Sree Dwarakamyi Detailed

Saibaba lived in Dwarakamai for 60 Years

Shirdi Sai baba gave blessings to devotees for 60 years from this place

WHY DWARAKAMAI?

"This is our Dwarakamai where you are sitting. She wards off all dangers and anxieties of the children who sit on her lap". “Mashidimayee is her name. Will she ever go back on her promise?” said Baba to Bala Saheb Mirikar who was going to Chitali, and was to have an encounter with a serpent (Ref. ESS, XXII).

A Mother is always full of love and tenderly merciful towards her child. Mashid or Ma+Shi+da means refuge at the feet of Lord Shiva. In Shirdi the Parabrahma gave refuge and is still giving refuge to the multitudes of devotees that flock there.

The word Dwaraka can be broken into Dwar+Ka. Dwar means the door and Ka means Brahman. Thus, it is the door or the gateway to get to or reach Brahman. Dwaraka is that place where one can get freedom from the bondage of Karmic actions. Dwaraka is also known as Mukthidham and Mokshapuri.

It was here that Baba spent 60 years in bliss. Here Baba granted his devotees wishes, and nurtured them like the mother tortoise. Finally, he took Maha Samadhi in his beloved Mashidimayee.

Baba's words are always true. Then why did Baba call this Masjid 'Dwarakamai"? One can geographically, historically, mythologically place Dwaraka at Shirdi.

1. The Churning of Kshirsagar

The story of churning the Kshirasagar goes like this. It was agreed by the Gods and Demons that whoever accepted the Halahal (poison) was also able to partake of the Ambrosia (Amrit). Lord Shiva drank the Halahal and it was made to stop in His throat. Thus He earned the name "THIRU NEEL KANTESHWAR" and the place of occurrence got the name "GHAT SIRAS" (taluq: Parthardi, SE of Shirdi).

After the Halahal, Ambrosia came into creation and the Gods partook of it. Chandra (Moon) and Surya (Sun) came to know that Rahu and Kethu stealthily came to the God's side and partook the Ambrosia. They quickly informed Lord Vishnu about this. Vishnu came in the disguise of the beautiful Mohini and dazzled Rahu and Kethu and then cut the head of Rahu with her golden chakra. The place where Rahu's body was thrown is called Rahuri (about 45 kms from Shirdi) where a temple is said to exist. The place of occurrence is called Mohini Raj (Arda Nari Nateshwar temple at Newasa; 110 km SE of Shirdi). Kethu's bodyless head fell in Kethu temple at Rathangad (60 km NW of Rahuri). The nectar that flowed out of Kethu's mouth at Rathangad became the exalted Parwara river. This river was originally known as Amrit Vahini (carrier of nectar).

Out of the 14 Ratnas (jewels), Lord Shiva took Halahal, Ambrosia and Chandra. The place of Chandra is now called Chandgoan (about 130 kms from Shirdi) where Chandreshwar temple is. Lord Krishna took Devi Lakshmi, Kausthab (gold making bell), Shank and Dhanur. Lord Indra took Airavatam, Kamadhenu, Rambha, Parijatham and Dhanvantari (Ashvini Kumar), the place is called Belapur (25 kms from Shirdi). The Bilveshwar Mandir is there. The place of Ashvini Kumar is called Ashvi (20 km from Shirdi). Lord Surya took the seven headed horse and the place is called Kolhar (45 kms from Shirdi).

2. The Yadav dynasty

As late as 12th and 13Ih century, Yadav (Lord Krishna's dynasty) ruled most of present Maharashtra. Their capital was Devgad Fort near Aurangabad mentioned in the Dhyaneshwari.

Rukmini, the wife of Lord Krishna, was born at Kundipur, Amravati district, near Nagpur. Her father ohishmak, was a king and his capital was Devgad near Fort Aurangabad.

3. Pandharpur

The southern most tip of Dwaraka is situated in Sholapur district (450 kms from Shirdi). The story of Pundalik is as follows:

Once Rukmini left Lord Krishna in a huff. Krishna went after her to pacify her. He roamed the Dhandrivan forest, found and pacified her. On His way He saw Pundalik doing ardent seva to his parents. On seeing the Lord, Pundalik threw a brick and asked Krishna to sit a while, till he had finished. The Lord stood on the brick and waited with astonishment arms akimbo. The Lord was pleased at the selfless seva and said to Pundalik 'ask for a boon'. Pundalik unhesitantly asked the L

4. Gopal Kala

Lord Krishna practiced Gopal Kala (parched rice mixed with curds etc. in an earthen pot). Baba too mixed all the food in the Kolamba and partook of it and distributed it to all. Gopal Kala is performed by the Sansthan on the completion of all ceremonies at Shirdi.

5. Our Dwarakamai

The best explanation is given in English Sai Satcharitra Ch. IV. Definition of Dwaraka quoted from Skanda Purana 'The place where the doors are open for all people regardless of caste, community and creed, for accomplishing Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha is called Dwaraka'-Baba's Masjid in Shirdi is open to one and all.

The sanctum sanctorum is closed at about 9 p.m., while the Sabhamandap is left open throughout the night. Before the sanctum sanctorum is closed it is swept and cleaned, a zaari full of water is placed in front of Baba’s photograph, the mosquito net is hung around the photograph and a lit Kandil (lantern) is hung above the Kathada or railing.

In 1996, this Kandil started swinging; many devotees felt that it was an omen, others felt that some great change, or event was about to take place in Shirdi. Many devotees gathered around to behold the event, the place of the Kandil was changed, yet the swinging did not stop. This happened for about a week, the only event that occurred was that Sivanesan Swamiji died on 12th February 1996. He loved the Dwarakamai and from the early 1960’s looked after it with tender and loving care

What did this Masjid look like?

This Masjid that Baba extolled was old and dilapidated. There were deep pits and huge holes in the floor. Each and every nook and corner had garbage dumped in it. It was in this ambience that he stayed, blissfully smoking his Chillim, by day and night. To appease his hunger he took Bhiksha (Alms) from five houses. Whether the food was stale or delicious he did not bother.

On his body were torn and tattered clothes, and it was impossible for the people to recognize his divinity. Often he roamed in the forests nearby. There he would sit under the Babul Tree (a small tree full of thorns), often talking to some unknown entity and waving his hands about in a threatening manner. The villagers saw his lifestyle and took little notice of him.

Saibaba Chavadi shirdi

The only time they interacted with him was when someone in the family was sick and they needed some medicines. Baba dispensed his medicines readily. If the patient did not recover quickly, he himself went and nursed him back to health.

Baba’s divinity dawned on the villagers only after Nana Sahib Chandorkar’s visits to Shirdi. He was convinced of Baba’s superhuman powers and divinity although, Gangagiri Maharaj had told the villagers “He is a valuable diamond lying in a heap of rubbish. It is your good fortune that he has come to stay amongst you”.

The Sadguru manifests to uplift his devotees. His only concern is their welfare in every aspect of life. He is eager that they progress spiritually and that they are filled with love, and bliss. The devotees are also eager to do Guru Seva, charitable deeds, and fulfill his wishes.

The Repair of the Masjid

Nana Sahib’s heart was bursting with love and devotion. He was eager to renovate and repair the old and dilapidated Masjid. His only thought was “How will I get permission to make the Masjid more habitable?”. Baba However was quite content, and did not grant him permission. Nonetheless with this thought in his mind he went to Shirdi.

The next morning Nana was standing outside the Masjid and waiting for Mahalsapati, who had done to get his Bhiksha. Having received it, he was about to enter the Masjid, when Nana accosted him. Nana was eager to tell him of his plan. At that very moment Baba called out to Mahalsapati.

Mahalsapti immediately went to Baba, who said, “Arre Bhagat, who is standing outside?”. Mahalsapti told him that it was Nana Sahib Chandorkar. Innocently Baba said, “Is that so? Bhagat I wanted to have your opinion on this matter. That Nana says, “Baba I would like to build a new Masjid”. Now don’t you think our old Masjid is good enough for us?”. To this Mahalsapati replied, “Baba let him build a new Masjid. It will be very useful for both of us, as we will have a place to sit, and to sleep when the time comes”. Then Baba agreed and gave his consent.

As soon as Baba gave his consent, Mahalsapati called out to Nana, and asked him to start the work. Nana immediately brought a coconut and broke it. Thus, on Mahalsapati’s advice Nana Sahib Chandorkar was allowed to renovate the Masjid. And Kaka Saheb Dixit was allowed to do the flooring. (Refer “Shiladhi” by Dr.Keshav B Gavankar).

The three carpenter brothers Kondaji, Gabaji and Tukaram Sutar provided the greatest help in the repair of Masjid. All the woodwork was done by them. After the renovation the management of the Masjid continued with them for many years. Till Baba’s Mahasamadhi, Tukaram undertook the sweeping of the Masjid. He took care of Baba’s needs like heating water, and giving it to Baba to wash his face and mouth. Baba would not allow any other person to do this. (Refer “Shri Sai Baba of Shirdi” by the Late Rao Bahadur M.W.Pradhan).

The Sabhamandap (1911) – Extension of Dwarakamai

The area in front of the Dwaraka Mai was a vacant plot. The devotees stood there and attended the Aratis, often in the scorching heat and rain. Dixit thought that if a Sabhamandap or portico was built, then it would provide shelter for the devotees from the elements. He was determined to build it no matter what it cost.

Gopal Gund who started the Urs thought that he should repair the Masjid. But that job was for Nana Chandorkar, and the pavement work for Dixit. Permission at first was not granted, but, on the intervention of Mahalsapathi, it was granted. Dixit wanted to extend the space in front of the Masjid so that the devotees could use it. He bought tall iron pillars, and angled brackets. On the day that Baba slept in the Chavadi, he and the other devotees worked all night. The next morning when Baba came to the Dwarakamai Mai he swiftly pulled out the pillars. In 1911 this Sabha Mandap was put in order with great efforts. In Sai Satcharitra, Chapter 6, a detailed account is given under “the renovation of the Masjid and construction of the Sabha Mandap”.

An incident is mentioned, how Baba caught hold of one post with one hand and Tatya's neck with the other hand and shook both. Then taking Tatya's pheta He burnt it offering one rupee from His pocket. Seeing this strange behaviour none dared to intervene. After cooling down He brought one beautiful embroidered pheta and Himself tied it on Tatya's head. As if Tatya was being given a special honour. (Ref. ESS, Ch.VI).

After this incident Baba allowed the work to go on smoothly and thus the devotees had a place for worshipping Baba. The pavilion is still there where the devotees can see, and participate in the worship of Baba and also touch the sacred articles used by Baba.

Thanks to Dixit’s dedication and determination. The devotees now can enjoy its comfort. In this Mandap many Palkis stop for a while. Devotees use it for exchanging garlands on their weddings, for christening ceremonies and Anna Prashana (the ceremony of solid food being given to the child). But most importantly, devotees recite the Vishnu Sahasranama, Do Baba’s Naam Jap, and read the Sai Satcharitra.

Thus, the Dwarakamai Mai had two parts, the Sanctum Sanctorum which is the Masjid or Dwarakamai Mai and the Sabha Mandap.

The Sanctum Sanctorum or Dwarakamai Mai faces east. Three steps lead to the inside. The three steps are 17’ in length and 15’ in breadth.

The entrance to the Sabha Mandap faces south. The roof has CI corrugated tin sheets. These sheets were donated by Baba’s ardent devotee Capt.Darruwala as a gesture of gratitude. Through his mysterious ways Baba saved him, his crew and some ships from the enemy during the Russo-Japanese war of 1905. The roof is supported by 12 iron pillars, 15’ long.

There are small niches in the eastern wall, seven on the right, and ten on the left, of the shrine that houses Baba’s photograph. In the past, devotees used to place lighted Diyas (earthen lamps) as Baba loved to light Diyas. The length of the Sabha Mandap is about 48’ from the Platform to the Shrine, and the breadth is 38’.

There is a room that shares its eastern wall of the Sabha Mandap. Its door faces east. The signboard above it reads, “Shyam Sunder Hall”.

Dwarakamai in the 1920s

Each and every article present in the Dwarakamai fills the devotee’s heart with love, joy and peace. Baba spent 60 years here. His touch has filled every stone, brick and woodwork with life. This is the place where he fondly asked about each devotee’s welfare, and told stories. Like a fond mother he fed the devotees sweets. Sometimes he cut fruits into small pieces and put small morsels into their mouth.

shirdi sai baba Dwarakamyi Entrance
rare photo of sree Dwarakamai

In the place that he sat there was a hug portrait painted by Shamrao R Jaykar that faces the south. Now a copy of that portrait is there, and the original portrait is kept on the first floor of the Museum inside temple complex. This masterpiece is so much famous that it’s often referred to as the Dwarakamai Mai Baba Photograph. Below this portrait was a Chappi (a wet cloth that is wound around the end of the Chillim) and a Chillim. A set of marble Padukas were installed directly in front of the portrait for the devotees to Namaskar. The Nimbar was garlanded daily and draped with a beautiful shawl. Next to it were the three ever burning lamps. The lamps are still there. There were two Grinding Mills next to the lamps. Baba used the Bigger Grinding Mill when he ground wheat to drive away the cholera epidemic that had spread widely in Shirdi village. He used the smaller one to grind pulses, and spices when he wanted to do Annadaan. Beside the lamps was, and still is, a sack filled with wheat.

To the left, in the alcove was the clay Maath (water pot). In the corner near the math were a stack of Chillims that are now in the museum. Next to these were Baba’s Bhiksha utensils, like the Tumrel and Kolamba. The Tumrels are now kept in the museum. In front was the open Dhuni Mai. Then a small wall was erected around it and the Dhuni Mai was enclosed. In a cupboard next to the Dhuni Mai heaps of Baba’s Kafnis were neatly folded and stored. Now, Baba’s Kafni is hung in the museum. (Refer “Shiladhi” by Dr.Keshav B Gavankar).

At present the cupboard is used to store Baba’s Alankar items like Chandan, Ashtagandh and Kumkum. In the cupboard on the left, the articles that he needs for the night are stored. These articles are the Mosquito Net, the Copper Kalasha for water, and a Phool Patra (this is a flat bottomed, copper tumbler that is kept over the mouth of the Kalasha) and the Kerosene Oil Lantern.

In 1959 the Shirdi Saibaba Sansthan made some more renovations. In 1998 the Sansthan redid the Dhuni Mai, and laid heat resistant bricks at the base. They also made a Chimney. While this work was going on for a few days, the Jyot (Fire) was maintained in a small, temporary Dhuni Mai.

The door number of Dwarakamai Masjid allotted by Shirdi Municipal Corporation is 778. This can be seen on the left side of the wall present next to the main entrance of Dwarakamai.

THE BELL

This huge brass bell tied above, and to the left of the entrance of Dwarakamai pavilion was tied by Baba. It is not the original bell and has been changed many times. It is rung only three times a day, at 4.00 AM, 11.30 AM and 8.30 PM. It is rung by the Pujari of Dwarakamai, calling the devotees for Arati. If it is rung untimely, it signals an untoward incident has taken place somewhere in the village. The people will assemble in the pavilion, and then go to the place of the calamity and set it right. This practice is still going on; hence its gong is tied to the grill.

bell in Dwarakamai

Mention is made in Sai Satcharitra Ch.XIX. When Baba sent Hemadpanth (Dhabolkar) to Shyama's house to get Rs.15/- Dakshina, and sit and chit chat with him, Shyama told him the story of Radhabai Deshmukh, and the two paise of Dakshina meaning “Sraddha and Saburi”. Just as Shyama finished the story, the bell of the Masjid started to ring proclaiming that the noon worship and the Arati had begun and both hurried to the Masjid for the noon Arati.

THE FLAGS (NISHANS) OF THE DWARAKA MAI

Gopal Rao Gund was devoted to Baba. He did not have any children, but with Baba’s blessings a son was born to him. He felt that an annual Yatra (fair) should be held in Shirdi. He told the prominent devotees of Shirdi, like Tatya Kote, Dada Patil and Shyama about it. They all liked the idea very much and everyone started making preparations for it. However the Kulkarni (the Revenue Officer) opposed it. Hence the District Collector did not grant them permission to hold the fair. But they single mindedly pursued it, and finally got permission to hold the fair.

They chose the festival of Ramanavami to hold the fair. Tatya Kote Patil supervised all the arrangements. Gopal Rao Gund who started the Urs (Ramanavami celebrations) in Shirdi, asked his friend Damu Anna Rasne to supply a flag for the occasion. He also induced Nana Saheb Nimonkar to supply another embroidered flag. Both these flags were taken in procession, through the village to the accompaniment of musical instruments. Then these flags were fixed atop the roof of Dwarakamai. (Ref. ESS, Ch. VI).

Even today, this tradition is still being carried out by their descendants. The great grandson of Damu Anna Rasne, Pradeep Rasne brings an ochre coloured flag. He along with his family comes from Ahmednagar. While the great grandson of Nana Sahib Nimonkar, Chandrakant Deshpande Nimonkar brings a green coloured flag from Pune.

flags on Dwarakamayi

Even now the flags brought by the descendants of Damu Anna and Nimonkar are first placed on the Samadhi. Arati is performed, then taken to the home of Tukaram by the Sansthan. Again Arati is done, the flags are hoisted on the staff (pole) prepared by the descendants of the three brothers. Then with great joy and ceremony it is taken in procession throughout the village and hoisted on the roof of the Dwarakamai (Ref. Shri Sai Baba of Shirdi by Late Rao Bahadur Moreshwar W Pradhan).

The gheru flags on the southern wall of Dwarakamai are provided by the Sansthan. The significance of the Flags or Dhwaja or Nishan

The hosting of Flags is a common feature in all Hindu Temples. The Dhwaja or Flag are made of cloth and are hoisted atop temples, taken by Padayatris to holy places like Phandarpur and Shirdi. The temple or place of worship is considered as the palace of deity. He is the emperor of emperors and to honour him the flags are hoisted. Flags denote the area of territory of a particular ruler or a country. Similarly, the flags of the Dwarakamai Mai indicate the place of the Parabramha Shri Samartha Sadguru Shirdi Saibaba.

THE SMALL RED PILLAR:

The small red pillar is in front of the Chulli. Baba used to sit in front of the Chulli while cooking, and rested his back against this pillar. Whenever Baba went out of the Sanctum Sanctorum, he did Pradakshina to this pillar, and also when he returned. Pradakshina is done of a temple, or a sacred book or a holy tree. A devotee can do the same and get the benefit from this sacred pillar.

The unique feature of this pillar is that if anyone who has pain in the back or joints, leans against it, the pain abates. Many a devotee can be seen leaning against it. Some devotees read the Shri Sai Satcharitra, others sing the Aarti leaning against it. Others meditate close to it.
piller on Dwarakamayi
Nana Sahib Dengle was an ardent devotee of Saibaba. Once he wanted to do formal worship to Baba. So he came with all the puja materials and sought Baba’s permission. But, Baba refused and asked him to do the ritual to this pillar. Every morning the Pujari of Dwarakamai applies Asthagandh ( a mixture of sandal wood powder and saffron powder) to this pillar.

Now a grill enclosure has been built around it for its preservation.

THREE STEPS IN FRONT OF THE PILLAR

These three steps on the southern side of the Dwarakamai, were used by Baba to go out and come into the Sanctum Sanctorum. Devotees are requested to offer namaskar to the above steps as Baba used them. The significance of the three steps of the Dwarakamai Mai: The three steps represent the three Gunas. These trigunas refer to three fundamental components of Prakriti or Maya. This is the basic matrix of which this universe is created. These trigunas are Satva, Rajas and Tamas. These gunas are not qualities or attributes, but they are fundamental subtle elements which constitute Prakriti, like the cords of a rope. They bind the jeevatma to the body.
three steps in Dwarakamayi
Satva increases when the other two decrease. It is characterized by right knowledge, purity, happiness, and righteous actions, etc. Thus after death, they take us to higher worlds.

Rajas, when it increase the other two are low. It provides a thirst for selfish actions, anger, greed, lust, involvement, suffering, and egoism. After death it brings the Jeeva back to earth.

Tamas increases when the other two are low. It is characterized by ignorance, dullness, sloth and sin. After death the jeeva goes to the lower worlds.

To reach the Parabrahma one has to be gunatita. This is possible by doing sadhana, under the tutelage of the Sadguru. But for his grace this is next to impossible. Therefore, one has to rise above the trigunas to establish the pure Satva or “Self”. This can be accomplished by treating the pair of opposites with equanimity, by remaining unconcerned about losses or gains etc. i.e., by remaining calmly aloof, and above all being totally surrendered to him.

Thereby, one by climbing the three steps of the Dwarakamai Mai will reach the state of attributeless Parabrahma.

PADUKAS IN FRONT OF CHARIOT ROOM

Every morning Baba stood here leaning against the wall, while He looked at the sun. In remembrance of this, two sets of Padukas; (1) small Padukas are on the southern wall. This is where Baba placed His hand while leaning against the wall; and (2) just below the small Padukas, is a small shrine enclosing a bigger set of Padukas. This is the site of Baba's holy charan (sacred feet).

Daily worship is done by the Pujari of Dwarakamai with ashtagandh.
Shirdi Sai baba padukas in Dwarakamayi

THE CHULLI

The Chulli is a semicircular earthen hearth or oven. Small faggots of wood are placed in its cavity and lit, while the Handi or Utensil is placed on top of the rim. This Chulli is directly in front of the red pillar, in the Sabhamandap.

The Shastras prescribe charity for all the woes of the Kali Yuga. Of all forms of charity, Anna Daan is the highest, as every one feels the pangs of hunger. As Baba took a Saguna Roopa, he also did Anna Daan. Whenever Baba wanted to do Anna Daan He used this Chulli for preparing the food, and the devotees joyfully ate the Prasad. There were two copper Handies, a smaller one could feed 50 people. The other could feed a hundred people to satiation with some food remaining.

chulli in Dwarakamayi

When Baba decided to cook He was very meticulous about the salt, condiments, garnishing and other ingredients. He would go to the grocer, and the market place, and buy exactly what was required and paid in cash. He himself ground the wheat, pulses or jowari on the quern, and then prepared the food.

Baba would often prepare meatha chawal, mutton pulav (spicy rice with bits of mutton in it), varan (soup like lentil or dal) with wheat dumplings or Moong daal dumplings and ambli. Often times instead of a ladle He would pull up the sleeve of His Kafni and churn the contents with his bare hands. Yet there was no trace of burns or scalding on His hands.

After the food was cooked to his satisfaction He would carry it to the Masjid (sanctum sanctorum) of Dwarakamai. The Maulavi would offer Fatiah or prayers, to the food with proper ritual. Then Baba would send the Prasad to homes of Mahalsapathi and Tathya. The remaining food, Baba served the people assembled there to their utmost satisfaction. "Have some more, take some more" He lovingly said (ESS, Ch.XXXVIII).

These Quern (hand mill) and the handies used by Baba, are now kept in the Museum.

THE CHARIOT (RATH) ROOM

This room is on the left side, of the main entrance to Dwarakamai. The old chariot used to be kept in it. This chariot was presented to Baba by Avasthi and Rege. The first procession was taken on Gurupurnima of 1918. The devotees entreated Baba for permission and Baba reluctantly agreed to the procession. But Baba never sat in this chariot.

Previously, Sivanesan Swamiji , an ardent devotee of Baba, who with his tireless efforts cleaned and beautified the Dwarakamai, was allotted this room by the Sansthan and he stayed in this room for many years. Later this room was used to store containers of hot Udi before it was sieved. The chariot was then taken and kept in the extension of the Samadhi Mandir. Now, the right wall has small trap doors so the Udi is shoveled directly into trays from the Dhuni Maa.

chariot in Dwarakamayi

The rest of the room is used to store sacks of Gowri (Cow Dug Cakes) and logs of wood to feed the Dhuni Maa. The Chariot was kept for sometime in the extension of the Samadhi Mandir. After the Museum was built this only original rath which is from Baba’s time has been housed in the hall on the ground floor of the Museum.

THE DHUNI MAA

The everlasting Dhuni lit by Baba Himself more than 150 years ago, is still burning. The word 'Dhuni' possibly comes from the root word 'Dhun' meaning 'to kindle or waft'. Even during the cholera epidemic, when the Panchayats ordained that no fuel cart should be allowed to come in the village, Baba went to the fuel cart and bought wood for his Dhuni. Baba went at regular intervals to the forest nearby and carried huge logs of wood for his Dhuni. The smoke and soot that emitted from the Dhuni Maa and touched or covered the devotees seated there was akin to Bhasma Snan. Like an Agnihotri, keeping his sacred fire alive, throughout his life Baba kept this Dhuni ever burning all day and night (Ref. ESS, XXIII).

Dhuni Maa in Dwarakamayi
Dhuni Maa in Dwarakamayi

When Baba slept in the Chavadi, Radhakrishna Aai cleaned, and whitewashed the Masjid. She had to take out all the things including the Dhuni and replace it as it was (Ref. ESS, Ch. VI).

At first Baba practiced medicine and became famous as a Hakim. Later He stopped giving medicines, but gave Udi instead.

Baba's all omnipresence and mercy saved the blacksmith's child from a horrible death in the furnace. On Shyama's concern, and questioning Baba replied "When the child slipped into the furnace, I immediately thrust my hand and saved the child. I do not mind my arm being burnt, but I ain glad that the life of the child is saved". What intense mercy and love for His Bhaktas! This incident bestowed Baba's favour on Bhagoji Shinde, who daily massaged and bandaged it till Baba's Mahasamadhi (Ref. ESS, Ch. VII).

Every morning Baba sat in front of this Dhuni. He seemed to be offering into the Dhuni oblations of the ego, desires, and all thoughts. 'Allah Mallik', 'Allah Mallik' He softly said (Ref. ESS, Ch.V).

Sitting by the Dhuni Baba often spoke of the distant places He went to overnight and what He had done. Those who slept by His side the whole night at the Dwarakamai knew that His physical body was in Shirdi. But these statements were occasionally verified and found to be true by Prof. Narke and also others.

The Dhuni is 7’ long and 5’2’’ wide. Devotees offer wood, gowri, ghee, nav dhanya and five types of wood to this sacred Dhuni. In the early days, the Dhuni Puja was done by the individual devotee. But, now with the heavy turnout of devotees from all over the world to Shirdi, the Dhuni puja cannot be done by the individual devotees as the Dhuni is boarded with a mesh. This is a precaution taken by the Sansthan in order to preserve Dhuni Maa’s sanctity, as devotees used to put the loban along with the plastic wrapper, and other undesirable articles to the sacred fire. A huge drum is placed near the Dhuni to enable devotees to place their offerings in it and it is later offered to the Dhuni by the priest.

The Dhuni Puja is done daily at about 11 a.m. by the Sansthan. Eleven coconuts, wood, gowri are offered to Dhuni Maa at this time. The priest from the Samadhi Mandir does Vaishva Deva (Agni) Puja with Anna Ahuti (cooked rice mixed with ghee), as was done during Baba’s time by Sagun Meru Naik upon Baba's instructions.

In our daily lives we kill a lot of insects, flies and mosquitoes, thus accumulating a lot of sins. To get ablution from these sins we should feed, the agni, the ants with sugar, feed the dog, the crow and the cow. It is often impossible to do this and hence Baba in his mercy did this for us. The Sansthan is doing it for us every day by performing the Vaishva Deva Puja.

THE SMALL SILVER PADUKAS IN FRONT OF DHUNI MAA

These small silver Padukas are in the North West corner, and in front of the Dhuni Maa. It is the sacred place where Baba sat every morning before 5.00 AM for about an hour. This hour Baba spent in solitude. At that time other devotees were not allowed to approach Baba, except for the Sevkaries who quietly came and swept the Dwarakamai. Bhagoji Shinde was the first devotee to go to Baba and massage his burnt hand.

Saibaba Chavadi shirdi

THE PUJA PILLAR

Baba sat near the pillar, which is adjacent to the small Silver Padukas. Baba always sat straight and did not rest his back against the pillar. Baba was very fond of the pillar and asked many devotees to perform Puja to it. The details are as follows:

In the year 1908, Tatya Saheb Nulkar, who was a sub judge in Pandharpur came to stay in Shirdi. Baba asked him to stay in the Chavadi.

One day, in the morning Baba told Shama, “Ask Mhatara (old man) to perform Puja to the pillar”. Shama went and told Nulkar (Mhatara) exactly what Baba had said. Both of them discussed the reason for this, but could not come up with an answer. At last they consulted the almanac, and found that it was Vyas Purnima or Guru Purnima. But Baba had asked him to perform puja to the pillar, and not to him. Nonetheless they were happy that at least he had allowed puja to be performed in the Dwaraka Mai. Nulkar was performing puja to the pillar when Shama turned up. Baba said, “Why is he performing puja all by himself? Why can’t you too perform the puja?”. Shama replied “I will not perform puja to this pillar. But if you will allow me to perform pooja to you, I will gladly do so. I will only worship you and not this or any other pillar”. After a lot of debate and discussion, Baba finally agreed.

Dada Kelkar was aware that it was Guru Purnima, so he sent for Tatya who had gone to his farm. Both of them went with puja materials, and performed Guru Puja. The rest of the devotees present in Dwaraka Mai followed suite. They offered fruits, dakshina and vastra (dhotis) to their Guru. The dhoti was of no use to Baba but they got the opportunity to do Guru Puja that day and they hoped that it would continue in the future.

Thus the festival of Guru Purnima started, and now it is celebrated as a three day function by the Sansthan. On the first day there is Akhand Parayan, the second day is the main festival and it concludes on the third day with Gopal Kaala. Guru Purnima is celebrated in the Ashada Masa (June-July). The meaning of “Baba Sitting in Front of Dhuni Maa” There is also an original photograph of Baba sitting in front of Dhuni Maa taken during Baba’s period.

Baba Sitting in Front of Dhuni Maa

This pose possibly represents the “inward journey” that we have to take to reach “Baba”, and be one with him. This journey started with the first step of withdrawing our Karmendriyaas totally from this mundane life. This is represented by the left leg which is not seen.

Control the Jnanendriyaas, which are to act over the Karmendriyaas which is represented by the right leg over the left leg.

This is achieved by following the messages heard or insight derived from this inward journey. This is represented by the closed fist of the right hand which is kept next to the ear. An invisible Antakarna Chatushtaya with adhimanas as support is represented by the right hand kept next to the right ear.

The left hand over the right leg represents surrendering to him in totality. We have to surrender all of the following, the three Shariras, the trigunas, the arishadvargas, the 5 pranas, and the 5 koshas. This is achieved by following the Jnana Marga, Bhakti Marga, Karma Marga or the blend of these three.

THE KOLAMBA

This Kolamba is an earthen container which was used by Baba to mix the food received by Bhiksha.

Baba used to take Biksha from five blessed houses daily. He called out "Oh. Lassie give me a piece of bread". He begged three to four times a day till noon, but His Biksha was erratic and irregular (Ref. ESS, Ch.VIII). This mixture known as Kala would then be distributed to numerous devotees, birds, cats and dogs and Baba did not drive them away. Baba himself ate very little of the remaining food. This practice of Biksha went on till His Mahasamadhi. If He could not go He deputed someone else like Vamanrao Patel or G.G. Narke.

THE KOLAMBA

The significance of the Kolamba lies in the fact that it is made of clay and thus may break at any time. Just as the human body is transient and death may strike at any moment the body also acts as a container to mix the various acts of life. These actions and their consequences are akin to the food got by begging from our own doings. The taste of the food may be sweet (happiness) or sour (sorrow). Baba by mixing the food is teaching us to receive the happenings in our lives with equanimity.

The food will taste sweet, sour or bitter as long as it is in contact with the tongue. Once it crosses the tongue no taste is experienced, as there are no separate compartments in the digestive system. For the digestive system different types of food are the same for it to conduct its function.

The tongue is the most important organ of our body. We do all kinds of deeds just to fill its needs not only for ourselves but for our generations to come. Everyone is busy trying to amass wealth, when we are not sure of our very own existence, thus becoming a slave to passions, thereby hiding the real “self”.

Baba is teaching us not to become a slave of the tongue. Having the tongue under our control, we can march towards the supreme.

The Pujari from Samadhi Mandir comes and offers Bhog to Baba twice a day, and leaves some Prasad in this Kolamba for the devotees to share. Various devotees offering Prasad to Baba offer it to Dhuni Maa and leave some in this Kolamba.

THE MAATH OR WATER POT

The Maath or Water Pot is an earthen pot in which Baba stored water. Baba himself used to carry water from the well behind the Samadhi Mandir and fill this pot. This Maath or Water Pot is placed on a stand made of coiled cloth next to the Kolamba adjacent to the southern wall of the Dwarakamai. The Maath or Water Pot kept in the Dwaraka Mai has been changed numerous times. However, the stand (coiled cloth) is in the museum. Devotees used the water as “Tirth” to get relief from their ailments. Now-a-days this pot is being filled by the Pujari of the Dwarakamai.

THE MAATH OR WATER POT

THE MAGICAL CHILLIM (CLAY PIPE)

The Magical Chillim was Baba’s constant companion during his sojourn on earth. Blessed was the potter who made them, and blessed was the clay that touched Baba’s hands and lips.

On the right side of the Maath or Water Pot in the corner were a stack of Chillims’ that Baba had smoked. And next to them in another heap were new and unused Chillims. Till the year 1930, the Chillims were kept this way. Now, the unused new Chillims are kept in the Museum in Dixit Wada.

Chandbhai Patil was a truly blessed soul, who got the first taste of Baba’s Chillim. The bondage between them was great. Baba after smoking and sharing his Chillim actually went and stayed with Chandbhai. He was instrumental in brining Baba back to Shirdi, along with his marriage party.

THE MAGICAL CHILLIM (CLAY PIPE)

Baba bestowed his grace on many a devotee by allowing them to smoke his Chillim. The most amazing story is of Balaram Dhurandar (Shri Sai Satcharitra, Chapter 51). He was troubled by bouts of cough and had asthma for six years. On his visit to Shirdi he went to the Dwaraka Mai one afternoon, and with great humility started pressing Baba’s feet. Baba handed him his Chillim to smoke. Balaram accepted it as Prasad, and took a puff. The very thought of smoking was painful and alien to him. He had utmost faith in Baba, so he smoked a while and humbly returned the Chillim to Baba.

Lo! His asthma vanished and he was relieved of the tightness in his chest. He wasn’t tormented by breathlessness or coughing bouts thereafter. However, on the day that Baba took Mahasamadhi his asthma was triggered and he coughed all day. That day and only that day did he cough, and wasn’t bothered by it again. How could he ever forget the miracle of the clay pipe? Ganesh S Khaparde was a renowned, wealthy lawyer from Amaravati. He was a loyal aid of Lokamanya Tilak, who was serving a six-year sentence in Burma. Baba kept Khaparde in Shirdi and rescued him from the clutches of the British, who were waiting for a chance to prosecute him for treason and sedition.

Khaparde was a spiritual man, well versed in Sanskrit, the Shastras and the Puranas. Time and again during the Arati Baba made mystic signs and offered his Chillim, when he could unravel the answers. At times the Chillim calmed his restless mind and gave him reassurance. On 22nd January 1912 Khaparde writes, “During the course of worship he (Baba) put two flowers in his nostrils, and two others between his ears and head. I thought this was his instruction, and when I interpreted it in my mind, he offered his Chillim to me and thus confirmed it”.

Krishnaji Bhishma, the author of Sai Sagunopasana (Arati Book), was disgusted by the thought of devotees drinking Paad Tirth of a Muslim Sai Baba. He was horrified to see Brahmin devotees puff the Chillim after Baba had smoked it, and mentally he resolved not to do both. One day Baba narrated a story to him. It was the same dream vision that he had had earlier. While narrating the story Baba usually passed his Chillim to Bhishma. He took a puff and was thrown into bliss and ecstasy, and changed for life. At that moment, he became an ardent devotee.

Bhagoji Shinde and Mahalsapati smoked the Chillim with Baba every morning. Now the Chillim is offered to Baba’s photograph in the Chavadi during Adkar’s Arati Sai Baba Soukhya Datara Jeeva.

THE HOOKS ON THE CEILING

These hooks are on the ceiling in front of the Nimbar. Nana Saheb Dengle brought a wooden plank of about 8” wide and 5' in length and gave it to Baba for sleeping. He thought that Baba could sleep on it instead of sleeping on the floor.

Baba however tied this plank with old rags to the hooks on the ceiling like a swing. After lighting four Panthis (earthen lamps), he placed them in each corner of the plank. Baba The Yogi Raj' then slept on this plank. One could see him either sitting there with his head bent, or sleeping on the plank. Many people wondered how he got up and down from this plank, and tried to watch this leela, but were not successful. Then one day Baba broke the plank. This leela is described in detail in the Shri Sai Satcharitra Chapter 10.

THE HOOKS ON THE CEILING

Dasganu says, "The plank hung so close to the ceiling that no one could sit upright. One could only sit on it bending one's body like an arch. Yet this great Yogi slept on it"! (Refer Bhakta Leelamrita, Chapter 31).

"Meditate always on My formless nature, which is knowledge incarnate, consciousness, and bliss. If you can not do this, meditate on My Form from top to toe, as you see here night and day " said Baba to Dhabolkar (Ref. ESS. Ch. XVII). Although Baba was surrounded by countless devotees, Shyama and Mahalsapathi being His constant companions, yet none of them saw Baba get up or get down the 'swing bed'.

"You thought, that I was in Shirdi, with a body composed of the five elements and 3 1/2 cubics in length, and not outside of it. Now you see and determine for yourself whether the person you see here now, is the same you saw at Shirdi” said Baba to Mankar at Machindragada (Satara district) (Ref. ESS, CH. XXXI).

"I require no door to enter, I have no form or any extension, I live everywhere, I carry on as the wirepuller, alter the actions of the men who trust Me and merge in Me" said Baba to Megha.

Baba is Parabrahma. One who is without birth, body, age and death. He was, is and will be with us eternally. When that being the case, how could they see Him in the “Anima or the formless state?”

Devotees who visit Dwaraka Mai today look with wonderment at the ceiling in front of the "Nimbar" at these hooks.

THE NIMBAR OR ALLAH MIA CHE JAGHA

Upon ascending the central steps (3 steps) of the Dwarakamai Sanctum Sanctorum, the Nimbar is directly in front. The Nimbar or Allah Mia Che Jagha (the place of Allah Mia) is the arched structure in the wall. It is in the western wall of the Dwarakamai next to the ever burning lamps. It is garlanded daily, and often is venerated with a shawl.

In a Masjid the Nimbar is said to represent the Darga of Mecca. The devout Muslims do Namaz in front of it. Mention is made of this Nimbar in several places in the Shri Sai Satcharitra. The Urs started in 1897 and during that yatra (fair), the “Sandal Procession” also took place. This procession is held in honor of great Muslim saints. Chandan paste and scrapings are put in a Thali and carried around the village in procession. After returning to the Masjid the chandan is pasted with the hands on this Nimbar. This Sandal procession was started by Amir Shakkar Dalal of Korhla. Now the descendants of Abdul Baba carry on this tradition. (Refer Shri Sai Satchritra Chapter 6).

THE NIMBAR OR ALLAH MIA CHE JAGHA

After the Noon Arati the devotees went home. Baba then went inside, and sat behind the curtain, with His back to this Nimbar for his meal. There were two rows of devotees one on each side. After all the Naivedya was mixed together (kaala) and placed before Baba, he consecrated it and offered it to god and everybody dined to their hearts' content. (Refer Shri Sai Satcharitra Chapter 38).

THE EVER BURNING LAMPS

Baba was very fond of lighted Divas (earthen lamps). From the beginning of his stay in the Dwarakamai, Baba lit divas daily. And they burned perpetually. Baba celebrated Diwali with numerous lamps. He tore thin strips of cloth and twisted them and used them as wicks. Often he tore his old Kafni into thin strips and used it as wicks.

In Shri Sai Satcharitra Chapter 5, the leela of his lighting the lamps with water is given. One day the grocers refused to give him oil. Unperturbed He returned to the Dwarakamai. He took the empty tumbler that had a smidgen of oil in it. He filled it with water and drank it. Consecrated water and a few drops of oil and offered it to God, and then lit the lamps. Lo! They burned throughout the night.

The Jyoth has been burning perpetually since then. When the brass lamps are cleaned the wicks are temporarily placed in another lamp. The oil dripping from these lamps have healing properties. Numerous devotees have used it for Arthritis, Migraine, and other ailments with wonderful results.

THE JAATH OR QUERN (HAND MILL)

In the Shri Sai Satchritra, Chapter 1 the wonderful leela of Baba grinding the wheat is described. During the year 1910, One day in the early morning, Baba sat down at the Quern to grind wheat. Four village women saw this; they took the peg of the quern from his hand and started grinding the wheat. While doing this they thought “Baba has no kith or kin and subsists on Bhiksha. So he will give us the flour”. After all the wheat was ground, they divided the wheat into four portions for themselves. Baba then used very foul and abusive language. He said, “Phukat Khau Randa” (free looting prostitute) and told them to take the flour and throw it on the village boundary. At that time, Cholera was raging through out the village. Seven people had already succumbed to the epidemic. This was Baba’s remedy to stop the epidemic. Since then, Cholera has not occurred in Shirdi, although neighboring villages are often afflicted. What was the relationship between Cholera and wheat flour?

THE JAATH OR QUERN (HAND MILL)

Cholera is called Mahamaari or the great killer. Mahamaari means sure death every time it strikes. There is no greater fear than the fear of death. Birth is followed by death at sometime for sure. One who has conquered the fear of death is immortal. So if one wants to conquer the cycle of birth and death, then one has to be liberated and free.

If the ultimate goal is liberation then why is one bound? The fact is that human beings are bound by Karma (actions) and Maya. In fact karma and maya are inseparably interlinked. They are the two facets of life.

The significance of Quern or Hand Mill

Baba lived in Shirdi for 60 years and he ground the mental, physical afflictions and the miseries of innumerable devotees. In the Quern, lower stone represents Karma and upper stone represents Bhakti, and the handle of the Quern represents Jnana (knowledge) or self realization.

Self realization is not possible unless there is the prior act of grinding of all our impulses, desires, sins, trigunas and ego. Besides the philosophical significance and grinding the cholera germs Baba daily ground sins, mental and physical afflictions and miseries of his innumerable devotees and he is still continuing to do so.

Once Kabir saw a woman grinding corn and said, “I am weeping because I feel the agony of being crushed in this wheel of worldly existence, like the corn”. His guru Nipathiranjana reassured him saying, “Do not be afraid, but hold tightly the handle of knowledge of the hand mill, and do not wander far away. Turn inward to the centre and you are sure to be saved”. (Refer Shri Sai Satcharitra, Chapter 1)

Devotees can see this hand mill in the Dwarakamai entreating Baba to grind their sins. Another hand mill which Baba used for cooking is kept in the Museum.

THE SACK OF WHEAT

During Baba’s sojourn in Shirdi, this sack of wheat was kept resting against the wall of the Dwarakamai. Now this sack of wheat is kept in a glass small cupboard, with a glass door next to the hand mill. Balaji Patil Nevaskar rendered selfless seva to Baba, by sweeping and cleaning the streets daily that Baba trod on.

THE SACK OF WHEAT

Every year when there was a harvest in his field he would bring the whole quantity of wheat to Baba and maintain his family on whatever Baba gave him. Whether the amount of wheat was large or small did not matter to him as he believed that it belonged to Baba. Baba used to eat Chapattis made out of this wheat. (Refer Shri Sai Satcharitra, Chapter 35). This practice continued till he died. After him, his son also continued the same tradition. The wheat bag used to be replaced on every Ramanavami day by his family. Now the Sansthan has continued the tradition and will replace the old wheat bag with the new one. The old wheat bag is sent to Saibaba Prasadalaya.

THE PORTRAIT OF SAIBABA IN FRONT OF DHUNI MAA (DWARAKAMAI POSE)

This portrait is an oil painting by the famous artist Shyamrao Ramachandra Jaikar. Moreshwar Pradhan had brought Jaikar to Shirdi and requested him to make two portraits of Baba. After Jaikar met Baba, he on his own accord made more than two paintings, at Baba's bidding, when Baba said "Aur Banao Jyada Banao, main guttigulli mein rahnewalla hoon".

THE PORTRAIT OF SAIBABA IN FRONT OF DHUNI MAA (DWARAKAMAI POSE)

This portrait was presented to the Sansthan after Baba’s Mahasamadhi. It was installed in the very place where Baba sat. As the portrait was created with Baba’s consent it has this incredible feature that when a devotee looks at it with love and devotion, he gets the “living experience” of Baba in it.

Many a devotee has had unimaginable, and innumerable Leelas from this painting.

The devotees could not leave Shirdi without Baba's permission. When they wanted to leave they came to Baba in the Dwarakamai and sought his permission. Baba gave them Udi and his blessings and they had a safe journey. Even today devotees go to this portrait, prostrate asking for His permission and then take the Udi and leave thus having a successful and safe journey.

At present, the original painting done by Shyamrao Ramachandra Jaikar is kept in the Museum. The one that is seen now in Dwarakamai is a copy of the original painting.

This famous and beautiful portrait is a masterpiece and is widely known as “The Dwarakamai Baba Pose”.

Every night the priest places a Kalasha filled with water, and a kerosene oil lantern that is lit. The portrait is covered with a mosquito net. It is believed that when a human being sleeps the atman leaves the body and travels about here and there. Finally, it comes back to the body; water is binding force that helps it to identify the proper body. The light from the lantern does the same.

The Possible Meaning of the Dwarakamai Pose

Baba is sitting next to the railing, and his silhouette is in the form of a triangle with the apex at his head with the Bilva leaf on it. It signifies Mount Meru the above of mother Parvati. So he is the mother calling his children (us) to come and take refuge in him. The Kakad Arati says, “Tu Shanti Kshamecha Meru Ho. Tu Bhavarnaviche Taaru Guruvara (You are the mountain Meru of peace and forgiveness. You are the bark that ferries us across this mundane existence)”.

By this posture Baba is instructing us to totally surrender at his lotus feet. This is done by offering the Pancha Pranas, Arishadvargas, Trigunas, Karmendriyas and Jnanendriyas represented by the five fingers of the left hand. Manas, Budhi and Chitta are represented by the three fingers of the right hand that are not visible. The index finger is pointing down representing Aham (Pride and Ego). The thumb represents the Sadguru or Parabrahma which is turned in pointing to himself. It is the Sadguru or Parabrahma who can cleanse the Jeevatma of all impurities and undesirable traits.

This is total surrender to his lotus feet. He is not only assuring us but also promising us (represented by his firmly placed right foot) that he will take us on his lap, represented by his left foot. Thus, this pose is an assurance that he is prepared to take us on his lap like a mother, provided we surrender to him in toto.

THE SILVER COVERED PADUKAS IN FRONT OF BABA'S PORTRAIT

In front of the portrait painted by Shyamrao Ramachandra Jaikar, is a pair of silver covered Padukas. They were mounted in a granite platform about 3” above the floor. After Baba's Mahasamadhi, Shama was staying in the Dixit Wada. The Sansthan was formed and Shama was asked to pay rent. Shama however, left Dixit Wada and took along with him Baba's Padukas and Photograph to his house. The Sansthan requested Shama to return them but he refused at first. Then S.B. Dhumal went to his house with a big procession and Shama handed over all the articles.

THE SILVER COVERED PADUKAS IN FRONT OF BABA'S PORTRAIT

These Padukas are worshipped daily in the morning by the Pujari of the Dwarakamai and decorated with ashtagandh. The Pujari of Samadhi Mandir between comes to the Dwarakamai between 11.30 and 12.00 noon to perform Vaishva Deva Puja. He cleans Baba’s photograph and the padukas and applies fresh ashtagandh. Now these padukas are installed on a pedestal about 3’ high and are covered with gold foil. Devotees offer their “Sashtang Namaskar” to these holy Padukas.

THE KATHADA (RAILING) ON WHICH BABA RESTED HIS HAND

This is the railing on which Baba rested his left hand. Baba sat near the wall of the Masjid facing south (towards Dhuni) but he did not lean against it. He always sat upright.

In the north east corner Baba sat in the direction of Ishaanya. His leg outstretched, showing his blessings on the devotees. There are eight directions or quarters in this world, each, presided and protected by a deity or Dikpalaka. Baba sat in the north east corner which is protected by Ishaana whose vehicle is an Ox. This symbolizes that each individual goes a certain direction, or follows a certain path that makes or mars his life, according to his vasans. It is lord Ishaana who guides the world. He will come riding on the Ox or Vrishabha to exhaust the accumulated vasanas of the jeevas. Thus, Baba sitting in the North East direction guides the individual in the right direction. Therefore, any Puja starts with Ashta Digbhandana (the Eight Direction Bondage). Then the mind of the individual is arrested from taking any particular direction and he discovers his own true nature.

THE KATHADA (RAILING) ON WHICH BABA RESTED HIS HAND

Baba sat facing the south; he is Dakshinamoorthy. The south is the special domain of lord Yama. Yama means control; it can be self-control, as well as a limitation over ones’ capacity. The ever smiling, Guru, Saibaba symbolizes the fact that a man of realization has transcended time. That the Guru’s grace is being showered on the devotees who are caught in the net of Yama, the lord of death. The Guru leads the disciple to immortality.

This railing has been painted over and over again but if one lovingly rests one's forehead on the railing, one can feel a gentle depression where Baba probably rested His hand. Recently the Sansthan have placed a plastic cover over the whole railing.

Baba’s Asana

Dixit was concerned about Baba sitting on the cold floor. It got so cold in winter that it was impossible to stand on the tiles that he had laid. Baba sat on the floor for hours together. As Baba would not accept a cotton mattress, immediately he set out and made a mattress of sack cloth. This Baba did not object to. That evening after his rounds, Baba asked them to remove the mattress. So every evening Dixit would take the mattress to his Wada, and return with it early next morning. So the sack mattress became Baba’s Asana.

Baba usually sat on a piece of sack cloth but His bhaktas lovingly placed a Gaadi over it and bolsters for Him to rest. Baba usually sat with His legs outstretched and His left hand rested on this railing. (Refer Sai Leela Magazine, Margashirsha Shake 1857 year 12 (1936)).

THE UDI STAND

The Kathada (railing) is attached to a pillar and to this pillar the Udi stand or container was fixed. Udi, the sacred ash that came from Baba’s Dhuni Maa was plentiful and Baba gave a palm full of Udi to his devotees. This Udi is called as “Angara, Rakh, Bhasma or Vibhuti”. It is the gift of Dhuni Maa. That wonderful Dhuni Maa that Baba lit when he came to stay in the Dwarakamai.

The meaning of Udi is detachment based on discriminating knowledge. The literal meaning of Udi is 'to go'. Baba gave Udi to His devotees with blessings that they should go to a higher plane in their spiritual endeavor.

When Baba was in a cheerful mood he used to sing in a melodious voice merrily about the sacred Udi “Shri Rama has come. He has come during his wanderings. And he has brought bags full of Udi”. The Akhand Dhuni Maa is yielding abundant Udi even now and will continue to do so till the end of time. (Refer Shri Sai Satcharitra, Chapter 33).

THE UDI STAND

During the early days of his stay in Shirdi, Baba gave medicines to the sick people without accepting any payment from anybody. But after few years, he stopped dispensing medicines and started giving Udi instead.

Baba used to give Udi to the devotees after the Arati and also at the time of departure.

Udi has healing powers, during Baba's time it was used for scorpion sting, bubonic plague and the 'Jamner miracle,' just to mention a few. The power of the Udi is as potent as before, and is still curing the diseases and Karmic impediments. In the Shri Sai Satcharitra, Chapter 33 and 44, the leelas and greatness of the Udi is given beautifully.

Baba went into the forests around Shirdi and brought wood for the Dhuni Maa. Sometimes he went to forests far away, and brought huge logs of wood. This he did himself; there was always a stack of logs near the Dwarakamai. These logs he fed to his Dhuni, and the ash or Udi he applied to devotee’s forehead. Vibhuti means “all pervading” or omnipresent. Baba had a unique way of applying Udi. He often took the Udi between his thumb and forefinger and applied it exactly in the centre between the eyebrows. This spot is the Trikuti or the third eye. It is the house of Brahman. Brahman enables you to get self-realization or realize the true self. This spot is also where the Ajna Chakra is seated, when the kundalini is awakened. Baba pressed his thumb laden with Udi on this Ajna Chakra and then drew his thumb in an upward direction. Baba also used to refer to this spot as the 17th Kala.

In the Prashna Upanishad of Atharva Veda, 6th Chapter, a mention has been made about 16 attributes of a person known as “Shodasha Kala”. Though a Purusha is made up of 16 attributes he is perpetually searching for the truth and wants to realize the atman. He cannot achieve it as he is submerged in Maya. Only the Sadguru with his grace can show him the right path.

Baba by applying Bhasma or Udi on the Ajna Chakra, the centre of the principle of the mind, makes the Purusha understand that he is drowned in maya. And that this transient world will one day be reduced to ashes. Thus Baba is instructing us to treat Bhasma as a path leading to Vibhuti or the all pervading (Parabrahma). This can be accomplished through Dharana, i.e., fixing the mind on him; Dhyana (meditating on him) which results in Samadhi (super conscious experience).

In order to get released from the bondage of Maya, develop Samyama or control of the mind by applying Udi.

The word Bhasma means sacred ash, representing the transient nature of the universe. One day, all existing things will burn to ashes. The wise do not develop any attachment to them. The use of Bhasma on the body ought to remind us of the transient nature of the world, so we should contemplate on the permanent or the Parabrahma.

Devotees may apply this Udi daily and take it as Tirth which will eradicate their Karma, diseases, fulfill their wishes and help them in their spiritual path.

BABA'S BATHING STONE

This stone was prepared by Rambaji of Nasik. Hearing of Baba's Leelas he came to Shirdi in a mentally disordered condition. He used to drink Baba's bath water and used it on his body. By doing so he got rid of his mental disorder. As a reminiscence of this he gratefully prepared this stone and offered it to Baba to sit and have bath on it.

BABA'S BATHING STONE

This bathing stone was kept in the verandah of the Dwaraka Mai. After the Museum was opened the bathing stone been housed in the hall on the ground floor of the Museum.

THE THREE STEPS NEXT TO THE OTA OR PLATFORM

The three steps of Dwarakamai lead into the Sanctum Sanctorum. These 3 steps are now used to exit the Sanctum Sanctorum. Whenever Baba went for Bhiksha rounds or to Lendi Bagh and returned, he washed his feet and hands known as Upa Snan on these steps. Many devotees waited for this ritual to complete so that they could collect the water that flowed from his feet as Paada Teertha. This they drank and took home and distributed, for they knew that it would cure many physical and mental afflictions.

THE OTA OR PLATFORM WITH THE AGARBATTI STAND

There is an Agarbatti (incense stick) stand attached to the platform. This platform is on the right side of the main entrance of the Dwarakamai. It is about 8’ long and 3-1/2 ‘ wide and has a height of 2-1/2’. The devotees would offer incense sticks to Baba. Then light them and fix them on this stand.

THE OTA OR PLATFORM WITH THE AGARBATTI STAND

Baba often sat on this platform and distributed Udi after the Noon Arati. There is an original photograph of him sitting on this platform.

THE PALKI ROOM

This room is on the right side of the main entrance of Dwarakamai. Due to the efforts of Radhakrishna Mai, Shirdi was turned into a Sansthan. In 1912 a Palki, Rath, many silver utensils and pots were presented. Once this Palki was left outside and some of the silver ornaments were stolen. The distraught devotees ran to Baba and complained and Baba simply said "Why did the thieves not take away the whole Palki?". So Purandhare and Radhakrishna Aai decided to make a room for it. Purandhare dared to put up the rafters after making five to six holes in the wall of Dwarakamai for support and the Palki was kept there. This Palki was presented by Sadu Bhayya Nayak of Harda.

Baba never sat in the Palki, but his photo was placed on it. Every Thursday at 9.15 PM the Palki is brought in procession to Chavadi.

THE TORTOISE

This marble tortoise is in the center of the well. The black tiles surrounding it represent the four flights of steps leading to the bottom of the well. Numerous meanings are attached to this tortoise. (1) The tortoise is an 'avatar' of Vishnu (Kurma Avatar) (2) That one should enter the place of worship like the tortoise bowing one's head, in complete surrender. Leaving the ego outside just as the tortoise in a prostrate position; one should surrender everything to Baba; (3) But most importantly the tortoise is looking at Baba and if we follow her example and look towards Baba he will surely look after us (Eleven sayings of Baba).

THE TORTOISE

In Chapter 19 of Shri Sai Satcharitra Baba gives the analogy of the tortoise and says "Just as the mother tortoise feeds her young ones by her loving glances so was the way of my Guru. The mother tortoise is on this bank and her little ones are on the other bank. They are nurtured and reared just by her loving glances”.

This tortoise is worshipped with “asthagandh” before “Kakad Aarti” and after 11.30 AM before “Noon Arati”.

THE TULSI BRINDAVAN

Baba planted this Tulsi Brindavan outside the Masjid. After the outer pavilion was constructed, the devotees brought this Tulsi Brindavan inside and tended to it. It now stands in the North East Corner and is looked after by the Pujari of Dwarakamai. As it is under the roof of the Dwarakamai its nourishment is not up to the mark for lack of sunshine. Every year Tulsi Vivah is done on the 12th day of Diwali.

THE TULSI BRINDAVAN shirdi

The Mythology of Tulsi Vivaha

On Karthika Shukla Dwadashi which is the 12th day of the bright fortnight of the month of Karthika (October and November), which is also known as Uthana Dwadashi, the Tulsi Vivaha takes place.

Jalandhara was a powerful Asura, and was a threat to the Suras or Gods. The secret of his mighty power was his chaste and devout wife Brinda. The Gods requested Vishnu to save them; Vishnu impersonated Jalandhara and went to her. Brinda having lost her chastity, Jalandhara lost his power and met his end. When Brinda came to know of this she cursed Vishnu. Vishnu then repented and sat next to her on the funeral pyre of her husband.

THE TULSI BRINDAVAN shirdi

By Parvati’s grace the funeral pyre was converted into a beautiful garden. The garden was full of Tulsi, Amla (Indian Gooseberry) and Jaie (a type of fragrant Jasmine). Out of these the Tulsi plant is Brinda. Hence, the garden is known as Tulsi Brindavan.

Brinda who committed Sati became Rukmini, in her next reincarnation and married Krishna on Karthika Shulkla Dwadashi.

In Shirdi, Tulsi Vivaha is performed in the Dwaraka Mai on the 12th day of Diwali. The priests from the Samadhi Mandir come to the Dwarakamai to perform the marriage. The devotees can participate in the marriage. A new healthy Tulsi plant is brought and the old one is replaced. The plant is dressed like a bride in a small green saree. Small green bangles adorn the branches of the plant. Then the marriage takes place between Krishna and the Tulsi with due rituals.

After the marriage ceremony is completed, the devotees assembled there are given Bathasa, whole coriander and savouries that are made for the festival of Diwali. It is a very joyous occasion.

THE IDOL OF SHYAM KARAN – THE HORSE

Kasam, a horse merchant, was distraught because his mare had no issue for a very long time. He vowed to Baba that if his mare had a foal, he would offer the first born to Baba. By Baba's grace the mare did have a series of issues. So he came and presented Baba with the first born. Baba called the horse “Shyam Karan”as his body was brown while his ears were black.

The horse loved Baba and Baba reciprocated. The trainer Khajgiwalle saw that the horse was well looked after and decorated. This horse was housed in the room situated on the eastern side of Dwarakamai; now called “Shyamsunder Hall”.

THE IDOL OF SHYAM KARAN – THE HORSE

At every Arati the horse would stand in the Sabha Mandap (where the tortoise is now) and wait patiently for the Arati to start. When the Arati was begun he danced merrily keeping beat with the tiny bells tied to his feet. After Baba's Lalkari he would climb the central steps of Dwarakamai and bow to Baba. Baba blessed him by applying Udi to his forehead, then all the other Bhaktas received Udi and Prasad.

On Chavadi procession days he was fully decorated with mala, leg rings, bells and a beautiful cloth for his tail. All his decorative articles are now kept in the Museum. It was a sight worth seeing as he danced all the way to Chavadi leading the procession. After Baba entered the Chavadi he stood outside facing Baba.

After Baba's Mahasamadhi he would dance in the Samadhi Mandir during the Aratis and also participate in the Chavadi procession.

This beloved horse of Baba died in 1945 and his Samadhi is built by Saibaba Sansthan in Lendi Bagh.

Bala Sahib Sulthe of Shirdi presented this idol of Shyam Karan. It was installed on the left side of the stone on which Baba sat.

This statue was in remembrance of the deep love that Shyam Karan had for Baba and the love that Baba had reciprocated.

THE STONE ON WHICH BABA SAT

This stone is placed in the center of the eastern wall of Dwarakamai near the Sabhamandap. Baba used to sit on this stone facing west. Marble Padukas were installed on this stone. Now the marble padukas have been replaced with Silver Padukas.

Baba often sat in the Sabhamandap. It was the portico in front of the Sanctum Sanctorum (Dwarakamai). There Baba sat on this stone. First this stone was adjacent to the Dwarakamai. Later it was moved to the eastern wall.

THE STONE ON WHICH BABA SAT

The legend has it, that this stone was in Lendi Bagh. Abdullah, like the other villagers, used to wash clothes on it. Then they saw Baba sitting on it. So they brought it to Dwarakamai and venerated it as Baba's Asan.

Once a Pehelvan (Body Builder), who was extremely proud of his strength came to Shirdi. Baba casually asked him to move the stone, from its original place to where it is now. But every after trying for a long time the stone did not budge an inch. The Pehelvan stood silently looking at the stone and then at Baba. Then Baba laughed and with his Satka played with it as if it was a small ball. Then with three small steps he moved it to the eastern wall. Needless to say the Pehelvan was humbled and returned home (Refer Saibaba Hach Chamatkar by Dr.Keshav B.Gavankar).

THE BIG PORTRAIT OF BABA ABOVE THE STONE

D.D. Neroy of Bombay was a great devotee of Baba. He was a photographer and artist. He made many photo prints of Baba with one of the eleven sayings printed below. Usually he would write, "If you look to Me, I look to you ". He sold these photographs to various Companies and temples.

D.D.Neroy was devoted to Kamu Baba (a saint at Girgaon, Mumbai). He got this portrait of Baba sitting on the stone made and mounted it in an ornate frame. Then with the help of four men he took it to Girgaon and offered it to his Guru. Kamu Baba appreciated the portrait and the kind gesture, but he refused to accept it. He told Neroy to take it to Shirdi, and place it in the Sabhamandap of the Dwarakamai. Dejected he sat at his Guru’s feet and said “it took me three years to make this portrait and one and a half months to get it framed. Never mind the expense, now you reject it?”. To this, Kamu Baba calmly said, “It is not a question of rejecting it, but a keen desire that you take it to Shirdi and place it where thousand upon thousands of devotees will have the benefit of praying to it”. Thus, this portrait came to be installed in the Sabhamandap of the Dwarakamai.

THE BIG PORTRAIT OF BABA ABOVE THE STONE

The dimensions of this photograph are 6’ by 4’. Originally it had a wooden frame, later the silver frame. Recently it has been enclosed in a glass door cupboard like frame to preserve it. Before Kakad Arati the priest does Alankar (decorates it) with Ashtagandh and garlands it.

Baba has given Sakshatkar (darshan) from this photo with blessings and healings.

D.D.Neroy had signed only one photo of Baba and this photo is placed in the Mangal Karyalay of Sansthan.

THE STATUE OF TIGER

This Statue is on the right side of the stone on which Baba sat. It was Installed on 12.11.1969 by the Sansthan and presented by Triambakrao Shripathrao Shiladhar of Ozar village. Seven days before Baba took Mahasamadhi the Leela of giving a sick tiger Sadgati is vividly described (Refer Shri Sai Satcharitra Chapter 31). The details are given under the heading “The Samadhi of the Tiger”.

This tiger was brought to Baba with the view to its cure by three Darveshis. After permission was taken they brought the tiger that climbed the steps of Dwarakamai, and looked at Baba lovingly. Suddenly it moved the tuft of its tail and dashed it against the ground thrice and fell and died. With this Darveshis got upset and Baba gave them Rs.507/- and consoled them. Thus the debt was paid and it met its end at Baba's holy feet attaining Sadgati. Baba not only gave Sadgati to men but also to beasts alike.

THE STATUE OF TIGER

The tiger died in the Dwarakamai at Baba’s feet, then how could he ever be reborn?

The Samadhi of this tiger is in front of Mahadev temple inside the main temple complex where in the old Shanti Niwas premises was present.

SHYAM SUNDER HALL

At the end of the Sabhamandap, and behind the stone on which Baba sat is the Shyam Sunder Hall. It has an east facing entrance, and it was the school where Shama taught. Shama was an assistant teacher. He often slept in the school at night. Often at night he heard Baba talk in English, Hindi, Arabic and various other languages. Shama would look out of the window on the western wall and see Baba seated alone talking to some invisible entity. He then realized that Baba is a Sat Purusha.

This hall was later used as a stable for Baba’s beloved horse Shyam Karan. Then it was used to sieve Udi and store it. Later the sieving was done in the room adjacent to the Chavadi. Then this room was used as a Parayan Kaksha. Devotees could read the Shri Sai Satcharitra, do naam jaap or meditate. Then the Parayan Kaksha was shifted to the room in front of the Kapad Koti in Lendi Bagh.

shyam Sunder Hall in shirdi

At present, this hall is again being used to store Udi and Udi packets.

Daily Routine at Dwarakamai Masjid

* Dwarakamai opens at 4:00 AM
* Alankar of all photos, Padukas tortoise, small red pillar and Tulasi Brindavan, Nimbar.
* Dhuni is cleaned. Udi is collected in containers and fresh firewood and gowri is offered.
* Loban at 4:15 AM.
* Offering oil to the ever burning lamps at 4:20 AM.
* Breakfast (morning Naivedya) at 8:30 AM.
* Cleaning of Dwarakamai at 11:15 AM.
* Vaishva Dev Puja (Agni/Dhuni Puja) at 11:30 AM: This is done by Sansthan on behalf of all the devotees and rice and ghee are offered to Dhuni Maa as an atonement for the sins unwittingly caused by killing ants and various other insects (Panchasuna).
* Chandan Alankar and Prasad to Baba.
* Cleaning of Dwarakamai at 3:15 PM.
* Dhuni replenished with firewood and gowri at 3:40 PM.
* Bhog is offered to Baba ten minutes after Evening Arati after Sunset.
* Cleaning of Dwarakamai a 9:00 PM.
* Water for Baba at 9:30 PM.
* Covering of the small Mandap with mosquito net and putting a woolen shawl on Baba and Padukas during winter season.
* Lighting of the Lantern.
* Dwarakamai closes at 9:45 PM.
* The outer pavilion is opened to devotees for Parayan, Jap and Meditation throughout the night.

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