|| Gan Gan Ganat Bote ||

Shree Gajanan Maharaj Vijay Granth

Chapter 9

Salutations to Lord Ganesha

In the ninth chapter of the revered Gajanan Maharaj Vijay Granth, we delve deeper into the spiritual journey and miraculous deeds of Gajanan Maharaj. This chapter is rich with teachings, anecdotes, and the divine presence of Maharaj, illuminating his path of devotion and the impact of his blessings on his followers.

The Divine Presence of Gajanan Maharaj

Gajanan Maharaj is depicted as a guiding light in the darkness, a beacon of hope and wisdom for his devotees. His presence is not just physical but deeply spiritual, transcending the mundane and touching the very soul of his followers. This chapter emphasizes Maharaj's role in guiding his devotees through life's challenges, offering them solace and direction.

Miraculous Deeds and Teachings

One of the central themes of this chapter is the miraculous deeds performed by Gajanan Maharaj. These miracles are not just acts of divine intervention but also serve as lessons for his devotees. Maharaj's miracles often come with profound teachings, encouraging his followers to lead a life of righteousness, devotion, and humility.

The Power of Devotion

Devotion to Gajanan Maharaj is a recurring theme in this chapter. The stories highlight how unwavering faith in Maharaj can lead to miraculous outcomes and personal transformation. Devotees who surrender completely to Maharaj find themselves blessed with peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth. This chapter reinforces the idea that true devotion transcends material desires and leads to a higher state of consciousness.

Spiritual Transformation

The narratives in this chapter also focus on the spiritual transformation experienced by Maharaj's followers. Through his teachings and miracles, Maharaj guides his devotees on a path of self-realization and spiritual awakening. This transformation is often depicted as a journey from ignorance to enlightenment, facilitated by Maharaj's divine presence and wisdom.

Maharaj's Compassion and Guidance

Gajanan Maharaj's compassion is another significant theme in this chapter. Maharaj's deep empathy for his followers and his desire to alleviate their suffering is evident in the stories. His guidance is gentle yet profound, helping his devotees navigate the complexities of life with grace and wisdom. Maharaj's compassion is a testament to his divine nature and his role as a spiritual guardian.

Key Incidents and Their Significance

This chapter is filled with key incidents that highlight Maharaj's divine powers and his role as a spiritual guide. Each incident is rich with symbolism and deeper meanings, offering valuable insights into Maharaj's teachings. These stories not only illustrate Maharaj's miraculous abilities but also convey important spiritual lessons for his followers.

The Eternal Legacy of Gajanan Maharaj

The chapter concludes with a reflection on the eternal legacy of Gajanan Maharaj. His teachings, miracles, and divine presence continue to inspire and guide his followers long after his physical departure. The chapter emphasizes the timeless relevance of Maharaj's teachings and the enduring impact of his blessings on the lives of his devotees.

The Divine Taming: Shri Gajanan Maharaj's Grace Calms a Wild Horse

Govindbuva from Takali was a renowned Haridas (a devotee who performs kirtan). He arrived in Shegaon to perform kirtan and sing devotional songs.

In Shegaon, there was an ancient temple of Shiva, which had undergone renovation by a wealthy merchant named Mote. Nowadays, the rich often neglect temples, preferring motor cars, clubs, and bicycles. However, Mote, despite being wealthy, was deeply devout and took it upon himself to restore the temple. Because of his efforts, people began referring to the temple as Mote’s Temple.

One day, Govindbuva arrived at this temple to perform kirtan. He had a horse with him, which he tied outside the temple. This horse was known to be very unruly, often kicking people and biting anyone who came near, much like a wild dog. It was difficult to control, never staying still, and sometimes running away suddenly. The horse was a constant source of trouble.

Govindbuva, after securing his horse outside the temple, went inside to sleep. As the night deepened, the atmosphere became eerie, with strange noises filling the air. It was around this time that Shri Gajanan Maharaj, a great saint, arrived at the spot where the horse was tied. It is said that saints descend on earth to correct unruly beings, just as medicine is meant to cure illnesses. The unruly behavior of the horse was calmed by the presence of the saint.

Gajanan Maharaj, filled with divine joy, lay down at the horse's feet and began chanting a sacred hymn, “Gani Gan Ganat Bote.” The meaning of this chant is profound and known to few, symbolizing that the individual soul (Jiva) is not different from the Supreme (Brahman).

While Govindbuva slept, he remained anxious about his horse, fearing it might cause trouble. When he woke up, he was astonished to see the horse standing still and calm. He wondered what had caused this sudden change in behavior. When he approached the horse, he saw Gajanan Maharaj lying peacefully at its feet.

Understanding the divine reason behind the horse’s transformation, Govindbuva humbly bowed at Maharaj’s feet, realizing that the saint’s presence had subdued the horse’s unruliness. Overcome with gratitude, he praised Maharaj, acknowledging that only a great saint like him could tame such a wild animal.

The next day, Govindbuva, riding his now calm horse, arrived at the temple grounds. The people of Shegaon, who knew the horse’s previous behavior, were astonished to see the transformation. They could hardly believe it was the same horse that had once been so wild.

Govindbuva explained to them that Shri Gajanan Maharaj had calmed the horse with his divine grace. He recounted how the horse, which had once been a terror to everyone, was now gentle and obedient.

This incident demonstrated the immense power of the saint, who could even control the behavior of animals with his divine presence. Govindbuva, filled with devotion, sang praises of Shri Gajanan Maharaj and then returned to his village, taking the horse with him.

The Forgotten Vow: Shri Gajanan Maharaj's Lesson on Truthfulness and Devotion

In that group of pilgrims, there were two gentlemen from Balapur. They came with a specific intention to have a glimpse of Shri Gajanan Maharaj. While walking, they began discussing with each other, "Next time, we should bring some dry cannabis for Maharaj." They thought, "Maharaj has a great affection for cannabis. If we bring it for him, he will surely bless us. People usually bring sweets like barfi and khawa. But we should bring cannabis. Let's tie it in our dhoti so that we don't forget."

On the next visit, both of them came to see Maharaj. But they forgot to bring the cannabis with them. As they bowed at Maharaj's feet, they suddenly remembered that they had not brought the cannabis. They thought, "Next time, we will bring double the amount of cannabis." After making this promise in their minds, they took Maharaj's darshan and left.

But on the next visit, the same thing happened—they forgot to bring the cannabis again. They sat there with folded hands, but their minds were empty of the thought of cannabis.

Shri Gajanan Maharaj said to Bhaskar, "Look at the ways of the world. These Brahmins tie knots in their dhoti to remember things but forget to bring what they intended. They are Brahmins by caste, yet see how they speak falsely, even to themselves. A Brahmin's words should never be unreliable. Not understanding this principle, they behave like outcasts. Brahmins who have abandoned their true dharma and forsaken proper conduct and thought have lost their esteemed position. People make vows in their minds but forget them when they come here. How can their desires be fulfilled in such a manner? There should be harmony in one's speech, and the mind should be pure. Only then does the compassionate Lord shower His grace."

These words deeply impacted the two gentlemen. They looked at each other with curiosity. They realized, "How profound is Maharaj's knowledge! He truly is the all-seeing eye of the world, like the sun. We made a vow in our minds, and Maharaj knew it. Now, let's go and get the cannabis from the village."

As they got up to leave, Maharaj said, "Why are you unnecessarily making a fuss over stale matters? I am not at all eager for cannabis. You don’t need to go to the market to get cannabis. Always maintain integrity in your words. Deception never fulfills its purpose. Remember this well. Once your work is done, if you wish, you may bring the cannabis. Next week, your task will be successfully accomplished. But you must not miss attending five consecutive gatherings here. This place is under the protection of Mrdani, who is as fair as camphor. By her grace, Kubera became the lord of wealth in this world. Go and bow to her. Do not forget to bring the cannabis, but never speak falsely in spiritual matters."

Hearing this advice, they bowed to Maharaj, took darshan of Lord Shiva, and left for Balapur. The following week, their task was indeed successfully completed. They returned to Shegaon for the pilgrimage, bringing the cannabis with them.

The Divine Visit: Sri Gajanan Maharaj Fulfills the Promise of Swami Ramdas

Listen now, dear listeners, to another story from Balapur. There lived a Ramdasi named Balkrishna in Balapur. His wife, Putlabai, was a devout lady who, every year, would walk to Sajjangad to pay homage. The husband and wife were of one mind. In the month of Pausha, they would set out, taking along a horse to carry their belongings. They carried a Kubadi (blanket) and a copy of Dasbodh. Despite their saintly way of life, they harbored no pride.

As they traveled through various villages, they would beg for alms, and with that food, they would offer Naivedya to Lord Rama. On Pausha Vadya Navami, they left Balapur with all their belongings, along with Putlabai. Balkrishna carried sandalwood tablets, and Putlabai accompanied him with cymbals in hand. Together, they chanted the name of Raghupati continuously on their journey, passing through Shegaon, Khamgaon, and Mehekar. They went on to visit Anandi Swami in Jalna, then continued to Jamb to stay for three days.

This place, Jamb, was where Samarth was born. After visiting there, they paid their respects at Godavari in Divray. From there, they traveled to Beed and Ambejogai, then to Mohori, the abode of Swami Beleshwar, a disciple of Samarth. They visited Kalyan in Domgaon, then to Narsingpur, Pandharpur, Natepot, Shinganapur, Wai, and Satara, before finally reaching the base of Sajjangad on Makar Sankranti.

On Magh Vadya Pratipada, they would reach Sajjangad, just in time for the celebration of Das Navami. As per their capacity, they would arrange for Brahmin feasts, all for the sake of Sri Swami Samarth, truly devoted to him. After the Das Navami celebration, they would return by the same route they came. This routine continued for many years, and 60 years passed in this way.

On Magh Vadya Dwadashi, they would leave Sajjangad and return to Balapur. However, on one such occasion, on Ekadashi, Balkrishna sat near Samarth's Samadhi, overwhelmed with emotions and tears in his eyes, unable to speak. He prayed, "Oh Ramdas Swami, oh Guru, my body has grown weak. I cannot undertake this pilgrimage on foot anymore. Even if I travel in a vehicle, it seems difficult. My regular practice has been going on until now, but I see a gap in my devotion, as my body is no longer fit for such strenuous tasks. I know that for true spiritual progress, the body must be strong."

With this prayer, he went to bed. At dawn, Balkrishna had a dream. In the dream, Ramdas Swami spoke to him, saying, "Do not despair. You need not come to Sajjangad anymore. I will come to your house in Balapur on Das Navami." This dream filled Balkrishna with joy, and he returned home with his wife, Putlabai, to Balapur.

The following year, in the month of Magh, something miraculous happened in Balapur. On Magh Vadya Pratipada, Balkrishna began the celebration of Das Navami at his home in Balapur. He recited Dasbodh, held Harikirtan at night, fed Brahmins at the second prahar, and performed Dhooparti at sunset. Throughout this time, Balkrishna was filled with the thought of how Swami Samarth would arrive on Navami.

The villagers of Balapur, moved by Balkrishna's devotion, collected donations among themselves to help with the celebration. The Navami festival continued for nine days, and on the ninth day, something incredible occurred. At the second prahar, on Navami, Sri Gajanan Maharaj manifested in Balapur. He stood at the door of Balkrishna's house as the Ramabhishek ritual was being performed inside, leaving everyone astonished.

Seeing this, the villagers quickly went to Balkrishna and said, "Get up, get up quickly! Gajanan Maharaj has appeared at your door on your Das Navami!" Balkrishna, overjoyed, said, "Gajanan Maharaj has come! It is good that he has graced my house with his presence. But today, I am waiting for Samarth Swami from Sajjangad." He explained that Swami Ramdas had promised him in the dream that he would come on Navami.

Meanwhile, Gajanan Maharaj stood at the door, reciting verses praising Lord Raghavendra. Balkrishna then saw Gajanan Maharaj in his divine form, with long arms and a serene countenance, and immediately prostrated before him. As he rose, he saw Ramdas Swami with matted hair and holding a Kubadi, standing behind Gajanan Maharaj. But as he looked again, it was Gajanan Maharaj.

Balkrishna was puzzled, unable to understand this divine play. Then, Gajanan Maharaj, filled with love, said, "Do not let your mind be confused. I am your Samarth, the one who resides in Sajjangad, and now I reside in Shegaon. I promised you that I would come on Das Navami, and I have kept that promise. Let go of all doubts; I am Ramdas."

Gajanan Maharaj continued, "Why do you give so much importance to the body and forget the soul? This is what I want to remind you of. Remember the verse from the Gita, 'Vasansi jirnani,' and do not be confused. Come, let me sit on the wooden platform." Holding Balkrishna's hand, Gajanan Maharaj entered the house and sat on the platform.

The news spread throughout Balapur that Gajanan Maharaj had come, and people rushed to see him and receive his blessings. Balkrishna, throughout the day, reflected on this divine occurrence. That night, at the third prahar, he had another dream. In the dream, Gajanan Maharaj said, "Do not doubt. I am the same form, now in your Varhad (Buldhana) region. Do not let any doubts remain in your mind; otherwise, you will drown in them. Remember, 'Samshayatma Vinashyati' from the Gita."

Balkrishna woke up, filled with joy, and placed his head at the feet of Gajanan Maharaj with great reverence. He said, "Maharaj, I am not worthy of understanding your divine play. You have cleared my doubts through this dream. My Das Navami celebration is now complete, with no shortcomings remaining. You have blessed even the least of your devotees, and for that, I am truly grateful."

He then pleaded with Maharaj to stay in Balapur for a few more days, to which Maharaj replied, "Listen to my thoughts. After some days, I will come back to Balapur." After the meal, Gajanan Maharaj left for Shegaon, unseen by anyone on the road, reaching Shegaon in a moment.

Conclusion

Chapter 9 of the Gajanan Maharaj Vijay Granth is a profound exploration of Maharaj's spiritual journey and his impact on his followers. Through miraculous deeds, teachings, and divine presence, Maharaj continues to guide his devotees on a path of devotion, righteousness, and spiritual awakening. This chapter serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Gajanan Maharaj and his role as a beacon of hope and wisdom for his followers.

By delving into this chapter, readers can gain a deeper understanding of Maharaj's divine nature and the transformative power of his teachings. Whether you are a long-time devotee or new to Maharaj's teachings, Chapter 9 offers valuable insights and inspiration for your spiritual journey.