H.S. Dixit Part 4

Changes in personality:

Sai once told Dixit that he should never talk bad about people and it hurts Baba when some one does that. Dixit also had some temper issues at that time. Baba helped him to regulate that in course of time. Once they were having discussion in wada about Christianity and Dixit criticizes the religion. Afterwards when he went to see Baba, Sai was quiet and didn’t speak to Dixit. He immediately realizes that Baba knows every thing and asks Baba’s to forgive him in his mind. Then Baba talks to him. Baba then says not to criticize any thing.

Once Dixit performed his daily worship to Baba but forgot to give betel leaves to Sai. When he goes to Dwarakamai, Baba says “Kaka you did not give me betel leaves today”. Dixit was very happy that Baba is watching over him and receiving all his Puja (worship). Since that time, he always did his worship thinking that Baba is in front of him.

So Sai devotees, what can we learn from this. 

Sai is always watching us and we have to worship him with lotof love. 

We should have utmost faith in Baba. 

He was teaching Dixit different means to improve his personality so that he can prepare him for the ultimate goal of life that is Salvation. 

When his daughter died, Baba taught him about death and dying, so that Dixit can understand what human life is about. 


Another time, Dixit won a case and brings 1000 rupees in a box to Baba. He says to Baba “Baba all this is yours”. Then Baba gives away all the money in seconds to everyone around him. Dixit does not even flinch. People were watching his feelings but Dixit eyes were focused on Baba’s feet. This way he proved that he is not attached to money either. 

Along these lines, Dixit personality slowly changed and Baba made him walk towards self- realization. Baba also gave him kaphni (Robe) and Dixit used to wear this when he was in Shirdi.

Baba’s Mahasamadhi:

When Baba left his mortal body in October of 1918, there was a disagreement between Muslims and Hindus about performing last rites. Muslims felt that Baba belongs to them as he lived in a Masjid. Hindu’s did not agree with the idea. But Baba told prior to his Mahasamadhi, that he wanted to go to Buty wada (Building built by Mr. Buty). The lord Krishna Mandir (Shrine) that was planned became Baba’s abode. He also said that he can communicate to his devotees through his Samadhi. Then District officer came as this issue became

controversial. Dixit gets ready to take up the case if this issue goes to Kopergao court. People then backed off as they heard Dixit. It was known that Dixit was invincible in court so Muslim group came to compromise. Then Baba was kept in Samadhi Mandir. This way Dixit made sure that every one followed Baba’s orders.

Dixit’s life after Baba’s Mahasamadhi: 

Dixit took care of Samadhi mandir issues after Baba’s Mahasamadhi very effectively. He laid the foundation for Shirdi Sai sansthan for later years. In 1922 they got permission from Ahmednagar court to form Sai Sansthan. Dixit worked as honorary secretary for the sansthan. People from allwalks of life supported his ideas and liked him personally. He understood Baba’s mission very well. He never showed any discrimination towards Muslims. He treated everyone equally. One time every one was against Bade Baba staying in Wada but Dixit did not agree with them and let Bade Baba stay in Wada. Even Nana Chandorkar was against this decision but Dixit felt that unity was necessary. He followed Baba’s teachings to be compassionate towards animals as well as humans. He did not let any one leave with out eating at his house. He used to rear lot of cats, feed dogs and ants.

One time he asked Baba whether we can kill snakes as they are poisonous. Baba then said, “Kaka with out God’s will even snakes won’t kill you, so we don’t have to kill them”.  Remembering this, Dixit one time had an encounter with a scorpion. He did not let people kill that scorpion, but helped to get rid of it out side with a stick. He used to sleep very deep and did not worry about mosquitoes biting him. When everyone is using Mosquito nets, he did not use them. He used to say what’s wrong if they take my blood little bit. He used to see God in the mosquitoes too. He loved to do medication on Sai and was very fond of singing Sai bhajans. He wrote some lyrics and stopped writing them afterwards. Some one asks him to write bhajans again and his answer was “If I write them; I have a feeling that I wrote them and this will create ego in me. All I need is Sai worship and seva only”.

After Baba’s Mahasamadhi, Dixit’s dispassion towards world increased. His income dropped significantly. He owed a Marwadi Rs.30000. The dead line was approaching but he could not pay. He dreamt about this Marwadi and was telling him that he knew Chunni laal and Chiman laal, who will give him money. So that he can this Marwadi back. He gets up from the dream and feels terrible that he did not think about Sai. Then he goes to his office and that is the day he has to pay his loan back. He left it to Sai. Then one person comes to his office. He tells him that he is son his friend. His father died and asked him to invest his money some where. Then Dixit explains his situation and he willingly offers him money. He felt that it is an honor to give Dixit the money rather than investing. Even here Baba showed the way and got him out of that bad situation.

Dixit’s final days:

Dixit was reading Gajendra Moksha from great scripture Bhagavata on July 4^th 1926. That night Baba appeared in his dream and he saw Baba hugging Hemadpant. Next day he told about this dream to every one including Hemadpant and Tendulkar. His son was in a hospital as he was ill. He wanted to visit him and goes to train station. There he meets Hemadpant and Tendulkar and together they get on the train. Then he tells Hemadpant, “Anna Saheb see Baba is merciful, he made sure that the train came late so that we can all catch the train”. They talked about Sai for some time. Dixit closed his eyes and felt like he was doing meditation. Hemadpant waited for a while and continued to watch Dixit. He was so peaceful and calm. After a while, hemadpant tries to get his attention by touching him and he does not respond. Then he shakes him and realizes that he left his body. Baba took him in Vimana (Flight) like he promised, to give him salvation. 

He died on July 5th, 1926 on Ekadasi day. Baba gave him Sadgati and his death was so peaceful.

Dixit is a role model for Sai devotees in fact for any seekers of the truth. 

He stayed in worldly life and still able to reach the highest goal of human life that is Moksha (salvation) with the blessing of Sai. 

This is dream come true for so many seekers in this spiritual quest. 

Sai bandhus please trust Baba in every aspect of your life and he will not disappoint us and he will lead us all the way.

OM SAI RAM!        

                 

H.S. Dixit Part 3

Progress in Spiritual world:

Sainath is an ocean of mercy. He will protect his devotees and make them walk towards the goal of human life. He is always with us. Dixit was no exception. Until now Dixit proved his faith (Shradda) and devotion towards Baba. He did not even care about his own ego so called image when Baba asked him to kill the goat. If a seeker has to reach new heights in spiritual realm, he or she has to understand death also. Baba is trying to teach all of us that death is not a scary and monstrous thing. Here in the next story Baba is using Dixit to teach us this reality.

Death of an old lady’s son:

Once there was a lady whose son was bitten by a snake and he is about to die. She brings him to Baba and asks him to save him by giving some Udi (Sacred ash). But Baba refuses to give. She starts crying and leaves Dwarakamai. As soon as she leaves the premises her son dies. She brings the dead body and starts weeping with a heavy heart. Watching all this Dixit says, “Baba can you please do some justice to her and save her son”. Then Baba says, “Kaka don’t get entangled in this and whatever happened is good for her son. He is going to do amazing and great things in his new body, which he can not do in this body”. These were enthralling words that Baba spoke about death.

Death of Dixit’s daughter:

 We all know that   Baba saved his daughter (Vatsali) once in the past. But this story is an eye opener. Once Vatsali was in Shirdi with her father and had a fever. Fever was not subsiding and her situation became critical. Baba appears in her dream and says, “ Why are you here, come and sleep under neem tree”. Next day Baba asks Shyama whether Dixit’s daughter is dead or not. Then Shyama says, “Deva why you say those kind of

words”. Then the word comes out that his daughter did die. Dixit comes to Baba with Bhavartha Ramayana in his hand. Baba takes this book and opens a page and asks Dixit to read. That chapter is about a discourse Rama gives to Tara after Wali was killed. Baba exactly takes this page so that Dixit can understand this teaching about death and life. Dixit knows that he can trust Baba and he did not even talk about his daughter’s death.

Here Baba told Vatsali in her dream to come and sleep under neem tree, which means to come and join him. Baba later told Dixit about Vatsali that she was a special soul. She had to finish her remaining karma as a child and that’s why she died early. She attained salvation. For her to leave this body is a good thing. Baba taught so many intricacies and made Dixit experience the reality of life that is death. This helps any seeker to progress in their quest for higher meaning in their lives.

Baba guiding Dixit’s penance:

If our mind can not withdraw from worldly distractions and we do not have love towards God; what could be worse?  We can say that we have real devotion when all organs of action, senses and other human aspects of life converging as one and be able to love god. What is the use if this devotion does not exist and still we do sit in front of Sai? A real devotee should not tolerate the separation from Sai even for a minute. If we can not get rid of intense passion towards worldly objects, how can we increase our love towards God? Parents might love their children, progeny will expect your material belongings, and wife wants the stability in life and in her family. But no one helps you in the quest for salvation. Then who can help us? If we can not help ourselves no body will. We have to cut down the expectations from other people, and start showing self confidence. We need to examine ourselves and this is the only path to freedom. We are in bondage and we have to realize the intensity of this maze. Guru is the ultimate answer and by reciting Guru’s name we will achieve this goal. We will be able to see God in all creatures.

Once Dixit was reading about Navanatha’s devotion in Bhagavat Puran and expressed to the people there that their mindset and will power is hard to fathom. He also says, “How difficult is this Bhakti (Devotion path) marga and for ignorant people like us it is even more difficult. This could not be achieved even in multiple lives. We are all sinners and these Navanathas are special souls. Then Shyama did not like the melancholy expressed

by Dixit. He reminds him that we have Baba in our lives and we do not need to be that despondent. He also reminds him that Baba asked Dixit to read Bhagavat and Bhavartha Ramayana and is this not enough? He is guiding you and reciting Guru’s name or God’s name is the way to go. So we do not have to worry. Dixit knows this truth but he is looking for perfection in his love towards Sai.

9 months Penance:

After 1912, Dixit almost gave up his worldly activities and spent most of the time in Shirdi. Once Baba asked him to stay in Dixit wada and start special penance. He told him to not come near Dwarakamai also. He said there are crowds and there is no solitude so stay in wada itself. Dixit was worried that he will not be able to see Sai and participate in his arathi.  Then Shyama intervenes and gets permission to attend Afternoon and Shej arathis. In Dixit wada, Baba never allowed any females in upstairs quarters. Dixit’s wife visits him during this 9 months penance. Baba would not give permission to her also. Baba reassures his wife and sends her back home. Dixit’s daily routine was as follows; he read Eknath Bhagavat during day time and Bhavartha Ramayana in the night. Most of the time, he was doing meditation on Sai. Baba guided him time and time again to read different chapters and through his meditation. Dixit followed strict celibacy and followed Sai for 9 months. With this penance Dixit was able to attain new heights in spiritual world and progressed well in this path.

Here we can think that Dixit was so blessed to be guided by Sai. But lot of devotees had this opportunity but only Dixit came forward to forego his worldly activities and really wanted to change. If we can desire with same intensity, Baba will definitely guide us. If we have Shradda and Sabhuri (Faith & Patience), nothing is impossible.

Spiritual experiences and visions: 

Vision of Siva Linga:

Once a Ramadasi Bhakta came to Shirdi and gave Baba a Siva Linga. At the same time, Megha came there and prostrated in front of Baba. Then Baba said “Megha look Shankara came and you have to take care of him from now on”. Megha was so excited and became ecstatic. Exactly at the same time Dixit had an extraordinary experience. He took shower and started doing Hari Nama Smarana (Praying Lord Vishnu). Then he started doing Sai chanting and sees a vision of Siva Linga. He wonders why he saw Siva Linga while doing Hari Nama smarana. Then Megha comes and shows him the Siva Linga that was given by Baba. That was the same Siva Linga that Dixit just saw in his vision. Later after Megha’s death, this Siva Linga was placed at Guru Sthan under Neem tree.

Vittal Darshan (vision):

Once Dixit took a shower and sat for meditation. He then sees Lord Vittal in his meditation. After that he went to see Baba. Baba immediately says, “Vittal Patil came to you. Did you meet him? But be careful, don’t let him go. He is very fluid and slips away easily”. Then Dixit goes to his wada. There comes a person selling Lord Vittal’s photo frames. One of the pictures resembled exactly the same as he saw in his vision. He remembers Baba’s words, immediately buys that picture. He keeps that in his pooja mandir (Altar).

Baba gave so many experiences to Dixit and advanced him in the spiritual path. Sai will always protect us if we show faith and patience.

OM SAI RAM!

H.S. Dixit Part 2

Sai protecting Dixit during difficult times:

Dixit experienced some inner changes since he met Sai Maharaj. He felt like staying in Shirdi it self and serve Sai. He started having a feeling of detachment from his work as an attorney. He started going to Shirdi frequently and his income dropped significantly. All his partners separated from him. Then Dixit starts a firm by himself and takes Purushottam Markad as his new partner. This also did not last long. After 1911, his job related income completely went down. Once he goes to Baba and says “Baba I can not practice this profession any more and I have to tell lies most of the time. I would not continue”. Then Baba told him that he can have practice truthfully and he does not have to lie. He asks him to go to Bombay and practice. After some time, in 1912 he completely closes his practice. Then people started saying that he was hypnotized by a fakir and he became infatuated with Sai. Dixit did not mind these kinds of criticisms and started having complete faith in Baba. During these circumstances any body will be depressed but Dixit reduced his needs to a minimum. He was able to curtail unnecessary expenditures and use his money wisely. With all these adjustments he was able to stay more time in Shirdi with out having to work. This is like a Vanaprastha Ashrama (Monastic life). It was reported that he had the practice and married life for almost 25 years.

Dixit mastering Shradda (faith):

Once Dixit fell ill and had fever, while he was in Shirdi. Baba tells him to go to Bombay and take rest in his house. He also says that the fever will go away in few days. Don’t stay in bed and eat sira (Sweet). Dixit goes to Villeparle and tried to relax in his building. His fever gets worse and his family was very much concerned. They call a doctor by name Dr. Demante. He concludes that it is 9 day fever; he has to take rest in bed and has to use medicines. But Dixit follows Baba’s instructions. Then on the ninth day fever subsides and he gets better with out any treatment. This way he proved that he had complete faith in Baba’s words.

Baba protecting Dixit’s family:

Baba not only protects his devotees but also their family members. We have seen this with other devotees also. Once Dixit’s gets a letter that his brother was ill. He then goes to Baba and expresses his inability to help him. Then Baba says “I am here”. At the same time, a saintly person came to his brother and cures him of his illness. Then Dixit gets the information that his brother was healthy and every one was amazed with Baba’s omnipresence.

Baba protects Dixit’s daughter Vatsali in a similar way. She was playing in her house and climbs up a closet. Then that cabinet falls on her but she escapes with out any injury. Baba tells people around him that he just saved Kaka’s daughter.

In 1913 Dixit was in Shirdi and his son became sick at his house. Then he gets a letter from his family to come home quickly. He goes and asks Sai permission and Sai says “Let him come here to Shirdi”. He tells the family to send him to Shirdi but family was worried about his examinations. They were trying to think and his trip to Shirdi was delayed. Then Dixit convinces them to send him as per Baba’s word. When his son

came to Shirdi, he became healthy. Then Dixit asks Baba for permission to send him back in time for the examinations. Then Baba did not give permission. The examinations were supposed to start on November 2,1913 but they were postponed. Baba did not give permission second time also. The examinations were postponed again. Then Baba lets him go. He goes home and passed in the examinations. Here Dixit showed Sabhuri (Patience) and taught us how to be faithful regarding Baba. Baba saved Dixit’s family time and time again.

Baba’s word is Veda (scripture):

One time Dixit felt that he was unable to sit in meditation, so he decided to fast in the evenings. He goes to Dwarakamai to see Sai and prostrates with devotion. Then Baba says “Kaka what are you coking for dinner tonight? Make Roti and curry, and give me an offering then eat”. Dixit understands Baba’s words and realizes that Baba does not want him to fast. He took every word of Baba as God’s word and that’s why Baba also adored him so much. Baba used to tell Hemadpant and Purandhare to be in company of Dixit as much as possible. He used to say that he is the best seeker in spiritual world.

Story of Goat slaying:             

   

 In essence, man is beyond the three ‘gunas’, but deluded by ‘maya’ he forgets his truth – pure consciousness – bliss state, and considers himself to be the body. Then because of the pride of the body, he believes in doer ship and enjoyer ship. He gets entangled in miseries, one after the other, and finds no way to escape. A loving and devoted attachment to the Guru’s feet is the only way to ward off the endless miseries. Sai, Sree Rang, is a great actor and dyes the devotees in his own hues. This story illustrates the extreme devotion and faith by Dixit towards Baba.

Once there was cholera epidemic in Shirdi area and some one brought a sick goat to Baba.  Somebody brought a goat, which looked feeble and on the point of death. People came to see it. Then at that time, Bade Baba was near by. Baba said: “Offer it as a sacrifice. Kill it with one stroke”. When that Bade Baba was the first one to be asked to kill the goat, the excuse that came from his mouth was: “Why should it be unnecessarily killed?”

Then Baba ordered Shyama, “Shyama, you at least bring a knife. We will cut the goat. Go now”. Madhavrao was a faithful devotee. He went to Radhakrishna Bai and brought a big knife and placed it before Baba. Though Shyama was troubled about bringing the big knife, Baba would not have been satisfied in seeing him without the knife. In the meanwhile, Radhakrishna Bai learnt about this matter and recalled the big knife because she felt pity. Then Shyama left to get another knife. He remained in the Wada, delaying his return, so that the killing would not have to be done at his hand.

Then to test Kaka’s mind, Baba ordered him: “Go, you bring a big knife to cut. Let the goat be freed from its misery”. Then he went to Sathe’s Wada and brought the instrument (to kill) as per the order. He got himself ready to kill the goat without the least hesitation. Inspiration for heroism (bravery) is derived from obedience of the Guru’s order. Hardening his heart he took hold of the weapon. He was born in a pious Brahmin family, for whom Ahimsa was one of life’s vows since birth. He was placed in this kind of a situation. How would his hand proceed? He determined to undauntedly obey the Guru’s order. But his heart was palpitating and his body was soaked in perspiration. Then tucking in his dhoti with one hand and holding up the knife in the other, he folded up the sleeve of the hand that held the knife. He came forward where the goat was. Then, he tightened his grip on the big knife, raised his hand and said: “Baba, shall I kill it? Just tell me once.” Truly speaking, a weapon is held only to protect the weak; and yet it was now raised above an innocent

goat! But he had dedicated his life to serve the Guru. Therefore, he had no hesitation. He wanted to kill it quickly. But pity arose in his heart and the big knife wavered. The hand would not descend. “Come on, kill now, what are you waiting for? Hearing this final order, he made a semi-circular turn for an effective strike. He lifted his hand with the big knife. Now he would certainly strike! Seeing this, Mother Sai, knowing that it would be a calamity said: “Oh let it be. Oh, Kaka, stop this. How cruel you are! Though you are a Brahmin, you are ready to kill! Have you no thought about this? ” Hearing this, he threw aside the big knife. The young and the old were surprised. The goat’s life was spared. Devotion to the Guru had scaled the peak!

Then, Kaka, after throwing away the large knife said what? Pay attention: “Baba, your nectar-like words are the only ‘dharma’ and laws in our life. We have no other dharma. We have no shame. Obeying the Guru’s order is our only creed. It is our Veda(Scripture) and Shastra. To completely obey the Guru’s order, that is the meaning of discipleship for a disciple. That is our jewel. Disobedience is the greatest sin. We never consider the consequences of these actions whether they give pleasure or pain. Whatever is our fate will happen. God alone takes care. We know only one thing. We should remember your name always, see nothing but your form with our eyes, and follow your every command, day and night. Virtues or sin of killing or non-killing are meaningless to us. Our salvation is at the Sadguru’s feet. Why should we think of the reason behind the order? It is our duty to obey.

Later, Baba said to Kaka: “Take this tin container of water in your hand. Now I will slaughter it myself, and give it Sadgati”.

The goat was half dead as it is. Fakir Baba had a timely thought that the ‘takiya’ was near by. He asked Baba for his opinion if the goat should be killed at the ‘takiya’. Under this pretext, when the goat was being taken there, it died on the way. 

Everyone knew that the goat’s death was imminent, but at the opportune time Baba enacted this drama.

Spiritual meaning behind the story:

This was a difficult test and Kaka was pure gold. Though Baba knew this fully, unless he had tested him in public, it would not be believed. Baba promised him that he will take him in “Vimana” that is providing him sadgati (Salvation). This is the kind of devotee who is eligible for Brahma-Jnana (Self-Realization).

If one had doubts about the words of a saint, his efforts for achievement are unsuccessful. His words become meaningless, futile, fruitless chatter. Not even a bit of spiritual growth is gained. One who respects the words of the Guru will achieve his welfare and the supreme goal of his life. But he who finds fault with them and thinks them vile, he is ruined. One who is always ready to serve the Guru, respects and obeys the Guru’s orders; he makes the Guru responsible for what is correct or incorrect in all respects. He is the servant of the Guru’s orders. He does not think independently. Always, obeying the orders of the Guru, he does not distinguish what is good or bad. Mind should be engrossed in remembering Sai’s name; the eyes should be fixed at the feet of Sai; the attitude should be of meditation on Sai – the whole being should be dedicated to Sai. Even if a moment is lost between receiving the orders and executing them, that time also cannot be tolerated. This is a strange level of awareness!

Dixit was a man of pure heart. He was truthful, courageous, and unshakable as a rock in his determination. It did not even occur to him to question the righteousness of killing the goat. The innocent goat would die; its soul would be in turmoil; his own reputation would be besmirched; and he would have committed a great sin. These thoughts had no place in his mind. Disobedience of the order was a sin there. There was no greater merit than the fostering and protection of the order. Complete obedience to the Guru is the greatest ornament amongst all adornments – a true sign of the good disciple. The mind should be always at the Guru’s feet, whether I live or die. We obey the order of the Guru. He alone knows the consequence or the end result.

Once you surrender to Guru and place full faith at his feet, then he worries about the disciple and the disciple has to make no effort. There is no place for fear for him, once he has totally surrendered. That self-confidence alone would ferry him across life.

H.S. Dixit Part 1

H.S Dixit attained an eminent position among Sai devotees. He is a role model and there is so much to learn from his life and the worship that he did for Sai Baba. Even though he was in worldly life until the age of 45, Sai made him advance in his spiritual life. Sai Maharaj protected him every second of his life so that he will not be a victim to the pressures of this mundane life. He helped him in daily family issues and his work related problems. He was not immune to the worldly problems that we all face every day. Sri Satcharita gives us some details about Dixit (Kaka Saheb) and later on some details were published in Sai Leela Masik (Journal). Sri Narasimha Swami gave some of the details about his personal life and other stories. Kaka Saheb also wrote a dairy.  His life fully revolved around Baba after his first meeting and we can relate to him as a common man. The greatness and what separated him from regular devotees, is his dedication. Even though he can earn fame, money and every thing in life, he ignored all of that to serve Baba. This is what we can learn from this great personality.

Birth, Family and job details:

His full name is Hari Sitaram Dixit. Baba used to call him Kaka. He was born in 1864 in Khandva, Madhya Pradesh. He belongs to Nagari Brahman sect. His primary education took place in Khandva and Hingan Ghat. He later went to Alfiston college in Bombay and received his LLB degree at the age of 19. Then he passed all the required exams and joined Littile & Co.  Then he started his own solicitors business.  He earned lot of fame and money.  He built a bungalow of his own in Lonawala.

He took some prominent cases in his life which includes the case of Freedom fighter Sri Bala Gangadhar Tilak, case of Times of India and Poona Vaibhav etc. He became prominent both in the eyes of British and in Indian national congress.  He was elected for Bombay counsel in 1901. In 1904, he was elected the

Secretary of Indian National Congress. He became honorary position in Bombay University. He had so many high cadre positions that people can not imagine even getting there. His life took a turn when all of this has been going smoothly.

  In 1906 Dixit was visiting England. Dixit told him about his accident in London, when his foot slipped while boarding a train and was injured. The trouble that he suffered from could not be relieved inspite of hundreds of remedies. He was walking with a limp. If he walks for a while he used to get pain in his leg. This changes his life in travel and his psyche was also affected. Even though this was a handicap from the out side but this became a blessing for Dixit. He started thinking about his life and how transient things around us. He also started analyzing his priorities in his life. He was around 45 years of age at that time. He met Gurus like Datta Maharaj at that time. He started realizing that there is no happiness in worldly objects and wanted to understand the meaning of life.

First Meeting with Baba:

Once he goes on vacation to rest in his Bungalow in 1909. Nana Saheb Chandorkar happened to meet him for the first time after they got separated as classmates. Nana took government job and Dixit remained in his private practice as an attorney. They caught up with lots of issues about their past friendship. Then Dixit spoke to him about his accident in England, how it changed his life. Then Nana suggested him to go to Baba and told him that he will cure this lameness. Then Dixit said, “Nana this physical lameness is not bothering me but I want help with lameness in my mind. I need to meet my Guru, and I am longing for salvation. I did so much worship, sang bhajans (devotional singing) but my mind is still not at ease. I am trying to redirect my mind with out much success. Some one needs to cure lameness in my mind”.

The election of the then Legislative Council was the topic of conversation everywhere. The people were engaged in this work, in many places. Kakasaheb came suddenly to Nagar (Ahmednagar) to canvass for votes for him, and was meeting friends for that purpose. There was a chieftain there by the name of Kakasaheb Mirikar. Dixit had close family relations with him. He, therefore, stayed there with him. According to the custom of those times, an exhibition of horses was arranged at Nagar. Therefore, people from all walks of life were engaged in work connected with it. Balasaheb Mirikar, the Mamlatdar of Kopergaon, was present at Ahmednagar town for the exhibition. After Dixit’s work was completed, he came there. ‘How would it be possible to go to Shirdi? Who will take me there?’ Once the work had come to an end, his attention was on the way to Shirdi. Dixit’s intense desire was only for the opportunity to have Baba’s ‘darshan’. ‘Who will come with me? Who will take me before Baba and place me at his feet?’ These were Dixit’s dilemmas. Once the work for the elections was over, Dixit was only worried about how he would go to Shirdi. He respectfully requested Mirikar.

Balasaheb Mirikar was the son of Kakasaheb Mirikar. They discussed among themselves as to who should go with Dixit. If any one of them would accompany him, then there would be no need for another. Then who should definitely go with him, was being debated. Man thinks of ordinary solutions; but God plans something else. For Dixit’s journey to Shirdi, something unexpected happened. On this side, there was this turmoil. On the other side, observe the agitation. Knowing the strong desire of the devotee, see how Samartha yearned with compassion! While Dixit was driven by these thoughts and was seated, worrying about this, Madhavrao himself came to Nagar. Everyone was surprised.

The father-in-law of Madhavrao had telegraphed him from Nagar that his mother-in-law was gravely ill and he should come immediately with his wife. As soon as he received the telegram, he prepared to leave after obtaining Baba’s permission. Both of them went to Chithali station. They caught the 3 o’clock train and both went to Nagar. They took a tonga and got down at the door. At the same time, Nanasaheb Panshe and Appasaheb Gadre were also there, in connection with the exhibition and were passing by that road. As Madhavrao was alighting from the tonga, they saw him unexpectedly. They were quite surprised. They could not contain their joy. “Look at this! By good fortune Madhavrao, who is the sevakari of Vithoba temple, is here, from Shirdi! Who can be better than him to take Dixit to Shirdi? ” Then calling out to him, said: “Dixit Kaka has come to Mirikar’s. Go and see him. Marvel at Baba’s leelas! Dixit is our remarkable friend. You will get acquainted with him. He is very eager to go to Shirdi and your arrival will delight him.” Giving this message to Madhavrao, they gave the information to Dixit; whose anxiety was relieved on hearing it. He was extremely pleased. When Madhavrao visited his in-laws, he found that his mother-in-law was better. So he rested a little. Then Mirikar sent for him. Respecting the invitation, a little after sunset Madhavrao left to meet Dixit. When Balasaheb introduced him, it was his first m meeting. Both of them decided to take the 10 o’clock train, the same night. After this plan was decided, see what an unusual thing happened next.

Balasaheb removed the curtain over Baba’s portrait This was a photograph of Baba which was worshipped by Megha, a true and great devotee of Baba, with the conviction that Baba was the holy, three-eyed Shankar, incarnate. Because the glass was broken, it was sent to Nagar with Balasaheb for repairs. That was how it initially left Shirdi. This picture, having been repaired, was in Mirikar’s drawing room, covered with cloth, as if it was waiting for Dixit. Balasaheb was to return it after the conclusion of the horse-show. But there was yet some more time for that. Therefore, he entrusted it to Madhavrao. Removing the cloth, he uncovered it. He gave it in Madhavrao’s keeping; and said: “Go up to Shirdi happily, in Baba’s company.”

When he first cast a glance at that portrait, which was pleasing in all aspects, Kakasaheb was filled with joy. After prostrating before it with reverence, he began to look at it. Experiencing this unusual incident, and seeing Sai Samartha’s photograph unexpectedly, which was so pleasing and pure, Dixit’s eyes were riveted to it. He was greatly delighted that he, for whose ‘darshan’ he was longing, his portrait embodying his form, could be seen by him, on the way itself. It was a strange coincidence that it was at Kakasaheb Mirikar’s

house, at the same time when Dixit was there, having come earlier from Shirdi. It seemed that Sai Samartha had come at Mirikar’s residence, under a pretext, to fulfil Dixit’s heartfelt longing. At Lonavala itself, the attraction for the Guru had taken place when he had met Nana and talked at length with him. It was the seed sown for the meeting. Otherwise why should this portrait from Shirdi have come here at this time and remained covered for so long at this place? So be it. After it was so decided, Madhavrao and Dixit, taking the picture with them, set out happily. They both left for the station after dinner, that same night. They paid the second-class fare and bought the tickets. Right at the stroke of ten, the sound of the train could be heard. They also saw that the second-class compartments were crammed with passengers. The situation was such that both of them were greatly worried. The time was also short. What arrangement could be made and how? Be it so. Now, because, of the overcrowding, both of them decided to return to their place and go the next day to Shirdi.

At that moment, Dixit saw the guard of the train with whom he had an acquaintance. He easily made arrangements for them to travel by the first class. Then, sitting in the train, they started talking about Baba, to their heart’s content. Madhavrao narrated the nectar-like stories. Dixit overflowed with joy. Thus that journey was completed very joyfully. Time passed very quickly. The train reached Kopergaon. They alighted in a very happy mood.

 At the same time, they unexpectedly saw Nanasaheb Chandorkar at the station. Dixit was full of happiness that they had met each other. Nana too had come for Baba’s ‘darshan’ and was proceeding to Shirdi. All the three of them were amazed at this coincidence. Then, the three of them hired a tonga and left on the way, animatedly talking. They had a bath in the Godavari, on the way, and reached holy Shirdi.

Later, after having Sai’s ‘darshan’ Dixit’s heart melted and his eyes filled with tears. The water of Self Bliss spilt and over flowed.

 “I too was waiting for you. Then I sent Shama to meet you, all the way to Nagar,” spoke Sai clearly to him.

Hearing these words, every pore in Dixit’s body was filled with joy; his throat was choked with emotion; his mind was full of happiness; and he was sweating profusely.

His body trembled; his mind was engrossed in Self Bliss; his eyes were half closed and he was immersed in a cloud of joy.

 “To-day my eyes have served their purpose”. Saying this he embraced Baba’s feet.

He felt truly blessed and the world could not contain his joy.

Later, years passed. His faith was firmly rooted at Sai’s feet. He attained Sai’s grace fully; and wearied his body in Sai’s service. To serve Sai well, he built a house or ashram in Shirdi and stayed there for many years. He spread Sai’s fame. In conclusion, whosoever longs for Sai is fulfilled by him. Sai is the abode of refuge for his devotees and the giver of ultimate joy to them.

Building Dixit wada:

After his first meeting with Baba in 1909 November, Dixit again came back to Shirdi in December for another darshan and thought of staying on. He had to stay in Sathe wada and could not find solitude. He first thought of disposing off some twenty-five shares of his to build a tin shed which would be useful also to the pilgrims. Later on he decided to build a wada and find the auspicious day for the laying of the foundation stone, in the following year. On the 9^th December, he took Baba’s permission and considered that very day to be an auspicious one, for laying the foundation stone. Dixit’s brother, who otherwise would not have come even after an invitation, had arrived on that very day for the auspicious muhurat(Time). Dadasaheb Khaparde had already come there alone.

He felt awkward to ask Baba for permission to return home. But on the tenth of December, Khaparde was allowed to leave Shirdi and Dikshit to lay the foundation – both these permissions were given on that day. Another important event took place on this day. The bed-time arati (Shej) at the Chavadi was started on this day, with great love and faith. Later on, in 1911, the auspicious day of Ramnavami, the house-entering ceremony was accomplished according to the usual rites. They called this wada as Kaka wada or Dixit wada. He allowed the lower portion of the building to be used by the visitors and he kept a room for himself on the upper level.

OM SAI RAM!

Hemadpant Part 3

Preparing Hemadpant to write Sai Satcharita

Here Baba is trying to help Hemadpant and teach how to deal with the inner enemies, so that he can be purified. He was preparing him for future endeavors. Here he gave an intense discourse.

“Without having an association from some earlier life, no one, not just human beings but even animals and birds, come across one another. Therefore, do not rebuff any one.

Respect the strangers who come to your doorstep. Offer water to the thirsty, give bread to the hungry, clothes to the naked and some space to rest in your verandah to the needy. This will please the Lord. If anybody is in need of money and you are not desirous of giving, do not give; but at least, don’t behave in an insulting manner and bark like a dog at him.

Anyone may call you names in a hundred ways, never retort with bitterness. Tolerate it with patience. You will gain tremendous happiness. Even if the world turns topsy-turvy, you should remain still. Be steadfast and observe passively.

Break down the wall between you and me. Then the way to approach each other will be clear and there will be no fear. The sense of duality between you and me is the wall between the Guru and the disciple. Till this wall is not completely demolished, the state of oneness is impossible to achieve.

‘Allah is the Master. Allah is the Master.’ There is no other protector than Him. His deeds are divine, invaluable and incomprehensible. It will be what He wills. He alone will show the path. When the time comes, without a moment’s delay, the wish will be granted.

People meet as destiny decides. We come together because of good fortune. We should, therefore nurture affection for each other and enjoy happiness and serenity. Who is immortal here? Blessed is he who has attained the supreme goal of life. Others only breathe to remain alive”.

When I heard these sacred words, my anxious mind was put to rest. My thirst was quenched. I was blissfully happy. One may possess incomparable intellect and also firm faith. But to have the support of a Guru like Sai, one’s luck must be in favor.

These are Baba’s sayings or charters. Whoever will accept these words as the truth, he will enjoy the mine of happiness in this world as well as the world beyond.  

A devotee should surrender unconditionally and observe the remarkable results of devotion. Each day will unfold a new miraculous deed of Sai. Be it so. 

If a good thought comes to your mind immediately on waking up in the morning, you should foster it. If such a thought continues to prosper, it will bring contentment, sharpen the intellect and please the mind.

Pledge to write about Great Sai:

After meeting Sai Maharaj, Hemadpant felt indescribable feeling with utmost mental peace. Baba knows our personalities and who should do what kind of service. In December of 1911 Hemadpant came to Shirdi again and he was unaware of the sweetness of this journey. Baba knows that this is the time to rescue all his devotees and world. At the same time Shirdi and other part of the country was worried about cholera. Hemadpant goes to Dwarakamai to see Baba. Baba was in front of a hand mill to grind wheat. When he was grinding the wheat, Hemadpant was going through some kind of special feeling.

By writing stories of great saints or even to talk about their holyness will dispel our ignorance. Lord will free us from worldly sufferings. Who ever resorts to Sai’s feet, will definitely reach their goals. These memorable thoughts made Hemadpant to take a pledge to write Sai’s story and his teachings. From this ocean of indescribable feelings, came the nectar of Sri Sai Satcharita.

Hemadpant did not tell any one about his intentions to write the story of Sai. After 5 years in 1916, he decided to put his thought to action. He took the help of Shyama to get permission from Baba. He starts this in 1917 and by 1918 October (Sai Mahasamadhi), he finished only 2 chapters. By 1929 he wrote 52 chapters. He declared that Sai himself was the writer and he was just an instrument. It was incredible that this Sree Sai Samartha’s Charita should have been written at my hands! If it had not been for Sai’s Grace, it would have been impossible for an insignificant person like me. My association with him was not of long standing. I had not the experience to know neither saints nor the discerning capacity. Moreover, I was always doubting and an unbeliever. I had never worshipped anyone exclusively and with singular devotion; I had never sat even for a moment to do ‘bhajans’. By getting his life story written at the hands of such a person, he demonstrated what he could do to the people.

In order to fulfill his own words, Sai himself reminds me about the incidents for this book and accomplishes his own aims. ‘Hemad’ is used only for name’s sake. Can a mosquito lift the Meru Mountain? Or can a lapwing empty out the ocean? But when the Sadguru’s support is there, the miraculous can happen.

Hemadpant’s life after Baba’s Mahasamadhi: 

Hemad retired from government service in 1916 and became immersed in Sai service. He was writing the Sri Sai Satcharita from his house which he built in 1912. His discipline was incredible. He was very pious and studying scriptures every day. In the morning he will recite Guru charitra and Vishnu Sahasranama. He loved to read Eknath Bhagavat. He was also involved in Sai Sansthan related issues and take part in Sai leela masik (magazine). He was very humble and did not turn any one down when some one came to meet him. He was caring and loving in his nature. He helped lot of poor students for their education. 

Even though he remained in worldly life, he was fully devoted and was able to give up every thing in his mind. On July 15^th 1929 he left his mortal body at his own house. His death was so peaceful, and it can only happen to great saints.

We are blessed to read about him and this can happen only if we have the blessing of our Great Sai Maharaj.

OM SAI RAM!        

Hemadpant Part 2

Baba giving the name "Hemadpant" to Anna Saheb Dabholkar:

Once Guru enters our life, our attitude and the way we live our life will change. Hemadpant will also experience this kind of feeling from now on. He went to his lodging (wada) after he visited Baba. After taking shower, they started having a discussion about necessity of a Guru. Balasheb Bhate was telling the groups that we need Guru in our lives and with out which the path of spirituality is difficult. Hemadpant arugued that self effort is so essential with out which even Guru can not do much. The arguments went back and forth and they became heated discussions. Then they could not decide either way. They all went to Dwarakamai. Baba immediately asked them about these discussions. Hemadpant was surprised that Baba knew about the discussions and they are not even close to the masjid. Why all these discussions? What this Hemadpant is saying? That was the first time this name was used. Hemadpant name was given by Baba to Anna Shaeb Dabolkar. Hemadpant realized why he was called by that name and wanted to control his passion. He also wanted to channel his ego properly. As long is this name is there, I will be reminded to be humble.

How to apply this in our life:

The same issue we also can apply in our daily life. We are slaves to our ego. In this universe there is no place for unnecessary arguments. We might feel that truth is what we speak. The past impressions from this life and past lives will dictate our thinking and ideology. These thoughts will always try to change our world around us and in the process we suffer. We can not change every thing every thing around us. This truth will be revealed to us when we have Guru’s blessing. That’s the reason why even supreme God when he takes life, he took the shelter of a Guru. Lord Krishna took Sandipa Maharshi as his Guru, and Rama‘s Guru was Vashista Maharshi and they became rolemodels for the humans. In Yoga Vashistam it was emphasized that self effort is also essential. We have to work hard and Guru will not do every thing. We have to take some crucial decisions about our life and how we want to live. Other wise path is not easy.

Baba dragged Hemadpant to Shirdi so that he can extract the best out of him. This diamond has to be cut properly so that it can shine beautifully. The great Gurus can see through clearly what are the major obstructions in the life of a seeker. The seeker might not realize these hurdles by themselves. If they are not corrected, the seeker will sink to the new lows. Baba made his devotees stay in the family life and still was able to bring changes in them. He did not suggest renunciation. In a similar way he rescued Hemadpant. We have to take care of inner enemies.

A great business man by name Sathe lost every thing in his life. He became distressed and despondent about his situation. Some one suggested to him that if he goes to Shirdi he might feel better. He came and visited Baba, started reading Guru Charitra (Scripture). After seven days, he saw Baba in his dream and Baba was explaining the scripture that he was reading. He came and told Dixit about the dream and Hemadpant was also there. Hemadpant then felt in his mind that he read this scripture several times and Baba never appeared in his dream. He felt sorry for himself. Baba realized this and told him to go to Shyama’s house. He was supposed to ask for rupees 15 as Dakshina (offering) and stay with him little while to talk. Baba taught so many things by just sending him to Shyama.

Usually Hemadpant reads his daily scripture but he did not read that day. When he went to Shyama’s house, Shyama was busy and asked him to make himself comfortable. Then he saw Bhagavata scripture and opened the book. He exactly opens where he stopped earlier. He was surprised by this. Baba is teaching here that we need to have dedication in what ever we do. Our mind should not control us. Then Shyama talks about the story of Radhabai Deshmukh. Hemadpant goes and repeats the story to Baba during the afternoon arathi time. Then Sai gives a discourse which goes as follows. 

Teachings behind Radhabai Deshmukh story:

Then Baba said, 'Wonderful is the story. Did the story strike you, and did you catch its significance?' Anna Saheb said, 'Yes. The restlessness of my mind has vanished. I have got true peace and come to know the true path'. 

Then Baba said, 'My method is quite unique. Remember well this one story, and it will be very useful. To get knowledge (realisation) of the self, dhyana (meditation) is necessary. If you practise it continuously, the vrinis (thoughts) will be pacified. 

Being quite desireless, you should meditate on the Lord who is in all the creatures, and when the mind is concentrated, the goal will be achieved. 

Meditate always on my formless nature, which is Knowledge Incarnate, Consciousness and Bliss. If you cannot do this, meditate on my form from top to toe as you see here night and day. As you go on doing this, your vrittis will be one-pointed and the distinction between the dhyata (meditator), dhyana (act of meditation) dhyeya (thing meditated upon) will be lost, and the meditator will be one with the consciousness and be merged in Brahman. 

The mother tortoise is on one bank of the river and her young ones are on the other side. She gives neither milk nor warmth to them. The mere glance gives them nutrition. The young ones do nothing but remember (meditate upon) their mother. The tortoise glance is, to the young ones, a downpour of nectar, the only source of sustenance and happiness. Similar is the relation between the Guru 'and disciples.' 

Baba gave him sugarcandy and said, 'If you take this story to heart, remember it well, your state will be equally sweet. Your desires will be fulfilled and you will be happy. Meditate on the story; assimilate its spirit; then you will always remember and meditate on the Lord who will manifest himself to you.'

Great Gurus will teach us so many things but if we can not relate them to our daily life there is no use. By giving Radhabai Deshmukh story Baba gave us two great things in the form of Faith and patience. Even if we know different Upanishads, what is the use; if we can not change our lives and get rid of ignorance?

OM SAI RAM