INTRODUCTION
In presenting this little compact book on
the occasion of 50th anniversary of Shri Sai Baba's samadhi, my feelings are
those that are described in the Bhagavadgita IX-26.
Whoso shall
offer Me in faith and love
A leaf, a
flower, a fruit, water poured forth,
That offering I
accept lovingly made.. ......
In the very spirit, this book is offered at the feet of Shri Sai Baba.
Many scholars had expressed a wish to be associated with the effort;
they were to send their essays for inclusion in the book. For one reason or the
other, it has not been possible for them to do so. The loss indeed is ours.
The date of publication had to be kept.
Mani
Sahukar's biographical sketch of Sai Baba serves as a suitable background a
sort of a " drop "-for all the articles that follow. Of special
merit is the essay on Shaktipata, an aspect of Kashmiri Shaivism, by Shri
Pandit of Shrinagar. It must be considered a great contribution to the understanding
of the divine lore from that northern most part of our country, Swami
Muktanandji writes with almost divine singularly lucky in being in the company
of Sai Baba. Kaka Kalelkar’s article proves striking by his rational thinking.
Shri Mantri's effort in reconsidering Mahatma Gandhi's teaching of ahimsa, is
welcome as coming from a representative of the rising generation. Dr. Pendse of
course is one of the great students of Dnyanadeva.
May I be
excused for referring to my own writing ? I have tried to present the Summum
bonum of the teachings of our leading poet-saints. With the active and
hearty cooperation from Vasant Desai and his artistes, the passages were
presented, fully aided by the performing arts, for a better understanding of
the spiritual import.
The programme
was presented as part of devotional music on 11th-13th Oct. 1968 at the St
Xavier's College Gymkhana Grounds. In other words, this is a readable version
of the feature-like performance. Without reserving any rights, this is an
offering to the Public. They may use it, enact it, read it in and derive spiritual
benefit from it. I shall be happy if some one improves upon it. I am once more
sorry, I have said so much about my own writing.
All this is now
laid at the feet of Shri Sai Baba.
Chitrakut,
BOMBAY, 10th Oct. 1968