About the book

Shri Saibaba was such an incarnation of God, to whom many devotees

after so much efforts have expressed their inabilities to describe him. One
of such devotee was Dasganu Maharaj. He wrote,
“Sai raham nazar karna,Bachonka palan karna
Das ganu kahe ab kyaa boloon, Thak gayi meri rasna.

The meaning of the above Hymns is that Oh ! Sai, look at us mercifully,

and take care of your children. Das Ganu Says : What shall I say now? My
tongue fails me.I am unable to describe your leelas. Similarly, Govind
Raghunath Dabholkar (Hemadpanth) had written in Ch.2 of Shri Sai
Satcharita by describing the life history of Baba that “… then how can I write
the life of a saint or describe the nature of Incarnations, which even the Vedas were
unable to do? One must be a saint himself, before he could know other saints, then
how can I describe their glory?”

Baba was vested with so many divine qualities like benevolence,

compassion, unselfishness, humility, generosity, equality of vision,
forgiveness, non-violence, righteousness, magnanimous and many more.
He was omniscient and also omnipotent. Though he was looked like a
fakir, but he was the incarnation of living & moving Brahma. He always
said that he has come to this world only for his devotees and followers.
He was always active for the welfare of his devotees. The people who
were coming to him were welcomed by him with great affection. To
whom he welcomed by showing his love and to whom he also welcomed
by showing his anger. His angriness was not meant for the devotees but
towards their bad fate.

In this book about the devotees who were merged with Baba have
been described. These are being described in two sections :- when Baba
was physically in Shirdi and after his Mahasamadhi. How the devotees left
their physical body peacefully after remembering, chanting the name of
Baba have been presented precisely. The day,date & tithi of their Sadgati
are mentioned clearly to understand how these were auspicious for them.
A request to readers & devotees that if there is any mistake in the
compilation of this book, please forgive me.

May Baba bless us all.

Shirdi Saibaba Temple,Kendrapara,Odisha

 CONTENTS
I. BEFORE BABA’S MAHASAMADHI
Devotees Name Month/Date of Sadgati
Ch-1 Tatya Saheb Noolkar March 1911
Ch-2 Megha 19th January 1912, Amavasya
Ch-3 Bayajabai Kote Patil 22nd December 1912, Chaturdashi
Ch-4 Sanyasi Vijayanand February 1911
Ch-5 Balaram Manker December 1915
Ch-6 Vatsali 9th December 1911,Chaturthi
(Kaksaheb Dixit’s daughter)
Creatures Month/Date of Sadgati
Ch-7 A Tiger 8th October 1918
Ch-8 A Buffalo Approx.in 1912

II. AFTER BABA’S MAHASAMADHI

Devotees Name Month/Date of Sadgati
Ch-9 Nanavali 27th October 1918, Navmi
Ch-10 Kakasaheb Dixit 05th July 1926, Yogini Ekadashi
Ch-11 Mahalsapati 11th September 1922, Chaturthi
Ch-12 Dasganu Maharaj 26th November 1962, Chaturdashi
Ch-13 Madhavrao Deshpande 25th April 1940, Chaturthi
Ch-14 Laxmibai Sindhe 02nd June 1963, Ekadashi
Ch-15 Madhavrao Adkar 18th November 1955, Chaturthi
Ch-16 Nanasaheb Nimonkar 27th January 1919, Ekadashi
Ch-17 Khushalchand 15th November 1918, Dwadashi
Ch-18 Annasaheb Dabholkar 15th July 1929, Sankranti
Ch-19 Bapusaheb Jog 15th December 1926, Ekadashi
Ch-20 Jyotindra Tarkhad 16th August 1965, Sankranti
Ch-21 Krishnarao J Bhishm 08th August 1935, Astami
Ch-22 Anna Chinchanikar 15th April 1920, Ekadashi
Ch-23 Damu Anna Kasar 20th January 1941, Astami
Ch-24 Nanasaheb Chandorkar 21st August 1921, Tritiya
Ch-25 Rao Bahadur S.B.Dhumal 29th June 1940, Navmi
Ch-26 Upasani Maharaj 24th December 1941, Saptami
Ch-27 Tatya Kote Patil 12th March 1945, Trayodashi
Ch-28 Balasaheb Dev 01st January 1946, Trayodashi
Ch-29 G.S.Khaparde 01st July 1938, Chaturthi
Ch-30 Wamanrao Patel 25th August 1982, Saptami
(Sai Sarananand)
CHAPTER-1 : TATYASAHEB NOOLKAR
Approx. in February 1909 Shri Tatyasaheb Noolkar at the
age of 45 years came to Shirdi for first time. He was then
the Sub-judge of Pandharpur . He came with Nanasaheb
chandorkar after fulfillment of two conditions of Nagpuri
orange & brahmin cook.He was one of the ardent devotee
of Baba who was involved in the first celebration of Guru
Poornima at Shirdi on Asadha Poornima day of 3rd July
1909. Baba liked him very much and due to his utmost
devotion on 16th December of 1910, Dattatreya Jayanti, Baba presented a kafni
to him.
In the month of March 1911, although Tatyasaheb's condition was getting
worse day by day, his family members were hoping that with Baba's grace he
will recover from it. His childhood friend, Babasaheb Sahasrabuddhe
(Nilkanthrao) used to sleep next to him for any service required. One day at 3
a.m. Tatyasaheb's weakness started increasing and he kept on lying on the bed
repeating Sai-Nama continuously.
He asked his both sons to sing Bhajans (Hymns). Everybody knew that
end was approaching. The Bhajan continued for about 1 to 2 hours. Tatyasaheb
was listening quietly but he seemed to be very tired. Wamanrao, the doctor son,
checked the pulse. It was very slow and for giving some stimulant injection,
Wamanrao looked for a hypodermic (introduced beneath the skin) syringe, but
it was found to be broken. Hence he became helpless. Bhajan was going on. At
about 5 O'clock Tatyasaheb, by raising his hand, signalled to stop the Bhajan
and said something in a low voice. On going nearer the sons heard him asking
them to sing the famous Bhajan, meaning "O Lord! Wait and stand before my
eyes and I want to see you." The two sons sang the Bhajan and that time
Tatyasaheb seemed to be in a very happy state, as if his mind was merged with
that of Lord Himself. Then Tatyasaheb asked his sons to stop singing and himself
remained quiet in his bed.
Meantime Tatyasaheb's younger son Vishwanath went running to
Radhakrishna Mai and brought Baba's Pada-Tirtha and Udi. When Udi was
applied to Tatyasaheb's forehead, he opened his eyes clearly and looked
around. Really at that time the depth, brightness and probing nature of his
glance was worth observing. When the Pada-Tirtha was given in a spoon,
Tatyasaheb opened his mouth. The Pada-Tirth was poured three times and as
soon as the third pouring was over Tatyasaheb breathed his last. Just a few
minutes before this, Sai Baba in the Masjid said, "Behind our Masjid a big star
has collapsed" and stepping out in the open, He shouted loudly, beating the
mouth with hands. Whenever a dear devotee passed away, Baba sometimes
behaved thus.
 Afterwards, persons gathered there one by one paid his or her homage by
touching Tatyasaheb's feet and then as per the custom the body was taken to
the cremation-ground via the Masjid. In the cremation-ground when the body
was kept on the pyre, Baba's great devotee Radhakrishna Mai, who was then
sweeping Baba's route to Lendi Baug, came running swiftly with the broom in
her hand, went round the pyre once shouting "my mother's darling child has
gone away" and after kissing Tatyasaheb's face and bowing down at his feet,
went away.

That day Baba's daily routine such as taking the wash and breakfast, going
out for begging etc. was quite delayed and Baba Himself in a lamenting mood
exclaimed, "My Tatyaba has left. Now what am I to do? I shall also leave. What
for this Masjid and what for Shirdi! Tatyaba was a good man. He listened to me
and I helped him to accomplish his life's goal. He will be born no more."

Then, on the third day, Baba disappeared and went to Nimgaon - a village
near Shirdi. All the villagers and devotees at Shirdi were worried and after a
search went to Nimgaon and brought back Baba ceremoniously in a procession
singing Bhajans. At that time Tatyasaheb's bones and ashes were being carried
in a cart to Kopergaon for immersing into Godavari River. The cart and Baba
returning from Nimgaon met on the road. Baba stopped for a while, made some
special signs with hands towards the ashes of Tatyasaheb and then started
walking further. In this way Tatyasaheb merged with Baba.

May baba bless his departed soul.

CHAPTER-2 : MEGHA
Megha of Viramgaon, Gujarat was a simple and
illiterate Brahmin cook of Rao Bahadur H. V. Sathe.
He was a devotee of Lord Shiva and always chanted
the five syllabled mantra 'Namah Shivaya'. He did not
know the Sandhya nor its chief mantra, the Gayatri.
Rao Bahadur Sathe was interested in him, got him
taught the Sandhya and the Gayatri.
Sathe send him to Shirdi by telling him Baba is
the incarnation of Lord Shiva. But at the Broach
Railway station he learnt that Sai Baba was a Moslem.
Perhaps in the later part of 1908, when he
reached Shirdi and went to the Masjid, Baba was very indignant and would not
allow him to enter. "Kick out that rascal" roared Baba, and then said to Megha
- "You are a high caste Brahmin and I am a low Moslem; you will lose your caste
by coming here. So get away." Hearing these words Megha began to tremble.
He was wondering as to how Baba had come to know about what was passing
in his mind. He stayed there for some days, then he went home. Then in 1910,
he came for second time and stayed forever.
Then Megha began to look upon Sai Baba as an incarnation of Shiva. In
order to worship Shiva, bela leaves are required and Megha used to go miles
and miles every day to bring them and worship his Shiva (Baba). In Baba's
company he underwent mysterious experiences which transformed Megha from
an athiest to an ardent devotee of Baba and spent his life in the service of Sai -
Shiva.
After the death of Tatyasaheb Noolkar in Mar 1911 , Megha took over the
regular daily worship of Baba in the Dwarakamai. (He used to stand on one leg
while performing the Arati). During the month of December’1911, He had
initiated a religious ritual named by Gayatri Punascharana which was completed
on 3rd January,1912. He fed some Brahmins on completion of his Gayatri
Punascharana .Dadasaheb Khaparde attended it at Sathe Wada.
After continuous service of Baba for many years, doing regular worship
and Aarti every noon and evening, Megha passed away on 19th Janaury 1912
( Mauni Amavasya) at about 4 AM . Then Baba passed His hands over his corpse
and said "This was a true devotee of Mine." Baba lamented loudly and followed
the funeral procession for some distance. Baba showered flowers on Megha's
body. Baba also ordered that at His own expense the usual funeral dinner should
be given to the Brahmins, and this order was carried out by Kakasaheb Dixit.
Under the refuge of Baba, Megha obtained Sadgati.

May Baba bless his departed Soul.

CHAPTER-3 : BAYJABAI KOTE PATIL
She was the first person to take care of feeding Baba.
She used to walk daily on every noon many miles in the
jungle, trampling bushes and shrubs in search of him and
used to offer food to Baba. The Fakir sat calm and
motionless in meditation, while she placed a leaf before
Him, spread the eatables, bread & vegetables etc.
thereon and fed Him forcibly. Wonderful was her faith
and service. Every day she roamed at noon in the
jungles and forced Baba to complete his lunch. Her
service, Upasana or Penance, by whatever name we call
it, was never forgotten by Baba till his Mahasamadhi.

Baba used to seek alms as many as 15 times daily from Bayyaji Bai's house.
He would say, "Bayaja maa! Jevan de! Roti lao (give food, get the roti)!" near
the house of Bayajabai. Bayajabai’s house was situated near to the masjid.
Bayyaji Bai and her husband, Ganpathrao were the first people who observed
the divine nature of Baba and his radiating stature. Both of them treated Baba
as their own son. Baba also looked at Bayyaji Bai as his mother.

Daily Baba took Biksha from her house. As soon as she heard Baba’s voice
she left whatever she was doing; whether it was attending to the cattle or horses
or any other work, she would stop that work forthwith and went inside and
prepared fresh Bhakari (bread made from jowar) and vegetable curry for him.
Baba was very much pleased with her love, devotion and attention. Baba did
not ask for dakshina from the beginning and it was Bayyajibai and her husband
who provided money for the needs of Baba.

That was 22nd December 1912,Sunday, Kartik Sukla pakshya chaturdashi

on which Bayajabai merged in Sai. Before her death, Bayajabai prayed to Baba
by saying “Oh Sai ! Please keep me on your holy feet after leaving this earthly
body.”Though at the time of her death Baba was at Dwarakamai, but he give
her darshan and blessed her to fulfil her desire. Her time of death was duly
known to Baba. He was sitting quietly in Dwarakamai. After he listened the
news of death, he expressed his grief.Baba sent a message to Tatya that the
funeral procession of Bayajabai will pass in front of Dwarakamai. When the
procession passed through Dwarakamai, Baba lamented in a loud voice by
telling that,” My kote mother is leaving me.” That painful voice was so much
heart breaking that the villagers were stunned to see this.

May Baba bless her departed soul.

CHAPTER-4 : SANYASI VIJAYANAND
A Madrasi Sannyasi named Vijayanand started on a pilgrimage to Manasa-
Sarovar. En route, hearing Baba's fame, he halted at Shirdi. By listening the
difficulties of the journey to Manasa-Sarovar from Somadevaji Swami of
Hardwar, the Sannyasi was dejected and cancelled the trip. Then when he went
to Baba and prostrated himself before Him, Baba got enraged and said, "Drive
out this useless Sannyasi, his company is of no use". The Sannyasi did not know
Baba's nature. He felt discomforted, but sat there watching things that were
going on. It was the morning Darbar and the Masjid was overcrowded. Baba
was being worshipped in various ways. Some were washing His Feet, some
taking the Tirth (holy water) from His toe and drinking it heartily and some
touching their eyes with it, some were applying sandal-paste, and some scents
to His body. And all were doing these things forgetting the distinction of caste
and creed. Though Baba got enraged with him, he was filled with affection for
Baba and he did not like to leave the place.He stayed in Shirdi for two days
when he got a letter from Madras stating that his mother was very ill. He felt
very dejected and wanted to be by his mother's side; but he could not leave
without Baba's permission. So he saw Baba with the letter in hand and asked for
His permission to return home.

The omniscient Baba knowing the future said to him - "If you so loved
your mother, why did you take Sannayasa? Fondness or attachment ill becomes
an ochre garb. Go and sit quiet at your lodging, wait with patience for a few
days. In the Wada there are many robbers, bolt your doors, be very vigilant,
the thieves will carry everything. Wealth and prosperity are transient and the
body is subject to decay and death. Knowing this, do your duty, leaving all
attachment to the things of this world and next. He who does this and
surrenders himself to the Feet of Hari (Lord) will get free from all troubles and
attain bliss. The Lord runs and helps him who remembers and meditates on Him
with love and affection. Your store of past merits is considerable, so you have
come here. Now attend to what I say and realise the end of your life. Being
desireless, begin from tomorrow the study of Bhagwat. Do three 'saptahas' i.e.
three reading during three weeks, conscientiously. The Lord will be pleased with
you and destroy your sorrows, your illusions will vanish and you will get peace."
Seeing that his end was approaching, Baba prescribed that remedy and made
him read 'Ramavijaya' which pleases the God of death. Next morning after
bathing and other purifying rites he commenced to read Bhagwat in a secluded
part in the Lendi garden. He completed two readings and thereafter felt much
exhausted. He returned to the Wada and stayed in his lodging for two days and
on the third day he breathed his last on Fakir (Bade) Baba's lap.

May Baba bless his departed soul.

CHAPTER-5 : BALARAM MANKAR
There was a house-holder devotee of Baba by name Balaram Mankar. When his
wife passed away, he got dejected and entrusting his household to his son, left
his home and came to Shirdi and lived with Baba. Being pleased with his
devotion, Baba wanted to give a good turn to his life and He did this in this
wise. He gave him Rs. 12/- and asked him to go and live in Macchindragarh
(District Satara). Mankar was first unwilling to go and stay away from Baba, but
Baba convinced him that he was giving the best course for him and asked him
to practise mediation thrice a day on the Garh.

Believing in Baba's words, Mankar came to the Garh. He was much

pleased with the lovely sight, pure water, healthy air and the surroundings of
the place, and began to practice assiduously the meditations as recommended
by Baba. After some days he got a revelation. Generally Bhaktas get revelation
in their Samadhi or trance states, but in Mankar's case he got it, when he came
down to his ordinary consciousness from his trance. Baba appeared to him in
person. Not only that Mankar saw Him, but he also asked Him why he was sent
there. Baba replied - "In Shirdi many thoughts and ideas began to rise in your
mind and I sent you here to rest your unsteady mind. You thought that I was in
Shirdi with a body composed of the five elements and three and a half cubits in
length, and not outside of it. Now you see and determine for yourself whether
the person you see here now is the same you saw at Shirdi. It is for this reason
that I sent you here."

Then after the period was over, Mankar left the Gada and proceeded to
his native place Bandra. He wanted to travel by rail from Poona to Dadar, but
when he went to the booking office to get a ticket, he found it very much
crowded. He could not get his ticket soon, when, a villager with a langoti (piece
of cloth) on his waist and kambali on his shoulder turned up and said - "Where
are your going?" "To Dadar." replied Mankar. Then he said - "Please take this
Dadar ticket of mine; as I have some urgent business here, I have cancelled my
Dadar trip." Mankar was very glad to receive the ticket and was just taking out
money from his pocket, when the rustic disappeared in the crowd. Mankar tried
to find him out in the crowd, but it was in vain. He waited for him till the train
left the station but found no trace of him. This was the second revelation
Mankar got in a strange form. Then Mankar after visiting his home, again
returned to Shirdi and remained there at Baba's feet, always following His
biddings and advice. In the end, he was very fortunate to leave this world in
the presence, and with the blessings of Baba.

May Baba blessed his departed soul.

CHAPTER- 6 : VATSALI (KAKASAHEB
DIXIT’S DAUGHTER)
Vatsali was the beloved daughter of Kakasaheb Dixit.We know that Kakasaheb
was one of the ardent devotee of Baba. He had built one wada or house in
Shirdi named by Dixit wada. He was residing many times in Shirdi.There was an
another house of Kakasaheb at Virle Parle,Bombay.His family was residing there.
One day Vatsali aged about eight, was in his bungalow at Ville Parle and was
playing close to a huge almirah with a large number of big dolls in it. She climbed
up the almirah, and the same (with all the dolls) fell upon her, but strangely
enough, no dolls fell upon her and no damage was done to her by the fall except
the breaking of her bangles and the consequent scratch.
Kaka learnt of this incident only later and understood what divine power
and kindness were in Sai (his Gurudeva). How Baba was vigilant & careful
towards his family. Baba liked Kaka very much. Baba wanted that the spiritual
practice of Kaka should not be disturbed.That’s why He was taking proper care
of his family at Ville Parle.Even if Baba was sitting in Dwarakamai saved the
child at Ville Parle.
Once Vatsali was suffering from fever. After many treatments at Bombay,
she could not be able to recover from fever.Then Kaka decided to take her to
Shirdi. She stayed in Shirdi for somedays. On 8th December 1911 night Baba said
to Vatsali in her dream that” why are you sleeping on the floor ? Come & sleep
beneath the neem tree.” In the morning of 9th December, Vatsali told her dream
to Kakasaheb. At the same time in the morning Baba asked to Shyama,”Whether
the daughter of Kaka is being dead ?”Shyama told,” Deva ! why are you saying
such inauspicious words.” Then Baba told, “Shyama ! the child will die before
evening”. As per the saying of Baba, Vatsali died in the afternoon. In the
morning of that day a copy of Bhavartha Ramayan came to Dixit by post. He
gave it into Baba's hands. Baba holding it up side down dipped his hand in it
and took up the passage where Rama condoles Tara after Vali was slain and
asked Dixit to read it. Baba had advised to read this chapter to understand the
significance of this story and to face the truth of life that is death. Further what
is preordained,it will happen.Indirectly Baba had given the indication that if it
would be possible to avoid the future uncertainties or threats by taking attempts
in present, then the virtuous personalities like Lord Rama ,King Nala & King
Yudhistir would not get so much pain & sorrows.
When Bhagavata was over, KakaSaheb asked Baba, if he should study
Bhagavad Gita with commentaries. Baba ordered him to go on with
concentrated study of only two works, Bhagavata and Bhavartha Ramayana.
He had not merely told Kaka to study but also do Mananam (meditation) and
observe Acharanam (to have his conduct based on the scriptures).

May Baba bless her departed soul.

CHAPTER-7 : A TIGER
On 8th October, 1918, just 7 days
before Baba passed away in His
physical form, a beautiful incident
occurred in Shirdi . A country-cart
had stopped in front of the Masjid
and on it there was a Tiger
fastened with iron chains with a
fierce face. It was also suffering
from some pain and was in great
agony. It had three keepers who
were taking it from place to place
and making money by exhibiting it. It was also their only means of subsistence.

As the Tiger was suffering from some ailment which they could not fathom
they had tried all sorts of remedies but in vain. They had heard of Baba and has
come to HIM with the animal.

They got the Tiger down with the chain in their hands and made it stand
at the door. The Animal was fierce but also very restless. As it approached the
steps, it suddenly hung its head down and saw towards Baba. It continued
looking at Baba and also Baba was looking at it. When it got on the step of the
Masjid, it moved the tuft of its tail and dashed it thrice against the ground and
then fell down senseless.

People were taken a back as to how such a fierce animal could fall down
like that and merge at His Lotus Feet. Then everyone understood that the
Animal must have known that it was nearing its end and wanted to die at the
feet and in the presence of Baba. It was their debtor, and when the debt was
paid off it was free and met its end at Sai's Feet. When any creature bow down
their heads at saints' feet and meet death, they are saved; and unless they have
got a good store of merit on their account, how could they get such a happy
end?

May Baba bless it’s departed soul.

CHAPTER-8 : A BUFFALO
Bapusaheb Jog & his wife ( Tai Bai) were
residing at Shirdi after Bapusaheb retired from
Government Service. The couple stayed there
till Baba’s Mahasamadhi. Baba was calling his
wife as Aaye or mother. One Day when Tai bai
took the breakfast prasad to Dwarakamai,
Baba called her and said, “Aayi today a Buffalo
will come to you. So make a lot of Puran Polis
(a chapathi filled with cooked Daal and
Jaggary and Cardamum). Top it with lot of ghee (clarified butter) and give it to
the Buffalo to eat”. Aayi readily agreed to do so. But she said, “Baba I will surely
feed the buffalo, but where am I to go and search for this buffalo? Baba replied,
“Aayi why do you worry about this? As soon as you finish preparing the Puran
Polis the buffalo will come to your door”. In dismay Aayi replied, “Baba the
house that I live has two doors. Everyday a whole lot of buffalo’s pass that way
on their way to graze. Often they stop at my door for food that I may give”.
Baba explained, “Aayi as soon as you have prepared the puran polis and applied
ghee this particular buffalo will come to the rear door and wait”.

Satisfied with Baba’s answer, Aayi went home. With great care she made
a lot of delicious puran polis. Making sure that they were laden with ghee. It
was about 12:30 when she went to the rear door and found the buffalo waiting.
She was surprised, but happy that Baba’s words were true. Then she returned
with a whole lot of puran polis and fed the buffalo. The buffalo ate all the puran
polis and then died right in front of her. Aayi was frightened, distraught and sad
at the turn of events. Aayi felt that she was responsible for the death of the
buffalo. She went inside the kitchen and carefully examined each and every
ingredient that she had used, but could not find anything wrong with them. Her
mind was in turmoil. She said to herself, “ I made these puran polis with lots of
love and happiness. Then how did this happen? Why did this buffalo die?
Though I did not kill him, everyone will hold me responsible for the death.

Later she went to Baba and told Him in detail what happened. Baba said,
“Aayi do not be afraid. What happened is not bad. It had to happen anyway.
That buffalo had only this desire (vaasana) left. Once that desire was satisfied
he got free from that womb. Now he will get a good rebirth. Now you go
home without fear. Don’t feel bad or sad as you have freed him from a lower
birth. When you have freed him from the rebirth of a buffalo and given him a
chance for a better birth then why should you be unhappy?”

May Baba bless it’s departed soul.

CHAPTER-9 : NANAVALI
Nanavalli was a unique and intriguing Sai Baba
devotee, who called himself the "General of Sai Baba's
army". His background and history are shrouded in as
much mystery as Sai Baba's and he was notorious for
his erratic and eccentric behavior. Some people were
afraid of this man-not only would he carry snakes in
his pockets, and scorpions in his mouth, but he would
violently abuse and attack certain people for no
apparent reason. Others felt him to be a Mahatma, with an outstanding love
for Sai Baba. His appearance was wild and disheveled- sometimes he went nude
and at others he dressed in old sacking. If we investigate the life of Nanvalli, we
uncover a tale of touching and inspiring devotion, and an outstanding model of
vairagya (dispassion). As with Sai Baba, little is known about Nanavalli's
background.
One account says that he was a Brahmin by birth and another that he was
born into Muslim family. Sometimes he wore the clothes of a Muslim fakir, and
at other those of a Hindu sadhu. Then again like Baba, his religious roots were
ambiguous. Nobody knows when he came to Shirdi, but some say he was
already there when Baba arrived with the wedding party. Upon seeing Baba,
Nanavalli greeted him affectionately, "Oh, Uncle, you have come!" Thereafter,
he always addressed Baba as “Mama" or “Uncle.”

Nanavalli was content to see Baba occasionally and from a distance, but
his emotion for Baba was such that he felt all glory and greatness should be
Baba's and that none should accrue to himself. He used to say, "My duty is only
to protect my uncle". Nanavalli could not bear immorality or hypocrisy. He
seemed to know devotees inner thoughts and target them accordingly. He was
known to occasionally wait outside Dwarakamai and beat up certain
individuals. Though people would rush to Baba and complain, Baba would
never reprimand Nanavalli, but simply warn them to be careful of him.
Nanavalli's attachment to Baba was so great that he used to say, "If Baba
goes, I’ll not be around for long" Sure enough, when Baba passed away,
Nanavalli rushed to Dwarakamai crying. "Uncle, without you how can I live "?
I am coming with you " with that he went to the Hanuman Mandir. There he
wept grievously and took no food. 0n the thirteenth day, dtd.27.10.1918
Nanavalli passed away.

May Baba bless his departed soul.

CHAPTER- 10 : KAKASAHEB DIXIT
Hari Sitaram alias Kakasaheb Dixit (Aged 45 years), a
prominent solicitor and M.L.C. first arrived at Shirdi in
1909. Baba used to call him affectionately Langda Kaka
and removed fear complex from his mind. Kaka Dixit was
known for his obedience to Baba's orders.The second
wada which was constructed in Shirdi for devotees was the
Dixit wada,He was a devotee of high order of discipline.

On 5th July 1926. i.e. on Ekadasi, he was starting

from Ville Parle to go to Dr. Deshmukh's Dispensary at Bombay to see his ailing
son Ramakrishna. Anna Sabeb Dabolkar was starting to go to his own station.
When he with Tendulkar came up after the scheduled time to the platform, they
found the train also was late and came just in time for them to catch it. Both of
them and Anna Saheb Dabolkar got in, and the words which came from Kaka
Saheb were, 'Anna Saheb, Just see! How merciful Baba is! He has given us this
train this minute. He has not made us wait even a minute.' He then looked into
his pocket time table and said, "Baba has made the train come late and enabled
us to catch it. Or else we would have to be stranded at Colaba and be frustrated.
So, this is Sai's grace".

Thus, sitting facing Anna Saheb, Kaka Saheb remembered Baba's loving
grace and appeared to fall asleep. Dabolkar first thought that he was sleeping.
When he went near him to hold his head and asked him, 'Are you sleeping?'
there was no reply. Then Dabolkar feared that KakaSaheb had fainted. Making
Kaka lie down, Dabolkar noted the apparently hopeless condition of Kaka
Saheb. The train was speeding from station to station. Anna Saheb told his friend
Tendulkar in the compartment that he should tell the Guard so that they may
carry down Kaka's body from the train. But as there was a big crowd and heavy
rain, he could not do this at Bandra and so only at Mahim he got down and
told the Guard. The Guard arranged to phone to Parel for a stretcher and doctor
and at Parel the body was taken out. The doctor examined the body and said
that life was extinct. On account of the suddenness of death, there would have
been difficulties of Inquest. But luckily they got the doctor's certificate, and the
body was committed to the care of AnnaSaheb. The main point for us to see is
how Baba carried out his undertaking to carry Kaka in a vimana. But this was a
miracle, Baba had given Kaka a very high end. There was no pain or fear before
life departed from his body. His was a happy death even from the worldly
standpoint. But from the spiritual viewpoint it was a highly blissful end. The
death in such circumstances meant Sadgati (i.e. blessed future) to the Soul.

May Baba bless his departed soul.

CHAPTER- 11 : MAHALSAPATY
He was one of the fortunate devotee who was slept with
Baba at Dwarakamai. Only for his dedication and
determination Baba returned to his physical body in the
year 1886.Though He was the priest of Khandoba
temple, but He was also worshipping Baba dedicatedly.
One of the important point to be noted that the name
“SAI” was given by him to Baba when Baba came for
second time to Shirdi, Baba's company, Seva, example
and help kept Mahalsapathi very high up in his spiritual
level. He bore great love to Baba. When Baba passed
away in 1918, he, on account of his attachment, declined all food and fasted for
13 days. Probably to prevent a shock, Baba had given him hints of his (Baba's)
impending final departure.

It was Mahalsapathi's custom to spend all his time with Baba except when
he went for his meal, etc Later Baba would send some one or other to fetch him
from his house. Then he would light up chilm (i.e. smoking pipe), do odd jobs
for Baba, and prepare Baba's bed, which was a very peculiar arrangement.

Baba made this assurance doubly sure and granted him the merit of dying
on an auspicious day (with God in his mind and on his lips) just as he did this
for several other bhaktas of his. Dying on an auspicious day is conducive to
departure in a holy mood from this life (through the bright and smokeless path).
When Mahalsapathi's death was approaching, he retained full consciousness and
control of his mind. That was on 12th September 1922, Monday (in the month
of Badrapada, Bahula Shashti, Somavara, sacred to Shiva and Khandoba) Having
finished all his puja, he said to his family, ‘Today is my father's Shraddha day.
Finish cooking soon. Today I close my earthly life and go to Heaven'. So,
Laxman, the Brahmin, came and finished the Shraddha at once and finished the
gift of balis to crows, cows, etc, and guests were fed. Then the family meals
were finished. Mahalsapathi took betel and nuts after his meal. After chewing a
bit, he put on a kufni. Having near him, Bala Gurav, Ramachandra Kote Patil,
etc., he told them "all to do Ramachandra japa". Japa went on. His son was
there, and he gave him his stick. Mahalsapathi said to his son, 'Spend time
piously in Uttama Bhakti Marga i.e. in holy devotion. All that I told you will
happen." Then Mahalsapathi uttered the word 'Ram’ and breathed his last. Thus
he passed away in calm faith and cheerfuhess on the 12th September 1922. This
death was a fitting termination to a pure, lofty and dedicated life—a life of Love,
faith and total surrender.

May Baba bless his departed soul

CHAPTER- 12 : DASGANU MAHARAJ
Ganpatrao Dattatreya Sahashrabudhhe later called as Das
Ganu Maharaj was the great devotee of Baba who had
came to Shirdi in 1892. He was one of the witness of so
many leelas of Baba. He had spread the leelas of Baba
across the whole Maharashtra through his bhajans.He was
the first devotee of Baba who had got the Prayag Snan
through the water oozed from the holy feets of baba.He
was the devotee of Lord Vitthal of Pandharpur.He was
regularly going to Pandharpur for darshan of his Lord.But gradually he felt that
Baba was an incarnation of God and all deities are inside his Sadguru Shri
Saibaba. Then he wrote the Aarati of Baba by describing as,

Shirdi maajhe Pandharapura Saibaba Ramavara

Baba Ramavara, Sai Baba Ramavara…..

The meaning of which is Shirdi is my Pandharpur. Sai Baba is the husband of

Raama i.e. Lord Vishnu. Baba is the presiding deity there. Sai…
His another two bhajans which are being sing during the Aarati of Baba,

Sai raham nazar karna, Bachonka palan karna

Jana tumne jagata pasara Sabahi jhut jamana
Sai raham nazar karna, Bachonka palan karna……

The meaning of which is Sai, look at us mercifully, and take care of your
children,You know this mundane world, this world full of illusion.Sai, look at
us mercifully, and take care of your children

Raham nazar karo, ab moree Sayee,

Tumbin naheen mujze maa baap bhayee
Raham nazar karo Raham nazar karo….

The meaning of which is Look at me mercifully, O my Sai,

without you I have no one – no mother, no father, no brother.
Look at me mercifully.

After serving Baba for a long period, He took Samadhi on 26th November
1962 of auspicious Kartik Masa, Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi in Pandharpur.

May Baba bless his departed soul.

CHAPTER- 13 : MADHAVRAO DESHPANDE
Madhavrao Deshpande was one of such devotee of Baba
who was a friend of Baba rather a devotee.Although He
was very younger to Baba, but Baba treated him as his
representative. He had attended many functions on
behalf of Baba and only on the permission granted by
Baba. Many times He was acting as one of the mediator
between the devotees and Baba. The devotees who
wanted to take permissions from Baba, to give a holy
touch of baba’s hand to any artiles or books & to beg
something from Baba, they used to take the help of Shyama to facilitate it.Baba
very much liked him. Baba called him as Shyama.Baba had given so many books
and articles for his custody.If you minutely read the life history book of
Baba”Shri Sai Satcharita”, you can find the name of Shyama in approx. in every
chapter. He is also one of the devotee of Baba who had with the companion of
Baba for more than 35 years.

Shyama had a deep devotion along with love towards Baba. One of the
incident that has been noted by Sri G.S.Khaparde in his Shirdi diary on 8th
December 1911 by witnessing himself and narrating that “Madhavarao
Deshpande was here & fell asleep. I saw with my own eyes, & heard with my
own ears what I only read about but never experienced that with every
outgoing & in drawing breath of Madhavarao Deshpande comes the clear sound
of “Sayin Nath Maharaj Sayin Nath Baba ” This sound is as clear as clear can be
& when Madhavrao snores, the words can be heard even at a distance. This is
really wonderful & he is in deep sleep all the time.”

Even after Baba’s Mahasamadhi, his devotion and love maintained till end
of his life.When the Shirdi Sai Baba Sansthan was formed Shyama was staying in
Dixit Wada. About four months before he expired there was some
misunderstanding and Shyama was asked to vacate Dixit Wada within two
months. He did so and came back to his home which is near Baba's Dwarakamai.
Shyama was quite a healthy villager and lived upto 80 years.

On 25th April 1940, Thursday at about twelve noon Shama lost

consciousness. And on the late night of same day Chaitra Krishna Chaturthi day
i.e., on Thursday, 26th April 1940 Shama breathed his last and became one with
his Sadguru.

May Baba bless his departed soul.

CHAPTER- 14 : LAXMIBAI SINDHE
Laxmibai Sindhe was one of ladies devotee of Baba who
was allowed to step in the Masjid at night.Her devotion
towards Baba was really from the core of the heart. She
married at the age of thirteen only. She became widow
after some years of her marriage. She was laborious. After
demise of her husband she was appointed as a tax
collector by the British Government. She had done her
duty honestly and with determination.

Baba had never forget her service. For this before his Mahasamadhi Baba
called laxmibai and gave her 9 rupees coin to brought prominently to her notice
the nine characteristics of a good disciple.

Another incident in which Baba had revealed that how He is pervaded all
the creatures and transcended them. He is omnipresent, birthless, deathless and
immortal. It was an evening. Baba was sitting in the Masjid with Tatya. Laxmibai
came and saluted Baba. The latter said to her - "Oh Laxmi, Iam very hungry."
Off she went saying - "Baba, wait a bit, I return immediately with bread." She
did return with bread and vegetables and placed the same before Baba. He took
it up and gave it to a dog. Laxmibai then asked - "What is this, Baba, I ran in
haste, prepared bread with my own hands for You and You threw it to a dog
without eating a morsel of it; You gave me trouble unnecessarily." Baba replied
- "Why do you grieve for nothing? The appeasement of the dog's hunger is the
same as Mine. The dog has got a soul; the creatures may be different, but the
hunger of all is the same, though some speak and others are dumb. Know for
certain, that he who feeds the hungry, really serves Me with food. Regard this
as an exiomatic Truth."

After engaging a number of years in the service of Baba, Lakshmi Bai Shinde
took Samadhi on 2nd June 1963. She died peacefully after Shej Aarti. Prior to
her demise, she asked her relatives to read aloud Chapter 42 of the holy Shri Sai
Satcharitra. By chanting the name of ‘SAI’, she passed away.

May Baba bless her departed soul.

CHAPTER- 15 : MADHAVRAO ADKAR
He is blessed devotee of Baba who has composed the hymn
“Aaarati Saibaba Saukhyadatara jiba Charana rajatali”. His
physical body may have dissolved in the soil, but his
composition & his name is being sung today in Baba’s
Aaarati.

Ichhita dina chataka, nirmala toya nija sukha

Pajanwe madhavaya, sambhal apulibhaaka, apulibhaaka
Aarti Sai Baba, saukhyadatara jeeva, Charana rajatalee
Dyava dasa bisawa, bhakta bisawa. Aarti Sai Baba ….
(The last part of Aarati Saibaba)

The meaning of which is “ Just as the chatak bird desires to drink pure raw
water , so O Lord! And kindly give this Madhav your assurance (that I will
receive such direct knowledge from you).
His hobbies were to visit on pilgrimage & to stay with the saints. Once he
came to Shirdi after darshan of Shri Gajanan Maharaj at Shegaon. He knew
Dasganu Maharaj earlier.In Shirdi he composed the bhajan of Baba Aarati
Saibaba… and shown to Dasganu Maharaj. After being read by Dasganu
Maharaj, he felt unbound happiness and told, this bhajan will be sung daily
during Aarati of Baba & this bhajan will save crores of devotees from the jaws
of bad time.

When Madhavrao Adkarji was on his death bed, he called his son
Ramachandra to his bedside on 13th November 1955 and said: “Write to Shirdi
Sansthan to send a Kafni to us”. Just few days after this, i.e., on 18th November
1955 he said: “Ram, you please sing Baba’s Aarti. Receite 15th Chapter of
Bhagavad Gita. Chant the name of Baba and also recite Vishnu Sahasranam”.

His Son Ramachandra Adkar asked his father Madhavrao “Anna, What is
your wish?”. To which Madhavrao Adkarji said: “I am happy and satisfied on
everyone. Do not stop reciting the chantings”. The entire family members of
Madhavrao Adkarji were singing Baba’s Aarti and in the middle of Aarti,
Madhavrao Adkarji breathed his last. Thus, he even took his final rest while
Baba’s Aarti was being sung.

May Baba bless his departed soul.

CHAPTER- 16 : NANASAHEB NIMONKAR

He was the special Magistrate in Sangamner Taluka.He had

a special respect towards Baba.In 1890, He first met Baba in
the Maruti temple of Rahata.After that He had gone to
Shirdi with Balwantrao, father of Shyama. Balwantrao
thought that Baba was a mad fakir.When they reached in
Dwarakamai, Baba thrown stone towards Balwantrao but
welcomed Nanasaheb. In 1898 Nanasaheb offered a
khadau paduka to Baba for wearing the same going to
Lendibaug. But, Baba weared the paduka and returned it to Nanasaheb for
worship.

One of the major service was provided by Nanasaheb that during the
Ramnavmi festival celebration in Shirdi, he was providing a flag to be hoisted
on Dwarakamai.When baba was going to Lendi baug, Nanasaheb was also with
him. One of the important event was that during the time of Mahasamadhi of
Baba, Nanasaheb was present. He poured the water into the mouth of Baba,
but It came out. Then he cried out loudly 'Oh Deva.' Baba seemed just to open
His eyes and say 'Ah' in a low tone.

He was a fortunate devotee of Baba as he was staying in Shirdi after his

retirement from service. After staying with companion of Baba for a long period
Nana Saheb Nimokar passed away peacefully just three months after Shri Sai
Baba took MahaSamadhi on the auspicious Pushya Bahula Ekadashi Day i.e., on
Monday, 27th Janauary 1919.

May Baba bless his departed soul.

CHAPTER- 17 : KUSHALCHAND

Kushalchand was the fortunate devotee to whose house at

Rahata, Baba was going . Even though Kushal Chand was
a Marwari he had a great liking for Sai Baba and they used
to meet very frequently. Kushal Chand's father
Ramachandra Sand passed away in 1960. His Brother
Chandrabhan Sand also passed away on 7th December
1911. Even after the passing away of Ramachandra Sand
and Chandrabhan Sand Sai Baba's relationship with the
family continued. Infact, Baba's loving concern for the
family doubled. Under the watchful eyes of Baba, Kushal Chand grew steadily
and so long as he lived Baba watched over his welfare day and night.

Baba would come here very frequently. If Kushalchand did not go to

Shirdi for a week, he would say, “Why has Kushalchand not come? Tatya, get
the horse-cart ready. I must go and see him.” Tatya would get the cart ready
and Baba would come in that to Rahata. Sometimes he would not even wait
for the cart but would come walking to see him. Kushalchand’s gardens
extended to the borders of the village in those days. His watchman would come
running and inform them that Baba was soon arriving. Kushalchand and others
would hurry to the outskirts of the village with musical accompaniments and
would receive affectionately, respectfully and ceremoniously by the family
members & villagers of Rahata amidst clash of Musical instruments like Drums,
Shehnai etc.welcome Baba to our house. Kushalchand make Him comfortable
in His seat and would offer Him refreshment. The both would sit and talk about
old days which made them happy. Baba would then return to Shirdi along with
His companions in a horse drawn carriage arranged by Late Shri.Kushal Chand
Sand.

The intimacy Baba had with Kushalchand was so great that Baba once
said, “Kushal, arrange a place for me to stay here. I will settle down here with
you.” Kushalchand very happily agreed then and there to arrange a place for
Baba to stay. But Baba stayed on in Shirdi.

Kushal Chand passed away peacefully on 15th November 1918, the exactly a
month of Baba’s Mahasamadhi.

May Baba bless his departed soul.

CHAPTER- 18 : ANNASAHEB DABHOLKAR
Govind Raghunath Dabholkar ( Annasaheb
Dhabolkar or Hemadpanth) is the devotee of Baba
who has written the life history of Shri Saibaba
named by Shri Sai Satcharita.Through his writings
Baba had spread his leelas throughout the world.He
was one of the fortunate devotee to whom on dola
purnima day of 1917, Baba in dream said that he
would come for meals that day and finally he
arrived in the form of a photo. His all family
members were the devotees of Baba including his
son-in-law.
Though he first visited Shirdi in the year 1910, but he could be able to get
the permission of Baba for writing his life history in 1916.It may be noted that
he started writing Shri Sai Satcharitra in the year 1910 after inspired by the
grinding leela of Baba. Hence by the time Baba took Mahasamadhi, Hemadpant
had barely written two or three chapters. Most of his work was written after
1918. He actually started wiriting "The Pothi" in 1922 and it was published in the
year 1929 after Hemadpant took Samadhi. This is a composition of 9308 verses
in Marathi in Ovi Meter, on the life and teachings of Saibaba on the lines of
Eknath's Bhagwat. It is usually sung rather than read.
This Pothi should be in every house, and should be lovingly and
respectfully read. Baba will be pleased by removing ignorance and poverty, will
give knowledge, wealth and prosperity. With a concentrated mind if one reads
at least a Chapter daily, it will give unbounded happiness. This work should be
read at home specifically on Ram Navmi,Gurupurnima,Dasaherra and on other
holy days. If you study this one book all your desires will be satisfied and Sai
will easily make you cross this Bhava Sagara. The sick will get health, poor will
get wealth and the mind will get steadiness.

After being staying with the companion with Baba for more than 7 years
Annasaheb leave this world on 19th July 1929, Karkata Sankranti.

May Baba bless his departed soul

CHAPTER- 19 : BAPUSAHEB JOG
In the year 1909 Bapusaheb (Sakharam Hari) Jog on
retirement from Govt. service came to stay at Shirdi
permanently accompanied by his wife Tai Bai. Baba liked
him very much.in the year 1912 Baba unveiled one of the
mystery of past birth. Baba told that in previous birth he
was lived with Bapusaheb Jog, Dada Kelkar, Madhavrao
Deshpande, Dadasaheb Khaparde & Kakasaheb Dixit in a
blind alley (a narrow lane closed from one side). That’s
why they were together in this birth.
On 17.01.1912, due to illness of Megha, Bapusaheb
Jog performed the noon Aarati. Baba entrusted the responsibility of doing aarati
to Bapusaheb Jog permanently after Megha's death on 19th January 1912.Once
Bapu Saheb asked Baba, as to when He would give him Sanyas. Baba replied,
“As soon as you are free from your worldly responsibilities”. After demise of his
wife in 1918, He became free from the worldly responsibilities.
After Kaka Saheb Dixit’s death the other devotees left Shirdi. Being quite
alone, Bapu Saheb decided to go to Sakori. There he wore a Kafni, and took
Sanyas. His decision to go to Sakori is perplexing, as he and Upasani, another
disciple of Baba never had a cordial relationship. Once he dragged Upasani and
brought him to Dwarakamai. Then he proceeded to tell Baba about the
disagreement and asked Baba to be the judge. Nevertheless at Sakori he
attended to Upasani with the same devotion as he would to Baba.

This incident happened just six months before Bapu Saheb took Samadhi.
Kaka Saheb Dixit took Samadhi on Ekadashi day in the Jyeshta masa of Shake
1848 (1926). Bapu Saheb took Samadhi exactly six months later. It so happened
that a devotee had a vivid dream. In the dream the devotee saw a group of
devotees seated before Baba. These devotees were had their eyes open. Next
to them sat Kaka Saheb Dixit but he had his eyes closed, as if he was in
meditation. Next to Dixit was a seat that was vacant. The devotee in his dream
asked Baba why the seat next to Kaka was vacant? And why did Kaka have his
eyes closed? Baba replied, That Dixit was a new comer and the empty seat was
reserved for another dear devotee who would follow six months later. In this
way, Baba had forewarned Bapu Saheb Jog’s death. Bapusaheb merged with
Baba on dtd.15th December 1926, Mokshyada Ekadashi & Gita Jayanti.

May Baba bless his departed Soul

CHAPTER- 20 : JYOTINDRA TARKHAD
Jyotindra Tarkhad is the son of Ramchandra
Atmaram & Sitadevi Tarkhad. In the Ch.9 of Shri Sai
Satcharita, about the Tarkhad family has been
described. Though a few information may be given
in Satcharita, but Jyotindra Tarkhad had a huge live
experiences with Baba as He had direct interaction
with Baba from 1908 to 1918. He had come to Shirdi
17 times in these 10 years. He was staying at Shirdi
for 8 to 30 days in each time. Baba liked him very
much. Baba was calling him as Bhau. He was an eye
witness for so many miraculous events happened in Shirdi & other places on the
grace of Baba, such as He had experienced a dead body got life after the hymn
“Sai Rehem Nazar Karna,Bachhonka palan karna” sung by Dasganu, Baba saved
him from cloudburst in Shirdi, The Murti of Lord Vithoba at pandharpur slided
down the platform,salvation to the tiger came to Shirdi,Control over rain &
storm, control over fire power, bathing by Megha to Baba on Makar Sankranti
& many more.
It was the month of July 1965. He was having illness, i.e had severe
bronchitis followed by a catch in the waist, which forced him to lie-down in
bed. His condition worsened day by day and under the advice of Dr.Joshi he
was admitted in Nanavati Hospital at Santacruz. Then came the 16th August
1965, day of Sankranti and that was a Monday in the month of Shravan as per
Marathi calendar. Around 3.30 p.m. in the hospital, his wife gave a cup of tea
to him. He felt better and around 4 p.m. he once again asked for tea . His wife
told him that only half an hour ago she had given him the tea and as it was
Shravan Monday she would go home early. At 5.00 p.m. she would give him
the tea and then would leave for home. But he insisted that she should give him
the tea as he was seeing something, which is not very clear. His wife told him
not to worry and she gave him the Mala of Tulsi beeds in his hand and asked
him to pray for Baba. She also applied the sacred Udi on his forehead. No
sooner he took the first sip of tea, he started telling his wife that someone is
calling but he can't see the face clearly and make out who the person was. His
wife then told him that we are only two people present in this room and he
should do "BABA'S JAPA" with the Tulsi Mala. He then started murmuring Baba's
name. For a short while his face had turned brighter. The agony of pain had
disappeared and he almost shouted saying "Baba I am coming to you" (BABA
MEE ALO). These were the last words and he was lifeless. This was his end.
May Baba bless his departed soul.
CHAPTER- 21 : KRISHNARAO J BHISMA
Krishnarao Jogeswar Bhishma was the ardent devotee of
Baba who had composed many Aarti hymns such as
“Ghewuniya pancharati, karoo Babansi aarati”,
”Utta utta Sri Sainatha guru charana kamala daavaa”,
”Kaakad aarati kareto Sainatha deva”,
” Prabhat samayi nabha shubha ravi prabha phakalee”
“Shri Sadguru Baba Sai ho Shri Sadguru Baba Sai”,
”Jaya Deva Jaya Deva Datta avadhuta”,
“Jai jai Sainatha aataa, pahudave mandiri ho,” &
“Aata Swami sukhe nidra kara avadhuta,”

He possessed a very good quality that he believed everyone. He had a belief

that if you will not cheat anyone, no one will cheat you. He always kept him
away from quarrelling with others. He had no anger & no jealousy towards
anyone. Though he was a Brahmin, He didn’t believe in caste system. He first
came to Shirdi with his friend G.S.Khaparde on 5th December 1911. Many times
he had come to Shirdi. In his staying at Shirdi, He wrote all the above hymns
and sung bhajans at Night. After Baba took MahaSamadhi in the year 1918,
Bhishma stopped taking food every day and took food only once in a year i.e.,
Dwadashi Day of Margashira Masa which happened to be the festival of
Sachidananda Swamy. On all the other days of the year, he used to survive only
by taking Fruits, Milk etc. This austerity he continued for 17 long years.

He went on a pilgrimage all over India. In the year 1930, he went on a

pilgrimage from Rameshwar to Kashi and again from Kashi to Rameshwar.
Finally when he returned back to Mohpa in the year 1933, people accepted him
to be a Siddapurush. He continued to do Social Service relentlessly. From 1934,
his health started deteriorating. On the auspicious day of Nag Panchami in the
year 1935 his health condition became worse. But, he survived only because of
the excellent will power that he had. During that time, he was conducting
research on Ramayan. During the last one year before he took Samadhi,
Bhishma survived by consuming Milk only. Thus, Bhishma lived the life of a
great Yogi.

One day when his Daughter in law asked him whether he has been called
by Lord Ram, Bhishma had already knew about his death. Bhishma replied her
"my time to depart from this world has come. Kindly give the holy water of
Sachidananda Swami". His daughter in law promptly made him drink the holy
water of Sachidananda Swami. He uttered "Ram-Ram", took the holy water and
breathed his last on Saturday, 8th August 1935.

May Baba bless his departed Soul

CHAPTER- 22 : ANNA CHINCHANIKAR
Damodar Ghanashyam Babre ( Anna Chinchanikar)
was the dedicated devotee who was engaged
himself selflessly in massaging Baba. He had so
many properties and houses but after listening
about Baba he along with his wife came to Shirdi
and stayed forever with Baba. After Baba’s
Mahasamadhi He had donated all his properties to
Saibaba Sansthan legally in the year 1919.

He had a dispute in relating to his property and there was a civil case continuing
in the court. On the grace of Baba ultimately he owned the case and the award
amount of Rs.1800/- as received by Anna was utilized for the repair of Chavadi
on the permission of Baba.On the entrance of the south facing Chavadi,
devotees can see even now a plaque on which it is inscribed "Shri Sai Nath
Babanchi Lakshmi Bai Damodar Babre, Chinchanikar Chavadi, Saka 1859".

He and his wife lived in Shirdi for many years and were devoted to Baba.
For many years they did nishkama seva (selfless service) not expecting or asking
for any favours from Baba. One day Shyama asked Baba why He had not
blessed this couple with a son while other devotee’s were blessed and their
wishes were fulfilled. Baba smiled and said "Has it ever happened, that
whenever anybody has asked me for any thing, that I have not granted it"? Baba
being Antaryami saw that the son would only continue the name of Anna for
one generation. While Baba wanted Anna's name to last for a very very long
time. After leading a successful life Shri.Anna Chichanikar took Samadhi on 15th
April 1920.

May Baba bless his departed Soul.

CHAPTER- 23 : DAMU ANNA KASAR
Damodar Savalram Rashne( Damu Anna Kasar) was a
businessman of Ahmednagar. He was a staunch
believer of Astrology. One renowned Astrologer told
him that there was no children in his fate. Then after
listening the leelas of Baba he came to Shirdi in the
year 1895. After blessed by Baba with mango Leela
damu Anna had a son in 1896. In 1897, for the first
time celebration of Urs on Ramnavmi was celebrated
in Shirdi. Since 1897, Damu Anna provided a flag to
be hoisted on Dwarakamai.

Damu Anna had occasional curiosity which prompted him put questions.
First he wanted to know if when so many were crowding around Baba whether
they all got any benefit from him. This was a mental question.
Baba at once replied, “Look at the mango tree in blossom. if all flowers
turn fruit, what a splendid crop it would be? But do they? Most fall of by the
wind. Very few remain.” The second question was, that, if Baba should pass
away, how helpless Damia would be. This also a mental question. To this,
Baba answered, “I will be with you whenever you think of me and
wherever you think of Me.” This was mentioned before 1918 and is fulfilled
even after 1918. Damia used to say that even after his Mahasamadhi, Baba was
still with him. guided him. Thus, Damu Anna was one of the Ankita children of
Baba, whom Baba guided, corrected and helped.

Before his demise, Damusheth called his sons near him and earnestly told
them, “From time to time my Baba has given me money – totaling now to Rs
31. Take care of them even more than your life. These are not simple Rupee
coins – they are Saakshaat Kamdhenu. Make sure that nothing is left wanting in
your service to Shri Sai Baba.” The descendants of Nana Saheb Rasane perform
special pooja to the coins every year on Dhana Trayodashi day which comes
during Deepavali Festival.Damusheth breathed his last at the ripe old age of 89
on 20th January 1941.

May Baba bless his departed Soul.

CHAPTER- 24 : NANASAHEB CHANDORKAR
He was an ardent and staunch devotee of Baba who had
not come to baba like other devotees,rather Baba called
him many times to take him to Shirdi. Baba sent several
messages to Mr. Chandorkar- through one of His
devotees- Mr. Appa Kulkarni who was working as a clerk
in Chandorkar’s office. In spite of several messages
Chandorkar did not take seriously Baba’s invitation to
visit Shirdi because he did not like to entertain such
persons as sadhus or fakirs and believed that these
persons do not have divine powers and through their
magical tricks they attract innocent and ignorant people for their money -
making business and thus encouraged blind belief which is not based on any
scientific, objective or rational thought or judgment.
Ultimately however he came to Shirdi. Baba welcomed him and said.
"Oh!, you have at last come to me after several messages. Nana, you do not
know why from among thousands of Nanas in the world I have specifically
invited you." Nansaheb was forthright in speaking. He said, "Then, tell me the
reason!" Baba replied,"Arre, we have relations spanning over four births. You
do not know this; but I am aware of it. Therefore, I have been repeatedly calling
you! Whenever you have time, do make it a point to come." Ok. I will come."
Nanasaheb bowed before Baba and departed.Then gradually he felt that Baba
was an incarnation of God. He had benefited in spiritual path on the grace of
Baba hundred times more than what he had got in worldly matters.

Nanasaheb was instrumental in bringing most of the devotees to Shirdi for

Baba's darshan. Some of the prominent devotees were: Das Ganu, Radhakrishna
Mai, Moreshwar W.Pradhan, Kaka Saheb Dixit, Govind Raghunath Dabholkar
alias Hemadpant, Tatya Saheb Noolkar, B.V.Deo, Harischandra Pitale, Thakur
(the Surveyor), Ram Baba, Chintaman Vaidya (Vice Chancellor), Chidambar
Keshav Gadgil (Chitnis), Kangaonkar, Bapu Nagarkar, Haridas Bua and many
others. After being passed a golden period with Baba, he merged with Baba on
21st August 1921. Before leaving his body he said,” Baba…..Baba……Baba…”

May Baba bless his departed Soul.

CHAPTER- 25 : RAO BAHADUR S.B.DHUMAL
He was an ardent devotee of Shri Gajanan Maharaj of
Shegaon. He first came to Shirdi in 1907 and at first sight
he was greatly impressed with Baba and completely
devoted to Baba.He was one of the most ardent
devotees of Baba, who surrendered himself entirely to
Baba with the fullest confidence. He acted in very
important matters whether official or professional with
full trust in Baba for the success of his efforts. He took
Gopalrao Butty to Baba and after darshan of Baba,
Butty Saheb also devoted to Baba.

Baba’s love for Dhumal was great and covered both his temporal and
spiritual welfare. Numerous instances throughout his life bear out this
proposition.in point of fact, his contact with Baba was right through all the hours
of the day and night and all the days of the year. Baba sometimes took away
by asking for Dakshina the entire contentsof Dhumal’s pocket, leaving him
penniless.But, Dhumal neither regretted it nor had fear for it. He always told
that baba who gave him and Baba who took and he never failed to provide it.

In respect of Dhumal’s further progress in life after Baba’s Mahasamadhi,

Baba looked after him quite as well as he did before.

Throughout his life, Dhumal benefited greatly in temporal affairs and he

held a high position at Nasik. Consequently he was on the Sai Sansthan
Committee and acted as its trustee up to his death. S.B.Dhumal passed way due
to Heart Attack at the age of 67 on 29th June 1940. So, Dhumal’s life is an
excellent instance of Baba’s giving full temporal and spiritual support to all those
that place implicit reliance on him. Baba’s spiritual help in his case was to
provide sadgati for his wife, and fairly good end for himself because Baba had
kept him pure and full of Nishta or faith in the Guru.

May Baba bless his departed soul.

CHAPTER- 26 : UPASANI MAHARAJ
Kashinath Govind Upasani Sashtri was such a devotee
of Baba who had faced so many troubles & hurdles in
his life to become the Upasani Maharaj. Baba had taken
so many tests of him in every moment of life. Like a
goldsmith who purifies the gold by putting them again
and again in fire to extract it’s purity, similarly Baba
tested Upasani exactly like a Goldsmith.

Baba wanted that Kashinath should be ridded himself from all the contacts
with external world and giving up the Grihasta Ashrama. But, He was still
thinking of his own home at Satana, his wife, his mother, and others. He hoped
to join them after achieving progress under Baba and enjoying the result of that
progress with his family. That was his idea. But that was not Baba's idea. Baba
wanted him to be free from all shackles and absolutely independent of all family
or other connections. Sai Baba wanted to make him feel that he was entirely
dependent upon Sai and Sai alone at least during the period of probation.
Hence. Baba suffered him to get into a number of difficulties for the very
essentials of livelihood.
Food was easy for a time to get, but very soon the food problem became
the main problem of his life. At first he had some money, and lived with the
help of what he could get with his money. But Baba had strange purposes in
asking for dakshinas. Upasani Maharaj had given some dakshinas but retained
Rs.10 with him thinking that he could bank upon it and live upon it till he could
get further sums. But Sai Baba asked him for dakshina of Rs.10 and deprived him
of his bank and reduced him to zero. Then suddenly Kasinath felt he was in mid
sir unsupported. That is just what Sai Baba wanted him to feel. That is, the sishya
must feel that he has no earthly support barring the Guru. The zero is the first
essential for attaining humility and faith and courageous confidence. Zero on
earth is the first step to heaven or self-realisation.

Baba expected Kasinath to develop nishta and saburi and offer these as dakshina
to him. Kasinath was slowly developing both nishta and saburi, and when these
two were perfect, the seeds of instruction sown in the heart of the pupil would
bear fruit.After 5 years of rigorous spiritual training period is over, Kashinath
became Upasani Maharaj. He had acquired some spiritual powers on the grace
of Baba. Baba also send some devotees to wordhip him as Guru.

Before baba’s Mahasamadhi, Upasani moved to Sakori In July 1917 by building

an ashram there. Upasani Maharaj attained Samadhi in Sakori on 24th
December 1941, at the age of 71.

May Baba bless his departed Soul.

CHAPTER- 27 : TATYA KOTE PATIL

Tatya had a unique relationship with Baba and was under

his wing from the age of about seven.As a child Tatya
addressed Baba as mama or uncle and they would play
together. Tatya climbed on Baba’s back and sitting in his
lap.He was so close to Baba that he was slept with him
alongwith mahalsapati in the Masjid for 14 years and after
demise of his father and due to his family responsibilities,
he was compelled to sleep at home.
One of the incident can be described here which shows the intimacy
between Baba & Tatya. Tatya was a renowned farmer in Shirdi. He had so many
lands. After coming from cultivation he was feeling tired & was slept in the
Masjid.One day when he was too much tired and was slept deeply in the Masjid,
due to love & affection Baba massaged his body. Accidentaly tatya waked up
and saw that Baba was massaging him. He got up with angry mood and leave
Dwarakamai. He did not like this type of service from Baba. He did not came
to Masjid for many days. Then kakasaheb told him that Baba was an incarnation
of mercy & compassion. His love & affection towards Tatya was like a mother.
If He did massage to his child, so what’s the problem? Then Tatya understood
and came to Masjid.
Due to childless,Tatya married three times. His third wife too did not bear
him any children. After waiting a long period,at last he decided to adopt a child
from Ramchandra Patil as his successor. He arranged adoption ceremony and
went to Baba for his blessings.Then Baba told him that why you are adopting
any child. You will be blessed by a child. Then Tatya immediately stopped the
adoption ceremony. Again for long time He didn’t get any child. Once He went
to Baba and said "My God! You said that I would get children and hence I had
stopped the adoption ceremony. What do you want me to do now?" Baba
replied, "Tatya, if you get children you will lose your wealth. Choose whether
you want riches or children." Tatya, who was yearning day and night for
children, replied "Let the riches go. I want children." Baba smiled and said,
"Alright then, you want children rather than wealth. You will get as many
children as the litters of a sow. Go now!" Later, when Tatya was 55 years old,
all his wives started bearing children and he ultimately produced a large family.
But as Baba had stated, his prosperity vanished and Tatya had to face many
financial problems. However, by the grace of Sri Sai Baba, he passed away
without a care on 12th March 1945, Trayodashi without being in debt to anyone.
May Baba bless his departed soul.
CHAPTER- 28 : BALASAHEB DEV

He is the composer of the hymn of Aarati,”

Ruso mama priyambika majavari pitahi ruso,
Ruso mama priyangana priyasutatmajahi ruso,
Ruso bhagini bandhuhee swasura sasubayi ruso,
Na Datta Guru Saimaa majavari kadhihi ruso.

The meaning of which is “My darling mother, my father;

my wife, my son, my daughter, my sister, my brother,
my father-in-law, my mother-in-law, all may be annoyed
with me but never my Dattaguru, my mother Sai, be annoyed with me.”
He was one of the ardent devotee of Baba about whom beautifully
described in the holy book Shri Sai Satcharita.Like the story of stealing of rags of
Baba for reading Jnaneswari & appearance of Baba in form of a saint with
Bengal dress in the udyapan ceremony.
Shri.B.V.Deo completed his full period of service even with an extension
of three months; but still he wanted further extension of one year. Baba
appeared in a dream in one night and told him that he was looking into his
accounts. Surprisingly, the Collector also recommended his extension and he got
one year extension with Baba’s Grace. He retired in 1911 and went to Baba and
tried to do Pada Pooja at the instance of Dixit. However Baba stopped him and
said. “You need not worship. You have given me Dakshina. That is enough”.
After retirement, he served Baba for as many years as 35 years. At last this
mahabhakta Shri.B.V.Deo passed away peacefully on 1st January 1946.

May Baba bless his departed soul.

CHAPTER- 29 : GANESH . S . KHAPARDE

He was one of the great devotee of Baba. Before

coming to Baba he was an ardent devotee of Shri
Gajanan Maharaj of Shegaon . He was a renowned
Indian Lawyer, Scholar & political activist. His house
was at Amravati. He was such a fortunate devotee
whose house was sanctified by the arrival of the great
saint Shri Gajanan Maharaj . Before his
Mahasamadhi, Shri Maharaj called to Sri Khaparde
and advised him to go to Shiladhi(Shirdi) to stay
under the refuge of Shri Saibaba. In 1910, he came to Shirdi for the first time. His
notable & noble work for the devotees which he had left is his “SHIRDI
DIARY”,in which He had recorded the live incidents with Baba during his stay
in Shirdi. This diary had helped many researchers to find out many information
about Baba’s activities, about the devotees who were present at that time, as it
is one of the authentic record of baba’s literature.
Baba liked him very much. The devotees called him Dadasaheb Khaparde.
He had come to Baba for five times during Baba’s life time.His second visit was
from Dec 1911 to March 1912.This long stay was due to the mercy of Baba. Baba
wanted to keep him at Shirdi due to political disturbances and to save
Dadasaheb from imprisonment which may be decided by British Government
which was known from future events.In his Shirdi Diary He had narrated many
devotional incidents, out of which two blissful incidents may be narrated here,
One is on 8th December 1911, He had written that “Madhavarao Deshpande was
here & fell asleep. I saw with my own eyes, & heard with my own ears what I
only read about but never experienced that with every outgoing & in drawing
breath of Madhavarao Deshpande comes the clear sound of “Sayin Nath
Maharaj Sayin Nath Baba ” This sound is as clear as clear can be & when
Madhavrao snores, the words can be heard even at a distance. This is really
wonderful & he is in deep sleep all the time.”
Another is on 1st January 1912, He narrated that “Baba unveiled one of the
mystery of past birth. Baba told that in previous birth he was lived with
Bapusaheb Jog, Dada Kelkar, Madhavrao Deshpande, Dadasaheb Khaparde &
Kakasaheb Dixit in a blind alley (a narrow lane closed from one side). That’s
why they were together in this birth.”
After Baba’s Mahasamadhi, he lived more than 19 years under the refuge of
Baba and on 1st July 1938, he passed away peacefully.
May Baba bless his departed Soul.
CHAPTER- 30 : WAMANRAO PATEL

He was a devotee of Baba who was born on the

blessings of Baba in the year 1889.His parents were
came to baba to beg a child perhaps in 1887 or 1888.In
the year 1911 he came to Shirdi for darshan of Baba.
Before coming to Shirdi He was asking one question to
all saints, knowledgeable persons & devotees that
whether God exists ? and who can show me God ?
When he reached Shirdi and prostrated before Baba,
baba told him that,”being a human being you doubt
on the existence of Almighty ! Go away from here.” Wamanrao immediately
thought that ,” He is the God to whom I am searching.”
After that He had come many times to Shirdi. In 1916,the construction of
Butty wada was going on.One day while he was near Butty wada,a big stone
was fallen on his head causing an injury.With the medicines given by Baba,he
was cured on the grace of baba and no scar was visible on his head. Wamanrao
told that at the time of head injury he was feeling the supreme and blissful joy.
Once Baba gave his kafni to a devotee named by Muktaram.As the kafni
was dirty, Muktaram washed it and placed it for drying in Dixitwada.After this
muktaram went for darshan of Baba. Then Wamanrao was present in Dixitwada
where the kafni was hanging .Wamanrao listened a voice coming from kafni
that “see muktaram has brought me here and kept me upside down.Wamanrao
take it immediately and wore it himself.After wearing kafni,Wamanrao went to
masjid.baba got angry when he saw the kafni worn by Wamanrao.Thereafter
He had achieved the advancement in spiritual matters and subsequently he is
known as Swami Sai Saranananda.
He had written many books on Baba such as “Gurusmriti” in Gujrati
language,baba’s life history,”Saibaba” in Gujrati language and another book in
English language, “Saibaba, The Superman”.One of the important fact is He had
unveiled the curtains that was put before Saibaba’s idol which was installed at
Shirdi on 7th October,1954, Vijayadashmi day.
After many years of service to Baba, Swami Sai Saranananda merged with Baba
on 25th August 1982 at the age of 93 years.

May Baba bless his departed soul.

CONCLUSION:

When an incarnation comes to this world, Many fortunate people would have
been attached to him. The responsibility of their care and death also handled by
him. Similarly was the case with our beloved Baba. He had indeed came for
that. Once he told to his intimate devotee Shyama that,”I have been feeding
and nursing you and have got love and affection for you". We must pay our
heartily respect and salutations on the holy feet of Baba by praying that, “Oh
Sainath, my Lord, like the above fortunate devotees, give us darshan during the
time of our leaving this world and take us to your abode in the air coach(Viman)
after our death.

May Baba bless us all.

OM SHRI SAI SADGATI PRADAYA NAMAHA.