Shirdi Sai Baba Life Teachings and Stories

Shri Shirdi Sai Baba Blessing Cards - Information and Details

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 13:15:00 +0000

We all talk with Lord Sai Baba in one or the other way and we have certainly experienced that He responds according to our faith and karmas. Shri Shirdi Sai Baba Blessing Cards are of such kind and following are all details pertaining to this treasure.

Shri Sai Baba Blessing Cards launched - Presumably for the first time in the world

Baba, in His inimitable way has guided me step by step through the idea to the printing and distribution of Shri Sai Baba Blessing Cards, says Shamshaad Ali Baig.

What does Shri Sai Baba Blessing Cards mean?

Shri Sai Baba Blessing Cards box contains 60 utterances of Baba with colourful and attractive design and a guide book.

Baba’s Blessing Cards are His blessings and guidance, which we can seek in our day to day activity or when we are going through a challenging phase in our life. The cards are a means to connect with the divine; they are easy to use by anyone as it is accompanied by a step by step guide book.

How this idea came from?

I was being guided by Baba to bring out these cards since last year, but then I would think who will buy Baba’s cards when there are Tarot cards and Angel Cards in the market. Moreover Baba’s messages are very philosophical, how can they answer any one’s query on every day issues like love, career, finance, etc. Plus, lack of finance would stop me.

Chapter 10 - Kakasaheb Dixit Diary

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 12:40:00 +0000

Previous Posts in this Series:

Introduction, History and Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Few more incidents are covered in this interesting chapter of diary of Late Shri. Kakasaheb Dixit.

Chapter 10 - Kakasaheb Dixit Diary

My friend’s daughter who was an insane was pregnant. She used to shout all the time and throw things out of window. She was due to deliver but doctors had already hinted that the delivery may be a tough one. This made everyone worried. A good nurse was appointed to take care of her. But Lord Baba had blessed her and all problems got solved.

Chapter 9 - Kakasaheb Dixit Diary

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Wed, 01 Aug 2012 05:30:00 +0000

Previous Posts in this Series:

Introduction, History and Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Let's go through another interesting chapter with interesting incidents from diary of Late Shri. Kakasaheb Dixit.

Chapter 9 - Kakasaheb Dixit Diary

Laxman Bhatt hailed from Shirdi. He was a Brahmin. I (Kakasaheb Dixit) wanted to buy a piece of land from him. While we were dealing, Laxman Bhatt offered the land for Rs.200. I bargained and told that the land would not cost even a single penny more than Rs.150. That day, the deal could not be settled.

Then Laxman Bhatt went to Masjid. Lord Sai Baba asked Bhatt regarding the settlement of land dealing. He advised him to settle the deal by taking an average price of Rs.175. He added, “Do not agree below this price”. Bhatt did not discuss about Lord Baba’s advice to anyone.

Chapter 8 - Kakasaheb Dixit Diary

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Fri, 27 Jul 2012 03:35:00 +0000

Previous Posts in this Series:

Introduction, History and Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Let's again cherish golden moments of times of Lord Sai Baba from diary of Late Shri. Kakasaheb Dixit.

Chapter 8 - Kakasaheb Dixit Diary

While, once I (Kakasaheb Dixit) was in Shirdi, I received letter from my brother that Balu Kaka and Nanasaheb Karamvelkar’s wife were seriously ill. This matter was made known to Lord Sai Baba. On being asked about Balu Kaka’s future, Lord Baba said, “He will get cured soon.” When the case about Karamvelkar’s wife was made asked, Lord Baba exclaimed, “Hasn’t she come yet?” I told Him that she has not come to Shirdi and whether a message can be sent to call her here. Lord Baba replied in affirmative. After some time news came that Balu Kaka got cured completely and the lady (Nanasaheb Karamvelkar’s wife) had passed away.

Krishnaji Narayan alias Chhotu Bhaiyya working as a Magistrate at Harda, had written a letter on February 11, 1924 which is as follows:

Chapter 7 - Kakasaheb Dixit Diary

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Mon, 23 Jul 2012 12:08:00 +0000

Previous Posts in this Series:

Introduction, History and Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

After a gap, i am hereby posting another chapter from diary of Late Shri. Kakasaheb Dixit.

Chapter 7 - Kakasaheb Dixit Diary

Once Madhavrao Deshpande (Shama) suffered a lot from typical type of pain. He went to Lord Sai Baba and shared his problem. Lord Baba said, “I will give the medicine in afternoon”. To save His dear devotee from the pain he was suffering, Lord Baba Himself prepared some decoction using sonamukhi (English Name: Alexandrin Senna Hindi Name: Sonamukhi. Sanskrit Name: Rajvriksa, Bhumyahali) leaves. He called out Shama and asked him to have the medicine as soon as possible. The moment he took the medicine, the pain started to subside and no trace of it remained.

Chapter 6 - Kakasaheb Dixit Diary

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Wed, 18 Jul 2012 05:53:00 +0000

Previous Posts in this Series:

Introduction, History and Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

We shall now be reading two more instances of history as noted by Shri. Kakasaheb Dixit.

Chapter 6 - Kakasaheb Dixit Diary

Once Shankar Rao came to Shirdi, when I (Kakasaheb Dixit) was also present. Lord Sai Baba asked him for Rs. 16 as dakshina. He did not have that much money and did not disclose this fact to Him. He was very sorry that he could not give dakshina to Lord Baba though He asked directly. Thinking about this, he returned to his town.

On his another visit, Lord Baba asked Rs. 32 as dakshina from him. He again could not give what Lord Baba asked for and felt very sorry. This matter was made known to me. I laughed and said, “When Lord Baba asked for money, you could have told him that you don’t have it. Why did you keep silent?” Shankar Rao assured that when he was asked for dakshina, he will give this reply to Lord Baba.

When we went to Masjid together, Lord Baba asked him Rs. 64 as dakshina. We both said, “How can we have such a huge amount of money?” Lord Baba answered, “If you don’t have, then ask others and get it”.

Chapter 5 - Kakasaheb Dixit Diary

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Sat, 14 Jul 2012 23:56:00 +0000

Previous Posts in this Series:

Introduction, History and Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

More and more interesting stories of Lord Sai Baba are coming up as we are proceeding with this incredible treasure called Kakasaheb Dixit Diary.

Chapter 5 - Kakasaheb Dixit Diary

Shri. S.B.Naachne was working as a treasury master at Dahanu in the year 1914. Shri. Fanse was an employee at his work place who was suffering from mental disorder. Once Shri. Naachne was praying to Lord Sai Baba in his shrine which was in kitchen, suddenly he heard a loud noise. He saw Fanse standing there. Forcibly he came near Naachne and squeezed his neck. Further he advanced towards him to suck blood from his neck and tried to eat it. Naachne somehow took spoon which he used to offer water and thrust it in Fanse’s mouth. Fanse immediately closed his mouth and started eating his fingers. Since Fanse had pressed Naachne’s neck with great pressure, his nails were pierced causing intense bleeding in the neck. Due to this attack, Naachne fell down unconsciousness. When he regained consciousness, he saw his mother, younger brother and doctor around him. he came to know that his mother and brother came and saved him from this insane person at the nick of time. After few days, he went to Shirdi. When he went to Dwarkamai in the afternoon, Lord Sai Baba, pointing towards Naachne, said to Anna Chinchanikar, who was seated nearby Him, “If I had delayed a single minute that person would have killed this person. When his neck was being pressed tightly, I went and rescued him and thus averted his death. If I don’t save My children who else will”.

Chapter 4 - Kakasaheb Dixit Diary

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 15:10:00 +0000

Previous Posts in this Series:

Introduction, History and Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

With this, we are proceeding to the fourth chapter of Kakasaheb Dixit Diary.

Chapter 4 - Kakasaheb Dixit Diary

A devotee named Madhur Das came to Shirdi often. During one of such visits, he met Sagun Meru Naik who had a hotel in Shirdi where many pilgrims had their food. They both had good time chatting about matters of other people’s faults and affairs. Then Madhur Das went to Lord Sai Baba and sat near Him. Lord Baba asked him, “What was this Sagun saying?” Now Madhur immediately recollected what fault of his was caught by Lord Baba. He remembered that Lord Baba did not like when people blame others and talk about them for no reason. In this way, Lord Baba again reminded Madhur and us not to indulge ourselves in other’s matters because what is for us, is with us and what is for others, is with them.

Chapter 3 - Kakasaheb Dixit Diary

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 12:10:00 +0000

Previous Posts in this Series:

Introduction, History and Chapter 1

Chapter 2

The initiative to script this diary of Shri. Kakasaheb Dixit is getting very nice response from devotee readers. I am very much thankful to all who commented and send me e-mails personally congratulating for this venture. This is boosting my morale up and i am sure i will be able to provide this diary on a regular basis. Looking forward for your views regarding making an e-book of the same.

Chapter 3 - Kakasaheb Dixit Diary

One day, in afternoon, Lord Sai Baba asked me (Dixit) whether Pradhan has come. I answered that he has not come. I seeked permission from Lord Baba to send a message to Pradhan to come to Shirdi. Lord Baba answered in affirmative. So a message was sent to him through Bala Shimpi.

At the same time when Lord Baba enquired about Pradhan, he was with some person in a bar room in Bombay (now Mumbai) High Court and suddenly he fell unconscious. He was continuously chanting name of Lord Baba. His friend went to seek medical aid nearby and by the time he returned, Pradhan had regained consciousness. After some time, he returned his home in Santacruz by travelling in train without anybody’s help.

Next day, Bala Shimpi came from Shirdi and gave him Lord Baba’s Udi and a letter written by me regarding the message which Lord Baba wanted to convey. Pradhan was even told that suddenly Lord Baba remembered him. He came to know for what reason did Lord Baba asked about him. Thus this merciful God takes care of His devotees when they are in trouble and even though they are very far from Him.

Chapter 2 - Kakasaheb Dixit Diary

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Mon, 09 Jul 2012 12:14:00 +0000

In the last post, we read introduction and Chapter 1 of Kakasaheb Dixit Dairy. We shall now proceed to Chapter 2 of the same.

Once Lord Sai Baba appeared in Shama’s dream to inquire whether he had been to Govardana Das’s house. On receiving negative answer from Shama, He said, “Govardan’s mother is no more, so you should go and console him. Shama had no doubt in Lord Baba’s words, so he went to meet Govardan the next day at about 3 P.M. On reaching, he found that Lord Baba’s words in his dream were absolutely true. Govardan’s mother died the previous day and Shama was sent there timely.

A person named Dwarkanath come to Shirdi. He carried a letter for Lord Sai Baba which was given by his uncle to be given to Lord Baba. Dwarkanath’s uncle had described his daughter’s health issues in the letter. When the letter was handed over to Lord Baba, He whispered that she will pass away soon. I (Kakasaheb Dixit) heard these words distinctly, but others could not. Later on, when the letter was read out to Lord Baba, Dwarkanath asked Him, “When can I bring my wife here?” Lord Baba said, “She will herself come to my place after four days”. On fourth day, she passed away and Lord Baba’s words came true.

Chapter 1 - Kakasaheb Dixit Diary

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 06:23:00 +0000

The present work has taken shape by translating and scripting Telugu audio of Kakasaheb Dixit Diary into English script from www.saibaba.com. Taking up this task of translating the audio and scripting it in English was of highly tedious and lengthy nature. Still grace and will of Lord Sai Baba worked on because it was His direction to do so. On this occasion of Gurupoornima (2012) i am glad to share this treasure with Devotee Readers. Parts of this diary will be shared subsequently. Kindly visit our blog for full version of the diary.

This is how all things happened.

About one year ago (i.e in early 2011) while getting hooked with my daily emails, I came across with an email from a devotee with subject “Sai Darshan”. This email used to flash every Thursday containing interesting links, literature and bhajans of Lord Sai Baba. A link with Kakasaheb Dixit Diary was noticed and without any pause it was clicked to be opened. It was in audio form in telugu language, so it rather disappointed me as I could not understand this language and this treasure will go un-turned. The gems of history will remain buried. It took place in my system and remained there.

With passing time this treasure was completely forgotten. After one year, I again remembered and tried various methods to get it translated and get English script ready. A devotee’s name was then flashed in my mind and contacted her quickly. Luckily she knew this language and translated all twelve parts (herewith considered as chapters) within no time.

The unexpected helping hand of Sai sister Sujata K has given shape to a thought. I am thankful to her from the bottom of my heart. References from the book Baba's Vaani by Vinny Chitluri have been taken to check authenticity of the information and stories provided as it is also based on the same subject matter.

Every possible care has been taken to put forth facts and information in this book, still if they are shortcomings in it, kindly treat them as mere human nature and I seek apologies for the same.

Saiclopedia - Sai Temples Across the Globe by Shama Rana

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Sun, 27 May 2012 12:57:00 +0000

We know our Lord Sai Baba's name has reached many parts of the world. His deeds and sports are very inscrutable that His devotees, let him/her be in any corner of the world and in any state of mind, cant stop praying and remembering Him. Every human is bound by his/her nature, but if Sai devotees are taken apart, we see them speaking about His leelas without use of fullstops and commas. Even Lord Baba has come out from His Dwarkamai and settled His abode in many temples of the world. Always an uncertainty prevails if we travel to other city/country, whether we would get darshan of our Lord in this strange and new place. How will it be possible to reach Him? Who will help me? What will be temple timings? Many such questions crop up naturally due to this uncertainty. But now i guess this problem has been solved to a great extent by our Sai sister Shama Rana ji.

Incredible Shirdi Sai Baba Oil Paintings

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Wed, 02 May 2012 13:19:00 +0000

Lord Sai Baba has said in Sai Satcharitra that seeing His pictures will be equivalent to having His Saakshaat Darshan. It is very true. Even a small picture of Lord Baba kept at our work place, makes us feel His presence and calms our mind. We see many shops with portraits of Lord Baba in various sizes and wish that they can find some place in our home too. Each one of us, who follow Lord Baba bring His portraits for daily darshan. Now we can get such portraits in the form of oil paintings just the way we want. They would not only be antique art work but all paintings by members of NGO - Sai Sawaali are master pieces. They reveal moods of our Lord Baba and makes us feel His actual presence. Moreover these painting will fit your pockets very well as they are not too costly. Below are few pictures of painting and details about this NGO and also contact nos in case you wish to order one such painting for yourself.

Shirdi Sai Baba's Idol PranPratistha in Edmonton

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 19:58:00 +0000

We have seen Lord Sai Baba's name and glory reaching many parts of the world. In many different parts of the world He is getting enthroned. Such is the news which i am going to share with you all today.

As received news from one of my close acquaintance, i was informed of Shirdi Sai Baba's Idol PranPratistha in Edmonton. Please find herewith attached flyer for details so that devotees from Canada can make it for the event and get blessings from Lord Sai Baba.

Celebrating 125 Years of Nirvikalp Samadhi of Shirdi Sai Baba on December 10, 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 09:25:00 +0000

In chapter 43 & 44 of Shri Sai Satcharitra, Shri Hemadpant had written about the following incident, "Thirty two years before this, i.e., in 1886 A.D., Baba made an attempt to cross the border line. On a Margashirsha Pournima (Full moon) day, Baba suffered from a severe attack of asthma. To get rid of it Baba decided to take His prana high up and go into samadhi. He said to Bhagat Mhalasapti - "Protect My body for three days. If I return, it will be alright; if I do not, bury My body in that open land (pointing to it) and fix two flags there as a mark." Saying this, Baba fell down at about 10 P.M. His breathing stopped, as well as His pulse. It seemed as if His prana left the body. All the people including the villagers came there and wanted to hold an inquest and bury the body in the place pointed by Baba. But Mhalasapati prevented this. With Baba's body on his lap he sat full three days guarding it. After three days passed, Baba showed signs of life at 3 A.M. His breathing commenced, the abdomen began to move. His eyes opened and stretching His limbs, Baba returned to consciousness (life) again.

Lorriane Walshe-Ryan's "My Truth" Book and E-Book Released

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 07:32:00 +0000

Last year an experience was shared by Lorriane Walshe-Ryan and her friend Roshni ji on Devotee Experiences with Shirdi Sai Baba Blog. It described how Lord Sai Baba gave Lorraine ji His permission to continue with her third book. The second book's work is in progress. It contains experiences of devotees and it is being edited now. I guess readers must be knowing that she has written "I Am Always With You" book earlier. It is worth reading book for those who wish to know what relation prevails between Lord Sai Baba and His devotees. Every one of us share a unique and divine relation with Him. No matter of what age is our devotion, the relation matters. My belief is (gradually it is becoming stronger day by day) that since we were holding hands of Lord Sai Baba in our previous uncountable births, we are holding Them today and will be holding Them in future births too. Thus our relation is shared from past many births and will continue to be.

Shirdi Sai Baba Wallpapers and Screensaver for Free Download

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 13:20:00 +0000

Happy Diwali to all Dear Sai Readers!

I found this interesting and suitable Deepawali quote for you all

The sun does not shine there, nor do the moon and the stars, nor do lightning shine? All the lights of the world cannot be compared even to a ray of the inner light of the Self. Merge yourself in this light of lights and enjoy the supreme Deepavali.

This Diwali Shirdi Sai Baba Life Teachings and Stories team brings Shirdi Sai Baba Diwali Wallpapers and Screensaver for Download. The pictures were exclusively designed for us. I am really thankful for contributors. I hope you like it and looking forward for your comments below. Lord Sai Baba lighted lamps with water on Diwali day, so emphasis is given to lighting lamps in pictures.

Revered Shri. Suresh Chandra Gupta Merges with Shirdi Sai Baba

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 11:21:00 +0000

Writing on blogs is always a joyful act for me but today i have my eyes moist to write this blog post. Readers of the blog are familiar to legendary author Shri Suresh Chandra Gupta. His books were eye-opener in real sense. What actually is "devotion" has been defined by him. How and in what way a person, after treading on path of devotion has to act, can be learnt from his writings. In fact his contribution to Shirdi Sai Baba's awareness is commandable since he was the most instrumental person in construction of Shirdi Sai Baba temple of Lodhi Road in New Delhi, which is considered as first and foremost temple of Lord Shirdi Sai Baba in northern India. I have read and heard from many devotees that they found their real God/Guru in that temple.

Online Booking System For Darshan, Donation & Accommodation @ Shirdi is Now Available!

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 13:22:00 +0000

A devotee visiting Shirdi is excited and eager to meet Lord Sai Baba but at the same time, he is worried about good accommodation facility which would fit his wallet with basic amenities. Also an insurity prevails whether he would get good darshan at Samadhi Mandir, Dwarakamai, Chavadi and various other places due to ever increasing crowd at Shirdi. Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Trust, Shirdi do provide accommodation facilities at nominal rates, but procedure to get one is very lengthy. Though we are provided with online darshan of Samadhi Mandir, we have to stand in long queues for getting actual darshan.

Now we dont have to worry about any such queues as we can get online darshan passes and accommodation booked before leaving our homes straight away from our computer screens with launch of Sai Tech Project Online Booking System!

Sai Tech Project Details:

The Rs 22-crore 'Sai Tech Project' was inaugurated on July 15, 2011 by Maharashtra Speaker Dilip Valse Patil and state Agriculture Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, chairman of Shirdi Saibaba Trust Jayant Sasane told reporters.

Devotees of Sai Baba can now book online slots for darshan, reserve rooms and pay donations, thanks to a hi-tech project being developed by Pune-based Cognizant Technology Solutions, chairman of the temple trust said.

Gurupoornima Celebrations At Shirdi - 2011 Photos Gallery

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 03:14:00 +0000

We all celebrated Gurupoornima on July 15, 2011. It is the festival which was emphasized by Lord Sai Baba in His times and this tradition is followed even today in Shirdi. Thus Gurupoornima celebration is an integral part of celebrations at Shirdi in a year. During this festival, Shirdi Sansthan capture moments and upload on their official site. Pictures on the site are not in direct downloadable form. So here they are shared in direct downloadable form. Below the post, there is download link of zip file of all pictures for easy downloading. Here i am sharing only pictures of Lord Sai Baba. For other pictures of celebration, i request you to download the file from link given below.

Read more »

Briefs On Persons Who Lived With Sai Baba - Fragrance Of Sai Bhakti

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Sun, 12 Jun 2011 20:46:00 +0000

With last post m and n we completed a topic named "Sai Bhakti as advocated in ‘Shri Sai Satcharitra" from Part 4 of Chapter 5 - Sai Bhakti the incredible book Fragrance Of Sai Bhakti written by Shri. Suresh Chandra Gupta ji from Delhi, thus concluding whole chapter. Chapter 6 i.e. Sutras of Sai Bhakti has already been posted at the beginning, so now an annexure is being taken up here on "Briefs on Persons who lived with Sai Baba
and whose names appears in this book". One who wish to read Chapter 6 (and of course all other chapters) can browse the links given towards the end of this post. With this annexure we are completed with "Fragrance of Sai Bhakti" as written by Shri Suresh Chandra Gupta ji who wishes that devotee readers should share their valuable comments about the book. I have personally liked it much and hope the same is for you. I wish we get more such books from the author in future also.

Briefs on Persons who lived with Sai Baba and whose names appears in this book

1. Baija Bai Kote Patil (बायजा बाई कोते पाटिल ) - Baija Bai had extreme love and devotion towards Baba and she used to prepare food and take it to Baba. Baija Bai, wife of Appa Kote Patil and mother of Tatya Kote Patil used to refer to Shri Sainath as her brother. She had taken a vow that until Sai Baba had his food she won’t take food. Such was her devotion to Sai Baba that she would carry food in a basket and went looking for him to feed him.

2. Tatya Kote Patil (तात्या कोते पाटिल ) - Tatya Kote Patil had a unique relationship with Baba and was under his protection from the age of seven. As a child, Tatya addressed Baba as ‘Mama’ (Uncle or Mother’s brother). They would play and romp together, with Tatya climbing on Baba’s back and sitting in his lap. Being so close to Baba afforded him privileges that few had. Only he and Mahalsapati were allowed to sleep with Baba in the mosque and this he did for 14 years until his father died and family responsibilities compelled him to go home.

3. Mahalsapati (म्हलसापति ) - Mahalsapati was the priest of the Khandoba Temple on the edge of the village of Shirdi. When Sai Baba first arrived in Shirdi, it was he who hailed the young Fakir in the words, ‘Aao Sai!’ (Welcome Saint), thus giving him the beloved name of Sai. Sai Baba used to call Mahalsapati as‘Bhagat’.

4. MadhavRao Deshpande alias Shama (माधवराव देशपांडे /शामा ) - Shama was among Baba’s most intimate devotees. He was regarded as the ‘Nandi’ of Baba and acted like his personal secretary. Baba once told Shama that they had been together for 72 generations. His parents had moved to Shirdi from Nimon (five kilometres away) when he was only two. He became a school teacher in a room next door to the mosque.

Part 8 - Sai Bhakti - Fragrance Of Sai Bhakti

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Sat, 11 Jun 2011 02:29:00 +0000

Two points m and n from a topic named "Sai Bhakti as advocated in ‘Shri Sai Satcharitra" from Part 4 of Chapter 5 - Sai Bhakti the incredible book Fragrance Of Sai Bhakti written by Shri. Suresh Chandra Gupta ji from Delhi were posted. With three more points, we are concluding this chapter.

Part 8 - Sai Bhakti

Sai Bhakti as advocated in ‘Shri Sai Satcharitra’

(o) Baba’s ways of Teaching

To some he prescribed the Adhyatma Ramayan; to some the recitation of Dñyaneshwari; to some he suggested reciting the Harivarda and to some to read Gurucharitra.

He would keep some near him; ask some to go to Khandoba’s temple; to some he keenly suggested to study and memorise the Vishnu Sahasranama.

To some he suggested the Ram Vijaya; to some meditation; to some the power of the name of the Lord; to some he suggested the Chandogya Upanishad and Gita Rahasya and told them that through faith only they could understand the essence of all.

His ways of teaching were exceptional. Some were taught in a particular way, some in a different way. To some he taught directly and appeared in the dreams of others.

Many people from different castes came for his darshan and help. He even appeared in dreams to those who were fond of liquor.

He would sit on their chest pressing with his hands and feet and making them take a solemn vow never to drink again.

Like the pictures that are drawn by an astrologer on the walls of a house where a wedding is to take place he would write the mantra “Guru Brahma, Guru Vishnu” etc. in a dream vision on the walls of the house of another devotee.

If a person tried to practise the yogic aasana and also the difficult Hatha Yoga without Baba’s knowledge, Baba would come to know about it because of his extra-sensory powers and then he would rightly penalise.

He would catch hold of someone, whom he did not even know, and send a message: “Can you not sit quietly, and patiently eat your bread?” - Govind Raghunath Dabholkar alias Hemadpant (Chap. 19, Ovi 222-230)

To some he would give an ultimatum and tell him that: “I am a very strict person by nature. I will tell you mildly only once or twice and if inspite of that you don’t listen, at the end it will be very difficult for you. - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 19, Ovi 232)

I will try to tell once, to tell twice, but if a person does not care to listen to my words, even if he be my kith and kin, I will not hesitate to tear him apart and throw him away”. - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 19, Ovi 232)

i) On Enjoyment of Senses

“Before the mind, the intellect and other senses enjoy their objects, remember me first so that they become an offering to me, slowly.

“The senses can never remain without their objects; but if these objects are first offered to the Guru, the attachment for them will naturally vanish.

“If you desire anything, desire me only! If you are angry vent your anger on me only! Offer me your pride and obstinacy. Be devoted only to me.

0“Whenever desire, anger, pride arise strongly make me the object towards which to direct them.

“In this way, one by one, the Lord will help you in eradicating all the ‘Vrittis’. The Lord (Govinda) will certainly calm the strong waves of these three venomous qualities.

“In fact, this disturbed mental state would be absorbed in my form or would become one with me. A state of peace will be yours at my feet”. - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 24, Ovi 46-51)

“Such a person (ignorant and confused) is not fit for Self-knowledge. False knowledge will overpower him. For him there is nothing in this world and in the next. For ever and everywhere, he is miserable.

“There is no point in establishing one’s own school of thought. And there is no need to refute the thinking of others also. There is no need to debate and prove someone wrong. These are baseless efforts”. - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 2, Ovi 87-88)

A disciple should be modest, able, free from envy, unselfish or disinterested, always ready to serve the Guru, eager to have spiritual knowledge and of steadfast temperament.

He should have no hatred, nor engage in loquaciousness. These are the qualities required to please the Gururaya. - Govind Raghunath Dabholkar alias Hemadpant (Chap. 42, Ovi 124-125)

One whose conduct is always correct and good, who eats just enough to sustain his body, and is not attached to home or wife - such a person is blessed and a sage. - Govind Raghunath Dabholkar alias Hemadpant (Chap. 37, Ovi 90)

ii) On Fasting

“Food and the one who eats it are the embodiments of Vishnu. Fasting, austerities, unsullied food, going without any food or water - Why indulge in this? What is the need for us to practice fasting and austerities?” - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 32, Ovi 142-143)

You do not need ceremonies to complete the rituals, you do not need fasting to torture the body; you do not need to visit the tirthas. It is sufficient to listen to the story. - Govind Raghunath Dabholkar alias Hemadpant (Chap. 3, Ovi 182)

iii) Food to Hungry

“Oh mother! You fed me to-day, because of which I am full upto my throat. I was overcome with hunger and you satisfied me.

“You must act like this always. Truly only this will prove useful, ultimately. Sitting in the Masjid, I do not ever speak an untruth. This is the universal truth.

“Know that this is the kindness which I preach. Give food to the hungry first and then eat yourself. Remember this clearly in your mind”. - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 9, Ovi 120-122)

“When you sat down for your meals, you suddenly saw a dog come to the door, which was suffering from extreme hunger. I am one with that dog.

“Similarly, I am one with that pig bespattered with mud, which was also hungry and miserable”.

When she heard Baba’s words, the lady was very much surprised. Dogs, pigs, cats which wander - Are they one with Baba?

Sometimes I am a dog, sometimes a pig, sometimes I am a cow, sometimes a cat, sometimes an ant, a fly or fish. I move about in different forms.

“That person who sees me in all the creatures, you must understand is my beloved one.

Give up the belief in the two-fold nature, and worship me in this manner”. - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 9, Ovi 126-130)

“Why do you fret unnecessarily? Satisfying the hunger of this dog is the same as giving me appeasement. Bear this in mind.

“Isn’t this dog a living creature? All beings experience the same hunger. Though it is dumb and I can speak, is there any difference in the hunger that both experience?

“He who feeds those distressed by hunger really serves me with food. Know this and regard it as an axiomatic truth”. - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 42, Ovi 103-105)

iv) Dancing

He (Baba) behaved ordinarily with all people, witnessed the dance and frolic of the Muralis, listened to the songs and ghazals, swaying to them (with great relish) but his inner state of samadhi was absolutely undisturbed. - Govind Raghunath Dabholkar alias Hemadpant (Chap. 4, Ovi 49)

Before moving into the Masjid, Baba stayed at the takia. He stayed there long, peacefully and untroubled by anyone.

Here, tying jingling bells around his feet, he would dance gracefully and sing melodiously with devotion to the accompaniment of a tambourine. - Govind Raghunath Dabholkar alias Hemadpant (Chap. 5, Ovi 99-100)

v) Advice to Kirtankars

Where are you going so dressed up? Baba asked Das Ganu. He replied: “I am going to perform kirtan”.

Baba said to him, further: “Why have you taken so much trouble over dressing up? Why do you have long coat, uparna and pheta? We do not need all these things.

“Take them off in front of me. Why burden your body with them?” As per his orders, he took them off and laid them at his feet. - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 15, Ovi 24-26)

vi) Reading of Books

Mere reading is a waste of time till the meaning is not experienced, for which the blessings of a Guru, who has the knowledge of the Brahman, is required. Mere bookish knowledge is futile. - Govind Raghunath Dabholkar alias Hemadpant (Chap. 21, Ovi 73)

Part 7 - Sai Bhakti - Fragrance Of Sai Bhakti

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 01:53:00 +0000

In last post, three more points j to l from a topic named "Sai Bhakti as advocated in ‘Shri Sai Satcharitra’" from Part 4 of Chapter 5 - Sai Bhakti the incredible book Fragrance Of Sai Bhakti written by Shri. Suresh Chandra Gupta ji from Delhi were discussed. Below are two more such points which are equally interesting.

Part 7 - Sai Bhakti

Sai Bhakti as advocated in ‘Shri Sai Satcharitra’

(m) Baba’s Assurances

“Without some special bonds of past lives no one comes to us. May it be a dog, a pig or a fly. So do not repulse anybody. - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 3, Ovi 81)

“How will anyone be longing for worldly pleasures, who thinks of my name, worships me, studies me, whose holy readings are of me, who meditates on me and who continuously thinks of me? - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 3, Ovi 16)

“I am under my devotees’ obligations. I am always beside them (standing close). I am always hungry for love. I am at their beck and call”. - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 11, Ovi 76)

Hold on to the good company of the Guru and the virtuous. Disentangle from the worldly ties. Definitely herein is your fulfillment. Have no doubts. - Govind Raghunath Dabholkar alias Hemadpant (Chap. 10, Ovi 134)

“He, who constantly remembers me after completely surrendering to me, I owe him a debt which I will repay by uplifting him.

“I am in bondage to him who does not eat or drink anything without offering it to me first and who constantly meditates upon me. I act according to his wishes.

“I constantly care for him who only longs for me and for him no one is equal to me. I act according to his wishes.

“He who has turned away from mother, father, kinsmen, friends and relatives, wife and son alone is attached to my feet”. - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 44, Ovi 151-154)

“He who abandons all pride, is ever grateful to Him (God), and places all his burden on Him (God), will achieve his objective”. - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 34, Ovi 131)

“None can come here unless I bring him”, was what Baba said.

“Unless I so desire who can cross his threshold? Who will get ‘darshan’ by his own volition or come to Shirdi?” - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 35, Ovi 153-154)

“If anyone has given me one rupee as ‘dakshina’, I have to give ten times more in return, accurately.

“I never take anything from anyone gratis. I do not ask all and sundry. I only take dakshina from those to whom the Fakir points out. “The Fakir asks from only those to whom He is indebted.” - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 35, Ovi 129-131)

He will keep his hand of re-assurance on your head; will ward off bad omens; burn up heaps of all sins and anoint the forehead with ‘Udi’. - Govind Raghunath Dabholkar alias Hemadpant (Chap. 17, Ovi 144)

“In the home of my devotees, food and clothing will never be lacking”. This is an assurance given by Shri Sai and the devotees were aware of this.

“Those who whole-heartedly worship me and lovingly always serve me, I look after their well-being. This I know to be my motto.”

This is also the affirmation of the Bhagvat Gita. Sai says to accept this as universal truth: “There will never be shortage of food and clothing. Therefore do not hanker after them.” - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 6, Ovi 33-35)

“Even when I pass away, believe in my words. From my tomb my bones will give you assurance.

“Not only I, but my tomb would be speaking, moving and communicating with those who surrender themselves whole heartedly to me.

“Do not worry that I shall be hidden from your eyes. You will hear my bones speak and discuss your welfare.

“Always remember me only. Believe in me heart and soul. Pray without selfish motives and you will attain your welfare”. - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 25, Ovi 105-108)

Part 6 - Sai Bhakti - Fragrance Of Sai Bhakti

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 20:03:00 +0000

Three more interesting points from g to i from a topic named "Sai Bhakti as advocated in ‘Shri Sai Satcharitra’" from Part 4 of Chapter 5 - Sai Bhakti the incredible book Fragrance Of Sai Bhakti written by Shri. Suresh Chandra Gupta ji from Delhi were shared in last post. Further three are forwarded here.

Part 6 - Sai Bhakti

Sai Bhakti as advocated in ‘Shri Sai Satcharitra’

(j) Satsang

Such is the greatness of ‘Satsang’ that it completely destroys bodily pride or ego. Therefore, there is no other means than Satsang.

Always do Satsang. All other means have some faults. Only Satsang is flawless. It is pure in every way.
Satsang destroys the bodily attachments. Such is the power of its strength. Once there is firm faith in it, there is truly liberation from the mundane world. - Govind Raghunath Dabholkar alias Hemadpant (Chap. 10, Ovi 141-143)

Because of Satsang bodily attachment is destroyed. It is Satsang that breaks the cycle of birth and death. It is Satsang that gains the treasure of supreme energy and separates one from the worldly ties immediately.

To attain the highest state, the company of a Saint is purifying. If one surrenders completely, our permanent peace is assured. - Govind Raghunath Dabholkar alias Hemadpant (Chap. 10, Ovi 148-149)

If one is able to get the company of a Saint, even for a moment, the wayward mind becomes steady and immediately settles at the feet of God from where it is difficult to turn back. - Govind Raghunath Dabholkar alias Hemadpant (Chap. 18, Ovi 34)

Part 5 - Sai Bhakti - Fragrance Of Sai Bhakti

noreply@blogger.com (Hetal Patil Rawat) — Sat, 04 Jun 2011 20:44:00 +0000

In last post we had seen points d-f from a topic named "Sai Bhakti as advocated in ‘Shri Sai Satcharitra’" from Part 4 of Chapter 5 - Sai Bhakti the incredible book Fragrance Of Sai Bhakti written by Shri. Suresh Chandra Gupta ji from Delhi. Today we shall see further more points.

Part 5 - Sai Bhakti

Sai Bhakti as advocated in ‘Shri Sai Satcharitra’

(g) Surrender

“He whose self is pervading in the universe, I am part and parcel of Him. Surrender at the feet of Sai. This will mean MY service.

“To serve ME and to sing my praises, to surrender to ME completely will lead to union with ME. So says Krishna in the Bhagwat. - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 3, Ovi 104-105)

Surrender to Sai. God will bless you. The ardent desire to listen to his praises will arise. This is the easy means to God. - Govind Raghunath Dabholkar alias Hemadpant (Chap. 10, Ovi 133)

“Take my name and surrender to me” was told by him to everyone. But he asked those who wanted to know him to listen and meditate. - (Chap. 19, Ovi 220)

Discarding all pride, surrender to me who dwells in the heart. Ignorance will be destroyed immediately and there will be no need to listen to any instructions about knowledge. - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 44, Ovi 160)

A devotee should surrender unconditionally and observe the remarkable results of devotion. Each day will unfold a new miraculous deed of Sai. - Govind Raghunath Dabholkar alias Hemadpant (Chap. 19, Ovi 163)

Unless the false pride of the feeling ‘I am the doer, I alone am the enjoyer’ is left off, and one does not surrender to the Dweller in the Heart, one cannot attain self-liberation. - (Chap. 50, Ovi 87)

The one and only sure sign of the surrender at Sai’s feet is that the disciple becomes calm and peaceful and perfects his devotion with eagerness and joy. - Govind Raghunath Dabholkar alias Hemadpant (Chap. 46, Ovi 13)

“It is my promise to redeem the one who, with faith sings my praises, totally surrenders to me, remembers me constantly and meditates on me. - Shri Sai Baba (Chap. 3, Ovi 15)

He who surrenders to Sai, his ship will be able to cross the worldly ocean. - Govind Raghunath Dabholkar alias Hemadpant (Chap. 17, Ovi 114)

Therefore, the easy way out for the householder is to surrender his mind to the feet of Sai Then he will bless you. - Govind Raghunath Dabholkar alias Hemadpant (Chap. 10, Ovi 129)