SHRI SAI SATCHARITA CHAPTER 49
CHAPTER L: Stories of Devotion and Grace
(1) Kakasaheb Dixit, (2) Shri Tembe Swami, and (3) Balaram Dhurandhar
introduction:
Victory to Sai, the eternal guide and solace of devotees! Like sandalwood cooling the summer heat, like clouds refreshing parched lands, and like blossoming flowers offering themselves for worship—so do the stories of Sai Baba uplift and rejuvenate the soul. Both the teller and the listener are sanctified, for the grace of a Sadguru is the ultimate spiritual blessing.
Kakasaheb Dixit (1864–1926)
Hari Sitaram Dixit, affectionately known as Kakasaheb, was born in 1864 in a pious Brahmin family in Khandwa. A brilliant student, he completed his higher education in Mumbai and built a successful legal career. Until 1909, Sai Baba was unknown to him. However, a chance conversation with his friend, Nanasaheb Chandorkar, changed his life.
SHRI SAI SATCHARITA CHAPTER 50
Nanasaheb narrated how Baba’s divine pull was irresistible, likening it to a sparrow tied by a string. Inspired, Kakasaheb resolved to seek not just healing for his injured leg but solace for his restless mind.
In a chain of divinely orchestrated events, Kakasaheb reached Shirdi and experienced Baba's grace. On seeing Baba, Kakasaheb was overwhelmed with tears and joy. Baba welcomed him warmly, declaring He had been waiting for him. This marked the beginning of a beautiful journey of devotion. Kakasaheb built a wada (residence) in Shirdi, making it his spiritual abode. Baba assured him of a peaceful end, a promise fulfilled when Kakasaheb passed away in 1926 while immersed in Sai’s thoughts.
Shri Tembe Swami
A story of profound mutual respect among saints highlights Baba’s universal appeal. Shri Vasudevanand Saraswati, known as Shri Tembe Swami, a devout follower of Lord Dattatreya, heard of Sai Baba and instantly recognized His divinity. Tembe Swami sent a coconut with a message of reverence to Baba, referring to Him as a "brother."
SHRI SAI SATCHARITA CHAPTER 50
The coconut entrusted to a devotee, Mr. Pundalikrao, was accidentally consumed on the way to Shirdi. Despite his remorse, Baba assured him that the incident unfolded as per divine will. This story underscores Baba's teaching of shedding the ego and surrendering to divine providence.
Balaram Dhurandhar (1878–1925)
Balaram Dhurandhar, a distinguished advocate and scholar, became a devotee of Sai Baba in 1912. Along with his brothers, he visited Shirdi, where Baba affectionately referred to them as His "Darbar-people" and revealed their ancient bond spanning sixty generations.
During this visit, Baba offered Balaram the Chillim (pipe) to smoke—a gesture that cured Balaram’s six-year-long battle with asthma. The divine connection deepened when Balaram saw the glow of Lord Pandurang on Baba’s face during the Chavadi procession and Kakad Arati.
SHRI SAI SATCHARITA CHAPTER 50
Balaram’s devotion bore fruits not only in physical healing but also in spiritual transformation. He passed away in 1925, leaving behind a rich legacy of faith. His brothers later published his work on Saint Tukaram, preserving his contributions to spirituality.
Conclusion:
These stories of Kakasaheb Dixit, Shri Tembe Swami, and Balaram Dhurandhar illustrate the boundless grace of Sai Baba. His teachings transcend the mundane,SHRI SAI SATCHARITA CHAPTER 50 urging devotees to embrace humility, faith, and surrender. As we bow to Shri Sai, let His blessings bring peace to all.
Bow to Shri Sai. Peace be to all.
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