by Anju Kumari
Sydney, Australia

In the pilgrim town of Shirdi, nestled amidst the varied landscapes of Maharashtra, India, resided an enigmatic figure known as Shri Sai Baba. Sai Baba was a man shrouded in mystery, yet to this day his subtle presence continues to radiate an aura of divinity that draws countless souls to his humble abode. Among these devotees was myself; inspired by the wonderful life and teachings of Sai Baba.

Shri G. R. Dhabolkar, a man of learning and intellect, found himself captivated by the spiritual grandeur of Sai Baba. He was personally blessed and permitted by Sai Baba to be his biographer. He recorded various incidents for the sake of ardent seekers of truth and enlightenment. The book he penned, “Shri Sai Satcharitra,” serves as a beacon, illuminating the path to faith and devotion for many who are yet to experience the miraculous touch of Sai Baba.

One such account I wish to share is my own journey towards belief in the divine nature of Shri Sai Baba. My story begins in the “Dwarkamayi” in Shirdi. Seated in prayer on the floor of the Masjid, I heard an innocuous internal command from the Master, “Go and sit in the Wada.” Little did I know that this simple instruction would set me on a path leading to profound transformation.

As I followed his bidding, I found myself seated in the platform of the Buty Wada building where the magnificent marble figure of Sai Baba resides, facing east. It was only later that I learned the words meant “Go and listen to the sacred texts being read in the Wada.” This incident marked the beginning of a series of events that would forever change my life.

My faith in Sai Baba began to grow steadily, nurtured by his invisible divine presence and the miraculous tales shared by other devotees. One such tale is about my son’s prolonged illness in August 1995. Despite the best efforts of eminent doctors, there seemed no improvement or resolution for his condition.

In a moment of desperation, I turned to Sai Baba’s picture, seeking solace and guidance. He intuitively responded by instructing me to bring my son to his abode. Taking it as a divine sign, with unwavering faith in the Master’s wisdom, we made our way to Shirdi. Upon arrival, the “Dwarkamayi” (masjid) was miraculously empty. Seeing that no one was around, we climbed the steps and prostrated before the place where Sai Baba would be seated. Suddenly the seat’s sacred effulgence beamed forth and the masjid was filled with an amazing brilliance. It appeared as though Sai Baba took my son into his arms and whispered words of comfort and healing.

The days, following the visit, were filled with anticipation as I watched over my child, hoping for a miraculous recovery. And then it happened – the protracted illness subsided, leaving behind only memories of pain and fear. My son was healed, not just physically but also spiritually, thanks to the compassionate touch of Sai Baba.

This experience served as a testament to the healing powers of Sri Sai Baba, both for my body and soul. It marked the culmination of my journey towards belief in his divine nature – a transformation that began with simple obedience to his divine message and was sealed by the miraculous recovery of my son.

Today, as I look back on this incredible journey, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to have known Sri Sai Baba and be touched by his grace. His teachings continue to guide me through life’s trials and tribulations, reminding me that faith in him is all one needs to transcend materialism and tap into the dormant higher self within us all.

In closing, I would like to echo the sentiments of other devotees: “A great healer and spiritual master, Sri Sai Baba is able to transmute the lower self of his devotees mixed with the waste of baser desires and passions into the effulgence of the dormant higher self.”

May this account inspire faith in those who seek Sai Baba and serve as a reminder that divine grace is ever-present, waiting for us to open our hearts and minds to His transformative power.