The All-pervasive Eternal Master

There was a devotee of Baba by the name of Balaram Mankar. When his wife passed away, he became dejected and, entrusting his household to his son, left his home and came to Shirdi and lived there. Being pleased with his devotion, Baba wanted to give a good turn to his life. Baba gave him Rs. 12/ and asked him to go and live in Machindragad (located in Satara district of Maharashtra). Mankar was at first unwilling to go leaving Baba and shirdi, but Baba convinced him that it is the best course for him and asked Mankar to practice meditation three times a day.

Believing in Baba’s words, Mankar went to Machindragad. He was very pleased with the scenic surroundings of the place, the pure water and healthy air, and he began assiduously to practice the meditation as recommended by Baba . After a few days, he had a revelation. Generally, devotees get a revelation in their samadhi or trance states, but in Mankar’s case, he had it when he returned to his ordinary consciousness from the trance state. Baba appeared to him in person. Not only did Mankar see him, but he also asked Baba why he was sent here. Baba replied, “In Shirdi, your mind was crowded with many thoughts and I sent you here to rest your unsteady mind. You thought I was in Shirdi with a body composed of the five elements and three and a half cubits in length, and not outside of it. Now you see and can determine for yourself whether the person you see here this moment is the same one you saw in Shirdi. It is for this reason I sent you here.”