Chief Patron

SAI DEEP magazine which was released on Sri Rama Navami Day 2002, is purely to give wide publicity among the Sai Devotees about Baba's leela's an'd Devotees Experiences. It is requested that Devotees who desire to send articles for publishing are requested to send it to the following address:

Shirdi Sai Prachar Seva Communication Centre,

46/19, Elango Salai, Teynampet,

CHENNAI-600018.

Tel: 2436 027,

This magazine will be published on every Sri Rama Navami Day, Guru Poornima Day, Baba's punniyathithi Day (Vijaya Dasami) and on New year Day regularly. As such Sai Devotees are requested once again to send articles on Baba's leela and also their experiences in Day to day affair and give your helping hand & support in bringing out the magazine in an appealing manner.

JaiSairam.

Editor,

Editorial board members does not accept responsibility for the views addressed in the articles published.

85^th SHIRDI SAI BABA'S MAHA SAMADHI Message

Baba's 85^th Maha Samadhi day falls on 5th October, Sunday 2003. He left His mortal coil at 2.30 p.m. Tuesday 1918. Very very interesting aspects are observed on this occasion of Baba's taking Mahasamadhi:-

Before leaving the body, Baba remembered Laxmibai's service. How could He forget her? Just before leaving the body, He put His hand in His pocket and gave her just Rs. 5/- and then Rs. 4/ - in all Rs. 9/-. This figure (9) is indicative of nine type of devotion described in chapter 21 of Sri Sai Satcharita or it may be the dakshina offered at the time of "Seemollangan". Laxmibai was a well-to-do woman, and so, she was not in want of any money. Baba might have suggested to her and brought to her notice, the nine characteristics of a good disciple, mentioned in the 6th verse of chapter ten, skandha eleven of the Bhagwat, where in first five and then four characteristics are mentioned, in the first and second couplets. Baba's this gift of nine, she will remember ever.

By this way Baba not only taught the lesson of Navavidha Bhakthi to Laximibai but also to all His devotees to adhere these by bringing closer the Guru-Sishya relations and also of good disciples.

1. It is said that He gave up His life to save His ardent devotee Tatya Patil's life. Tatya used to call Baba as Mama (uncle), because Baba used to call his mother Bayja Bai as His (Baba's) sister. What a great sacrifice !! Baba is Thyaga Moorthi. It is only possible for great divine personalities (Avatara Purusha) like Baba who can give up their life at their own will and again reappear at their will. Jesus Christ was crusified & He bore the cross for redemption of thousands of sinners. He again came to life after three days.

2. Baba gave up His life when Dasami thithi was ending and Ekadasi thithi started. Vijaya Dasami is considered vary auspicious to start any venture to gain VIJAYA (success, victory). Pandavas started their battles on this auspicious day against Kavaravas' (Qassmreurreru) and won the battle. This day is called "seemolangan" crossing the border line. Baba crossed the border line of His life (gave up the body) and merged in the "self (Para Brahma swaroopa). It is prescribed in the scriptures, When one dies on "Ekadasi day" he straightaway goes to heaven. Baba being God himself need not go to heaven etc., He Himself is heaven & giver of moksha (liberation) to His devotees. It is only a lesson taught to us viz:- the importance of dieing on "Ekadasi day".

3. Saints never die. They only enter into Mahasamadhi & appear in any form at any time, when devotees pray to them to give dharshan, with love & devotion. (Shradda & Bhakthi). Baba has assured His devotees as follows:- (before taking samadhi) "Believe Me, though I pass away, My bones in My tomb would be speaking, moving and communicating with those, who would surrender themselves whole-heartedly to me. Do not be anxious that, I would be absent from you. You will hear my bones speaking and discussing your welfare. But remember Me always, believe in Me heart and soul and then, you will be most benefited".

Baba appearing in many forms (as Rama, Krishna etc., as per the wishes of His Devotees, after Mahasamadhi also) as he appeared when he was in the flesh & blood & solves their problems. It is proved beyond that Baba is "APANTARATMA". (Ever living & helping His Devotees)

Baba had attained God hood (one with God Parabrahmam) because of His intense & exemplary devotion to His Guru. Baba Himself has narrated His Guru Bakthi (devotion to His Guru) to Mrs. Radhabai Deshmukh as follows:- There was an old woman, by name Radhabai. She was the mother of one Khashaba Deshmukh. Hearing Baba's fame she came to Shirdi with the people of Sangamner. She took Baba's darshan and was much satisfied. She loved Baba intimately and resolved in her mind that, she should accept Baba as her Guru and take some upadesh from Him. She determined to fast herself unto death, so long as Baba did accept her and give her any upadesh or Mantra. She stayed in her lodging and stopped taking any food or water for three days. I was frightened by this ordeal of the old woman and interceded with Baba on her behalf. I said, "Deva, what is this you have started? you draw so many persons here. You know that old lady. She is very obstinate and depends on you. She has resolved to fast unto death, if you don't accept and instruct her, if anything worse happens, people will blame you and say that Baba did not instruct her and in its consequence, she met her death. So take some mercy on her, bless her and instruct her". On seeing her determination Baba sent for her, and make her change her mind, by addressing as follows:

"Oh mother, why do you have to subject your self to unnecessary tortures? You are My mother and l am your child. Take pity on me and hear me through. I tell you my own story, which if you listen carefully, will do you good, I had a Guru. He was a great saint and most merciful. I served him long, very long, still he would not blow any mantra into My ears. I had keen desire, never to leave him, but to stay with and serve him, and at all costs receive some instructions from him. But he had his own way. He first got my head shaved and asked Me for two paise as Dakshina. I gave the same at once. You may say that, as My Guru was perfect, why should he ask for money and how should he be called desireless? The reply is that, he never cared for coins. What had he to do with them? His two paise were 1. Firm faith and 2. Patience or perseverance. ! gave these two paise to him and he was pleased".

"I resorted to My Guru for 12 years. He brought Me up. There was no dearth of food and clothing. He was full of love or say, he was love incarnate. How can I describe it? He loved Me most.

Rare is a Guru like him. When I looked at him, he seemed as if he was in deep meditation and then, we both were filled with bliss. Night and day, i gazed at hjm, with no thought of hunger and thirst. Without him, I felt restless. I had no other subject to meditate, nor any other thing than My Guru to attend. He was my sole refuge. My mind was always fixed on him. This Nishtha (firm faith) is one paisa of Dakshina. Saburi (Patience or Perseverance) is the other paisa. I waited patiently and served My Guru. This saburi will ferry you across the sea of this mundane existence. Saburi removes all sins and afflictions, gets rid of calamities in various ways, and casts aside all fear, and ultimately gives you success. Saburi is the mine of virtues, consort of good thought".

"My Guru never expected any other thing from Me. He never neglected Me, but protected Me at all times. I lived with him and was some times away from him still I never felt the absence of his love. He always protected Me by his glance, just as the tortoise feeds her young ones, whether they are near her or away from on the other side of the bank, by her loving glances. Oh mother, My Guru never taught Me any Mantra then, how shall I blow any Mantra in your ears? Just remember that Guru's tortoise - like loving glance gives us happiness. Do not try to get Mantra or Upadesh from, any body. Make me the sole object of your thoughts and actions and you will, no doubt, attain paramartha {the spiritual goal of life). Look at me whole - heartedly and I, in turn, look at you. Sitting in this Masjid, I speak the truth, nothing but the truth. No sadhana or proficiency in the six shastras, is necessary. Have faith and confidence in your Guru. Believe that, Guru is the sole Actor or Doer. Blessed is he, who knows the greatness of his Guru and thinks him to be Hari, Hara and Brahma (Trimurthijincarnate". (Sri Sai Satcharita, Chapter 18 & 19).

To conclude, Baba has kindly shown the way how to attain Guru's Grace & Blessings & to attain salvation, (self realization)

So, let us re-dedicate our selves on this auspicious 86th Mahasamadhi of Baba, by bowing his exemplary Guru Bakthi. Viz that we should also always remember him, meditate on him & chant his taraka Mantra "OM SAI SRI SAI JAVA JAVA SAI" constantly which is the easiest path to attain salvation (MUKTHI).

Most important is :- We must stick up to one Guru ie, our sanurtha sadguru Sai Sai Baba, who is our saviour, protector, succour and able refuge. (God). He fulfills our genuine desires and gives liberation easily as he has done in the case of Kaka Sahib Dixit. Then where is the necessity to go to so many pseudo Gurus and Babas; who only cheat (deceive) their devotees? Instead of guiding their devotees on the right path, they show them the way to hell. What a shame it is !!

JAI SAD GURU SAI NATH OM TAT SAT, OM SHANTI, SHANT1, SHANTIHI

R. Radhakrishnan

(Sai Jeevi)

THE MASTERS

Three Spiritual Masters occupied the Indian Scene between 1850 and 1950. First from the point of time was Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, followed by Sri Sai Baba and the last to arrive was Sri Ramana Maharshi. As Sri Ramakrishna's mission on this earth was coming to an end, Sri Sai Baba's influence was on the ascendant and by the time of Sri Sai Baba's Mahasamadhi, Sri Ramana's fame began to spread.

There could be no better examples of the difference in temperament, the paths'each followed and the upadesha each gave than the three spiritual masters who were supremely all pervading and all powerful. But in essence were they different?

Some aspects of their lives.

Ramakrishna Paramahamsa's face is distinguished by a child - like tenderness and pro-found humility. No one could look upon him unmoved. His attire was a half dhothi and a cloth on one side of his shoulder. His name was Gadhadhar, one of the names of Vishnu. As to, when he came to be called Ramakrishna is not known. Paramahamsa means a monk of the highest order. With regard to education he had practically none. He left schooling early in life to seek true knowledge. His father was a priest and with him he had learnt priestly duties. As he had no education nor any skill to make a livelihood, he was made priest at Kali's temple at Dakshineshwar. The daily service and worship of Mother Kali awakened intense devotion in Ramakrishna and there came a time when he could not carryon the regular service at the temple. He left the pri3St's work given to him and gave himself upto meditation.

Who was his guru? What was his spiritual sadhana? Mother Kali was his sole and supreme Guru and his personal God. He also realized the Impersonal and Absolute aspect of God with the help of Thothapuri Swamy. He began to preach when he was 40 years old. He conversed with devotees and visitors in rustic Bengali. To explain a philosophical point, he would use homely parables and illustrations obtained from observations of daily life around him.

Illustration;

In Dakshineshwar, the priest of Vishnu's temple broke the idol's leg. Should a new idol be installed? Or the same idol be worshipped? There was no agreement, even pandits differed with their interpretations. In this confusion Ramakrishna was called to give his opinion. He heard them all and said "does a wife forsake her husband if he becomes lame?"

Sai Baba wore a white robe, tied a cloth round his head, a Muslim attire, and usually sat cross legged on a piece of rock. There was such power and penetration in his gaze, that no one could look him in the eyes for long. Nobody knows his original name. Earlier to him nobody was called Sai Baba. "Sai" is a Persian word for saint and the Bhaul sect calls the supreme spiritual head as "Sai". It is not known whether he had any schooling. No one had seen him read or write. He never even wrote his name. He was first seen in Shirdi as a lad of about 18 years.

Who was his Guru? What was his spiritual sadhana? After his advent in Shirdi no one saw him resort to a Guru. He sometimes said his Guru is Fakir and sometimes said his Guru is Venkusa. He did not worship any idol or any personal God. He came to live in a mosque, did namaaz occationally, had a Tulsi plant in the mosque, and kept a fire constanly burning in a corner of the mosque. Like Kabir he had Hindu and Muslim devotees and conversed with them in Urdu and Marathi. He was'a practical saint and had no use for theory. He taught in action not in words.

Illustration

A lady devotee once asked him to come and take food with her in her house. He consented. She prepared special dishes with all care and love and just as she was getting ready to invite Sai Baba she saw a stray dog coming and making towards the dishes. In horror she drove away the dog and went to invite Sai Baba. He said: "No, you drove me away when I was hungry. Now I don't want it".

Ramana Maharshi was almost naked except for a loin cloth; sat with a steady gaze directed at nothing in particular, serene and motionless, Hundreds of people would sit, stand and pass before him. Yet he did not seem to look at them nor blink his eyes even once.

Ramana Maharshi's name was Venkataraman. A devotee by name Ganapathy Shastri carved Ramana from Venkataraman and added Maharshi to his name as his teaching was original. Ramana was born in Thiruchuzhi, a place near Madurai. He studied upto high school and as with great spiritual leaders there was a transformation in his life about the 17th year. Similar change took place with Ramakrishna and Sai Baba was first noticed by the villagers of Shirdi about this age and he was perceived to be different from the ordinary folk. In his 17th year, Ramana had a great urge to see his 'father', Arunachala. Leaving his house and parents he came to Arunachaleshwara temple at Thiruvannamalai, saw his "father", lost himself in ecstacy and went into samadhi.

Who was his Guru and What was his spiritual sadhana? Hs had no human guru and his guru was within himself, that is Arunachaleshwara.

As with Ramakrishna and Sai Baba he discouraged the study of books for spiritual attainments. But when a struggling aspirant required explanation on a metaphysical point he would take that book from him rapidly go through and explain the point. By moving closely with persons speaking different languages he had acquired mastery in those languages and was able to talk and write in Sanskrit, Malayalam, English, and of course Tamil. He was also master of a certain knowledge which was not human.

Illustration

A devotee arrived at Ramana's place at 1 : pm in the afternoon in the hot sun. The fellow devotees urged him to have a bath in the pond nearby. This spot was lonely. As the devotee was taking bath, Ramana who was sitting in the Pachiamman Koil (temple) suddenly got up and left the place. Those around thought that he was going out for call of nature. He proceeded straight to the pond, where a leopard was also making way to quench its thirst. He addressed the leopard "go now and come later he (referring to the person taking bath) would be frightened if he sees you". At these words the leopard quietly walked away. Ramana then went upto the bather and told him "we should not come here at this part of the day, wild animals would be coming to quench their thrist".

Early in life Ramakrishna had two ideas filled in his mind. Abhorence of money and regarding every woman as his mother. Through out his life he never touched money, He would feel a burning sensation if he touched it. As a worshipper of Mother Kali, he regarded every woman, including his wife, as Mother Kali. Ramana Maharshi also regarded every woman as his mother and did not touch money at all. Sai Baba looked upon every woman as his mother and addressed them as such. But, in the matter of money he was accepting it and even openly demanding it from devotees. Strange? A closer look would reveal that this difference was only outward.

All Masters use symbolism to some extent, but Sai Baba used it profusely. As with other things he turned the demand for money or dakshina also into symbolism. For instance, he was demanding six rupees from a woman repeatedly. She gave them. Baba again asked during her next visit whether she would give him six rupees. She replied that she has already given. Baba said "See that you do not go astray". He was referring to the six vices which the lady had to surrender, six rupees that he demanded were not the metallic coins but the six vices. Take the instance of Purandhare. Baba asked him for two rupees every time that he came to Shirdi. One day Purandhare asked Baba why he was asking him for two rupees only and not for one rupee or three rupees. Baba himself said that what he is requiring from him are not the two metallic coins but Shradda and Saburi, that he has been repeatedly asking from Purandhare and that he is not getting.

What did he do with the money that he collected?. He distributed them all left and right and by the end of the day, he had nothing left on his person. Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Ramana Maharshi showed detachment for money by not touching it, Sai Baba showed detachment for it, by asking for it symbolically and keeping nothing.

SPIRITUAL GUIDANCE - THE DIFFERENT PATHS

A master takes the disciples along the path he himself had trodden. Ramakrishna surrendered his heart and soul in the worship of his personal God, Mother Kali, and realized God.

His advice to his disciples was to keep body, mind and senses pure for the worship of God. He said realization of the personal God Rama, Kali, Shiva, Christ etc. was the same as realization of The Absolute. He said that there is no difference between a personal God and the impersonal God. They are two aspects of the same, like the milk and its whiteness, the diamond and its luster, the snake and its wriggling motion.

Sai Baba did not worship any personal God like Rama or Shiva. He regarded his Guru as everything, personal and impersonal aspects of God. As he himself had realized God through devotion to his Guru, it was this method that he enjoined on his followers. It is the surrendering of body, mind, soul and possessions to the Guru that is the means of attaining realisation, It is seeing God in the Guru, through the Guru, as the Guru and identifying Guru with God. SaiBaba's teaching was simply devotion to the Guru and complete surrenderto him.

'Keep quite and I will do the rest', he sometimes told his devotees which is comparable to the passage in the Bible where Jesus says 'keep still and know that I am God'. The devotee is expected to keep his mind pure and devoid of bad and unnecessary thoughts to receive the Guru's grace. In the scheme of things of Sai Baba the Guru does not lecture, he radiates influence. Ramakrishna and Ramana taught and radiated influence. Sai Baba spoke very little and appeared to give more importance to action. He transmitted grace on a devotee inwardly just as Ramakrishna and Ramana did and would use symbolism in doing it. When no one was around he would stand before the fire in the mosque, take out old coins from his pouch, rub them gently and say 'this is Nana's, this is Bapu's etc. By constant rubbing, the coins had become smooth.

Ramana Maharshi left his house in search of his father Arunachala and found him in Arunachaleshwara in Thiruvannamalai. As he saw Arunachala, he was overpowered with ecstacy and stayed in the temple for many years doing meditation.

Even at an early age, while living with his family in Tiruchuzhi, near Madurai, he had experienced the phenomenon that he was not the body. He elaborated this conclusion when he moved up the hills to his ashramln Tiruvannamalai. He realized God through the method of self-enquiry. Who am I? The real "P is not the body nor any of the senses, nor the sense objects, nor organs of these. Exclude each one of these, and what remains is "I", the real "I" which is self-consciousness or satchitananda. One has to fix oneself on this self, and to abide by the self unmoved by fluctuating feeling of pain and pleasure, which belong to the body. While enjoining on his devotees to follow the method which he himself had trodden, he also helped them in their spiritual path inwardly by radiating influence or Gnana. Ramakrishna and Sai Baba followed the method of Bhakthi. Ramana Maharshi also explained that the paths of Bhakti and Gnana lead to the same goal. In the devotional path one starts by dwelling on the personal God whom one worships and proceeds till one loses oneself or merges in Him. In this path of enquiry one starts dwelling on one's "Self which one toves most proceeds till one loses oneself or merges in the Self.

Who Were The Three Masters?

Who were in fact, the Three Masters in the guise of humans?

We have their own testimony.

Even after being-so close to Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Swami Vivekananda sometimes had doubts about Ramakrishna's divinity. Two days before Ramakrishna's death, while Vivekananda was moving and discussing things in the presence of Ramakrishna, a thought crossed His mind whether he still thinks that he is divine as he thought that people do not entertain false words/ideas in their deathbed. In a flash Ramakrishna Paramahamsa called Vivekananda and said "He who was Rama, He who was Krishna, verily is He now Ramakrishna in this body".

Two instances are given which show the real nature of Sai Baba. He was as usual picturesque and illustrative. A Brahmin doctor went to Shlrdi, with another devotee, but stood at a distance from the mosque, as he thought Sai Baba was a Muslim, and as the doctor worshipped Sree Rama and no other. He watched the ritual that was going inside the mosque and suddenly he rushed and fell at the form of his personal God Sree Rama.

One Purandhare was a staunch devotee of Sai Baba as also his wife and mother. The wife and mother after their stay in shirdi wished to go to Pandharpur for Vittala's darshan after taking leave of Sai Baba. While taking leave they saw Rukkumai and Vittal in the place of Sai Baba. They were overwhelmed with emotion and realized that Sai Baba is no other than God.

One Raghavachari was a staunch devotee of Ramana. He requested Ramana to reveal his real form as Sree Krishna had revealed to Arjuna. Ramana Maharshi was then sitting with a picture of Dakshina Murthy beside him. Ramana as usual silently gazed on and Raghavachari gazed into Ramana's eyes. As he did so the body of Ramana and the picture of Dakshina Murthy disappeared from view. There was only empty space. Then a whitish cloud formed the outline of Ramana and Dakshina Murthi. Their eyes, nose etc appeared as in lightning. Then the figures of Ramana Maharshi and Dakshina Murthy became ablaze with light. Later the usual forms appeared. Explaining this, Ramana said that he is formless, and the visions were according to the viewer's conception.

S. MANEEY

105,24^th Cross,

3^rd Block East,

Jayanagar,

Bangalore - 560 011.

"I WOULD APPEAR AS A LAD. OF EIGHT YEARS"

Shirdi Sai Baba said to His Devotees as above (that He would appear as a lad of eight years) (Sri Sai Satcharita, chapter 43,44. Page 236 - New book page 226)

Baba's words were always short, pithy deep full of meaning, efficient and well balanced.

Baba's speech established its efficacy or greatness while he was living in the flesh, but wonder of wonders !! It did the same ever after His passing away. Baba said "Believe me, though I pass away, My bones in my tomb would be speaking, moving and communicating with those, who would surrender themselves whole heartedly to Me. Do not be anxious that, I would be absent from you. You will hear My bones speaking and discussing your welfare. But remember Me always, believe in Me heart and soul and then, you will be.most benefitted". (Sri Sai Satcharita, Chapter 25)

True to Baba's above words, He is appearing in some form or other and Blesses the Devotees (solves their problems) when they (devotees) are in troubles and prays to Him with whole hearted devotion.

But, His special utterance that he would appear as a lad of eight years has spiritual significance (Divine performance). When vasudeva and his wife Devaki were imprisoned by the cruel Kamsa, (Brother of Devaki & Brother in law of vasudeva) they were praying to Lord Krishna to relieve them from their agony (sufferings) the Lord appeared to them as a lad of eight years and cheered and m?de them happy. Another instance, Sri Arjuna, disciple & friend of Lord Krishna prayed to Him (Lord Krishna) to give him "Viswa roopa Darsanam" and the Lord responded to his prayers and obliged him (by showing His "VISWA ROOPA"). Arjuna was terribly upset in mind and was terribly afraid by seeing the war scenes and begged the Lord (trembling with fear and his eyes flooded with tears) to resume his original form. By seeing his pitiable condition, the Lord assumed his original form as Lord Krishna (as appeared before Vasudava & Devaki)

So, it is inferred from the above episodes that Sai Baba (Sai Krishna) will appear before His Devotees (whenever they are in troubles) as Lord Krishna appeared before Vasudeva & Devaki (in prison) and relieve their sufferings.

The writer of this article had such experiences many a time. When he was in Railway service at Hubli workshops (from 1941 Novemberto June 1977). he had undergone many ordeals. (troubles at the hands of his superiors). But, Lord Sai (as Sai Krishna) saved him each time from the onslaughts (troubles) •

Now, I am going to answer / reply a crucial (important) point raised by many Sai Devotees. They ask me whether it is a fact that so and so is reincarnation of Shirdi Sai Baba as he was born in 1 926 after 8 years of Baba's Maha Samadhi in 1918.

1. First of all, in Hemadpant's original Sai Satcharita (in Marathi ovimetre) it is stated that Baba had said, "I will appear as a lad of eight years not as a lad after eight years. The same statement is also found in Sri Gunaji's English (adopted) Sai Sat Charita - Page 236 (226). Instead of as a lad of eight years, substituting with as a lad after eight years & claiming to be re-incarnation of shirdi Sai Baba is unbelievable & not acceptable.

2. Saints never die, unlike mortals like us, they only enter into Mahasamadhi & they appear from their samadhi (tomb) whenever devotees call unto them with love & devotion & fulfill their genuine desires.

3. Our Baba has advised His Devotees not to enter into any controversial subjects. (No Discussion of pros and cons of any subject). By his own personal example, he exhibited the same to us. We are all aware of Jawahar Ali episode depicted in Sai satcharita chapter V page 28.

The episode in brief: One Jawahar Ali came to Shirdi & lived in the Masjid with Baba. People were captured by his sweet talk. He also bewitched and began to call him as his disguise. Baba did not object and consented to be his chela & faithfully carried out ail his orders as an obedient disciple. The Guru never knew his disciple's worth, but the disciple knew the defects of the Guru (Jawahar Ali). The Shirdi devotees did not like Baba (a great Avatara purusha) serving Jawahar Ali (a Pseudo Guru) as his disciple. They (the devotees) brought Jawahar Ali in the presence of a great saint by name Devidas (who had come to Shirdi before Baba's arrival at Shirdi) and in the discussion that followed between them, Jawahar Ali was found wanting & had to leave Shirdi immediately. He went and stayed at VAIJAPUR and returned after many years to Shirdi & prostrated before Baba. The delusion that he was Guru & Baba his chela was cleared away and as he repented, Sai Baba treated him with respect.

To conclude, let any body say what ever he likes. We, Sai Devotees, should not be carried away with such mischievous and false propaganda. We must strictly adhere to our Samartha Sadguru Sai Baba's teachings, advice etc., and always remember him, meditate on Him and chant His Taraka Mantra "OM SAI SRI SAI JAVA JAVA SAI" constantly, which will enable us to cross over the mundane existence (samsara) and finally merge in the Eternity of Baba (Para Brahman).

OM TAT SAT, OM SHANTl, SHANTI, SHANTIHI

(R.RADHAKRISHNAN) (SAIJEEVI)

OM SAI SRI SAI JAVA JAYA SAI

Akhanda Sai Seva Trust had celebrated its 12th successive year TRIYAHAM'. Sri Sai Taraka Nama Mantra was chanted 72 hours continuously on 24th July 2003 12 Noon to 27th July 12 Noon at Vysya Hostel, Bangalore -1.

The president of the Shirdi Sai Baba Satsang, Kamaraj Road, Bangalore was the chief guest and Inaugurated the function. In his inaugural address he has delivered the speech on efficacy of Nama Japa as follows :-

Dear Sai Bhandus,

We have assembled here on this auspicious Thursday 24.07.2003 for the sacred yagna of chanting Sai Nama for 3 days. The power of Nama Japa is unfathamable and the power of Divine ward SRI SAI is beyond any limits in Blessing the devotees. Nama Japa is Bliss and Ananda. I is the link between the devotee and God. It bring the devotee face to face with the supreme lord SAI.

Namasmaran with intense faith will cleanes one's soul and implant SAI immage in the devotees heart. Nama japa is the easiest way to Bhakti Marga and enlightment of the soul here and here after. And So, we must merge our mind in Shirdi Sai Baba seeking His constant blessings and chant His name 72 Hours from this auspicious hour 12 Noon on Guruvara. So let us all begin to chant His kind, merciful and compassionate Divine Name SAI with purity of mind, sincerity, to inhale His Grace every moment. Inhale and enjoy Sai Nama every minute that will take you to the infinite.

See SAI,! seek SAI! Serve SAI and sleep with SAI (Mahal-Sapathi did so)

Thought contact with SAI is communication with God. Thus this humble Atma offers its sastanga Namaskaram to one and all gathered here and it sees only the sakshatkara of Sai in every one of you.

The Akanda Sai Seva Trust is rendering a yeomen's service by conducting Nama Japa Yagna for at least 3 days every year. In this respect Sri Kubergaru, by his selfless services is making every one, aware of SAI consciousness.

As the Sai Seva Trust was able to hold Namajapa only once a year. This humble devotee by Baba's command felt that Namajapa should continue every week. Shidi Sai Baba satsang was started in 1994 at Sri Rahakrishna Temple complex, Kamaraj Road. First Baba made this sevak to be its convenor and finally placed him as satsang president.

The Satsang is conducting every Thusday Sri Vishnu Shasranama Parayana, Archanasto Sri Sai Baba, Sri Narasimha Swamiji, Sri Sai Padananda Radhakrishna Swamiji, Sri Sivanesan Swamiji and chant "Om Sai Sri Sai Jaya Jaya Sai" for minimum 1 Hour, followed by Arathi and prasad.

The Satsang is also doing Narayanaseva on all Sundays.

The satsang has conducted an exhibition of rare photos of Baba and the items used in Shirdi during his time, twice in Bangalore once in Chennai, Pondichery, Hubli.

As a part of Sai Prachar the satsang has published "Ambrosia in Shirdi" authored by a Sai Sevak Dr. Vinny chitluri. Two other books namely "Shubra Marga Shirdi Sai Baba" and "Our Guru God Shirdi Sai Baba" have also been published by the satsang. All these were done by His grace only.

I sincerely pray Lord Sainatha to bestow His Blessings to one and all for peace, prosperity, happiness for ever.

Jai Sai Ram

Bangalore 24.07.2003

- Sai Bhakta B.H. Chamaraj

PURUSHOTHAMA SAI

'Allah is my Doctor' • said Sri Sai Baba

Reference to context: We find in Shri Sai Satcharita Chapter VI! page 42. under the caption" Baba's All pervasiveness and Mercy" as follows :

In the year 1910, Baba was sitting near the Dhuni on Diwali and warming Himself. He was pushing firewood in to the Dhuni, which was brightly burning. A little later instead of pushing logs of wood, Baba pushed His arm into the Dhuni, the arm was scorched and burnt. This was noticed by the errand boy Madhav and also by Madhav rao Deshpande (shama). They, at once, ran to Baba and Madhava Rao clasped Baba, by His waist from behind and dragged Him forcibly backward and asked, "Deva, for what have you done this?" Then Baba came to His senses and replied, "The wife of a blacksmith at some distant place was working the bellows of a furnace, her husband called her, forgetting that her child was on her lap, she got up hastily and the child slipped into the furnace. I immediately thrust my hand into the furnace and saved the child. I do not mind My arm being burnt but, I am glad that the life of the child is saved" and in the same chapter VII, same page 42, under the caption "Leper Devotees service". .

"On hearing the news of Baba's hand being burnt from (Shama) Madhavrao Deshpande, Mr. Nanasaheb chandorkar accompanied by the famous doctor Paramanand of Mumbai with his medical outfit, consisting of ointments, lint and bandages etc., rushed to Shirdi and requested Baba to allow. Dr. Paramanand to examine the arm and dress the wound, caused by the burn. This was refused. Ever since the burnt arm was dressed by the leper devotee, Bhagoji Shinde. His treatment consisted in massaging the burnt part with Ghee and then, placing a leaf over it and bandaging it tightly. Mr. Nanasaheb chandorkar solicited Baba many a time to unfasten the bandages, get the wound examined, dressed and treated by Dr. Paramanand, with the object that it may heal fast. Dr. Paramanand himself made similar requests but Baba postponed, saying that Allah was His Doctor and did not allow Him arm to be examined".

So, it is proved beyond doubt that Sai Baba was a perfect Yogi and Jnani. For Jnanis, their bodies are just like a shadow. If we cut or torture the shadow, nothing happens. So, nothing happens to Him (Jnanis) bodies. Further, they are so kind and merciful to their devotees, that they take the sufferings of them (devotees) on their bodies. Our Baba took the plague case of Master Khaparde on Himself. (For details go through Chapter VII page 43). Lord Jesus Christ was crucified for the sins committed by others and he bore the same on the cross (crucification). He regained life after three days because he was son of God. SRI RAMANA MAHARISHI had to under go many operations on his body (legs). But he was least bothered and He was always cheerful & received the Devotees with kind heart and solved their problems by onty looking at them, (silencing their minds & thoughts) (Dakshinamoorthy method).

There are innumerable instances how saints have saved their devotees from bodily sufferings at the cost of their own life.

Our Samartha Sadguru Sai Baba gave up his life (body) for the sake of His great devotee Tatya Patil. There is hidden truth in Baba giving up his life for Tatya Patil. Bayaja Bai (Tatya's mother) served Baba with full devotion. She used to search Baba in the jungles and used to feed Him forcibly. Baba used to call her as His sister. Both son & mother had great faith in Baba. Moreover, Baba is an avathara Purusha. Although He gave up His body, yet he is living (in Sookshma Sareera, Apantaratma) and appear before his devotees in any form and at any time (when they pray to Him with love & devotion) & solves their problems.

Even now, I have come across many devotees whose health problems were not solved by doctors, Baba's UDI cured their diseases, we must have faith & patience (NISHTA & SABURI) and -SHRADDA & BAKTHI, in our Purushothama Sai and always remember him, meditate on Him & Chant His Taraka Mantra "OM SAI SRI SAI JAVA JAVA SAI" constantly and we will enjoy Sai Bliss. (urjuanwfB^ii) for ever. Be assured that finally Baba will take, you to heaven (Moksha), as He had done in the case of "KAKA SAHIB DIXir.

OM TAT SAT, OM SHANTI, SHANTI, SHANTIHI

(R. RADHA KRISHNAN)

SAIJEEVI

FOOT NOTE : Baba's 'UDI' is penacia for all ills. One eminant doctor by name Sri. B.C. DAS of Kanpur, whom I met in SHIRDI during All India writers & poets convention in Feb 1982, told me that he mixes "UDI" along with medicines & gives to his patients & cent patent sucess is achieved (Even innumerable diseases like Diabetis etc. are cured bj(£ taking 'UDI' in the mouth).

IMPORTANCE OF CHANTING SAI - NAMA

SAI - NAMA is the penacea for all ills of life, when one chant 'Sai - Nama' in full swing, one feel happy and elated, but if one become slack in one's sadhana, one get worried and depressed, so do not waste even a single breath without uttering the Divine Name and wash away all your sins.

The human life is a rare opportunity which you are not likely to get again, devote your self to the service of Sai. Human body is transitory and life span is as short as the flash of lightning, so be as prompt and quick in devoting your - self to the practice of the Nama - Japa.

The chanting of the Divine Name awakens a person who has been stepped in ignorance through many many births and as a result of chanting Divine Name, the all pervasive God appears in His Divine form.

AS LORD VISHNU has said :

"Na-aham Vasami Vaikunthe, Yogina Hridaye Na cha

Madhbhakta Yatar Gayanti, Tatra Tishthami Naarad"

'NAARADA, I neither ; reside in paradise, nor in the hearts of saints, I reside in the place, where my devotee chant my Name¹

Such is the glory of chanting the Divine Name. In this age of kali only by performing Nama japa with devotion, God Himself appears and bestow His divine blessing upon His devotees. Hence in this age of materialism where every one is restless and in delusion, the chanting of the Divine Sai Nama will bring a happy and stress 'free’ life.

Sai Nama Japa shall bring a pure joy and contentment in your life. Chanting of Sai Nama will purify not only your tongue but also your heart and soul too and is capable of taking you across all the miseries and problems of vour life. ^y

Hence try to devote some time in your busy daily routine for chanting Holy Sai Nama and feel the change in your life.

OM SAI SHRI SAI JAI JAI SAI OM SAI SHRI SAI JAI JAI SAI OM SAI SHRI SAI JAI JAI SAI

SAI SADHAK BALDEVBHARTIVA

WHO IS MIGHTY ?

A question is asked who is mighty - whether one who conquers others or whether one conquers himself (by controlling body, mind, senses, intellect etc.)?

Almost everybody can preach and win over a few admirers by his oration, by the use of a few high sounding words and with the proclamation of his ideals. The problem arises where he has to himself abide them (stick to them). Alexander was the one who conquered quite a few parts of the world but would not exercise control over his ownself. It was the Buddah who conquered his desires, yearnings, and passions. Unfortunately, the world has known many ruthless tyrants like NADIRSHAH who conquered, killed and enslaved others. But, could their victories last? Do people hold them in high esteem? On the other hand, the name of Asoka (Samrat) shines in the history of the world, and he is remembered not because he won the battle of kalinga, but because he left no stone unturned in serving the humanity and excercised restraint over his ownself. It is the strength of the mind and not the might of muscles that counts.

(Courtesy: RON MALAR July 2003 issue)

Note : From the above incidence, we deduce our selves that it was very difficult for great kings like Alexander to control their minds. It is only possible for yogis. Jnanis and ardent devotees of the Lord like TULASIDAS, SURDAS, RAMDAS, MEERABAI, KABIRDAS. NAYANMARS &AZHVARSetc.,

For us (mortals) to conquer Maya, (to control the mind) we should surrender our Tan, Man, Dhan (Body, Mind & Possessions) to our samartha sadguru Sai Nath Maharaj who will in return, give us "Buddhi Yoga", enabling us to merge in the Eternity of BABA (self Realisation)

Let us always chant His Taraka Mantra "OM SAI SRI SAI JAYA JAYA SAI" arid enjoy Sai Bliss (Paramanandam) for ever. We should fully concentrate (with single minded devotion) on the sound "OM SAI SRI SAI JAYA JAYA SAI". By doing so, we get "Laya" & fully merge in the "OM" (one with Brahmam)

OM TAT SAT, OM SHANTI, SHANTI, SHANTIHI.

R. Radhakrlshnan (Sai Jeevi)

News in Brief:

SAI DEEP

Shirdi Sai Prachar Seva Communication Centre has celebrated its Guru Poornima 2003 function on 13.7.2003 at their premises. Every thing went on well as per the programme starting from Kakad Arathi. Morning break fast was distributed to the 200 Blind children of little flower school, Teynampet, near Gemini flyover. After noon Annadhanam was served to the 300 orphan children of Tiruvalluvar school at Saidapet and others who are in need of food. Function concluded after night Arathi. Devotees had the blessings of Sai Sainath Maharaj.

Shirdi Sai Trust, at Krishnan Karanai, East Coast Road, has celebrated its Gurupoornima on 13.7.2003 at their Sai Baba complex and arranged Sai Nama Tryaham from 13.7.2003 to 16.7.2003. Sai Jeevi Sri. R. Radhakrishnan of Hubli has arranged this Tryaham after consulting Sri. K.V. Ramani. Managing Trustee of this Trust. Very good arrangements were made for Bhajan parties for Loaging & boarding. All the devotees & Bhajan parties were happy about the arrangements. The Tryaham went on well and all those who attended and joined in the tryaham had the blessings of Sri Sai Nath Maharaj.

Akhand Sai Seva Trust, Bangalore has conducted its Tryaham from 21.7.2003 to 24.7.2003 at Vysya Hostel. Bangalore many Bhajan parties were participated in this Tryaham and made the function a great success. Sri V.S. Kuberji. Managing Trustee of this Trust has taken keen interest on decoration of Sri Sai Nath Maharaj and it was really a very beadtiful Sai Nama attraction for Sai devotees. All who have attended the function had the blessings of Sai Nath Maharaj.

Sri Batchu Ramaiah Shrettys charitable Trust had the Kumbabhishekam of their Radha Krishna Temple at Kamaraj Road, Bangalore - 42 on 14.8.2003. The function went on well and the night light of the function was, during kumbabhishakam. Lord Vishnu's Garuda Vahamam flown over the temple thrice, which was witnessed by most of the devotees. All the devotees were blessed by Lord Krishna along with His Bhaktha Radha.

Sri Shirdi Sai Baba Seva Samithi, Guntakal has conducted Tryaham (Sai Nama Japam for 72 hrs, continnous chanting of "OM SAI SRI SAI JAVA JAVA SAI") from 21.8.2003 to 24.8.2003. Upto the previous day of Nama starting {ie. 21.8.2003) there was no rain as said by the local devotees. Rain started pouring continnously starting from early hours of 21.8.2003 to 23.8.2003. This show our Baba's merciful way of action for devotees. All who have attended had the blessings of Sri Sai Nath Maharaj.

Maha Kumbh

Maha Kumbh (Kumbha mela) festival at Nasik Godavari River has started on 30 th July 2003. Lakhs of devotees attending this festival and taking bath in the Punniyathirtham.

This is a rare opportunity for Sai Devotees to attend this Mela at Nasik which is about 220 km from shirdi. Devotees going to shirdi for Sri Sai Baba's Dharshan can avail this opportunity, by visiting Nasik , which is also a Punniya kshetram. This mela is continued for one year ie upto July 2004.

SREE PAMBA VIGNESWARA SADYALAYA COMMITTEE is doing annadanam for the pilgrims attending Sabari Mala Sri Aryappa Swamys, Mandala Pooja (from 17.11.2003 to 27.12.2003), Makarajothi (from 1.1.2004 to 19-1-2004) & Chithirakani (Vishnu) (from 12.4.2004 to18.4.2004).

This is a self less noble service rendered to devotees visiting Sabarimala Ayyappaswamy temple, Devotees are requested to offer their might as donations to the following address.

Sree Pamba Vigneswara Sadyalaya Committee (Trust)

"Raj Hari Nivas", 51-B,

Indira NagarEast,

Ratnapuri,Coimbatore-641 027.

Tell: 0422 - 252 5814. at Pamba Tel: 0473 - 5593503

Website: www. Sadyalayaannadanam.org.

Email: Sadyalaya@hotmail.com

Om Sai Ram WORLD FEEDING DAY 14^th APRIL 2004

' The need to raise itself above humanity is humanity's main characteristic*. - friedrich von schlegel

There are so many days celebrated by people all over the world, like New Year's day, Labour's day, Independence day. As much as these days are given importance by people so should WORLD FEEDING DAY, reason being;

1. No man can survive without food, though one may say that food is available everywhere but it is in the hands of those who has abundance, what about those who has not? but food should be the basic requirement and available for all living things!

2. The unavailability of food ..... Is it because.

Natural calamities Natural Disaster

3. Cyclone Diseases

Mother nature gives rain in abundance for us man to survive without discrimination all over world, yet at times she lashes at us with her fury and anger and we have learned to live with it through thick and thin but yet when a fellow human is suffering we turn a blind eye.... Why can't we live as one and share food without disparity!

4. Managing Food Wastage.

Individual responsibility to eradicate food wastage where one should consume what is needed only.

Chefs - Hotel/restaurant, should not waste raw materials, this can be used to cook and give away to the poor Mothers - At home, to only cook what is needed without wasting at all Individually - Only buy what is needed ONLY TAKE WHAT IS NEEDED - DON'T WASTE

As lighthouses are constructed at various places in the sea shore, to enable the boatmen to avoid rocks and dangers, and make them sail safely. So does every man has a teacher to guide him as do we through the teachings of a great Saint who lived in the last century - Shridi Sai Baba whose philosophy was that of GIVING regardless of race, creed and religious beleive. Now under the guidance of Sai Ravichandran from Shirdi Sai Karunai Alayam SAI's TEMPLE OF LOVE) we are embarking on this journey of bringing the people of the world together, to forget, forgive our differences and our faults and let APRIL 14 2004 BE THE WORLD FEEDING DAY !!!

The Current world situation: Something to ponder........

Men work in vain and waste their time in empty cares.

And why / because they fail to see that there are

Bounds to accumulation and that pleasure

can increase only up to a certain point.

Bit by bit their malign dissatisfaction has swept

life out to sea and from the depths

has ctiurned up the tides of War.............

Our aim, let us unite in the name of humanity for the love of mankind, for life is empty and vain if we cannot offer therapy for human suffering.

Contact in Malaysia;

SHRIDI SAI KARUNAIALAYAM, MALAYASIA

Sai Balakrishnan: 016 - 3556261 Sai Radhakrishnan: 016 - 3931011 Sai Pillay: 019-2197185 Sai Ganapathy Rajaram: 012 - 2042476

Email: woridfeedingdaysai@yahoo.co.in www.geocities.com/worldfeedingdaysai

Contact in India:

Sai Ravichandran

Shirdi Sai Prachar Seva Communication Centre

46/19, Elango Salai, Teynampet,

CHENNAI-600018.

Tel: 0091-44-24360271

E mail: saidharshansai@yahoo.co.in

Baba's Golden Words

"Do not entertain the sense of doership in doing good, as well as bad deeds ; be entirely prideless and egoless in all things and thus your spiritual progress will be rapid"

Reference to context : Once Shri Vasudevanand Saraswathi encamped, at Rajamahendri (Andhra country), on the banks of the Godavari. He was devout, orthodox, Dnyani and Yogi Bhaktha of Dattatreya. One, Mr. Pundalikrao pleader of Nanded (Nizam State) went to see him with some friends. While they were talking with him, the names of Shirdi and Sai Baba were casually mentioned. Hearing Baba's name the Swami joined hands with reverence and taking a cocoanut gave it to Pundalikrao, and said to him, "offer this to my brother Sai, with my Pranam and request Him not to forget me, but ever love me". He also added that, swamis do not generally bow to others, but in this case an exeption had to be made. Mr. Pundalikrao consented to take the cocoanut and his message to Baba. The swami was right in calling Baba a brother, for as he maintained an Agnihotra (sacred fire) day and night in his orthodox fasion, Baba too kept His Agnihotra, ie, Dhuni ever burning in the Masjid.

After one month Pundalikrao and others left for shirdi with the coconut, and reached Manmad, and as they felt thirsty They went to a rivulet for drinking water. As water should not bedrunk on an empty stomach, they tookout some refreshment ie, chivda (flattenend rice mixed with spice). The Chivda tasted most pungent and in orderto soften it, as some one suggested, broke the cocoa-nut and mixed its scrapings with it. Thus, they made the chivda more tasty and palatable. Unfortunately, the cocoanut turned out to be the same that was entrusted to Pundalikrao. As they neared Shirdi, Puudalikrao remembered the trust, ie the cocoanut, and was very sorry to learn that it was broken and consumed. He came to Shirdi and saw Baba. Baba had already received a wireless message, regarding the cocoanut from the Swami, and himself asked Pundalikrao first to give the thing sent by his brother. He held fast Baba's feet, confessed his guilt and negligence, repented and asked for Baba's pardon. He offered to give another fruit as a substitute, but Baba refused to accept it, saying that the worth of that cocoa-nut was far more than an ordinary one, and it could not be replaced by another.

Baba also added, "Now, you need not worry yourself any more about the matter. It was on account of my wish that, the cocoanut was entrusted to you, and ultimately broken on the way: Why should you take the responsibility of the actions on you? Do not entertain the sense of doership in doing good, as well as for bad deeds; be entirely prideless and egoless in all things and thus your spiritual progress will be rapid". What a beautiful spiritual instruction Baba gave! (Sri Sai Satcharita chapter L)

Apt words have power to suage the tumours of a troubled mind. -MILTON

We should study Baba's teachings deeply and understand their true sense (import) and meaning, and last but not the least, practice regularly, sincerely and ceaselessly and try to become a worth Sai devotee. This is the one and only way open to us to show our faith and gratitude to him,

Now, let us analyse Baba's golden words:- "Not a leaf moves except by his (BABA's - God's) bidding, But the ego I thinks that he is the doer and entangles himself in endless miseries (Karmic bondage) & goes through round of births & deaths (punarapi Jananam, punarapi maranam). As a matter of fact, Prakrithi, or Maya Sakthi, (Gods power - will) works tough all of us. This will go on according to our prarabdha Karma, But God (Para Brahmam) residing in the hearts of all of us is only a "witness" for the actions (good or bad) done by us.

So, Baba wants us (our mind) to be merged in the self (para Brahmam) viz: not entertaining the sense of doership in doing good as well as bad deeds,

Note: It is very difficult to subdue one's ego I say mind, because from the mind emanates the first thought I ie ego I. (mind is bundle of thoughts). So, mind has to be controlled, How? We have to find out the source of mind. The source of the mind is self (God or Parabrahmam by whatever name we may call it) from which it springs forth. So, we must abide in the self. Then only the mind will be controlled.

Again to abide in the self is not an esay task (job) for which our Samartha Sadguru's grace is needed. To get His grace we should always think of him, meditate on him, read his leela's (Stories) regularly. The easiest path to get his grace (Salvation) in this Kaliyuga (ironage) is to always chant his taraka mantra, OM SAI SRI SAI JAVA JAVA SAI constantly. (Smaranam, one of the type of Nava vidha Bakthi - Nine type of devotion)

OM TAT SAT,

OM SHANTI. SHANTI, SHANTIHI..

SAIJEEVI