|| Gan Gan Ganat Bote ||

Shree Gajanan Maharaj Vijay Granth

Chapter 11

Salutations to Lord Ganesha

Gajanan Maharaj Vijay Granth is a revered scripture that chronicles the life and miracles of Sant Gajanan Maharaj of Shegaon. Chapter 11 delves into more miraculous events and teachings that continue to inspire his devotees. In this blog, we will explore the highlights of this chapter, offering insights and reflections to create a deeper understanding and connection with the saint's life and message.

The Divine Play of Gajanan Maharaj

Chapter 11 begins with a description of Gajanan Maharaj's divine play (Leela). Maharaj's actions, though appearing simple, are imbued with profound spiritual significance. This chapter emphasizes his unique way of imparting spiritual wisdom through everyday activities, demonstrating that the divine can be found in the mundane.

The Story of the Devoted Disciple

A significant portion of this chapter is dedicated to a devoted disciple who experiences Maharaj's grace in an extraordinary way. This story illustrates Maharaj's ability to transcend physical boundaries and offer protection and guidance to his devotees, no matter where they are. It is a testament to the power of faith and the boundless nature of a true guru's blessings.

Miracles and Teachings

Chapter 11 recounts several miracles performed by Gajanan Maharaj, each underscoring a spiritual lesson. One such miracle involves the curing of an incurable disease, showcasing Maharaj's divine healing powers. Another story involves Maharaj resolving a complex dispute, highlighting his wisdom and fairness.

These miracles are not just tales of wonder; they are profound teachings in disguise. Maharaj's actions teach us about the virtues of faith, patience, humility, and devotion. His life is a living scripture, providing guidance on how to lead a spiritually fulfilling life.

The Importance of Selfless Service

A recurring theme in this chapter is the importance of selfless service (Seva). Gajanan Maharaj emphasizes that true spiritual progress is achieved through serving others without any expectation of reward. This principle is illustrated through various anecdotes where Maharaj encourages his disciples to engage in selfless acts of kindness and generosity.

Reflections on Spiritual Wisdom

Chapter 11 also offers reflections on the nature of spiritual wisdom. Gajanan Maharaj's teachings often emphasize the transient nature of worldly possessions and the eternal value of spiritual wealth. He encourages his followers to seek inner peace and contentment through meditation, devotion, and righteous living.

The Universal Message of Love and Compassion

At its core, this chapter conveys a universal message of love and compassion. Gajanan Maharaj's life is a testament to the power of love in overcoming all obstacles. His compassion for all beings, regardless of their social or economic status, is a powerful reminder of the true essence of spirituality.

The Liberation of Bhaskar: A Journey of Faith and Destiny

In the second year, during the celebration of Dasnavami at Balapur, Samarth arrived at Balakrishna’s residence. Balakrishna and Suklal were devotees with boundless faith. Accompanying them were Patil Bhaskar, Balabhau, Pitambar, Ganu, Jagdev, and Dindokar. The celebration of Dasnavami was in full swing, but destiny had something else in store for Bhaskar.

A rabid dog suddenly bit Bhaskar, causing panic among the people. Some suggested sending for a doctor, but Bhaskar remained calm, asserting that his true doctor was Gajanan, who was seated on a divine throne. He insisted on being taken to Gajanan and instructed that no one impose their will on him.

When brought before Gajanan Maharaj, Balabhau narrated the entire incident. Hearing this, Maharaj, with a smile, explained that debt, enmity, and fate never fail to manifest. He revealed that the mischief Bhaskar had caused to Suklal’s cows had now returned to him in the form of the rabid dog’s bite. Maharaj then shared that Bhaskar’s past karma had determined his current fate, and his time on earth was nearing its end. He advised Bhaskar to accept his destiny and prepare for his departure from this mortal world.

Despite the inevitability of his fate, Maharaj assured Bhaskar that he could extend his life by two months. However, he warned that this extension would be borrowed time, as birth and death are part of the eternal cycle in this transient world.

Bhaskar, fully accepting Maharaj’s words, expressed that whatever would happen, he left it in Maharaj’s hands. He was content and ready to depart whenever his time came.

Others, including Bhaskar’s devotees, requested Maharaj to save him, but Maharaj explained that their request was rooted in ignorance. He taught that life and death are illusions and that no one truly dies or is born. These events are simply part of the soul’s journey through its karma. He emphasized that Bhaskar’s past karma had been exhausted, and his soul was now free, ready to attain liberation.

Maharaj declared that there was no need to obstruct Bhaskar’s path to liberation, as he had fulfilled his destiny. Bhaskar’s devotion was complete, and his cycle of birth and death had come to an end.

Later, as the time of Bhaskar’s departure drew near, Maharaj instructed him to sit in the lotus posture, facing east, and to focus his mind entirely on God. Bhaskar complied, immersing himself in meditation. Devotees surrounded him, offering prayers and chanting the name of Lord Vitthal.

At noon, Maharaj loudly chanted "Har Har," and at that moment, Bhaskar’s soul peacefully departed for Vaikuntha, the heavenly abode. His devotees, witnessing the sacred moment, asked Maharaj where to bury his body. Maharaj directed them to place Bhaskar’s body near the Dwarkeshwar temple.

Following Maharaj’s instructions, they constructed a ceremonial bier, adorned with banana stems and flowers, and carried Bhaskar’s body to the temple with devotional songs and rituals. There, they performed the final rites, laying Bhaskar to rest in the presence of Lord Dwarkeshwar.

The Miracle at Dwarakeshwar: Gajanan Maharaj's Divine Intervention

In the sacred land of Dwarakeshwar, the place was truly beautiful, adorned with a grove of tamarind trees. This grove was special to the area, adding to the serene atmosphere. Alongside the tamarind trees, there were other trees like neem, peepal, mandar, mango, banyan, and audumbar, accompanied by various flowering plants that further enhanced the beauty of the place.

Between the villages of Adgaon and Akoli, this chosen spot was where Samarth (Swami Samarth) bestowed his true blessing upon Bhaskar. This place was the site of a significant event—ten days of food distribution, recently heard by you. The gathering was named Sant Bhandara, where devotees came together in large numbers.

Under the shade of the tamarind trees, the congregation sat down to enjoy their meal. However, they were soon disturbed by the loud cawing of crows, which began creating a nuisance. The crows were not only making noise but were also picking up food plates and even defecating on those who were eating, causing a lot of trouble.

Frustrated, the people began driving the crows away, and the local Bhils (tribal people) prepared their bows and arrows to shoot them. But at that moment, Gajanan Maharaj intervened, speaking to everyone. He urged them not to kill the crows, explaining that they had committed no offense.

Maharaj further explained that the crows had come to this Bhandara with only one purpose—to receive the prasad (blessed food) of Bhaskar, just like everyone else. Bhaskar had already moved on to Vaikunth (heaven) and was no longer in the realm of the ancestors. His soul was at rest, not wandering anymore.

For ten days, a soul remains in the atmosphere, wandering until the final rites are performed. On the eleventh day, food is offered to a crow, and when the crow touches the food, the soul is believed to move on. The crows were restless because Bhaskar's soul had already found peace, and they understood this.

Maharaj emphasized that Bhaskar's soul had truly been freed and was now a guest in Vaikunth, thus there was no need for further offerings. The crows' behavior seemed agitated because they had no further purpose for being there, as Bhaskar's soul had already moved on.

Maharaj explained that for those whose souls have not reached such a state, offerings are made, and crows are expected to eat the food placed on the pitcher. The crows were angry because they knew Bhaskar had moved directly to Vaikunth. They only wanted Bhaskar's prasad from this Bhandara, which was evident by their actions.

Maharaj urged the people not to kill the crows, assuring them that he would speak to the crows himself. He asked the people to listen to him carefully. Starting from the next day, he instructed them to avoid this place, warning that if they didn’t, it could bring dishonor to him due to Bhaskar’s actions.

Maharaj allowed the people to take the prasad that day and be satisfied, but he insisted that from the next day onward, they should not come to that place. His words were accepted by all the devotees, except for a few who were sitting in a mocking manner.

These individuals laughed among themselves, questioning the logic behind Maharaj's words, and wondered if birds would truly obey human commands. They decided to return the next day to see what would happen.

However, the next day, when they arrived, not a single crow was in sight. They were amazed and realized the truth of Maharaj’s words. They surrendered to Samarth, and for twelve years after that, no crows were seen in that area.

After fourteen days, Gajanan Maharaj returned to Shegaon with his remaining disciples, completing the miraculous event that taught a profound lesson to all who witnessed it.

An Unexpected Incident at Shegaon

A surprising and significant incident occurred in Shegaon, which I will now recount to you.

During a year of severe drought, work began on digging a well. The well had reached a depth of two men, and the workers encountered a large, hard black rock that halted the progress of their tools. The decision was made to use explosives (dynamite) to break through the rock.

Four holes were drilled around the rock, and dynamite was inserted into them. Fuses were lit and placed in each hole, but one of the fuses got stuck midway. The dynamite did not ignite, and water started seeping into the well, dampening the explosives.

The head worker, or foreman, instructed a laborer named Ganu to go down into the well and adjust the stuck fuse. Ganu, who was in dire financial straits, had no choice but to comply, despite the obvious danger.

As Ganu was about to adjust the second fuse, the first charge exploded. He immediately prayed to Samartha (a reference to Gajanan Maharaj) for protection. The well filled with smoke, and there was barely any time left before the next explosion.

Ganu found a small crevice in the well and quickly took shelter there. The second charge then detonated, followed by the third, releasing a massive amount of debris. The workers and onlookers outside feared the worst, assuming that Ganu had been blown to pieces along with the rocks.

To their astonishment, Ganu's voice was heard from inside the well. He was unharmed, sheltered in the crevice. However, a large stone had fallen at the entrance of the crevice, blocking his exit. The workers managed to move the stone, and Ganu was safely brought out.

Ganu immediately ran to the monastery to seek the blessings of his guru, Gajanan Maharaj. Upon seeing him, the guru, knowing of the incident, remarked with a smile, asking how many stones Ganu had blown away while sitting in the crevice. Gajanan Maharaj acknowledged that it was through his divine intervention that Ganu was saved.

Conclusion

Chapter 11 of the Gajanan Maharaj Vijay Granth is a rich tapestry of miracles, teachings, and spiritual insights. It serves as a guide for those on the path of devotion, offering practical lessons on living a life of faith, humility, and service. Through the stories and teachings of Gajanan Maharaj, we are reminded of the divine potential within each of us and the importance of seeking a higher purpose.

By reflecting on the life and miracles of Gajanan Maharaj, we can draw inspiration and strength to navigate the challenges of our own lives. His teachings are timeless, providing wisdom and guidance that resonate across generations. As we delve into the profound lessons of Chapter 11, may we find ourselves drawn closer to the divine and inspired to lead lives of greater purpose and meaning.

This blog serves as a humble attempt to share the essence of Chapter 11, inviting readers to explore the deeper spiritual truths embodied in the life of Gajanan Maharaj. May his blessings continue to guide and inspire us on our spiritual journey.