Shirdi

Barry Pittard has written: “Some readers may be interested in unraveling the mass of Sathya Sai Baba’s own confusions and contradictions (e.g., with regard to dates and details of characteristics of himself as compared to Shirdi Sai Baba), concerning his extraordinary pronouncements”. The reference to the work of Brian Steel is most apt. This Australian scholar [...]

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CLICK HERE TO SEE THE FULL-SIZED IMAGES Photos of Bhagavan Sathya Sai Baba and Sri Shirdi Sai Baba reflect the comparative spirituality of the two, whereby one is seen to be a renunciant, the other revels in opulence and his own glory. No wonder that Sathya Sai Baba tried to usurp the respected name of Sai [...]

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Sirdi Baba was a celibate saint who lived by the begging bowl. He constantly remembered God and enjoyed happiness in solitude. The most important thing in his divine personality that attracted all, was the light in his eyes. The divine Bliss of becoming one with God emerged through his eyes. These two lustrous objects in his body were the source of inspiration, care, mercy and ‘Mukti’ (illumination) for all those who surrendered to him. Baba saw no difference in caste or people.Baba disliked honour (social status) which to him was only a need of the ego. Baba would accept any small thing offered with love and devotion but if the same was offered with pride, he would reject it. Baba said, ‘If you want anything, beg of the Lord, leave worldly honour’. He himself was very humble. Using simple stories and clothing great truths in simple parables as did Jesus Christ, Baba was able to create a pyramid of perceptions in the listener – his words were always pregnant with meaning

Shirdi Sai Baba BhajansSai Baba of Shirdi is among the epoch making spiritual gurus of India, who has a magnetic pull from the devotees haling from across the world. With his amazing miraculous powers Sai Baba has millions of devotees that pray to him for his blessings. There are several sweet and endearing bhajans that sung in praise of Sai Baba. Songs, bhajans, prayers being a melodious way to feel closer to someone, has effected into making of several bhajans that are sung and played all across the world by the Sai Baba devotees.In fact audio-visual media has played a great role in popularizing such bhajans on Sai Baba of Shirdi. In the year 1977 a movie on Sai Baba was produced named Shirdi Ke Sai Baba. The movie has some great bhajans and religious songs such as "sai baaba bolo dagmag jag yeh dole" and "sainaath tere hazaaron haath sainaath tere hazaaron haath". Indian Television serial producers have also come with serial on the life of Sai Baba with many popular bhajans attracti

Sai Museum ShirdiSai Museum in Shirdi is a rich repository of all things associated with Shri Saibaba. Kept under the maintenance of Saibaba Sansthan of Shirdi, the Museum has some of the most intimate and personal belongings of the Spiritual Guru Saibaba. Devotees from across the world visit this Museum that is a part of Dwarkamai.The Sai Museum has carefully kept many of the things that were close to this charismatic Guru. It has Saibaba's padukas or footwear, which are revered by the Sai devotees. The place also has some of the coins that Saibaba gave to Malsapati, the priest of Khandoba. The museum preserves the two utensils that were used to feed people in hordes. In these utensils one was small and other big. The smaller one was used to provide food for 50 people while the big one was used to serve a group of 100 people.The sai museum also has a Grinding Mill that was used by Saibaba. This grinding mill has its own significance and is symbolic of the deep-seated philosophy of Sa

Shirdi - Sai BabaSamadhi Mandir :The Mandir is built with stones and Baba's Samadhi is built with white marble stones. A railing is built in marble around the Samadhi and is full of ornamental decorations. In front of the Samadhi are two silver pillars full of decorative designs. Just behind the Samadhi is Sai Baba's marvelous statue made of Italian marble which shows him seated on a throne. This idol was made by late Balaji Vasant.This statue was installed on 7th October 1954. Above the statue is an open, silver umbrella. The front of the Mandir has an assembly hall where about 600 devotees can be accomadated. Here is the show-case where various things handled by Baba are kept. On the first floor of the Mandir are pictures depicting the life of Baba.The routine of the temple starts at 5 o'clock in the morning with Bhoopali, a morning song, and closes at 10 o'clock in the night after Shejarati is sung. Only on three occasions the temple is kept open overnight .ie. on Gurupoornima,

Legacy of Sai Baba of ShirdiShri Saibaba is among the most influential spiritual gurus of India, who lived at a nondescript village of Shirdi in the state of Maharashtra। With his miraculous powers and captivating teachings he rules the heart of millions of his devotees, whose number is ever growing with each passing day.He is also among the most recognizable gurus whose image can be found throughout India, sometimes simply as a fashion statement or kept along as accessories। Worn as pendants and kept in lockets Saibaba makes his presence in all corners of India. He lived in the cusp of two centuries i.e., between 1838 and 1918. During this time Shri Saibaba made a great impact on the psyche of the people coming under his influence. With his simple and trite philosophy combined with his clairvoyant prowess, Saibaba's legacy is still on among his ever growing number of followers.Today, many religious teachers, groups and organizations promote his teachings and devotion to Sai। Sh

Miracles of Shirdi Sai बाबाSai Baba of Shirdi is an epitome of spiritual perfection and has been the guiding source for the mankind leading to salvation। As a spiritual guru and savior Shri Saibaba was no ordinary fakir but an avatar of high order. This was evident through his miracles and sayings that exhibited his purpose and intention for which he had come. He would often say, "My Leela is inscrutable". Saibaba's Leela's (miracles) were plenty and varied; here are a few of the miracles of Shirdi Saibaba, for his devotees and those interested in his philosophies.Baba's Leelas (Miracles)Lighting Lamps with WaterThis is among the earliest evidences of Saibaba's miracles। Baba was fond of lighting earthenware lamps in his masjid and other temples. For this he needed oil, which he got from the grocers of Shirdi, as small donations. But there came a time when the grocers got tired of giving him oil for free. And so they refused him any oil saying they had no fresh stocks.

Festivals in शिर्दीRamnavami : March/April Guru Purnima : July Shirdi Vijayadashmi (Sri Sai Punyatithi) October Festivals are great time to visit Shirdi of Saibaba। There are three major festivals that are held in Shirdi attracting thousands of devotees from across the world। The three major festivals celebrated at Shirdi are Ramnavami, Guru Purnima and Shirdi Vijayadashmi। All these festivals are celebrated all across India with equal zest and excitement but at Shirdi they have some other significance। All these festivals have their special distinction to them in the way they are celebrated in the other parts of India।रामनवमीRamanavi is one of the most important festivals celebrated with great excitement and fanfare। In the year 1897 Goplarao Gund proposed holding in Urus in name of Saibaba in gratitude of a child which he was granted after so many childless years. Saibaba conceded to celebrate his urus on the condition that it be cel

Excursions around ShirdiPilgrims visit Shirdi to make a mark in their spiritual journey. This holy land becomes a turning point in the lives of many devotees. Coming to this holy land is also an invitation to visit many religious sites that will interest you. About 75kms from Shirdi lies Nashik, another of major holy cities of India. You could also venture out to Ajanta and Ellora caves in Aurangabad about 144kms from Shirdi. There are many more significant religious and tourist destinations that will make your pilgrimage to Shirdi even more worth cherishing.SakoriClose to Shirdi is Sakori at a distance of about 5kms. Sakori is a very special place and popular among pilgrims for its Shri Upasani Kanyakumari Sthan. You can come here for peace and tranquility. Founded by Upasani Baba in 1917, Shri Upasani Kanyakumari Sthan reverberates with positive energy that can be felt by anyone. Shri Sai Baba took him as his Param Shishya, meaning Astute Devotee.ShanisinghnapurShanisinghnapur is a v

Shirdi Weather Climate: Dry Climate Temperature: Max - 400C, Min - 70C Monsoon: Scanty rains (June - August) Shirdi is located in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra on latitude 19°45' N and longitude 74°25' E. This pilgrim spot has mostly dry climate and during summers the temperature can be quite volatile. During summers you can expect the temperature shooting as high as 400C in the month of May. Winters can be cold in Shirdi, with January often showing temperature dipping to as low as 70C. Shirdi has the most pleasant weather during Monsoons, between June and August. It is the time when the surroundings of Shirdi turn fecund and greenery is all round. However, Monsoons in Shirdi are mild with scanty rains and hence they come as a pleasant respite that never gets ruined with excess of rains. In fact Monsoons are the best time when you can plan your visit to Shirdi. Amidst the drizzling you can pay homage to Saibaba and participate in all the activities without bothering about swea

Shirdi Sai Baba Bhajans Sai Baba of Shirdi is among the epoch making spiritual gurus of India, who has a magnetic pull from the devotees haling from across the world. With his amazing miraculous powers Sai Baba has millions of devotees that pray to him for his blessings. There are several sweet and endearing bhajans that sung in praise of Sai Baba. Songs, bhajans, prayers being a melodious way to feel closer to someone, has effected into making of several bhajans that are sung and played all across the world by the Sai Baba devotees. In fact audio-visual media has played a great role in popularizing such bhajans on Sai Baba of Shirdi. In the year 1977 a movie on Sai Baba was produced named Shirdi Ke Sai Baba. The movie has some great bhajans and religious songs such as "sai baaba bolo dagmag jag yeh dole" and "sainaath tere hazaaron haath sainaath tere hazaaron haath". Indian Television serial producers have also come with serial on the life of Sai Baba with many popular bhajans attrac

Sayings of Saibaba of Shirdi Saibaba of Shirdi is revered as one of the greatest saints that India ever had. Worshipped as God incarnate, Saibaba had his sole mission to give blessings to one and all. Beyond the narrow boundaries of religions, castes, creeds Saibaba preached the universal religion of love. The sayings of Saibaba have been a rich resource of solace among the distresses lot of mankind. Devoid of any metaphysical intricacies and high sounding words, the sayings of Saibaba struck an immediate chord with people. Here are the eleven sayings of Shri Saibaba of Shirdi that has been the guiding principles for millions of his devotees across the world. No harm shall befall him who sets his foot on the soil of Shirdi.He who cometh to My Samadhi, his sorrow and suffering shall cease. Though I be no more in flesh and blood, I shall ever protect My devotees. Trust in Me and your prayer shall be answered.Know that My Spirit is immortal.Know this for yourself. Show unto Me he who soug

Shirdi saibaba Picture 4 click the picture to see bigger imageI love our shirdi sai baba so much because in mordern days very few Gurus are so humble as him....Look at what baba to his devotees " "Slave of slaves I am your debtor, I am satisfied at your darshan. It is a great favour that I saw your feet. I am an insect . I consider Myself blessed thereby". " Theres no other saint who is so humble to say that he is satisfied when a devotee comes to see him. Thats how much sai loves a true devotee - VenkatBaba says , "If you spread your palms with devotion before Me, I am immediately with you, day and night. Though, I am here bodily, still I know what you do; beyond the saven seas. Go wherever you will, over the wide world, I am with you. My abode is in your heart and I am within you. Always worship Me, Who is seated in your heart, as well as, in the hearts of all beings, Blessed and fortunate, ind

shirdi saibaba smiling pictureclick the picture to see bigger imageUdi It is well-known that Baba took Dakshina from all, and out of the amount thus collected, He spent a lot on charity and purchased fuel with the balance left with Him. This fuel He threw in the Dhuni - the sacred fire, which he kept ever burning. The ash from this fire was called Udi and it was freely distributed to the devotees at the time of their departure from Shirdi.He gave Udi as Prasad, besmeared some of it on the Bhaktas' foreheads and placed His boon-conferring hand on their heads. When Baba was in a cheerful mood, He used to sing merrily. One such song was about Udi. The burden of the Udi song was this,"Oh, playful Rama, come, come, and bring with you sacks of Udi." Baba used to sing in very clear and sweet tones.http://www.starsai.com/

shirdi samadhi mandhir picture 2Characteristic of Shirdi Pilgrimage One special peculiarity of Shirdi-pilgrimage was this, that none could leave Shirdi, without Baba's permission; and if he did, he invited untold sufferings, but if any one was asked to quit Shirdi, he could stay there no longer. Baba gave certain suggestions or hints, when Bhaktas went to bid good-bye and take leave. These suggestions had to be followed. If they were not followed or were departed from, accidents were sure to befall them, who acted contrary to Baba's directions. We give below a few instances.www.starsai.com/

Shirdi saibaba black and white paintingclick the picture to see bigger image"This is our Dwarakamayi , where you are sitting. She wards off all dangers and anxieties of the children, who sit on her lap. This Masjidmayi (its presiding Deity) is very merciful, she is the mother of the simple devotees, whom she will save in calamities. Once a person sits on her lap, all his troubles are over. He, who rests in her shade, gets Bliss". Then Baba gave him Udi , and placed His protecting hand on his head. When Balasaheb was about to depart, He again said- "Do you know the "Lamba Bava" (long gentleman), Viz. serpent?" And then closing the left arm like fist He brought it near the right elbow, and moving His left arm like the hood of a serpent, He said- "He is so terrible, but what can he do to the children of Dwarakamayi: When the Dwarakamayi (its presiding deity) protects, what can the serpent do?"http://www.starsai.com/

shirdi samadhi mandhir picture Motherly Love of Sai Baba Everybody knows how a cow loves her infant calf. Her udder is always full and when the calf wants milk and dashes at the udder, out comes the milk in an unceasing flow. Similarly a human mother knows the wants of her child and feeds it, at her breast in time. In case of dressing and adorning the child, the mother takes particular care to see that this is well done. The child knows or cares nothing about this, but the mother’s joy knows no bounds, when she sees her child beautifully dressed and adorned. The love of mother is peculiar, extraordinary and disinterested, and has no parallel. Sadgurus feel this motherly love towards their disciples. Sai Baba had this same love towards me.http://www.starsai.com/

Shirdi Sai baba picture 5How can he, who is himself devoid of self-realization, give it to the disciples? A Sadguru does not, even in his dream, expect any service or profit from his disciples . On the contrary he wishes to serve them. He does not think that he is great and the disciple small. Not only he loves him as his son but regards him as equal to himself or as Brahma. The main characteristic of a Sadguru is that he is the abode of peace. He is never restless nor ruffled. He has no pride of his learning. The poor and the rich, the small and the great, are the same to him.http://www.starsai.com/

Shirdi Sai baba picture 4Consecrated Rupee At another time Captain Hate wished that he should have in his house a coin of rupee consecrated by Baba with His touch. He came across a friend who was bound for Shirdi. With him Hate sent his rupee. The friend went to Shirdi and after the usual saluation gave first his Dakshina which Baba pocketed. Then he gave Hate's rupee, which Baba took in His hand and began to stare at it. He held it in front, tossed it up with His right thumb and played with it. Then He said to the friend, "Return this to its owner with the Prasad of Udi , tell him that I want nothing from him, ask him to live in peace and contentment." The friend returned to Gwalior, handed over the consecrated rupee to Hate, and told him all the h0appened at Shirdi . This time Hate was much pleased and real

shirdi saibaba picture 3(3) Captain Hate Captain Hate, who was staying in Bikaner, was a great devotee of Baba. Once Baba appeared to him in his dream and said "Did you forget Me?" Hate then immediately held Baba's Feet and replied, "If a child forgets his mother, how could it be saved?" Then Hate went into the garden and took out fresh walpapadi vegetables, and arranging 'shidha' (ghee, wheat-flour and dal etc.) and Dakshina, was about to offer all this to Baba when he was awakened and came to know that the whole thing was a dream. Then he decided to send all these things to Baba at Shirdi.http://www.starsai.com/

Shirdi saibaba Jayakars painting 2click the picture to see bigger imageHe told them to leave off all cleverness and always remember "Sai" "Sai". "If you did that" He said, "all your shackles would be removed and you would be free". Sitting between five fires, sacrifices, chantings , eight-fold Yoga are possible for the Brahmins only. They are of no use to the other classes. The function of the mind is to think, it cannot remain for a minute without thinking. If you give it a Sense-object, it will think about it. If you give it to a Guru, it will think about Guru. You have heard most attentively the greatness, grandeur of Sai .http://www.starsai.com/

shirdi saibaba original photographclick the picture to see bigger imageThe Easiest Path Hearing the stories of the Saints and Being in their Company: Though Sai Baba acted outwardly like an ordinary man, His actions showed extraordinary intelligence and skill. Whatever He did, was done for the good of His devotees. He never prescribed any asan, regulation of breathing or any rites to His Bhaktas, nor did He blow any mantra into their ears.http://www.starsai.com/

shirdi saibaba yantraclick the picture to see bigger imageBaba's Humility Lord or Bhagwan is said to have six qualities, viz. (1) Fame, (2) Wealth, (3) Non-attachment, (4) Knowledge, (5) Grandeur, and (6) Generosity. Baba had all these in Him. He incarnated in flesh for the sake of the Bhaktas. Wonderful was His grace and kindness!http://www.starsai.com/

shirdi saibaba picture 2click the picture to see bigger imageIt is not intelligence, but love, that inspires real poetry as such. Real poetry is the manifestation of true love; and this can be seen and appreciated by intelligent listeners. Collection of these folk songs is desirable and Baba willing, some fortunate devotee may undertake the task of collecting and publishing these folk-songs, either in the Sai Leela magazine or separately in a book-form.www.starsai.com

shirdi saibaba blessingclick the picture to see bigger imageBlessed are the people of Shirdi , who worshipped Sai as their God. While eating, drinking, working in their backyards and fields and doing various household works, they always remembered Sai and sang His glory .www.starsai.com

Shirdi saibaba Statueclick the picture to see bigger imageHe saw Divinity in all beings. Friends and foes were alike to Him. Disinterested and equal-balanced, He obliged the evil-doers. He was the same in prosperity and adversity. No doubt, ever touched Him. Though He possessed the human body, He was not in the least attached to His body or house. Though He looked embodied, He was really disembodied, i.e., free in this every life.www.starsai.com

shirdi saibaba samathi picture 2click the picture to see bigger imageThere are various Gurus imparting to us various kinds of wordly knowledge, but he, who fixes us in our Nature (Self) and carries us beyond the ocean of worldly existence, is the Sadguru . Sai Baba was such a Sadguru. His greatness is undescribable. If anybody went to take His darshana, he, without being asked, would give every detail of his past, present and future life.www.starsai.com

shirdi sai baba blessingclick the picture to see bigger imageSai Baba as Sadguru There are Gurus and Gurus. There are many so-called Gurus, who go about from house to house with cymbals and veena in their hands, and make a show of their spirtituality. They blow mantras into the ears of their disciples and extract money from them. They profess to teach piety and religion to their disciples, but are themselves impious and irreligious. Sai Baba never thought of making the least show of His worth (piety). Body-consciousness, He had none, but He had great love for the disciples. There are two kinds of Gurus (1) 'Niyat' (appointed or fixed) and (2) 'Aniyat' unappointed or general). The latter by their advice develop the good qualities in us, purify our hearts and set us on the path of salvation; but contact wit

shirdi saibaba picture 1click the picture to see bigger imageBaba's Mission and Advice Saint Ramadas (1608-1681) flourished in the 17th century, and fulfilled to a great extent his mission of protecting cows and Brahmins against the Yavanas (Mahomedans), but within two centuries after him, the split between the two communities -- Hindus and Mahomedans widened again, and Sai Baba came to bridge the gulf. His constant advice to all was to this effect. "Rama (the God of the Hindus) and Rahim (the God of the Mahomedans) were one and the same; there was not the slightest difference between them; then why should their devotees and quarrel among themselves? You ignorant folk, children, join hands and bring both the communities together, act sanely and thus you will gain your object of national unity. It is not good

Shirdi saibaba Photographclick the picture to see bigger imageBabas Stay in Shirdi and Probable Birth-date None knew or knows the parents and exact birth-date of Sai Baba ; but it can be approximately determined by His stay in Shirdi. Baba first came to Shirdi , when he was a young lad of sixteen and stayed there for three years. Then all of a sudden He disappeared for some time. After some time, He reappeared in the Nizam state near Aurangabad, and again came to Shirdi with the marriage-party of Chand Patil, when He was twenty years old. Since then, He stayed in Shirdi continuously for a period of sixty years, after which Baba took His Maha-Samadhi in the year 1918. From this we can say that the year of Baba's birth is approximately 1838 A.D.www.starsai.com

Sai Satcharita - Chapter ISalutations -- The Story of Grinding Wheat and Its Philosophical Significance.According to the ancient and revered custom, Hemadpant begins the work, Sai Satcharitra, with various salutations.First, he makes obeisance to the God Ganesha to remove all obstacles and make the work a success and says that Shri Sai is the God Ganesha.Then, to the Goddess Saraswati to inspire him to write out the work and says that Shri Sai is one with this Goddess and that He is Himself singing His own life.Then, to the Gods; Brahma, Vishnu and Shankar - the Creating, Preserving and Destroying Deities respectively; and says that Sainath is one with them and He as the great Teacher, will carry us across the River of Worldly Existence.Then, to his tutelary Deity Narayan Adinath who manifested himself in Konkan - the land reclaimed by Parashurama, (Rama in the Hindi version) from the sea; and to the Adi (Original) Purusha of the family.Then, to the Bharadwaja Muni, into whose gotra (c

Sai Satcharita - Chapter IIObject of Writing the Work - Incapacity and Boldness in the Undertaking - Hot Discussion - Conferring Significant and Prophetic Title of Hemadpant - Necessity of a Guru.In the last Chapter, the author mentioned in the original Marathi book that he would state the reason that led him to undertake the work, and the persons qualified to read the same and such other points. Now in this chapter, he starts to tell the same.Object of Writing the WorkIn the first chapter, I described Sai Baba’s miracle of checking and destroying the epidemic of Cholera by grinding wheat and throwing the flour, on the outskirts of the village. I heard other miracles of Sai Baba to my great delight, and this delight burst forth into this poetic work. I also thought, that the description of these grand miracles of Sai Baba would be interesting, and instructive to His devotees; and would remove their sins, and so I began to write the sacred life and teachings of Sai Baba. The life of t

Sai Satcharita - Chapter IIISai Baba’s Sanction and Promise - Assignment of Work to Devotees - Baba’s Stories as Beacon - Light - His Motherly Love - Rohilla’s Story - His sweet and Nectar - like Words.Sai Baba’s Sanction and PromiseAs described in the previous chapter, Sai Baba gave His complete assent to the writing of the Sat-Charita and said, "I fully agree with you regarding the writing of Sat Charita. You do your duty, don’t be afraid in the least, steady your mind and have faith in My words. If My Leelas are written, the Avidya (nescience) will vanish and if they are attentively, and devoutly listened to, the consciousness of the worldly existence will abate, and strong waves of devotion, and love will rise up and if one dives deep into My Leelas, he would get precious jewels of knowledge."Hearing this, author was much pleased, and he at once became fearless and confident, and thought that work was bound to be a success. Then turning to Shama (Madhavrao Deshpande) Sai

Sai Satcharita - Chapter IVSai Baba’S FIRST ADVENT IN ShirdiMission of the saints - Shirdi a Holy Tirth - Personality of Sai Baba - Dictum of Goulibuva - Appearance of Vithal - Kshirsagar’s Story - Das Ganu’s Bath in Prayag - Immaculate Conception of Sai Baba and His First Advent in Shirdi - Three Wadas.In the last chapter, I described the circumstances, which led me to write Sai-Sat-Charita. Let me now describe the first advent of Sai Baba in Shirdi.Mission of the saintsLord Krishna says in Bhagvadgita (Chapter IV, 7-8) that "Whenever there is a decay of Dharma (righteousness) and an ascendancy of unrighteousness, I manifest Myself; and for the protection of the virtuous, the destruction of the vicious and for the establishment of righteousness, I manifest Myself in age after age".This is the mission of Lord, and the Sages and saints, Who are His representatives and who appear here at proper times, help in their own way to fulfil that mission. For instance, when the twice born,

Sai Satcharita - Chapter VBaba’s Return with Chand Patil’s Marriage - party - Welcomed and Addressed as "Sai" - Contact with Other saints - His Dress and Daily Routine - The Story of the Padukas - Wrestling Bout with Mohdin and Change in Life - Turning Water into Oil - The Pseudo - Guru Javhar Ali.Return with Chand Patil’s Marriage - PartyAs hinted in the last Chapter, I shall now describe first how Sai Baba returned to Shirdi after His disappearance.There lived in the Aurangabad District (Nizam State), in a village called Dhoop, a well-to-do Mahomedan gentleman by name Chand Patil. While he was making a trip to Aurangabad, he lost his mare. For two long months, he made a diligent search but could get no trace of the lost mare. After being disappointed, he returned from Aurangabad with the saddle on his back. After travelling four Koss and a half, he came, on the way, to a mango tree under the foot of which sat a RATNA (queer fellow). He had a cap on His head, wore Kafni (long ro

Sai Satcharita - Chapter VIRAMA-NAVAMI FESTIVAL AND MASJID REPAIRSEfficacy of the Touch of Guru’s Hand - Rama-Navami Festival - Its Origin, Transformation etc. Repairs to the Masjid.Before describing Rama-Navami Festival and Masjid Repairs, the author makes some preliminary remarks about Sad-Guru as follows: -Efficacy of the Touch of Guru’s HandWhere Real or Sadguru is the helmsman, he is sure to carry us safely and easily beyond the worldly ocean. The word Sadguru brings to mind Sai Baba. He appears to me, as if standing before me, and applying Udi (scared ashes) to my forehead and placing his hand of blessing on my head. Then joy fills my heart and love overflows through my eyes. Wonderful is the power of the touch of Guru’s hand. The subtle-body (consisting of thoughts and desires), which cannot be burnt by the world dissolving fire, is destroyed by the mere touch of the Guru’s hand, and the sins of many past births are cleaned and washed away. Even the speech of those, whos

Sai Satcharita - Chapter VIIWonderful Incarnation - Behaviour of Sai Baba - His Yoga Practices - His All-pervasiveness - Leper Devotee’s service - Master Khaparde’s Plague-case - Going to Pandharpur.Wonderful IncarnationSai Baba knew all Yogic Practices. He was well-versed in the six processes including Dhauti (Stomach-cleaning by a moistened piece of linen 3" in breadth and 22 1/2" in length), Khandayoga, i.e., separating His limbs and joining them again, and Samadhi, etc. If you think that He was a Hindu, He looked like a Yavan. If you think Him to be a Yavan, He looked like a pious Hindu. No one definitely knew whether He was a Hindu or a Mahomedan. He celebrated the Hindu festival of Rama-Navami with all due formalities, and at the same time permitted the ‘Sandal’ procession of the Mahomedans. He encouraged wrestling bouts in this festival, and gave good prizes to winners.When the Gokul Ashtami came, He got the ‘Gopal-Kala’ ceremony duly performed and on Id festivals, H

Sai Satcharita - Chapter VIIIImportance of Human Birth-Sai Baba Begging Food - Bayajabai's Service - Sai Baba's Dormitory - His Affection for Khushalchand.As hinted in the last Chapter, Hemadpant now explains at length, in his preliminary remarks, on the importance of human birth; and then proceeds to relate how Sai Baba begged His food, how Bayajabai served Him, how He slept in the Masjid with Tatya Kote Patil and Mhalsapati and how He loved Khushalchand of Rahata.Importance of Human BirthIn this wonderful universe, God has created billions (84 lacs according to Hindusastra calculation) of creatures or beings (including Gods, demigods, insects, beasts and men) inhabiting heaven, hell, earth, ocean, sky and other intermediate regions. Of these, those creatures or souls, whose merits preponderate, go to heaven and live there till they enjoy the fruits of their actions, and when this is done, they are cast down while those souls, whose sins or demerits preponderate, go down to hell,

Sai Satcharita - Chapter IXEffect of compliance and Non-compliance with Baba's Orders at the Time of Taking Leave - A few Instances - Mendicancy and Its Necessity - Devotees' (Tarkhad family's) Experiences - Baba fed sumptuously - How?At the end of the last chapter, it was barely stated that the Bhaktas, who obeyed Baba's orders at the time of taking leave, fared well and those, who disobeyed them, suffered many a mishap. This statement will be amplified and illustrated, with a few striking instances; and by other matters dealt with in this Chapter.Characteristic of Shirdi - PilgrimageOne special peculiarity of Shirdi-pilgrimage was this, that none could leave Shirdi, without Baba's permission; and if he did, he invited untold sufferings, but if any one was asked to quit Shirdi, he could stay there no longer. Baba gave certain suggestions or hints, when Bhaktas went to bid good-bye and take leave. These suggestions had to be followed. If they were not followed or were departed fro

Sai Satcharita - Chapter XSai Baba's Mode of Life - His Sleeping - board - His Stay in Shirdi - His Teachings - His Humility - The Easiest Path.Remember Him (Sai Baba) always with love, for He was engrossed in doing good to all, and always abided in His Self. To remember Him only is to solve the riddle of life and death. This is the best and easiest of Sadhanas, as it involves no expenditure. A little exertion here brings great rewards. So as long as our senses are sound, we should, minute my minute, practice this Sadhana. All other Gods are illusory ; Guru is the only God. If we believe in Sad-guru's holy feet, he can change our fortune for the better. If we serve Him nicely, we get rid of our Samsar. We need not study any philosophy like the Nyaya and the Mimansa. If we make Him our Helmsman, we can easily cross over the sea of all our pains and sorrows. As we trust the helmsman in crossing rivers and seas, so we have to trust our Sadguru in getting over the ocean of worldly existe

Sai Satcharita - Chapter XISai, as Sagun Brahman -- Dr. Pandit's Worship -- Haji Sidik Falke --Control over the ElementsLet us now, in this Chapter, describe the manifested (Sagun) Brahman Sai. How He was worshipped and how He controlled the elements.Sai as Sagun BrahmanThere are two aspects of God or Brahman : (1) the Unmanifested (Nirgun) and (2) the Manifested (Sagun). The Nirgun is formless, while the Sagun is with form, though both denote the same Brahman. Some prefer to worship the former, some the latter. As stated in the Gita (chapter XII) the worship of the latter is easy and preferable. As man has got a form (body, senses, etc.), it is natural and easy for him to worship the God with form. Our love and devotion do not develop unless we worship Sagun Brahman for a certain period of time, and as we advance; it leads us to the worship (meditation) of Nirgun Brahman. So let us start with Sagun worship. Image, altar, fire, light, sun, water, Brahman are the seven objects of worsh

Sai Satcharita - Chapter XIISai leelas - Experience of (1) Kaka Mahajani - (2) Dhumal Pleader - (3) Mrs. Nimonkar - (4) Moolay Shastri - (5) A Doctor Now let us see in this Chapter how devotees were received and treated by Baba.saints' MissionWe have seen before, that the purpose or object of Divine Incarnation is to protect the good and destory the wicked. But the mission of the saints is quite different. To them the good and the wicked are the same. First they feel for the evil-doers and set them on the right path. They are like the Agasti to destroy the Bhava-sagar (the ocean of wordly existence) or like the Sun to the darkness of ignorance. The Lord (God) dwells in the saints. In fact they are not different from Him. Our Sai is One of these, Who incarnated for the welfare of the devotees, Supreme in knowledge and surrounded with divine lustre, He loved all beings equally.He was unattached. Foes and friends, kings and paupers, were the same to Him. Hear His powers. For the sake of

Sai Satcharita - Chapter XIIIMore Sai Leelas - Diseases Cured - (1) bhimaji Patil - (2) Bala Shimpi - (3) Bapusaheb Booty - (4) Alandi Swami - (5) Kaka Mahajani - (6) Dastopant of Harda.The Inscrutable Power of MayaBaba's words were always short, pithy, deep, full of meaning, efficient and well-balanced. He was ever content and never cared for anything. He said, "Though I have become a Fakir, have no house or wife, and though leaving off all cares, I have stayed at one place, the inevitable Maya teases Me often. Though I forgot Myself I cannot forget Her. She always envelops Me.This Maya (illusive power) of the Lord (Shri Hari) teases God Brahma and others; then what to speak of a poor Fakir like Me? Those who take refuge in the Lord wil be freed from Her clutches with his grace".In such terms Baba spoke about the power of Maya. Lord Shri Krishna has said to Uddhava in the Bhagwat that the saints are His living forms; and see what Baba had said for the welfare of His devotees: "Those

Sai Satcharita - Chapter XIVRuttonji Wadia of Nanded - saint Moulisaheb - Dakshina Mimansa.In the last Chapter, we described how Baba's word and grace cured many incurable diseases. Now, we shall describe, how Baba blessed Mr. Ruttonji Wadia with an issue.The life of this saint is naturally sweet in and out. His various doings, eating, walking and His natural sayings are also sweet. His life is Bliss incarnate. Sai gave it out as a means of His devotee's remembrance to Him. He gave them various stories of duty and action, which ultimately led them to true religion. His object may be that people should live happily in this world, but they should be ever cautious and gain the object of their life, viz. self-realization. We get human body as a result of merits in past births and it is worth-while that with its aid, we should attain devotion and liberation in this life. So we should never be lazy, but always be on the alert to gain our end and aim of life.If you daily hear the Leelas (st

Sai Satcharita - Chapter XVNaradiya Kirtan - Paddhati - Mr. Cholkar's Sugarless Tea - Two Lizards.The readers may remember that mention was made in the 6th Chapter regarding the Rama-Navami Festival in shirdi; how the festival originated and how in the early years there was a great difficulty in getting a good Hardidas for performing Kirtan on that occasion, and how Baba permanently entrusted this function (Kirtan) to Dasganu permanently. Now in this Chapter we shall describe the manner in which Dasganu was performing the Kirtan.Naradiya Kirtan-PaddhatiGenerally our Haridasas, while performing the Kirtan, wear a gala and full dress. They put on a head-dress, either a pheta or a turban, a long flowing coat with a shirt inside, an uparane (short dhotar) on the shoulders and the usual long dhotar from the waist below. Dressed in this fashion for some Kirtan in the shirdi village, Dasganu once went to bow to Baba. Baba asked him - "Well, bridegroom! where are you going dressed so beautifu

Sai Satcharita - Chapter XVI & Chapter XVIIThese two Chapters relate the story of a rich gentleman, who wanted Brahma-Jnana, quickly from Sai Baba.PreliminaryThe last Chapter described how Mr. Cholkar's vow of small offering was completed and accepted. In that story, Sai Baba showed that He would accept with appreciation any small thing offered with love and devotion, but if the same thing was offered with pride and haughtiness, He would reject it. Being Himself full of Sat-Chit-Anand (Existence, Knowledge and Bliss) He did not care much for more outward formalities but if an offering was made in meek and humble spirit, the same was welcome and He accepted it with pleasure and avidity. In fact there is no person more liberal and benevolent than a SadGuru, like Sai Baba. He cannot be compared to the Chintamani jewel (the Philosopher's stone which satisfies desires), the Kalpataru (the Celestial Tree which fulfills our desires) or the the Kamadhenu (the Celestial Cow which yields what

Sai Satcharita - Chapter XVIII & Chapter XIXHow Hemadpant was Accepted and BlessedStories of Mr. Sathe and Mrs. Deshmukh - Encouraging Good Thoughts to Fruition-Variety in Upadesh-Teachings Readings Slander, and Remuneration for Labour.In the last two Chapters, Hemadpant described, how a rich gentleman, aspiring for quick Brahma-Jnana, was treated by Baba, and now in these two Chapters, he describes how Hemadpant, himself, was accepted and blessed by Baba, how Baba encouraged good throughts and fructified them; and gives His teachings regarding Self-improvement, slander and remuneration for labour.PreliminaryIt is a well-known fact, that the Sadguru looks first to the qualifications of his disciples; and then gives them suitable instructions, without unsettling their minds in the least, and leads them on towards the goal of self-realization. In this respect, some say that what the Sadguru teaches or instructs, should not be divulged to others. They think that their instructions, become

Sai Satcharita - Chapter XXDas Ganu's Problem Solved by Kaka's Maid-ServantIn this Chapter, Hemadpant describes, how Das Ganu's problem was solved by Kakasaheb Dixit's maid-servant.PreliminarySai (Lord) was originally formless. he assumed a form for the sake of Bhaktas. With the help of the actress Maya, He played the part of the Actor in the big drama of the universe. Let us remember and visualize Shri Sai. Let us go to shirdi, and see carefully the programmes, after the noon-Arati. After the Arati ceremony was over, Sai used to come out of the Masjid, and standing on its edge, distribute udi to the devotees with very kind and loving looks. The Bhaktas also got up with equal fervour, clasped His Feet, and standing and staring at Him, enjoyed the shower of Udi. Baba passed handfuls of Udi into the palms of the devotees and marked their foreheads with Udi with His fingers.The love He bore for them in His heart was boundless. Then He addressed the Bhaktas as follows:- "Oh Bhau, go to

Sai Satcharita - Chapter XXIStories of (1) V.H. Thakur (2) Anantrao Patankar and (3) Pandharpur Pleader.In this Chapter, Hemadpant relates the stories of Vinayak Harishchandra Thakur, B.A., Anantrao Patankar of Poona, and a pleader from Pandharpur. All these stories are very interesting which if very carefully read and grasped, will lead the readers on to the spiritual path.PreliminaryIt is a general rule, that it is our good luck in the form of accumulation of merits in past births, that enables us to seek the company of Saints and profit thereby. In illustration of this rule, Hemadpant gives his own instance. He was a resident Magistrate of Bandra, A suburb of Bombay, for many years. A famour Mahomedan Saint named Pir Moulana was living there and many Hindus, Parsis and many others who followed different religion used to go to him and take his darshan. His Mujavar (priest) by name Inus pressed Hemadpant many a time, night and day, for going to see him, but for some reason or other he

Sai Satcharita - Chapter XXIIRescues from Serpent-bites - (1) Balasaheb Mirikar (2) Bapusaheb Booty (3) Amir Shakkar (4) Hemadpant - Baba's Opinion Regarding Killing of Serpents.PreliminaryHow to meditate on Baba? No one has been able to fathom the nature or the form of the Almighty. Even the Vedas and the thousand-tongued Shesha are not able to describe it fully; but the devotees cannot but know and look at the form of the Lord, for they know that His Feet are the only means of their happiness. They know no other method of attaining the supreme goal of life, except meditating on the Holy Feet. Hemadpant suggests an easy way of devotion and meditation as follows:-As the dark fortnight of every month wears out gradually, the moonlight also wanes in the same degree and on the newmoon day, we do not see the moon at all, nor do we get her light. Therefore, when the bright fortnight begins, people are very anxious to see the moon.On the first day, the moon is not seen and on the second day

Sai Satcharita - Chapter XXIIIYoga and Onion - Shama Cured of Snake - Bite - Cholera Ordinance Broken - Ordeal of Guru-Bhakti.PreliminaryReally this Jiva (human soul) transcends the three qualities, viz. Sattwa, Rajas and Tamas, but being deluded by Maya, he forgets his nature which is 'Existence-knowledge-bliss', and thinks that he is the doer and enjoyer and thus entangles himself in endless miseries and does not know the way of deliverance. The only way of deliverance is Loving Devotion towards the Guru's feet. The great Player or Actor Lord Sai has delighted His Bhaktas and transformed them into Himself (His nature).We regard Sai Baba as an incarnation of God for reasons already stated, but He always said that He was an obedient servant of God. Though an incarnation He showed the people the way, how to behave satisfactorily and carry out the duties of their respective stations (Varnas) in this life. He never emulated others in any way, nor asked others to have something done for

Sai Satcharita - Chapter XXIVBaba's Wit and I lumour - Chanak Leela - (1) Hemadpant (2) Sudama (3) Anna Chinchanikar vs. Mavsibai.PreliminaryTo say that, we shall state such and such in the next or this Chapter, is a sort of egoism. Unless, we surrender our ego to the feet of our Sad-Guru, we will not succeed in our undertaking. If we become egoless, then our success is assured.By worshipping Sai Baba, we attain both the objects, worldly and spiritual, and are fixed in our true Nature, and get peace and happiness. Therefore, those who want to gain their welfare, should respectfully hear Sai Baba's Leelas or stories and meditate on them. If they do this, they will easily attain the object of their life and get Bliss.Generally, all people like wit and humour, but they do not like that jokes should be cut at their expense. But Baba's method was peculiar; when it was accompained with gestures, it was very interesting and instructive, and the people, therefore, did not mind, if they were

Sai Satcharita - Chapter XXVDamu Anna Kasar of Ahmednagar - (1) Speculations - (2) Amra-LeelaPreliminaryWe begin this Chapter with a bow with all our eight limbs to Sai Baba, Who is an ocean of mercy, the God incarnate, who is Para-Brahman and the great Yogeshwara (Lord of Yoga). Victory be unto Sai Baba, Who is the crest-jewel of the saints, who is the home of all auspicious things, who is our Atmaram (Dear Self), and who is the able refuge of the devotees. We prostrate ourselves before Him, Who has attained the aim and end of life.Sai Baba is always full of mercy. What is wanted on our part is whole-hearted devotion to Him. When a devotee has got firm faith and devotion, his wishes are soon fulfilled. When the desire arose in the mind of Hemadpant to write the life and Leelas of Sai Baba, He immediately got it written by him. When the order 'to keep the memos' was given, Hemadpant was inspired and his intellect got strength and boldness to undertake and finish the work. He was not,

Sai Satcharita - Chapter XXVIStories of (1) Bhakata Pant (2) Harishchandra Pitale and (3) Gopal Ambadekar.PreliminaryAll the things that we see in the universe are nothing but a play of Maya -- the creative power of the Lord. These things do not really exist. What really exists is the Real Absolute. Just as we mistake a rope of a garland or a stick for a serpent on account of darkness, we always see the phenomena, i.e. things as they outwardly appear, and not the Noumenon which underlies all the visible things. It is only the Sad-Guru that opens the eyes of our understanding and enables us to see things in their true light and not as they appear. Let us, therefore, worship the Sad-Guru and pray to him to give us the true vision, which is nothing but God-vision.Inner WorshipHemadpant has given us a novel form of worship. Let us, he says, use hot water in the form of tears of joy to wash the Sad-Guru's feet, let us besmear His body with sandle-paste of pure love, let us cover His body w

About Baba: The birth and parentage of Sai Baba are wrapped in mystery. Many authors and scholars conclude from various proofs that Baba was born in 1838 in a Brahmin family at village Pathri in District Parabhani, Maharastra State,India. The Brahmin parents handed over the tender child to the care of a fakir who in turn passed on the young child to a saintly person namely Gopal Rao Deshmukh--an ardent worshipper of Lord Venkateswara. Baba used to refer to him as his Guru "Venkusa." It is also stated that Baba practiced penance at the tomb of his Guru in the cellar under the "Neem" tree at Shirdi.SAI Baba first came to Shirdi about the year 1854 and lived there for three years. He disappeared from there for sometime and returned to Shirdi with a marriage party in 1858 and lived there for sixty years till his Mahasamadhi in 1918. He lived a simple life in a dilapidated mosque. He never accumulated wealth. He advocated faith in God and tolerance towards all as the basic tenets for r

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