SHRI SAI SATCHARITA CHAPTER 49

Chapter XLIX: Stories of Devotion and Revelation

The chapter begins by acknowledging the difficulty of capturing the essence of the divine, especially the greatness of Shri Sai Baba. Even the sacred texts like the Vedas and Puranas fall short in their attempts to describe the Supreme Being. Therefore, the best approach to honor the Sadguru is through silence and devotion. Yet, the sweetness of Baba’s stories compels one to share them, much like how a feast becomes more enjoyable when shared with loved ones.  

This chapter recounts three stories of individuals whose encounters with Sai Baba were transformative: Hari Kanoba, somadev Swami, and Nanasaheb Chandorkar. Each tale highlights Baba’s omniscience and unique ability to guide devotees, whether through gentle means or harsh lessons.

SHRI SAI SATCHARITA CHAPTER 49

Story 1: The Test of Faith – Hari Kanoba

Hari Kanoba, a gentleman from Mumbai, approached Shirdi with a doubting mind. Having heard many miraculous tales of Sai Baba, he decided to test Baba himself. Clad in a lace-bordered turban and new sandals, he placed his footwear in a corner of the courtyard and went for Baba's darshan. Upon his return, to his dismay, his sandals were missing.

During his meal, a Maratha boy arrived holding a stick with a pair of sandals dangling at its end. The boy announced that Baba had instructed him to cry aloud, "Hari Ka Beta, Jari Ka Pheta" (Hari, the son of Ka, with a lace-bordered turban). Overwhelmed, Hari claimed his sandals and marveled at Baba's omniscience. Though it was his first visit to Shirdi, Baba knew his name, lineage, and even his unique turban. This incident transformed Hari Kanoba into a believer and deepened his respect for Baba’s divinity.

Story 2: The Lesson of Judgment – Somadev Swami

Somadev Swami, a seeker from the Himalayas, was curious about Sai Baba after hearing His stories from Bhaiji, the brother of Kakasaheb Dixit. However, upon nearing Shirdi, Swami noticed two flags atop the mosque and questioned the need for such paraphernalia for a saint. Doubts about Baba’s genuineness clouded his mind, prompting him to consider abandoning the visit.  

Encouraged by fellow travelers, Swami reluctantly entered the Masjid. Baba, perceiving his inner skepticism, admonished him sternly, saying, “Why take darshan of one who flies flags? Leave at once!” The harsh words shook Swami, forcing him to reflect deeply. He realized Baba’s rebuke mirrored his own doubts and served as a lesson to shed judgment and embrace faith. This turning point solidified his devotion, and he later became one of Baba’s staunch devotees.

SHRI SAI SATCHARITA CHAPTER 49

Story 3: The Power of Discrimination – Nanasaheb Chandorkar

Nanasaheb Chandorkar, a close devotee of Baba, was present in the Masjid when a Muslim gentleman from Bijapur arrived with veiled women. Feeling uncomfortable, Nanasaheb attempted to leave, but Baba stopped him. When one of the women removed her veil to bow at Baba’s feet, her beauty distracted Nanasaheb, igniting restlessness in his mind.

Baba, aware of his inner turmoil, addressed him later:  

“Why fear the senses? Let them do their work, but do not meddle unnecessarily. When the heart is pure, there is no room for fear or shame.”

Later, Nanasaheb explained to Shama, another devotee, that Baba’s advice was about controlling the senses through gradual practice. The mind should remain detached even while appreciating the beauty of God’s creation. By cultivating discrimination (Vivek) as one’s guide, the senses can be restrained, and the mind can focus on higher spiritual goals. This guidance helped Nanasaheb deepen his spiritual understanding.

SHRI SAI SATCHARITA CHAPTER 49

Conclusion

Through these stories, Hemadpant emphasizes the importance of unwavering faith in the Sadguru. Baba’s methods—whether through subtle gestures or stern lessons—guide devotees toward self-improvement and spiritual liberation. Each story illustrates that Sai Baba’s omniscience and compassion extend to all, transforming lives in profound ways.

Bow to Shri Sai – Peace be to all.