacks were brought

against the doctrine of Advaita, the same were applicable to Kabir's philosophy as well. After

the coming of the Europeans to India, Christianity spread rapidly in our country. The non-

violence, tolerance, mercy, absolute faith in Jesus Christ, the synonym of utter selflessness

etc. attracted the people. The Industrial Revolution and the advancement of science and

technology made the vast world very small, communication quick and easy, and the

dependence of one country on another, one community on another and one person on another.

The scientific advancement resulted in making the people run mad for power, wealth,

supremacy, and comfort. In a way, people became over confident, thinking that they could

www.saileelas.org

18

achieve anything by their intelligence, the ego in them asserted itself, in such a way, that they

even started arguing against the existence of God.

The dawn of the 20th Century witnessed people marching ahead towards destruction. Sai

Baba, the Rama of Treta Yuga and the Krishna of Dwapara Yuga, the Allah of Xth Century

A.D. and the Jesus Christ of 1 A.D., Kabir of 16th Century appeared before us in a form,

acceptable to people of all religions. His White dress made Him took like a Jain Saint, a

Tirthankara, or an apostle of Christ. His innocent, calm and serene face reminded one of

Jesus Christ, His turban reminded the Muslims of Allah, His sitting pose, as a Guru, with

crossed legs and hand in the form of Abhayastha reminded the Hindus of Dakshina-moorthy,

Thathatreya and Lord Narayana; His total detachment and disregard of material things

reminded the Buddhists, of the great Buddha, Who renounced His earthly kingdom to rule

over a divine kingdom. His concern for Hindu-Muslim unity and upliftment for the masses

reminded them of Kabir, and His stressing on 'Hari Guna Ghana Bhajan' reminded them of

Tulasidas, Surdas and Meera. Yes, Sai Baba's universal religion is an amalgamation of the

fundamental doctrines of all religions. He made religion more practical, easy, connecting it

with our day-to-day life. So far people were struggling, because they could think of religion

only as something apart from their day-to-day life. Baba's preaching’s are according to the

psychology and need of this modern world. Baba did not encourage conversion. He wanted

every one to stick to their own religion, the form of God, Whom they already worship. He

advocated a perfect democracy in the matter of religious worship. Through this He warned to

achieve unity among people, and establish universal brotherhood.

The point to be noted here is, It is actually very difficult for one to leave the form of God,

Whom he is already worshipping and start worshipping a different form of God and follow

different way of worship. Baba made it very clear, that all our prayers, worship etc. reach

only that One omnipotent God. As Baba wanted worship of God to be made a habit at the

initial stage. He asked people to do numaaipa, concentrate on God's form and perform Arati

four times a day.

Since in the modern world everyone is busy, always struggling to earn his livelihood, they

have no time even to do regular Poojas, utter daily prayers etc. The modern world has made

the people business minded, and just as business contact, they want assurance from God, like,

if they say their prayer, what will they gel, if they trust God, what benefit they will gel, if

they help the poor and the wretched, what profit they will gel, etc. Hence, Baba as absolute

Parabrahma, as Himself, the Purna Purusha, gives His promises, in very simple words, just as

a mother tempts her child, saying, if you are friendly with your brother, I will give you this

www.saileelas.org

19

toy or sweet etc. The very first word of His promise is, when one comes to His abode, he has

perfect security, both physical and moral. He is collecting His children from all places and it

is not they, who come to Him on their own effort. He advises people not to renounce this

world, undergo hardship or observe fasting to reach God, but just foltowing a righteous path,

and speaking always the truth, are enough to get the blessings of God. He stressed this faci

that, if we are sincere and firm in our devotion, then we can get 'Sakshatkara of God in any

form, we like. Service to the poor and the needy, service to the benefit of humanity etc. is

service to God. Thus, Baba's path connects our spiritual life with our worldly life, whereas

the preachings of other prophets before Baba, separated spiritual life and worldly life as two

separate entities.

Baba as Dwarakamai assures Her love and protection to all, and Her abode Dwaraka, is an

abode of peace and love, where everyone can enjoy the bliss of eternal happiness. Baba's call

to the entire humanity to come to Dwarakamai, has made volumes and volumes of various

philosophical doctrines ranging from the Vedic age down to the preaching’s of Ramakrishna

Paramahamsa, very simple, clear and acceptable to all. The realization of the existence of a

Divine Mother, to take care of our day-to-day needs, to protect us from dangers etc. is

actually, what is required on our pan. How fortunate we are! Just as in this busy scientific

world we have all convenience like electronic equipments, transport facilities, computers etc.

to make our life comfortable, in the same way spiritual side also we have a convenient,

comfortable and easy doctrine to follow.

- Dr. R. Kukmani

Madras - 600 061.

BACK

GOLD FROM OLD

RAMA THE IDEAL MAN

(From Shri Sai Leela, June, 1973)

Occasions like Sri Rama Navami are very useful and necessary as they remind us of our great

national heritage.

Men of wisdom in the hoary past meditated upon the eternal verities of life and left for

posterity the fruits of their labour in their great works. This vast corpus of literature

constitutes our rich national heritage and Valmiki Ramayana is an inalienable part of it.

In Valmiki's Ramayana we sec the unfolding of a great human drama as its central character,

Rama, who pursues Dharma (righteousness) with unwavering singleness of purpose and

www.saileelas.org

20

without regard to consequences. By the sheer strength of his character and right conduct,

Rama compels those devoted and loyal to him to follow his difficult example.

Rama did not renounce the world and become a sanyasi. Though he knew he was an avatara

purusha, he conducted himself like a mere mortal. He was a grishata, very human, loving

compassionate, courageous, capable of righteous anger, proud, generous to a fault, loyal and

passionately devoted to truth.

Valmiki's Rama lived in and for dharma. Though overwhelmed by grief and an unending

chain of misfortunes, and though grieving and suffering, he never deviated from the righteous

path.

There is hardly a man or woman among us who does not have an ideal. But we do not attain

the ideal because of a failure of character. Rama has shown that it is possible for everybody

to attain the ideal goal of life if only one strives hard enough and develops strength of

character.

It is for this reason that, unlike Krishna who wrought miracles in unmistakable manifestation

of divinity, Rama is held as an ideal man, because he walked the earth like an ordinary

mortal.

In the troubled world of to-day, in spite of the increasing signs and symbols of material

prosperity, happiness has become a rare commodity. Tension, violence, greed and intolerance

are the order of the day.

The reason for this malice is that even minor virtues have become rare and are at a discount.

To put it differently, it is our blind selfishness that is at (he root of the general unhappiness.

We are so blindly selfish that we cannot see that we are hurling ourselves while denying

others.

Let us pause in this mad rat-race, and ponder for a while. We can easily sec that happiness is

ready at hand, is attainable here and now, and not in a remote heaven, if only everyone of us

became a little less selfish and a little more sensitive to the needs and sorrows of the others.

A close study of the Ramayana shows that by sincere practice we can attain this sensitivity.

That is why Ramayana is relevant even unto this day. We are indeed beholden to Valmiki for

bequeathing to us this great epic, Ramayana, this great treasure house of ancient wisdom, and

this priceless gift, Rama, the ideal man.

- Sai Padananda Radha Krishna Swamy

BACK

-

FOR SHRI SAI LKFLA OLD SUBSCRIBERS

www.saileelas.org

21

* If there are any changes or corrections in address, our Shirdi Office (At & Post Shirdi, Tal.

Kopargaon, Dist. Ahmednagar.) may be informed, as early as possible.

* Your Shri Sai Leela Subscriber Number should be quoted in all correspondence pertaining

to Shri Sai Leela.

* Please, sec your Subscriber Number and Month/Year of expiry of subscription on the

Address Slip for timely renewal of subscription.

• The subscription should be remitted two months prior to the date of expiry of

subscription.

BACK

THE THREE PATHS OF SHRI SAI BABA

There is absolutely no disputation, that Shri Sai Baba of Shirdi is one of the greatest

manifestations of the Entity, that we call God or Brahman. If one ventures to ask or is

desirous to know the distinctiveness of His teaching during His incarnation, the answer can

be comprised in just three words, Devotion, Meditation and Surrender.

Devotion or "Bhakti" is the efflorescence of the heart and mind, together working in

conjunction towards God and "Guru". The "Bhakti" may be articulate or silent. If articulate, it

may express itself in words, songs or panegyrics about the Infinity, that fills one's mind or a

reflection of the Infinity in the form of teacher of "Guru". Many songs of Sai Baba have come

from Das Ganu Maharaj, and in spite of the persistence of his egotism marring his complete

merging with his Deity, the outpourings of Das Ganu, certainly relied the greatness of the

"Avatar" of Shirdi. Songs on Sai Baba may be replaced by His "Nama Japa", producing the

same thrill or psychic elevation. In this method of extolling the God on earth, as they saw Sai

Baba of Shirdi, both Radhakrishnamai and Justice Rege excelled. The inarticulate form of a

"Bhakti" may be even more eloquent than the articulate. Witness the faces of Sri Baba's

worshippers in His temple. Many appear lost in beatific contemplation of His picture or idol

with their eyes open. Others, you find standing or sitting with eyes closed, but a smile almost

seraphic is imprinted in their lips. Or this "Bhakti" may find its expression in the form of

ceremonial worship. Did not the simple soul Megha, worship Him in body and in picture with

"Arghya" and "Archana" as Shiva or Mahadeva? Did not Varde worship Baba, as

Satyanarayana or His image in the Masjid or Dwarakamai itself with banana saplings around

His person and with flowers and fruits and all other ingredients of idol worship in front?

Thus, "Bhakti" is diverse in expression, but one and the same in import and that is adoration

www.saileelas.org

22

of the Lord. Even as Shri Krishna of Dwapara Yuga, Sai Baba of Kali Yuga has stressed on

the efficacy of "Bhakti-marga" in obtaining salvation in one's life and to the average mortal

the path of adoration or "Bhakti" is the easiest in this direction.

See the injunction of Baba on meditation. Meditate He says on His formless sell if possible,

or His body or any part of it. While He lived as a mortal during His incarnation. As

contemplation of and meditation on His "Nirguna Brahman" is only within reach of those

gifted with an inner vision; let us mediate on His "Saguna Brahman".

Every part of the form of Baba is reminiscent of the Infinity, that He is. Fortunate indeed

were the contemporary .worshippers of this "Avatar", Who drank and drank the lustre of His

form during the mid-day "Aarati" in the Masjid and the night worship of Him in the

"Chavadi" both in the flesh, and meditate they did on His radiant form till they were suffused

with spiritual ecstasy. What about the present day worshippers of Sai Baba, the question may

be raised. They have His picture in their "Pooja", they see His form either in picture or in

marble in His temples. If one with faith and sincerity contemplates on His form, filled one

will be by a myriad expressions emanating from His face. Peace, serenity, joy, bliss,

sunshine, warmth, benevolence, tranquility, these are the sensations enveloping one

worshipping Him. Even as devotion, meditation pays, and both devotion and meditation do

not call forth any strain or effort on the part of a true worshipper of Baba.

When it comes to surrender to the Deity, two shining examples of the primary devotees of Sai

Baba come to our minds, and these are Kakasaheb Dixit, and Shama (Madhavarao

Deshpande). Poles apart were these two in the social plane, Dixit being a distinguished

solicitor and politician and Shama, a simple villager will) very little of educational

background - but in their merging with Bhagavan Sai, both ascended to heights equal, though

in the case of Dixit, it was the intellect and in the case of Shama, it was the heart, that

received spiritual enrichment from the object of their worship. The modern devotee of Sai

Baba of Shirdi can seek enlightenment from Dixit and Shama in the way to complete

surrender to an "Avatar", a unique blend of God and Guru, shining like a beacon for

generations and generations to come. If even at the first prostration, Hemadpant fell all his

senses satisfied, so as to even forget thirst and hunger, how much more to an exalted spiritual

elevation, must have been the experience of Dixit and Shama and the like in their complete

surrender to their Deity! Both Dixit and Shama addressed Baba as Deva, for He was to them

their Deity all in all. But, if one makes bold to state, in the case of the intellectual Dixit,

placidity and serenity prevailed in his complete surrender to Baba, while in the case of the

www.saileelas.org

23

irrepressible Shama, it was spiritual love bubbling all over, a simple unsophisticated villager,

that he was.

- C. R. Narayanan

Madras-600 041.

BACK

B.V.N. - A SAI DYNAMO

"A jeweller like Sri Narasimha Swamiji knows the value, of a gem andi will not rest till he

brings the brilliance of the crystal to the people’s notice."

* Das Ganu Maharaj

I did not see Narasimha Swamiji till those eyes of flesh; yet, the love and reverence of my

hcart moves out to him in an unbroken stream.

The world will never know, how many thousands of Sai-devotees felt eternally greatfu to

B.V.N. for the spiritual uplift and inspiration, they received from his writings. B.V.N. did not

know it himself. For he worked in a quiet, unconscious of the good, that flowed through him -

putting Sai Baba 'out of Maharashtra'.

Month after month, for over twenty years between 1936 to 1956, the peace, that was in his

heart - the peace, that he won not without much agony and travail since 1921 - went out to the

world in printed words, touching many hearts with new hope, new courage, new faith in life

and in Sai Baba as the Lord of this Universe. Many turned to B.V.N.'s books and leaflets for

comfort and consolation and for the strength to face the difficulties and dangers of life in the

true spirit of surrender to Sai Baba.

There is something - an indefinable, ineffable force - in the simple words of this simple man,

which made them penetrate the human heart and, not unoften, set it aflame. B.V.N.'s writings

are windows, where many a soul beheld Sai-grace, where trials and tribulations of mundane

existence do not reach, where sorrows and sufferings are seen to be welcome gifts, which Sai

Baba gives to His devotees.

The treasure, which Sai Baba gave him in 1936, when B.V.N. stood before Baba's Samadhi at

Shirdi, he unstintingly shared with all, who would receive it. And as they came under his

magnetic influence, their lives became more sunny, more beautiful, more fragrant, more

useful, more loving, more serviceable and more Sai-like.

B.V.N. was a powerful Sai-dynamo. It was given to him to influence the lives of

countless numbers of people to charge their minds, to touch their hearts, to cleanse them of

www.saileelas.org

24

all animal alloy, to urge them to march on with unhasting, unresting steps, ever forward

onward, Sai-ward.

B.V.N. was an 'Apostle of Sai Baba'. He had the Saint's longing for a life of holiness, a life of

union with Sai Maharaj. For him, apart from Sai Baba there is nothing. "We are all in Sai

Baba's hands", he affirmed again and again. And Sai's hand is in everything, that happens. So,

everything must come to pass at the right time.

Sai Baba to him was direct experience of God, achieved through the practice of interior

silence, meditation and prayer. In the poor and needy, in the lowly and lost, in the blind and

cripple, in the bird and animal, he saw the masks of Sai Baba. He served them, but he clung

to no creature , he clung to Sai Baba atone. He gave compassion, he gave service, he gave the

love of his big, beautiful heart to all, who came to him. In short, "His life was the expression

of love to all - he lived only to give out to the world all, that was given to him".

B.V.N.'s body, having fulfilled its task, dropped down on 19th October, 1956. His hand, that

wrote words, which kindled flames in many hearts - his hand is stilled today. But his memory

rises all the more radiant. And his message, which was the joy and inspiration of thousands,

lives in many hearts. Blessed be B.V.N.'s memory.

- Dr. G. R. Vijayakumar

Tamilnadu.

BACK

FOR SHR1 SAI LEELA NEW SUBSCRIBERS

* New subscribers may enrol themselves from any month, however, they will he receiving

the issues after two months for obvious reasons.

• Subscriptions may be remitted by Money Ordcr/Chequc/D.D. The Cheque/D.D.

should be in favour of "SHRI SAI BABA SANSTHAN, SHIRDI".

BACK

OUR SIX RELATIVES

TRUTH IS OUR MOTHER:

The mother always keeps a watchful eye over the child and takes care of it. She protects it

from all dangers and accidents. The mother bird too spreads her wings and brings the little

ones under their shade. She protects them from sun and shower and from any foul play.

So, does Truth protect man from all troubles in life!

www.saileelas.org

25

Plenty are instances to show from literature, where the vow of Truth brought final victory to

man. In recent limes, we saw, how Gandhiji waged a peaceful war with Truth and non-

violence as weapons and brought freedom to our country.

Truth, like a loving mother, is the shield, that protects us from all dangers in the battle of life

and brings us final peace and victory.

KNOWLEDGE IS OUR FATHER:

A wise father always tells the boy, what is good and what is bad. The boy's future depends on

the training, which the father gives him in the early days of his life. The boy is what, the

father makes him.

So, does wisdom or knowledge prevent man from falling into bad company and vices. It

helps him to keep the company of the wise and the pious and trains him in right-conduct of

life.

It is indeed, the father, that initiates the son to Gayatri, as the primary Guru.

Knowledge, like the father, with its power of discrimination, helps us to keep away from

petty pleasures of the senses and to realise eternal truth and bliss.

DHARMA IS OUR BROTHER:

The elder brother stands by the younger one and guides him, with his example, in the

performance of duty - duty to the parents, duty to the family and duty to the society. He leads

the younger one through thick and thin to final victory.

Yudhishitra never deviated from the righteous path nor did he allow his wife and brothers to

deviate from it. He led them to ultimate victory.

The sense of Dharma or righteousness is an unfailing support to us in times of trouble and

doubt and leads us to prosperity in this life and in life hereafter.

Dharma, like the elder brother, saves us from falling into pitfalls and helps us to reach the

goal.

KINDNESS IS OUR FRIEND:

A friend is an unfailing companion in every walk of our life. He is ever helpful to us with his

sound advice. A true friend comes to our help in limes of need.

But, such a friend is not easy to find in society. It is only love and kindness on our pan, that

can make friends of others.

Kindness begins kindness and makes friends of strangers and enemies too. Even wild and

cruel animals become lame and friendly to a loving and sympathetic person.

www.saileelas.org

26

If we love others, others love us in return. A kind and loving person is never in want of

friends. By extending love and sympathy to a person in distress, we derive all the benefits,

that a friend may extend to us.

So, a sweet and loving word on our tongue is spoken of as a friend in any walk of life.

CALMNESS IS OUR WIFE:

A loving wife stands by her husband in limes of adversity and helps him. She does all the

service with soft and pleasing words. She is not perturbed by The harsh words of her

husband, but with calmness brings him round.

She is herself always calm and composed and she keeps her husband also in perfect peace by

her sweet words and service.

A calm and peaceful mind, like a loving and devoted wile, always serves to overcome

troubles in our life and brings happiness.

FORBEARANCE IS OUR SON:

When our limbs are weak and feeble in old age, it is the son, that comes to our help and

serves us.

As an anchor safeguards the ship in troubled waters, so does a son safeguard the interests of

his parents with patience in their old age.

If we endure the troubles in the dark days of our life with patience, bright days will dawn

upon us in course of lime.

The power of forbearance of endurance, like a true son, is the only refuse to us in adverse

circumstances. It enables us to sustain ourselves in troublesome days till we see sunny days

ahead.

Adherence to these gifted qualities is a great virtue, practised by a few, but respected by

many. It protects man from all troubles and difficulties in life and ultimately brings crown of

success and glory to him.

We may lose our earthly relatives, but these Godly qualities are spoken of as the six never

failing relatives in our life.

Thus run the lines:

www.saileelas.org

27

Satyam mala pita dnyanam dhannam hhrala daya sakha Slianii patiu'c kslmma putra

shadaiic mama bancihavaha

- G. Annaji Rao,

East Godavari Dist.

BACK

The life of Rama cannot be couched even in hundred crores of stanzas. Even a single letter in

it is capable of destroying heavy burden of sins.

A human being, who remembers Ramachandraji as Rama, Ramabhadra, Shri Ram etc. is not

even touched by sins. He wins liberation as well as happiness.

- Ramu Raksha

DEVOTION AND DISCIPLINE

Sai Baba is our saviour. We bow down to our Master, Who is the giver of boons - bounty; the

dispeller of delusions and darkness; the remover of sins and sickness; the destroyer of fear

and fright; the harbinger of peace and progress.

People think of God only, when they are in distress. They pray to their family Deity or Ishta

Daivatam - say Lord Venkateshwara, Subrhamanya, Narasimha, Anjaneya, Dcvi Durga etc.,

and as soon as their problems are solved, they go to the temple, perform Pooja and give away

their offerings according to their vows.

As indicated by Lord Krishna in Gita, the Almighty, Who has taken His Avatara as Rama,

Krishna, Buddha, Jesus, etc. according to the necessity for Shishta Raksha and Dushta

Shiksha; it is our belief, that the same Almighty has the Avatara of Sai Baba in Kaliyuga. It

was proved by Baba, beyond doubt, that He is the embodiment of all the Deities. The

specialty of Sai Avatara is not only to help the good and deserving (Shishta Rakshna), but

also to help and convert the wicked into Realised Souls. Baba responds to the prayers of all,

solves their problems, helps them and places them in comfortable position. Once their desires

are fulfilled, they continue to carry on their prayers, develop devotion and enjoy the bliss of

Sainath.

Baba says, "My men approach Me only for material benefits, like - Employment, Prosperity,

Children, Cure of diseases etc. They get their heart's desire fulfilled and are comfortably

placed in life. Then, they follow Me and progress further" - BCS-56. Many may not know,

what is to be followed to progress further. This was made known by Baba to His followers

during His life time. Now, let us sec, what it is:

www.saileelas.org

28

In case of Shri Raghuvir B. Purandare, Baba demanded Dakshina of Rs. 21- i.e., Nishlha

(faith) and Saburi (patience) - BCS-142. Mr. Purandare informed Baba, that he had already

given these - faith and patience to Him. Then Baba informed him to keep up Nishtha - to be

strict and anxious to fulfil all promises, he made. Baba further said, "You should have truth

always with you, wherever you are and at all limes". Mr. Purandare promised Baba, that he

would try his best, and requested Baba to help in controlling his mind. Mr. Purandare further

said that Baba often insisted on his adherence, to Truth. (See Devotees' Experiences, Vol. I)

In the case of Raosaheb Yashwant Janardan Galwankar, Baba while demanding His Dakshina

of Rs. 2/- in his dream, gave two valuable directions. They are (1) to behave with Probity and

Integrity and (2) to maintain Purity or Chastity. (See Devotees' Experiences, Vol. I)

From the above, it is clear, that Nishtha does not mean mere faith in Baba. But one should

also have Chittashuddhi i.e., Pure heart and right conduct. As indicated by Baba in the above

two cases, we must:

1. fulfil all the promises we make;

2. adhere to truth at all times;

3. behave with Probity and Integrity;

4. maintain Purity or Chastity.

Shri Raghuvir B. Purandare was very passionate i.e., hot tempered. Baba told him often, "If

anyone comes and abuses you or punishes you, do not quarrel with him. If you cannot

endure, speak a simple word or two, or else, go away from there. But, do not battle with him

and give tit for tat. I feel sick, when you quarrel with others." - BCS-210.

Baba used to say this to Mr. Purandare and also to others several times. (Sec Devotees'

Experiences, Vol. I) This is the type of Saburi or Sahanashakti (patience), Baba wants from

us.

When we approach Baba for the redressal of our difficulties, as a mother, He consoles us and

fulfils our desires. Further, when we adhere to the directions cited above, maintaining

Nishiha and Saburi, definitely, Baba will guide us and help us to swim across the ocean of

Samsara happily. We are not to be satisfied with this. We must follow Baba and progress

further in spiritual upliftment and Self Realisation.

Normally, one cannot get rid of the results of Prarabdha -Karma without suffering - BCS-113.

Shri Bhimaji Patil of Narayangaon, suffering from severe and advanced stage of T.B.,

approached Baba, as no medicine could help him. Baba pointed out, that the disease was due

to Prarabdha-Karma and did not like to interfere. Baba, however, became soft, when Bhimaji

Patil cried out in despair and sought refuge in Him. Mr. Patil was vomiting blood once in five

www.saileelas.org

29

minutes even in the presence of Baba. Baba took pity on Bhimaji Patil, cured his disease in

no lime and protected him with love and kindness. (Sec Chapter XIII - Shri Sai Satcharita).

For Baba, Who is Omnipotent, Omnipresent and Omniscient, nothing is impossible.

See, what Baba has said further for the welfare of His devotees. "Those, who are fortunate

and whose demerits have vanished, will be taken over the seven seas; believe in these words

as you wilt be certainly benefitted. I do not need any paraphernalia of worship - either eight-

fold or sixteen-fold. I rest there., where there is full devotion." (Para 2, Chapter XIII - Shri

Sai Satcharita)

Many of us are unable to keep up our own promises or stick to truth, leave atone maintaining

integrity or purity. Are these not demerits?

We must try to get rid of these demerits as early as possible by our continuous prayers,

Parayana,Nama-japa etc. with full devotion to Sainath, so that we may not only reap the

benefits of the eleven sayings of Sainath, but also to gel spiritual upliftment and Self

Realisation by His grace.

With this aim, let us all lake an oath today before Sainath, that we will abide by His

directions:

1. in observing absolute truth;

2. in fulfilling the promises, we make;

3. in behaving with Probity and Integrity;

4. in maintaining Purity or Chastity;

5. in maintaining Saburi - (patience) or absolute Sahanashakti .

Also, let us pray Baba to pardon us for any known or unknown lapses on our part in

observing these directions in the past.

Once again, let us all prostrate at the Lotus Feel of Sainath and request Him to control our

minds, lead us in the right path and shower His Blessings to achieve spiritual upliftment and

Self Realisation.

P. V. Rao

, Madras-600 092.

BACK

MANY SPLENDOURED MIRACULOUS SAI (Continued from March, 1990)

We have found our Madurian friend replaced in his old job, contrary to many possibilities

expected of him. His lame began to spread and he was thriving in his office too by helping

everyone connected with the organisation. Because of his universal love and desire to help

www.saileelas.org

30

persons in need, he was drawn into the organisational life and he soon became a much

respected leader in his own way in his field of representation.

The year 1956 saw the birth of Life Insurance Corporation and he was transferred from the

place of his work to the Divisional Office. Slowly here too, he came a popular figure

endeared to one and all. He lead many organisations and made them all thrive.

We all know, that he has vowed not to marry, but to lead an exclusive life of bachelor-hood

for the service of people, with whom he came in contact with. His faith in Lord Sai Baba

grew stronger and stronger and he was amazed to find that his life was shaping in a different

direction from what he expected. By virtue of the assignments he undertook, he was forced to

travel to various places in India in the organisations, he represented at their behest.

The most unexpected turn of event was in his family life. He was not married till his age of

35. He systematically rejected all offers of matrimony and he ran away from his place,

whenever people visited his house in that connection. One day Sainath appeared in his dream,

seated and reclined in an easy chair with an imposing personality of Him. While Sai was

sitting thus, the parade of his ancestors came and all of them praised Sai Baba for bringing so

much change on our friend save marrying him to a suitable girl and if that was done, their

family can grow and he could lead a noble Grahstha's life. Almost with tears, they were

appealing to Sai Baba to do something and it was because of Sai Baba and the oath, our

friend gave to Him, that he would not marry, and he was slicking to bachelor’s life. They all

together prayed for Sai Baba's intervention. Great Sainath showed all this drama to our friend

and asked our friend, was He responsible to this stale of affairs! Sainath told my friend to

reconsider his vow and to oblige so many souls, who desire to sec his married life. Moreover

Sai told him in his married life, he would be doing greater service to humanity. Our friend

moved by Sai Baba's advise, told Sai Baba that he was willing to marry.

If that was His wish and the first bride offered to him within one month (30 days) from that

date onwards, whatever her caste, creed, colour, deformity or whosoever she may be, she

shall be his lawful and wedded wife. With all accepting it the dream melted. Once again the

Leela of Sai Baba equals to Lord Krishna and He plays many wonders in everybody's life is a

common knowledge to all of us, who experience His Grace day in and day out. It was very

strange from that day onwards no one came to our friend with the proposal of marriage, as

everyone was afraid, that he would not only reject, but severely will reprimand and pounce

on them. It was on the thirtieth day -- (a day after that he would become a permanent

bachelor dedicated to me service of Lord) ~ in the night after 9-00 P.M., incidentally that

being a Thursday, his sub-staff friend (who later rose to a higher position), who gave him

www.saileelas.org

31

slicker, when he lost the job, met our friend and emboldened to ask him about his marriage

by proposing a girl's name. Quit expectedly no opposition came from my friend and the father

of the girl talked to the friend and requested him to marry his daughter. He after taking

permission from his people for marriage, readily gave consent to marry her. Fortunately, that

girl was a colleague in his office, placed in a decent job. The marriage was arranged under

surprise to all although it ran into rough weather for some lime, due to their respective

different status in life.

We must say a word about this great woman, he married and she was a greatly dedicated

woman with all virtues in profoundly. Before they entered into real married life, they both

visited all places of pilgrimage in South India and witnessed many soul stirring events in all

places, they visited. Immediately, thereafter in a year or so, they were blessed with a male

child, who was named after Sai Baba. This boy also grew well with all virtues and became a

first class Engineering graduate. More hope is centered on this boy, as he would be making

many marks in his life, befitting to the name, he possesses. Our friend did not have further

children from thereon to this day; but their tiny family presents a picture of devotion,

dedication, service and progress.

(to be continued) -- Sai devotee

BACK

REALM OF SADHANA

- Chakur Ajgaonkar:

TOWARDS LIFE DIVINE - 13

In the preceding articles, right from No. 1 to 7, I have dwelt upon the need for turning our

face to Life Divine and the initial preparation for the orientation towards this change. I have

described, how the external world is an elusive sight and how the four centres of infatuation,

namely the lust, the fame, the money and the power deviate one's path away from the path of

light and tag us to the darkness of maya. I have also insistingly emphasised,how perpetual

effort to purify body, mind and buddhi is inevitable in order to tread upon the path of

illumination. It is unavoidable, that we should traverse the way of inner purification, so that

the gross as well as subtle and casual body should be cleansed. If this is not done, the

longings, desires and lusts will cause a rebirth on account of accumulated Karma. If the

consciousness is purged in this way and the God-ward contact is continued, the ego is opened

out to give an entry to the God's own ego in individual frame. This stage is a stage for actual

entry into Sadhana.

www.saileelas.org

32

Thereafter in Article No. 9 to 12, I have again elaborated the points through the valuable

thoughts and observations of great Siddhas and thinkers, which include the thoughts of

Yogis, Namavadis and Bhaktivadis. I have summarised the thoughts of Saints and sages

including Prof. Belsare, Babamaharaj Arvikar, Satya Sai Baba etc., so that the main theme is

introduced in a vivid, simple and convincing way to the readers. This has, I expect, given a

picturesque impression on the minds of the readers regarding correct values of life and way

of Sadhana. The nature and the purpose of Sadhana also must have been explicit by now.

Now, I propose to elucidate actual Sadhana on the basis of my own experiences, as also the

truths woven in Dnyaneeshwari, Gita, Bhagwat, Kabir-Sadhana, Gurugita, Patanjal and

Rajayoga, as also the tenets of Datta and Nath-cull-Sadhana.

Let us first find out the actual impression of the experience of realisation of truth, described

by Paul Brunton, Saint Tukaram, Gorakshanalh, Adi Shankaracharya etc.

STERLING EXPERIENCE OF REALISATION:

The Sadhaka with mind purified by Karma and devotion gels divine experiences much earlier

than others. The foreigner Sadhaka Paul Brunton expresses his own experience of the glance

of grace from Maharshi of Arunachala.

"Raman Maharshi comes to reveal something not to argue anything with us..... His mind is

imparting something, though no words may be passing between us. In a few seconds I

compose myself and bring all wandering thoughts to a strong centre. In that stillness, the

mind is withdrawn into itself, one's familiar world begins to fade away into shadowy

vaqueness. After a skirmish with lazy dalliance of surface life, the mind comes to

concentration. Some new powerful force comes into dynamic action within inner world and

bears in word with resistless speed... I stand apart from the intellect, thinking consciousness.

Power of thinking, which was a pride to me, becomes a thing to watch with detachment. I

stand outside intellect and watch the very action of brain, the rise and fall of thoughts... I

trace thought in its original source. Real self reveals itself. Waves of thought naturally

diminish, as I come to the birth place of thinking. Waves of thought diminish to zero-point.

Deports of body senses do not reach me.

I stand outside things on the edge of world's secret. Mind takes its rise in transcendental

source. Brain stands in complete suspension as in deep sleep, but there is no toss of

consciousness. Sense of awareness as brought out of narrow confinements of a separate

personality and slips into something all-embracing. Loom shuttle of thought is stopped. I am

in open air...

www.saileelas.org

33

I touch in flesh the meaning of this mysterious drama, which is being enacted in space and

return to the primal-point of being. I now rest in the lap of holy bliss. Yesterday's bitter

memories and tomorrow's anxious care have disappeared completely. I have attained divine

liberty and an almost indescribable facility. I embrace all creation with profound compassion.

I am remoulded in rapture...

Life is nobler than thought. Obey subtle injunctions, whispered by life into heart in half fell

intuition. Justice rules the world in its inexorable weight though its operations are unseen...

When the night of protracted agony dies, the dawn of new found wisdom glimmers."

ADI SHANKARACHARYA:

In Yogataravali, it has been staled that the Kevalkumbhak (Thribandha and stoppage of

inhaling, exhaling in stomach withdrawn pose) is useful in neutralising, the Prana on the

Trikiita-poini. Then, the Ida and Pingala are abandoned by the vital airs and Prana merges in

Manas and both Prana and Manas merge into nothingness. The natural tendencies of the

senses are stilled to a naught. The eyes lose winking, opening or closing. The Prana stops

coming out or going inside. The mind stops Sankalpa and Vikalpa. This is the Unmani stage.

The no-mind (Amanaska) stage has no swinging of breath, the eyes are half open hall"

closed. The aspirant must experience this Amanaska Mudra. The web of Karma must vanish

with shattering of Sankalpa-Vikalpas. The perpetual philosophical thought (Vimarsha) should

end into Yogic sleep and the aspirant must lie on the couch of Turiya. This is a description

made by Shankaracharya of a Sadhaka, whose Prana is stabilized and mind merged, who is

experiencing Yoga-Nidra and Unmani-siagc. This is divine life.

SAINT TUKARAM:

Tukaram describes realisation experience as follows:

"The Pranas have been sluggish, drowsy and slumbering. The sign of immortality is manifest.

The eyes have dilated by light, throat is chocked with sentiment, the body is thrilled with

ecstasy. The mind has been glued to the self and is motionless. The blue light is lit like in a

dawn. The seventeenth Kala is exuding Amrit. The sun and moon are together. The Jiva is

allying with Shiva. The ecstasy is sprouting in the waters of bliss. The Jiva is plunged in

Ananda and mind is Unman. The awareness of space, direction and time has died down.

Alma has expanded into universe. Aham has merged in Soham and the external world has

vanished. The Brahma has blazed out of heart as a flame. I was striving for this divine

experience throughout my bygone years of life."

ARVIKAR MAHARA.J:

www.saileelas.org

34

The pure light unbound by lime and space is seen. God is inside and outside. Silence is mute.

The devotee steps in Unmani. The old world has vanished. New light has shone. Alma is

universalized without dissolving its identity. Guru and disciple, Chakor and the moon are

one. Four Mukti are at hand.

BACK

WHAT PART IS PLAYED BY SAI IN THE MIRACLE OF CREATION?

Is there anything conceivable, which can be called a miracle other than the creation itself? It

suggests to me there is none.

Can we say birds flying in the sky, aquatic species existing in water and the creatures, that

live in the vast expanse of world and firmament, are as miracles. We cannot imagine of our

flying or be under water or reach the remote stars and celestial bodies hanging in and around

us in the normal way and so, we may postulate these as miracles. We may also have to

dismiss them as quid normal, for they are their normal nature to be so, since they cannot exist

in other conditions.

However, from our stand point, observations and capabilities, there are several things, that we

do not know and their activities when observed, they indeed strike to us as miracles. More we

are steeped, in ignorance, the experiences of miracles, by and large increase and sway our

mind with Awe.

More and more knowing and the knowledge increased in us, The myth and deception of

miracles, wonders and unique things happening, disappears from us and we only see the

Reality. That is I, mean the existence of God only.

It is my endeavour in this small essay to speak of the part played by Gad in solving the puzzle

of our existence. It is my ardent wish to establish that Shirdi Sai's appearance in the drama of

the world is to annihilate, the pith and substance of our misconception of the world, its

existence and the myriads of things, that upsets us and keeps us in different states of

amazement and understanding.

Well, what existed in the beginning and what is going to be the end or other words, what

survives the holocast? Different answers have sprung from different quarters in answer to the

above questions. Even the lexis of religion of various hue and colour, ancient and modern

gave some explanation to the mystery of the creation. The Scientists, Geologists and others

explaining the very same question also attempted to answer it in their own inimitable style.

People of varied faith, who believe in this or that got satisfied with the explanations offered

by various culls and beliefs to which they are most drawn. In spue of all this, the million

www.saileelas.org

35

dollar question remained, with no one being absolutely satisfied with the results of the

probe, but still longing for a clear-cut, un-wavering, true and real answer for it.

Whatever be it and the beginning may be, we invariably deduce that, if there is anything

before creation, it is none other than, say, call it God, Shakti (Potential Power), capable of

multiplying changing into a mass of things endowed with vast power and potential life

(Jeevan Shakti ). Life permeates and percolates in the order of creation every where, that

appears as many, but in essence this life force (Jeevan-Shakti) has its existence in only One,

that is God. Therefore, the common saying has arisen, 'All is that only' and originated from it

and ultimately the force of God gets merged in its Being. We also infer, there is nothing

called total destruction or resurrection. They are only changes in status, repealed in

successions, perhaps in infinite ways. Every destruction is for construction.

However, we have now to confine ourselves to the existing things of opposites, that makes

the creation possible and that displays the power and glory of God.

It is possible and meaningful only, if pairs of opposites exists, that shall make the creation

sustainable. Jillallamudi Mother' Anasuya' says that the differentiation atone makes the

creation a reality. God wants this play to endlessly continue as a sport of Him.

Well, then in this seemingly chaotic creation based on Karma (action and reaction) theory,

there is order and set laws, which undoubtedly govern it. Where imbalances are noticed and

the order and the law imposed on the creation, is disturbed and threatened, the Avatars sprung

from the energy of colossal dimensions called God. Undoubtedly, Lord Sainath is The off-

spring direct from the real power be, in the form of a Human being at a particular spot of the

world in India and that too in Maharashtra. Shri Satya Sai Baba used to say that certain things

and talents are found only in certain places. So, also India is a land of Holiness and hence

Holy and Avataric Purushas abound in large number in this Indian Sub-continent, i.e. Bharat.

Maharashtra abounds with large number of Bhaktas and Saints and specially The Godavari

terrain produced remarkable Saints. There is indeed no difference between God and Saint.

Lord Krishna explicitly says in Gita that He resides in Saints. Sai Baba is above the order of

Saints and in fact, He represents the Primordial Energy, the God.

His advent saw a great transformation in the political horizon of India and in the unification

of our country. While He was living, many people contacted Him and The silent work in their

varianted natures have planted tremendous change in them, as is found in the Shri Sai

Satcharita authored by Rev. Annasahcb Dabholkar and Rev. B. V. Narasimha Swamiji.

How Sai works is unique. He allows the creation to go on untrampled and brings in subtle

changes in the relationship and minds of the beings. He helps people in distress and woe, by

www.saileelas.org

36

cutting across the-jargon of Karma and gives them ample scope to rectify and develop. Sai

looks alter minutes, needs to the highest requirement of emancipation. The constant faith in

Him and the prayer to Him (Sai), wards off many dangers and isolation. The trust in Him

slowly develops to spirited love on Him and for everything one is made to depend on Him

only. Finally, He enriches His devotees to love everyone and the creation to serve with

steadfast faith. The advance devotee perceives only Sai Baba in everything. Sai Maharaj

trains His lovers to face several ordeals of life with ease and without the desire of seeking

anything at all. The greatest transformation He brings in His devotees in desirelessness and

stowly, but steadily march to the Summom Bonum of life of the realisation, that He is God.

When Sai Baba plays a miraculous part all over, the grip and influence of H im is so

expanding every nook and corner and nil is blessed to see the world, the creation fast moving

to an ideal plane of Sell Realisation and utmost satisfaction.

This is a Golden Era. Let, all take to His Bhakti and directions and it is so sure, all doubts of

the creation will cease and everyone shall ultimately see the creation as a play, which should

be effectively and happily acted by all, while their merging in the Totality of Sri is a definite

certainity.

The part played by Sai Bhagawan is the miracle, which is far wider and greater than all the

miracles of the creation.

O. V. G. Subrahmuniam,

Kistna Dist.,

A.P. - 521 001.

BACK

PILGRIM'S PARADISE

Shirdi • far from a simple village now

Is a place of holy pilgrimage

Made holier than the holy cow

By Baba's abode in the village.

The very air you breathe here

Carries rare spiritual balm

And you feel drawn so very near

To holy, soothing - peace and calm.

To temple atone is not confined

The sanctity of holy place

www.saileelas.org

37

For all around you'll always find

An aura of His Divine Grace.

The food served here is more than food

It is Prasad - The Purifier

A bite of which can do great good

To raise mind, soul and spirit higher.

Even a man given to crime and sin

Comes to Sai and weeps for same

And tries with Faith, His Grace to win

He'll be pardoned and be free from shame.

Shirdi is unique in many a way

Here casts and creeds are all the same

For men of every faith here pray

A common prayer in His name.

True, rites and rituals are performed

For some, sec in them a meaning

But to Sai - the poor, simple, uninformed

Are the same without such leanings.

- K. M. Bhugvati

Bombay - 400 049.

BACK

SAINATH BABA ANANDA SVVARUPA

The glittering figure which sparkles like gold,

dressed in a simple style a Kafni and tied a

piece of cloth to His head and a knot to the

left side, He had a earthen pot to store water

and another for keeping His food and His pipes

to smoke.

Baba had beautiful eyes like blooming lotus;

Who is omniscient, omnipotent and omnipresent,

Sainath Baba the Universal God blessed the land

of Shirdi in the Human form may be around the year 1838.

Om Shirdi Sainath! Om Shirdi Sainath!

www.saileelas.org

38

Sainath Baba's power is unlimited and immeasurable,

"Sai! Sai!" is the sound that reverberates from

the sky and earth.

Sainath Baba is embodiment of love, ,

Let Satya be His Prachar,

Let Dharma be His Achar,

Let Shanii be His Swabhava,

and let Prema be His Swarupa,

Sai is Divine, Let us follow anyone, we are His.

Om Shirdi Sainalh! Om Shirdi Sainath!

The lamp of name Sainath Baba when it is lit,

will illumine the household and make it a

home instead of a hole.

Sainath Baba the Lord is the Sun, when His rays

fall on our heart, the lotus bud blooms;

Petals unfold and fragrance permeates the

Universe and keeps our sorrows, worries,

ill-health, anger away and gives us Ananda.

Sainath Baba is none other than God Himself

at the home of supreme holy place called

Shirdi Dwarakamayi.

Om Shirdi Sainath! Om Shirdi Sainalh!

- Miss Gayatri Rao

Bombay - 400 054.

BACK

SHRI SAI GEETAYAN - 12

I BESMEAR THE HOLY ASHES ON YOUR FOREHEAD

(Baba unravelled to Nanasaheb the pith and core of Dnyanabhakti, in which He embraced

transience of life, the lucre Maya and the futility of ego sense. The ravages of Samsara are

unveiled by decay and death. The incessantly burning Dhuni (fire) in the Masjid made the

devotees alive to the facts of life. Baba used to distribute ashes (Holy Udi) to the visitors as

Prasad. This was a symbolic offering to awaken the ignorant men and women steeped in

desire to the scene of final remains of existence, ^simultaneously rejuvenated the dedicated

www.saileelas.org

39

devotees, cured them, and enjoined them to the divine life, the immortality of soul and the

magic touch of grace.)

* "The human existence is finally reduced to a handful of ashes; the wealth, the kith and the

kin are momentary associations". This is what the Dhuni fire tells day and night. Awake,

arise, besmear the Udi to your forehead. Though this is a product of the same fire of Dhuni, it

would unfold to you the dazzling light of immortality beyond death. Besmear the holy ashes!

* These are no ashes, this is life, that survives demise. This is the bond of Lord Krishna's

everlasting love. This is the holy thread of protection vouched by the Master of Dwarka. This

is a living portrait tot the divine principle in the world of mortal beings.

i * The life is a perpetual and unending warfare against lust and • desire. This collection of

five senses will vanish into five elements. (These ashes are throbbing with the music of the

Lord, only have cars to listen.

* This is the love and affection of Mother Masjid (Dwarakamai), this is the alchemy of Alla

Maliq. This is the divine grace of the Majestic Fakir. These ashes are the bond of love woven

by the Lord of Vaikuntha.

* The auspicious smearing of the ashes dispels the fever of the world (Bhava). The ashes

shower Atmic bliss, eliminate the veil of Maya and flood life with the nectar of grace.

This is an unlocked door to heaven, an open gate of liberation and a free and bountiful

harvest of deliverance. These ashes are potent with the strength of love and the solidity of

unity of soul, which are invaluable treasures of the immortal life beyond the human existence.

I (Adapted from original Marathi Song)

BACK

FOR SAI SISTERS

MY DEAR BLESSED SAI SISTERS!

Dear Sai Sisters, we wish to open a new feature for your benefit and publish special articles

as and when space is available in "Shri Sai Leela". We invite our worthy readers and writers

to contribute their mite to this feature in English and Marathi. Our Sai-brother Shri Anil Rasal

will be contributing his words of wisdom from the next month's issue to make a modest

beginning.

Dear Sai Sisters, you should remember, that you are nearer to God than our Sai brothers. Do

not think, that I am flattering you. This is a fact, because the hearts of ladies are more simple,

emotional, sentimental than these of males. They kick crookedness and guile, since they are

less prone to the adverse and complex problems, strife’s and frays in life. They can retain

www.saileelas.org

40

their natural simplicity, benign ness and purity of mind, as they are not as exposed to heal and

dust of running life. God wants pure heart and flowering emotions and sentiments as

offerings of devotion, which our women-folk can give in greater measure than our male

friends. In Krishna's life the Bhava of Gopis, was upheld as highest pitch of Bhakti, from

which the Premi-Bhakta of the order of even Uddhav took a Lesson. The devotion and

dedication, the serving nature, the organising and executive capacity of women is useful as a

cementing force in the life of spiritual efforts and organisations.

Radhakrishnamai, who came to Shirdi after her early widowhood, changed the counter of

Shirdi and blossomed the heaven of Bhakti into an organised Sansthan. This is an example of

capacity and efficacy of ladies in bringing out transformation.

Dear Sai Bhaginis, I will tell you one secret in this para, which • you should muse over,

contemplate upon and try to assimilate in your mind:

"Devotion docs not mean offering of flowers, doing Pooja, performing Upacharas and

fulfilling vows. Devotion means directing the current or flow of mind towards Sai, the Lord.

Bhakti means viewing God in every being, whether it is a tree or creeper or a bird, a beast or

a human being. Bhakti means directing every act, emotion, thought and desire to the Feet of'

the Lord. Bhakti means meeting and accepting every pleasure or pain as the will of' God with

the attitude of faith and patience as preached by Sai. Bhakti means continuing the life of

morality, virtue and altitude of service in all circumstances, whether they are favourable or

disastrous.

Sai dwells in softened heart. The heart must melt, it must be mellowed, delicate and sensitive.

Such persons are loved by Sai, the Lord.

The eagle is chased by other birds till it holds last the prey in its beak. As soon as it is cast

away, the eagle is free from the embarrassment. Similar is the case of sorrows in the world.

As tong as we slick fast to The lusts, greed’s and desires, the pains and sorrows chase us and

torture us. Once the attachment is cast away, we are free from Samsara's effect.

Dear Sai Sisters, brood upon each of these words, each of this sentence and write a beautiful

paragraph for this women's feature. If it fils our taste, we will publish it in this feature atong

with your name.

- Chakor Ajgaonkar

BACK

-

www.saileelas.org

41

SUCCESS AFTER FAILURES

I am a Bombayite, who got married a few months ago. I now slay in U.S.A. Driving

knowledge in the States is very essential. I was a novice. So, I also wished to learn driving.

But, for this, one has to go Through a written test on the computer first. And one cannot fail

for more than five times. The lest is confusing and hard. I failed twice.

"If a man utters my name with love, I shall fulfill all his wishes"

- Shirdi Sai Baba

This echoed in my mind and I went on a Thursday to take one more test, uttering the Holy

Name of our Perfect Master Shirdi Sai Baba with love. I also carried "Shri Sai Satcharita"

with me and kept it on the Computer Machine, praying to Sai to help me this time. And what

a surprise! by the grace of Shri Sai I passed the test this time.

- Komal D. Daswani

Greenwood, U.S.A.

WHY FEAR WHEN I AM HERE

"Jewels are many, gold is one Names and forms are many. God is one."

- Satya Sai Baba

"God is one: bin wise men call Him by many names."

- Rig Veda 164:46

"I am the light of the world: he that folleweth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have

the light of life"

- John 8:12

"If you spread your palms with devotion before Me. I am immediately \\ith you day and

night. ''though I am here bodily, still I know, what you do beyond the Seven Seas"

- Sai Baba

In what follows, I would like to narrate my real life recent experiences of All Powerful Sai

Baba, Who is everywhere and Who belongs to everyone of us, be He a Christian, Muslim,

Zoroastrian, Sikh, Hindu, etc., 'as there are no if s, might's or hope so's: God's promises are

sure and definite always.'

It was during the month of July 1989, that I was indisposed (suffering from sore throat, body

ache and fever) and was treated initially for about four days by our family doctor - It was on

July 15th, 1989. that as my eyes turned yellowish and my health problems, in spite of our

family doctor's medicines, continued to worsen, we consulted an expert (Physician -

consultant to the Ramakrishna Mission Hospital, Khar, Bombay), who advised several

pathotogical and radiotogical tests and immediate hospitalization. It was diagnosed as a very

www.saileelas.org

42

severe case of Jaundice and the condition was about to turn to coma stage. (Bilurubin level

had gone up to 12 & SGPT & SCOT level was 800). Baba's Udi (sacred ash) was applied all

over the body and was taken mixed with water and exactly 15 minutes before admission to

the hospital, the postman delivered two copies of Shri Sai Leela Magazine (English-Hindi &

Marathi), which gave a sigh of relief, that Divine Doctor, i.e. Lord Sai Baba was

accompanying the patient i.e., me to the hospital, where round the clock treatment was

administered - 12 bottles of saline, injections and tablets etc. To the amazement of the doctors

and all of us, within about eight hours alter hospitalisaiion, Jaundice was brought under

complete control (Lord Sai Baba's photo in addition to Baba's Udi intake both times +

Reverend Ernest Angley's Blest cloth, which had been received a week earlier than sickness

were placed below the pillow) as, according to the sacred Bible, 'when your soul is right with

God, you can receive any promise in the word. God loves His children, and He will not

withhold any good thing from those, who love and serve Him... for I am the Lord that health

thee (Exodus 15:26).

After I was discharged from the hospital, I was under complete rest, strict diet, regular

medicines and had to go through periodical pathological tests etc.; of course Baba's Udi was

taken daily both limes. Consequent of illness, I missed college lectures and practical for

nearly two months and was getting worried and the whole future looked bleak filled with

darkness. Especially, it was almost an impossible task from human point of view to make up

for lost practical' classes in Textiles & Clothing and Chemistry. Our respected teachers

(Gurus), beloved classmates and esteemed Principal gave encouragement and extended lull

co-operation at every stage.

I resumed classes from September 5lh, 1989 (after Gouri and Ganapaii festivals) and

appeared, with one day's preparation, with Baba's infinite grace took a challenge and with full

confidence, for Second Unit Tests, which started from September 7th, 1989. Hurrah! I passed

to the amazement of everyone including the lecturers for, in the words of Divine Satya Sai

Baba, "my treasury is full and I can give anyone, what he wants, but I have to see, whether he

is qualified to receive, what I would wish to give." Praise the Lord for this humanly

impossible achievement!

Now, I would like to narrate my experience, that how letters written to Baba are answered

by Him. It was on October 1st, 1989, that I wrote a letter to Divine Sai Baba seeking

blessings for good health, happiness and for coming out successful in the forth coming First

Semester Examinations. On the very night I had a dream of a big flower descending from

Baba's photo to my hands. My first semester Examinations were completed on November

www.saileelas.org

43

21st, 1989 and I accompanied by my parents attended Divine Satya Sai Baba's birthday

celebrations ai Prasanthinilayam on November 23rd, 1989 and from there left for Bangalore

by bus. On November 28th, 1989, we visited Lord Subrahmanya Swamy (Lord Shiva's son)

Temple. While praying at the Temple, a very big flower garland fell exactly unto my hands.

My joy knew no bounds and recollected my dream of October Ist, 1989, which proved

beyond doubt, that Divine Sai Baba is Lord Subrahmanya and He is Shiva Shakti, and He is

Lord Jesus Christ, He is Allah and Almighty God. it was our fortune, that we visited the

famous Lord Ganapati (Lord Shiva's son) Temple (popularly known as Dodda (big)

Ganapathi Temple) and Sai Baba Temple at Bangalore and received richest blessings.

Hurrah! the priest at Sai Baba Temple took out a very big flower garland after closing prayers

from Sai Baba statue and gave it to me with a request to distribute to the hundreds of

devotees, who had assembled in the hall!

We all returned to Bombay on December 3rd, 1989 and learnt with immense joy, that I had

passed the First Semester Examinations very creditably and congratulations after

congratulations were showered on me for this unique achievement, which is due to the richest

blessings of Divine Sai Baba for He says:

"I will not give up My men and I have to account for everyone that come to Me."

Let us trust in Baba and surrender completely to Him. Love All; Serve All; Bow to Sai Baba.

- Satya Kumari Rao

Bombay-400 054.

BACK

CHILDREN'S CORNER

- Vaikharitai

MAGIC OF RAMNAM

Young Sai devotees, I shall be speaking about the magic and mystery of Rama's name on this

occasion of Ramanavami. It is said that Rama's name is potent with meaning and power.

Even Lord Datuureya and Lord Shiva recite the name of Rama. Shiva, Who had assimilated

poison (Halahala) from the churning of ocean (Samudra Manthana) had allayed the

dangerous effects of the burning liquid with the pacifying effect of Ramanamamrita. Valmiki

had become a sage with the touch of Rama's name, which eliminated all the effects of sins of

his past life and made him a visionary poet. The stones, which bore the name of Rama ftoated

above the ocean in Lanka expedition.

www.saileelas.org

44

Forgetting these mythotogical vindication of Ramnam, we should face the reality in its true

cotour. The name Rama is composed of Ram , which is a Shakti-Bija with the beauty, power

and symmetry of the all powerful Tripurasundari Devi. Hence, it has all allaying, cooling,

pacifying effects, which manifest by its utterance or recitation. The resounding of the word

Rama raises the Nada or Shabda through our Nadi-centres above the navel and lead it

upwards with love and affection in heart-centre to the crest-centre. This vibrations rise up

through the heart, Kaniha and Talu-centre to the crest-centre and merge in the higher sky.

The mind merges in the sound, the Prana merges in sky and the consciousness is lifted high

above to the head and spreads in the cosmic-sky through its potency. This leads a man to the

God-hood, . Jiva to Shiva, individual self to the universal self.

Young friends, this is a process of evolution, which is a little bit difficult for your young

minds to understand. But, you can rest assured, that utterance of Sai Rama's name will raise

you to higher plane of mind, to a higher way of life and a higher stage of progress, both

physical and spiritual. Therefore, bow to Sai Rama on this auspicious occasion of

Ramanavami or Rama's birthday.

BACK

WITH BLESSINGS OF SHRT SAI BABA

PROFOUND DEPTH OF KNOWLEDGE

Articles of A. E. Editor in Shri Sai Leela are superb! They are a treasure trove of Dnyana and

Bhakti. They are a gift of Baba to ignorant worshippers like its. The inspiration seems from

Baba like Hemadpant because each of the article shows profound depth of knowledge. Keep

up the How of blessed articles.

-Noshir Karunjia

Bombay.

The writings in Shri Sai Leela is simply beautiful and charming! Millions of thanks.

— Basavaraj Gunaki, Advocate Belgaum.

I am going through the articles of A. E. Editor with great interest and respect.

-K. V. Raimin Reddy

Kalahasty.

The illustrations sun of knowledge as reflected in the Sadhana articles of A. E. Editor can

never be clouded by passing clouds. The calm, robust erudition coupled with deep knowledge

of reality backed by experiences of Yoga and life can never be feinted.

-O. V. G. Subrahmaniam,

www.saileelas.org

45

Kistna.