Moments with Sri Sathya Sai at Kodaikanal – By Prof. G. Nageswara Rao

Moments with Sri Sathya Sai at Kodaikanal – By Prof. G. Nageswara Rao

Living with the Lord is an occasion when we are exposed to many spiritual teachings. Once in Kodaikanal, Bhagavan asked, “What is the greatest Sadhana?” Giving the answer Bhagavan said, “Following the Lord’s command is the greatest Sadhana.” Hanuman was near and dear to Lord Rama because to him the greatest Sadhana was to follow Rama’s command. Not following Bhagavan’s command is acting like the bus conductor who, for the sake of Rs. 2, accommodates more than the capacity of the bus the result of which is a flat tyre, adding Rs. 2000 to the cost. Bhagavan narrated an incident to show how following the Divine command will benefit us. Mr. Gopal Rao was president of Andhra Bank. Once all the Andhra Bank employees went on a strike demanding the fulfilment of their conditions. The president consulted Bhagavan and according to His guidance he did not budge. Days went by. One day Prime Minister Indira Gandhi phoned to Mr. Gopal Rao and asked him to come immediately to Delhi. Bhagavan told him not to go. Mr. Gopal Rao told the Prime Minister that he was not coming. The Prime Minister asked him, “With what courage are you talking?” He told, “Bhagavan asked me not to go.” The Prime Minister phoned the next day and told Mr. Gopal Rao, “You did a good thing not coming. The labour union leaders were waiting with machine guns and pistols at the airport to shoot you.” The Prime Minister congratulated Mr. Gopal Rao for his not coming.

I was suffering from an allergy problem for several years. Even if I touch, cut or eat brinjal, I used to get swelling and itching all over the body. A small piece of cauliflower was enough to cause allergy. In 1997, Bhagavan took a group of students and teachers to Kodaikanal. On our way to Kodaikanal we stopped at Salem for lunch. One of the curries served was cauliflower, which I did not touch. Bhagavan finished His lunch and moving among us, came to me. Pointing towards the cauliflower curry He said, “This is vegetable, good for health. Take.” With hesitation I ate the curry. I was expecting allergic patches on my face the day and worried how to show my face, which would be swollen, to Bhagavan. The next day I was surprised to find that there was no allergy! After that I started eating all vegetables I was allergic to, like brinjal etc., and by Bhagavan’s grace the allergy problem never came back!

In the evenings after Bhajans, we used to sit with Bhagavan to listen from Him the stories of Rama and Krishna. Bhagavan narrated some of the stories, which were not recorded in the Puranas. Surpanakha after being punished by Lakshmana did Tapas and her desire was fulfilled when she was born as Kubja and was blessed by Lord Krishna in the Dwapara Yuga. The dhobi who spoke ill of Sita in Rama Avatar was born as a dhobi in Dwapara and was killed by Krishna when he was taking clothes from Kamsa’s palace.

Bhagavan also narrated how the eight queens were wedded to Krishna. In the kingdom by name Avanti, there were six powerful and ferocious bulls, which were harassing and killing many people. It was difficult to subdue those bulls. After many unsuccessful attempts to overpower these bulls the king made an announcement that whosoever would subdue the bulls would be given half the kingdom and the King’s daughter Bhadra in marriage. Many kings tried their best to subdue the bulls but failed. One day Krishna along with Satyaki single-handedly subdued the bulls. Krishna held the bulls by their horns, swung and hit them on the ground and killed them. The king gave his daughter in marriage to Krishna and presented a ring. Bhagavan created that ring and showed us. It had bullhead shape and there were eighteen gems (diamonds) studded in it making horns, eyes, nose, etc. Bhagavan mentioned that figure ‘18’ is very significant in Mahabharata and this came from this. There are 18 chapters in Bhagavad Gita and 18 Akshauhinis (a unit of the infantry and cavalry) army participated in the Kurukshetra Battle.

One day Bhagavan narrated the story of Revati. Revati’s father Kushasma was the king of Kushasthali. Once he was attacked by Rakshasas and was defeated. Then he went to forest, losing his kingdom. He performed Tapas. Brahma appeared and asked him to express his desire. King Kushasma prayed to the Lord for the bright future for his only daughter, Revati. In response, Brahma gave a medallion, which contained a golden Hamsa (swan) fixed on a gold base. “Ask your daughter to wear this in her neck. The person who defeats your daughter in single combat will be her husband. He will defeat the demons and bring back your kingdom.” Telling this the Lord disappeared. Revati learnt both secular knowledge and martial arts under Sandeepani. One day Sandeepani arranged a show where his disciples participated in a martial arts competition. Revati was an expert in mace fight. Balarama was the only one equal to her. Balarama fought with her and defeated her in the combat. Along with Krishna, Balarama defeated Danavas (demons) and gave back the kingdom to Kushasma. Later Balarama was wedded to Revati. Bhagavan created the Hamsa ornament and showed it to us. In the stomach of the Hamsa Bhagavan’s head was there! 

One day Bhagavan narrated the story of Kamsa. Jarasandha, father-in-law of Kamsa performed Aswamedha Yagna. He requested Kamsa to go behind the Yagnasva to conquer the opposed kings. He gave a ring ‘Vijayanguli’ (given to him by Lord Siva) to Kamsa. The person wearing it would be victorious in the battle. After the Yagna the ring was with Kamsa. Bhagavan materialised this ring also. It was a big ring with a green gem.

The Darshan of Bhagavan is an elevating experience. Let me narrate an experience of my father. After my mother’s passing away, my father did not recover from the grief and suffering for a long time. Few months after the incident, he came to Prasanthi Nilayam. Bhagavan graciously granted him an interview. Bhagavan told me that father was suffering from grief and thoughts of mother’s death were tormenting him all these months. After the interview I asked father about this and he said, “Yes, all these months my mind was filled with sorrow and grief. But when I sat for Darshan on the first day of my arrival and had Bhagavan’s Darshan, all the grief in my mind vanished. Now I am completely free from the traces of that grief and I am now happy.”

– Prof. G. Nageswara Rao

Student & Doctoral Research Scholar (1982-1988), Department of Chemistry 

Currently, Professor and Dean of Sciences,

Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning

Prasanthi Nilayam

Moments with Sri Sathya Sai at Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal holds a special place in the hearts of countless devotees of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. Nestled amidst serene hills, lush greenery, and a peaceful atmosphere, this beautiful location became the setting for many unforgettable spiritual experiences. For those fortunate enough to spend time in Baba’s divine presence there, the memories remain treasured for a lifetime. The sacred interactions, profound teachings, and expressions of unconditional love experienced during these gatherings continue to inspire devotees long after the moments themselves have passed.

The significance of Moments with Sri Sathya Sai at Kodaikanal lies not merely in the physical location but in the unique spiritual atmosphere that surrounded Baba during His stays. Away from large public gatherings, devotees often experienced a more intimate setting where they could observe His compassion, wisdom, and divine concern for every individual. These occasions provided valuable opportunities for spiritual learning and personal transformation.

One of the most remarkable aspects of these moments was Baba’s ability to make every person feel loved and valued. Whether addressing a large group or speaking to an individual devotee, He displayed the same warmth and attention. His words carried profound meaning, often answering unspoken questions and providing guidance tailored to the needs of those present. Many devotees felt that even a brief interaction with Him brought clarity, peace, and renewed faith.

The memories associated with Moments with Sri Sathya Sai at Kodaikanal often include inspiring discourses delivered in a relaxed and personal environment. Baba used simple examples drawn from everyday life to explain profound spiritual truths. His teachings emphasized the importance of love, self-discipline, humility, devotion, and selfless service. Through these conversations, devotees gained deeper insight into how spiritual principles could be applied in practical ways.

Kodaikanal also provided a setting where students and young devotees could interact closely with Baba. These interactions were filled with valuable lessons that extended beyond academic knowledge. He encouraged young people to develop strong character, respect their parents and teachers, and dedicate their talents to the service of society. His guidance helped shape the lives of many students, inspiring them to pursue both excellence and integrity.

The natural beauty of Kodaikanal added a special dimension to these experiences. The peaceful surroundings created an atmosphere conducive to reflection and spiritual contemplation. Devotees often felt that the tranquility of nature complemented Baba’s teachings, reminding them of the harmony that exists within creation. Walks, informal gatherings, and moments of silent observation became opportunities to absorb spiritual lessons in a deeply personal way.

Another memorable aspect of Moments with Sri Sathya Sai at Kodaikanal was Baba’s extraordinary concern for the well-being of those around Him. He frequently demonstrated kindness through small yet meaningful gestures that revealed His boundless love. Whether offering guidance, providing encouragement, or simply sharing a moment of joy, He touched lives in ways that left lasting impressions on devotees.

Many devotees recall that Baba often used humor and gentle conversation to convey important lessons. His ability to combine profound wisdom with simplicity made spiritual teachings accessible and memorable. Even casual interactions carried deeper meanings that devotees would reflect upon for years. These experiences reinforced the understanding that spirituality is not confined to formal practices but can be expressed through every aspect of daily life.

The spiritual significance of these gatherings extended beyond the individuals who attended them. The lessons learned at Kodaikanal were shared with families, communities, and future generations of devotees. Stories of Baba’s guidance, compassion, and divine insight continue to inspire those who hear them, keeping the spirit of those sacred moments alive.

The theme of Moments with Sri Sathya Sai at Kodaikanal also highlights the importance of personal transformation. Baba consistently reminded devotees that the purpose of spiritual life is to recognize and manifest the divinity within. Through His presence and teachings, He encouraged individuals to overcome negative tendencies, cultivate noble qualities, and live lives guided by truth, righteousness, peace, love, and non-violence.

Ultimately, the memories of Kodaikanal represent far more than a series of events. They symbolize a unique opportunity to experience the love and wisdom of a Divine Master in a setting filled with peace and spiritual beauty. For those who were present, these moments became treasured milestones on their spiritual journey. For others, the stories and teachings that emerged from those gatherings continue to provide inspiration and guidance. The legacy of Moments with Sri Sathya Sai at Kodaikanal endures as a testament to the transformative power of divine love, reminding devotees that every moment spent in the presence of the Divine is an opportunity for growth, awakening, and lasting inner joy.

Blissful Smile…