Nilkanth charitram

1. KILLING KALIYA

The Saryu River on the outskirts of Ayodhya was overflowing both its banks. Kaushik, the demon, went away after throwing Nilakanth into the river with the intention of drowning him. Kaushik went straight to his leader Kaliya. He was overjoyed and excited, as if he had performed some deed of bravery. He said to his leader, "I have pushed Nilakanth into the Saryu River. By now Nilakanth must have drowned. "

On hearing this, Kaliya said, "You fool, Nilakanth is Lord Narayan incarnate. He is not an ordinary person. He cannot be killed so easily. He will surely swim across the river and reach the other side. Go and alert our army. It’s my order to kill him wherever he emerges from the river.”

Nilakanth was carried away in the flood. He finally reached the opposite bank some twelve miles away. After coming out of the water, he settled down to meditate under a Peepal tree. Kaliya, who had set out in search of him, ultimately reached the spot with his army. He told his group, "Look, the God who has destroyed so many of our demons is sitting here. Don’t let him escape today. He is not aware of our presence. Attack him all at a time."

Nilakanth being antaryamin (omniscient) knew of the evil intention of Kaliya. He kept his eyes closed. When all the demons approached him, he opened his eyes. Divine light emanated from his eyes. All he demons began to burn. Some of them ran away as fast as they could, while others stumbled on the way and died on the spot. Kaushik and Kaliya were burnt to ash and killed there and then.

Nilakanth then proceeded north towards the Himalayan jungles. He forgot his parents, brothers, friends, village and even his home. He walked along just concentrating on his own self. He walked fast and frequently looked back apprehensively, in case somebody should spot him and take him back home.

He walked on and on. Those were the days of monsoon and it rained torrentially.

Undaunted he walked barefooted in the slush, through the dense forests, on the pebbles and the thorns. Being the Lord Himself, he did not have to perform tapas (penance). But for the welfare of the people, however, he set out to perform tapas.

2. SALVATION OF THE ASCETICS

The road was very difficult. There were many dense forests on the way. The growth of vegetation was so thick, that the forests looked dark even during the day.

Nilakanth came to a banyan tree on his journey through a thick and dark jungle. There he saw some ascetics sitting under the tree. He went to them and asked. "Oh saintly ascetics, why have you come here and where will you go from here?" The ascetics replied,

"Oh greatest of all Varnis, we are going to the Himalayas to perform penance. We wish to propitiate Lord Narayan by our penance. We will undergo severe penance, in order to attain salvation."

The ascetics in turn asked Nilakanth, "Oh Varniraj, why have you come here in this fearful jungle alone? Even thought we are so many together, we are still afraid of wild animals at night. How is it that you are moving about so fearlessly? Are you not afraid of wild animals like tigers, wolves and lions? You are clad only in a loin-cloth; don't you feel cold at night?"

Nilakanth replied, "I am Atma (Brahman), distinct from the physical body, and unattached to family and relatives. I am free from desire, anger, avarice and other vices. I am the divine embodiment of the Supreme Lord. I am also going to the Himalayas for the redemption of the jivas (the mortal beings). But how will you attain salvation without meeting Pragat Bhagwan (God in human manifestation)? Even if your bodies were to be emaciated like skeletons through penance, how can you attain salvation without knowing Pragat Prabhu?"

On hearing this, the ascetics were wonder struck. They asked, "Oh Varniraj! Where can we find Pragat Prabhu and when? How can we attain salvation?" Nilakanth thereupon replied, "If you are sincere and earnest in your quest, you will find the God incarnate right here. Recognize Him, and you will immediately attain salvation."

The ascetics were overwhelmed with joy on hearing Nilakanth. They felt Nilakanth himself to be Lord incarnate. They proceeded further along with Nilakanth. They listened to his talks; they attended on him devoutly. Nilakanth was pleased with their services and their faith. He gave darshan to the ascetics as chaturbhuj (four armed) Narayan Bhagwan.

All the ascetics were greatly exhilarated at this darshan.

The journey towards the Himalayas continued. Once, Nilakanth along with the ascetics, decided to pass a night under a banyan tree. Roars of tigers and lions were heard from all sides. The chirping of the cricket, the hissing of the snakes and the hooting of the owls could be heard from time to time. Overpowered with fear all the ascetics tied their hammocks to the branches of a tree and went to sleep in them. Nilakanth, on the other hand, laid down on plain ground, few steps away from the tree.

A dreadful hyena came there at midnight. Giving out a loud howl, it snuffed the ground and going around Nilakanth sat under the banyan tree. The ascetics witnessed this incident up from the tree. The hyena began to stare at the hammocks hanging high up. On seeing this, the breaths of the ascetics were held up through sheer fright. Bewildered, they lay there motionless in their hammocks, and began to pray to Nilakanth as the Lord Himself.

At about day-break, the hyena stood up, looked up at the banyan tree once again and then lashing its tail fiercely on the ground twice, it went away. At that time the complete concentration of the ascetics was focused on Nilakanth. He bestowed salvation on them.

Thus, after uplifting the ascetics, Nilakanth continued his onward journey.

3. TOWARD BADRINATH

After passing through the forest in nine days, Nilakanth walked through Bahadurpur and reached the bank of the river Ganges, He boarded a boat and crossed the river. He walked on until he reached Haridwar. There he took bath in the Ganges and had darshan at the Mahadev temple situated on the bank of the river. It was a kumbha mela (fair) day in Haridwar. The bawas (mendicants) and the vairagis (a clan of sadhus) from all over India had gathered there. The fair was overflowing with the jogis and jatis, the sadhus and the sanyasis of all sorts. Nilakanth went round the fair giving darshan to all and redeeming them. Even Mahadev himself served Nilakanth in the guise of a Brahmin for many days at the fair.

Proceeding from there, Nilakanth reached Tapovan (a penance grove). Nilakanth experienced great joy upon seeing the beautiful grove. He stayed there for ten days. Many ascetics, engrossed in penance for ages, felt overjoyed at the darshan of Nilakanth.

Nilakanth visited the hermitage where Dhruvaji had performed severe penance. From there he reached Lakshmanjula (Lakshmanpura). Here a temple of Lakshmanji stands on the bank of the Ganges. Nilakanth took his bath in the Ganges and paid his homage to the image of Lakshman in the temple. Lakshman himself emerged from the image and bowed at the feet of Nilakanth. Nilakanth gave him darshan in the divine form of God Ramchandra. On this auspicious occasion even Gangaji appeared there in the form of a beautiful woman and bowed to Nilakanth. Seeing her devout feelings, Nilakanth ate few fruits and distributed the rest to Lakshmanji and Gangaji as prasad (consecrated food).

Thinking that Nilakanth must be thirsty, Lakshmanji at once ran down to the river Ganges.

He filled up a pot with sacred water from Ganges after carefully filtering it with his apron and brought it to Nilakanth. Nilakanth's thirst was quenched. In response to the devout affection of Lakshman, Nilakanth stayed there for ten days.

Then Nilakanth crossed the bridge, proceeded further and reached the city of Shreepur. At this place Uddhavji had performed penance thousands of years ago.

Nilakanth visited the place of penance. Knowing the sacredness of the place, Naradji had built the city of Shreepur there. It was also known as Shreekshetra. This place is also known as Dhanushteerth. Nilakanth took bath in the Alaknanda and proceeded to the mountains. First he climbed the Chittabhanga Mountain and then Manbhanga Mountain and went down on the other side. There again he gave darshan to the ascetics who were performing penance. He sanctified Uddhavaji's hermitage by his visit. Then he reached Guptakashi. In, Satya Yuga many ascetics had undergone penance here to please Bholanath Shankarji (Shiv). After having the darshan of Kashivishvanath Mahadev there, Nilakanth reached Uttarakhand (north India). Many old temples are situated here, the

foremost among them being that of Vishvanathji. After darshan, Nilakanth proceeded to Gangotri. Passing through Guptaprayag, he crossed the swinging bridge and went to the Triyugi-narayan temple. After visiting the temple, he arrived at Gaurikund and took bath in the hot water spring. After giving darshan to the goddess in the Parvati temple, he went ahead and reached Kedarnath.

There are twelve natural jyotirlingas (believed to have come out of the earth themselves) in India, out of which one is located here in the temple of Kedarnath. Visiting it and worshipping there, Nilakanth continued his journey towards the greater Himagiri (the higher Himalayas). He walked on through the mountains for nine days and at last reached Badrinath. There in the temple with its brightly decorated pinnacle, he had the darshan of Badrinath, and Nar-Narayan, The priest (pujari) of the temple was deeply drawn towards this child celibate. He saw in Nilakanth God Badrinarayan Himself and out of deep respect for Him, he offered his services onto Him. Everyday he would garland Nilakanth and serve him food. Nilakanth stayed there till the Diwali festival. After the celebration of Annakut-Utsav (feast for the God), Nilakanth proceeded on the way to Joshimatha.

There is a very old temple of Jyotishvar Mahadev in Joshimatha. During the four months of winter the temple of Badrinath is completely covered with ice.

So the idol of Badrinath is brought down and installed in the Jyotishvar temple of Joshimatha and worshipped. Nilakanth stayed here in the temple for a few days.

From Joshimatha, a very steep road passes and leads to Manas Lake and from there to Kailas temple. Nilakanth continued his journey through this difficult Himalayan road, where no human being can go on feet. The cold winds blew like sharp arrows. But, Nilakanth walked on and reached Badrivan (Adi-Badri). This place is known as Thulingmath in Tibetan language. There is the ashram of Narayan Rishi here. The place is very lonely. Nara and Narayan and many other rishis worshipped Nilakanthvarni here.

He stayed in this ashram for three months during winter. Nilakanthvarni performed penance here. After completing his stay here, he went on and reached Lake Manas Sarovar. He took his bath in the clear waters and bestowed his blessings on the white swans gliding gracefully in the lake. This place is the source of the river Saryu. It is from here that Saryu springs and flows along. Nilakanth took bath in the mouth of the river Saryu, paid his obeisance to Mountain Kailas from a distance and turned back. Thus continuing his journey back on foot, he reached Badrinath. King Ranjitsinh of Punjab, who was on a visit to this place, was greatly awed at the sight of Nilakanthvarni. Nilakanth walked on and reached Gangotri. It is the source of Ganga. People generally take bath here in Gangotri itself, and worshipped Gangaji. A temple of Gangaji is also situated here.

Nilakanth continued his journey back and arrived at Haridwar. Here, again, he met King Ranjitsinh. After giving his blessings to him, he proceeded further and arrived in Ayodhya. He stayed in Ayodhya in disguise for a few days, then continued his travels.

4. HANUMANJI'S SERVICES

Without hesitation, Nilakanth continued his journey through the jungles and through wild life. For three days and three nights he walked on. He found no suitable place for rest. At last, at noon of the fourth day, there appeared a Shiva temple on a high hill amidst a jungle. A river flowed by, skirting the foot of the hill below. Nilakanth came down the hill and took bath in the river. He bathed his Shaligram image and placed some cold water before it and then he spread his asana and began to meditate.

Knowing that Nilakanth was hungry, Hanumanji came down from the sky. He plucked and brought a number of sweet and tasty fruits and some vegetables. He collected some dry sticks and lighted a fire and baked some for Nilakanth. Lovingly, he offered the fruits and tubers to Nilakanth to eat. When he woke up from his meditation, Nilakanth gave him some prasad and Hanumanji then bowed to him and disappeared in the sky.

5. DESTRUCTION OF THE GHOSTS AND DELIVERANCE OF YOGIS

After staying for two days in the Shiva temple, Nilakanth resumed his journey. After some time, he came to Mountain Shvetagiri. There was a huge banyan tree at the foot of the mountain. It was spread enough to provide shelter for two thousand persons.

Nilakanth was tired. He came to rest under the shade of the banyan tree. Hanumanji, the son of the god of Wind, was also there at his service.

Nilakanth spread his mrigcharma (seat made of deer skin) in the shade of the tree and stretched himself to sleep. Hanumanji massaged his legs in order to relieve his fatigue.

Terrible noises began to come from all sides when it was past midnight. Huge flames were seen at a far distance. In a short time, fearful shapes began to approach nearer and nearer.

Hanumanji set up and became alert. When he looked around he saw lots of ghosts coming towards the tree from all sides. Some of them were short, while some others were tall and tough. Some were as high as palm trees, and some others were awfully fat. Some had long teeth while others had horns on their heads. They all had large bloody eyes and long nails. Screaming and shouting, the ghosts came near the tree. Kalbhairav was the king of the ghosts. He was walking in front of them all and held a sharp edged spear in his hand.

Kalbhairav came up and shouted an order to his followers, “All of you go at once and slay that boy and that monkey at once."

Hanumanji now enraged on hearing this. With a roar he rushed towards the ghosts.

He whirled his tail around and began to lash out at them. The jungle reverberated with screams and bustle. Some of the ghosts ran for their lives while others stumbling against

one another, and hid themselves. Even the birds and animals of the forest were awakened by the screaming and howling of the ghosts.

Kalbhairav, the king of the ghosts, challenged Hanumanji, "You monkey! Why are you frightening my ghosts? If you’ve any guts, come and fight with me." On hearing this, Hanumanji, with a single jump swooped at him and winding his tail around him held him tight. Then he hit his iron fist on his head. The blow was so severe that Kalbhairav's head sank into his chest. A stream of blood trickled down. All the other ghosts ran away terrified. The night was over and all was quiet again.

At day break Nilakanth woke up, had his bath and performed his worship.

Hanumanji brought some sweet fruits. Nilakanth ate a few and gave the rest to Hanumanji. He was very pleased with Hanumanji and gave him his blessings. Then he proceeded on his way. The higher he climbed the mountain the denser grew the forest.

When he finally reached the top of the mountain, he found himself in the midst of the densest forest. The growth was so thick that not even a single ray of sun reached the earth in the forest. Fearful noises of wild animals were heard from all sides. Scorpions, snakes, and all sorts of creatures and insects abounded the way. But Nilakanth walked through them all bare-footed.

In the middle of the forest, several yogis were performing penance. They saw Nilakanth and were greatly pleased to see him. They thought to themselves, "God Himself has come today to give us darshan. Our penance of many years has at last paid off."

They received Nilakanth honourably. They cleaned a cottage for him to stay and led him to the lake for a bath. After completing bath and worship, Nilakanth asked them, "Wild vegetation seems to be growing here; can I get some fruits to eat?" The yogis replied, "We have got an akshyapatra (inexhaustible pot). It gives us whatever we wish to eat at noon every day."

For four days the yogis served Nilakanth with great loving devotion. They wished for different varieties of eatables, obtained them from the akshayapatra and fed Nilakanth with them. On the fifth day when Nilakanth prepared himself to leave, all the yogis prostrated at his feet and prayed, "Please bless us with your bhakti (devotion) and set us free from this worldly ignorance."

Pleased with them Nilakanth replied, "Continue your meditation for some time more.

I have set out with the only purpose of bestowing deliverance to all. When I reach the Navalakha Mountain, I granted deliverance on nine lakh yogis. You too will get your deliverance." All the yogis were extremely pleased to hear this and bade a warm farewell to Nilakanth.

6. LIBERATION OF THE COBRAS

After promising the yogis of liberation, Nilakanth came down the mountain. There was a sandalwood forest in the valley of the Shvetgiri. Nilakanth crossed the river and reached the opposite bank. After the worship he entered the forest. Sweet fragrance be carried on the breeze from these trees, and set cool atmosphere about.

Nilakanth spread out his seat for rest under a sandalwood tree. He sat down, stretched his legs and looked up. He saw numerous cobras coiled around the branches of sandalwood trees. As soon as Nilakanth looked at them, all of them, one by one, slid down, licked Nilakanth's feet and quietly arranged themselves around him. Spreading their hoods they began to dance rhythmically before him.

Once again Nilakanth looked at them. Immediately they developed speech. They said, "Oh, Aksharpati Purushottam! Oh, Lord Narayan! Please redeem us. For thousands of years we have been sustaining ourselves on wind and undergoing penance. Today we seek your blessings. Please emancipate us. Nilakanth was pleased to hear such humble utterances of the cobras. He blessed all the cobras with salvation.

7. GOD HIMALAYA

After giving deliverance to the cobras, Nilakanth proceeded to Pulhashram in the Himalayan Mountains. Passing by waterfalls, amidst dreadful animals and through thick forests Nilakanth walked on. Darkness spread all over and the way ahead could be seen clearly. Nilakanth lost his way in a cave. Feeling exhausted he spread his mrigcharma (deer skin) on a stone and sat down on it.

At that time Himalaya, the god of the mountains, himself came to Nilakanth, prostrated at his feet and asked, "Oh, merciful God! Where have you come from? What is your wish? I have come here today to serve you." Nilakanth replied, "I am lost on my way to Pulhashram. Please show me the way."

God Himalaya gave Nilakanth two mangoes which he had brought with him. When Nilakanth had finished eating the mangoes, he gave him water of the Ganges to drink.

Thereafter he showed him the way to Pulhashram, bowed and disappeared. Nilakanth passed through caves and crossed the rivers on the way till he reached Pulhashram, situated in Muktanath, after a few days.

8. SEVERE PENANCE

Nilakanth had the darshan of Muktanath. He selected a place in Pulhashram for him to perform penance. Pulhashram was and still is a secluded and extremely lovely place.

Hundreds of years ago Bharatji and Jadbharat had undertaken penance on the bank of the Gandaki - River Ganga.

Nilakanthvarni began His severe penance at the same spot as Bharatji had. He resolved to please Suryanarayan (the Sun god) by holding both His hands high and standing on one leg. His body was thin and fair in complexion. His gaze was fixed on the tip of His nose. He abandoned the care for hunger and thirst. He observed incessant fast and exposing His bare body to cold, heat and lashes of rain, He performed penance.

There were many yogis and munis staying in Pulhashram. They were astounded to see Nilakanth performing severe penance. Nilakanth totally neglected His body. Every bone of His body was visible. The veins in His body were visible. The yogis and the munis thought - “Perhaps Narayan Himself has come to perform such a servere penance.” Each day they came and knelt before Nilakanth and prayed.

“Oh, God! Please bestow upon us the virtues of vairagya (detachment) and penance.”

To protect Nilakanth, Dharmadev and Bhaktimata appeared in the sky on either side of Nilakanth in divine forms. "May God be with you, dear son," they prayed. On the other side were Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh who came for His divine darshan.

Nilakanth was deeply absorbed in meditation. He stood steadily on one leg. Without blinking, he continued such servere penance for six long months. At last in the early morning of the eleventhday of the bright half of the month of kartik, Suryanarayan (the sun god) himself appeared in a human form before Nilakanth to give Him darshan.

Nilakanth happily prostrated at his feet and requested of him, "Kindly give me a boon so that I may be free from vices and have your darshan whenever I remember you."

"So be it," said Suryanarayan and added, "Oh Lord, You are Purushottam Narayan, the Supreme Incarnation and the cause of all incarnations. You are ever free from vice. Who am I to bestow a boon upon you? It is through your service, blessings and favour that infinite jivas (souls) acquire fame. I am only a humble servant of yours, always at your service, anxious to carry out your commands. You undertook such severe penance so that the people on the earth may learn renunciation, detachment and austere living like yours.

It is by your wish that the universe functions. It is by your desire that it rains, that the sun and the moon rise and set. It is only through your grace that corn grows and fruits ripen.

You are the Master of all. Therefore, Oh Lord, it is my good fortune that you have kindly remembered me. Please do remember me whenever my services are required. I will always be at your service." So saying Suryanarayan disappeared.

Resuming his journey, Nilakanth took a bath in Gandki-Ganga and scattered tulsi leaves on it. There upon, a Shaligram came out of the water. Nilakanth told him, "Oh Vishnu Narayan! You will also be worshipped in future along with the paramhansas."

Passing through Pokhara, Nilakanth reached Butolnagar. King Mahadatta was the controller of this place. His queen's name was Mayadevi. His whole family was religious and aspired salvation. The king's family served Nilakanth with great devotion and won

His favour. By His divine powers Nilakanth drew unto Himself many siddhas. Then proceeding stealthily from there, he entered Nepal. Thence walking ahead he saw Tibet from a distance and took the path to the forest.

9. MEETING WITH GOPAL YOGI

For nearly a year, Nilakanth walked on his own in the Himalayan forests. Careless of the cold, heat, rain, hunger, thirst or fierce animals, he walked on. It so happened, one evening he came to a banyan treee. On it were some birds’ nests.

An old rishi was sitting on his mrigcharma. He was engrossed in meditation. One of his hands rested on a pavanapavadi and the other on his knee. He was sitting in the swastik (cross-legged) posture. Automatically his eyes opened and his attention was drawn towards Nilakanth. He indicated by a gesture to Nilakanth to approach him.

Nilakanth went and bowed to him and asked, "Oh rishi! What is your name? You seem to be versed in the science of yoga. Will you be kind enough to please teach me yoga?"

Hearing such sweet language the rishi replied, "My name is Gopal Yogi. My mind has never been drawn to anyone so far, and my eyes have never opened while in meditation.

But today as soon as you came near this tree, my eyes opened up. My mind and eyes were enticed by you. Therefore, Oh Bal Yogi! Who are you? I have attained perfection in ashtanga (eight-fold) yoga. I shall certainly teach you yoga but please tell me who you are."

Nilakanth replied, "I am beyond Atma, Akshar or Brahman. But from the worldly perspective, I am the son of a Brahmin. Since I left my home, I have been touring through forests for three years. I have performed severe penance for four months. I aspire to accomplish ashtanga yoga. Please call me by the name of Nilakanthvarni. Please accept me as your disciple and teach me yoga."

Gopal Yogi was extremely pleased to hear this reply. He kept Nilakanth with him. He taught him yoga every morning and evening. Gradually Nilakanth accomplished the science of ashtanga yoga, (viz. yam, niyam, asan, pratyahar, pranayam, dharana, dhyana and samadhi.) He also attained the astha-siddhis. He also learnt various yogic exercises like kunjar, dhoti, neti and basti. Besides, he mastered the various teachings (viz. brahmavidya, akshividya, daharvidya etc.) He spent a year with Gopal Yogi. He mastered the theory and practice of yoga in a year which other yogis could not accomplish in their whole lifetime.

Nilakanth also served Gopal Yogi with devotion. As Gopal Yogi taught Yoga to Nilakanth, Nilakanth in turn imparted him with the knowledge of his own swarup (self).

He gave him Brahmajnana (knowledge of Brahman). He gave Gopal Yogi the darshan of Lord Narayan in His own swarup (self) and redeemed his soul. After performing the crematory rites of Gopal Yogi, Nilakanth resumed his journey. He came to Adivaraha, a

centre of pilgrimage. This place is situated on the bank of the Koshi River on the top of Dhavalgiri in Nepal and is known as Varahakshetra. After having the darshan of the image of God Varaha in the temple there, Nilakanth entered Bengal and arrived in the city of Sirpur.

10. PIBEK AND HIS DEFEAT

Nilakanth went to Kamakshi from Sirpur. The town was situated with a big Kamakshi temple. In a small village at a short distance from this town there lived a Brahmin named Pibek. This Brahmin was very virtuous in his early days. But once he came into contact with a bad bawa. He began to eat meat, fish and began to drink bhang (an intoxicating concoction) and liquor. He became a devotee of Devi (goddess). He used to meditate for the appeasement of ghosts and bhairav. He would go to the cremation ground at night to learn black magic. He began to use bad, abusive language and frightened the people. He harassed them by practicing hocus-pocus; he would offer them spelled threads to wear.

He used to threaten and intimidate all the people. He extorted money from everybody. He forced sadhus, jogis and jatis to forsake their religious sect by breaking their kanthis and forcefully made them his disciples. Then as he himself had learnt, he taught them devilry and worship of bhairavas and bhootas.

Nilakanth went and lodged in a garden outside the village. Some siddha yogis had also been camping in the same garden. In the evening Pibek heard the news about many yogis in the village. Outraged with madness, he went straight to the garden where he saw many siddha yogis sitting there. Enlarging his blood-shot eyeballs, he rushed towards the yogis.

On seeing Pibek the siddha yogis began to tremble. They were all mortally afraid of him. Pibek approached them and threatened them by saying, "Break your kanthis, erase your tilak marks on your foreheads. No religion other than mine will be allowed to be observed in this village. All of you shall become my disciples. If you do not act according to my commands, I shall at once kill you all.� To show you a miracle of mine he threw a charmed grain on the ground, whereupon clouds of smoke burst out of the ground.

Bhootas and bhairavas became visible in the smoke. On seeing them the yogis were frightened. They put their hands on their necks in an attempt to break their kanthis.

Meanwhile sitting under a tree, a short distance away, Nilakanth was observing all this. He thought, "I am afraid of all these learned yogis. They will break their Vaishnavi kanthis out of sheer fright and become irreligious." Nilkanth rushed to the yogis and informed them, "Do not delete your tilak marks and do not break your Vaishnavi kanthis.

It would be sinful if you break the Vaishnavi kanthis of tulsi beads. Do not be afraid of this Brahmin at all. What is he going to do to you?" Hearing this the yogis replied, "He does not look like an ordinary Brahmin. He knows all sorts of devilish crafts. He will surely inflict harm on us."

Nilakanth asked, "What is he going to do? If he has the real strength, let him try his devilry first on me. Let him first hurt and injury me and force me to break my kanthi.

Thereafter he may frighten you.� Saying so Nilakanth went near Pibek and sat on a stone slab in front of him.

Nilakanth then challenged Pibek, "If you have the strength, come and try all your devilry on me first. Show me your miraculous power and make me your disciple. Then only these innocent siddhas will become your disciples." On hearing this Pibek threatened, "You are a small child in fornt of me. Don't be so egotistical. Great yogis, siddhas, sadhus and kings have become my disciples. All accept my greatness, render services to me and act according to my orders. Therefore if you have any sense then I suggest you become my disciple; otherwise I will demonstrate my prowess."

Undaunted by this threat, Nilakanth repeated his challenge, "Do what you can to me.

Here I am sitting in front of you. I will not become your disciple." So saying Nilakanth sat crosslegged in front of Pibek. Behind him all the siddhas sat down. In order to frighten Nilakanth, Pibek muttered some mantras and threw a handful of grains on the tree. The huge green banyan tree soon died out. Nilakanth began to laugh at this and in a derisive tone exclaimed, "It's nothing."

Enraged at this, Pibek said, "Just wait and see this. I shall now show you my real powers. I shall cast handful of grains with such powerful mantra that the ghosts will come and pull out your matted hair, break your kanthi and knock you down and beat you to death." So saying he again muttered his mantras and forcefully threw grains on the ground far away. Clouds of smoke arise from that spot. Many ghosts emerged from the clouds of smoke, moved towards Nilakanth and stood at a short distance away from him.

Pibek muttered many mantras, but the ghosts did not move any further towards Nilakanth. On the contrary, they all began to beat Pibek instead.

Pibek's anger knew no bounds. Again he muttered the mantras and threw the grains towards the sky, and threatening once again, "Look, child! Bhairav will kill you with only one stroke." And, indeed in a moment the black dreadful Bhairav rushed towards Nilakanth, but on seeing Nilakanth he at once receded and began to strike Pibek with his trishula (trident). Pibek began to vomit blood and fell down unconscious.

On seeing this some of Pibek's disciples and relatives prayed to Nilakanth, "Oh Hari!

He has committed a mistake out of arrogance. Please pardon him." Nilakanth felt pity for them. He looked at Pibek, whereupon Pibek regained his conscious. Threatening with his big bloodshot eyes, he said, "Now I am sending the veers (evil spirits) of Mahakali and Maruti (Hanumanji) to you. They will destroy you in no time." So saying he again muttered his mantras and threw the grains on Nilakanth.

Mahakali's and Hanuman's veers came, saw Nilakanth, bowed to him and jumped on Pibek. They rebuked him, "You fool, why do you ask us to fight with the Supreme God?

We shall kill you today." So saying, they gave a sound beating to Pibek. Blood began to trickle from his nose and mouth. He fell down unconscious with the thud of a big tree.

After a while Pibek woke up. His whole body was aching. He could not even speak.

The bones and ribs of his body had become weak. There was no question of his being able to stand up. Dragging himself on the ground, he came to Nilakanth, touched his feet and said, "Please forgive me, Oh Lord ! Out of my arrogance, I insulted You. You are God Almighty, Master of all, omnipotent and yet I harassed You! I have harassed many yogis, sadhus and saints. Please pardon me."

Nilakanth explained, "I shall pardon you, if you promise to forsake your dirty devilry; otherwise you will have to go to hell and suffer endless torture there. Pibek relented, "Yes, Oh Lord! I give up all that from this day. From now on I shall never indulge in any hocuspocus, mantras, ghosts and bhairav or any dirty devilry. I shall obey your orders. Please forgive me. Protect me from the veers of Mahakali and Hanuman who are standing there, otherwise they will kill me today."

Nilakanth looked at them. At once the veers of Mahakali and Hanuman disappeared.

Nilakanth then helped Pibek to get up. He initiated him into the Vaishnav fold and made him a devotee of Shri Krishna. His disciples were also initiated in the Vaishnav fold and were admitted as the devotees of Shri Krishna. He asked them all to wear the kanthi of tulsi and put on the tilak mark on their foreheads. Thus blessing them all and uplifting them from their sacrilegious activities, Nilakanth resumed his journey.

11. THE NINE LAKH YOGIS

Proceeding from Kamakshi, Nilakanth approached the Navlakha Mountain. Nine lakh yogis were living on the mountain. They were all siddha yogis and and been performing penance there for thousands of years. Every morning they performed sacrifices, took their baths and performed sandhya (prayers offered at dawn and dusk). Each one of them had a separate kund (water-cistern) to bathe in and Yajnakund (sacrificial alter) for performing sacrifice. Thus there were nine lakh small water cisterns and nine lakh saccrificial alters.

Day and night the siddhas remained engrossed in prayers to God. They were emaciated and the veins of their bodies were visible. They had thick, matted hair on their heads and long beards white as cottonwool.

One morning, when all the siddhas were seated in meditation, a divine voice was heard from the sky. In a sweet tone it said, "Purushottam Narayan, for whose darshan you have been performing penance for years, will Himself come and give you His darshan. He is manifest now on earth. He will Himself give His darshan to you and redeem you all."

On hearing the words of this divine voice, the siddhas were exhilarated. They all felt happy. Peace pervaded their hearts. They thought, "If we experience such peace from the mere words of the divine voice, how much more peace will we experience by the darshan

of the Lord in person?" All the siddhas started preparations for the reception of Nilakanth.

Some began to collect fruits for Him, while some began to weave garlands of flowers for the Lord.

Continuing his tour, Nilakanth arrived at the foot of the Navalakha Mountain. After all he decided to climb the mountain. Again the divine voice was heard, "Tomorrow at dawn you will all have the darshan of Lord Purushottam Narayan in the form of Nilakanth. By His darshan alone you will all attain redemption, and reach Akshardham (the abode of Lord Purushottam)."

Nilakanthvarni reached the top of the mountain at dawn. The yogis experienced immense joy at his darshan. They all honoured him, gave him a warm welcome by placing the flower garlands round his neck. The deities showered flowers from the sky. The whole atmosphere was sanctified by chanting the Vedic verses. A cool gentle breeze was blowing.

Nilakanth assumed nine lakh forms and embraced each one of the nine-lakh yogis by his separate swarup (form or image). He offered oblations in every sacrificial alter. He drank water from every cistern and rendered the water consecrated. The nine lakh yogis kept Nilakanth with them for three days and pleased him by their service. They sang praises of Nilakanth through the very core of their hearts.

They all prayed, "Oh Lord Nilakanth! Since you have given us Your darshan, kindly be merciful and reside permanently in our hearts. It is our humble request." On hearing this prayer Nilakanth said, "So be it." Then the yogis bade Him farewell with heavy hearts.

Nilakanth walked on. On the way he came to Balvakund.

Flames of fire eternally come out from the waters of this kund (springs) and from the stones nearby. After visiting this place, sanctifying the birthplace of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu at Nav-dweep and visiting Shantipur, the seat of the Gaudiya sect (sampradaya), Nilakanth reached Gangasagar, the confluence of the Ganges and the sea.

12. UNPURE WATER IS NOT DRINKABLE

After a long walk through the forest, Nilakanth felt tired and thirsty. The saw a farm short distances away. A farmer was operating his kosh (a mechanism to draw water from the well with leather buckets) drawn by two bullocks. The water, which was drawn from the well, was poured into a kund (closet). Nilakanth entered the farm and asked the farmer, "Kind hearted sir, will you give me some water to drink? I am very thirsty." The farmer replied, "At the moment my kosh is operating. Drink as much water as you like from the closet."

Nilakanth went near the closet. The bullocks walked away from the well. Water came up in leather buckets and was emptied into the closet. But Nilakanth stood still and did

not drink the water. He saw that the kosh had leather buckets attached to it. Water carried in a leather bucket should not be drunk.

Nilakanth politely told the farmer, "Brother, this is charmavari (leather touched water). This water is drawn by leather buckets. I cannot drink it. Do you have a pot and a string? If you have, please give them to me. I shall draw the water out of the well myself and drink it."

The farmer replied, "How can there be a pot and a string here? Everyone here drinks the water drawn by this kosh. Nobody is upset about drinking that water. You may drink the water from the closet if you like. We do not keep any pot or a string here. If you are so fastidious about observing a rule of religious conduct, why don't you carry a pot and string with you?"

On hearing this Nilakanth told the farmer, "I do not need your pot or string. I can draw water out of the well with my hands." With these words Nilakanth went near the well, He held on to the edge of the well and lowered the other to get water. Immediately the water in the well began to increase and reached up to the brim. Nilakanth filled the gourd with water, filtered it and drank it to his satisfaction.

The farmer and his labourers were amazed to see this phenomenon. They thought, "Surely this is God, otherwise how can the water level rise automatically in the well which is twenty feet deep?" The farmer and his labourers fell at the feet of Nilakanth. They became satsangis after due initiation. They also started drinking filtered water from that day on.

Thereafter Nilakanth resumed his journey to Bhuvaneshwar and reached that city the next day. There he had the darshan of Bhuvaneshwar Mahadev. In this city there were many other beautiful temples of God Shiva. Nilakanth had the darshan at each of these temples. He sanctified each of them. He also purified many of mumukshus (aspirants for salvation) by his very darshan. He stayed at Bhuvaneshwar for three days.

From Bhuvaneshwar, Nilakanth went to Sakshi Gopal. Here there is a temple of Gopalji. It is believed that a person who is undertaking a pilgrimage to Jagannathpuri can get his or her fruit of rewards only on completing a pilgrimage to Sakshi Gopal. After a stay for two days here, Nilakanth proceeded southwards.

13. IN SEARCH FOR NILAKANTH

It was early morning. The day had not yet dawned. The crowing of the cock was not heard. The dark skys had not yet disappeared. Nilakanth woke up, and thought, "I have been staying here for many days. I have yet to redeem lakhs of people." He looked around.

Everybody was fast asleep. Gently he took up his kamandal (gourd) and went to the door.

The door opened automatically. Nilakanth left the house of Jairamdas and walked away.

The day dawned. The rooster was heard. Soft rays of the sun appeared in the sky.

Jairam's mother got up. She noticed that Nilakanth was not therer. She thought he might have perhaps gone for a bath. She sent someone in search of him at the lake, but Nilakanth was not to be found. Jairam and his father went round every street of the village. They searched for him at all possible places, at the chora, in the bazaar, in the forest, in the garden but they could not find him. Jairam's parents became so grief stricken that they did not eat anything. The whole village wore an unhappy appearance. Everyone wondered if they had done anything wrong. Why did he leave us weeping and full of sorry?"

Jairam's mother felt extremely uneasy. She asked Jairam to get ready. She gave him some eatables and money for the journey and said, "Go and search for Nilakanth in every village and every forest. Bring Nilakanth back from wherever he is. Beg for his pardon if we have committed any mistake, but bring him back at any cost. He is our God. He is Shri Krishna incarnate." Jairamdas left in search of Nilakanth.

14. KIND HEARTED NILAKANTH

Nilakanth had reached the shore of Lake Indradyumna in Janakpur. On the outskirts there was a matha (monastery) inhabited by naked bawas. A thousand bawas lived there.

They were all naked, absolutely crude and ill mannered. Nilakanth stayed there for a night. In the morning he took a bath, performed his daily prayers and then sat on a side with a mala (rosary).

The bawas had to cook their food. Plenty of leafy vegetables grew in their garden. One of the bawas ordered Nilakanth, "You little boy, bring some green leafy vegetables from the garden. Bring only the tender ones, not with big leaves."

The bawa had asked Nilakanth to pluck tandalja (spinach), but Nilakanth did not do it. The bawa scolded Nilakanth and repeated his order, "Go, pluck the green tandalja, I say." Nilakanth, however, calmly replied, "Since it has life in it, I won't pluck it." On hearing this a bawa got angry and shouted, "Why don't you obey the order of our head?

Go and pluck the vegetables at once." So saying, he took out his sword and began to frighten Nilakanth. But Nilakanth was unmoved. The bawa, therefore, rushed towards Nilakanth with his sword.

Nilakanth cast a glance at the other bawas. Some of them tried to prevent him. They said, "Why are you intimidating this young celibate? Why don't you pluck the vegetables yourself?" Thus, the bawas became angry with them, and a quarrel rose amongst the bawas. They split up in two groupes. They began to fight against each other. Driven by anger, all of them fought fiercely and many were killed. Then Nilakanth left that place and went for Jagannathpuri.

15. NILAKANTH IN JAGANNATHPURI

When Nilakanth reached the outskirts of Jagannathpuri he heard someone calling, "Oh Nilakanthvarni.� Nilakanth turned back to see who was calling him. It was Jairamdas. He came running and panting and shouting. Seeing Jairam, Nilakanth stopped. Jairamdas came running and fell at the feet of Nilakanth. He begs Nilakanth, "Oh Lord! Please forgive us of our faults. Oh kind hearted one, please pardon our mistakes. Come back to our house. I shall not allow you to proceed any further. My parents are very unhappey.

They do not eat or drink. They cry all day long. The whole village is sad. My sisters and Krishna Tamboli have become almost insane. Please hurry up, and return to my house. I shall not leave you alone." Nilakanth calmed him and gave him a lot of advice. It was only then that Jairam became silent.

Nilakanth and Jairam entered the city of Jagannathpuri. This city is a very holy place of pilgrimage. A big temple has been built there on the sacred ashes of Shri Krishna.

Thousands of pilgrims crowded this place for darshan daily. There was, however, much trouble from the asuras (devils). A large band of naked bawas lived there. They were very cruel and merciless. Even the priest of the temple was deceptive. He used to steal the ornaments and vessels of the deity and sell them. He did not strictly observe the norms of purity by taking ceremonial baths. He extorted money from the devotees in the name of the worship of the deity. Nilakanthvarni entered the image of Lord Jagannathji daily by his divine powers and observed the devotion and deceit of the priest.

One day he rebuked the priest and ordered him to perform the services of the deity devoutly. He narrated to him all his secret deceitful deeds. The priest was amazed to hear this. He thought, "Nilakanth is surely the incarnation of Shri Krishna." He apologized to him. Nilakanth forgave him for his sins. The priest then became a true devotee, and began to perform the worship of the deity with devotion and without deceit.

16. DESTRUCTION OF THE ASURAS

Since then the priest of the Jagannath temple looked after Nilakanth with great care.

Jairamdas was also in the service of Nilakanth. Everyday the priest served Nilakanth with the thal (plate of the prasad) of the deity. Nilakanth used to take bath in the sea every morning. After the bath he would sit in meditation near the pillar in the main hall of the temple. In the evening he used to go to Chandra-sarovar and perform yogic exercises.

The king of Jagannathpuri was very devout. Nilakanth stayed in the king's garden in the gardeners house. The gardener used to weave garlands of flowers every morning and evening and place them round the neck of Nilakanth. He also offered him fresh fruits and edible roots. On hearing the greatness of Nilakanth, the king went to the garden for the darshan of Nilakanth. The darshan of Nilakanth restored peace to the king. Thereafter, accompanied by his queen, he used to go everyday to receive the sermons of Nilakanth.

One day Nilakanth described to them the importance of worshipping Vishnu and

Shaligram. The king expressed his desire to get a Shaligram. He talked to the gardener about it and he said, "The mahant of the bawas outside the garden has thousands of Shaligram with him.. We can get one from him."

Thereon the king sent his minister to bring a shaligram from the mahant. The mahant drove him out saying, "I won't give you a single Shaligram." The minister returned empty handed and told the whole story to the king. The king became very angry. He decided to punish the bawas the next day.

At night the bawas surrounded by fire, became intoxicated after drinking bhang (hemp). Nilakanth was pained to see this. He cast an angry look at the mahant.

Immediately all the Shaligrams of the mahant flew and fell in the river. On seeing this, the mahant became angry with Nilakanth, and ran towards the garden with a trident in his hand. The whole group of the bawas followed him. All of them rushed to beat Nilakanth.

The gardener got frightened on seeing this. He ran to the king and related to him the whole story. The king at once sent an army of a thousand soldiers. The army slaughtered all the bawas. The army thus saved Nilakanth and took him to the palace of the king with all the fanfare. The king, served him in his palace for three days. The king, duly initiated, became a satsangi (a member of the fellowship).

In Jagannathpuri, Nilakanth participated in the Rathayatra (chariot procession). The king seated Nilakanth in the chariot and gave him a warm reception. In the chariot procession, Nilakanth gave darshan to the king in the form of Jagannathji.

After staying in Jagannathpuri for six months and six days and exterminated the asuras (devils) Nilakanth resumed his journey. On the way he persuaded Jairamdas to become a sadhu (ascetic), but Jairamdas refused. On the contrary he insistently said, "Please come back to my house. My parents are awaiting you!" At last Nilakanth pacified him and sent him back home. At the time of parting Nilakanth said, "Remember me and pray to me whenever you are in trouble. When you want to become a sadhu come searching for me to Kathiawaad. I shall meet you there." Jairam fell at the feet of Nilakanth and with a heavy heart left for his journey back homewards.

Nilakanth proceeded to walk ahead. On the way he came to a big river. He crossed it to reach the Tilang region in the south. There he had the darshan of God Vishnu known as Adikurma. Proceeding from there further in the south, he arrived at Pannahnrusinha.

After having the darshan of the metalfaced idol of God Nrusinha of the mountain, he arrived at Manaspur. After instated the King Sattadharma of Manaspur a disciple, Nilakanth left for Venkatadri on the way to Rameshwar.

17. UNGRATEFUL SEVAKRAM

On his way to Rameshwar, Nilakanth met a sadhu. His name was Sevakram. He had studied Bhagwat and was skilled in Sanskrit, but he was cunning and ungrateful but by

nature. He had a thousand sonamohars (gold coins) with him, but had no one to serve him. Once he fell ill. He was suffering from acute dysentery. He had frequent motions, and blood passed with the motions. It was very painful. He could not even walk and was, therefore, embarassed. Nilakanth consoled him and said, "Don't worry, I shall serve you."

Nilakanth prepared a bed of banana leaves for Sevakram. He washed his dirty clothes, prepared and served him meal twice a day. Gradually, after few days, Sevakram recovered from his illness. Everyday Nilakanth cooked food for him and fed him. He would go to the neighbouring village to beg alms for him-self and ate whatever he received. Some times he would have to go withiout food. Some times he had to fast for two days, but Sevakram would not give him a dime. He did not even have the courtesy to ask him to dine with him.

After a few days both Nilakanth and Sevakram proceeded further. On the way Sevakram placed his burden weighing about a maund on Nilakanth's head. Nilakanth himself had no luggage; still he carried Sevakram's kit. Sevakram was now so well that he could now drink and digest more than a pound of ghee (clarified butter) every day. He merely made him work for him like a slave.

Realizing the ungrategulness of Sevakram, Nilakanth abandoned him. One who does not appreciate a favour or a good turn is an ungrateful wretch. One who merely exploits his servant and does not take care of his food and clothing is an ungrateful person. An ungrateful person is considered to be a great sinner. Sevakram was such an ungrateful person. Therefore Nilakanth left his company.

On the way he passed through Venkatadri and arrived at Tirumalla's mountain of Tirupatti Balaji. Having the darshan of the idol of God Venkateshwar at this historic place of Tirupatti, Nilakanth soon reached Shivakanchi. Here there is a temple of God Ekamreshwar. It is an old temple with a magnificent gopuram (entrance tower). At a short distance from there is the holy place of Vishnukanchi. Nilakanth had the darshan of the idol of God Varadraj (Narayan) here. He then started for Bhootpuri.

18. NILAKANTH IN BHOOTPURI

Bhootpuri is the birth place of Shrimad Ramanuj Acharya. When Nilakanth reached there, a leading sanyasi (saint) named Jear Swami occupied the gadi (seat of the religious head of a sect) of Ramanuj Acharya. Nilakanthvarni stayed with him for some time. He listened to the texts of the Ramanuj Sampradaya (religious sect). He studied the essence of its philosophy and liked their upasana (way of worship). The philosophy and the sampradaya of Ramanuj Acharya appeared to him to be simpler and better in comparison with other sects. Nilakanth therefore stayed there for few months.

Once Nilakanth asked Jear Swami, "Realizing that you are a tyagi, I venture to ask you a question. What should we understand from the injunction given in the scriptures that a

tyagi should abjure women and wealth? Women, wealth and taste these three are considered the biggest constraints for a tyagi. They captivate even Brahma and others.

Therefore please explain the course which a tyagi should adopt."

Jear Swami did not observe any restraint in speaking to or touching women. Besides, his conduct was to some extent sensual. Hence he got annoyed and shouted, "Is anybody here? Drive this boy out. He ventures to discuss the conduct of a tyagi. He is a mere child.

Drive him out from here. I shall not eat and drink till then. I don't want such disciples."

Nilakanth said, "Oh preceptor, it is not suitable for a preceptor or a disciple to fret and fume with anger like this. Just as a small fire can reduce a palace to ashes, so can a little anger can spoil salvation."

Jear Swami got even more angry on hearing these words. He dismissed Nilakanth from the monastery. Nilakanth passed the night at a place opposite the monastery.

The next day he left Bhootpuri and passed through Chingalpet. On the way he crossed the river Kaveri. After taking a bath in the river, he entered Kumbhakon. A Kumbha mela (a religious fair) is held at this place every twelve years. Having the darshan of Kumbheshwar Mahadev here, Nilakanth took a bath in the lake. He gave darshan to one and all in the kumbha Mela.

He reached Shrirangkshetra from there. After taking a bath in the Kaveriganga, he entered the great temple of Shriranga. It was at this place that Ramanand Swami was given the Vaishnavi Diksha (initiation to the Vaishnav fold) in dream by Shrimad Ramanuj Acharya. In this great temple of Shriranga there is a large, black chatur-bhuja (four-armed) idol of God Shriranga reclining on Sheshshayya (the bed of serpent shesha). Nilakanth had the darshan of the idol of Ramanuj in this temple.

From there Nilakanth went to Mannargudi. People call it Ayodhya of the south or Dwarika of the south. There is an old temple of God Rajgopal. Having had the darshan of Rajgopal, Nilakanth proceeded on the way to Devipattan.

19. SHIV PARVATI COME FOR THE DARSHAN OF NILAKANTH

There are many hills and forests on the way to Totadri. Nilakanth continued to walk not only for one or two days, but for continually for five days; yet he could neither get food to eat nor water to drink on the way. It was on the sixth day that he approached a well near a banyan tree. There Nilakanth took a bath with the water from the well and performed his daily rituals. Then he placed his Shaligram in a vessel and began to bathe the Shaligram with the water from the gourd. He poured water on the Shaligram. A miracle happened! The Shaligram drank away all the water. Nilakanth then poured another gourdful of water on it, but the Shaligram drank away that too. He continued to

pour more gourdful of water on it for the third, fourth and the fifth time and the Shaligram drank it all. Nilakanth thought, "Since the Shaligram is this much thirsty, it must be hungry as well. But where do I go to to get food?"

As he was thinking, Shiv and Parvati came there in the guise of a couple (mendicants) sitting on a bull. They gave salt and sathavo (a preparation made of flour) to Nilakanth to eat. Nilakanth offered it to the Shaligram and then ate it. After finishing the meals, Nilakanth asked the couple, "Who are you?" Then Shivji replied, "I am Bholanath Shankar and this is Parvati."

Nilakanth then asked, "Oh Sati Parvati, how is it that you have come here?" Parvati replied, "Listen, Oh Lord, after your appearance on the earth, Bhaktimata once took you to Narayan Lake for bathing you. At that time Shivji too went along with Brahma and Vishnu to have your darshan, but he forgot to take me along with him. Thus he had the privilege of your darshan, and I was deprived of it. According to the rule laid down by the shastras (scriptures) the wife should invariably accompany the husband on all auspicious occasions, such as giving donations, observing vratas (austerity or religious vows), performing sacrifices, visiting holy places, proceeding on a pilgrimage and going for the darshan of God. But in the hurry to have your darshan, he forgot to take me with him. So I told him, "Do not forget me the next time you go.� Since then I had been requesting him to take me for your darshan. On seeing you alone today, we have come to seek your blessings." Then Shiv and Parvati bowed to Nilakanth, received His blessings and disappeared in the sky.

After accepting the service of Shiv and Parvati, Nilakanth reached Totadri the next day. This is the main centre of the gadi (seat) of Ramanuj Acharya. In the temple there is an idol of God Vishnu reclining under the hood of Shesha. After having the darshan of this and the darshan of Lambe-narayan and Chhote-narayan in nearby holy places next day, and thence Nilakanth reached Kanyakumari in the south. This place is also known as Kumarika-kshetra. The sea of Bengal and the Arabian Sea unite at this place. Taking a bath at this confluence of two seas, Nilakanth turned back towards the north.

20. TOWARDS THE NORTH FROM KANYAKUMARI

Crossing the Krutamala River on the way, Nilakanth arrived in Padmanabha (Trivandrum). In a temple here he had the darshan of the idol of God Padmanabha reclining on Sheshashayya (the bed of a serpent) along with Brahma seated in a lotus coming out of the navel.

Walking northwards from there, Nilakanth arrived in the holy place of Janardan. It is situated near the sea, and yet it abounds in fresh water springs. Here there is a big temple of God Janardan. After his darshan, Nilakanth reached Adikeshav. Here he had the darshan of the idol of God Adikeshav in a temple standing on the bank of the river Tamravarni.

After walking further northwards for few more days, Nilakanth reached Shreerangapattam, where he had the darshan of Shriranga. Then he went to Yadavgiri (Melukote). A temple of Sampatkumar is located here which Ramanuj Acharya had renovated. After having the darshan of the image of Lord Narayan in that temple, Nilakanth proceeded further to the north.

On the way he bathed in the Kalyaniganga River. There he had the darshan in the temple of Swami Kartikeya on the hill known as Parvatgiri. Coming down from the hill, Nilakanth entered the region of Kishkindha. There he took a bath in the Tungbhadra River and then visited the holy place of Sphatikshila situated on the Malyavan Mountain. A temple is built inside a cave at this place with idols of Rama, Laxman and Janaki.

Nilakanth had their darshan devoutly. Coming down, he reached Rushyamuk Mountain.

This place is known as Chakartirth of the south. The river Tungbhadra here curves like a bow. That is way it is known as Chakartirth. The river is very deep. Nilakanth took a bath in it and had darshan in the Shri Ram Temple on the mountain.

Nilakanth corssed the Tungabhadra river and arrived at Pampasar. There are the temples of Shrirangaji and Laxminarayan on the hills near the Pampa sarovar. Nilakanth had the darshan of those deities. He sanctified Kishkindha city by his visit and after passing through the Shabari forest, entered Maharashtra.

Tracking through Maharashtra, Nilakanth arrived at Pandharpur. He stayed there for two months on the bank of the Chandrabhaga River. There he did the darshan of Vithoba.

From Pandharpur he went to Poona City in the year Samvat 1855. At that time Bapu Gokhale, the diwan (minister) of the king, was in charge of the administration of the city.

He was very devout. He sincerely served Nilakanth and became his disciple. Nilakanth spent the month of Ashadh there.

In the beginning of the month of Sharavan, Nilakanth took the path to the Vindhyachal Mountains. After few days he reached the confluence of the rivers Tapi and Mauna. He took a bath here and reached Buranpur on the other side of the confluence.

Proceeding from there, he reached Malegam. He stayed in a Shiv temple for five days. He took a bath in the Mosamganga. Proceeding further from there he passed through the Dandkaranya forest and arrived at Nasik. After a bath in the Godavari River, he had the darshan of Tryambakeshwar Mahadev. Then Nilakanth proceeded to Gujarat.

21. NILAKANTH IN GUJARAT

After walking for five days, Nilakanth passed by Dharampur in Gujarat and reached Suryapur (Surat). For three days he did not get any food. On the fourth day a gardener's wife gave him some food provisions, which he cooked and ate. He then went to Ashwinkumar Ghat (a pier on the bank of Tapi). The Tapi River was very deep here.

People dissuaded Nilakanth; but he plunged into the river and swam across to the other bank. From there he went ahead and after some time reached Bharuch and stayed there for the night at the Ashvamegh Ghat on the bank Narmada river. Then after passing through the village of Pimpaliya, he reached Tavara. There he had darshan in the Kapileshwar temple and took bath in the Narmada and then came to the Bawapyara Ghat in Shukaltirth.

From Shukaltirth, Nilakanth went to Ambali and Anasuya. There is a temple of Goddess Ansuya here. Rajbai, the devout aspirant of Ambali, gave Nilakanth milk to drink and prayed, "Please stay here and accept my milk every day." Seeing her devotion, Nilakanth stayed for seven days in Ansuya. Everyday he used to bathe in the Narmada, and go to Ambali to drink milk at the house of Rajbai. Thereafter he proceeded to Vyastirth and Shukleshwar. Thus sanctifying various holy places of the saints on the banks of the Narmada, Nilakanth went ahead.

Walking along the bank of the Narmada, Nilakanth passed through Chandod and reached Karnali. He had the darshan in the old temples at this place. He then went to Dabhoi. There he stayed for the night in the temple of Vaghnath Mahadev. From there he passed through Vasai and arrived in Vatapattam (Vadodara or Baroda). He stayed there for the night at the Mandvi gate in the bazaar, gave darshan to many people and left the next day. On the way he took a bath in the Mahi River and reached the village Navli.

There he ate food offered by Laldas and blessed him. He said, "You will get a virtuous son (Kashiabhai)." From there he went to Bamangam. In this village he ate food consisting of a loaf and dal of matha (split of brown gram, a kind of pulse) at the house of a Brahmin, Khoda Pandya, blessed him, and went to Dakor via Anand.

After the darshan of Shri Ranchhodrai at Dakor, Nilakanth arrived at Umreth. He stayed there for the night in the temple of Jagannath Mahadev. Two Brahmins served him with fruits there. Blessing them, he proceeded to Vartal through Bhalej. Here Joban Pagi, taking Nilakanth to be a great sage, offered him food. Nilakanth cooked his food and ate it.

Joban Pagi urged him to halt there, but Nilakanth promised him to come back there on some other occasion, and proceeded to Bochasan.

22. NILAKANTH IN BOCHASAN

A devotee named Kondas Patel lived in Bochasan. While sleeping in his house, a voice was heard from the sky, "Wake up, Kandas! You are still asleep! The Supreme Lord has arrived in your village. He is staying in the bawas' place. Go at once, bow to Him, pray to Him and take Him to your house. Serve Him. Fortune will smile on you, and you will get ultimate deliverance. Be quick; otherwise the young celibate will go away soon after taking bath."

Kandas got up rubbing his eyes. He washed his face and told his mother of what had happen. Thereupon the old woman said, "Hurry, and quickly bring the celibate here. I

have already cooked food to feed the Brahmins, but instead we shall feed our Lord. The Brahmins can wait." With these words, Kandas hurriedly ran towards the field. His mother, on her part, narrated the event to his wife Naanibai, who in turn related it to her son, Kashidas. In a short while the news spread throughout the village like a whirl-wind.

Thus a number of villagers gathered at the bawas' place.

After having the darshan of Nilakanth, their minds became calm. Brighter light, that of hundreds of suns emanated from the body of Nilakanth. The eyes of all the people were dazzled. After some time, Nilakanth withdrew all the light in his body. People slowly went near Nilakanth and fell at his feet. Then Kashidas, the son of Kandas Patel stood up and prayed to Nilakanth, "Oh Lord, Oh young celibate! In order to fulfil the desire that I and my mother cherish please do visit our home. Please bless our village by your advent and fulfil the desire of all the devotees of my village."

Upon the request of all, Nilakanth went to the house of Kandas Patel in Bochasan. The old mother of Kandas was greatly pleased to see Nilakanthvarni. She invited Brahmins to offer religious service to Nilakanth. Then all the Brahmins sat down in a row for the banquet. Nilakanth was offered a wooden seat in the room inside for dinner. His old mother served sweet-balls in the plate of Nilakanth. In order to fulfil her, Nilakanth took a little piece of the sweet-ball and ate it. Then he simply sat on the dining seat without eating anything else. After a while the mother's attention was drawn to the plate of Nilakanth; whereupon she asked, "Why are you not eating my Lord?"

Then Nilakanth replied, "I cannot eat such heavy food. Bring some milk if you have. I will eat milk and rice.� Kandas got worried, "Where can I get milk from at this time? If it were the evening time, the buffalo would yield milk; but how can it give milk at this odd hour?" But Naanibai, the wife of Kashidas, had implicit faith in the words of Nilakanth; so she took a pot and went near the buffalo. To there surprise, milk was dripping from the udders of the buffalo, which voluntarity let down milk. The mother milked the buffalo until the pot was full with milk.

Then re-entering the house, the mother served Nilakanth with milk, rice and sugar.

Nilakanth ate to his heart's content. He then cleaned his mouth and stood up. The old mother requested, "Maharaj, please stay at our house now." But Nilakanth replied, "I have still much work to do. Your entire family will be devout and will render service to me. You will have my darshan in Vartal after ten years." Thus blessing them Nilakanth left the place early next morning.

23. ENTRY INTO KATHIAWAD

From Bochasan, Nilakanth went to Dewan. He was welcomed very nicely in the court of King Bahadursinh. He gave the religious counsel to the king and his family, ate at his palace and went to Khambhat. He stayed at the place of Haridas. It was the day of fast. He took bath in the Naresar Lake and embraced the idol of Brahmaji in the temple.

He reached Budhej from there on the full-moon day of Falgun in Samvat 1855. Here he took a bath in a pond. Some unknown aspirant devoutly served Nilakanth with fresh food.

Nilakanth ate it delightfully, and went for sadavrat (alm-house) in the village. There a maidservant gave him jawar (millet). He ate five grains from it and threw the rest to the pigeons. From there he passed through Gorad on the way to Dholera. He arrived at Vadgam via Runi. He rested there under a banyan tree standing beside a pond. Nearby was a well called Kanji well from which he drank water. Then he went to the holy place of Dhanaka on the bank of creek where a fair was held. He gave darshan to thousands of people there and went to Ramsar pond in the north. There he drank water from a well and reached the bank of Shikotar. A man named Lakho Koli was catching fish there. Nilakanth preached ahimsa (non-violence) to him, and turned him to the righteous path. Thus after uplifting him, Nilakanth crossed the overflowing river during the night and reached Bhadiad. There he had milk and thuli (a wheat product) at the house of Govindram Vyas, and reached Dholera. He stayed there for a night in the temple of Khandeshwar Mahadev and left for Goras the next day. There he rested in the house of Sevagar Gosai, where he cooked and ate food consisting of a loaf and buttermilk. Then he went to Vagad and stayed there for the night at the house of Rana Bavalva, a potter. He gave him a bed to sleep on, but Nilakanth, as usual, slept on the floor.

Proceeding further, Nilakanth arrived at Bhimnath. He bathed in the Neelka River, had the darshan of Bhimnath Mahadev and ate the food received in alms. Then he went to Polarpur, where Jetha Banani gave him sukhadi (a sweetmeat) to eat. He ate it under a Khijda (a thorny shrub) on the bank of a pond. He drank water from the well and poured back the rest of the water into the well. From there he proceeded further and, passing through Barvala, Ghelasomnath and Vala, reached Shihor. He took a bath in the Gautamkund and had the darshan of Gautameshwar Mahadev. The priest of the temple served food to him. Nilakanth stayed there for the night and arrived at Bhavnagar the next day. He put up there in the dharmashala (religious house for travelers) of Devji. The bawaji of the place served him for three days and beged him to stay longer, but Nilakanth left the place and arrived at Kukad. The king Bhagwansinh and his administrator Jiva Thakkar devoutly offered food supplies to Nilakanth, which he cooked and ate. He thought them to be true aspirants, he gave them prasad and fulfilled their wishes. From there Nilakanth reached Dihor. He preached to some old men there who were chitchatting at the public square of the village. A Bhavsar lady and her son Mulji offered him food provisions and fed him with great devotion, and prayed for the remnant as prasad and received it.

He continued the journey and arrived at Lakadia. Here Khoja Premji Thakkar had a mat woven from fine grass. He had had determined for a long time to offer it to some great fakir (a religious saint) or jogi (saint). Nilakanth went to his shop and said, "You won't find a jogi like me in koti brahmands (innumerable universes). With these words, he consecrated his mat and smiling proceeded further. Then he went to Nana Gopnath. There he sprinkled water on the idol of Bholanath Shambhu (Shiv) and then reached Piparla.

Here a Brahmin's wife served him a fresh loaf fully besmeared with ghee. Seeing her devotion, Nilakanth opened the mandvo (upper layer of the loaf). The Brahmin's wife saw the brahmand (universe) in it, which brought an impact on her mind of Nilakanth being an incarnation of God. After eating the loaf, Nilakanth went to Talaja. There he bathed in the Shetrunji River and ate the food offered by Gaga Sheth. He then went to Gopnath. The priest of the Shiv temple asked Nilakanth to stay there for five days. He bathed there in salty water and then in fresh water, and then passing through Zanzarmer he arrived at Kalsar. At this place no one offered him food or shelter; so he slept in a barn. He then went to Mahuva via Katpar.

When Nilakanth was passing through the city of Mahuva after a bath in the Malan River, one Pitamber Sheth met him on the way. He offered him fruits to eat and received in turn his blessings. Even though being a Jain, Pitamber Sheth was initiated into the satsang (fellowship). Nilakanth stayed under a tamarind tree near the shrine of Hanumani in the Laxminarayan temple in this city. A bawa supplied food to Nilakanth the first day, a bania the second day, and bawa Fulvan the third day. Nilakanth took a bath on the bank or river Talgajarda and then sat in meditation. Thereafter he left for village Dolia. He dined here at the house of one Vithal Brahmin. Thereafter, passing through Patva, Chanchva and Dunger, he came to the place of Pipa, devotee in Pipavav. He ate food received in sadavrat (aims) and then went to Vaver village. He stayed there for two nights on the terrace of the Shiv temple. From there he passed through Rajula, stayed for the night near in a mosque in Vadgam and arrived at Rampar. This is the place where on the bank of Dhararvadi River, Atmandswami was cremated. He then went to Kovaiya. He stayed there for the night in the Adivarah temple on the sea-coast. (This sacred place of Kathiawad is also known as Adivarah). From there, after passing through Gangada and Samtej, he arrived at Sheemar. There he took bath in the Suryakund and stayed the night at an religious inn. A greedy bania offered him food in expectation of getting wealth.

Having blessed him, Nilakanth passed through Tulsishyam and arrived at Guptaprayag.

At this holy place of Kathiawad, Nilakanth halted under a rayan tree (a fruit-bearing tree). Every day he used to bathe in the kund (cistern) and deliver sermons to the pilgrims.

A Brahmin name Bhana Pathak used to feed him affectionately. One day, he asked Nilakanth, "Yatiraj, what is your name?� Nilakanth predicting the future, replied, "My name is Sahajanand." Brahmachari Nrusinhanand of the Seshashayi temple also offered food to Nilakanth. At his request, Nilakanth gave him a boon that the kund would remain full with water all year round. Nilakanth thought this to be a good place of pilgrimage and stayed there for a month and a half.

From Guptaprayag Nilakanth went to Una. There he bathed in a vav (shallow well) in the west of the village. Hansraj Sheth and Ganesh Sheth resided in this village. They rendered good service to Nilakanth. After blessing them, Nilakanth went to Dolah. There he stayed at the house of a shepherd. The shepherd offered him food, which Nilakanth declined to accept, but demanded cow's milk which he got and drank delightfully. A bawa

was the shepherd's guru (preceptor). Nilakanth gave him darshan as Lord Ramchandra.

Thus rescuing the bawa, the shepherd and his cow, Nilakanth went to Lodhva.

24. RAMANAND SWAMI

In Ayodhya there lived Saravariya Brahmin named Ajayprasad and his wife Sarmani.

On the Janmaashtami (the eighth day of the dark half of Shravan month) of Samvat 1795 she gave birth to a son, named Ramsharma. From the very childhood, Ramsharma was devoted to God. He was very intelligent. He studied at home till he was twelve years old.

Then he left home for further studies. Since then he never returned home. He travelled from one centre of pilgrimage to another and continued his search for a real guru. In the course of his tour he came to Talaja in Kathiawad.

Kashiram Shastri lived in Talaja. He was highly educated and learned. He possessed some religious books in Sanskrit. Ramsharma stayed at the house of Kashiram and studied many of those books. After finishing his studies, he set out on a pilgrimage to Dwarika.

There a sanyasi (ascetic) told him, "One Atmanand Swami lives in Tramba village at the foot of the Girnar mountain. He is a saint with great attainments and performs miracles."

So Ramsharma went to Tramba village in search of him.

Ramsharma went to Atmanand Swami and became his disciple. He accepted him as his guru. Atmanand Swami initiated him to his fold and gave him a new name Ramanand Swami. Everyday Atmanand Swami and Ramanand Swami both would discuss and debate everyday on different scriptures. Guru Atmanand Swami would say, "God is nirgun (beyond the qualities) and nirakar (impersonal). There can be no idol worship of God." But Ramanand would say, "God is sakar (personal). We must worship the idol of God and render service to Him." Ramanand Swami was a great devotee of Lord Shri Krishna. He ardently desired to have the darshan of Shri Krishna is person. So one day he left Atmanand Swami and left his place. During his tour Ramanand Swami went to south India. He reached Shreerang Kshetra, the place of the seat of Shri Ramanuj Acharya. Here he began the worship of Shri Krishna with Ramanuj's devotion. Lord Shri Krishna being pleased with his devotion gave him darshan, and Ramanuj Acharya gave him the Vaishnavi Diksha (initiated into the Vaishnav fellowship) in his dream. Marks of initiation were imprinted on his hands and chest. He was ordained to spread the vaishnav religion and to propagate the worship of Bhagwan.

While disappearing from the dream, Lord Shri Krishna told him, "I myself shall take birth on the earth and reveal myself. I shall give deliverance to infinite number of jivas (souls). I will meet you.� Ramanand Swami felt immensely happy upon hearing this.

Thereafter Ramanand Swami began to tour all over India, preaching the devotion of Shri Krishna. Having toured the country he came back to Kathiawad and met guru

Atmanand Swami. As usual, again this time he had a small discussion with his guru, who was finally vanquished. Thus Atmanand Swami renounced the Advaita philosophy and accepted idol worship and devotion to God. He also acknowledged that God is sakar (personal). He asked all his disciples to submit to Ramanand and told them, "Hereafter all of you should carry out the instructions of Ramanand Swami."

After some time Atmanand Swami passed away. Ramanand Swami became very sad.

He established his ashram (hermitage) in the village of Loj and began to preach from village to village the gospel of Shri Krishna. Wherever he went he declared, "I am only the drum-beater, wander here and there announcing the arrival of God. The main character of the play, the Lord Himself, is yet to come."

At this point of narration Lakhubai's throat was choked with emotion. She added, "Oh Brahmachari, we do not have faith in anyone other than our guru Atmanand Swami.

Other disciples have submitted to Ramanand Swami, but we three have stuck to this place.

Vithlanand and Balanand and I myselff will still hold on to our philosophy of God being nirgun and nirakar. We never listened to the preachings of Ramanand Swami."

Having heard this, Nilakanth Brahmachari gave a lengthy discourse to Lakhubai, Vithalanand and Balanand. In the end he succeeded in converting them from Advaita (absolute monism) philosophy to Vishistadvaita (qualified monism). He impressed upon them that God is always sakar and that the worship of and devotion to God are of great significance. All the three thus received true knowledge. Thus three months past after this incident. Nilakanth thought, "Lakhubhai has served me devoutly. Now she has understood the truth. Let me therefore give her something."

So Nilakanth asked her, "Lakhubai, I am very pleased, go on and ask me for a boon."

Lakhubai replied, "Brahmachari Maharaj, You are God incarnate, please bless me so that my son Veera, my sixty buffaloes and my fields may become immortal." Thrice Nilakanth asked her to ask for some other boon, and thrice the old woman demanded the same. Then Nilakanth thought, "This old lady does not know what to solicit as boon. Let me therefore give her the best thing in the world." So thinking he told her, "Lakhubai, I bestow on you a gift of My Akshardham (the highest abode of God)." After thus blessing her, Nilakanth took the way to Prabhaspatan.

25. NILAKANTH IN LOJ

It was the sixth day of the dark half of Shravan of Samvat 1856. In the daybreak; while all the village people and all the animals and birds we still asleep; the sun was visible in the eastern horizon, women of the village carrying pitchers on their heads and waists, came to the well to draw water. They could not believe their eyes. Their eyes were focussed on Nilakanth. They were dumb-founded to see him. Their minds got absorbed in his image. They all began to discuss among themselves, "Look! How charming is that child celibate! It is as if a prince has turned into a celibate! Why should he have renounced the

world at such a tender age? How unhappy would his mother have become of his leaving home! Let us go and ask him."

One by one they approached Nilakanth and asked, "Oh, child-sage, please open your eyes and tell us why you have renounced the world? Did your parents not love you? Or have you left your house from being displeased with your brothers and sisters-in-law?"

Then another exclaimed, "My goodness, look at his body. It is just a skeleton. He must have done severe penance? How could he have spent days and nights in forests and mountains? How could he have passed his days without food and water? How could he have slept in forests and deserts with such a delicate structure of the body? Oh child-sage, please tell us how you could bear cold, heat and rain without clothing?"

But Nilakanth was deeply engrossed in meditation. At last all the women requested him, "Oh Lord! Oh greatest of all! Please come to our houses. We shall serve you everyday with new varieties of delicious food. Please accept our services and sanctify our houses."

Nilakanth sat in meditation unmoved. Ultimately the women praising him turned back towards their houses with pitchers full of water. The matted hair on the head of Nilakanth began to flutter in the breeze. His lustrous forehead and contemplative eyes looked handsome. There was a faint smile on his face. The body was emaciated showing the spinal ribs conspicuously. He wore a kanthi (necklace of tulsi beads) round his neck, and had a danda (crutch) and a kamandal (wooden water-pot). Brahmatej (divine-light) emanated from his body as he sat still in meditation on mrigcharma (deerskin).

At that time Sukhanand Swami, a disciple of Ramanand Swami, came to bathe at the well. He saw Nilakanth. Immediately his senses were drawn to him. He bowed to him, awakened him and asked, "Oh child celibate, where do you come from? Where do you want to go? Who are your parents?"

Nilakanth replied, "I have come from Brahmapur and to Brahmapur I want to return.

Whoever can take me there are my true parents." Sukhanand was amazed to hear such a reply. He thought, "This brahmachari appears to be learned as Lord Vyas."

Then Nilakanth asked him a question, "Oh sage, please explain to me the characteristics of Jiva, Ishvar, Maya, Brahman and Parabrahman." Sukhanand Swami was stunned to hear such a difficult question. He said, "I regret my inability to answer this question, but here in this village there is an ashram (hermitage) of our Guru Ramanand Swami. A very competent chief disciple of his, Muktanand Swami, resides in this hermitage. Let us go to him. He will certainly give a satisfying answer to your question."

So Nilakanthvarni accompanied by Sukhanand Swami arrived at the hermitage of Ramanand Swami. Muktanand Swami welcomed him and gave him a seat on an asana.

Nilakanthvarni then asked Muktanand Swami the same question. Muktanand Swami

explained the true nature of Jiva, Ishvar, Maya, Brahman and Parabrahman, and then said, "I have clarified your question according to my understanding. I will be more than happy if you kindly stay here and listen to the discourses of our Guru Ramanand Swami.

Ramanand Swami is in-fact an incarnation of God and is devoted to Radha-Krishna. He is an incarnation of Uddhava himself."

Nilakanth listened to the request of Muktanand Swami. Besides, he saw that all the disciples of Ramanand Swami were pure and pious, had no vices and were engaged only in the worship of God.

Therefore Nilakanth said, "Respected Muktanand Swami, you have given excellent answers. I have asked the same questions to many grest sages in many holy places, but no one could bring a full satisfaction to me. You have given the right replies. Besides, I still remember what my father Dharmadev had told me when I was a child, that he was a disciple of Ramanand Swami. Therefore, I too, would like to meet Ramanand Swami."

Muktanand Swami again requested, "Guru Ramanand Swami is at Kutch at the moment. He is preaching to his followers. Please stay here till he returns. We shall stay together and carry on satsang (religious activities). "

Nilakanth accepted the request of Muktanand Swami and agreed to stay at the hermitage of Ramanand Swami in Loj. Thus having travelled throughout India for seven years, one month and eleven days, Nilakanthvarni finally settled down in the hermitage of Ramanand Swani in Loj.

Muktanand Swami called for all the disciples of Ramanand Swami and told them, "Look everyone, Nilakanthvarni has arrived. The festival of Janmashtami (birthday of Lord Shri Krishna) is due day after tomorrow. Therefore, beautify and decorate the hermitage and prepare for the festival."

26. SIGNIFICANCE OF NILAKANTH'S TRAVELS

From the tenth day of the bright half of Ashadh of Samvat 1849 to the sixth day of the dark half of Shravan of Samvat 1856, Nilakanth continuously travelled for seven years, one month and eleven days and finally settled down in Loj village. This great pilgrimage of Nilakanth was highly significant.

During the journey Nilakanth endured all sorts of hardships. He suffered cold, heat, rain and hailstorms. Many a time he went without food and water. He observed fasts. He undertook such a severe penance for six months that the blood in his body, being inherited from his mother, dried up. He lived in the midst of poisonous reptiles, insects and wild beasts. He passed through forests, mountains and through deep valleys, across the lakes and gushing rivers, through winding roads and thorny tracks. With only one cloth on his

body and bare-footed Nilakanth toured all the way without any conveyance or equipment.

What was his intention?

He endured all this to redeem the innumerable jivas (souls). By mere association with himself, he led innumerable animals and insects, and birds and beasts on the way of salvation. He gave darshan to many aspirants. He gave darshan to a number of devotees yearning for his darshan for infinite births, fulfilled their quest and gave them deliverance.

He disclosed the hypocrisy of the fake-sadhus, vairagis and bawas and taught them a lesson. By sheer force of his glance and firm resolve, he destroyed the asuras (evil people) thus rendering the way to worship free from danger for the devotees of God. He gave redemption to hundreds of rishis and munis (sages and saints), who were performing penance from time immemorial in forests, and made their penance fruitful. He gave refuge to thousands of souls.

Nilakanth sanctified the entire Bharat by touring bare-footed throughout. He sanctified the lakes, wells, rivers and oceans. He revived the places of pilgrimage. He purified the temples by his divine presence. He preached to the sages and saints living in ashrams and mathas (hermitages and monasteries) by his pure and flawless conduct.

Wherever he went Nilakanth preached the gospel of ahimsa (non-violence) and brahmacharya (celibacy,) dwelt on the importance of abjuring women and wealth and explained the duties of householders, sages and kings. He made a deep study of the places of pilgrimage, temples, lives of sages and saints, and the philosophy, and customs and traditions of the sampradayas (religious sects). He took mental note of the essential attributes of them all as deserved to be noted.

Wherever he went, Nilakanth examined whether there were any saints and sampradayas, favouring renunciation of women and wealth. He tried to see whether they believed that God is always sakar (having a form) and whether there was real knowledge of the distinction between the five entities - Jiva, Ishvar, Maya, Brahman and Parabrahman. Nilakanthvarni had asked questions regarding these five distinct entities in every place of pilgrimage, ashram, and religious sect, but no where did he receive satisfactory replies. Nilakanth did not find a single religious sect of his liking anywhere.

It was because of these reasons that Nilakanthvarni finally chose to reside in the ashram of Ramanand Swami in Loj. Here there were saints who stood for the abjuration of women and wealth. There was the worship of sakar God together with his devotee. They accepted the philosophy recognizing the five entities like Jiva, Ishvar, Maya, Brahman and Parabrahman as distinct from one another. It was pure bhakti sampradaya (a religious sect imploring worship of God). Hence Nilakanth decided to settle down in Kathiawad. He was antaryami (omnipresent and all knowing) and arshadrasta (seer). He knew that Ramanand Swami had prepared the ground for him in the region where he wanted to work. He knew that in this land of Kathiawad, which was sanctified by the footsteps of Lord Krishna, many devotees were awaiting him.

27. NILAKANTH IN TWO FORMS

Nilakanthvarni had now been in the ashram of Ramanand Swami for three days.

Today was the Janmastami festival. The whole ashram had been decorated with flags and many different decorations. Arches of asopalav leaves brought beauty to the ashram.

Trunks of plantain trees were planted at the entrance of the ashram. Drums were playing from the early morning. Janmashtami is a day for compulsory observance of a fast.

Therefore all the saints and devotees had observed a nirjala (fast without even water).

It was evening time. The devotees began to gather in the ashram. Everyone came with a gift, small or big. Bhajans (devotional songs) and dhun (repeated recital of God's name) were being sung in the ashram. Muktanand Swami gave a religious discourse. It was twelve at midnight. Balkrishna (child Krishna) was placed in a beautifully decorated cradle. Muktanand Swami performed the arati to celebrate the birth. To the surprise of all, Nilakanthvarni gave darshan in the cradle in place of the idol of child Krishna. At the same time he was also seen in another form seated in the assembly beside Muktanand Swami. Everybody was convinced that Nilakanth himself was the incarnation of Shri Krishna. Thus everyone in the assembly had his darshan for about half an hour. All of them took the prased of panchajiri, bowed to Nilakanth and returned to their homes.

28. SEPARATE MEETINGS OF MEN AND WOMEN

It was the fourth day of the bright half of the month of Bhadarva. There was a big compound belonging to Jivraj Sheth near ashram of Ramanand Swami. Every evening Muktanand Swami delivered his discourses there. Men and women from all over the village gathered there to listen to these discourses. Women sat in the meetings on one side slightly away from men. Everyone listened to the discourses of Muktanand Swami attentively.

Nilakanth observed that all men and women sat together to listen to the discourses.

This conduct violated the vow of celibcay. He did not approve of it. He got up from the meeting, went to the ashram and held his own separate meeting for men only. All the males left the meeting of Muktanand Swami to attend the one addressed by Nilakanth.

Only women were left in the meeting addressed by Muktanand Swami. Muktanand Swami realised the mistake. He said to the women sitting there, "Good bye to you all. My discourses are now over for good. I shall also hereafter go to listen to Nilakanth's discourses. From this day, there will be separate meetings for men and women." Thus Muktanand Swami also attended the meeting addressed by Nilakanth.

Then Nilakanth demanded, "There should not be joint discourses for men and women.

There should be separate entrances for them for darshan in temples. Within the temple, men and women should not touch each other. Women should not go about in a manner which would attract the attention of sadhus, and the sadhus should not enter places

occupied by women." He thus gave profound preaching. Since then the practice of separate meetings for men and women is followed in our sampradaya.

30. LETTER TO RAMANAND SWAMI

Nilakanth stayed for seven months in the ashram of Ramanand Swami. It was now the month of Phagun, but Ramanand Swami did not return. Nilakanth was anxious to have the darshan of Ramanand Swami. He told Muktanand Swami, "If you kindly permit me, I would like to go to Kutch for his darshan." Muktanand Swami replied, "Ramanand Swami will certainly return here in a few days. Please stay here till then. In the meantime, let us write a letter to him."

Then Nilakanthvarani and Muktanand Swami wrote separate letters to Ramanand Swami. They were carried to Kutch by Mayaram Bhatt. He delivered the letters to Ramanand Swami, who was greately pleased to read them. He announced in the meeting, "Now my worries are over. The Master of our fellowship, for whom I established the sadavrats (alms centres) and whom we were awaiting for many years has finally, arrived.

Today is a very auspicious and lucky day. Truly Nilakanth is the Gos manifest."

On hearing this, one of the devotees asked, "Is Nilakanth as great as Paravatbhai?

Ramanand Swami replied, "Oh! No he is much greater than Parvatbhai." The devotee then asked, "Is he as great as Sukhanand Swami?" "No, Nilakanth is much greater than Sukhanand." "Is he as great as Muktanand Swami?" Nilakanth is much greater than even Muktanand Swami." "Is he then as great as you?"

Then Ramanand Swami replied at length, "Even I am not as great as Nilakanth. He is a much greater potentate than I am. Everybody will come to know of his greatness when he reveals his prowess. I am only the drum-beater; the real hero of the play is Nilakanth."

Thereafter Ramanand Swami wrote a letter to Muktanand Swami in which he said, "Serve Varni with great devotion. Take care of him. Ask all the saints to learn yoga from him." He wrote another letter to Nilakanthvarni wherein he said, "Please do not undergo anymore penance. Take care of your body, you have to accomplish great achievements.

You have to liberate thousands of men and women. Please teach eightfold yoga to all the saints there. Follow the instructions of Muktanand Swami. Do not take trouble of coming here. I shall return there in the month of Vaishakh and we shall meet. If you earnestly desire to remain in fellowship, you should tightly embrace the pillar."

Ramanand Swami then instructed Mayaram Bhatt to return with the two letters. He instructed him, "Mayaram take these two letters with you and hand them over to Muktanand Swami. Inform the devotees in all the villages on your way back, of the greatness of Nilakanth and ask them to go to Loj and have the darshan of Nilakanth."

After a few days Mayaram Bhatt reached Loj. He delivered the letters to Muktanand Swami and also related to him the story of the greatness of Nilakanth, as told by Ramanand Swami. Nilakanth was very much pleased to read the letter. He at once got up and embraced the pillar of the ashram. Muktanand Swami thereupon said to him, "Let go of that pillar. What Ramanand Swami wants to convey is that you should adhere to the Fellowship along with other sadhus in the ashram and worship God with them."

In accordance with the instructions of Ramanand Swami, Nilakanth stayed in the ashram with Muktanand Swami. He taught yogic asanas (postures) and other yogic exercises to all the other saints of the ashram. He took a single meal in the day at noon consisting of a loaf of of bajra, chillies and a small ball of crushed midhiaval (medicinal leaves). He got up from bed very early in the morning and engaged himself in the service of the inmate of the ashram. He drew water from the well for them to bathe with, went out to the neighbouring villages to ask for bhiksha (alms) carrying a kavad on his shoulder, collected dung for fuel, and swept the floors and pathways of the ashram. He thus kept himself engaged for the whole day in service and worship.

31. THE GLORY OF NILAKANTH

There was village named Shekhpat. Lalji Suthar (a carpenter), a disciple of Ramanand Swami, lived there. Lalji Suthar went to see Ramanand Swami in Kutch and bowed to him.

The Swami asked, "Why did you come here all of a sudden?" Lalji Suthar said, "A few days ago Mayaram Bhatt who was going to Loj with your letters, halted at Shekhpat for the night. He informed me that the Varni who has arrived in Loj is mightier than you. I thought I should see you and acquaint you of the fact that Mayaram Bhatt is propagating the greatness of Nilakanth in your name."

On hearing this Ramanand Swami scolded him, "Have you come here for that reason?

Why did you bother? I myself have sent those words to all through Mayaram Bhatt. Now go for the darshan of Varni in Loj." But Lalji was not satisfied. He queired, "Swamiji, how great is Nilakanth? Is he as great as Dattaraya, Rishabhdev or Ramchandraji?"

Ramanand Swami calmly replied, "They are all great. Shri Krishna is greater than any one of them. But Nilakanth is the greatest of them all. He is the incarnator of the incarnations. How can we sing his greatness, it will be inadequate. Even the greatest of the yogis and munis meditate on him. Why did you then come all the way to Kutch, leaving the darshan of such great Nilakanthvarni? Now, therefore, go to Loj, have the darshan of Nilakanth and bow to him."

Lalji Suthar was surprised to hear this. Overwhelmed with joy, he bowed to his guru, and left enthusiastically for Loj for the darshan of Nilakanth.

32. A SERIES OF MIRACLES

Nilakanth was staying with Muktanand Swami in Lojpur in accordance with the instruction of Ramanand Swami. He rendered all sorts of services in the ashram. He collected dung, swept the ashram ground, cleansed the utensils and drew water for the sadhus to bathe with. He also went with the kavad to beg alms. Every morning he thus went around each lane of the village, to and from, with the kavad on his shoulder, uttering the words, 'Ramkrishna dhuni dhuni, Ramkrishna dhuni dhuni' and after receiving alms would go from one lane to another. Thus as a routine, he went for alms every morning.

In the afternoon, he went out to collect dung cakes for the fuel of the stone. At that very time many girls and women of the village would also go, with baskets over their heads, to collect dung. From land to lane they moved round in search of lumps of dung.

Hence Nilakanth used his yogic power. As soon as a village girl moved stoop to collect the lump, she would turn back in fright. She would see the whole universe in the lump of dung. On seeing the whole universe with its rivers, mountains, valleys, forests, couds, lightnings, etc, in the lump of dung, she would run away for safety, and Nilakanth would then easily collect the lump. He would thus collect the maximum lumps, mix grass with the dung and prepare dung-cakes for the fuel.

Two miles away from Loj there was a village named Sheel. They had grown plenty of cucumber on their farms. They thought of giving cucumber to Muktanand Swami so that he would get pickle prepared out of it for Ramanand Swami. Thus they came to Muktanand Swami and said, "We have produced plenty of cucumber on our farms. Will you, please, send about dozen of devotees to collect the best from the produce? We wish that the cucumber be dried and its pickle be served to Ramanand Swami."

Thereupon Muktanand Swami instructed Sukhanand, "Go to the village at once. Send about twelve to fifteen devotees to bring cucumber from Sheel." When Nilakanth heard this, he said, "Muktanand Swami, there is no need to call for devotees. I shall go to sheel today with this Deva Bhakta and bring the whole stock of cucumber."

Muktanand Swami tried to persuade him, "Nilakanth, you are physically weak.

Besides, you two alone cannot carry the whole load weighing about fifteen to twenty maunds from a distance of two miles. Therefore go along with some devotees from the village." Thus Muktanand Swami tried to convince Nilakanth, but he said, "I shall personally render this service. I am sure it will not be too heavy of a burden for me." Thus Nilakanth, accompained by Deva Bhakta, went to village Sheel. He collected the best cucumbers weighing eighteen maunds. Then a devotee said, "Wait, let me bring a cart."

But Nilakanth stopped him. He said, "We do not need a cart. Just bring a large chofal (piece of thick cloth). I myself will carry the whole load on my head."

The devotee brought a large chofal at once to Nilakanth. They made a big bundle containing sixteen maunds of cucumber. They also made another small bundle of the remaining two maunds of cucumber. Then Nilakanth said, "Place this big bundle on my head." About twelve persons lifted the big bundle with great difficulty and placed it on the head of Nilakanth. They were all taken by surprise. Such a big bundle remained a span above the head of Nilakanth. The other small bundle weighing two maunds was carried

by Deva Bhakta. Both of them left for Loj.

Nilakanth was walking briskly, whereas Deva Bhakta, who had slowdown behind, got fatigued after walking for about a mile. He began to gasp and sweat. He said, "I cannot carry this heavy bundle." Nilakanth said, "Why do you worry? Look at that big slab of stone. Just climb on it and lightly place your bundle on the bundle over my head."

Deva Bhakta, doing as instructed by Nilakanth, placed his bundle over Nilakanth's head. The people on the way were greatly surprised to see a big bundle floating over Nilakanth's head and other small bundle stocked over it. When they reached the village Loj, Nilakanth placed both the bundles in the verandah of the ashram, went inside and said to Muktanand Swami, "We have brought the stock of cucumber. Please ask the sadhus now to carry it inside in baskets."

Muktanand Swami came out to see what amount of cucumber was brought. He was stunned to see the big bundle. All the other saints gathered to see what Nilakanth has brought. Their surprise knew no bounds. Deva Bhakta described the incident, point to point, to Muktanand Swami. Muktanand Swami thereupon touched the feet of Nilakanth reverentially realizing him to be a completed yogi. The sadhus then carried the cucumbers inside for storage in the storeroom.

33. MEETING WITH RAMANAND SWAMI

It was the month of Jeth. Early monsoon showers had already set in. The rivers were rising. In the evening a devotee named Kurji Deva arrived in the ashram with a letter.

Muktanand Swami opened the letter and read it. It was from Ramanand Swami. He had written, "I have come to Piplana this morning. You may now conveniently come here for my darshan along with Nilakanthvarni and other saints." Nilakanthvarni was overjoyed to hear this. His long cherised wish was at last to be fulfilled.

On receiving the good news, Muktanand Swami presented a handkerchief sanctified

by Ramanand Swami to Kurji. On seeing this, every saint gave Kurji Dave something as a gift. But Nilakanth had nothing to give. He had nothing besides a loincloth. He, therefore, called Kurji Dave near him and said, "Look, I shall give you my Akshardham (the highest abode of God) as a gift from me." But Kurji Dave could not understand the significance of this boon. He returned, wondering what Akshardham would be like.

Nilakanthvarni, Muktanand Swami and all the other saints started for Piplana. They walked for the whole night in drizzling rain. They were all were anxious to have the darshan of Ramanand Swami. Therefore all of them walked fast. But being weak in body, Nilakanth soon got fatigued. One of the saints thereupon advised, "When shall we reach Piplana if you walk so slowly? If you agree, we shall carry you on our shoulders and walk speedily. The whole sangh (team) is being late because of you."

"There is no need for you to carry me,� replied Nilakanth. With the aid of his yogic powers, he soon began to walk at a accelerated speed, with the result that all the rest in the team lagged behind. None could keep pace with him. At last they reached the bank of the river Ozat. Piplana was on the opposite bank. The river was overflowing on both the banks. The flood was so powerful that even the strongest of the elephants would be carried away with it.

But Nilakanth would not stop. He yearned to have the darshan of Ramanand Swami.

By his yogic powers, he walked across the river Ozat in no time and soon reached the opposite bank. All the saints in the group saw this in sheer amazement. Nilakanth, after reaching the other bank, bathed, worshipped and was ready waiting for the others to arrive. When the flood receded after an hour, the saints got on a raft and reached the other bank. Thereafter Muktanand Swami accompained by Nilakanth and the other saints entered the village of Piplana.

Ramanand Swami had stayed at the house of Narsinh Mehta, a devotee of Piplana.

Muktanand Swami and Nilakanth went to the house of Narsinh Mehta. Ramand Swami sat on a cot on a matterss and rested against a pillow. Nilakanth went to him and prostrated. Ramanand Swami immediately got up from his seat and joyfully embraced Nilakanth. Then Ramanand Swami sat on his seat, and Nilakanth sat below on an asana (mat) facing him. This was the first occasion of Nilakanth's meeting with Ramanand Swami. It was twelfth day of the dark half of Jeth of Samvat 1856.

Ramanand Swami asked Muktanand Swami, "How long has it been since Varni has come to the ashram?" Muktanand Swami replied, "He arrived in the ashram on the sixth day of the dark half of Shravan last year and has been eager for the favour of your darshan since then."

Ramanand Swami then said, "Muktanand, do you know that this is the Varniraj (king of celibates) for whom we had opened sadavrats (alm houses) in all villages. I had been waiting for him for a long time." Then he addressed Nilakanth, "Brahmacharji, where have you come from?"

Nilakanth narrated his entire prior life. Then Ramanand Swami asked again, "Where will you now go from here, Brahmachariji?" Nilakanth replied, "I shall now stay here in your service. I do not want to go anywhere else. I shall carry out your instructions."

Ramanand Swami was immensely gratified to hear this.

34. POLICEMAN IN A TRANCE

One day Ramanand Swami, seated on a mattress spread over a raised dais and resting against a pillow, was delivering his discourse. Nilakanthvarni was sitting on a mat beside him. At that time a jamadar (chief of the police) came there. He was a Muslim. He bowed to Ramanand Swami and sat down to listen to his discourse.

While listening to the discourse, he went into samadhi (trance). While in samadhi he had the darshan of the Akshardham. He saw Nilakanthvarni seated on a beautiful divine throne in Akshardham. Infinite muktas (liberated souls) were standing and praying to Nilakanth all around him. He also saw Ramanand Swami, along other muktas, praying to Nilakanth.

After a while the jamadar woke up from the samadhi, stood up and exclaimed, "What is this? Why is this perverse tradition amongst the Hindus? I find it quite improper. How is it that amongst you Hindus the mursid (preceptor) sits on a higher seat and Allah (God) sits on a lower seat?"

Ramanand Swami explained, "Jamadar saheb, you may not be able to appreciate it.

This is our ancient tradition. Sage Vashishtha used to sit on a high seat, while Lord Ramchandra sat down beside him."

Neelkantvarni was amused to hear such a remark. The Jamadar could not understand much in this. So he simply bowed to Nilakanth and, scratching his head in bewilderment, departed.

35. VAISHNAVI DIKSHA

Nilakanth spent the chaturmas (the four months of monsoon) with Ramanand Swami.

He also served in the Annakut festival during Diwali. Then came the Prabodhini Ekadashi (the eleventh day of the bright half of the month Kartik) of Samvat year 1957. Everyone in the ashram had observed a nirjala fast.

After the bath and performing his daily worship, Nilakanth bowed to Ramanand Swami and said, “Swamiji, you are my mother and my father. You alone are my guru.

Please favour me today with the mahadiksha (initiation into asceticism). Please place your hands on my head.

Thereupon Ramanand Swami called for musicians versed in playing dhol, transa and sharnai. He organized a great festival. He called learned Brahmins to perform a sacrifice in accordance with the injunction of the scriptures.

Nilakanth's head was completely shaven. The jata (big tuft of hair) was removed from his head. Clad in beautiful clothes, Nilakanth came to guru Ramanand Swami in the

sacrificial hall. Ramanand Swami gave him diksha (initiation), uttered the gurumantra (wise advice of guru) in his ear and gave him two names "Sahajanand Swami" and "Narayan Mani." Thus he was given a Vaishnavi diksha. Ramanand Swami also gave him this precept, "Oh Sahajanand, observe religion and help all others to observe the same.

Redeem all the souls living on the earth and propagate the significance of bhakti (devotion) with mahima (God's greatness)." Thus Nilakanth became Sahajanand Swami.

36. HEAD OF THE FELLOWSHIP

Thereafter Sahajanand Swami went from village to village in the company of Ramanand Swami. They toured many villages in Sorath. Wherever they went, people felt themselves at peace at the very sight of Sahajanand Swami.

Sahajanand Swami used to eat only a loaf and chillies everyday. His body was extremely weak. Therefore Ramanand Swami made him undergo massage with wax oil and asked him not to undertake any vratas (abstentions) or fasts. He also insisted Nilakanth sitting for meals along with him everyday. He fed Nilakanth with nutritious food. He served him butter and sugar so that he can gain physical strength.

A year passed when once Ramanand Swami called Muktanand, Sukhanand and other saints as well as the devotees like Ramdasjibhai, Manchabhakta, Bhimbhai, Parvatbhai, Mayaram Bhatt and other and asked them, "I want to relinguish the gadi (headship) of this satsang (fellowship). Whom do you think I should install on the gadi in my place?" All the saints and devotees in agreement declared, "Swamiji, this child-celibate Sahajanand Swami alone deserves to be installed on the gadi."

Guru Ramanand Swami then observed, "You have given expression to the wish I most cherished. Let us therefore begin preparations for the celebration."

Ramanand Swami called for the leading devotees and held discussed with them. He confirmed the appropriate muhurt (auspicious time according to the scriptures) from the Brahmins. The Brahmins indicated a muhurt on the Prabodhini Ekadashi (eleventh day of the brighter half of Kartik). Ramanand Swami set the kan-kotries (invitations) written and sent to all of his disciples. He instructed them all to participate in the celebration with their families, and not to miss the occasion.

Ramanand Swami, thereafter, asked Mayaram Bhatt to make arrangements for the Brahmins and the yajna (sacrifice). Parvatbhai was put in charge to purchase all the necessary iteams for the occasion and he was also put in the custody of ornaments.

Bhimbhai was called upon to arrange for bead and quilts. Govardhanbhai was placed in charge of arranging for ghee, oil and other provisions. Hirjibhai was asked to keep accounts and account books and to attend to the devotees. Thus Swamiji distributed the work among all the devotees.

A large mundap (pavilion), which could accommodate thousands of devotees, was set up in Jetpur. The sacrificial ground, the kitchen, the stables etc. were all beautifully constructed. Entrance and arches were erected by planting trunks of banana trees. The whole mundap and the town of Jetpur were decorated with flags and buntings and festoons of asopalav leaves.

It was the eleventh day of the bright half of Kartik (Prabodhini Ekadashi) of Samvat year 1858. The lanes and by-lanes of Jetpur town were thronged by devotees. Choghadias (fine drums) were being played from the early morning. Sahajanand Swami, Muktanand Swami, Sukhanand Swami followed Ramanand Swami to the Bhadar river early in the morning for bath. After the bath they all returned to the place where they were temporarily staying. After completing his daily worship, Sahajanand Swami prostrated before Ramanand Swami and performed his pujan (liturgy, adoration).

Thereafter, all of them started for the mundap accompanied by the beating of drums and pipe playing. The policemen were firing their rifles. Groups of saints were singing kirtans (glorifing songs). Ramanand Swami and Sahajanand Swami were both seated in a coach driven by two horses. Thus the whole parade arrived at the mundap.

The mundap was resounding with the recitation of Vedic mantras (hymns) by the Brahmins. The sharnai and the drums were being played. The sacrificial alter was in the middle of the mundap. To its south a beautiful asana (seat) was fixed. The whole atmosphere was rendered fregrant with the perfumes of dhup (incense), deep (lighted lamps) and chandan (sandalwood paste). Idols of Radha and Krishna were placed near the altar (platform for sacrifices.) Both Ramanand Swami and Sahajanand Swami went near the idols and bowed to them. Then they sat down before the altar and offered delicious rich food offering in accordance with the injunctions. With Yajnanarayan (the God of sacrifice) as a witness, Ramanand Swami held Sahajanand Swami by his hand and seated him on his gadi (headship of the fellowship).

Guru Ramanand Swami then put sandalwood paste on the forehead of Sahajanand Swami, impressed a chandla (circular mark) of Kumkum (vermilion) on it and placed a garland round his neck. The whole atmosphere resounded with the victory slogan, “Victory to Shri Sahajanand Swami Maharaj!' The deities showered flowers from the sky.

Women began to sing auspicious songs. The bhaktas (devotees) cried the victory slogan.

All the saints one by one performed the puja (adoration) of Sahajanand Swami. Then Sahajanand Swami prostrated before Ramanand Swami and then sat down to receive sermons from the guru. According to the popular tradition, Ramanand Swami delivered the sermons.

"Observe, and help others to observe dharma (religion) as prescribed in the Vedas.

Perform sacrifices including the Vishnuyag. Perform deeds for the welfare of the people.

Propagate jnan (knowledge), vairagya (detachment) and other spiritual values. Give diksha (initiation) to those aspirants who are of good conduct and unattached from

worldly life and want to renounce the world. Build large temples and shrines and install therein images of Radha-Krishna. Spread the doctrine of bhakti (worship) imbibed with dharma (religion). Get the scriptures written and consolidate the strength of the sampradaya (fellowship). Accept whatever clothes, ornaments, fruits, flowers and that are offered to you out of affection for you. Remove the unworthy and averse from the fellowship."

Having thus sermonised, Ramanand Swami offered Sahajanand Swami beautiful clothes like surval (trousers) and pagh (turban) to wear and necklaces of gold, pearls and diamonds as also rings, ornament on the arm, armlets, ear-rings, etc to put on. With incense and lighted lamp, Guru Ramanand Swami performed the arati of Sahajanand Swami.

Thereafter Guru Ramanand Swami enjoined all the saints and the devotees to obey the commands of Sahajanand Swami and to worship God. He added, "I have arrived a little earlier like Ganesh, but Sahajanand is the master of all. He is Purushottam Narayan Himself (Allmighty God.) Therefore all of you should act according to His dictates and worship Him devoutly."

Thereafter Ramanand Swami asked Sahajanand Swami to demand a boon. Sahajanand Swami asked for two boons, "If any of your devotees has to suffer pain as from the sting of a scorpion, let Me suffer that pain on My body and instead let your devotee suffer no such pain. Also if your devotee is destined to have a rampatar (begging-bowl), let that rampatar come to me, but may your devotee not suffer from want of food and clothing." Seeing such a generous feeling of Sahajanand Swami, the eyes of all the devotees became wet with tears. Ramanand Swami granted Him both the boons with such words, "So shall it be."

37. THE PASSING AWAY OF RAMANAND SWAMI

About a month elapsed, Ramanand Swami thought, "Pragat (manifest) Purushottam has already been installed on the gadi. My work is over. I should no longer sustain this body now." With this thought he went to Faneni village. There he told the devotees, "This body is mortal. Whoever holds a body eventually abandons it. The purpose for which I held my body has now been fulfilled. All of you obey the dictates of Sahajanand Swami.

He will protect you. He will remove all your hardships and miseries. He is mightier than I. Therefore do not worry."

Ramanand Swami then fell ill. While sitting in meditation on his seat, he left this body and attained Akshardham on the thirteenth day of the bright half of Magsar in Samvat year 1958.