SHRI SAI SATCHARITA CHAPTER 40

The Miracles of Baba: Udyapan Ceremony and Shimga Dinner

Sai Baba's leelas are timeless testaments to His omnipresence and benevolence. Two of these wondrous incidents, where He blessed His devotees in unique ways, are chronicled in this chapter. These stories not only underline Baba's ability to transcend time and space but also emphasize the transformative power of unwavering faith.

Baba Attends Mrs. Dev’s Udyapan Ceremony

Mr. B.V. Dev, a Mamlatdar in Dahanu, had planned an Udyapan ceremony for his mother, who had observed several religious vows. The ceremony required feeding hundreds of Brahmins, and Mr. Dev was keen on having Sai Baba grace the occasion. He wrote to Bapusaheb Jog, requesting him to extend the invitation to Baba.

SHRI SAI SATCHARITA CHAPTER 40

When Jog read the letter to Baba, the latter responded with a promise: “Three of us—Myself, you, and another—will attend the ceremony.” Though Mr. Dev was elated to hear this, he also harbored doubts, as Baba rarely traveled beyond Rahata, Rui, and Nimgaon.

Meanwhile, a Bengali Sanyaasi, accompanied by two young men, appeared at Mr. Dev’s residence, ostensibly seeking donations for a noble cause. When informed of the upcoming ceremony, the Sanyaasi expressed a desire to join the feast, assuring his return at noon.

True to his word, the trio arrived precisely at the appointed hour, dined, and left quietly. After the ceremony, Mr. Dev wrote to Jog, lamenting that Baba had not kept His promise. However, Baba clarified through Jog: “I attended the ceremony with two others, but he failed to recognize Me.”

This incident taught Mr. Dev the profound lesson that Baba’s presence is not limited to His physical form. It is His divine assurance that fulfills His promises, often in ways beyond our comprehension.

Hemadpant’s Shimga Dinner: The Miracle of the Picture

The second story unfolds in Bandra in 1917. On the morning of Holi, Hemadpant had a dream where Baba, in the guise of a well-dressed Sanyaasi, promised to visit for lunch. Overjoyed, Hemadpant shared the vision with his wife, who skeptically questioned how Baba could leave Shirdi to dine at their modest home.

SHRI SAI SATCHARITA CHAPTER 40

Nevertheless, preparations went on with devotion. When the meal was ready, a seat was reserved for the special guest. As the family waited, footsteps were heard on the staircase. Two men, Ali Mohammed and Moulana Ismu Mujavar, appeared at the door carrying a wrapped package. 

Unwrapping the parcel revealed a magnificent picture of Sai Baba. Hemadpant, overwhelmed with emotion, placed the picture on the seat of honor and offered Naivaidya before the family commenced their meal. This miraculous event affirmed Baba's words from the dream, proving that He always fulfills His promises, even if in unexpected ways.

Lessons from These Divine Leelas

These stories exemplify Baba's omniscience and omnipresence. They teach us that:

SHRI SAI SATCHARITA CHAPTER 40

1.Faith Transcends Form:Baba’s presence is not confined to His physical being. Recognizing Him requires faith and an open heart.

2.Surrender Invites Grace:When devotees surrender completely, Baba ensures their spiritual and worldly duties are fulfilled.

3.Miracles Manifest Through Devotion:Baba’s leelas often defy logic, reminding us that divine intervention transcends human understanding.

Let us bow to Shri Sai, whose grace continues to guide and bless His devotees. May His stories inspire unwavering devotion and trust in His divine will. 

Bow to Shri Sai – Peace be to all.