Tag: Shirdi Sai Baba

Sai Baba of Shirdi was an Indian guru and fakir, who is regarded by his Hindu and Muslim followers as a saint. In his life and teachings he tried to embrace and reconcile both faiths: Sai Baba lived in a mosque, was buried in a Hindu temple, embraced Hindu and Muslim practices, and taught using words and figures that drew from both traditions.

Sai Baba was worshipped as a living God by His Hindu devotees and was praised as Sadguru, ParaBrahma and Yogiraj. He was considered as One with all Gods and Gurus (devotees of Sri Rama, for example, saw Sri Rama in Him).

Early years

Although Sai Baba's origins are unknown, some indications exist that suggest that he was born not far from Shirdi in a village called Pathri with the name Haribhau Bhusari.

Sai Baba was notorious for giving vague, misleading and contradictory replies to questions concerning his parentage and origins, brusquely stating the information was unimportant. He had reportedly stated to a close follower, Mhalsapati, that he has been born of Brahmin parents in the village of Pathri and had been entrusted into the care of a fakir in his infancy. On another occasion, Sai Baba reportedly said that the fakir's wife had left him in the care of a Hindu guru, Venkusa of Selu, and that he had stayed with Venkusa for twelve years as his disciple. This dichotomy has given rise to two major theories regarding Sai Baba's background, with the majority of writers supporting the Hindu background over the Islamic, while others combine both the theories (that Sai Baba was first brought up by a fakir and then by a guru).

First Period in Shirdi and Disappearance

Sai Baba reportedly arrived at the village of Shirdi in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, India, when he was about sixteen years old. Although there is no agreement among biographers about the date of this event, it is generally accepted that he stayed in Shirdi for three years, disappeared for a year and returned permanently around 1858. He led an ascetic life, sitting motionless under a neem tree and meditating. The people of the village were wonder-struck to see such a young lad practicing hard penance, not minding heat or cold. By day he associated with no one, by night he was afraid of nobody. His presence attracted the curiosity of the villagers and the religiously-inclined such as Mhalsapati, Appa Jogle and Kashinatha regularly visited him, while others such as the village children considered him mad and threw stones at him. After some time he left the village, and it is unknown where he stayed at that time or what happened to him. However, there are some indications that he met with many saints and fakirs, and worked as a weaver; he claimed to have fought with the army of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi during the Indian Rebellion of 1857.

The Return to Shirdi

In 1858 Sai Baba returned to Shirdi with Chand Patil's wedding procession. After alighting near the Khandoba temple he was greeted with the words "Ya Sai" (welcome saint) by the temple priest Mhalsapati. The name Sai stuck to him and some time later he started being known as Sai Baba. It was around this time that Sai Baba adopted his famous style of dress, consisting of a knee-length one-piece robe (kafni) and a cloth cap. Ramgir Bua, a devotee, testified that Baba was dressed like an athlete and sported 'long hair flowing down to his buttocks' when he arrived in Shirdi, and that he never had his head shaved. It was only after Baba forfeited a wrestling match with one Mohdin Tamboli that he took up the kafni and cloth cap, articles of typically Sufi clothing. This attire contributed to Baba's identification as a Muslim fakir, and was a reason for initial indifference and hostility against him in a predominantly Hindu village. According to B V Narasimhaswami, a posthumous follower who was widely praised as Sai Baba's "apostle", this attitude was prevalent even among some of his devotees in Shirdi, even up to 1954.

For four to five years Baba lived under a neem tree, and often wandered for long periods in the jungle in and around Shirdi. His manner was said to be withdrawn and uncommunicative as he undertook long periods of meditation.

Moving to a Mosque and Receiving Visitors

He was eventually persuaded to take up residence in an old and dilapidated mosque and lived a solitary life there, surviving by begging for alms and receiving itinerant Hindu or Muslim visitors. In the mosque he maintained a sacred fire which is referred to as a dhuni, from which he had the custom of giving sacred ash ('Udhi') to his guests before they left and which was believed to have healing powers and protection from dangerous situations. At first he performed the function of a local hakim and treated the sick by application of Udhi. Baba also delivered spiritual teachings to his visitors, recommending the reading of sacred Hindu texts along with the Qur'an, especially insisting on the indispensability of the unbroken remembrance of God's name (dhikr, japa). He often expressed himself in a cryptic manner with the use of parables, symbols and allegories. He participated in religious festivals and was also in the habit of preparing food for his visitors, which he distributed to them as prasad. Sai Baba's entertainment was dancing and singing religious songs (he enjoyed the songs of Kabir most). His behaviour was sometimes uncouth and violent.

After 1910 Sai Baba's fame began to spread in Mumbai. Numerous people started visiting him, because they regarded him as a saint (or even an avatar) with the power of performing miracles. His followers built then his first ever temple at Bhivpuri, Karjat.

Mahasamadhi

Sai Baba took Mahasamadhi on October 15, 1918 at 2.30pm. He died on the lap of one of his devotees with hardly any belongings, and was buried in the "Buty Wada" according to his wish. Later a mandir was built in this site known as the "Samadhi Mandir".

Notable disciples

Sai Baba left behind no spiritual heirs and appointed no disciples. In fact, he did not even provide formal initiation. Some disciples of Sai Baba achieved fame as spiritual figures like Upasni Maharaj of Sakori and Meher Baba of Ahmednagar. After Sai Baba passed away, his devotees offered the daily Aarti to Upasani Maharaj when he paid a visit to Shirdi, two times with an interval of 10 years.

Reported Miracles

Shirdi Sai Baba performed many supernatural acts, including bilocation, exorcisms, curing the incurably sick, and reading the minds of others.

Numerous inhabitants of Shirdi talked and wrote books about witnessing Sai Baba in unusual yogic power acts: levitation, entering a state of Samādhi at wish, removing his limbs and putting them back to his body (Khanda Yoga) and doing the same with his intestines.

According to his followers he appeared to them after his death, in dreams, visions and in bodily form, often gaving them advice.

Baba Panduranga was born on 29th May 1965 (Vaikasi-Bharani) and was named as “Suresh” by his parents. As a child, he grew up as normal as everybody else. But, at the age of seven, due to the punyakarma of previous births and to the astonishment of everyone, this child was bestowed the Pratyaksha Dharshana (physical appearance) of Bhagwan Shirdi Sai Baba. Baba blessed the child with his divine glance. Baba willed to make this child his instrument and passed his divine hands over the child's head for some time. Then Baba disappeared saying “We will meet again”. Over the next few days, unknown to himself, this experience induced the child to lead into the spiritual line. On 26th May, 1985, in keeping with his assurance, Shirdi Sai Baba appeared before the child. Shirdi Sai Baba adopted Baba Panduranga as his son and initiated him formally. Shirdi Sai Baba bestowed spiritual powers on Baba Panduranga and this enabled him to step into the spiritual life, to serve the suffering mankind.

By the grace of Shirdi Sai Baba, Baba Panduranga had the dharshan of ancient Rishis and of Deities who live in lesser-known worlds. Also Shirdi Sai Baba appeared in his original form; “Lord Dattattreya” and gave him Yogic Initiation. Sai Baba promised to be in and with him. Then Sai Baba disappeared into him in the form of light. From then on, Baba Panduranga would be merged with Shri Sai for long hours in Samadhi and experience higher meditative states. Subsequently, many secrets in the path of Yoga and Gnana were revealed to him. This led to several changes in his life. Serving and living with his father and Guru, Shirdi Sai Baba for 20 years and on, Baba Panduranga gathered ample of spiritual experiences.

Spiritually, Baba Panduranga serves the mankind to alleviate their mental and physical sufferings. He also spreads the greatness and messages of the “Universal Master Bhagavan Shirdi Sai Baba” in a silent manner without much ado. Baba Panduranga carried out many yogic practices instructed by his guru. Baba Panduranga ever feels the presence of his guru. His Guru takes care even of his daily routines. He was trained and caretaken by most of the spiritual masters, who live even after casting off their mortal bodies. Baba Panduranga's Father-Guru introduced him into the system of Datta Yoga Sampradaya. Baba Panduranga was also initiated into Sanyasa. Shirdi Sai Baba named him “Sai Panduranga Datta Saraswathy” in the parampara of Avadhutha. Presently, Baba Panduranga serves as an instrument of Shirdi Sai Baba to alleviate the sufferings of mankind.

Now, these facts about Baba Panduranga are revealed so that they reach out to the world, thereby helping the people overcome the suffering encountered by them in their daily life and grace of Shirdi Sai Baba. This service is rendered to all irrespective of religion, caste or creed. Anyone who happens to meet Baba Panduranga can feel the greatness of Shirdi Sai Baba.

Born in a respectable family, Narasimhan studdied law and blossomed into an upright, honest and leading lawyer. Known in Salem as B.V.Narasimha Iyer He engaged Himself in all social activities of Salem, thus becoming Chairman of Salem Municipal Corporation. He was elected as Member to Madras Legislative Council. He was a fiery patriot having joined in Home Rule Movement.

A domestic tragedy promted Narasimha Iyer in 1921 to ronounce samsaric life and began search for Truth. After tapas at the feet of Bhagavan Ramana Maharshi in Thiruvannamalai, pilgrimage to many places and contacts with many saints, He ultimately attained His goal at the Samadhi Mandir of Shri Shirdi Saibaba at Shirdi.

As commissioned by Baba, Narasimha undertook Sai Prachar and in two decades made Saibaba's name a household word. He wrote numerous books on Shri Saibaba which are published by All India Sai Samaj, He was the founder President from 1947-56.

Sri Radhakrishna Swamiji was born in Poyyamani Village in Kulithalai Taluk of Trichy District of Tamil Nadu on 15th April 1906. He was the fifth child of Sri Pudukkudi D. Venkatarama Aiyer and Smt. Lakshmi Ammal. Even as a child, young Radhakrishna had developed Psychic power and divine influence. He was a nature lover and it accentuated and kindled his spiritual thirst and development. He began meeting Sadhus and Holy Persons and visited temples far and near besides reading books on religion and the great saints and seers of India.

Search for a Guru

The Kanchi Mutt and Kanchi Acharya had a great influence in moulding Radhakrishnan's personality. When one of his brothers was in Poona, young Radhakrishnan stayed with him and made extensive tours of religious places in and around Poona. He lived in one of the caves for 48 days and on the 46th day, Dattathreya appeared before him and asked him to remain in the world helping others.

Radhakrishnan came to Ooty in 1921 and he was there till 1942. He had abandoned his studies. He stayed with his elder brother. The two brothers used to go on long walks and had discussions on spiritual matters for hours together. He used to spend some time daily in the Shiva temple built by the family alongwith his family members. He used to identify himself with Radha and Krisha and Andal and taking their roles he would dance in ectasy during bhajans. He loved music and he used to sing Thyagaraja and Purandhara Dasa "Kirthans". He was a lover of Astrology. He widely read books on saints like Raghavendra, Sadashiva Brahmendra, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu etc.

He met Ramana Maharshi and Seshadri Swamigal at Thiruvannamalai. The latter gave Radhakrishnan three stones and asked him to cook and eat them. The former interpreted this that he should go beyond the realms of "Sattva", "Rajas" and "Tamas", to become a "Gunatheetha".

In 1927, he met Narayana Maharaj of Khedgaon at Ooty. He initiated him into "Datta Mantra". In 1942, he met Sri Narasimha Swamiji and his search for the "Guru" was over. He became a spiritual heir to Sri Narasimha Swamiji.

Marriage and Youthhood

In 1927, he married Parvathi-a relative from his mothers side. He was against marriage but submitted to parental pressure. He led a family life which was like a drop of water on the lotus leaf. When he took Sanyas many years later the shock was severe to his wife and the family but they accepted the inevitable. His wife who led a secluded life, never met him again and passed away in 1979.

There was a deep Psychological Crisis in his life during 1936-42. He had even contemplated suicide while travelling on a train from Trichy to Madras. As the train was crossing the Coleroon River near Chidambaram, he opened the door and was about to jump into the river when he felt somebody was pulling his back. He saw an old man with a headgear asking him not to do it as he had a mission in life. Later, he realised that it was Baba.

Meeting the Guru

In 1942, Radhakrishnan met Sri Narasimha Swamiji in dramatic circumstances. It is not known when exactly Radhakrishnan came to Madras after he accepted Sri Narasimha Swamiji as his Guru. It maybe in 1943 or 1944.

At Chennai

He was a voracious reader and his favourite haunt was the Theosophical Society at Adayar, Chennai. He used to practise meditation and a Sanskrit book "Mantra Mahodari" was his constant companion. He supervised the accounts of All India Sai Samaj and helped Sri Narasimha Swamiji in other ways in his pesonal and public work. He was a man who never pushed himself up. His surrender to Sri Narasimha Swamiji was total. "Whatever Narasimha Swamiji said was law to him".

In 1952, Sri Narasimha Swamiji deputed Radhakrishnan to Bangalore for Sai Prachar work in Karnataka. It was in 1953 Sri Narasimha Swamiji conferred the title "Saipadananda" on him. That was the Guru's accolade to his devoted disciple. The Guru attained "Nirvan" on 19.10.1956 and on that Poornima Day transferred all his "Spiritual" powers to Radhakrishnan. Sai Baba gave Self Realisation to Sri Narasimha Swamiji on 29.8.1936. That Sai treasure was given in toto to Sri Radhakrishna Swamiji on the day Sri Narasimha Swamiji cast off his mortal coil.

Swamiji at Bangalore

Sri Radhakrishnan Swamiji arrived in Bangalore in 1952. By 1956 Swamiji shifted his lodging to an upstairs room in a house near the N.R. Colony bus stop. This also became the home of Sai Spiritual Centre and here Swamiji lived for about seven years until a permanent building for the centre was contructed.

A retired official of the Mysore Government, Sri Domlur Krishna Murthy, had earmarked a plot of land of 1000 square yards in Thyagarajanagar for a building to propagate the teachings of Sai Baba. Sri V.S.Sastri, who held the site in trust, had collected some funds and had laid the foundation for the construction of the prayer hall with two rooms. Impressed by the activities of Sai Spiritual Centre under the guidance of Sri Radhakrishna Swamiji, he handed over the site to Swamiji in 1961. Funds for a building on the site came from devotees all over India. The building was formally opened on June 17, 1965. The centre was registered on May 6, 1970.

Swamiji's Mission

Swamiji lived a full and active life. He was constantly travelling and propagating Sri Sai Baba's Teachings. He was in tune with Sai Baba all the 24 hours and his actions were in response to its motivations. There is hardly a devotee of Sri Swamiji who has not experienced his grace either spiritually or in material benefit. The devotees continue to recieve it even after he left his body.

Swamiji was waiting for "Uttarayana' to leave his body. January 14, 1980 was the day he had fixed for merging with Sai Baba. He had joined devotees in chanting "Sri Vishnu Sahasra Namam" and, "Om Namo Narayanaya". Swamiji was conscious till the last and the final moment came at 10.40 p.m. as he drew his last breath with a farewell benediction. He was cremated the next day with full honours amidst chanting of Vedic Hymns.

Although he is not present in flesh and blood, his devotees have felt his spiritual presence and his guidance, in times of distress and want. Many have spoken of seeing him in their dreams, encouraging them and advising on their problems. His guiding hand and loving eyes hover over every home of his devotees reminding us of Baba's Words: "Why fear when I am here".

Sadhguru Sainadhayanamaha.In those days, with the divine blessings of
Sri Shirdi Sai,Hemadripanth and Dasagunu maharaj took upon the task
of spreading Shirdi Sai's philosophy, much earlier to Baba's attaining
Mahasamadhi.Later many devotes continued the tradition by adopting
three methods i.e. by writing about Baba's Leelas,by singing songs
praising Baba and by delivering discourses on His saintliness,
including the human touch practiced and preached by Baba to utmost
perfection.

Presently, one of His devotees, Sri Ravada Gopala Rao, well known by
many people and fondly addressed as SAI BANISA is devotedly engaged in
spreading Shirdi Sai's philosophy by delivering discourses about Sai Baba.

He was born in the year 1946 to Smt Ravada Venkata Ramanamma and
Ravada Venkata Rao.He took voluntary retirement from Government
Service at the age of 54 yrs and since then he is working for the
noble cause of spreading Shirdi Sai's philosophy. He started
delivering discourses in India and abroad in his mother tongue Telugu
as well as in English, Which were well received.

He delivered lectures on "Sai Tatva" in English at Chicago in the year
2000 and at Orlando in the year 2003 in United States of America .He
was invited there for delivering lectures on Shirdi Sai under the
auspices of "SAI UTSAV" organised by Vishwa Sai Bhakta Sammelan.

He is bestowed with the unique quality of taking references from the
great Epics and Mythology and the art of co-relating them with the
incidents drawn from Sri Sai Satcharita, authored by Hemadripanth,
with convincing examples. He is a widely read man with sufficient
insight into the inner depths 0f the life style of the great Saint of
our times –Shirdi Sai Baba.

To understand Sri Sai Baba is easy only for his devotees. One can read sri Sai Satcharitra writeen during the life time of sri sai baba (and published by Sri Sai Baba Samsthan, Shirdi)and understand Sai to an extent. Without reading Sai Satcharitra and without hearing the leelas of sri sai baba from anybody the great devotee who realised Sri Sai Baba on 1-7-1939(at Dharmavaram in Anantapur district now in Andhra Pradesh)in a few hourse after merely hearing the name of Sri Sai Baba is Swami Kesavaiahji.

Revered swamiji was born on Sravana Bahula Amavasya day of Hevalambi year, at the end of the nineteenth century. His father Sri Swami Balaiah was a ryot and a devout hindu. A peculiarly religious temper seems to have taken powerful hold of Swamiji's mind, and it continued as the ruling principle throughtout his life. He preferred charity to the breaking of coconut in the temple. In his school days he stood first in the bible classes and had a vision of jesus christ. He learnt the koran and had a vision of prophet Mohammed. He met mystics like sadhu sunder singh. Though a non-believer in temple worship and Idolatory,he had the unique privilege of being blessed by lord Muruga at Palani, where he was advised to go on a pilgrimage, after his daughter was cured. His commonsense was strong and his power of observation was keen. Sooth-sayers predicted his sainthood. Swamiji began his life as clerk in the registration department in the composite state of madras. Very soon, he was a sub-registrar and earned for himself a good name. He was sympathetic to the poor and people described him as a "saint sub-registrar". His superiors recognised his worth and paid encomiums and credited him with the coveted red entries, six times. He was a kind hearted house-holder, honest and hardworking officer coupled with integrity and character.

Wonderful was the grace and kindness of Sri Sai Baba for he drew the devotees to him, or how else Sri Swami Kesavaiahji, the working at Dharmavaram would know him? By the grace of Sri Sai Baba he became a " Kripa Siddha ", Overnight , on 1-7-1939. Then he was ready to diffuse and preach the teachings of his master to the humanity. All the "Siddhis" were at his command. He neither practised nor craved for them. They flowed in profusely naturally by the grace of Sri Sai Baba. He never made a show of his worth. If anybody went to see him, to have his Darshan, he sometimes even without being asked, would give very liberally his spiritual wealth, just as the sacred Ganga flowing from the matted locks of lord Shiva, sanctified the Indian soil.

Sri Sai Baba's grace flowing through Swami Kesavaiahji, bestowed on thousands with physical well-being, mental peace and spiritual enlightenment. There were many who worshipped Sai for a long time. Swamiji did not go in search of Sai Baba. Baba came in search of him and made him an instrument to convey his grace to the humanity. The choice was appropriate and was well proved by Swamiji's service to the devotees during the last four decades. On 7-4-1941 he came to penukonda on transfer. Swamiji's puja's of Sri Sai Baba on thursdays, at penukonda, attracted many. Sri s. Subba rao, pleader, gooty, wrote in " Sai Leela Masik" for april, may, june 1943, about swamiji that "he has acquired marvellous powers by baba's grace. He foretells events with mathematical accuracy, cures diseases by mere touch and transfers the sick people's diseases to himself. In addition to daily worship, he performs special worship on every thursday, which is attended by hundreds of persons. As soon as devotees enter the puja room, his look at baba's picture, tells him the grievances for which they have to him, together with necessary remedies for the same. When he speaks to them in worship room, he is not conscious of himself as baba is in him. He does not do anything without baba's permission. If devotees are not able to go to him, and write letters to him about their ailments and wordly worries he places them in front of baba's picture during the time of worship and gets correct answers by a mere look at baba's picture, and promptly sends replies. Baba talks to him through the picture, through dreams and in a variety of ways and helps him always to do humanitarian work without prejudice to his official duties. Within a short period of about 16 months, he has received about not less than 2000 letters each of which has beeb promptly and correctly answered. Many persons coming or writing from distant places like madras. Bangalore, Mangalore, Calcutta, Ceylon, Japan And Burma had their desires gratified and miseries removed".

In 1948, swamiji got a temple constructed for Sri Sai Baba of Shirdi at Penukonda. Then he fell sick and came to madras for treatment. Since1949, after his miraculous recovery, swamiji had conducted Thusday pujas at "Sai Nilayam", Shenoy Nagar. Occupied a high position in the country. Thousand of devotees gathered on these days, in pin drop silence seeking relief from spiritual and bodily worries. Is it necessary to invite bees to suck honey from flowers ? That spoke volumes of his great selfless spiritual work and proved that the swamiji was sustained and supported by the great power of Sri Sai Baba. Sai ram’s merciful glance was the strength behind him. In puja, swamiji gave baba’s udhi, ( sacred ash got from shirdi), as prasad, which was gratefully received by the devotees and acknowledged as a panacea for all ills and woes which afflict mankind. In the year 1945, late sri B.V.Narasimha swami observed that "numerous instances are founf in the pages of "Sai Sudha" evidencing the wonderful accuracy of several of sri S.B. Kesavaiah’s predictions. If they were all invariably true, one would begin to identify him with Sri Sai Baba. Sri S.B Kesavaiah is frank enough to admit that a few powers (within limits) do not make him a sai. We must applaud him for his humility, candour and truthfulness."

It was not without basis and reason that the late Sri Narasimha swamiji declared that " if a hundred out of a thousand people get benefit by listening to me 900 people get benefit by attending swamiji Kesavaiahji’s puja. After puja, he tells of future events in a remarkable way". One is so much overawed with the Swamiji’s magnetic personality and purity of life and with his motto of service to sick and sufferings with spiritual powers, that one forgets himself and cannot resist the spontaneous urge of offering his obeisance to him. The Darshan of a real saint is a golden event in the life of a real Sadhaka. Swamiji’s touch on one’s forehead with Baba’s udhi gave a thrill to the devotee and mystically his worries and anxieties vanished. He kindled the sparks of spirituality among all those who came into contact with him. The great always bestow blessings on those who are meek and humble. Swamiji transmitted his staunch faith in Sri Sai Baba, as the supreme force on the Earth, to all who went to him . Swamiji required no particular place or time to invoke Baba and give Udhi and convey Baba’s blessings. He visualised a stage , and that vision was so clear in his mind that he felt he was sitting and meditating by the side of Sri Sai Baba.

Saints are verily the living gods on earth. They are bestowers of liberation. The Saints have not failed any one so far. The saints always condescend and fulfil devotee’s desires. Service to a saint will not go in vain. Anything given in the service of a saint will grow infinitely. If you sow a grain, it is returned thousand fold. Yogis can see beyond the vision of ordinary men. Swamiji was a great saint and a yogi. He was aware of the desires of all, hence there used to be no questioner among his audience. Before they could ask him he used to answer them. The real saints are like lotus leaves. The water of common human desires did not stick on, to tarnish the spirits of Swamiji. Saints relieve our pain, remove our difficulties but will not interfere usually in the course of nature even though they are able to do it. When it was reported that there was no rain at Dharmavaram, Swamiji prayed to Sri Sai Baba. Lo ! there was plenty of rain. It was also a common experience of thousands of devotees that there used to be rain throughout the city of madras but there was no rain in Shenoy Nagar, This was to enable the devotees to participate in the Maha Samadhi day celebrations of Sri Sai Baba and return home safely.

The sage of Shenoy Nagar protected all, even the crooked and the sinful, when they were repentant. Even the punishment inflicted on devotees was only to correct them. It was the experience of the devotees that their difficulties vanished by simply remembering him. He was no ordinary man. Tukaram says, even particles of dust attached to the feet of saints would work miracles. Swamiji often said that, "Even if I take 128 births more, I cannot become Sri Sai Baba. I am only His devotee. I visited Shirdi 73 times. The joy I had experienced is beyond words. It is difficult to understand Sri Sai Baba of Shirdi. All saints are one. Service to sufferings humanity is Baba’s Dharma. He taught catholicity of religion. Everyone should serve and help others to his capacity. It is only the good we do, that accompanies our souls. Hatred and jealousy should be forbidden. Honesty and truthfulness are a must. God recedes from those who are dishonest and untruthful. Character and truth are essential. Truth and righteousness alone save us. The ignorant youth is running away from religious and moral discipline because he gets no religious education either at home or at school to mould his character. Now-a-days science and politics are considered to be the ‘Be all and end all’ of man life. The responsibility to teach their children, the devotion to god, reverence to one’s guru, obedience to their elders and to make them speak truth always is on the mothers.’

In ordinary life, Swamiji was simple and unostentatious. He wore a milky white jubba, a white dhoti and an upper cloth. He spoke so softly, affectionately and lovingly, that devotees felt unburdened the moment they saw him. After years of married life, many wondered how Swamiji who was a grihastha attained such spiritual powers. Perhaps it was only to establish, that celibacy, severe penance in caves and forests are not necessarily the pre-requisites to attain self realisation, that Sri Sai Baba chose Swami Kesavaiahji, an Adarsa Grihastha, as fully qualified to receive his benediction and made him an instrument to exercise his spiritual powers.

Like St. Paul, Swamiji was spreading the gospel of Sri Sai Baba sitting at " Sai Nilayam " Shenoy Nagar, Madras. ‘Sai Nilayam had been a spiritual centre shedding its lustre to hundres of people every Thursday. People were seen crowding to Shenoy Nagar by buses on Thursdays and form themselves into queues to get into the Shirne to pour out their feelings and get relief at the hands of H.H. Swami Kesavaiahji. That streams of men and women should flock in such numbers is a clear demonstration of the faith in prayers and its incalculable effect. Prayers is the golden chain that links god and man. Its powers have been abundantly proved in the lives of all great apostles, saints and sages all over the world, both East and West. There is nothing that cannot be achieved by prayer. It is in this, all embracing field of prayer that Swami Kesavaiahji was rendering yeoman service silently and most unostentatiously. There is no propaganda but there is the silent dedicated service in the spread of his Master’s Grace to all who seek His Grace.

Week after week the number of devotees participating in sai worship at "Sai Nilayam" at Shenoy Nagar began to increase rapidly. The people of Shenoy Nagar, Madras are lucky. Swamiji's heart overflowing with love for the devotees melted at the sight of these numberless devotees, exposed to unfavourable weather, like scorching heat, the biting cold of the winter and occasional drizzling to heavy showers of rain in the night. By the untiring efforts of Swamiji, the incessant urge among devotees to help and spread the divine Message of Sri Sai Baba everywhere, took shape and the Sri Sai Baba Bhaktha Samajam came into existence as Registered Body in the year 1959 with Swamiji as its Founder-Presedent. It has been the dream of Swamiji day and night , to have the prayer - Mantap there in the open spacious grounds situated in front of the 'sai Nilayam'. Whatever bubbled up in the mind of a saint, God Almighty fulfils it. 14th of march 1975 was a glorious days, which deserved to be recorded in letters of gold. We had the fortune of witnessing the opening of the magnificent edifice by the then Home Minister Sri K. Brahmananda Reddy and on the next day the meditation hall by the them Finance Minister Sri C. Subramaniam. Sri Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir dedicated to Sri Sai Baba is to radiate his grace from Shenoy Nagar, Thenceforth for centuries to come. Many devotees circumambulate the mandir everyday for certain number of times for a certain number of days, as instructed by Swamiji and get their desires fulfilled by the grace of Sri Sai Baba.
Apart from conducting Thursday-Poojas at the Mandir, answering devotees in person and through letters, celebrating the annual functions Sri Swamiji had been taking pains, at great personal inconvenience to visit various places outside madras to propagate Sri Shirdi Sai Baba's message. He founded samajams at secunderabad, Bangalore, Vijayawada, Vuyyur, Nalagonda, Kareemnagar and other places. He opened several mandirs of Sri Sai Baba of Shirdi at several places in the last four decades and the latest was at Vidyanagar, Nellore District, (A.P) in march 1981.

The most remarkable feature of Swamiji's life was he succeeded in reforming the character of some men and women whose morals were low. This was an incomparable benediction conferred on him by Sri Sai Baba. It looked as though the family surname of 'Swami' presages Sri Swami Kesavaiahji's spiritual eminence . Atheists have become theists and devotees of Sri Sai Baba. Swamiji, the chosen apostle of Sri Sai Baba, is revered and adored by multitudes of people of all rank and position. To the hundreds and thousands of devotees who go to him, Swamiji gave a soothing touch, a kind word, guidance, and comfort, Whether it was a personal problem or sickness or whatever it was, Swamiji got the message from Sai Baba. Swamiji has a unique personality in the realm of sai cult.

The spiritual centres he had founded for the worship of Sri Sai Baba of shirdi in the past four decades speak eloquently of the unlimited grace he was enjoying of Sri Sai Baba. Swamiji's tact and power of understanding and adapting himself to the devotees with whom he was dealing, were marvellous. He never expected a devotee to attain perfection at once. He was not surprised at the sight of human weakness. He was a perennial source of spiritual inspiration to his devotees, especially during these days when systematic attempts were made to deny the existence of God and to decry spiritual leaders by a section of the society.

In the last four decades he wrote several articles to the various magazines on Philosophy, Religion, Sri Sai Baba of Shirdi, Mission of Saints, Bhakthi, Prayer, etc., in simple and lucid style. These form a guide to the spiritual aspirants.

Sri Sri Prakasa, Governor of Madras, participating in Sri Sai Baba Mahasamadhi Day celebrations in the year 1955, warmly applauded the services of Swami Kesavaiahji to the community at large by following the example of his great master Sri Sai Baba.

In 1962, participating in Sri rama Navami celebrations Mr. Justice P. Ramakrishna Iyer, I.C.S., Judge, Madras High Court, said that he knew Swamiji for long and that he used to attend his puja many a time while he had been posted in Andhra. He said that he has always great regard and love for Swamiji and was benefitted much by his puja and Blessings. He further Said that "Swamiji is remarkable man in our country to whom spirituality came at very early age who had been inspiring a large number of educated people in the authentic religious way. We know the great spiritual work of our Ramana at Thiruvannamalai and Acharya Swami Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam Sri Sankaracharya at present . The work done by Swami Kesavaiahji in his own humble way can be compared to that of these God men. But for them we will be like blind men groping in the dark."

Dr. H. T. Vira Reddi, F.R.C.S., F.I.C.S., in an interview given to Sri M.S.Kotiswaran, M.A. (Columbia) in the year 1965 said since 1948 I am fairly in close touch with Sri Swami Kesavaiahji. He is the favourite devotee of Sri Sai Baba. He could see the destiny of others of Sri Sai Baba. he could see the destiny of others as one sees stars through the telescope. He could see the destiny of others as one sees stars through the telescope. He never lets any one down but likes all, even the worst person of the society. For instance, he is afraid of hurting even a diseased dog that comes near him. When he speaks about religion, one feels inspired by the admirable way he drives home his objective. It is only out of intense love for humanity he is eager that others should enjoy the same bliss that he happens to enjoy "Sri M. S. Kotiswaran writing in "My Pilgrimage" further said, Kesavaiahji seeks no princely pomp, no wealthy store and when asked why he does not move like whirlwind and catch the mass mind he answers that he has no orders from his Master. His duty was to carry out the task assigned to him by Sri sai Baba.

In the year 1975, participating in Guru Poornima Celebration, the Governor of Tamil Nadu, Sri K. K. Shah observed that he was very happy to find such a beautiful Mandir, calm, cool, collected, sober and which gave peace of mind and spiritual satisfaction. Any holy place should be clam and inspiring and he was happy that this mandir was one such place. He would love to come here any day for meditation and peace of mind. He was very happy to find more women than men in the gathering because women were the custodians of the culture of India. Swami Kesavaiahji deserved out respectful thanks, for the great spiritual ministration he had been carrying on in a spirit of dedicated service without any other motive."

In a foreward to a book, in the year 1976, Sri V. V. Giri observed, that " I had the privilege of knowing Sri Kesavaiahji from 1949. Swamiji's devotion and surrender to Sri Sai Baba is profound and complete. When at Penukonda, there was no place for the Bhaktas of Sri Sai Baba to meet in congregation. Swamiji threw his own house open for the purpose to his devotees' meetings from time to time. Swamiji is a leader of this great Sai Movement, with great distinction whose character, integrity and saintliness were recognised by all," Sri V. V. Giri further observed that the Swamiji;s life of truth, Purity and dedication had a profound influence on the life of citizens.

Smt. Jothi Venkatachalam, Governor of Kerala, Participating in Sri Rama Navami celebrations in the year 1979 said, "It is a privilege, blessing and a pleasure to preside over the Sri Rama Navami Celebration under the auspices of the Sri Sai Baba Bhaktha Samajam and participate on this great and holy occasion where all the devotees of Sri Sai Baba of Shirdi assemble for prayer under the guidence and leadership of Swami Kesavaiahji. I have been ssociated with the samajam as a devotee of Sai Baba for many years and have come here many times for the blessing of Sai Baba and Swami Kesavaiahji. The Samajam was founded by Swamiji with a view to spread the teachings of Sri Sai Baba and give his blessings to devotees which helped him to establish this great temple of spirituality. Ever since I came into contact with him, he was like a Guru to me and it is the same with all the people who came into contact with Swamiji."

In the year 1977 Shri M. Uttam Reddy, Chairman of the Samajam welcoming the devotees on Guru Poornima day said, "The magnificent Shrine we have today is the fulfilment of Swami Kesavaiahji's love for his devotees and will remain as a monument of his faith in Sadguru Sri Sai Baba." He also recalled the prediction of Swamiji, when Sri Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy visited the shrine in 1965, that he would accupy the highest position in the country.

Sri Prabhudas Patwari, the Governor of Tamil Nadu presiding over Guru Poornima Celebrations at Sri Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir in the year 1979, observed that he felt a different atmosphere--spiritual atmosphere--whenever he stepped in this magnifecent edifice of Sri Shirdi Sai Baba. He said, " I pray and wish that His Holiness Swami Kesavaiahji should live for more than hundred years not for his sake but for the sake of humanity."

In the last public meeting of Swamiji, on 16th of july 1981,the officiating Chief Justice of Tamil Nadu High Court, Mr. Justice P. R. Gokulakrishnan, addressing the devotees paid rich tributes to the qualities of head and heart of his Holiness Swami Kesavaiahji and said that "Swamiji's message of peace and his service to the society were unique. The Swamiji had become a guru to the thousands of followers of Sri Sai Baba."

Throughout his life he was known for his strict discipline. At the same time he had deep compassion for poor and always insisted on helping the down-trodden and chanting of "Sairam" or any name of the God at least for few minutes in a day. Whenever he went he set up Samjams and mandirs for Sri Sai Baba of Shirdi. He always stressed that people should be honest in their word, deed and thought. He emphasized the need for spirituality for orderly material progress. In his discourses, he always appealed to the womenfolk to bring up their children as model citizens. Swamiji was a Godman with a difference. He never claimed himself to be a Baba. On the other hand, he firmly believed that no one, however great he might be, could become Sai Baba. There is not another Ramadas. There is not another Raghavendra Swamy and there is not another Ramakrishna Paramahansa. he used to say. He was not a scholar in the worldly sense; but his words were pregnant with philosophical truths and spirituality. He was not a great orator; but his speeches were charged with devotion and sincerity and attracted huge audiences wherever he went. Although he is not seen now in his mortal form, his spirit remains immortal for the service of mankind. It pervades this universe and continues to guide the destinies of many of Sai devotees, who surrender to him heart and soul. This was his promise and prophecy. He was a saint of highest order, He was an embodiment of love, service, compassion and simplicity. He was a brilliant meteor which shone on the spiritual firmament of India in this century. Such pious souls very rarely appear on this wordly scene to remind us of higher values of life and to turn erring mankind to the right path.

This world is upheld by the veracity of such good and Godmen. They are the salt of this mother-earth and their lives spread fragrance of spirituality. With their life of devotion, service, sacrifice and purity they make this earth wholesome. May his life inspire us to be good and perfect in this very birth!

He is survived by a son and two daughters. It was at about 6-10 p.m., the sun had set on 9th August 1981 Sunday, Sravana Suddha, Dasami. He asked for Udhi. Took it, applied to his forehead and swallowed, said "Allah Malik" and closed his eyes, sitting. After 10 minutes he ws made to rest on the bed. At about 6-28 p.m. the sage of Shenoy Nagar left his mortal coils.

Glory to Sri Sai Baba and glory to the hallowed memory of his chosen devotee Sri Swami Kesavaiahji