AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI-PART 37

EXCERPTS INHERITED FROM THE BOOK,"AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI"
COMPILED BY:SAI BHAKT VINNY

Leela 68
Baba wanted peace and harmony amongst His devotees, whether they were Hindus, Muslims, Parsees or any other caste or religion. Once the Muslims were offering 'namaz' in Dwarkamai. Simultaneously, the Hindus were performing Bhajans, accompanied with musical instruments. The Muslims complained to Baba about this, saying that it was a hindrance to their worship. Baba, however, said, "Those who pray sincerely with concentration will not find any hindrance. So those who want to do 'namaz' devotedly may do so, and the rest may leave."
Baba was extremely fair with his devotees and wouldn't allow anyone to interfere with the others' spiritual endeavours. In Sai Satcharitra Ch.3, a Rohilla came to Shirdi and recited 'kalmas' from the Koran at top of his voice, day and night. This disturbed the villagers. So they complained to Baba. However, Baba said, "Do not harass the Rohilla. Let him shout on the top of his voice. He brings me great pleasure." Baba's dealings with His devotes was strict and fair. He wasn't concerned to what caste, community, creed or religion they belonged to; neither did their socio-economic or social status affect Him. All He wanted was zeal, love, devotion and total surrender to the almighty.

Leela 69
A devotee from Dewas (Madhya Pradesh) came to Shirdi for Baba's Darshan. He stayed in Dixit Wada and dined in Sagun Meru's hotel. He longed for Baba to dine with him. So he reserved a plate of food everyday.
Then he went and invited Baba to dine with him for lunch and dinner. But Baba just laughed. One night, at 10:30 p.m., just as Sagun Meru was about to close the hotel, a Nath Panthi entered the hotel and said, " There is a plate of food reserved for me. Can I have it?" Sagun Meru at once made Him sit comfortably, and offered the food to Him. He ate heartily and asked to see the person, who, had so thoughtfully reserved the food. Sagun Meru ran to Dixit Wada at once. But the devotee was fast asleep. Try as he may, he couldn't awaken him. He returned and told the Nath Panthi about it. "Always feed the hungry", He said and then left.
Everyone heard about this the next day. Shama asked Baba if He had dined at Sagun Meru's. " Yes .I had gone to the hotel yesterday and dined to My heart's content", said Baba. Thus it was known that Baba went in other roopas (forms) to dine in Shirdi also.
"Today, as everyday, I went to Bandra, but there was no rice, no gruel, nothing to eat or drink; and hungry, I had to return," said Baba to Mrs.Tarkhad (Sai Satcharitra Ch. 9).
Baba often went as an athiti, and dined, in the homes of various devotees, at different places. Sometimes, He told the devotee that he would come for lunch and this He did, but as a sadhu, fakir or an athiti (as any living creature). It was up to the devotee to recognize Him in that form and also to recognize Him in every form.
Upasani was staying at Khandoba Mandir, Shirdi as per Baba's orders. Everyday, he cooked a meal and took it to Dwarkamai and offered it to Baba. One day, while he was cooking, he noticed a black dog watching him, prepare the food, with great eagerness. Upasani thought that it was absurd to give food to the dog, before offering it to Baba. The dog, however, followed him for quite a distance and then disappeared. Upon reaching the Dwarkamai, he offered the naivedya, and Baba said, "Why did you come all the way in this heat? I was there, watching and waiting for you to offer Me the food." Upasani was astonished to hear these words. Baba refused to accept the prasad.
The next day, a sickly Shudra (low caste) was leaning against the wall watching him. He feared the "Drishti-Dosha" (evil eye) of a Shudra watching a Brahmin cook. So, he said, "Go away," and the man left. Again, Baba refused to accept the prasad. Upasani asked Him if He could have been the sickly beggar. Baba said, "I'm in everything and beyond." (Ref: Life of Sai Baba Vol.3)
In Sai Satcharitra Ch. 40, Deo invited Baba to his home for the udyapan (concluding ceremony of a religious observance) ceremony and Baba agreed, saying that He would come with two others. On that day, a Bengali sanyasi and his two companions came and dined. Although Deo was very courteous and looked after them graciously, he failed to recognize Baba. He later wrote to Baba saying that he was disappointed at the breach of promise, as Baba did not attend the udyapan ceremony. Baba said, "Tell him, if he did not recognize Me, why did he invite Me ? Yet, I lunched at the function to My heart's satisfaction. I will even give up My life for My devotee . But the words from My mouth will never be untrue."

AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI-PART 36

EXCERPTS INHERITED FROM THE BOOK,"AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI"
COMPILED BY:SAI BHAKT VINNY

Leela 66

R.B.Purandare was in the railway division of the government. He applied for leave once, which was accepted and granted along with passes for the journey. Joyfully, he made all kinds of preparations as he was going to Shirdi to see his Guru. A day before his departure, his superior officer called him and requested him to cancel the trip as there was an impending workmen's strike. Purandare was acutely disappointed. How could he survive this blow?? "I would rather die, than to cancel my trip to Shirdi. Any other place of visit, I could do without", he thought. He was adamant to leave as planned, though his officer had promised to sanction leave later, after the crisis had blown over. That night, Baba appeared in his dream and angrily said, " Don't you dare come to Shirdi tomorrow ." Purandare obeyed and attended office as usual, the next day. This pleased the officer and the doubt that he harboured, that Purandare was in league with the strikers also vanished. A month later, the officer asked him to take leave and go to Shirdi. When he went to the Dwarkamai, Baba said, " Don't go mad. We have as yet, many responsibilities to discharge. Stay at home and chant My name. Am I not with you all the time ???"

Leela 67

Baba asked Purandare to build a house, for himself and his family, at his own expense. Purandare, with great difficulty, bought land in the desolate Bandra suburb. He started construction, but was plagued by severe headaches. Unable to bear it anymore, he wrote to Baba, pleading that, instead of giving him such unbearable pain, He had better put and end to his life. This letter he gave Dr. Pillai, with the request to give it to Baba. Upon the receipt of the letter, Baba's heart melted and He sent some Udi and snuff like powder in a small packet. He asked Purandare to inhale it, and Purandare did just that and the headache was gone. A few days later, he wrote to Baba, asking Him when he should do 'Gruha-Pravesh'. Baba replied, " You may perform 'Gruha - Pravesh' on Thursday. I too will come along with you."

So, on Thursday, Purandare made 'naivedya' for Baba. Then with Baba's photograph clasped to his chest, he proceeded to the house. Being rather poor, he couldn't have an elaborate 'Pooja' and riuals. As long as Baba's photograph was there first with naivedya, everything would go well, he thought. To his surprise, as he was walking past the Datta Mandir, he saw Baba there. Baba accompanied him to the new house, till Purandare reverentially placed Baba's photograph on as 'aasan' and then vanished.

AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI-PART 35

EXCERPTS INHERITED FROM THE BOOK,"AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI",
COMPILED BY:SAI BHAKT VINNY




Leela 64
Ramchandra Maharaj was required by his Guru Gadge Maharaj to sponsor a day's expense for the 'yagna' (holy sacrifice) that he was going to perform. Ramchandra Maharaj went to Belapur, and the surrounding places, performing Kirtans. He obtained promises of sums greater than the estimated expenses. So, he was quite carefree. When he went again, a few days later to collect them, he was disappointed. As the money wasn't forthcoming, and the people evaded him. Ramchandra Maharaj was in fix and wondered, how he could fulfill his promise to his Guru. He therefore offered an earnest prayer to Baba for help. The next morning, a devotee brought Rs.100/- and gave it to Ramchandra Maharaj while he was performing 'kirtans'. That was the exact amount that was promised to him. Need it be said that his faith in Baba grew by leaps and bounds!!


Leela 65
Govindrao Chandorkar was Nana's father. He, like his son, was a Deputy Collector and lived in his house' in Kalyan. Once it so happened, that there was some misunderstanding between him and the local Muslims. Upset with this, he told all his family members not to associate with any Muslims. His word was law at home.So, the family distanced themselves from their Muslim friends and neighbours. At that time, Nana was away on tour. When he returned, the family warned him about the turn of events, and informed him of his father's decision. This made Nana quite uncomfortable, as he knew that his father thought that his Guru, Sai Baba, was a Muslim. He racked his brains as to how to convince his father that Baba was neither Hindu nor Muslim, but far above that. He was uncertain of his father's response and he felt that he would rather die than to forsake Baba. Nonetheless, he told his father that he would like to discuss something with him. He couldn't believe his ears when his father said, " My Guru is Sakharam .Maharaj, but he isn't your Guru, and Baba is. So even if Sai Baba is a Muslim, he is still your Guru, and you may most certainly continue worshipping him. There is no objection from me on this." Nana gratefully thanked his father. He was overjoyed and amazed at the way Baba gripped his father's orthodox mind and changed it for the better. What was it that his Guru could not do?? Time and again, Baba has changed people's minds, nay, and their whole life!! Megha, the Gujarati Brahmin was sent to Baba by Hari Vinayak Sathe. But Megha was sure that he would descend into hell, because he would have to prostrate before a 'Yavan'. Baba to him was 'Avindha' (whose ears aren't pierced), living in the Masjid. Megha went to Shirdi because his master forced him to. Reluctantly, he went to Dwarkamai and Baba roared at him saying, "You are a high class Brahmin and I'm the meanest of mean - a Yavan. You will be polluted. So go back this very moment." This was a show of Baba's 'Rudra Roop'. He was waiting to develop Megha spiritually. This He did by working on him mentally and showing him Leela after Leela. Megha, on the other hand, was changed for life. He saw Shiva in the place of Baba, every time he did Arati. With utter devotion and concentration, he stood on one leg with the 'Pancharati' in the right hand and the bell in the left. He did Baba's Arati till his samadhi (death) in 1912. (Sai Satcharitra Ch 28)

AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI-PART 34

EXCERPTS INHERITED FROM THE BOOK,"AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI",
COMPILED BY:SAI BHAKT VINNY


Leela 62
Kaka Dixit wished to purchase some land from Laxman Bhat in Shirdi in 1910. Bhat demanded Rs.200/-, but Dixit was unwilling to pay that amount. He thought that Rs.150/- was a fair bargain. So he set about convincing Bhat. But, Bhat was adamant and Dixit was unwilling to compromise. A long discussion took place between them. That afternoon, Bhat was passing by the Dwarkamai. Baba called him and enquired about the discussion. "What discussion was going on between you and Dixit?" He asked. Bhat told Baba everything. Baba settled the matter by saying, "You may sell the land for Rs.175/-." Bhat went to Dixit to collect the money. Dixit as per his word gave Rs.150/- unknowingly, as he wasn't aware of the agreement between Baba and Bhat. Bhat also did not tell Dixit. He just took the money and went home. At home, he counted once, then again and again, to his surprise it was Rs.175/-, the amount that was settled by Baba. Be it an extra photograph or extra money, Baba sees that His devotees are satisfied.

Leela 63
Although his application for a government loan for Rs.500/- was rejected, a farmer didn't give up. He wanted the loan for a well on his land and so applied again with the same result, a rejection. Finally, he went to Baba for help. Baba patiently heard him, and turning to Nana, asked him to do the needful. Nana was then a collector, Chitnis. Nana said that he would try his best and present the application, but was doubtful about the acceptance. The farmer therefore applied and Nana presented the application to the collector. Nana also told him that a similar application was previously presented, only to be rejected twice. This aroused the curiosity of the collector in charge. He called the farmer and asked him, why he was so adamant. He also asked him to state the reasons clearly. The farmer said, "Sir, I owe Rs.500/-to the government and I am anxious to repay that amount. I can't do this till I have a well to water my lands and thereby get a better yield of crops. I started digging a well, but halfway through, there were huge rocks. These rocks have to be blasted, using dynamite and then removed. The workers stopped mid-way because of this. The work can't be completed. Thus, I can't get water. Without water, I cannot get a good crop. So, I can't sell and repay my debt. So, I pressed the government for this loan, though I have been disappointed twice before." The collector was thoroughly satisfied and the loan was granted.

AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI-PART 33

EXCERPTS INHERITED FROM THE BOOK,"AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI",
COMPILED BY:SAI BHAKT VINNY

Leela 60
Baba once asked Kaka to accompany Him to Nimgaon, knowing full well that his left leg was hurting. On that occasion, Kaka had such excruciating pain, that he could hardly limp, even a furlong. But Kaka being the perfect devotee, said, "Yes Baba", and got up. Kaka of course knew that his Guru had a plan for him. They both set out to Nimgaon, a distance of 6 km, to and fro. Over the dusty and bumpy road, they walked. But there was not a trace of pain in Kaka's leg. When Kaka came back to Shirdi, he found that the pain had completely gone.

Leela 61
In 1917, a 'Maha Mandal' in honour of the Bharadwaj Gotra was conducted in Babol village in Vengurla taluka, Ratnagiri. They invited Dabholkar to preside and become its president. As always, Dadbholkar consulted Baba who refused permission. The same thing happened the following year. So, he dropped the idea. Baba then appeared in his dream and told him to take up the position of president, the following year. So, he did just that. Dabholkar's daughter became mentally imbalanced and started clinging to her father. She would not listen to any body, but him. As president, it was required of Dabholkar to go to Babol. So, with Baba's permission, he left and returned in four days. During that period, his daughter was quite normal. But after his return, she relapsed again. To add to all this, she started getting convulsions and couldn't be controlled by anyone. Dabholkar was quite upset as his daughter was pregnant at that time and everyone was worried about the baby.
Being a kind and caring father, he got three famous gynecologists to examine her. Each of them advised a caesarian to safely deliver the baby, but thought that the mother's life maybe in jeopardy. The very next day, a doctor came to his home on his own accord and advised him to seek divine help. This was easy for Dabholkar and he at once prayed to Baba to help both mother and child. She then delivered a normal baby without the help of surgery or the doctors. After some time, both mother and child came to Shirdi. The merciful Baba blessed her and said that all would go well. After that, all her sufferings came to an end.

AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI-PART 32

EXCERPTS INHERITED FROM THE BOOK,"AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI"
COMPILED BY:SAI BHAKT VINNY

Leela 59

Ganeshji Mahajan of Sawantwadi worked as a clerk at Khatau Mahajan Mills, Bombay. He earned a meagre salary of Rs.15/- per month. To add to all this, he frequently fell ill with some malady or the other. His mother worried greatly and fervently hoped that her son would go to Shirdi and gain good health. Ganesh too wished likewise. But, he felt that he couldn't afford the trip. Once, the water pump in Shirdi required urgent repair. So, his mill manager, R.A.Tarkhad decided to send an engineer to Shirdi. The engineer seized the opportunity and decided to take his family with him. Mrs. Tarkhad, on hearing that the family was going, decided that she would accompany them. Tarkhad booked seats and made arrangements for both the families to go to Shirdi. Ganesh knew all this. So, on the date of departure, he came to V.T. station to see them off. He also brought some fruits, flowers and prasad to be offered to Baba. The families were comfortably seated, and there were just a few minutes for the train to depart. When Tarkhad asked Ganesh whether he would like to go, as one of the family members could not make it and there was a spare ticket. Ganesh couldn't believe his ears. He jumped into the compartment saying, "Yes! Yes! Of course I'll go!" Then he sent word to his mother about the wonderful news, at long last, his chance to go to Shirdi. His delight knew no bounds and he thanked his manager and Baba for making all the arrangements for the pilgrimage.He reached Shirdi, took Baba's Darshan. From that time, the illnesses took to their heels and he was in robust health.

AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI-PART 31

EXCERPTS INHERITED FROM THE BOOK,"AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI"
COMPILED BY:SAI BHAKT VINNY

Leela 58

His problem seemed to be insurmountable, as he earned very little, and had to look after his mother,so Janardhan M. Fanse, also known as Haribhau Fanse decided to give it all up. He informed his mother of his decision and decided to go to Rameshwaram. However, as Shirdi was on the way, he decided to go there and have Baba's Darshan. He stepped into the Dwarkamai and was enchanted to see Baba. Baba told him to return home as his mother was fasting and praying for him and she might die. However, Baba gave him some Udi at the time of departure. This he kept safely with him. On reaching home, he narrated what Baba said and his mother was convinced of Baba's divinity. Meanwhile, a villager approached him for help, as he was ill with cholera. Fanse gave him a little of Baba's Udi and he recovered. This led the villagers to think that he was a physician, and the people kept coming for aid. Soon, the Udi was exhausted and he wondered, what he could do next. But the epidemic also vanished. One day, he casually met a Marwari, who told him about his brother's plight. "My brother is seriously sick. He has tried doctor after doctor, but of no avail. Since you are a devotee of Sai Baba, you must see him. For if your Sai Baba is really so divine, he will cure him through you." Haribhau took one look at the patient and was horrified at his state. He quickly told the Marwari that his fees were very high and quoted Rs.200/- hoping that the Marwari would refuse. The amount far exceeded the fees of the civil surgeon. But the Marwari agreed. He was then in a real fix. He decided to slip away. But, he couldn't leave the village, as it was nightfall. He had now been pushed into a dark corner. As was his usual practice, he made preparation for Bhajan and prayer. To the utter surprise of the family, the patient himself did all the work. Throughout the Bhajan, the patient sat and looked at Baba's photograph with love and concentration. The Marwari was so pleased that he said, "Whether the patient dies or survives, you alone will treat him." This put Haribhau in a dilemma, and he did not know what to do. The compassionate Baba appeared in his dream and told him what the disease was, and what to prescribe and how to administer it. Haribhau did exactly that and the patient recovered. The Marwari gave the fees of Rs.200/-, but Haribhau would not rightly accept it, saying, "It was my Guru's grace." The Marwari was uneasy at this. So he bought a shawl worth Rs.200/- and left it at his residence when he was out. Haribhau returned, only to find the gift. He somehow, wanted Baba to have it. But, by that time, Baba had taken Mahasamadhi. With tears rolling down his cheeks, he prayed to Baba. That night he had a dream. Baba said, "There is famine all around, so sell the shawl and out of the money, buy rice. For the present, sell it below cost price till the rice runs out. After that, sell rice for a profit and you will be able to make a living." Haribhau did just that and became prosperous and was able to look after his mother comfortably. This Leela elaborates the power and the greatness of Baba's Udi. In Sai Satcharitra Ch. 33 and 34, Leelas are cited when Baba gave Udi and affected a cure. Be it Narayanrao of Nasik who used the ash from the incense sticks to treat the scorpion bite, as Udi wasn't readily available. Nana was enroute to Kalyan, when a father wanted some of Baba's Udi for his daughter, who had bubonic plague. Nana had no Udi at hand. So, picking some dust from the road, he fervently prayed to Baba and applied it to his wife's forehead. The man saw all this with amazement and only later found out, that she started recovering, the very moment, Nana applied the dust. The Jamner miracle, where Baba sent the Udi and Adkars Aarti to Nana through Ramgirbua to ease the delivery of Nana's daughter, is also very remarkable. Leela after Leela are given where Udi was given by Baba or some other devotee and was certain of a cure.

AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI-PART 30

EXCERPTS INHERITED FROM THE BOOK,"AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI"
COMPILED BY:SAI BHAKT VINNY

Leela 57

Bhimaji Patil of Narayangaon, Pune district was suffering a great deal with pulmonary tuberculosis. He tried all kinds of medicines; both hakims and vaids treated him. Then he prayed to various gods and goddesses who were propitiated, but of no avail. Even exorcising the evil spirits was tried. But the disease was relentless. Then Nana told him of the compassionate Sai. So, he went to Shirdi. Seeing him, Baba said, " The moment you put your foot in Shirdi, your sufferings have ended. The Fakir of this place is very kind. He will eradicate your disease and pain." (Sai Satcharitra Ch.13) It was Baba's word and it had to be followed to the letter.

Here is another Leela about pulmonary tuberculosis. Malanbai, the daughter of D.R.Joshi Devgaonkar suffered enormously from pulmonary tuberculosis. All sorts of treatments, remedies and poultices were tried, but nothing worked. Malanbai could not bear the pain and coughing bouts anymore. So, she insisted on being taken to Shirdi. Baba upon seeing her let off a volley of abuses and asked her to lie on a blanket and take nothing, but water by mouth. She stayed in Dixit Wada for a week, carefully following Baba's orders. Early one morning, she stopped breathing and died. Her family were moaning her loss and making preparations for her cremation. That morning, Baba did not leave the Chawdi, although it was past 8:00 a.m. It seemed that Baba was in one of His 'rage fits'. He shouted and shouted for no apparent reason. Hitting the floor with His 'satka', It looked as if He was driving away, some unseen object. Still shouting, He strode to Dixit Wada and paused a moment, shaking his 'satka' vigorously. Then just as suddenly, as He flared up, He calmed down and went away. The family was oblivious of Baba's actions, but as they were getting ready to bathe the body, they noticed the girl breathing. She opened her eyes and looked around frightened. She told the family what took place. " A demon-like black person was carrying me away, I was terrified and couldn't do anything. So, I called out to Baba to help me. He at once came and beat the black man quite badly. Then, He snatched me from his hand and carried me to the Chawdi." She gave a vivid description of the Chawdi, although she had not seen it. The family, hearing all this, shed tears of joy. Was it any wonder that Baba sat in the Masjid facing south? South, the dreaded direction, from which Yamraaj comes. But everyday and all day long, He sat, facing Yama. Not a moment was He without His 'satka',the 'magical wand', with which He could drive away the Yamdoot, or save Amir Shakkar from being bitten by the serpent (Sai Satcharitra Ch 22).With every stroke of the 'satka', He could quell the blazing 'Dhuni' when the flames roared and leapt to the ceiling (Sai Satcharitra Ch. 11).

Chandbhai Patil had lost his mare and though he searched diligently for her, he could not find her. Disappointed, he was returning back to Dhoopkheda, with his saddle. Under a mango tree, sat an Avalia, who called out to him and said, "Come here, smoke this chillum, then go. Rest a while." The loving tone and the benevolent presence drew Chandbhai Patil. He went to the Avalia who was getting ready to smoke His chillum. Two things were wanting; the coal to light the tobacco and water to wet the cloth. The Avalia struck the ground with His 'chimta' and out came a live coal. Then, taking His 'satka', He struck the ground and a stream of water flowed out (Sai Satcharitra Ch 5). This was Baba's first 'satka' Leela to the outside world. Though He had been using His 'satka' before and is still doing so.

Once, Mausibai was kneading Baba's stomach vigorously. When another devotee asked her to be gentler, hearing this, Baba got up and striking the 'satka' on the ground, rolled His eyes around. Then holding one end of the satka with both His hands thrust it into His stomach. The other end, He pushed against the pillar in front of Him. It seemed that the 'satka' was fast disappearing into His stomach. A little later, He calmed down and resumed His seat. The devotee learnt a valuable lesson of not interfering with anyone's seva to Baba. Baba Himself knew the depth of love and devotion that each devotee had for Him, and allowed seva accordingly (Sai Satcharitra Ch 24). This 'satka' Baba kept with Him at all times. Even today, His 'satka' is venerated and taken in procession in the 'palki' and 'rath' on Thursday and other holidays.

AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI-PART 29

EXCERPTS INHERITED FROM THE BOOK,"AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI"
COMPILED BY:SAI BHAKT VINNY


Leela 56
Keshav was the grandson of Hari Bhau K. Karnik. He went on a pilgrimage festival of the goddess Mahalaxmi. The village was about ten miles away from his residence and was situated on the banks of a river. During his stay there, he often swam in the river. Just before returning home, he swam and bathed as usual, went to the temple, took Darshan of the goddess and returned home. On the way, he noticed that his golden ring weighing 1.5 tolas was missing. With a heavy heart, he returned home. He was sure that it must have slipped into the river while bathing. About six months later, a Fakir came to his house and asked his grandfather whether his child had lost his ring in that very river. After ascertaining the identity of the ring, he returned it and left.

Two Gentlemen from Goa

One of the gentlemen was robbed of Rs.30,000/- He bemoaned the loss and sat on the verandah in great sorrow. On the 15th day, a Fakir came to his house and advised him what to do.
The money was recovered the very next day. (Sai Satcharitra Ch. 36) Could you believe that the Fakir in the Leelas given above was Baba??

AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI-PART 28

EXCERPTS INHERITED FROM THE BOOK,"AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI"
COMPILED BY:SAI BHAKT VINNY


Leela 55

He desperately prayed to Baba to help him

There was a devotee who was a clerk in the customs' office. One day a bundle of custom bills were checked and verified by his officer and given to him. He was sure that he had kept them safely in the drawer of his desk. Knowing that the officer would recall them later, he wanted to keep them ready on his desk. But to his utter dismay, there were not to be found. He made a thorough search, but could not trace them. He feared a reprimand, or worse still, the loss of his job. So he prayed to Baba. That day passed without his officer asking for the bills.
The next day, rather scared, he went to the office and found the bills neatly placed on his table. He racked his brains as to who could have done this, as he was the last person to leave and the first to enter the office. He remembered locking the office in the evening before leaving and opening it in the morning.
Who but Baba could have entered the closed office and done this!!

Megha and the Trident (Sai Satcharitra 28).
Baba had once asked Megha to draw a Trident in his dream vision. Megha woke up to find Akshata (sanctified rice) all over his bed. But the door was locked and bolted securely. How could this be, he wondered!
"No door is necessary for My entry. I've neither shape nor size. I'm always everywhere," said Baba to Megha when He asked him to draw a trident.

AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI-PART 27

BASED ON THE BOOK,"AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI"
COMPILED BY:SAI BHAKT VINNY


Leela 54

M.R.Tagare worked as a doctor for Sakarwadi sugar mills near Shirdi. In 1914, he wished to encash his war-bonds of Rs.2500/-. Thus, he proceeded to Kopargaon Post-office in a bullock-cart. He had a bag containing the war-bonds, kept at his side. En route, he was busy chatting with a fellow passenger. To his utter dismay, he noticed that there was no bag beside him. Thinking that it must have slipped and fallen on the way, he stopped the cart and went in search of it. He trudged back for about a mile or two, searching diligently for it. But, alas, the bag wasn't to be found. Disappointed and remorseful about this, he went to Kopargaon as he had to visit a sick friend. That night he couldn't sleep and tossed and turned, thinking about the loss. At midnight, he got out of bed and went and sat near Baba's photograph, praying for help. When he heard a voice saying, "Cease worrying." The voice reassured him and he fell asleep. Next morning, he made the 'house call' to his friend who lived in a village nearby. He examined the friend and prescribed the necessary medicine and sat a while chatting. He mentioned to his friend about the loss of his bag, en route. A little girl, standing nearby, ran and brought a bag, saying, "Is this the bag? It was found on the roadside yesterday." Thrilled, the doctor took his bag and upon examining the contents, found that the war-bonds were intact.

He mentally thanked Baba for His help.

AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI-PART 26

BASED ON THE BOOK,"AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI"
COMPILED BY:SAI BHAKT VINNY

Leela 53

Plague raged in Pimpalgaon, Baswanth, Nasik District. Waman C. Munge, a lawyer, moved his family to his farmhouse. One night, a theft was in progress in his house. The thieves had cleverly made a hole in the wall. Munge was sleeping peacefully, and on the wall above, hung Baba's photograph. One of the thieves entered the room and taking a small box that lay below the bed, passed it to his accomplice who was outside. The box contained cash of Rs.200/-, but had some promissory notes, worth Rs.4000/-. Next, the thief was in the process of lifting a huge trunk that was in front of the cot. This trunk was valuable as it contained the family jewelry, worth about Rs.10,000/-. Baba was watching all this from the photograph above the bed. At that very instant, Baba appeared in his dream, woke him and warned him of the theft. So, he started shouting at the top of his voice. His sister-in-law also joined him. The commotion woke the whole family, the servants and the watchman. They chased the thieves who escaped, or so it seemed. The next day, the small box was found, lying in the field nearby. The cash, however, was missing, but the promissory notes were intact. On that day, he had a dream vision, in which he saw Baba, Abdul and another Fakir (Abdul's Guru). Subsequently, he visited Shirdi and saw the Trio there. Some days later, Shri Datta Brahmachari of Kopargaon, visited him for lunch. He told Munge that the lost property was recovered. The police had raided a Marwari, and confiscated many stolen goods from him. The police officer also arrived at Munge's house and informed him of the raid. Subsequently, with proper identification, he recovered his money.

AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI-PART 25

EXCERPTS INHERITED FROM THE BOOK ," AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI",

COMPILED BY : SAI BHAKT VINNY

Leela 52

Vasudev Sadashiv Joshi of Sitaram Co. and his friend Chidambar Rao K. Gadge went to Shirdi for Baba's Darshan. They stayed in Sathe Wada and attended the Aarti that was conducted there. In the early days, there was Aarti in the Gurusthan also.While the Aarti was in progress, Joshi saw Narsimha Murthy in the photograph instead of Baba. He was delighted; but wonder of wonders, it happened for three consecutive days. On the day of their departure, Baba gave them Udi and Prasad. They thought that the Prasad would not suffice for distribution, when they returned to their village. Baba, knowing their thought, gave them eight annas and asked them to buy Prasad from any shop in Shirdi, as any Prasad bought in Shirdi was His Prasad.On another visit, Baba distributed 'burfi' for Prasad. They found it extremely delicious. So they thought they would buy some more. Baba told them that there were three baskets of prasad, so they could take three mounds from that. Happily they returned home with Baba's Udi and the 'burfi' Prasad.Some days later, Joshi gave Rs.10/- to his friend and asked him to give it to Baba as dakshina. He also made another request and that was to take a photograph of Baba and bring it back with him. Joshi wished to do ritualistic Puja to Baba. So, he wanted the photograph. Gadge left with Rs.10/- and went to the Dwarkamai, prostrated before Baba and gave Him Joshi's dakshina. He was silent, as he had not the courage to request permission for the photograph. Baba, too, was silent for a long time. Then just before his departure, Baba Himself asked Gadge to take His photograph. Overwhelmed with gratitude, he 'with consent photo' took two photographs of Baba, one sitting and the other standing. Baba told him that the photographs should not be sold for a profit. He then gave him permission to leave with Udi and Prasad.In Sai satcharitra Ch.33 the story of Balabua Sutar is given. He was a famous kirtankar residing in Bombay. Once, he went to Shirdi and took Baba's darshan. Baba said, "i have known him for the last four years." Balabua wondered at this, for it was his first visit to Shirdi. How could Baba have known him since four years? Why four years? He racked his brains, and then he remembered that four years ago, he made obeisance to Baba's photograph and the omniscient Baba mentioned it. He also got a valuable lesson that bowing to Baba's photograph was bowing to Baba in person. This lesson, he treasured forever.

AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI-PART 24

EXCERPTS INHERITED FROM THE BOOK ,"AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI",

COMPILED BY : SAI BHAKT VINNY

Leela 51

Once the daughter-in-law of Hari Bhau Karnik became mentally imbalanced. Karnik heard the sad news and set out to see her. She resided in Andheri, Bombay.He caught a local train to go and meet her. When the train reached Palghar, he suddenly saw a Fakir wearing a Kafni seated behind him. The Fakir said, "Lord Parmeshwar has created all varieties of trees, for their utilization by humanity. But they know little about their significance or use. I know them pretty well." Then pointing to one particular tree, He said, "If the leaves of this tree are ground and the juice given to a madman, he will be alright."Karnik was deep in thought and he was unaware of his surroundings. Only upon reaching Bandra did he snap out of his reverie. He looked around for the Fakir, but He wasn't there. Upon reaching his son' s home, he quickly procured the leaves of the tree and administered the juice to his daughter-in-law just as the Fakir had advised.'Lo! She became alright!'.Two years later, she had become mentally imbalanced again. He used the same leaves, and this time, she became all right for life.In Sai Satcharitra Ch. 7, a beautiful description is given of Baba being the famous Hakim of Shirdi. In the early days, Baba roamed about here and there, in the thickets, brambles and jungles. Most people thought that He roamed aimlessly. But the compassionate Fakir would go and collect indigenous plants, leaves and seeds. These he would use as a remedy and as cure for the numerous devotees who flocked to Him for physical relief.Once a devotee came to Him, as his eyes were red, painful and swollen. Baba took some crushed Biba seeds (marking nuts) and made two balls out of them. Then, He placed then on each eye and bandaged them. The next day, He removed everything and poured water over the eyes and behold, the eyes were clear and bright again.Shama suffered from Hemorrhoids (piles) and the pain and burning was severe. The compassionate Baba gave him a decoction of Sona mukhi (Senna pods) and he was relieved. Two years later, the condition reoccurred and Shama, on his own accord, took the same Senna pods, only to find the condition aggravated (Sai Satcharitra Ch.13).

AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI-PART 23

EXCERPTS INHERITED FROM THE BOOK ,"AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI",

COMPILED BY : SAI BHAKT VINNY

Leela 50

Kaka Dixit was a perfect disciple of Baba. He not only obeyed Baba's orders, but also tried to inculcate Baba's nature and lifestyle, so that one day he could be just like his Sadguru. Indeed, he succeeded with hard work.One evening, Kaka was returning home from his office. A strong able-bodied person came and asked for alms. Kaka however looked at His face keenly and was convinced that He was none other than his Sadguru. He at once eave Him some coins. The man on receiving the money just laughed and went away without asking for anything from any other person. Dixit watched Him till he disappeared. Dixit started for Shirdi on that very day. When he met Baba, he enquired about it. Baba simply said, "Yes! I did come to you in that form.".Dixit was extremely pleased to hear this.

AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI-PART 22

EXCERPTS INHERITED FROM THE BOOK ,"AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI",

COMPILED BY : SAI BHAKT VINNY

Leela 48

After taking darshan of Baba, Karnik wished to go to Pandharpur. So, at Kopargaon he bought a passenger train ticket. At Daund, he got out and waited for the train to take him to Kuridwadi and thence to Pandharpur. In the meantime he wanted to relieve himself, but could not leave his luggage unattended. A porter obliged him by showing him the toilet and waited by his baggage. The porter also told him to change his ticket for the mail train. Karnik gave the porter his ticket and the required money and asked him to purchase the ticket. "The mail will arrive in a few minutes, so you better sit in it," he said and went away. The mail did arrive and Karnik sat and waited. His fellow passengers were amazed at this and asked him "What will you do if he does not turn up?" Karnik replied that he had faith in him. Just as the train started moving and nearly pulled out of the station, the porter came running and handed over the ticket.What was there to worry about as he had left Shirdi with Baba's permission?

Leela 49

Marthand, a tailor in Shirdi, was desperate as he was ill and suffering a lot. There was no kith or kin or anyone else to take care of him. As a last recourse, he went and laid in the middle of the path that Baba took going to Lendi Bagh. The compassionate Baba told him, "Just go to Nimgaon and stay there".Marthand followed Baba's advice.He then went to Neemgaon, to Nanasaheb Dengle's home.Nanasaheb came out of his house at the opportune moment, and received him warmly. "Baba has already informed me of your arrival in a dream. You are welcome here, so please consider this your own home," said Nanasaheb. He treated Marthand well and nursed him back to good health. Marthand left being ever grateful to him and Baba. He returned to Shirdi and thanked Baba for His omnipotent mercy.

AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI-PART 21

EXCERPTS INHERITED FROM THE BOOK ,"AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI"

COMPILED BY : SAI BHAKT VINNY

Leela 46

There is one special characteristic of the pilgrimage to Shirdi. If a pilgrim returns home without Baba's permission he invites only trouble for himself, says Hemadpant (Sai Satcharitra Ch.9) nor could the pilgrim stay on if Baba gave His permission. On the other hand, if a devotee followed the advice of staying for the required time, or having a meal, though it seemed to be late or an unnecessary delay, the events proved to be fruitful as danger was averted, trains were caught and the journey was comfortable. Many such stories are given in Satcharitra. Here are a few others.He pestered Baba of and on for permission to go home, during his visit to Shirdi.This irritated Baba. So He told Baburao Aurangabadkar, "Do whatever you want. I will not bear any consequences". Aurangabadkar presumed that Baba had granted him permission to leave. He left in haste. All went well for about a mile, and then a terrible storm erupted. Thus he was stranded in the middle of the road, unprotected and at the mercy of the elements. He could proceed only the next day. After having learnt a lesson of disobeying Baba, Aurangabadkar could not forget how cold, wet, shivering and hungry he was stranded in the middle of nowhere.

Leela 47

Shama was devoted to Baba but he often took liberties with Him. Once he had go to the office of the Mamlatdar, on some official work. Baba forbade him to go. Nonetheless he left. Just as he crossed Nimgaon he saw the Mamaltadar proceeding to Shirdi. Shama was remiss for not heading Baba's words. So Shama turned back and accompanied the Mamltadar to Shirdi. Rather embarrassed he went to see Baba and asked for forgiveness. Khaparde, Butti and Dixit on the other hand

humbly obeyed Baba's words, however irrational it may seem and reaped the benefits.

AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI-PART 20

EXCERPTS INHERITED FROM THE BOOK ," AMBROSIA IN SHIRDI ",
COMPILED BY : SAI BHAKT VINNY

Leela 43

In 1915 Bapusaheb Butti once suffered immensely with high, unremitting fever of 105°.Thus weakened he could not Baba's darshan. Baba asked him to come to see Him on someone's back. Butti came to Baba in a very weakened state. When Baba made him sit down and gave him a feast of Payasam, Bajji, Daal, Usal (Indian cusine) and made him eat all these in His presence. After he part took the food, Baba asked him to go back to his lodging. Without any medicines the fever abated, simultaneously Baba fell ill. But as soon as Butti recovered, Baba also recovered. Thus Baba took the fever upon Himself.On Purandare's first visit to Shirdi, he requested his mother to accompany him. The day before the scheduled departure, his young daughter was ill with high fever. Nonetheless, he could not think of canceling his trip. He left behind, his mother, and wife, and the daughter in their care. On the third day of his stay at Shirdi, Baba appeared in his wife's dream and applied Udi to the child's forehead. At that very moment, her illness took a turn for the better and she began to improve and was well when he returned home.

Leela 45
There roamed a bull in Shirdi that was dedicated to Lord Shiva. This bull caused havoc of the village gardens and fields.It grazed wherever it felt like.The villagers met together and decided to send it to Yeola Pinjrapoli (asylum for old beasts). Funds were raised and the job of taking the bull to Yeola was entrusted to Bikku Marwadi. Bikku set out with the bull, but he did not go to Pinjrapole, but sold the bull to a butcher for Rs.14/-.Upon return villagers that the bull was left at the Panjrapoli. That night Baba appeared in the dream of Bayaji Bayaji Kote Kote and said, "You are enjoying sound sleep having left Me in the butcher's hand?" . The next day Bayaji informed the villagers of his dream and it was decided that he go to Yeola and rescue the bull. He went straight to the Pinjrapoli but the bull was not found there. So he headed right away to the butchers lane and made a diligent search there. He found the bull with the butcher.He requested the butcher to return the bull and told him the whole story. The butcher however, was unwilling to return the bull as he had bought it for Rs. 14/- from Bikku. Bayaji then gave him the money and took the bull to safe haven. He returned to Shirdi and told the villagers of his actions.They were quite upset over Bikku's breach of trust, so they prosecuted Bikku who had to spend two months in jail.