EXPERIENCES OF DEVOTEES

DHARMATMA DR. V. VAIDYASUBRAMANYA IYER

(Dharmatma has firm faith in the words of our Guru. He has done innumerable good deeds by the way of service to Acharyal and to the cause of Sanatana Dharma. It is rare to find one who has not heard of him. Herein he describes his contact with Acharyal. It is hoped that a perusal of his narration will help devotees develop intense devotion.)

The first time that I ever heard about Sringeri was when I was a boy of about eight years age, when my father had undertaken a trip to Sringeri in or about the year 1917. He was expected to return before his father's Shraddham. My mother and my maternal grandfather were having a very anxious time, as in those days communications to Sringeri were no good. However, my father returned just a day before the ceremony. He narrated the difficulties of reaching Sringeri and gave vivid descriptions of the place, stating that it was situated amidst a forest in a picturesque valley. Afterwards, I did not hear about Sringeri for a while. Then as a student, I had a glimpse of Sri Chandrasekara Bharathi Mahaswamigal in 1924 or 1925 at Madurai, where He was camping and performing Puja in the Meenakshi Amman Temple Kalyana Mandapam.

In 1935, when I went to open a branch for our office at Cochin, having heard about Kalady, I undertook a trip to that place and when I went there, I saw two small shrines— one for Sri Sharadambal and the other for Sri Bhagavatpadal, apart from Aryambal's Samadhi. There was only a tiled roofing in the front and I was feeling very perturbed that the place of birth of Sri Adi Shankara should be so neglected. After my bath and Darshanam, Sri P.A.C. Ramaswamy Raja came and had Darshanam. I told him that he must do something to improve the premises in a grand manner. His reply was that I should undertake to do it. I retorted by saying that having regard to my position financially as an assistant to Raja Saheb, it would be impossible for me to do it and that people like him should take up the matter. I heard at that time that the place was under the management and ownership of the Sringeri Math and it was Sri Narasimha Bharathi Mahaswamigal of Sri Sringeri Sharada Peetam who had done everything necessary to construct the temple, etc., and that the Kumbabhishekam was done in 1910. The story does not terminate here, as we shall see later.

Days passed by. Though I was keen on having Darshanam of Paramacharyal, my desire did not materialise as He attained Videha Mukti. In 1957, when my wife, daughter and son-in-law went to Courtallam they had Darshanam of our Acharyal and told me everything about Him. But I could not have Darshanam as I was busy with a court-case at Madurai.

In April-May 1958, His Holiness visited the city of Madurai. I was then permanently residing at Madras but I had a residence in Madurai as well. My wife and I had Darshanam of His Holiness at Madurai. As soon as I prostrated before Him, He identified me as the husband of the lady who had Darshanam of Him at Courtallam. When I invited Him to my house for Pada Puja and Bhiksha, He readily agreed. Thereafter, He made a few enquiries and subsequently asked the committee members present to go downstairs. He asked me about a local person at whose place He was scheduled to camp. At that time I did not have much familiarity with Acharyal. But in spite of this, because He asked me about the concerned person, I spoke of the qualities of that person. Later, Acharyal kept my opinions in His mind, discussed the matter with the committee and decided to camp at that person's place. I was greatly surprised at the confidence He began imposing on me even within a few minutes of our meeting. Then onwards, I was always spellbound in His presence, by His teachings and by His very appearance for reasons that I am unaware of. Acharyal graced my house and praised me for the arrangements that had been made there. An incident transpired.

A person belonging to the Nadar community was a friend of mine. He came to witness Acharyal’s Puja. Because some people objected to his sitting very close to the Puja, I, along with him, moved back and sat at a little distance from where the Puja was being performed. The reason for this was that I did not wish to wound my friend’s feelings. His Holiness had not only observed my sitting inside and chanting Rudram on the first day but also my sitting with my friend a little outside on the second day. At the end of the Puja, He,who had brought some flowers as Prasada, walked upto us, gave us the flowers and went inside. Those who were standing around me told that what I had done was highly improper. I was frightened and so when His Holiness came out a little later I sought forgiveness. In response to Acharyal’s question, a person gave the details of what had transpired. Acharyal retorted, ‘‘Why do you call me ‘Jagadguru’? From now on, you might as well call me a ‘Guru of the Brahmins!’ It is we who should make proper adjustments’’. What broadmindedness! Did He not convey to us by His own words that He saw no differentiation by way of caste or status in society as far as His advice and status as Guru were concerned. I realised that He was indeed the true 'Jagadguru'

Because my house had a lot of conveniences,it was conveyed to Acharyal that it might be convenient if he extended His stay there. Acharyal consented. I conveyed to the committee the desire of my Athimber to perform Bhikshavandanam the next day. The authorities told me that someone else was supposed to offer Bhiksha Kanikkai the next day and so my proposal could not be accepted (At that time only one Bhiksha Kanikkai was accepted per day). But unexpectedly, the concerned person did not turn up and in accordance with my desire itself, my Athimber was able to perform not only Bhikshavandanam but also Sahasranama Pada Puja. What else is this but the grace of Acharyal ?

When I asked His Holiness for Mantropadesa at Madurai, He said, "We shall see later", and postponed the matter. I had prayed to Acharyal to have a camp at Thenkarai — my wife's native place. He accepted. At Thenkarai, the Aradhana of Sri Narasimha Bharathi Mahaswamigal was to be performed. I was keen on arranging to conduct the function but on enquiry learnt that some other person had already undertaken to do it. However, as he did not turn up, I had the privilege of arranging for the Aradhana. I offered obeisance to His Holiness along with my wife.

The Jagadguru turned to me and asked, "Have you had any Mantropadesa before ?" I replied that I had been initiated into the Gayathri Mantra. Smilingly, His Holiness remarked, "Whenever I ask such questions, people, in their replies, never consider the Gayathri Upadesa as an Upadesa at all". On that very day He graced me with initiation.

Days passed by. In 1960, on hearing of Acharyal's visit to Madras, I rushed from Jaipur and had the good fortune of repeatedly having Acharyal's Darshanam. One day, I learnt that His Holiness would be going to the ocean to have bath in connection with the lunar eclipse that was scheduled to take place. I sought to make arrangements. Others told me that it was my responsibility to cater to the safety of His Holiness who was likely to go in for an extensive swim. I was extremely perplexed as to how I could protect the One who protects the whole world. However, I had people posted suitably in the region surrounding the spot where His Holiness would be having a bath. On seeing the arrangements, He asked me what they were all about. "My ignorance", I replied and prostrated before Acharyal by way of apology. He dispelled my fears and proceeded for the bath. His playfully facing up to the waves and swimming with ease was a sight to see.

In the meantime, I had prayed to His Holiness to grace my house for about ten days. Numerous people found that the Pandal that was put up in the front of my house was very large. As the Navarathri celebrations were to begin, many people felt that I was making the arrangements for the same. On hearing of this His Holiness asked, "I understand you are making elaborate arrangements. Am I to come to your place for Navarathri?". "Whenever Acharyal wishes to come, I consider myself fortunate. Even if Acharyal were to come for one day, I will make the very same arrangements that I am making now", I replied. One day, the committee members told me that the Navarathri celebrations could be held at my place. Gradually, my contacts with Acharyal grew and I began to have His Darshanam every year on my birthday.

His Holiness was camping at Delhi. I was surprised when He called me after Puja at about midnight and stated that He wanted to improve the Math at Kalady by putting up halls, arches, etc., and gave an Ajna (command) that I should undertake this task. It was then that I prostrated before His Holiness with tears in my eyes and related to Him my earnest desire from 1935 onwards to do the same. His Holiness blessed me for that venture and showed me the plans during Navarathri. Solely due to the blessings of His Holiness, all the improvements have been made at Kalady.

Having rediscussed the Kalady matter with Acharyal when His Holiness was camping at Nepal, I boarded a plane and sat down to read a newspaper. I was shocked to find that I could not read anything. I had lost my eyesight. I went to Sitapur for treatment. The day I was scheduled to be operated, Sri Padmanabha Upadhyaya, the devout Personal Assistant of His Holiness, brought Prasada graced by His Holiness. Local anaesthesia was administered to me and the surgery commenced. "Sharada, get me knife number two", said the doctor. As I had some degree of awareness I heard the statement. "This is North India. How can the name Sharada be commonly found here?", was the query that rose in my mind. On enquiry, the doctor told me that the special duty nurse had not arrived and so a special nurse from Lucknow named Sharada had taken her place. Acharyal's Prasada had arrived and, in the theatre, 'Sharada' had come. My sight was restored to me by the grace of His Holiness and this is an incident that I simply cannot forget. I sought the blessings of His Holiness that He retain my sight till the completion of work at Kalady. He graced me that my sight would not fail even after the completion of the work at Kalady and would enable me to do many other good deeds also.

In 1965, at my request, His Holiness was pleased to come to Madras to be present and bless the Ati Rudra Mahayagna and Sahasrachandi Mahayagna celebrated at a site, then belonging to me, opposite my house. A few years before, when His Holiness had been there, and when He had been walking on that very site, I told Him that it was an unclean place which was not in proper repair as I did not know beforehand that His Holiness will come to that place. He remarked, standing under the plantain trees, ‘‘Why do you say so? It seems to be a very sacred place’’. This was in 1962, when we did not contemplate Ati Rudra Mahayagna. Subsequently, in 1965, the two Yagnas were performed in the site and Poorna Ahuti was over by noon. That evening there was a reception to His Holiness in which I read out the welcome address. The Maharaja of Mysore, the then Governor of Tamil Nadu, presided over the occasion. Just at the end of the address, without any previous thought, I dedicated the said site for temples to be constructed for Sri Vinayaka, Sri Sharadambal and Sri Bhagavatpadal and for a Pravachana Mandiram to be built adjacently. I did not know why I suddenly took a decision and came to know of that only at the end of my reading the address. Just after the function was over, His Holiness told me that only that afternoon He had been discussing with His Personal Assistant, Sri Upadhyaya, as to whether I would be willing to give that site for the purpose of putting up temples as it had become sanctified by the two Homas. The Personal Assistant appears to have told Him that it would be very expensive and that they should not mention the subject to me. Then both of them had dropped the matter. I explained to His Holiness that the thought had entered my mind suddenly that I should make this announcement. This was only because the same thought had occurred to His Holiness and further, my own mind had become sanctified with the reflection of the thought of His Holiness. This is the very site where the Sringeri Jagadguru Pravachana Mandiram together with the three shrines have been put up and dedicated one to Sri Vinayaka, one to Sri Sharadambal and one to Sri Bhagavatpadal, and the corporation has named the road as ‘Sringeri Math Road’.

My wife had a strong desire to prepare and offer a necklace of golden coins to Sringeri Sharadambal.She had even made a prayer to that effect in the Ambal temple at Madras.

I wondered how the money could be got, for a thousand sovereigns of gold were needed. I had written to His Holiness seeking His blessings. In response, Acharyal sent a Sri Mukham itself, stating that the task was a good and noble one and conveyed His complete blessings for its successful completion. I had given materials to a jeweller who, when I met him on a certain occasion, informed me that there was a shortage of a certain amount of gold. Immediately, my wife removed the necklace she was wearing and gave it. It appears that someone has reported this to His Holiness. When I went to Sringeri in September, I reported to His Holiness that only a small portion of the task remained and so it would be possible to offer the garland to Shardambal on the occasion of the Vardhanti of His Holiness that year (1969). His Holiness asked for a golden ‘Panchapatram’ to be brought and, over-riding my protest, gave it to me and asked for it to be employed. It roughly weighed twenty-eight sovereigns. In due course, the jeweller completed the preparation and found that a small amount of gold remained as residue. When the excess gold was weighed it was found to be twenty-eight sovereigns, the same amount that had been given to me by Acharyal. We made a small vessel employing the balance gold, offered it at the lotus feet of His Holiness and conveyed what had transpired. In response, Sri Mahasannidhanam narrated the following:

"A person sought permission from my Acharyal to tour various places and in response was given a Rupee. After completing his tour and spending a lot the man had one Rupee as balance and offered the same to Acharyal".

Quite often,when I am engaged in Japa, I suddenly feel that I should do something in a particular fashion, connected with Acharyal. Whenever I have conveyed the same to Him, He has invariably said that He too had felt the same way! Valmiki has stated that when there is great affection between two persons, what is in the heart of one becomes known to the other.

Ramanathapuram Sethupathi was desirous that His Holiness perform the Kumbhabhishekam of the Rameswaram Temple and in that connection approached me and we went to Acharyal and obtained His consent. Subsequently we got unexpected news that it would not be possible for Acharyal to perform the Kumbhabhishekam. Having the firm belief that one should act according to Acharyal's instructions I did not proceed further. There were only ten days for the Kumbhabhishekam, when around 11.30 at night I received a trunk call from Sringeri to the effect that Mahasannidhanam had decided to complete the Kumbhabhishekam on the scheduled day itself. As per the phone message I was to proceed to Sringeri. Arrangements were made in a great hurry, the tour commenced and Acharyal reached Rameswaram in a week. At this juncture, I received an ominous anonymous letter. It was stated therein that when Acharyal would climb the steps leading to the Vimanam they would give way. "Oh God! What shall I do?", was the thought that raced through my mind and I mentally prayed to His Holiness. I could not convey the information to Him directly. As I have great belief in the efficacy of the Vishnu Sahasranamam, I chanted it ten times and got up. A person came to me and introduced himself as one belonging to the police force. I immediately showed him the letter. Was it not Acharyal's grace which brought the man there at that time? The Kumbhabhishekam was completed without a hitch and I felt overjoyed and relieved at the end of the function.

When I conveyed the news to His Holiness,He replied, "Why were you worried unnecessarily when Sharadambal was there?". As on an earlier occasion I replied, "It is my ignorance that is chasing me"

On another occasion I lost my sight in the second eye. This time also I regained it by His grace.

In 1977, desirous of celebrating the Sashtiabdhapurthi of our Acharyal on a grand scale, I set my heart and soul to the task. By His grace, the donation inflow was rapid. The conduct of numerous Homas were planned but because of the incessant showers,the cement conduits at the Yagasalas were yielding. Alarmed, I sent a telegram to His Holiness who was then at Guntur. No sooner had the telegram reached Him than it stopped raining. During Acharyal's stay at Madras it was broadcast that a powerful cyclone would be hitting Madras in a few days. When I made this known to His Holiness He said, "Sharadambal is there. There is no cause for worry" As I expected, His words came true. The cyclone changed its course and proceeded North.

My grandfather had prepared my horoscope and also predicted the events of my life. According to it there was a great danger to my life in my seventy-second year. All the events in my life had, upto that period, perfectly coincided with the predictions. My faith in the horoscope caused me to transfer most of my responsibilities to others, as I approached the calamity period. On 12th August 1981 when I was participating in a function, I suddenly developed chest pain. I did not value it much. My doctor had come to invite me for a marriage and I was in Madras at that time. The next day I rang up my doctor and told him that I had planned to go to Sringeri. He told me to have a general check up before I left. I responded that I would not be able to come that day and that I could make it on 15th August, 1981. On examining me, the doctor said that a heart attack was in its evolution stage and that I had come on the right time. Within two hours of the diagnosis, I suffered an attack. Earlier, when the pain had occurred,I had prayed to His Holiness that I wished to see Him on my birthday, and thereafter I was unconcerned with what may transpire. It was the fruit of that prayer that took me to the doctor at the right time. I recovered. Afterwards, when I met His Holiness,I submitted that the life that I was leading after the attack was only an extension granted to me by Him. I prayed to Him that I would like to live only so long as I did something good. His Holiness has been compassionate to me beyond measure. On an occasion I sought to know the possible causes. In response, He said, "On seeing the Sun the lotus blooms and on beholding the Moon the moonstone melts". Narrating a verse to that effect, He asked me the cause of these events and I had no reply to give. I really doubt whether I am worthy of this natural compassion of His but it gives me great joy to know I am a recipient of His great grace.

SRIMATHI SUNDARA VALLI RAMAKRISHNAN

(Smt. Sundaravalli Ramakrishnan dwells at Madras with her husband, Sri Ramakrishnan, who is an employee of ICF, Madras. The entire family is devoted to Acharyal.)

Prior to Acharyal's proceeding to Kashi in 1977 for Annapurna Prathishta, I had an occasion to have His sacred Darshanam. A function had been arranged at Bangalore and a large crowd had assembled. Dark clouds blackened the sky and it appeared that it would rain cats and dogs. As the functions were taking place in the open, I remarked to my spouse, "We know that Acharyal stops rains as He wishes. Will He do so on this occasion?". As I was speaking, I beheld His Holiness looking up at the sky and joining His palms. The clouds began to retreat as if on a return march. It was surprising to see the entire sky clear up in a matter of five minutes. There was a downpour only after the function was over.

During one of our pilgrimages to Sringeri we had taken along with us a saree as our small contribution to Sri Sharadambal. At Sringeri, we had Darshanam of Sri Mahasannidhanam and prayed that the saree be adorned on Sri Sharada on the approaching Friday. It is worth mentioning here that the decoration for the chief deity at Sringeri is changed only on Tuesdays and Fridays. The particular Friday approached, but we were disappointed to note that Ambal was wearing some other saree and not the one which we had presented. We were scheduled to leave for home the next day but we had not mentioned anything to Acharyal, either about the saree or about our departure.

Meanwhile, Sri Mahasannidhanam, who went to the temple, noted that the saree given by us had not been utilised. He ordered that the deity be decorated the next day itself with the saree submitted by us. The news gladdened our hearts which melted at the thought of His considerate nature.

The following day, Saturday, we had a joyous Darshanam of Ambal and after that when we went for Darshanam of the Jagadguru, we were all the more delighted to be blessed with a picture of the Sri Chakram.

Once we had been to Sringeri during the Navarathri festival. Needless to say, a sea of humanity had gathered at Sringeri. Among the lakhs of people present, there was a student hailing from Malaysia. He hadanintense desire to get a pendant and for that purpose was wandering hither and thither, enquiring the people where he could get one. Finally, he was introduced to the Private Secretary to His Holiness, who told him that Acharyal alone could give it. That evening, many people turned up for Darshanam of Acharyal and one among them was that student. He was standing almost at the back of the huge crowd of devotees, but when Acharyal came, His watchful eyes noted the student. He called him to the fore and enquired as to which country he belonged and the purpose of his visit to Sringeri. Finally, though the student did not ask for it, Acharyal blessed him with a silver coin containing the inscription of Ambal. The student was in a state of ecstasy. Thus, Acharyal blessed him with what he desired in spite of the fact that neither he nor anyone else had informed Acharyal about his wish.

The sacred cow, Kamadhenu, merely gives whatever is asked for but our Mahasannidhanam fulfils even what is thought of.

SRI SHANKARAN

(Sri Shankaran is employed in the Unit Trust at Madras. Herein, he has collected and vividly portrayed some real life incidents relating to our Acharyal.)

My chittappa's son was desirous of joining the M.B.B.S. course. When he went to seek Acharyal's blessings His Holiness said that by Ambal's grace his wishes would materialise. On the first occasion he failed to get through the interview. The second time also he was unsuccessful. When His Holiness was approached He again said that the boy would be able to do M.B.B.S. Finally, my cousin joined the Indian Medicine College at Kilpauk. The course at that institution was not on par with M.B.B.S. When this information was conveyed to Acharyal He reasserted His old reply. We were unable to understand anything, but subsequent events provided the clarification.

Days passed. On an occasion,there was a strike at the Indian Medicine College. As a consequence,the Government passed an order that the course therein would be on par with M.B.B.S. Hence my cousin's desire came true. Indeed, how could the words of the Jagadguru go false? Some years ago, Acharyal camped for a couple of months at Madras. On the day of His departure, He was distributing Mantrakshata to all devotees. Because of the excessive crowd, there was a long serpentine queue. I was keen that Acharyal's gaze fall on me when I would receive Mantrakshata. Was I not expecting too much? Was He not in a great hurry? My turn came. Could not the knower of the three measures of time fathom my innermost thoughts? On seeing me, He not only gave me Prasada but also spared time to speak a few words. Even in trying circumstances He is ready to satiate us.

DEVI KRUPA

(Smt. Ramasubramanian is a good writer in Tamil and employs the pseudonym 'Devi Krupa'. Sri Ramasubramanian, a Chartered Accountant,has settled down at Sringeri and is serving the Sharada Dhanvanthri Hospital. Their elder daughter Dr. Subhalakshmi abandoned a lucrative job at Madras to serve as a Pediatrician in the Math hospital.)

We had been to Kashi for performing the annual Shraddham ceremony of my father-in-law. We thought of having Darshanam of Acharyal before returning to Madras. Opposite to the place where we were put up there was a temple. That night I had a vivid dream. Mahasannidhanam appeared in front of the temple and asked grimly, "Are you coming to Sringeri at this time?". Fearful that He might cancel our trip, I told Him, "We have purchased the tickets. Therefore kindly bless us". He rubbed His chin for a while and said, "Very well, come", and then disappeared. At the same time, my husband dreamt that I was being carried away by a river and that he was standing helpless. Having finished the ceremony at Kashi, we reached Sringeri. Though there was incessant rain, we were able to go over to Narasimhavanam and have Darshanam. I was taken aback when Acharyal kept His hands on His chin in the very same manner as in the dream, and also posed me the same question. That there was some import in His utterance became crystal clear the next day. I got into a boat along with some others to cross the river to Narasimhavanam. Inadequacy of space made my husband and other relatives stay back on the steps. They planned to cross over in the next trip. The boat had moved but little when it got caught in the forceful current. There were seven of us in the boat. The shaking of the boat sent our hearts racing. Some of the younger people were thinking of jumping into the river to save themselves. The ladies, inclusive of myself, stood helpless, overcome with trepidation. The boat-man jumped out, employed a rope and was somehow able to bring the boat to safety. When my eyes met those of my husband, we realised that what had been seen in the dream was no mere imagination. It was our Jagadguru's grace that averted the danger to my life.

When I was staying at Madras, a girl who lived near my place came to me and said,"I am having my examinations soon. This year my college studies are terminating. As I am very nervous, I request you to give me a photograph of Acharyal" She had been attending the Guru Puja that was taking place in my house on Sundays. I told her, "Come tomorrow morning before your examination and I will give you the photograph"

The girl arrived the next day in a frightful hurry and exclaimed, "It is getting rather late for me. Can I have the photo, please?". My son was seated in the Puja room engrossed in meditation. I was not 'Madi' and so could not take the photo from the upper shelf as I would touch him in the process. The girl needed the photo urgently and it was wrong on my part to deceive her. "Oh God! What am I to do?", I said to myself. Lo and behold! the photo slipped from the shelf and fell on the ground. At that juncture,the photo appeared to me as Mahasannidhanam Himself. The girl, who had watched the entire incident, was highly moved. She successfully passed her examination and got employment too.

It was a new moon day in the month of Adi. The time was around 3 a.m. At that time I had a dream. I saw a temple illuminated by numerous lamps. Within the temple were Sri Mahasannidhanam and a young child. They were conversing and Acharyal appeared to have great regard for her. I was standing amidst the crowd and witnessing the scene. Acharyal beckoned me and said, "I am going to perform 'Suvasini Puja' shortly and want you to come when the priest calls you". I was delighted. As curiosity got the better of me, I sought to know who the child was. "Sharada is her name", replied Acharyal. A little later the Puja commenced. During Naivedyam our Guru offered us milk, a small quantity of honey and some Pongal which was quite warm. Deeparadhana then took place. At that moment I woke up. Throughout the next day I kept ruminating about what I had seen. My husband gave me a patient hearing. At the end of it he titled me 'Swapna Sundari' (the dreaming beauty), saying that he had never heard of anyone dreaming up such a story.

The next night also Mahasannidhanam appeared in my dream. He was standing in a large hail by the side of a window and had a yellow shawl on Him. My husband and I stood in front of Him. Addressing my spouse He asked, "I asked you to come yesterday itself. Did you have any problem?" My husband, concerned about Acharyal's health, requested Him not to exert Himself by conversing. "Do not worry", responded His Holiness, "I am quite alright now" He disappeared and so did my dream. My husband took this dream more seriously than the previous one. A few days later I went to Bangalore for Acharyal's Darshanam. When I reached the Math premises, a Puja was coming to a close and Prasadas were being distributed. I was taken aback to note that items distributed were just what I had seen in my first dream.

Around 4 p.m. my daughter Subhalakshmi and I were called in. After making general enquiries about the welfare of my family, Acharyal asked me, "Have you been initiated into any Mantra?" Elated, I replied, "Lord! I am just an ignorant fool but I know that Acharyal (Rama) had blessed Sabari with devotion and Moksha. I will deem myself fortunate if Acharyal chooses to initiate me" The Sadguru replied, "You have been following Dharma and have brought up your children in a good way. Come tomorrow. I will initiate you into the Bala Tripurasundari Mantra" My eyes filled with tears of joy. Next, I began to describe my dreams to Him. As I began the narration of my second dream, He asked me to stop and, turning towards my daughter said, "Subha! I appeared in her dream wearing a yellow shawl" I was just stunned, to say the least. The next day, I had my initiation and left for Madras. A few months later, our family was fortunate enough to settle down at Sringeri.

SRI SANKARA NARAYANA SHARMA

(Sri Sankara Narayana Sharma of Madurai is familiarly known as Sankara Vadyar. He has done Veda Adhyayanam and is devoted to the Math.)

I have no competence to speak about the glory of our Acharyal, Sri Abhinava Vidyatheertha Mahaswamigal. I am experiencing His greatness and glory in their entirety.

One of my relatives suffered intensely on account of epilepsy. After Acharyal had given him a fruit as Prasada, the disease vanished.

On one occasion, the wife of a person belonging to the Postal Department was suffering a great deal. Due to this, there were some difficulties in the house. When doctors were consulted, it was found that the treatment would be very expensive. The family was not particularly interested in utilising the equally expensive services of Mantrikas either. The sick girl pointed to the photo of Paramacharyal and indicated that He should grace her. By chance, I visited their house. They told me that it had not been feasible for them to go to Sringeri. They sought my guidance as to the course of action they should resort to. I told them that they had absolutely no refuge other than our Acharyal. They prepared two slips and asked a child to pick one of them. The chosen piece of paper contained information to the effect that they should proceed to Sringeri. Hence, the entire family and I set out to the holy abode of Goddess Sharada. On reaching there, the girl, who was not speaking and appeared to be inert, prostrated before Acharyal. We conveyed the problem. In His benevolence, He remarked, "Now that you have come to Sringeri and the sacred presence of Goddess Sharada, your desire should be consummated". The next day, Acharyal gave the girl a fruit. Strangely, she, who had not been eating for the past fifteen days, cut and ate it. The matter of greater astonishment was that the dumbness gave way to eloquence. The family received permission to return.

About eight years ago, an astrologer had told me that either I or my wife would die in about two and a half years. As I believed that my Guru would protect me, I did not take any corrective steps. Approximately two years after the prediction, I was involved in an accident in which my leg was fractured. As I fell, I could only exclaim, "Sadguro Pahi (Oh Guru! Protect me)" Acharyal, who was camping at Tirunelveli, sent Prasada to the hospital where I was admitted. Till then, the doctors attending on me held the view that amputation of my leg was an absolute necessity. Strangely, after the receipt of Prasada, they changed their minds and said that the insertion of a plate would suffice. The surgery proceeded smoothly and now I am not only able to walk but can also cycle. I am protected by the armour of Acharyal's grace. That is a matter of certainty for me.

SRIMATHI JAYALAKSHMI VEDARAMAN

(Smt. Jayalakshmi describes herein how Acharyal's grace plays a major role in her life. Her husband Sri Vedaraman, who is a close devotee of our Guru, is running a press at Madras.)

When Acharyal had come to Madras in 1977, I went for Darshanam along with my eldest son, Shankar. He spoke to me with great compassion and sought to know about the welfare of my children. He spared around half an hour for me and along with Mantrakshata, gave me a plateful of vermillion, fruits, rock-sugar and turmeric. My son had been repeatedly unsuccessful in his B.Sc. examinations. Acharyal told him, "Get up early in the morning, pray to Ambal and then begin your studies. You will definitely be able to pass the examinations". On hearing these words of benediction, tears of joy filled my eyes.

The day before our Guru's Vardhanthi, which falls on Deepavali, my father-in-law lost consciousness and was admitted to a hospital. The doctors said that the chances of survival were slim and so telegrams were despatched to relatives. I felt dejected that I would not be able to have the good fortune of beholding Acharyal on the sacred Deepavali day. However, my enthusiasm drove me to Him. As I arrived, He had finished giving His audience and had also got up to go in. "I have come this far", I thought, "What a pity that I have not been able to do Namaskara". Acharyal, who had commenced walking, stopped unaccountedly, and waited for me to complete my Namaskaras, before proceeding. I gave vent to my feelings and posed my problem. He asked me to tarry for five minutes. Then, giving me Sharadambal's Kumkuma Prasada He said, "Do not worry. Everything will be alright!" Immeasurable is the power of His words! At the very instant Acharyal had pronounced His benediction, my father-in-law recovered consciousness in the hospital. The doctors were in for a pleasant surprise. In fact, confusion would be a better word to describe their reaction. They had earlier predicted that even if the comatose patient recovered, there would be brain damage and paralysis. Their predictions proved false by our Guru's grace. Due to financial difficulties it was difficult for us to perform Pada-Puja that year. In spite of this, our keenness to do it overrode other considerations. As if to chide us, Acharyal asked, "Why are you unnecessarily straining yourself?". He gave His own Padukas. The occasion has made an indelible impression in my mind and my joy knew no bounds. To date, I am unable to conceive of anything we have done to merit the good fortune bestowed on us.

My third son's Upanayanam was scheduled to take place at Sringeri on May 4th, 1978. That was to be my first visit to Sringeri. We had failed to make reservations in the bus from Bangalore to Sringeri and further, the money we had expected did not come. We were told that no accommodation was available. We prayed to our Guru for succour. Just prior to the departure of the bus, the conductor surprisingly told us, "There are a few seats available now. You can board the bus" Thus, he who had just a few minutes earlier told us that there were no seats, now extended this invitation. What else could be the cause but Acharyal's grace? When we had Darshanam the next day, Acharyal considerately said, "Oh! How many difficulties you have to put up with. Your mental courage made it possible"

My fourth son was rowdyish and disobedient. When informed of this, Acharyal held his hand and queried, "Now, will you behave well? Will you listen to the words of your parents?" From that day onwards his misbehaviour disappeared.

Once, when giving us Bhiksha Prasada, Acharyal blessed us with a Sri Chakram. I was very glad to note that it was a Friday, a day particularly auspicious for the worship of the Divine Mother. Our fourth son's Upanayanam had been scheduled for 8-6-80 and we left for Sringeri on the 6th. A telegram had been sent from the Math to the effect that we need not start. But, as our departure had preceded the arrival of the telegram, we were oblivious of it. On reaching Sringeri, we were told that Upanayanams should not be performed in that month. We conveyed to Acharyal that if the Sastras forbade Upanayanam at that time, we would abstain from doing it. We also told Him that we would abide by any decision of His. We decided to postpone the Upanayanam, but stayed on at Sringeri. After a while, Acharyal sent for my husband, consulted Sastric texts and Pandits, and concluded that there was no prohibition against the performance of the sacred-thread ceremony as far as the Tamilians were concerned. When this decision was taken, I was doing Japa at the Adhishtanam of Sri Chandrasekara Bharathi Mahaswamigal. Acharyal came there around noon and told me, "The investiture can be done. My blessings are there" How much must be Acharyal's compassion that, considering our difficulties in postponing the ceremony, He took special steps for examining the Sastras and then gave us permission!

Our fifth son's Upanayanam was fixed for 8-5-81. We had sent money to my son's friend to make the bus reservations at Bangalore. In the meantime, my sister-in-law's son wrote to us that he would be booking the tickets for us. So, we wrote to our son's friend that he need not proceed to book tickets. On reaching Bangalore, we were dismayed to note that our sister-in-law's son had not made any arrangements for our journey. Helplessly, we reconciled to the postponement of our journey. Happy findings, however, awaited us, for, our son's friend arrived with tickets. By Guru's grace, our letter had not reached him.

SRI P.N. NEELAKANTAN

(Sri P.N. Neelakantan, who is affectionately called ‘Professor’ by his friends, is a staff member in Government College of Technology, Coimbatore. He did his B.E. and M.E. degrees at the College of Engineering, Guindy, Madras. A staunch devotee of Acharyal, ‘Prof’ is the author of many books on Him.)

Well known is the maxim, "Man proposes, God disposes" It appears to me that nothing can prove this proverb better than my own experience. I was doing my third year in the engineering course. My mind became drawn towards a classmate of mine who was devoted to our Jagadguru. After sometime, I found another friend of mine, who had associations with him, developing spiritually. The sudden change of that boy should itself be considered an achievement. But my mind was stubborn. "Nobody can change me", I bragged. "You are wrong", replied my classmate, "If Acharyal wills, anything can take place. If such is the resolve of His Holiness, you will dedicate yourself to Acharyal in a months time" I took the issue as a challenge. Leave alone the Jagadguru, I knew nothing even about Sringeri. That being the case, it seemed meaningless to me that within a month I would become a devotee of the Jagadguru. As I said earlier, "Man proposes, God disposes" What happened was surprising to me. Yes indeed, the power of God is beyond limits. I not only changed, but exactly a month after my challenge, vowed to dedicate myself to Acharyal. Another strange feature is that till then I had not even seen Acharyal! Thereafter, I have been having His Darshanam on numerous occasions. Now He means everything to me and I cannot even think of my existence without Him. When I think of the various ways in which Acharyal has graced me, it makes me full of joy.

Not being satisfied with the extent of devotion to Him, I once approached Him to seek His blessings to improve it. Benevolently He graced me and I did notice a marked increase in my devotional attitude. Acharyal has given me many advices, by acting in consonance with which everlasting Bliss can be had. After having His Darshanam, I have returned very contented.

It is a matter of pride for me that He has manifested His powers through me (I do not know whether this pride is justifiable or not). My final year examinations were over and only the practicals remained. A classmate of mine had to repeat a fourth year practical examination. Perhaps because of the fact that I had changed, he believed that whatever I said would fructify. The day before his examination he came to me and said, "Please point out what experiment I will have to do in the examination. I am dependent on you and will be preparing only for what you say". I kept on evading but he persisted in his attempts. Finally I closed my eyes and thought deeply of Acharyal. A particular experiment came to my mind. Confidently, I told him that that was what he would encounter the next day. The boy got that very experiment and completed it successfully. The news of my prediction coming true spread like wildfire. Other friends started coming to me asking what they would be getting in the forthcoming final year practical examinations. The seed of egoism had been sown in my mind, but at that juncture I did not realise it. This time also I agreed to predict. Unlike last time, when I had been absolutely certain and had prescribed only one experiment, this time I gave around five choices to each person. Considering that there were only about ten experiments, I was on very safe grounds. "We shall see the results of the examination", I thought and waited. A great shock awaited me. Not even one of the students got anyone of the five choices I had given. I had predicted five experiments out of ten for each student. Hence, the probability of not one of the questions appearing was 0.5 . Twenty such predictions had been made and hence, the probability of not one correct guess accruing was half (0.5)²⁰ ≏ 0.0000009. That is to say, the odds were less than one in a million against me, and still I had failed. I became most thankful to Acharyal for having nipped my egoism in the bud.

On another occasion, by Acharyal's grace I had a wonderfully pleasant experience. At that time, having completed my studies, I had taken up the teaching profession at Coimbatore. I was returning from college for lunch and was travelling on my bicycle. My mind was calm and light. Suddenly I had a vision of Sri Mahasannidhanam. Wherever I turned, I saw only Him. Though I was beholding Him, I was able to perceive other objects also. I was able to see the road in front of me, the traffic on it, as well as the surroundings. Further, I was able to ride the bicycle in accordance with the traffic regulations. But everything that was external appeared to me to be on par with a mere dream. Acharyal's form alone seemed to matter and it remained steady and clear for around twenty minutes. The entire day passed with my mind immersed in great joy.

Acharyal has graced me with His compassion, many a time and in many a way. Once, when I was at Sringeri, my friend came to me and said that Acharyal had instructed that I should immediately proceed for food. The surprising point is that Acharyal had, by Himself, divined that I had not taken my meals till then and had sent my companion to call me. I hope and pray that I may make myself worthy of the great blessings of our Guru.

SRIMATHI GANGA BHAGIRATHI NATARAJAN

(Smt. Natarajan is at present living in Hosur with her husband. Sri K.S. Natarajan, better known in Math circles by the name 'Kuwait Natarajan', is not only a competent engineer but a competent devotee too. Smt. Natarajan vies with her husband in her attachment and service to our Acharyal. Their children also are close devotees of the Math.)

I beheld Acharyal for the first time in 1957 during a palanquin procession at Ambasamudram (in Tirunelveli district). He initiated me into a Mantra in 1965, on the day of the commencement of an Ati Rudram. My husband and I regard His Holiness as our sole refuge and we have found His grace suffusing every aspect of our life.

Years ago, the Upanayanam of my younger son, Kannan, who is currently an officer in the Indian Overseas Bank, was performed at Sringeri in accordance with Acharyal's instructions. At that time, my husband was unemployed and the sudden receipt of money which enabled the conduct of the function was only due to Acharyal's grace. In the course of the function, when Acharyal's Prasada, in the from of a cloth, was being put on the young Brahmachari, Acharyal Himself came on to the scene. Our direct perception of the living God is something that is evergreen in my memory. In 1968, my husband was transferred to Kuwait, but permission was granted only for him to proceed. He was in a confused state of mind. Acharyal had completed His North Indian tour and was camping at Bangalore. A large crowd was present. In spite of this, He made kind enquiries and gave His blessings. As a result thereof, permission was received from the office for both of us to proceed to Kuwait.

I think it was around August 1970 that I had been to Acharyal to speak to Him about the marriage of my first daughter, Sowbhagyavati Kanthimathi. Acharyal gave her initiation into a Krishna Mantra and blessed that she would be married into a very good family. Within three months of her doing the Japa, her wedding took place with great pomp and show. Her in-laws are very well to do people and are also great devotees of Sringeri Math.

In 1972, there was some delay in my spouse returning from abroad. A war was in progress too. Being very frightened, I sent word to Acharyal through a Math official. Within a month, my husband returned to India, safe and sound. We immediately proceeded to Sringeri. There, we were dumb-struck when Acharyal said to my husband, "She had prayed for your safe return and I too had done the same".

In 1975, my husband lost his job. We went to Sringeri with very great difficulty. His Holiness blessed us with Mantropadesa. Gradually, all the money that was due to us came to our hands. When my husband left for a foreign country in 1978, it became imperative to sell our joint-house. I moved over to a rented place, but decided to build what is our present house at Madras. Acharyal had personally come to the plot and blessed it. Later, He said that He Himself would abide in the house and graced that the house be named 'Vidya Vilasam'. When the Grahapravesam was nearing, we had a lot of arrangements to make. As my husband and I were returning after making some purchases, our autorickshaw overturned and both of us fell out. With jewellery and a cash of Rs.2,500/— in my hand, I lay on the ground,injured. My husband was sprawled unconscious. In great trepidation, I screamed and started shouting Acharyal's name. He had heard. Suddenly a car came that way. A couple, who were its occupants, got out, made enquiries and splashed some water on my husband. A little later, he opened his eyes. They then took us in their car and dropped us at home. Thus, even in trying situations, if we call our Acharyal succour is on hand. The mode of His coming to our rescue, of course, may vary and another incident in my life testifies to this.

Acharyal had given me some sacred items, such as coins with Ambal's image engraved on them. He left Madras on December 26, 1977 for Ranipet. I suddenly noticed that my sacred possessions had been stolen from my bag. I rushed to Sri V.R. Swamy's house on Poonamallee High Road where Acharyal was halting a while on His way. As He emerged from the house, I made known my plight. "Do not bother", He reassured. On reaching Ranipet, He sent the appropriate coins through a messenger. How considerate! I pray that generation after generation we may be devoted to His Holiness and do service to the Math.

SRI DURAI RAJAN

(Sri Durai Rajan belongs to Krishnarayapuram. Herein he explains the power of Acharyal's words and grace.) Years ago, Navarathri celebrations were taking place at Dharmatma Sri Vaidya Subramaniya Iyer's house in Acharyal's august presence. It was Vijaya Dashami day and around twelve noon. I asked Acharyal's permission to depart the next day. The Jagadguru told me that I could leave later and not next day. But since I had earlier booked my ticket, I boarded the bus and started for home. The bus crossed the city limits. I developed very severe fever. By the time I reached my house, I was in a very sorry state of affairs. The doctor who examined me said that I was suffering from typhoid. I asked my brother Jayaraman to write to Acharyal begging for forgiveness for having disobeyed His command. Meanwhile, at Madras, Acharyal had gone to (the tennis player) Sri Ramanathan Krishnan's house. There, of His own accord, He called a relative of mine and said, "Durai Rajan is not doing well. Take this Prasada for him". At my place the fever vanished without a trace. After this incident I made it a point never to return home without the permission of His Holiness.

There have been occasions when His Holiness has suddenly asked me, "Are you going today?", and then given Mantrakshata. I might have originally thought of staying ten days more. On going home because of the Mantrakshata having been given, I have invariably found some urgent work awaiting me.

Some years ago, my brother Jayaraman was involved in a major bus accident in which the vehicle fell into a ditch which was over thirty feet deep. He sustained grievous injuries in his hands and legs. I wrote a detailed letter to Acharyal and sent it to Rajapalayam where the Jagadguru was camping. On reaching Madurai, Acharyal called Sri Raghavaiah, who was familiar to my brother, and gave Prasada which was to be delivered in person. It was rumoured that my brother would be crippled for life. One night, he had a dream in which he beheld Acharyal gently stroking his wounded legs. In a short while he completely recovered without any residual trace of the injury. Even the doctors were surprised.

SRIMATHI RAMALAKSHMI VISWANATHAN

(Smt. Ramalakshmi Viswanathan belongs to Gopalasamudram and was born in a family of close devotees of the Sringeri Math. Her devotion to Acharyal is remarkable and she pines to be ever at Acharyal's lotus feet. Apart from being herself very devoted, she strives to induce similar devotion in her children. She and her husband are stationed at Madras.)

Numerous are the incidents that have taken place in my life due to the grace of Acharyal. I desire to make known how Acharyal gave a gift of life to my niece.

My sister, who lives in Arisekere with her engineer husband, has a daughter. This incident took place when the girl was eight years old. For one week she had excruciating headache and was running temperature. All treatment proved to be of no avail. One day her temperature rocketed to alarming values. Her nails became blue and she slipped into unconsciousness. My parents had been to Sringeri at that time for witnessing Acharyal's Chaturmasya Sankalpa We booked a phone call and conveyed that as the child was serious it would have to be admitted to a hospital in Bangalore. My parents were asked to collect Prasada from Acharyal and send it through my youngest sister who was with them. When Acharyal emerged from His night Puja, even before my parents had spoken of anything He said, "Send this Prasada. Nothing will happen to the child".

My youngest sister came to Arisekere. The Prasada was applied on the child, who was then taken to Bangalore. At that time, her limbs were stiff and she was in a coma. At Bangalore, the doctors said that as we had come too late there was absolutely no chance of survival. They were even unwilling to admit the girl into the hospital and so influence had to be used. Finally the doctor said, "I feel it is brain fever. If she survives till tomorrow morning, we will test her".

Throughout the night the child remained motionless. At 4 O'clock in the morning she unexpectedly got up and said, "Mahasannidhanam sat by my side and stroked me". She narrated that Acharyal had told her, "Do not worry. Nothing will happen". While saying so she appeared quite fresh. At that juncture the doctor, who had left the previous night, arrived with another physician. He was stunned to see the child's condition. Holding my sister's hand he remarked, "It is only the God whom you worship who has saved your child. Last night I was absolutely sure that the child would not live. I was irritated with you for having brought her so late and that is why I went away. But when I went home I could not stop thinking of the child. That is why I have come here with another doctor. It is highly surprising that even her legs are alright and that she is sitting up". After recovery, only slight headache was the residue. One day, we took her to Sringeri and informed Acharyal what had transpired. He took her on His lap, stroked her from head to foot and taught her a Sloka. From that day the headache vanished without a trace and she is doing fine.

When Acharyal had come to Madras in 1977, He was to visit the Vinayakar Temple in K.K.Nagar on December twelfth. My house is situated on the same street as the temple and Acharyal would have to cross it before going there. The temple authorities had decided to offer Purnakumbha near my house. We too were standing to independently offer Purnakumbha and were anxious that He should visit our house. I had made arrangements but the doubts, "Will He agree to come? Is it proper for me to ask Him?", kept nagging me. I was not courageous enough to take no for an answer. Having prostrated before His photograph and prayed to Him mentally, I tensely waited. As soon as Acharyal arrived, Purnakumbha was offered to Acharyal on behalf of the temple. "How far is the temple?", He queried. Someone suggested that Acharyal could go by car and so He entered the automobile. I ran up and conveyed my desire to a disciple present there. Acharyal asked, "What is it?". Then, He got down, walked into my house and graced it. He has subsequently made references to this visit. Thousands are the homes He has graced, but He remembers this short visit. We still rejoice and contemplate on this.

SRI MUTHUSUNDARAM

(Sri Muthusundaram is employed at the Madras office of 'The Hindu', the popular English daily. He has been connected with the Math for the past many years.)

In 1963, it was around the time of Kumbhabhisheka: of the Adhishtanamof Sri Chandrasekara Bharati Mahaswamigal. The day was Friday. His Holiness started for having Darshanam of Sri Sharadambal. His attendant was holding a delightful white umbrella over Him. On seeing Him, a thought arose in my mind, "Even Maharajas serve His Holiness. What can I, a very insignificant one, do for Him?".

I remembered a story. Bhagavan Sri Krishna started for a stroll with Arjuna. On the way, they encountered mountains and mountains of flowers. "What are these flowers and whence have they come?", asked Arjuna. "These are the flowers offered mentally by Bheemasena, in the course of his worship of Lord Shiva", replied the Lord. Recollection of the story sank the glory of Manasika Puja (Mental worship) into my mind. I imagined that lotuses were blossoming and offered them at the lotus feet of Sri Mahasannidhanam. I did this mental Archanam from the time He started from Narasimhavanam, till He returned to it after visiting the various temples. Near Satchidananda Vilas, His Holiness turned towards me, smiled and majestically entered.

In the evening, I finished my Sandhyavandanam and went for Darshanam. He sent for me. When I devoutly sat down, He held a silver coin of Sharadambal in His hands and closed His eyes for a few minutes in meditation. His normally bright face appeared all the more lustrous. Beholding the spiritual splendour gave a joy that has to be experienced to be understood. He gave me the coin as also Mantrakshata.

As I proceeded to the Adhishtanam of Sri Chandrasekara Bharati Mahaswamigal, I was fixing the sacred coin on my Yajnopaveetham. Sri Krishnaswamy Aiyar (later Swami Jnananantha Bharati) asked me what I was trying to wear. Before I could give a detailed account of what had happened, he asked, "Did you do any Pada Puja? This pendant is given only to those who perform it", he continued. I was perplexed and confined myself to narrating the mental worship that I had done in the morning. "Yes", he replied, "It is the fruit of that worship which you have got now. Cannot our God-like Acharyal, who can fulfil what is in the minds of those who are thousands of miles away, bestow the results of what you did in His presence? This is what He had done". The import of Acharyal's action sank home. After that, I have noticed that whenever I pray to Him with a heart full of devotion, I invariably get what I want. I have even spoken to my friends about this.

A friend of mine told me that two horoscopes had come for his daughter and were shown to astrologers. Because of the diversity of opinions expressed by them he was dissatisfied and unhappy. "Why are you worrying?" I asked, "Devotees of our Acharyal need have no care, for He takes care of them" At that time, a peal of bells was heard. I told my friend that this auspicious omen was itself a forerunner of the divine grace he was going to receive. He went home in peace. In a matter of days his daughter's wedding took place and I am seeing her leading a happy married life.

On a Shankara Jayanthi day at Madras, Acharyal gave me a beautiful picture of Sri Shankara Bhagavatpadal. I had it framed and kept it with me. On the lapse of a few years I was pained to note that the colours had faded. A few days after the rise of such an emotion I went to Sringeri. When I received Mantrakshata, Acharyal gave me an identical picture. This photo, in spite of the passage of years, remains exactly as when it was given to me. When Acharyal was in Madras, I, with eleven others, started from Triplicane to hear His discourse in Ananthapadmanabha Swamy Temple at Adyar. The Anugraha Bhashanam was at 6 p.m. and the time of our departure was 5.30 p.m. We had planned to catch the bus going to Adyar along the beach but learnt that it had been diverted. Private vehicles were however allowed to ply along that route. Some others, who were with me, began questioning, "We must go on time. What shall we do?" "We shall all pray to Acharyal with a single mind. A way will be found", I said. No sooner had we began our prayer than a private bus came along. All of us were permitted to board it and it started. We reached our destination in time and were able to listen to Acharyal's speech and return home happily.

One night I tossed about restlessly in bed, unable to sleep. I meditated upon Acharyal and gradually drifted of into a siesta. I had a dream in which I beheld a place I had not witnessed before. I saw a river flowing into a Mandapam, with the waters filling up small ponds and tanks that had been built there. On bathing in the waters I perceived a beautiful temple slightly below ground level.

Two days later I asked my cousin, "Acharyal is camping at Ujjain. Shall we go for Darshanam?". On his agreeing, both of us started the next day itself. On reaching Ujjain, I beheld what I had seen in my dream but was unable to locate the temple. After having Darshanam I conversed with a devotee. He told me that Acharyal Himself had said that there had been a Surya temple there. I was overjoyed that Acharyal had shown me apriori the surroundings of the place where He was camping. As it was Chaturmasyam time, Acharyal was expounding Bhagavatpadal's Bhashyam to the assembled Sanyasis. I approached a Pandit and enquired whether we would also be permitted to hear the holy lessons. Acharyal granted us permission and so we had the privilege of hearing the elucidation from His divine lips. His beautiful exposition of the import of the Upanishadic utterance , "Satyam Jnanam Anantham Brahma", (the Supreme is existence, consciousness and unlimited), still lingers afresh in my mind. It is my sincere prayer that by His grace the realisation of the Truth shall shineforth in me.

SRI O. RAMASWAMY

(Sri O. Ramaswamy has been employed in the Math since the time of our Paramacharyal. He has had the good fortune of even serving Acharyal as a personal attendant.)

On account of the Punyam of many births I have had an occasion to serve Acharyal. I wish to narrate a few incidents that occurred in my life.

In 1964, Acharyal was touring Tamil Nadu. At that time, my wife was pregnant. The period of delivery was approaching and there was nobody in Sringeri to help her. For my part, I was with Acharyal, serving Him in the camp. I explained my position to Him. Being an ocean of mercy, He readily permitted me to go home and asked, "How many children do you have?". I answered Him and said that all were girls. "You have served our Acharyal", said our Guru, "May a son be born to you this time" I was overjoyed. Have the blessings of His Holiness ever gone in vain? My wife delivered a male child. Incidentally, that was the only time I had male progeny. After that also, only girls were born to me.

Days passed. There once occurred a difference of opinion between myself and some other employee of the Math. Prompted by others and incited by anger, I decided to quit my job. Acharyal sent for me to enquire about my problem. But who has been spared by fate? I ignored the call. Even now, when I think of the state of mind that was prevalent at that time, I find it very painful. I had all along been protected by Acharyal. Now that I had left Him, problems started cropping up. My income was insufficient and mental tranquility was lost. I did endeavour hard to improve the situation but none of my efforts bore fruit.

With the passage of days, my mind became clear. I decided to seek forgiveness from Acharyal. He kindly recruited me again. After that, my life blossomed like flowers in spring. In quick succession, four of my daughters were married. The local people were surprised and thought, "How is this Ramaswamy able to perform so many marriages in succession?". I know that the sole reason was Acharyal's grace.

SRI J.SAIRAMAN

(Sri Sairaman is an engineer employed in Hindustan Computers Ltd., as a programmer. He had a brilliant academic record in the course of which he came into contact with Acharyal. The story of the transformation of this Vaishnavite from atheism to firm faith in God and Acharyal is sure to stir the hearts of many. Sri Sairaman is not an arm chair devotee and has done a great deal by way of service to Acharyal, though his humility causes him to stay away from the limelight.)

I saw God-fearing men being subjected to various trials and confirmed-atheists leading happy lives. I started hating conventional views and was slowly attracted by atheistic views. I stopped visiting temples and performing Sandhyavandanam etc. I used to turn my face away from temple deities and denounce Sanyasis and pious men. Once in 1977, Sringeri Acharyal visited a temple that was very near the flat in which I was living at that time. Even though my mother persuaded me several times to go for His Darshanam, I openly denounced Him and refused to go anywhere near Him. Then, somewhere in 1979, I met a senior, who is a great devotee of Sringeri Acharyal, in my college. At first, a few friends of mine and I, who also held a similar view, used to make fun of our senior for his orthodox look. The above mentioned senior used to discuss a lot, with my friend, regarding spiritual matters. I perceived changes in the ways of my friend and slowly he became a disciple of Sringeri Acharyal. But still, I could not convince myself completely and had some doubts uncleared. For no reason that I could state, I visited Sringeri in the middle of 1979. There, I had Darshanam of Sringeri Acharyal, whom I had denounced earlier. After that visit, for no reason that I could find, I not only started performing Sandhyavandanam but also started a little bit of meditation. I have had a few dreams of Acharyal and each time after the dream I have noticed my mind calming down a lot. Invariably, meditation used to pick up a lot after such dreams. A few months back, due to some reasons, I became extremely depressed and what little meditation I was doing hit the rock bottom. The depression continued for several weeks and I became desperate. Then, suddenly one day, I had a dream in which Mahasannidhanam gave Theertha Prasada to me. Strangely, the next morning, the mind had calmed down a lot and suddenly I was able to meditate. For the first time in my life, I started meditating for more than an hour both in the morning and evening. This state of affairs continued for more than 2 months and subsequently it again hit the rock bottom. I am eagerly expecting to have such dreams as only then my meditation will really pick up!

Once when I was at Sringeri, my father, who was in Ahmedabad at that time, was hospitalised and a telegram to that effect reached me. I decided to leave Sringeri that night and I was waiting to inform the same to Acharyal. As soon as Acharyal spotted me, even before I could explain, He asked me whether I was planning to leave that night. He gave me Kumkuma Prasada and gave His blessings for the early recovery of my father.

SRIMATHI VAIKUNTAM ANANTHARAMA SESHAN

(Smt.Vaikuntam is a close devotee of Acharyal. She and her late husband Sri Anantharama Seshan settled down at Sringeri around two decades ago. Having accompanied Acharyal on His tours, the spiritually inclined couple keenly observed many incidents. Herein she gives a vivid portrayal of some of the aspects of Acharyal's personality and divinity.)

My husband was working as Deputy Accountant General in the Post and Telegraphs Department. Our only son met with a fatal accident near Jamshedpur in the year 1961. "Why should I spend my time earning now?", thought my husband. Hence, though he had eight years of service left he resigned his job. A year after our son's death, we went to Sringeri. At Acharyal's suggestion we resolved to settle down there. Acharyal was observing Chaturmasyam on the northern bank of the river Tunga. We were provided temporary accommodation at a Chatram (which was subsequently converted into a girls high school).

On the completion of the Chaturmasyam period, Acharyal was scheduled to go over to Narasimhavanam. "You have come to stay with Me", said Acharyal, "and so you too can come over to the other side". He had selected a house for us (where He had stayed for sometime when Paramacharyal was alive). Acharyal's Personal Assistant, Sri Padmanabha Upadhyaya,pointed out that the house was not ready for occupation as it was in a dilapidated condition with lack of amenities like electricity and lavatory. There was no other accommodation available in Narasimhavanam, for the area was a mere forest. Out of extreme compassion for us, Acharyal ordered that immediate attention be paid to the house and it be got ready within 24 hours. Sri Upadhyaya put in great effort and so we were able to move in the next day itself.

In January 1964, His Holiness set out on an 'All India' tour. We accompanied the camp in a car which my husband purchased. He constantly employed a driver. One day Acharyal asked, "Will it not be easier for you to learn driving yourself?". "No", replied my husband, "for then I will be more involved with my car, in the role of a mechanic, than I shall be with Acharyal". Acharyal was amused and left the matter at that. When Acharyal was camping at a village before His going to Kasi , a message was received requesting Him to cancel His visit to Varanasi because of an impending blackout. Acharyal had, however, resolved not to return South India without visiting. Kasi Could His determination ever be in vain? The very next day the manager of the Kasi-based Annapoorna Company came to perform Pada Puja. He not only agreed to make arrangements for the visit, but also for conducting a Vidvat Sadas. The camp moved to Kasi as scheduled. Astonishingly, the blackout was lifted on the day Acharyal reached the holy city. Vidvat Sadas was also conducted. The Pandits of Varanasi were spellbound by our Jagadguru's intricate knowledge of the subtle nuances of the Sastras.

A landslide between Joshi Math and Badripur tended to dislocate the tour programme of Acharyal who was on His way to Badripur. He was, however, keen on proceeding. What He wills must come true and so a contractor and his wife came for Darshanam. The contractor readily agreed to solve the landslide problem. He requested Acharyal to proceed to Inampet. From there he assured that he would provide his vehicles. The plan was successfully executed.

My husband, I and several others accompanied Acharyal to Kedarnath. It was past 7 p.m. and pitch dark by the time Acharyal neared the camp. Another lady and I were somewhat separated from the rest of the party. Our Guru has great concern for those who depend on Him. So He started enquiring about us and asked whether we had any escort. When someone said, "God is their escort", Acharyal repeated the words with great vehemence. Immediately, flashes of lightning were seen in succession. The consecutive flashes provided us the illumination to join the main party.

My husband and I went for a bath in the Ganga. He fell into the waters and almost got drowned. I got frightened and began to perform Japa. My husband was able to gain control over the situation and emerge of his own accord. When I narrated this incident to Acharyal, He remarked, "I had come there at that time". This accounted for the fact that my husband was suddenly able to overcome his plight.

My husband once underwent a major operation to reduce a fracture in his leg. Just before the surgery, I received Prasada and blessings from Acharyal. That night, the operation was performed. The surgeon wanted to stay back. Though I tried to dissuade him, he stuck to his decision. It was only in the morning that he told me, "The pulse rate was dangerously high at night. Only now it has improved". Thus Acharyal's grace saw the situation through. In fact, later Acharyal said, "I had told Chandramoulees wara that I wanted Seshan to walk normally and that I did not regard it as proper to abandon one who had come to Me".

Acharyal once planned to visit Narasimha Parvata where Nrisimha Bharathi Mahaswamigal had performed protracted penance. I wanted to accompany Him. He initially dissuaded us as it was raining heavily and the path was arduous. Finally, however, He gave permission. On the way, Acharyal performed Puja at the Rishya Sringa temple in Kigga and gave my husband Prasada. All of us reached the summit and stayed there for the night. At 3.00 p.m. the next day, everybody was ready todescend. Ominous dark clouds began to gather and a downpour was expected at any moment. "Let us start

Acharyal. Hence,all of a sudden, water started gushing out and so there were no hindrances.

When Acharyal was travelling in West Bengal, He was to cross the Hoogly between Kharagpur and Calcutta. Unsuitable water levels made it impossible to cross on schedule. A bridge was under construction and the Engineer-in-charge was stationed there. Acharyal was requested to camp there itself for the night and leave the next day when conditions were expected to be more conducive for ferrying. The Engineer represented that the spanning of the river was posing a great problem. In spite of care the bridge had collapsed twice. Acharyal gave His blessings. Thereafter ,there were no difficulties and the bridge put up then, stands to this day.

Acharyal has taken care not only of our physical comforts but more so of our spiritual betterment. He has initiated my husband and me into Mantras and also repeatedly cleared our doubts regarding meditation. In spite of His tight schedule He has taken Vedanta classes for us. Texts, such as Panchadasi have been expounded by Him to us in an extremely lucid manner. Many are the times when I have found some texts difficult to comprehend. On conveying this to Him, He has said, "Read it now. It will be clear". Thereafter,I have had no difficulty in comprehending the import,despite my inadequate knowledge of Sanskrit.

To me He is God incarnate and I pray that He bless me with liberation and true devotion to His lotus feet.

SRI B. RAMAIAH

(The following is based on an essay in the Kannada book, 'Jagadguru'.) Our Acharyal can bring rain and remove droughts whenever He wishes. I have seen with my own eyes one such incident. During His South Indian tour, Acharyal, started from Nagercoil to Padai, my native village. At that time our village had severe drought and famine. Rains had failed for three consecutive years. Surely, we would have to arrange for water during Acharyal's visit. What to do? This thought also troubled us.

News came about Acharyal's departure from Nagercoil. Immediately, rainbearing clouds started collecting and in no time we received copious rain. All the tanks got filled up. When Acharyal arrived, the sky was clear and the people gratefully offered their salutations to Him.

SRI AGARAM RANGIAH

(The sequel is based on an article in the Kannada book, ‘Jagadguru’ )

Once there was a controversy over a piece of land that had been handed over by the Mysore Corporation to the Math. The palace people contended that the land belonged to the palace. When this matter was brought to Acharyal's attention He said, "If that land really belongs to the palace, return it without any hesitation" This shows His keen sense of justice.

After verification by officials, it was found that the site originally belonged to the corporation and so the dispute could be settled. To manage the properties of the Math in Mysore, prominent devotees prayed to Acharyal to nominate committee members from the Math. Immediately, Acharyal questioned, "Do you people not belong to Math? What made you to consider yourself different from it?’’. The stunned devotees had a glimpse of how Acharyal looks upon the devotees.

SRI P.S. VENKATASUBBA RAO

(Sri Venkatasubba Rao is a rare type of person. Though engaged in his duties in the estates of Mysore Amalgamated, he remains unaffected, as a lotus leaf by water. Acharyal Himself has frequently said that Sri Venkatasubba Rao is constantly centred on the Self. He belongs to a family that has long connections with the Sringeri Math. For his part, he has been repeatedly carrying out many tasks to aid the Math. It is hoped that his contact with Acharyal, as described in the sequel, will engender spiritual propensities in the interested reader.)

My father and uncle were employed in the Math even in Paramacharyal’s time and we stayed at Vidyaranyapuram, near Sringeri. I was around nine years old when Acharyal was initiated into Sanyasa. I had the occasion to witness the ceremony. The sight of Acharyal seated motionless on the Vyakhyana Simhasanam, with a Saligramam on His head, and Paramacharyal offering worship is still vivid my mind’s eye.

I was studying at Bangalore when Acharyal came there for a couple of years for studying. When He returned to Sringeri, with a halt at Arisikere, I accompanied the camp. In 1939, I was present when the Kumbhabhishekam was performed at Bangalore Shankara Math. Both Paramacharyal and Acharyal graced the occasion after which Acharyal returned to Sringeri and Paramacharyal proceeded to Kalady.

After studies I took up employment. Prakash Agencies Ltd., were the managing agents of Mysore Amalgamated and I worked as a Manager. My headquarters were at Bangalore but I had to frequently go to the estates comprising 360 acres. I began to get dissatisfied with my conditions of work, for I found the environment non-traditional. Dejected, I sought Acharyal's advice. "Do not quit your job", He instructed, "for if you do so now, you will stand to lose not only materially but also spiritually". I abided by the suggestion. The management changed and the official climate improved to my satisfaction. In fact, to this day I am doing the same job, but of course, my designations have changed.

My father-in-law's younger brother had built a house at Bangalore. He wanted a Lingam for his Puja and approached me. I left for Sringeri and placed the request before Acharyal. His Holiness went upstairs and brought two Lingams. One was a Spatika (crystal) Bana Lingam,while the other was a Narmada Lingam. He gave me the first and said, "Worship it. You will get Jnanam". The second one was to be given to Sri N. Ramasastry. What induced Acharyal to act as He did is unknown to me. I commenced daily worship of the Lingam. As for Sri N. Ramasastry, he is doing fine in a materialistic sense.

Later, I felt an urge to have some traditional lessons from Acharyal. I went to Sringeri and made known my desire. Right away, His Holiness agreed and said that He would begin the lesson at three O' clock in the afternoon. Some Sanyasis and Pandits also came for the classes. The text taken for exposition was Dakshinamurthy Stotram of Bhagavatpadal. Having given a lucid exposition of the first verse, Acharyal decided to explain the second verse on the next day. Actually He was having a sore throat. Still, He chose to teach me saying, "I have a sore throat. But you have come all the way from Bangalore for this. Hence I will teach".

In the course of the lessons, an aged Sanyasi by name Shankarananda put some questions which were based on Tarka (the science of logic). Acharyal said, "These lessons are meant for Venkatasubba Rao. Hence I am giving only those details that will benefit him. Tarka is not important for him. If you seek to understand the text from the standpoint of Tarka,then I am willing to explain that one point itself for 14 years giving a different interpretation on each day".

This shows how Acharyal is always willing to cater to the requirements of the questioner. On the third day, Acharyal said, "This is enough. In fact what I taught you on the first day was itself sufficient for you. I took up the second verse on the subsequent day to ward off any possible feeling you may get that absence of continuation on the second day is inauspicious".

My uncle, Sri Ananda Rao,was in charge of the guest house. He told me of a peculiar person who had come there. I went into the said person's room. This marked my contact with the Avaduta, Parabrahma. He was sitting unmindful of the body. He had an unkempt appearance, with long nails and a beard. On seeing me he said, "Bring Prasada ". I went and brought some idlis, gave them to him and said, "Namaste". "Happy man", he replied. "How about realisation?", I queried. "You will get it", he remarked. "How?", I persisted. "The mind will tell you", was the poignant reply. The conversation ended there. I met Acharyal and reported what had transpired. He was silent for a while and gazed fixedly. "He is a Raja Yogi with Vẽdantic experience", said Acharyal finally, with a tone of absolute certainty. A clearance had been given. Had not Acharyal told me earlier that by worshipping the Lingam that He gave me I would get Jananå ? The means were now beginning to operate in full force.

Acharyal left for His first major South India tour. Parabrahma was at Sringeri at that time. Acharyal had left instructions to the Math officials to cater to his requirements. I went to Sringeri and met him again in May. On my prostrating before him, casually he said, "Prasada. Yellow water". I brought some Sharbath from a hotel. "Happy man", he said,accepting my offering. "What is meant by Atmanusandanam?", I asked. "That is the Atma", he answered, "Om is its Anusandanam. Say Om. When you repeat Om, all your nerves must vibrate from head to foot." The dialogue ended there. I offered my salutations and returned.

Later, he initiated me to the Mahavakyas and caused me to be centred on the Self. Since then, I merely respond to stimuli but remain focussed on the Self.

When I narrated some details to His Holiness at Courtallam, He said, "Brahma is a realised Soul". It takes a great sage to realise the worth· of an Avaduta. In fact, Brahma's ways were so misunderstood that for many years he was confined in a lunatic asylum!

I have a habit of writing whatever comes to my mind to His Holiness. Sri Upadhyaya once asked Acharyal, "Is no reply to be sent to his letters?". "No", responded Acharyal, "He has not sought one". But whenever I have gone to have Darshanam after sending some epistles, He has remembered my writings. In fact, He has often cited parallel experiences corresponding to what I had detailed in my missives. So powerful is Acharyal's Atmanusandanam that it has a profound impact on those nearby, provided they suitably attune themselves. I vividly recall one such instance. I was accompanying Acharyal on His Kundapur camp. I was going in the pilot jeep when I noticed that Acharyal had ordered His car to stop. His Holiness asked me to sit in the front seat of His car and sent His attendant,Mahabala, to the jeep. .No conversation ensued. Acharyal lost Himself in the contemplation of the import of the Upanishads. The effect on me was extreme, to say the least. SRI JANAKI TANAYA (The Kannada book 'Jagadguru' is the source of what follows.) Acharyal once camped at Mysore. At that time, Sri Avinashi Chetty of Muduku Thorai came in search of me. This gentleman was having very strict habits and looked like an eccentric to an ordinary person. His face would always be adorned with Vibhuti and vermillion and he was a worshipper of Lord Surya. Whenever he visited Mysore, he used to stay in my house only. On that particular day, I had gone to Shankara Math to have Dharshanam of Acharyal. So my wife directed him to the Math. When the Chandramouleeswara Puja was going on, the whole building was suddenly plunged into darkness. The Puja, however, was performed with oil lamps. After that, Acharyal went to the temple of Sri Narasimha Bharathi. When He was about to enter, lights went off there, but came on the hall in which the Puja was conducted.

Later, Sri Avinashi was able to locate me and he gave an account of his experience. He said, "I entered the Puja hall in search of you. I was not concerned with the Puja that was going on there. Since you were sitting in the front row, I did not want to disturb you. Suddenly, I had some passing thoughts. 'Why are so much pomp and paraphernalia needed for a Sanyasi? Can He not do the Puja in private. Why not use ordinary oil lamps for illumination instead of these decorated electric lamps?'-when I was thinking on these lines, all the lights went off, and it seemed that He was not at all affected by the new condition. I was a bit confused. When the Puja was over and Acharyal was about to enter the temple, lights went off there also. This, in fact, added to my confusion and thrill. Acharyal turned towards me. I saw a bright Jyothi coming from His eyes, making a circle, and then subsiding back into them. In one eye of Acharyal I beheld Lord Surya and in the other, Goddess Sharadambal. I was not able to think of anything at that moment because of the excitement. I cannot accurately explain the nature of my experience".

On hearing this, I too was filled with great joy.

SRI LAKSHMINARASIMHA SASTRY

(Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Sastry is working at Mysore. He is a staunch devotee of our Acharyal. He has authored many books on Acharyal and the Math.)

I had written a life sketch of Sri Chandrasekara Bharathi Mahaswamigal. As suggested by my friend, I sent the manuscript to Acharyal. After some months, I received a letter from my maternal uncle stating that Acharyal wanted to discuss the book with me and that I should start immediately. I had heard that the Jagadguru, being a worshipper of Lord Narasimha, had a fiery wrath. I was afraid of the possible mistakes in the manuscript which might irritate Him. But when I saw His smiling countenance, my fears subsided and I felt ashamed of my earlier misconceptions.

Acharyal asked my uncle, "Who is this person?". My maternal uncle replied, "He is the one who wrote about Paramacharyal". His Holiness exclaimed, "Ah! You are the gentleman who wrote that book. I am surprised. From your name, the style in which you have written and the depth of the language, I imagined Hurugalavadi Lakshmi Narasimha Sastry to be a toothless old gentleman with grey hair. I am happy to see that you have come". Acharyal then asked me to sit very near Him. I felt as if I was sitting near my mother. He asked me a lot of questions, which He had noted down on the manuscript. I answered them. Acharyal was quite happy about the replies and, naturally, I felt no bounds for my joy. From that day onwards I used to visit Acharyal fairly regularly and receive His blessings. Once Acharyal came to Mysore. Everyday, thousands of devotees flocked to have His Darshanam. I felt ashamed to go near Him because of an ugly abscess in my right foot. Another reason was that I did not want to add to His overburdened schedule. From a distant spot itself I offered my prostrations and enjoyed His radiant face. On the day Acharyal left for Sringeri, I went to Shankara Math. While returning, I had a disturbed mind. The mental unrest increased day by day. At home, financial conditions started going from bad to worse apart from discouraging physical conditions and children's ill health. My wife started pointing out the mistake I had done in not having gone to Acharyal. So my conscience started pricking me.

One early morning I had a dream. In that, Acharyal had come to Mysore. I went to have His Darshanam with my friend and was standing at a distance. Suddenly Acharyal came very near me. At that moment, I was wearing a worldly dress. It did not even occur to me that I should offer my salutations. I simply stood with folded hands. Acharyal told the people around, "Nowadays our Lakshmi Narasimha Sastry has become quite modern" He then compassionately looked at me and went away. I bowed my head in shame. At this juncture the dream vanished. I did not take it seriously because I thought that my mental state was being reflected therein. My troubles did not cease; one by one they marched in. My wife too had a dream. In it, Acharyal had questioned her, "Your husband has become more and more modern. In spite of my visit to Mysore, he did not come for Darshanam".

After availing leave, I started to Sringeri for Acharyal's Darshanam. I could stay only for two days as I had to rejoin duty. On seeing Acharyal who had just completed His Anushtanam, my hairs stood on end. I mentally prayed to Him to forgive my lapses. He made tender enquiries and dispelled my frustration and fear. I was fully satisfied. What great power His words have!

I was accompanied by my friend and his wife. Acharyal asked about him and I gave an account by way of introduction. As my companions had to start that day itself, Acharyal gave them Mantrakshata. I thought that I too would receive it, but such was not to be the case. "Will you stay here two to three days more?", asked Acharyal. I accepted. He asked me to see Him by four O' clock in the evening. At that time, He enquired of me about the book I had written. Then He expressed His satisfaction and praised me in front of everybody. I prostrated and said humbly, "Acharyal and Sharadambal gave me the strength to write". He gave me Mantrakshata. I had two days of leave. Moreover, a Sunday could be compounded to it. So I felt a strong urge to stay for three more days. But it is customary to start after one gets Prasada. Hence I decided to leave the next day itself. It was a Sankranthi day (Dakshinaya Punyakalam). Acharyal, after taking bath in Tunga river and offering Ganga Puja, visited all the shrines. That time also I had the opportunity to see Him and offer obeisance. He filled my mind with joy that knew no bounds. I reached Bangalore and visited my sister's house for giving Acharyal's Prasada. There, to my bewilderment, I was informed that I had been saved from a great calamity. I was shown a news column from which I learnt that there was a scandal in the section in which I was working as a cashier. A person had embezzled a huge sum of money. Acharyal knew my financial position very well. I would have been on duty at that time had Acharyal permitted me to leave with my friend!

SRI H.S. RAMATHEERTHA

(The following material has an article in the Kannada book, 'Jagadguru' for its basis.)

Quite unlike my father, I am no philosopher. I am an engineer. I had my education abroad and am disinclined to accept as facts that which have not been proved beyond doubt. However, I have had a notable but inexplicable experience. It looks like a riddle even now.

One evening, I was called by my friends for games. Somehow, I did not feel like going and hence refused to join them. Soon after that, I went to my uncle's house and started studying. Not even a few minutes had passed, but I felt an urge to go out. I set out on my bicycle. After passing Tank Bund Road, I saw one of the founder members of my institution standing amidst a gathering. I stopped, wanting to know what was going on. Soon a car came there and halted near the gathering. Chantings of Veda Mantras and victory slogans commenced. Oh! what spiritual splendour! Glittering like molten gold, wearing an ochre robe, forehead glittering with bright Vibhuti and neck adorned with Rudraksham, a sage of sages moved towards the assembled men. I returned to my room enthralled. I am unable to explain the experience I had on that day. In fact, without knowledge, I offered thousands of salutations to the great Jagadguru of Sringeri. From that day onwards, I became calm and quiet and started performing Vichara (enquiry) on the real nature of the Self. A prominent change took over me. Swami Shivananda writes in his Guru Tattva, "So long as there is a world, there are Gurus and Vedas to guide the struggling souls in the path of Self realisation. The number of realised souls maybe less in the Iron Age when compared with the Satya Yuga, but they are always present to help the aspirants". This prophecy had become true in my case.

I can never forget the impact that rocked me on seeing Acharyal.

SRI M.R. SUBRAMANIAM

(Sri M.R. Subramaniam runs a small scale industry at Madras. Besides being an efficient industrialist, he is keenly religious.)

I had the good fortune of receiving Acharyal's blessings in the year 1977 when He was camping at Madras. The ever compassionate Mahasannidhanam acceded to my request and gave Mantra Upadesa and also visited our house. These are unforgettable events in my life.

In 1979, my wife and I decided to make our maiden visit to Sringeri to attend the Shivarathri Puja. We were waiting at the station to catch a train to Bangalore. "Due to dislocation of traffic, the train may be delayed by 4 hours", was the unexpected announcement that we heard. We felt dejected on hearing the announcement. Some passengers went back. Though I suggested to my wife that we do the same, she replied, "Let us pray to our Guru and stay back". After half an hour, an unexpected announcement was made about the immediate arrival of the train. We were overjoyed to hear it. We reached Sringeri safely and had Darshanam of Acharyal.

At Sringeri, I told Acharyal about my small factory. I also expressed my diffidence in going in for the manufacture of large furnaces. "Do not be afraid. If you endeavour suitably, everything will come out well", was the immediate benediction that I received. Acharyal also graced me with a Sudharshana Chakram. Within a short time I received many orders from Hyderabad for the manufacture of big furnaces. By His grace the work was successfully completed and we earned a good name.

In 1980, we went to Sringeri with our eldest son, Shankar. He had finished his B.Tech. from IIT, in 1979. Though he had various ideas, such as going abroad, he could not come to a conclusion about his course of action. I told Acharyal about him. Sri Mahasannidhanam advised my son to take up a job in my company, saying that it would be not only good for him but also for me. He then blessed my son and gave Mantrakshata. From that day he is with me and the company is progressing smoothly. Whenever I have Darshanam of Acharyal, He enquires, like a father, about my industry. Only due to His grace we are living happily.

SRI KASI VISWANATHA IYER

(Sri Kasi Viswanatha Iyer is stationed at Ernakulam. Herein he recounts some of the experiences, had by those known to him.)

For a protracted period of time, my brother's daughter, Smt. Lakshmi and her spouse Sri Krishnamurthy were longing to beget a male progeny. In the year 1980, I took them to Mahasannidhanam and sought His blessings. At that time they had 2 daughters, with the younger girl aged around 9 years. Acharyal gave His divine benediction to the couple. Subsequently, she delivered a boy on the same constellation as Acharyal, Swati.

For a long time, a lady, dwelling at Thirupanathura, wished to have a male offspring. The doctors declared her as barren. She approached Acharyal for blessings. By His grace she conceived and delivered a male child.

SRI A. KRISHNAN

(The narration is culled from the Kannada book, 'Jagadguru'.)

One day my son did not return from college after the classes were over. We searched for him everywhere but could not find him. Even after six months he did not come home. We then wrote a letter to Acharyal stating our problem.

He directed us to perform 'Ekadasavara Rudra Abhishekam' preceded by the chant of the 'Mahanyasam'. This was to be done for 10 days and also on my son's birthday. The rite commenced on 1st September 1959. On 28th September 1959 we received a telegram from my uncle's house that my son had turned up there. His safe return was only due to Acharyal's blessing.

SRI C.K. RAMNATH

(Sri Ramnath is a very unassuming devotee of His Holiness. Not only he but also his entire family are close to the Math.)

My first contact with His Holiness was in 1959 when my father-in-law, wife and I went to seek His blessings at Kanniyur near Coimbatore. I was thrilled to have got such an opportunity. With the kindness that characterises Him, His Holiness enquired me about the nature of my work. His interest seemed unusual for I was a 'taster' of tea and coffee. I wanted to take some photographs. He gave His consent and permitted me to do so to my heart's content.

My next meeting was nearly 10 years later, in 1968. I was visiting the coffee research station at Balehonnur, which is near Sringeri. I felt a compelling urge to see His Holiness. So, without prior intimation, I set out. On noticing me, the Jagadguru made enquiries with great affection. I was astonished at His phenomenal memory which had enabled Him to remember a devotee whom He had seen once and that too a decade ago.

Since then my contacts have grown. His overflowing love makes me leave His presence on each occasion only with a heavy heart. He has bestowed greater equanimity, belief in God and spirituality than I ever had before. Life cannot always be pleasant but His blessings enable me to face its ups and downs with confidence. In the year 1964, He accepted my invitation and came to my house at Bangalore. For various practical difficulties my father had been unable to complete the front portion for almost 40 years. That section remained at the plinth level itself. Acharyal walked to that portion in the course of His visit to my place. It was pleasantly surprising that thereafter my father got an opportunity to commence the construction and complete the unfinished task. All of us believe this to be a direct consequence of Mahasannidhanam's visit.

The Jagadguru has graced my place on more than one occasion. On one such visit my father sought to prostrate before His Holiness. At that time he had grown old and was not in good shape. Out of concern for him, Mahasannidhanam advised him to abstain from straining himself by paying obeisance in the traditional manner. Acharyal came to Bangalore again a few years later. I did Pada Puja in the Shankara Math and apologetically explained some difficulties in doing the Puja at home. I also spoke of my father's age and his inability to walk about. I wanted to bring him for Darshanam on some day but Mahasannidhanam would hear none of it. "Do not strain him by bringing him here", He said, "I will come and see him". What compassion!

SRI RAMASUBRAMANYA IYER

(Sri Ramasubramanya Iyer is the Dharmadhikari at Tirunelveli. He has studied the Vedas and is also versed in Vedanta. The ‘Suta Samhita’ is a favourite text of his and his Parayanam of the same is a delight to hear.)

In 1961, I was to receive Mantrakshata from Acharyal before leaving. However, there was some delay before I was able to get it. I feared that I would be missing my train. But when I went to the Railway Station a pleasant surprise awaited me. Surely, I could not miss the train for had I not been detained in the presence of the Jagadguru Himself? The train itself arrived an hour late and so I was able to board it with comfort.

On an occasion, His Holiness camped at Nerur and performed Puja at the samadhi of the great sage Sadashiva Brahmendra. I sat meditating that the ‘Sage of Nerur’ and our Acharyal were one and the same Supreme Being. When I returned home to Tirunelveli, a Sanyasi came to my house of His own accord. He told me the Vedantic truth that Brahman alone is real and the world is illusory. He further informed me that because I was interested in Vedanta, he had professed his advice. I feel that this was the effect of my meditation on Acharyal at Nerur. Taking this incident to be a sign of Acharyal’s blessings, I began reading Vivekachoodamani and the Upanishad Bhashyam.

In 1979, I developed stomach ulcer which did not abate in spite of treatment. Based on an assurance of His Holiness that I need not worry I agreed to undergo surgery. At the end of the operation, the doctors told me that it would take three days before they could say anything. By Acharyal's grace, I recovered without any complications.

Acharyal, by virtue of His deep insight and mastery over Yoga, can resolve the doubts of disciples in a trice. My personal experience is a testimony to this. I got a doubt with regard to a verse of the sixth chapter of Bhagavad Gita. Though I went through the commentary with care and also pondered over the import for long, there appeared to be a dichotomy in the teachings contained in the verse. Unable to resolve the issue, I sought clarification from Acharyal. He lent me a patient ear. Then He smilingly remarked, "The issue is quite simple for both Saguna and Nirguna aspects have been spoken of". The reply might appear terse but to me it was a revelation. The doubt vanished and I saw the verse in a new light.

My ailing grandmother was in her nineties when Acharyal graced my house in Tirunelveli. Compassionately addressing her, He said, "Chant the name of Rama continuously". My grandmother replied that she would do so. Acharyal did not leave the matter at that. "Saying that you will do it is insufficient. You must actually do it. Now repeat after Me' He then chanted the sacred Mantra and she chanted after Him. How fortunate was she to have received initiation at that age and that too unasked and further, with the Guru Himself coming to her! She proceeded to chant the Rama Nama continuously. Some months passed and her condition became serious. Under those conditions there was every chance that her mental chanting would get interrupted. Strange are the ways in which the grace of our Guru act. Unexpectedly, a group arranged for Akhanda (unbroken) chanting of Rama Nama. The place of chant being nearby, the divine name reverberated in my home day and night. Shortly thereafter, my grandmother breathed her last. Thus, even till her last days, an opportunity had been provided for her to be sanctified by the holy name of Sri Rama.

I was present when Acharyal graced the ailing Jnanananda Bharathi Swamigal. On seeing him our Guru said, "I have come to you as Rama came to sage Sharabhanga" I was thrilled to hear the words. The narration of Valmiki came to my mind. Sage Sharabhanga, though invited to obtain the fruits of his penance, decided to walk for the most holy Dharshanam of Sri Rama. With Sri Rama's permission he cast off his body in the Lord's presence. When our Guru had compared Jnanananda Bharathi Swamigal to Sharabhanga, was He not revealing that He was Sri Rama? My mind entertains no doubt.

SRI K.K. SANKARAN

(Sri Sankaran is extremely devoted to Acharyal. Though holding a senior post in Dena Bank, his inclinations are purely spiritual. He has prepared exhaustive notes of Acharyal's tours till the mid-sixties, without being physically present with Acharyal. Noting the way he collected details, Acharyal called him 'Sanjaya'. Well versed in Sanskrit, Sri Sankaran has also composed hymns on His Holiness. He is currently residing at Chembur, Bombay. Herein he lists but a few of his experiences.)

The year 1971 was a challenging one for our family as we faced all sorts of hardships so common in a family setup. My mother had an attack of cirrhosis of liver twice and her condition deteriorated rapidly, causing concern. Her health condition took a sudden turn for the worse in October 1971. She was admitted in a private nursing home in Bombay for providing proper treatment by expert medical practitioners. But in spite of all this her condition did not improve and chances of her survival became remote. The experts, who were attending on her, lost all hopes and informed my brother to intimate our nearest relatives as the end was nearing. I overheard their conversation and was stunned to learn the latest development as I was deeply attached to my mother. Even then I was quite unaware that in our flat at Chembur the society people were making all arrangements and preparations for the last rites. I rushed back to the house from the nursing home and embraced the Holy Padukas of Sri Mahasannidhanam. I kept them on my head, with fervent prayer to Acharyal to give a new lease of life to my mother. Though our neighbours, who were watching the scene, thought it as next to impossible. I talked to Acharyal's Padukas, for His Padukas have great powers to confer blessings on devotees.

In the meantime, an express telegram was sent to Sringeri informing about the precarious condition of my mother and Acharyal's gracious blessings were sought. But before it could reach Sringeri our Acharyal had visualised what was happening in my house and had granted my prayers. Strangely enough, that night my neighbour had a dream in which she beheld Acharyal leaving His headquarters at Sringeri and coming to my house. Later I was told by Math officials that Acharyal performed special pujas and offered prayers to Sharadambal and Chandramouleeswara for the speedy recovery of my mother. He instructed His Secretary to despatch the sacred Prasada forthwith to me. An express telegram intimating Acharyal's benedictions for the speedy recovery of my mother was also effected to be sent to me immediately.

The next day at five in the morning, my eldest brother, who was attending my mother constantly, rushed back to our house to convey the tidings that my mother was sitting in the bed and talking to my sisters after throwing away the various tubes connected to her nose for breathing. A miracle indeed had transpired disproving the predictions of the medical experts who were baffled and stunned. My mother was brought back to the house amidst scenes of rejoicing in our society. She started regaining health rapidly. Prasada from Sringeri also duly arrived.

The next day I rushed to Sringeri in a car to pay obeisance to Acharyal and to explain in detail what had happened, little knowing how He, who had given a fresh lease of life to my mother, would be unaware of what had taken place. However, to my satisfaction, I described the incident and expressed the deep debt of gratitude of our family. Acharyal, in His characteristic humility and with beaming smile and countenance, nodded His head and remarked, "I have not done anything. Your immense faith in Guru worked the wonder". He gave me a packet of Kumkuma Prasada and a gold coin of Sharadambal to be handed over to my mother. It is beyond the comprehension of human intellect to describe Acharyal's greatness.

During Acharyal's memorable Vijaya Yatra to Bombay in July 1967, He casually asked me one day whether I could procure a particular Kamandalu (water-pot). The coconut shell for this Kamandalu grows in Seychelles or Johannesburg in South Africa and is rarely combined into one. This particular shell is cut into two and is used as Kamandalu by Sanyasins. It was available in Bombay — either at Bhuleshwar or at Madhav Bang. But in spite of my best efforts I could not get the same as it is rarely available in India. After a few years I could get hold of this Kamándalu. I went to Sringeri and submitted it at His feet. Acharyal was immensely pleased. He remarked, "In these days, although Sanyasa Diksha can be given, it is rather difficult to find a Kamandalu like this for the Sanyasis".

After the passage of two years, one day a sudden upsurge arose in my mind that I must visit Sringeri and prostrate before His Holiness. I wanted to offer some nice article that can be used in His Puja or Anushtanam. I sighted a beautiful large Kamandalu of the type mentioned above, with copper covering, ornamental carvings and with an attractive base and a copper vessel inside, at the Bombay Fort Handicraft Emporium. As it was an export item, its price was exorbitant. I purchased it with the intention of submitting it to Acharyal. Being human, the idea of keeping the same with me entered my mind. I was to leave for Sringeri the next day. In the meantime, my eldest brother had drawn a huge life-size oil painting of Acharyal. I filled the Kamandalu with water and kept it near the painting with the consolation that I had offered it to His holy feet. My younger brother who was watching this, warned me of the consequence if I were to retain the Kamandalu with me. But in spite of the warning, the idea of keeping the Kamandalu with me was uppermost in my mind as I thought that it would be useful to me on some other day. As planned I left for Sringeri without the Kamandalu. I placed before Acharyal a true replica of Lord Mahaganapathi of Titwala. As Acharyal was in a pensive mood at that time, I went back and sat in a corner of the room. There was a huge crowd on that day. Suddenly Acharyal commanded me to come near Him and offered me a seat. I was rather perplexed and started to perspire. Something in my mind suggested that something is going to happen immediately. Acharyal then initiated the dialogue.

Acharyal: Sankaran, you remember you had given me a Kamandalu sometime back.

My heart started to beat fast and hands were trembling and the whole body was shivering.

I nodded my head in approval and half-heartedly replied, "Yes". Acharyal then continued, "The one which you had given Me last time is still with Me. But a devout Sanyasi is constantly asking Me to give it to him. But at present I do not desire to part with the same". (I became nervous for the mistake that I had committed. I was sure that something would emerge from His lips soon.) As expected Acharyal's final command came out.

Acharyal: If you can give Me the one which you have purchased recently for Me, I will definitely part with the old one.

Tears rolled from my eyes. I could not withstand my grief. I narrated the entire story to Acharyal and begged for pardon. I even suggested to Him that I might be permitted to go to Bombay immediately to fetch the Kamandalu for submission to Him. He smiled and replied, "There is no urgency at present like that. But do bring it positively when you come here next time for Darshanam". The next day I received Mantrakshata from Acharyal and left for Bombay.

Within a few days of reaching Bombay, Sri Vaidyasubramanya Iyer made an urgent trunk call to my neighbour. He conveyed to Bombay disciples, Acharyal's decision to initiate His successor designate on 11th of November, 1974. Immediately, I decided to leave for Sringeri. Fortunately, I was able to procure two more Kamandalus of ordinary type. I left for Sringeri on the 7th. I decided not to take meals till I submitted the Kamandalu with my apologies. It was 2.30 p.m. on 8th November when I reached Sringeri. I had a hurried bath with my younger brother in the sacred Tunga and rushed to Narasimhavanam on the other side of the river. His Holiness was seated in the ancient Asanam after Bhiksha and was scanning through some scriptural texts. Hearing my voice, He commanded Sri Mahabala Bhatta to take me inside the private room. Earlier, I was told by Acharyal's personal attendant that Acharyal was expecting my arrival with the Kamandalu. I was rather surprised as I had not intimated my visit to Sringeri. The moment I had Darshanam of Acharyal, I fell at His feet like a bamboo stick and burst out in tears. I tendered my sincere apologies for having kept the Kamandalu with me knowing fully well that it was meant for Him. In His characteristic style He remarked, "Well Sankaran! If you had given Me the Kamandalu on the day you had Darshanam last time, the matter would have ended there. You would not have come to Sringeri once again thinking that you had done your duty. It is Ishwara's will that My Sankaran should come for the Sishya Sweekaram ceremony. So He has sported this Divine Leela".

What compassion! What humility! This incident clearly indicates that walls are not barriers to Him and He can see things for Himself any time, at any place. Incidentally the Kamandalus were made use of on November 11th.

In April-May 1974, at the sacred command of Acharyal, my nephew's sacred thread ceremony was arranged at Sringeri. Our entire family left for Sringeri for the ceremony and stayed there for a week. Since it was vacation season we reserved our return journey by rail well in advance, in anticipation of rush from Kadur. But due to Railway strike we had to cancel our return tickets and had to make alternate arrangements to reach Bombay. At the last moment in consultation with Math officials, it was decided to arrange two or three special cars to Bombay directly from Udipi. It was 10 p.m. at night. Sringeri was plunged in darkness due to power failure. We were tense, for we had to depart for Bombay the next day early in the morning. We had been commanded by Acharyal to come at night for Mantrakshata during the usual Chandramouleeswara Puja. Because of the power cut Acharyal finished the Puja early. He was informed about our arrival. He came down with a hurricane lamp in His hand and greeted my father. All my family members were asked to sit down. Then the following conversation took place between Acharyal and myself.

Acharyal: What arrangements have you made for your return journey to Bombay?

Myself: (Proudly) We will be leaving by special cars.

Acharyal: Did you not arrange to go by train?

Myself: Gurudev! Due to the sudden Railway strike we had to cancel our rail tickets which we had booked earlier.

Acharyal: Of course. There are luxury buses from Udipi and Mangalore plying to Bombay daily. You could have booked in those vehicles.

Myself: That may not be convenient since I have to take my father who is old. Moreover, bus tickets are also not available.

Acharyal. Then you should have made some other alternate arrangement. I understand that there are steamer services from Mangalore to Bombay. The late Mantresha Sharma, the editor of ‘Search Light’ always preferred to go to Karachi in olden times by steamer only. All of us kept silent After sometime Acharyal broke the silence. He said, "All right. You go ahead with your original programme. But do write to Me immediately on reaching Bombay".

I never took the advice of His Holiness so seriously thinking that He was talking in a casual manner. He then gave us Phala-Mantrakshata. We left for Udipi via Agumbe the next day morning. The special cars were waiting for us to take us to Bombay. The journey was very smooth upto Khed in Ratnagiri district. There, suddenly we spotted an overturned oil tanker and oil flowing in the road. Myself, my father, nephew and brother were in the front row of the first car which was speeding at eighty to ninety km per hour. Noticing our speeding car, some people from the opposite side signalled their hands and even cautioned us to stop by loud shouting. But that was not to be. The driver could not negotiate the car at that stage. The car skidded off the oil spill, spinned thrice and finally dashed against a parapet-wall which was nearby. Otherwise we all would have fallen some sixty feet down in a valley as we were passing through Ratnagiri-Konkan Ghats. The car was badly damaged but nobody was injured even slightly by the gracious blessings of Acharyal. Now the picture of Acharyal advising me indirectly to exercise caution at Sringeri, unfolded step by step. We all realised that Acharyal is the all knowing one. In fact, Acharyal had visualised much earlier what was in store for us during the journey. He wanted to save us and so gave His piece of advice, though not directly.

SRI MEENAKSHISUNDARAM

(Sri Meenakshisundaram is the Dharmadhikari of the Dindigul Sringeri Math and is deeply devoted to Acharyal. Prosperity and humility form a rare blend in him. He is currently residing at Madras with an equally devout wife.)

My first Darshanam of Acharyal was entirely due to the efforts of my father and father-in-law. I had the good fortune of meeting Him at Courtallam, where I was given a talisman. From that time onwards all my previous afflictions left me and I began to develop Guru Bhakti. Gradually, even when I visited temples the thought of Acharyal would linger in my mind.

During Acharyal's visit to Tirunelveli, He called me, and expressed His desire to renovate the Dindigul Math and entrusted me with the entire responsibility. "You will be getting a letter from Sringeri asking for the estimate", He added. But I had no desire to spend Math's money. Hence, I personally did the job as a matter of service.

Meanwhile, my eldest daughter's marriage was fixed. Before printing the invitation card I went to Ujjain where Acharyal was camping. When I spoke of the alliance, Acharyal readily gave His consent and also said that Prasada would be sent on the occasion. Everything was proceeding smoothly until I received very disheartening information to the effect that as my future son-in-law was suffering from severe attack of typhoid he would be unable to attend the marriage on that day.

He was working in the IAF and was stationed at Kallakonda. The doctors did not give him permission to travel. Postponement of the marriage was decided upon. But I was very confident that the marriage would take place for Acharyal had already given His blessings. At the end that was exactly what happened. Sri Sundara Ganapadigal was sent as the Math representative and he brought the Prasada.

After marriage my son-in-law was transferred to Jamnagar. The train in which he was travelling to reach that place met with an accident. He was the only one in his compartment who escaped the jaws of death. It was later discovered that all his belongings except the clothing sent by Acharyal as Prasada were destroyed! When told of this Acharyal said, "I had sent a saree worn by Sharadambal because She would be the saviour".

Once when I was proceeding on a pilgrimage to Sringeri, my car suddenly stopped at a spot near Koppa. I alighted to investigate the sudden break-down. I stared in disbelief at a huge pit that was situated at a close distance from the car. Had the car gone forward even a couple of feet, I would have been doomed. Acharyal alone protected me from the calamity, for, was I not on the way to see Him?

My wife frequently suffered from acute stomach ache. When informed, Acharyal instructed that a Shatarudram be performed at Sringeri. This was in the year 1969.

Acharyal Himself sprinkled sanctified water on my wife and me. The stomach ache troubled her no more. But Acharyal continued to make considerate enquiries about her health. Recently my wife and I had been to Sringeri for witnessing Shivarathri celebrations. While returning, my car met with a major accident by colliding against a truck. Though the automobile suffered extensive damages, I miraculously escaped unscathed. Some months later I had severe chest pain and was hospitalised. By the time my wife rushed from Delhi to Madras, my health was critical. Night and day she prayed to Acharyal for His blessings. At about 2 A.M. on 6th April, as I lay on bed I could perceive something shining brightly. Sri Mahasannidhanam appeared on my left. He gave me some Theertham and applied some sandalwood paste taken from the sacred Chandramouleeshwara Lingam. Immediately I woke up my wife and described to her what I saw. I then asked the doctors to discharge me. They conducted a thorough examination and found me quite fit. Hence they discharged me. When I came home, I found the Prasadams sent by Acharyal. He had sent me Sandalwood paste, instead of the usual Mantrakshatha!

I firmly believe that Acharyal actually came to the hospital. It is only due to His divine grace that I am alive today. For that reason also, I am prepared to do any service to my Guru.

SRI K.S. NATARAJAN

(Sri Natarajan has dedicated his life to Acharyal’s service. Having resigned a lucrative job in Bombay he constructed a house and settled down at Sringeri. He is, as it were, the backbone of the Sharada Danvanthri Hospital, wherein he is functioning as a secretary. To him Acharyal means more than life. His young son too is quite devoted to Acharyal.) Acharyal had come to Bombay in the year 1967 to observe Chaturmasyam.I requested His Holiness to grace my flat for Pada Puja. He agreèd and came home. My flat was very near the sea and when His Holiness saw the waters he was thoroughly fascinated. Being an ace swimmer this reaction of His Holiness was natural.

One day my wife received a phone call from the Bombay Sringeri Math stating that a lorry containing an idol sent by His Holiness was on its way to the flat. She rang me up and on receiving the message, I rushed home. The lorry contained a box about 4' x 3½' x 2' in dimension containing a marble statue of Sri Adi Shankara. Acharyal had also indicated to the officials escorting the idol where it should be kept. I learnt that Acharyal had selected my house for keeping the idol till installation because my house had an extra wide door. So powerful was His power of observation that He had noticed this even on His brief visit. On Acharyal's suggestion I placed the idol on top of a concrete pedestal. One night we had switched off all the lights and only an oil lamp was burning. Both my wife and I were extremely surprised to perceive only Lord Shiva in the place of Sri Adi Shankara. Subsequently when I switched on the light the situation was restored to normalcy. On my narrating the incident to His Holiness He merely smiled in response.

In 1968, my father-in-law came to Sringeri. It was planned that my wife and I would see him the next day. However, we failed to arrive because my wife was having her monthly periods. We halted for 4 days at a place near the Jog falls and then proceeded. A postal holiday prevented me from informing my father-in-law about my changed programme. Meanwhile he began to panic and made phone calls to police stations. Acharyal consoled him and said that I had been held up and would surely come. I stayed at Sringeri for about 5 days and then took Mantrakshata. When I was about to leave, Acharyal asked me, "Where are you going?". "To Salem", I replied. His Holiness advised me to spend the night at Bangalore before proceeding to Salem. Being rather obstinate, I casually said "I can manage to go to Salem"

Just as the car reached Bangalore its axle broke down. It was evening by the time the repairs were completed. My resolve to proceed to Salem remained. As I thought of proceeding there was a heavy downpour which shattered my plan. We halted for the night at Bangalore and commenced our journey early in the morning. On our way we found that a huge tree had fallen across the road and was blocking the traffic. Had we left the previous night we would have been stranded, unable to proceed. Only then I realised the import of our Acharyal's words.

During the course of a discussion Acharyal suggested that I relinquish my job and settle down at Sringeri. Accordingly, I chose a site near the river Tunga for building my house. It was a peaceful place. As none of the Math officials were aware of the actual boundary of the site, we made a rough demarcation. When He saw the site, He ordered that the boundary be shifted to one side. It was later found that what had been indicated by Acharyal was the exact boundary.

In February 1972 I informed Acharyal that I would be leaving for Bombay the next day to perform my mother's Shraddham. As He was observing silence that day, He did not reply. The next day, however, he sent word through Sri Sundara Ganapatigal, asking me to perform the Shraddham at Sringeri itself. Accordingly, I wired my wife to come over. On receipt of the telegram also she was reluctant to leave my ailing father alone and come. Strangely my telegram was delivered for a second time. Assuming that as I had sent two telegrams, the matter must be urgent, she started with my son Shankar and my father. They arrived the same day.

My son was then about 2½ years old. The next day, as he was crossing the bridge he slipped and fell into the river. Luckily, a Brahmin, who was nearby, saw his plight and rescued him. The boy was taken to His Holiness who handed him over to me stating that there had been a danger to the boy due to water and it had now passed. It dawned on me that Shankar had been saved only because I had been asked to prolong my stay at Sringeri. What indeed would have been his chance of survival had he slipped into the ocean of Bombay as he was destined to. The incident did not end there. That night, during the Puja performed by Acharyal, Shankar automatically began chanting the Sri Rudram, which he had not yet been taught.

In March 1972, I had shifted most of my belongings to my house at Sringeri, retaining only a few essential items at Bombay. My father's health deteriorated and I had him hospitalised. After a few days the doctors said that as my father was on his death bed, it would be advisable for me to have him discharged to permit him breathe his last at home. I was, however, adamant about keeping him in the hospital but was in a dilemma. I sent a telegram to Sringeri and in reply was asked to do Mrithyunjaya Japa. The same was performed and the Prasada and Theertham were given to my father. Miraculously the next day he was able to speak. The doctors were at a loss to comprehend how his condition had suddenly taken such a turn for the better. It was Acharyal who stood between my father's life and death.

After my settling down at Sringeri, Acharyal was kind enough to visit my house on many evenings. Sometimes, He used to take me out for a walk. On one such occasion, He led me towards a building. Pointing to it, He explained that it had been built for Maharajas to stay when they came to Sringeri. As it was becoming very difficult to maintain the place, Acharyal asked me for my suggestion regarding it. I had a long cherished dream which I made known by saying, "Why not convert the building into a hospital?". Soon Acharyal agreed. On Acharyal's giving the green signal, renovation works commenced. Meanwhile, I went to Bangalore and discussed the matter with important persons. After initial hesitation, Dharmatma Sri Vaidya Subramanya Iyer stepped in to help in his inimitable style. The hospital is now developing at a rapid rate, all on the account of Acharyal's personal interest.

SMT. RAJALAKSHMI

(Smt. Rajalakshmi, who lives in Salem, narrates the miraculous cure of the cancer from which she was suffering.)

Prior to 1978, I was suffering from acute pain in the right side of my stomach. The abdomen started to swell and as days passed, the pain became unbearable. As Ayurveda and Homeopathy failed to produce any tangible effect, we consulted many specialists in Madras. While some opined that the problem was appendicitis, some others said that there was twisting of the intestines. But all of them were for an emergency operation. In the meantime,, my son met with some difficulties and so the surgery had to be postponed.

Subsequently, on the agony becoming intractable, I was admitted to the St. John's Medical College Hospital at Bangalore. A series of tests were conducted to diagonise the problem. They revealed a tumor in the space called caecum between the large and small intestines. Later, it was confirmed as cancer and an emergency operation was advised. The date for the surgery was fixed and my kith and kin came to see me.

My mother's death during a cancer operation at Vellore Hospital and my father's expiry after an abdominal surgery flashed in my mind and caused an intense fear to grip me. My trepidation became enhanced when I remembered an astrologer's prediction that I was in for an operation with a little chance for survival. I concluded that the end of my life was inexorably at hand. Whenever my mind is in distress I meditate upon my Guru and Goddess Sharadambal. That time also I contemplated on Acharyal and sought His blessings.

Two days before the operation was scheduled to take place, I was resting in my ward. The time was around 2 a.m. I had a dream in which I beheld my parents and others, who were already dead, taking me to a bus and seating me inside. Just then Acharyal followed by many people, came towards the vehicle and pointed at me to get down. Startled, I jumped from the bus. Acharyal gave me two balls of Vermillion and a Theertha Prasada. When I woke up I noticed that a change had come about and the swelling in my stomach had diminished in size. Immediately, I roused my husband and explained the dream as also the subsequent change in the size of my abdomen. All my relatives were pleasantly surprised at the good news.

Next day, at 8 A.M. the doctor came to examine me. On pressing my stomach he was in for a surprise. The tumour had disappeared. "What a miracle!" was all he could exclaim. The professor of Surgery and four other leading doctors then thoroughly checked me up. They were also amazed when they could not locate the tumour. "Such a thing could happen only due to God's blessings", they observed. To confirm the finding, I was given a Barium meal and X-ray pictures were taken from different angles.Not even a trace of the malignant growth was seen and so I was discharged from the hospital. In a week my abdomen became completely normal. Carcinoma is a dreaded disease but it receded with the advance of Acharyal's Grace.

When Acharyal came to Madras in 1977, I had the opportunity to meet Him at Sri Vaidya Subramanya Iyer's place. On seeing me He asked, "Where had you been all these days? Had you been to Salem?" My husband explained the miracle that Acharyal had effected and our Guru heard it with apparent innocence. "You have tremendous faith in Sharadambal and She did not abandon you" was what He remarked. About fifty devotees were present at that time and were wonderstruck to hear the incident.

SRI BALASU APPANA SASTRY

(The sequel is extracted from the Kannada book "Sri Jagadguru"). At a place called Mukkalamala, Acharyal had gone to Sri Peri Sharma's house to accept Pada Puja and Bhiksha. After Bhiksha, while conversing with Sri Sharma, Acharyal told him, "Do not go out of town till the end of (lunar month of) Bhadrapada". Days later, Sri Sharma received an invitation from Sri R.C. Yajulu to proceed to Banaras to attend a congregation of Vedic scholars. Forgetting Acharyal's orders, he left with Sri Yajulu for Kasi. There he heard the delightful Vedic recitation and also offered hospitality to Pandits and ascetics. On his way back, when he was about to reach the Railway Station he collapsed and expired immediately. Had not Acharyal foreseen this and warned him earlier?

Once Acharyal wired me to come for Ganapathi Vakhyartha Sadas. Scholars from all over India had gathered. Calling me aside Acharyal asked, "With what title will it be appropriate to honour Sri Madhusudana Bhattacharyal?". As Sri Bhattacharyal was particularly well acquainted with the Tarka Sastra but not equally so with other Sastras, I suggested the honourific 'Tarkalankara' (ornament of the Tarka Sastra). I was pleasantly surprised when Acharyal showed me a chit that was with Him. On it was written 'Tarkalankara'.

SRI A.V.K. IYER

(The following account is based on an article in the Kannada book ‘Jagadguru’.)

Acharyal’s special feature is His ready accessibility. If one comes into His presence, one acquires freshness and one's problems disappear. Even a minute in His presence supplies energy to our spiritual battery.

In 1967, Acharyal was camping at Bombay and had gone to a devotee's house for Pada Puja. As the entire verandah was crowded with people, I found no place to go in. Left with no option, I stood on my toes to catch glimpses of the Pada Puja that was going on. Suddenly, I noticed Acharyal waving His hand and beckoning me to come near. The crowd parted and permitted me to enter. When the Brahmins there were chanting a particular Vedic Mantra in a low tone, Acharyal asked me, "Have you had initiation into this Mantra?". Twenty years had elapsed since I had been initiated into it. Apart from a few close relatives, none knew of this. How could the Jagadguru have been aware of it? Naturally, I was astounded. Recovering my composure, I replied in the affirmative. Acharyal went on to question me about the Dhyana Sloka, Rishi, Chandas, Devata, Bheejaksharam and Nyasa relating to the Mantra. Obediently, I answered. On hearing my reply, Acharyal smiled, satisfied. I clearly understood that nothing can be hidden from the Guru. A few weeks after Acharyal had left, I had a dream. In it I sought Acharyal's guidance to solve a spiritual problem of mine. In response, He touched me in the middle of my eyebrows and said, "Now you have the answer, is it not?". Instantaneously I had my desired solution.

(Thus Acharyal was ready to guide even in a dream.)

SRI SHIVJIBHAI H. SUCHDE

(This narration has been culled from the souvenir released in Mysore during 1981, on the occasion of Golden Jubilee of Ashrama Sweekara and 65th Vardhanthi celebrations of our Acharyal).

If I am not mistaken, His Holiness Sri Abhinava Vidyatheertha Swamiji was camping in Shimoga at Sri Venkatarama Swamiji's residence on 27th Nov., 1962. Swamiji had accepted for Pada Puja in Dr. B.R. Sama Rao's house. Being our family doctor and a close friend, he had invited me and my wife for the said function. At that time my wife was unwell. So, I went alone to see Pada Puja in his house. Swamiji was sitting and Pada Puja was going on. Then my friend Sri H.R. Srikantier, who was sitting just behind me, slowly enquired about my wife's health and asked me why she had not come for the Puja Somehow our talk was slightly heard by Swamiji and He immediately asked as to what the matter was. Then Sri Srikantier explained to His Holiness about the illness of my wife and His Holiness then asked me why I did not bring her there. I politely replied that in fact she was very anxious to come, but the doctor had strictly advised her not to move out. His Holiness asked, "Who is that doctor?". I said, "Swamiji, he is the doctor who is performing Pada Puja here". Everyone started laughing. Then Swamiji enquired whether visitors were allowed to see her. The doctor smiled and said that anyone can see the patient, but the patient is not in a position to move out of the bed. The Puja was over and everyone received Prasada Then, Swamiji was kind enough to give me extra Prasada with blessings and told me that it was to be given to the patient. As per Swamiji's instructions, I went home and gave the Prasada to my wife. I am very happy, from that day as till today, my wife is completely free from the ailment. Four to five days prior to the departure of His Holiness from Shimoga, through Sri Venkatarama Sastry we had arranged for Pada Puja in our house. With great pressure, the doctor had permitted my wife to have a five minute Darshanam only as she had had a serious heart attack. On the Pada Puja day she was feeling much better. Five minutes prior to the arrival of His Holiness, she got giddiness and she was lying down in bed. I was very much worried as to how to perform the Puja. After ten minutes, His Holiness entered my room and seeing His Holiness, my wife immediately got up from the bed and had Darshanam. I was very much hesitating as she was not in a position to bear the strain of sitting long for the Puja. But, His Holiness ordered that she will sit and perform the Puja. So, both of us sat for Puja and everyone was surprised that she was able to sit for more than 40 minutes and perform the Puja with her own hands. After the Puja was over in my house, I went with His Holiness to my factory where we had arranged for a Pada Puja so that our staff and workers could have Darshanam and blessings of His Holiness. Everyone had come away from my house and my wife was there with only the servants. The telephone was about twenty feet away from her bed. She walked to the telephone and rang up my office to find out where I was. The clerk who attended the phone informed her that I was taking His Holiness around the factory and sugar godown. Then she asked him to send my car which was in the factory. As per her instructions, the car was sent to my house. As there was no facility to park the car just in front of the door, the car was stopped on the road in front of the gate. To enter into the car she had to climb down a few steps and again climb up a few steps. She walked herself upto the car and came to the factory, and was sitting in the car to have Darshanam of His Holiness. After completing the round, when we came out, His Holiness was surprised and asked her how she came there at that stage. My wife said, "Swamiji, with Your blessings, I was able to come here and I did not have any difficulty". His Holiness blessed her and said that there would be no trouble thereafter and we need not worry about her ill-health.

When I had gone to Bangalore, one day I was sitting with Sri V. Narasimhamurthy, a friend of mine. During the course of our talk, he asked me if I was staying in Bangalore for a few days and said that he wanted to send Prasada of Sri Badrinath. I was surprised as to how a leading lawyer got so much time to visit Badrinath! He informed me that he went there with the party of His Holiness and they completed the pilgrimage without any trouble and returned comfortably. He enquired whether I had gone to Badrinath. I told him that I was not fortunate because there were strict instructions from our fore-fathers that none in our family should go to Badrinath. What I had learnt from my elders were that, in olden times, when no transport facility was available, about sixty to seventy persons had gone on Badrinath Yatra and out of them about three to four persons died on the way. After completing the Yatra, they returned home and within a week the leader also died So, all those who had gone there made it a rule that none in the family should visit Badrinath. This was continuing for three generations and it was strictly followed by everyone in the family. It was my sincere desire to go to Badrinath if it was permissible and I told my friend that if I had known the programme of His Holiness to Badrinath earlier, I would have also gone with His Holiness so that there was no risk or violation of the orders of our elders. I enquired Sri Narasimhamurthy as to where His Holiness was camping and he said that His Hoiiness was in Bombay at Gandhi-Nehru Sangam Hall. From Bangalore I went to Bombay and fixed up an appointment with His Holiness.

Accordingly, the next day at 9 O' clock in the morning, I went to His Holiness and offered my Pranams. Immediately, His Holiness said that I seemed to be worried. I said, "Yes, Swamiji, I am worried because His Holiness went to Badrinath with all His Bhaktas and it is my misfortune that my name is not in the list of His Bhaktas'" His Holiness said that it is very inconvenient to go there by bus. Nowadays cars are going upto the temple and His Holiness advised me to go there by car with my family and have Darshanam of Lord Badrinath. I was very much pleased to hear this. Then I slowly explained the instructions of our fore-fathers which had been very strictly followed by everyone in the family. His Holiness said to me, "You immediately proceed to Badrinath. You will not have any inconvenience". He gave me His blessings. I politely informed His Holiness about my wife's heart trouble and as Badrinath is over ten thousand feet ,even a strong man finds some difficulty at times, I enquired of Him as to how I could take my wife. His Holiness started laughing and said, "You do not worry. Both of you go and have Darshanam of Lord Badrinath. I will be responsible for both of you". Really, I was surprised at this, and immediately after that I chalked out a programme without any hesitation. We both went to Badrinath and had the Darshanam of Lord Badrinarayana and returned to Bombay. I went and offered my Pranams to His Holiness. Everyone was surprised as to how we completed the Yatra with least difficulty. In fact, many friends had advised us to take woollen clothes, medicines and so many other things and on their advice I had carried all these things. But there arose no necessity to make use of them. This was due to nothing but the blessings of His Holiness. When we selected the site to put up our sugar factory at Shimoga in 1954, the area had yet to be developed for sugarcane cultivation. Even for about five to six years after the start of crushing, we had not been getting sufficient sugarcane to crush, although we had given many facilities to all the growers. We were not getting adequate response and supply. Apart from this, there was propaganda against us and we had to face lot of difficulties at that time. When I had an opportunity to meet His Holiness, I expressed my deep feeling for this and His Holiness blessed me and said, "This is all temporary and when people know you well, everything will be alright and they will give their attention to growing sugarcane" His Holiness also assured that the future of the factory would be very bright. Since then I have been observing that year-by-year the cane cultivation is steadily increasing and we have been getting a cane supply which is much more than our capacity. Also, by His Holiness's grace an additional mill for increasing our crushing capacity is being erected now. Our factory started first with a meagre supply of cane of about twenty two thousand tonnes and I am proud to say that this year I am expecting nearly four lakh tonnes of cane and from now onwards it will be five to six lakh tonnes every year. This has been achieved only with the blessings of His Holiness.

Sometime back my wife and I had gone to Sringeri for His Holiness's Darshanam. In the previous year there was inadequate rain in several parts of Maharashtra, Gujarat and Mysore and severe drought conditions prevailed in those parts. People were seriously suffering and during the current year also, till then, there had not been sufficient rains. Casually my wife told His Holiness about these happenings. His Holiness blessed that there will be heavy rains, as otherwise the poor people will suffer heavily without food.

After some days, we went on tour and in my absence a friend of mine from Calcutta came to Shimoga.My Manager took him to have Darshanam of His Holiness at Sringeri. At that time the Manager informed His Holiness that the powercut had not been lifted yet as Lingasanakki Dam was not filled and also said that in certain parts of Mysore state the people are suffering without drinking water. After hearing this, Swamiji told the Manager that there will be rain, provided Rudrabhishekam was performed at Ambuthirtha, the birth place of Sharavathi River. He also recommended that as the Purohit at Ambuthirtha Temple is a learned man and a devotee of God he will perform this satisfactorily. So, we sent two of our representatives in advance, to make arrangements for the Abhishekam. On the first of August we went there for the Puja and Abhishekam. When we reached there it was completely dry and the sky was clear. We started the Puja at about eleven O'clock. When the final stage of Abhishekam was being done it started raining heavily and continued for several days. After that we had Brahmanabhojanam and then ran to Sringeri to inform His Holiness that we completed the Puja and Abhishekam as per His Holiness's instructions. In fact at the time it started raining at Ambuthirtha, it started raining everywhere. We enquired at Tirthahalli, Sringeri, Koppa and Shimoga and were pleased to know that it had rained heavily at all places. Not only this, in the whole month of August there was continuous rain and I have been observing that there is slight rain or drizzle everyday. This is nothing but His Holiness's blessings and the people of Mysore state are happy that they got very good rain with His blessings and the dam at Lingasanakki is almost full.

SRI T.R. SUBBA RAO

(The late Sri T.R. Subba Rao, better known as ‘Tarasu’, was a prolific Kannada writer. The following account is based on his essay in the Kannada book ‘Jagadguru’.)

Years ago, I realised little of Acharyal’s greatness, though my friends and relatives had extolled Him much. I did not have any disrespect but felt no inclination to behold Him. In fact, on the few occasions I had been to Sringeri, I had confined myself to having Darshanam of Sri Sharadambal.

A situation that went out of my hands induced my seeking His audience. The first interview itself surcharged me with energy and created an indelible impression in my mind.

Once I learnt that Acharyal would be camping at Mysore. Desirous of having Acharyal visit our home, I wrote a letter to Sri Padmanabha Upadhyaya, the Personal Assistant to the Jagadguru. The politely worded reply contained the pleasant information that time permitting, Acharyal would grace my place.

I wrote to my parents who were staying in Chitradurga and they came over to Mysore. Then, I was in for an uneasy time for the organisers said, "Acharyal’s programme is uncertain". I also learnt that as Acharyal’s health was not good, He would not be gracing houses for Pada Puja and Bhiksha-vandanam. This piece of information dashed my hopes.

The next day, my father and I went to behold the Guru. A huge crowd awaited Him. I waited patiently hoping that I might be able to get close to Him for a few moments. His eyes fell on me and a smile lit His face. When I prostrated before Him and stretched out my hands to receive Mantrakshata, He said, "No, I will not give you Mantrakshata now, I will be coming to your house the day after tomorrow and will bestow it then". Words cannot express how elated I felt. Bowing again, I queried, "At what time are You coming?". "Upadhyaya will be able to tell you that", He answered. I introduced my father and hurriedly sought out Sri Upadhyaya. He said, "His Holiness will grace your place at 10.30 but can stay only for 10 minutes. Please do not publicise the visit and gather a crowd".

Since the visit was not for Pada Puja, I performed one at the Math. Then I turned my attention to making arrangements to welcome the Guru. I had dreamed of a grand reception but, bearing in mind Sri Upadhyaya's words, contented myself with less.Paucity of time to fix things was a major factor. Though only a few relatives had been informed, the conspicuous Pandal functioned as a magnet. Much to my chagrin a crowd gathered. On seeing it I grew uneasy and even began to despair my being able to meet Him in private to receive Mantrakshata.

Acharyal arrived. Not a trace of irritation marked His countenance on beholding the gathering. Having blessed the assembled ones He went into the Puja room and called my wife and me. He dismissed my relatives saying, "I want to talk to them alone" Unexpectedly, He asked me to perform certain acts of religious significance". Thereafter, having spoken for a while, He gave Mantrakshata and left.

I had not asked for anything, nor did I have adequate time to do what He asked. Still taking it as the Guru's command, my wife and I strictly followed what we had been instructed to do. A few days passed and a peculiar illness began to afflict me. I consulted an astrologer, who was renowned for the accuracy of his predictions and who was also a close friend of mine. Scrutinising my horoscope he said that a certain planet was causing the problem. He prescribed a certain Sahasranamam, a hymn and a Homa.

I was stunned to note that Acharyal had prescribed the very same expiation. Unable to contain my feelings ! explained to my friend all that had occurred. 'For a person like me a horoscope is needed to make predictions. Acharyal is omniscient and so requires no aids", was the reply. Indeed I acknowledge that Acharyal is not merely a Guru, He is Ishwara Himself.

SRI P.S. NARASIMHAN

(Sri P.S. Narasimhan and his wife are very close devotees of Acharyal. Sri Narasimhan is better known in Math circles as 'Geneva Narasimhan'. His interest in Vedanta is so deep that in spite of being blind he has mastered and continues to master many a sacred text. The following is culled from the Souvenir released at Madras to commemorate Acharyal's Shashtiabdhapoorthy. )

Years back, my wife and I had made a vow to offer a chain and Mangalyam to Sri Sharadambal at Sringeri. For one reason or another we had been unable to fulfil this until late in 1976. When we proceeded to Sringeri in 1976 for the Vardhanti, we had our misgivings that on this occasion at least everything should go off well. We expressed to Acharyal on the very day of our arrival our desire to make this offering and He graciously permitted us. He blessed the chain and Mangalyam and instructed one of His attendants to make this offering to Sri Sharadambal on that very day and arrange for both of us to have Darshanam immediately after the offering had been made. However, as my eyesight is extremely poor, even from the closest point in the Sannadhi upto which the public are allowed, I could not have a good Darshanam of Sri Sharadambal either at noon when the offering was made or in the evening when my wife specially took me as near as is permitted and tried to point out the details of the image and the Alankaram. As we were coming out and I was extremely depressed, Acharyal happened to pass by, and He took us very near the sanctum sanctorum. He had apparently noticed my problem and my wife's vain bid to point out to me the details of the Alankaram and the beautiful face of Sri Sharadambal. He personally came forward and led us in and graciously asked us to stand next to Him and He Himself pointed out to me the details of the Alankaram.

The next day, when we took leave of Him, my wife and I expressed our great gratitude to Him for this extraordinary kind gesture. He replied, "I saw you helping him out to have Darshanam of Ambal. You were pointing out in vain the ornamentation. He was struggling to see. I noticed it and so took you in. It was mere humanity".

What a great privilege and blessing for me to have had Darshanam of Ambal with our Guru at my side!

An incident which lives in my memory happened on Vardhanti day in 1976. His Holiness' forthcoming tour of North India and His visits to Benares and Delhi were being discussed. A leading disciple from Delhi was insisting that His Holiness should, during the stay in Delhi, take part in a rally for the protection of cows which was scheduled as a big public demonstration and was due to be televised. For the first and only time in the several years I have had the privilege of having Darshanam of His Holiness when He appeared to get slightly irritated. Raising His voice He told the disciple, "I do not want all this. It is not necessary that I should join a special meeting for cow-protection or appear in television. I am very much interested in it, however. I maintain several cows here in Sringeri. This, one and all can see".

But the next moment,the fleeting show of anger had subsided and His Holiness was His usual personification of Shanti.

After all the other disciples had disappeared, my wife and I had stayed back to take leave of His Holiness. I referred to this incident and expressed my humble admiration for the extraordinary way in which His Holiness had been able to summon a show of anger and then to revert to His usual poise and acquaint in an instant. His Holiness remarked, "There are certain occasions when we have to exhibit a show of anger. Anger must be under our control, to be used when necessary and abandoned when the need ceases".

SRI H.L. CHANDRASEKHAR

(Sri H.L. Chandrasekhar is the son of the well known author Sri H. Lakshminarasimha Sastry. His simplicity belies his having obtained a doctorate. At present he is stationed at Mysore.)

My first contact with Acharyal was in 1969-70 when my father took me for Darshanam. I was suffering from epilepsy. Almost once a week I used to have blackouts. Treatment did not help much in preventing, or even in reducing the frequency of the seizures. I placed my case before the Guru. He instructed me to perform Shiva Puja and chant Sri Rudram everyday. On a subsequent date, His Holiness sent word through my father asking me to do a specific amount of Gayathri. I was asked to be brought to him on a particular day. On that day He gave me initiation. Gradually the frequency of the fits began to decrease and finally I was completely cured. For protection, Acharyal gave me a talisman which I wear to this day.

The spiritual splendour of His Holiness is wonderful. An experience of mine particularly convinced me in this regard. In 1975, I once beheld Acharyal coming for Puja after finishing His evening bath and Anushtanam. An orange-hued glow enveloped Him. I could see the surroundings and so was in no trance. Acharyal sat for the Puja. The halo continued to be visible to my naked eyes. When the Vedic chant was going on, I saw a ray of light emanating from Him and penetrating me. I felt suffused with true peace and joy. The delightful experience ended, much to my chagrin, after the chanting ended.

GURUBHAKTAMANI SRI P. SUBRAMANIAM

(Sri P. Subramaniam lives in Calcutta and has been the leading personality making arrangements for Acharyal's stay there. The following narrative is taken from the Souvenir released at Madras to commemorate Acharyal's Shashtiabdhapoorthy.) My association with Acharyal has been very close since 1964 when I had the good fortune of having His Darshanam for the first time at .Sringeri. My wife and I performed Pada Puja and Bhikshavandanam. Acharyal, at whom I looked with a sense of great awe, said smilingly that I could see Him later in the day. Those soothing words put me at ease. We went again in the afternoon. My wife and I were called upstairs to Acharyal's room, where He received us with an unforgettably graceful smile and wanted to give me an envelope. When I stretched my hands to receive it Acharyal told me that He was appointing me as His Dharmadhikari. I was nonplussed and did not know what to say. I admitted that I was a student of Sanskrit but I did not know anything of the Sastras or what I should do as Dharmadhikari and wondered whether I was a fit person for this honour. Acharyal waved me aside and said that I will have Shreyas. He gave us Mantrakshata and we bowed to Him. That was the beginning of my tie of devotion to Acharyal. When I left Sringeri that night, I had a peculiar sensation of strength ‘and courage, a feeling of great blessing hovering around me.

Thereafter, my associations with Acharyal became closer. This blessed association transformed my life. I have numerous personal experiences that cannot be explained in words. I would like to share with the readers one rare experience which my wife and I had in the midst of nearly forty persons.

This happened in 1974, when I escorted a team of devotees on a visit to Sringeri during Chaturmasyam. On reaching Bangalore, we were accommodated in the Shankara Math. Around midnight, my wife and I saw Acharyal standing near us and looking around the room where many of the devotees who had travelled in the bus were sleeping. We got up and prostrated at the lotus feet of Acharyal. We saw Him giving a benign smile and blessing us with His outstretched right hand. We saw Him walking away and disappear. We were awe struck as to how Acharyal had come there when we were expecting to have His Darshanam at Sringeri. We were amazed. Our mind dwelt on the vision and wondered how and why it had happened. Next day, when we reached Sringeri and found ourselves before Acharyal, I said that we had had His Darshanam the previous night at Shankara Math, Bangalore. Acharyal smiled and said, "I was thinking last night, that Subramania Iyer has brought a number of devotees from Calcutta and wanted to see whether they were comfortably accommodated and properly looked after". This thought explains the presence of Acharyal in our midst at Shankara Math, Bangalore and His inspection as to how we were accommodated there. For Him, Bangalore was not far off from Sringeri. He was there with us that midnight to see how we were and we were fortunate to have the blessed eyes to see Him. We think he gave us the eyes to see His vision, to have His Darshanam there.

SRI NANJUNDA SHARMA

(Herein, Sri Nanjunda Sharma of Bangalore explains his experiences with Acharyal. He also describes other incidents that he has witnessed. He has had the rare privilege of playing with Acharyal when our Guru was a Brahmachari, studying at Bangalore.)

I was losing very heavily in my business and also became mentally fatigued. I went to Sringeri in 1952 to behold Acharyal. I was a friend of His in His Poorvashrama days but lost contact for a long time till 1952. I explained to him about my difficult situation. He advised me to recite a particular hymn on Durga regularly. I carried out His directive punctiliously. I started experiencing great mental peace.

Sri Subbaraya Sastry was a priest in Sri Subramanyeshwara Temple at Sajjan Rao Circle in Bangalore. Due to some misunderstanding with the management, he quit the post. Subsequently, his financial position became very critical. He went to Salem to behold Acharyal. He explained his predicament. Acharyal compassionately heard the narration and at the end of it He strangely queried, "Why do you not build a Subramanya temple yourself and perform Puja there?". Sastry was astounded and replied, "I am very poor and it is impossible for me to do that". Acharyal emphasised the same point and added, "I will pray to Sri Chandramouleeswara" Sastry was dumbfounded. After returning to Bangalore, he approached me for help but I could not extend any aid as I was not in a sound financial position at that time. But due to Acharyal's grace, a large number of people made voluntary contributions and the temple was constructed. Acharyal Himself consecrated the temple. Later, the devotees wanted to offer a wooden chariot to the temple. Acharyal, on hearing this remarked, "Why a timber chariot? You will get a silver chariot ". His words became true and soon a silver chariot was built. Acharyal has personally blessed most of the major functions held a at the temple. This shows that His blessings are infallible.

Acharyal was once camping at Chinthamani in Karnataka. I had been there to have His Darshanam. I came across a dumb boy. His father was very dejected on account of his son's inability to speak. I offered to take him to Acharyal. Soon the boy started uttering "Amma" (mother).

Sri Ganesh, son of Sri Subbaraya Sastry, was suffering from a heart ailment. Once, his condition became very precarious, He was hospitalised and attended to by an American specialist. The doctor was reluctant to perform an operation as the chances were bleak. Sri Sastry approached me with tearful eyes and recounted, "I am bereft of money as I have spent everything for the construction of Subramanyeshwara temple"

That night Sri Ganesh had an unique dream. Acharyal appeared before him and said, "Undertake the operation. You will become alright".

Next morning, the American surgeon approached Sri Sastry on his own and said, "Sastriji, I will do the operation. I will also donate my blood if it matches. The surgery is likely to be successful".

Sri Ganesh underwent the operation. He recovered completely and is very agile now.

Acharyal was camping at Bangalore. A large procession was arranged. It was to take place at 9 a.m. But thick clouds started pouring rain and threatened to thwart our efforts. I conveyed my anxiety to Acharyal. He just looked up, but said nothing. Soon the clouds dispersed and the procession proceeded on a grand scale.

As the procession went through the busy roads of Bangalore, I met Sri Narasimha Murthy, (later better known as Master Hiranya) near a hotel. After his father's demise, he ran into several difficulties. He was sleeping on pavements and leading the life of a nomad. I took the boy to Acharyal and explained his plight to Him. Acharyal plucked a rose from the palanquin and blessed him. Now he is in a very good position and is also famous.

Sri Thyli Sivaswamy of Bangalore lost his eyesight due to haemorrhage. When I learnt about this, I wrote to Acharyal and sought His benediction. Acharyal sent Prasada to him. After a few days his eyesight was restored.

Once, Sri Birla had arranged for a Yagna near Harihar in Karnataka. The estimate ran into lakhs of rupees. Sri Malswamy, a friend of mine, sought my help to invite Acharyal for the Yagna. Acharyal declined the invitation. Till now that Yagna has not been performed.

SRI A.P.S.S. NADAR

(The following is based on an account in the book, 'Abhinava Vidyatheertha Vijayam'.)

In 1965, there was a programme of Acharyal in Sivakasi. Some prominent people of the city asked me, "Sringeri is the abode of Sri Rishyashringa Maharishi. Such being the case, will it rain when Sringeri Acharyal comes here?" After thinking, I confidently replied, "Yes, it will rain" Some remained incredulous.

On Acharyal's arrival, it rained heavily. The doubts in the minds of those who had posed the query earlier were cleared. After that, my mental dependence on Acharyal was engendered.

In 1969, I went to Madras with my sister's grandson. I stayed in a hotel there. On learning that Acharyal was camping at R.A.Puram, I thought of having His Darshanam. Asking the boy to stay in the room, I went for a bath. On returning, I found the boy missing. "Where was I to search for the boy in a big city like Madras? What answer could I give to those who had sent him with me?" These were some of the queries that arose in my mind and alarmed me. I decided to seek Acharyal's divine favour. I went to Him and prostrated, but as there was a huge crowd. I did not find any opportunity to converse with Him.

The next day, I sought His audience. Affectionately He said, "Come in" I explained my predicament to Him. Acharyal was silent for a moment. "He will come", He assured and blessed me. I left quite satiated.

On the following day, at 6 a.m., the phone rang. I learnt that the boy had reached Sivakasi safely. Is it not true that Acharyal's words are infallible?

DR. SATYAVRATA

(The material is based on an article in the Kanhada book, ‘Jagadguru’.)

I learnt from Sri M.P.L. Sastry that a seminar on ‘Sri Adi Shankara and His works' was being organised from May 6th 1970 to May 12th at Sringeri. I was very eager to participate in it but could not proceed unless I obtained permission from the University. Sri M.P.L. Sastry wrote a recommendation letter. Days passed but no clearance seemed to be forthcoming. My anxiety grew and when nothing was heard even on May 5th, I lost hopes. Surprisingly, on May 6th I received a phone message from Sri R.V.Raman, Superintendent of the University, that I could proceed to attend the Seminar.

At Sringeri, the symposium went on to my satisfaction, with His Holiness addressing the scholarly gathering every evening. On the last day, the participants gathered for Darshanam. I was introduced. Even in the brief conversation that ensued I was highly impressed by the Jagadguru's memory. While most of the scholars left that night, I planned to leave the next morning with Sri Venkataramanappa.

That night, my wife felt feverish and was unable to sleep. I too, did not doze off. The next morning, I realised that leaving would not be advisable on account of my wife's condition. Later, being curious to see the Chandramouleeswara, Lingam, both of us went for the night Puja. I took my seat in the front. His Holiness, who was performing the worship, noticed me and flashed at me a benign smile.

After the Puja we went to see Him. On seeing me the Jagadguru said, "I wanted to send someone to call you but you have yourself come". It was only then that I came to know that it was the will of the Guru that had delayed my de parture.

SRI B.L. SUBBARAYA MURTHY

(Sri Subbaraya Murthy is very dear to Acharyal's heart He has had the privilege of driving Acharyal's car during our Guru's tours. Strange are the ways in which Acharyal attracts. The following narrative testifies to this.)

As far as my memory goes, I had played marbles with His Holiness in the year 1927-28 when He was a young boy studying at Bangalore. Two deaf boys also used to play with us. Thereafter, my contact with Him ceased, for I left Bangalore. From my father I learnt that He became the pontiff of the Sringeri Sharada Peetam. As for myself, I was traditional till around 1934 and then became an atheist.

In 1961, I heard that His Holiness was coming to Bangalore. His palanquin procession was to pass through Avenue Road which was fittingly decorated. I scoffingly viewed the pomp and did not concern myself with Him. My wife, however, pined to see Him. Being concerned with my work and earning money, I did not bother to take her to the Math. About a month passed thus. One day I sensed her acute disappointment. Moved, I told her that I would drop her at the Math and pick her up at 9 p.m. She was overjoyed. Promptly at nine I arrived in my car and she joined me. The Puja was to commence late and she had to return disappointed. This went on for a few days. Finally, I permitted her to stay till the end of the Puja.

One day it was around 10 p.m. and still she had not come out. So I walked in. His Holiness had completed the Puja and was walking towards the shrines of Shankara and Sharada. I stood at a corner of the hall. His eyes fell on me. Benevolently He asked me my name. Somehow He fascinated me. The reason I knew not and shall perhaps never know. Thereafter I gradually longed to be with Him. The then Private Secretary of His Holiness, the late Sri Lakshmi Narayana Sastry knew my brother. My contact with him was a factor which induced me to perform Pada Puja. What exactly made me want to do Pada Puja in the presence of His Holiness? Again, I have no explanation to offer. Since the middle sixties I began regularly driving the Jagadguru's car and my contacts grew. It was He, who after making enquiries regarding my work, gave me my present house and permission to house my workshop there. Even today, I lay no claims to spiritual interests. Still my attraction to Him waxes with the passage of time.

GURUBHAKTHAMANI SRI K.R. SUNDARAM IYER

(Sri Sundaram Iyer is a long standing and very well known devotee of Acharyal. Not only he but also his family have done a great deal by way of service to the Math. The title, ‘Gurubhakthamani’ (Gem amongst those devoted to the Guru) conferred upon him by our Acharyal itself serves to describe him.)

I had heard of Acharyal but got the opportunity to have His Darshanam only in 1957. Since then I have been increasingly feeling the torrential flow of His grace. After my contact with Him I have noticed a change in me for the better. I do not ask Him for material gain and only pray to Him to make me truly good.

In our family it is a practice to offer Kanikkai to Acharyal on all important functions. When the marriage of one of my sons was fixed, Acharyal was camping near our village, Kallidaikuruchi. Hence we were able to directly make the offering to Him. His reply gladdened us immensely and revealed His kindness. He said, "I have myself come in person to accept your offering."

He even graces unasked. During one of my visits to Him, He asked me to bring my wife with me. I went to my village and came with her. Unexpectedly, Acharyal blessed her with initiation into a Mantra.

His capacity to bring rain is well-known. I too have had occasion to witness this. I had gone to the outskirts of Madras city to receive Him. As soon as His car crossed the city border, it started raining. With His blessings a Chandi Homa was performed. During the Poorna Ahuti a heavy downpour was there.

I consider it our good fortune that He has permitted my family to serve Him. For instance, how lucky we are that my family got the chance to contribute to the renovation of the Malahanikareswara temple in Sringeri. I pray that He may give us the opportunity to serve Him more and also the capacity to do so.

SRI K.M BALASUBRAMANIAM

(Sri Balasubramaniam was working at Anil Starch Products, Delhi. When Acharyal came to Delhi in 1977, Sri Balasubramaniam felt a change coming over him. He resigned his job and settled down at Sringeri. Subsequently, he served as Acharyal's Personal Assistant. Presently he is employed in Easwaran & Sons Engrs. Ltd. Herein he narrates some of the interesting incidents witnessed by him when he was Acharyal's P.A. A few of the incidents reported by him have been included in the biographical part of the book and are omitted here.) During 1981-82 tour Acharyal camped at Bombay. On our journey towards Ambarnath (the halt before Bombay), we were driving on a precarious ghat-section. Suddenly on a tip of a curve, Sri Mahasannidhanam asked to stop the convoy. He got out of the car and walked towards a flat rock on the edge of the road and sat on it enjoying the scenery for a considerable time. No importance was paid by anyone of us to this until we reached Ambarnath and heard about what had happened to the entourage which followed us.

The Math bus, which was coming behind us that day, had some problem with the brakes. On approaching the ghat roads, the driver discovered that the brakes had completely failed and he could not control the vehicle's speed. He warned all the passengers about the dangerous condition and asked them to be calm, but alert. Although the passengers got panicky, the driver was bold and dexterously controlled the bus by changing the gears. Eventually he brought the vehicle to a halt and sent a message through another vehicle. Later, when enquiries were made to ascertain the details of the miraculous escape it was found out that the bus came to a halt against a small piece of flat rock opposite the rock on which Acharyal sat earlier watching the scenery.

Elaborate arrangements were made for the Chaturamnaya Sammelanam being held at Sringeri on May 1, 1979. Thousands of devotees had gathered from all over the world to witness the historic meet of the four Jagadgurus seated together. But the sky was overcast with dark clouds threatening thunderous rains. It was as if all the Devatas had assembled to enjoy the occasion. But some of us were scared at the gathering clouds and expressed our anxiety to His Holiness. Acharyal was unperturbed and when He was crossing the river He glanced at the sky and assured us that the Almighty would never pose any difficulty for auspicious activities. To everyone who had seen the clouds that day it was unbelievable that there was not a drop of rain. There was only a pleasant breeze.

Sri Kasi Iyer (of India Cements) had undertaken to conduct Atirudram at Kallidaikurichi with Acharyal's blessings. It was the monsoon season and yet devoutly everything was carried out. On the first day, Sankalpa and Japa went off without any problems. Huge Pandals were erected for Japa, Homa, feeding, etc.

Although precautions were taken, after three days the rains were so heavy that devotees were very anxious and worried. When nothing could be done to save the Pandal and it appeared that the unabating rains would not allow the Atirudram to be conducted, Sri Kasi Iyer prayed for Acharyal's blessings, which alone could save the situation. His Holiness smilingly told him not to worry as Lord Shiva would not test His devotees when they were performing the Homa with sincerity and selflessness for the benefit of the world. From next day on until the last day of Atirudram the sky was clear and sunny. Later it was learnt that the surrounding regions had plentiful rains which were helpful to farmers.

His Holiness was in Rajapalayam for Chandi Homa performed by Sri Ramasubramania Raja. He was invited to grace a school in Rajapalayam and bless the students and teachers. As He sat in the car, Sri Mahasannidhanam asked His attendant Mahabala Bayar , to bring a particular box from His room. There was no particular use for the box in that day's scheduled programme. When His Holiness arrived at the school and was proceeding for the function, one of the school teachers approached with tearful eyes. She prayed to Him for His grace as she had lost her ‘Tirumangalyam’ that morning and was at a loss to imagine the consequences. His Holiness assured her and immediately asked Mahabala to bring the pouch in the box that had been brought. He found a beautiful Tirumangalyam and gave it to the lady with His blessings. All the people around could not contain their surprise. Later His Holiness explained that He asked for the box to be brought only on an impulse and there was no reason for it to be taken on that day. Strangely there was only one Tirumangalyam in it.

SRIMATHI AND SRI H.K.S. RAO

(Smt. and Sri H.K.S. Rao reside at Bangalore and are ardent devotees of our Acharyal. They have had the privilege of long and close association with Him, having even stayed long at Sringeri. Sri Rao, before retirement had represented the Indian Government abroad.)

Way back in 1965, I (Sri H.K.S. Rao) fell down from a bus in Delhi. As the injury was minor, I ignored it totally. But after a year I started experiencing pain in my knees. During this period, I visited Sringeri and the camps of His Holiness several times but did not mention my problem to Him. In 1968, I was posted to Colombo as a representative of Indian Government. I was diffident to take up that responsibility because of the discomfort in my legs. Before going abroad, I went to Sringeri to have Darshanam. One evening His Holiness invited me for a walk and I readily went with Him.The stroll extended for almost two hours. Surprisingly I experienced no pain. From that day onwards the knee complaint totally vanished. The noteworthy point is that the Jagadguru cured me though I did not even mention my pain to Him.

One evening my companions and I wished to go to the Kalabairava Temple in Sringeri. As the cattle were let loose we were not in a position to proceed. When His Holiness learnt of our desire, He willingly personally accompanied us to the temple. He also gave us some fruits that He had brought with Him. He came up to the temple and paid obeisance to the deity. His concern in satisfying the wishes of His devotees is evident from this incident.

At Sringeri, His Holiness conversed with us one night, after Puja, till 10.45 p.m. When we took leave, He compassionately enquired whether we needed an escort to take us to the Shankara Krupa guest house situated on the northern side of the river Tunga. His concern for devotees is so touching!

During the Jagadguru's tour of North India in 1977, I was proceeding towards Kanti in the advance party. His Holiness was supposed to address a gathering at Kanti. The Principal of a local college, who was supposed to receive Him, felt sad that the power supply had failed. As soon as I reached that place, I suggested to him to procure some Petromax lamps as an alternative. Surprisingly, as soon as His Holiness reached that place, the electrical supply was restored and the lights came on.

During one of our visits to Sringeri, I wanted to record our conversation with His Holiness. My elder son operated the recorder. The Jagadguru did not raise any explicit objections to the recording. The next day, however, He enquired whether all that He had said had got recorded. My son replied that inexplicably some portions were not found in the recording. His Holiness clarified by remarking that He had wanted those portions not to go into the tape. This incident makes clear that His will ever prevails.

I once invited Him to my house for Pada Puja. Even though Mahasannidhanam was not keeping good health that day, He visited my residence and blessed us. His compassion was the motivating force.

(What follows is the narrative of Smt. H.K.S. Rao.)

In 1966, when His Holiness was camping at Delhi, the Heads of Puri, Dwaraka and Badri Maths decided to launch a programme for the abolition of cow slaughter and invited Him to join them. As He is not interested in politics, He abstained.

A certain newspaper in Delhi published an article stating that the Sringeri Jagadguru did not participate in the cow slaughter abolition programme as He supported Muslims. The article also criticised His Holiness's meeting with Zakir Hussain. When I read this article I became extremely sad. My son sent an explanation, the contents of which are as follows: "Sringeri Jagadguru does not interfere in politics. One should not write or publish untrue articles. The people who claim to protect the cows fail to provide anything to the cow that comes near their gates. Unlike these people, His Holiness is looking after hundreds of cows at Sringeri. Though He is a Peetadhipathi, He is very simple. It is a false statement that He gives Darshanam only to the rich."

Referring to Zakir Hussain's visit, my son explained that our Guru does not refuse His blessings to anyone who seeks Him. This was published by the newspaper. It gave me satisfaction that it had been possible to do such service to Him, though He is the last person to mind criticisms.

Being an epitome of compassion, He has kindly accepted some humble offerings made by me. For instance, I once offered Him a satin saffron cloth. He not only accepted it but elated me by immediately using it as an Asana Vastram (cloth spread on seat). On another occasion I offered Him a shawl and later a Burmese fan. Apart from kindly taking what was submitted, He even used the items on many occasions.

The function relating to the opening of the Shankara Vidya Kendra was over only at 12 O' clock. The taxi that was available refused to ply for us. My daughter was dissatisfied that our Guru was not helping us. Hardly had we gone 50 yards when a black car approached us. The driver offered a lift. I hesitated but the driver put me at ease by informing that he was coming from the Math. He dropped us at our place and went away. Our Guru had indeed helped us.

SRI KALASA SHAMANNA

(Sri Shamanna, who resides at Bangalore is a lawyer by profession. He lives close to the Shankara Math and is equally close to Acharyal.)

Innumerable are the blessings showered on me by my Guruji His Holiness. He has warned me in my dreams, guided me in my difficult moments, and has even saved my life, when normally, I should have crashed. Putting it in words would be very difficult indeed. The Publishers have requested me to narrate a few incidents for which I feel very proud. Here are a few of them to prove the abundant grace of His Holiness. In all these cases, prayers were addressed in far away places and boons were granted immediately.

In the year 1970, on my first visit abroad I went to Bangkok, on my way to Japan. Only 100 dollars were permitted at that time, for travel abroad. Expectation of help from a friend did not materialise. I was forlorn and lost. I had thought of even returning to India midway. I offered my prayers to Guruji. I felt His presence in my dream, with His usual illuminating smile. All of a sudden, on the very next day, a stranger on the street met me and enquired of me why I was looking depressed. I was taken aback and told him that being a vegetarian, I was finding it very difficult to locate a vegetarian eating place. He invited me to his place for lunch and fed me with vegetarian food. Then I narrated to him my plight and how I was facing a financial crisis. Immediately, he transferred my baggage from YMCA Hostel to his place and played host to me for the remainder of my journey. He showed me all places of interest and entertained me royally, and even helped me financially. I realise that behind this miracle there were the divine blessings of my Guruji.

Here is an incident where, even without my consciously soliciting His Holiness's grace, I was saved in time by His benevolent grace.

It was in 1975, I was driving alone from Tumkur to Bangalore, and the speed was nearly 70 to 80 km per hour. Suddenly, a lorry shot from the opposite direction in the deviation road with dazzling headlights. I was blinded and was in a daze. I lost control over the car. Only after a minute or so,to my astonishment, I realised that I had stopped the car. Then I saw the image of Guruji standing in front of my car holding His right hand up and having His usual illuminating smile. I got down from the car. It was all dark. At the spot where my car had stopped the road had been cut off and a parapet wall had been built across. My car had stopped just one foot behind the wall. In the normal course, I should have smashed my car against the parapet wall. It was only the mysterious signal given by Guruji that had saved my life. Normally, I could not have noticed the parapet, as there were neither any red lights nor any other signal.

After this incident, I changed my car in 1977. I fixed the photo of Guruji in my new car. It is my practice to offer my prayers to Him before I start my car on any day. After that, at no time has my car given any trouble during the journey. If minor troubles arise, I have always found help easily at the point of trouble.

In January 1980, I went to the house of one of my relations in Kumara Park Extension at about 9 p.m. parked the car on the road and went inside the house. When myself and my wife came out of the house, say after 10 minutes, to my great shock, I noticed that my car was missing. It had been stolen. Naturally, I prayed to Guruji and went to Seshadripuram Police Station and lodged my complaint. The Police Officer in charge was indeed very courteous and the Police radio control room started sending out messages.

At about 1.30 a.m. same night, I received a message from the Police Control Room, that my car had been traced in K.G.Road and that I could come and collect it in the morning. I went to the Police Station in the morning and drove back. All the articles, except a tiffin carrier,were all intact . In the usual course,either a stepney, battery or some other valuable part of the car should have been removed by the miscreants. But, nothing had been removed and no damage done to the car.

I 'should have passed this incident as a prank played by a young trickster. But the details I found afterwards were more intriguing. Only the extraordinary powers of the Guruji perhaps had saved my car. The Police found after investigation that, after removing my car from K.P. Extension, the miscreants had gone to 18th Cross, Malleswaram at about 10.30 p.m. and had waylaid a pedestrian and relieved him of his wrist watch, transistor and some cash. Then while returning, they found the car developing trouble and halting often. This discouraged the desperadoes, who reached K.G.Road at about midnight to abandon this car and found another Fiat car which was more attractive and parked nearby. So, they drove away with the other car.

Even to this day, unfortunately, according to the Police, that car has not been traced.

It is my sincere belief that, but for the blessings of His Holiness, whose photo has been installed in the car, the culprits would have removed valuable parts in my car before abandoning it or would have driven the car itself away. I have no doubt that the circumstances that led to my car being saved were naturally due to my prayers to my Guruji.

The following incident is more a personal one. I am narrating this incident to share my joy and happiness with other Sishyas of the great Guruji.

My parents were staunch devotees of Guruji, and we used to meet Him at the Math at Sringeri very frequently and used to have Darshanam and blessings. We even used to have discussions regarding professional matters. On most of these occasions, my mother, a staunch devotee,used to accompany us.

I am the eldest son of the family and it was my mother's wish that she should have a grandson . Whenever she used to meet Guruji, she prayed for the same. He used to merely smile. In September 1973, when we went to Sringeri for Navarathri with my mother, she repeated her request. To her great satisfaction, Guruji assured her that her prayers would be rewarded. A few days later He gave Darshanam in my dream and I felt as though some light had passed through my body. When, in the morning I informed this incident to my wife, I was surprised to hear from her that she too had similar experience in a dream. Guruji had at last blessed us and a son was born to us during that year.

He is the very embodiment of divine grace. He is an ocean of kindness. It is my feeling that it is His boundless love to His Sishyas which protect us from dangers and misery that engulf our mundane existence.

SRI A.D. GOPALAN

(Sri A.D.Gopalan lives in Bombay. Both he and his wife are close devotees of Acharyal.)

It was during the Navarathri celebrations of 1981 that I had been to Sringeri to have Darshan of His Holiness. I stayed for 4 to 5 days. After performing Biksha and Pujas in all the temples, I received Mantrakshata and left for Bangalore by the night bus leaving Sriṅgeri at 8.30 p.m. Having left Koppa, the bus was, around midnight, passing through dense forest. Suddenly the glass window pane by the side of my seat shattered and pieces fell on me. All other passengers asked the driver to halt the bus immediately. I requested him not to stop and asked him to proceed a kilometre before halting. I told all the passengers that this incident could not be an one man show and must be the work of a gang of dacoits. However, nobody heeded my words and the bus was stopped.

Most of the passengers, except ladies, got down to find out who threw the stone. They found some light in a small hut and proceeded there to catch the culprit. I got down and stayed at a distance. I, however, did not join them. Suddenly a gang armed with sticks and stones surrounded the passengers and started attacking them. The passengers ran towards the bus and as they were entering it, were beaten by the dacoits. I was witnessing all this from a distance. The bus started.

I was left behind in the jungle at midnight with all my luggage in the bus. After about half an hour, thinking that the dacoits had left, I came up to the road. To my surprise, they caught hold of me but fortunately did not assault me. Even though I was nervous, and shivering due to fear and cold, I mustered courage to inform them, in Tamil, that I had come to Sringeri for Darshan of the Jagadguru and Sharadambal.I requested them not to harm me. The dacoits, whether they understood me or not, left me. Suddenly the words, "Do not stay. Run", flashed in my mind. I immediately ran in the direction in which the bus had gone. It was a cold and dark night. I could not even see the road properly. I had run for about forty five minutes, when I saw some tube lights. That meant some human habitation was there. This gave me courage. Some hutments were there and dogs started barking. I took my seat on a bench which was outside. My mind started agitating as to why I was put into such a situation. Fortunately, the dacoits did not rob my purse. I had about Rs. 60/—, the bus ticket to Bangalore and a small photo of His Holiness Mahasannidhanam. I had left everything in the bus, including the Mantrakshata. Since I had about Rs. 60/—, I decided I could catch some bus in the morning and go back to Sringeri. After half an hour another passenger came running but he was bleeding. He was beaten by the dacoits who even robbed his purse. We both stayed there the whole night without sleep. Early next morning as we started walking along the road to the nearest bus stop, we saw a lorry proceeding towards Bangalore. The driver offered us a lift upto Chikmagalore. There the Traffic Inspector of Road Transport Department was very cooperative, being a religious man himself.

A passenger from Bangalore, Sri Subramanyan, had left my belongings at the Police Station at Aldur and lodged a complaint that some passengers might have been left behind. I gathered this information when I telephoned to Bangalore to my brother-in-law. I immediately proceeded to Aldur and the Sub-Inspector there was an extremely good person. He handed over all my belongings to me, as he had instruction to do so. The Traffic Inspector also permitted me to travel by next bus to Bangalore. I reached Bangalore by another bus at night. All this incident clearly shows that I was destined to suffer that night,but pure devotion to God and the Jagadguru Sri Sringeri Shankaracharya, the Incarnation of God, can save any person from calamity.

SRI SRINIVASA RAGHAVAN

(Sri Srinivasa Raghavan of Madurai is a leading lawyer. Though a Vaishnavite his devotion to Acharyal is marvellous. Herein he narrates some of his experiences.)

In 1972, I and some of my friends wanted to construct a Kalyana Mandapam in Madurai. We decided to consult Acharyal and for the first time in my life I had His Darshanam. He gave His blessings and ordered a Math official to give Rs. 1,001/— towards the building fund. On reaching Madurai we were able to raise a sum of Rs. 50,000/— by way of donation. Within 15 days the money for the construction was collected and the Kalyana Mandapam was built.

The Kumbhabhisheka of Rameswaram Temple was fixed on 5.2.1975. Some people who were opposed to this date filed a suit in court. The court unanimously decided Sringeri Acharyal as the authority regarding the fixation of date for the Kumbhabhisheka. The Bar Chamber selected me as the Commissioner to wait on Acharyal to get the suitable date. The announcement to that effect was published in the leading newspaper, "The Hindu". I was selected because the Bar Council felt that any person from the Smartha sect may not be impartial. Even before I started for Sringeri I received a Srimukham from Acharyal confirming the earlier date. Acharyal also consented to grace Rameswaram for the Kumbhabisheka.

I, along with Sri S.R. Sankara Iyer, Sri Padmanabha Iyer and Sri Subramaniam started for Rameswaram by car from Madurai. On the way, near Thirubuvanam the car met with an accident. The car was badly smashed by a bus. Astonishingly, neither the car passengers nor the bus passengers were injured. Later, my friends and I engaged another car and reached Rameswaram. Only due to Acharyal's grace we escaped without suffering even minor injuries.

I, as Assistant Secretary of Renovation Committee, was engaged in the renovation of the old Math building at Madurai. Before embarking on the project I obtained blessings from Acharyal. During the construction, a labourer fell down from the second floor. Surprisingly, he did not suffer any injury. On an another occasion, a painter, who was drawing pictures on the ceiling, escaped injuries though the scaffold on which he was lying crumbled.

One Sri Solanki, who was occupying a portion of the building before renovation, expressed his inability to pay the rent of Rs. 1,000/-- and an advance of Rs. 10,000/— fixed by me after renewal. As I refused to budge, he approached Acharyal and explained his plight. The ever compassionate Acharyal immediately asked me to let the building to Sri Solanki without any rent.

SRI C.K. GOPALA RAO

(Sri Gopal Rao shows how the notion entertained by some that our Acharyal lives in an ivory tower is falsified by his experiences.)

My father was not of the usual religious type though he was devoted to God. In 1962,when he had built a new house, he invited Mahasannidhanam to grace it. His Holiness readily consented in spite of my father not being familiar to Him. This indicates the Jagadguru’s compassion and easy accessibility Even when His Holiness visited Bangalore, some years later, He remembered us and visited our place to grace my father who was then seriously ill.

Sometime in the year 1970 I went for Darshanam of His Holiness at the period when "Laksha Modaka Homa" was performed at Shimoga. He took immense interest in conducting the Homa and was part and parcel of the activities. He also gave several discourses to spread spiritual knowledge among the people. I felt that the commonly held misconception that the Heads of the Maths live in ivory towers was shattered by the very interest that He took in the Homa.

I have been fortunate to receive initiation into Ganapathi Mantra from Him. It was a great blessing for me and I constantly cherish it.

After the initiation I observed a change for the better in my mental make up and gradually started taking greater interest in the philosophy of Sri Shankara.

SMT. RAJAM KRISHNAMURTHY

(Herein Smt. Rajam Krishnamurthy of Kallidaikurichi describes how Acharyal entered her life.)

Sri Mahasannidhanam has several times toured places like Tirunelveli, Kallidaikurichi and neighbouring villages. I had frequent occasion to have His Darshanam. But what motivated was neither Guru Bhakti nor a desire to serve Him. I went out of respect for my elders and because I felt that it was my duty to behold the Jagadguru of Sringeri. It was only in 1977 that the significance of His Darshanam dawned on me. I was unable to attend the Vardhanti celebrations but got an opportunity to go to Madras a week later. My father-in-law Sri S.N.N. Shankaralinga Iyer was a sincere devotee. Our Guru too was extremely compassionate to him. Hence,when Acharyal asked me, "Why did no one from your family come for the functions?", I felt very guilty. But the tone with which He spoke was that of a father mildly chiding his daughter. Indeed I felt like a daughter in His presence. Thereafter I began to get a pep by His Darshanams to an otherwise mundane life. Devotion, dispassion and knowledge are some of the divine Prasada given by our Jagadguru.

Later, I got a chance to go to Sringeri and spend two weeks there. Acharyal frequently granted Darshanam. Sringeri was so captivating that the fortnight seemed to have passed in a trice. I received Mantrakshata and permission to leave. An elder asked me if I wished to have a private audience with His Holiness. On my answering in the affirmative, he passed on my request to Acharyal who sent for me. There was so much I wanted to say but in His presence I sat transfixed. Before could complete a single sentence about some problems relating to my second son, I was in tears. Quickly Acharyal raised His right hand in a gesture of benediction and told me not to worry as everything would be alright. He questioned me whether my son's Upanayanam had been performed. He proceeded to emphasize the advantages of performing Sandhyavandanam and the ill effects of omitting to do it. He then instructed me to tell my son to do his Sandhyavandanam in a fitting manner. Having paid obeisance, I left. I felt as though a great burden had been removed. On recollecting how I longed to meet Him, how opportunity knocked at the appropriate moment, how I put forward my problems and how the Jagadguru solved them, I am convinced that the whole incident was certainly no coincidence. All that transpired was solely due to Acharyal's grace. It speaks volumes of our Guru's motherly affection and His stress on our performing our duties.

One Friday morning, just before 'Brahma Muhurtam' (before dawn) I had a dream. Acharyal was camping at a place unfamiliar to me. I was one amongst the thousands of people who waited in front of a house to have His Darshanam. On Acharyal's appearing, I prostrated before Him. He blessed us with holy water. I wanted to speak to Him and sensing this He flashed a compassionate smile. Words failed me and all I could do was to keep looking at His divine form. "Let us speak through our minds" I heard. Ecstasy overwhelmed me and I closed my eyes. The Jagadguru queried, "Are you meditating?". "I do not meditate well", I responded. He began to teach me the way to meditate. Unfortunately, I was unable to take full advantage of the golden opportunity.

Such is Acharyal's grace that He has motherly care for us not only when we are awake but also in our dreams.

GURUBHAKTAMANI SRI P.S. SUBRAMANIAM

(Sri P.S. Subramaniam is too well known to deserve any introduction. His devotion, skill as an engineer and service to the cause of the Math have all rendered him an almost indispensible devotee of the Math.)

My first personal contact with our Acharyal was in early 1957, at Papanasam, Tirunelveli district. Needless to say that Acharyal's radiance had telling effect on me, adding to the spell I was already in from childhood at the very mention of Sringeri.

The faith of His Holiness in Vedas, Sastras and Philosophy is reflected in every one of His movements. When His Holiness was camping in Cuddalore, I and some friends went there and, on the way, one in our company asked me as to what His Holiness views were in regard to the wearing of tuft. Just a few weeks before this, myself and one of my staff went to Kalady where His Holiness was camping and the moment I, along with my assistant and many others, prostrated at His feet, His Holiness drew our attention, with great joy, to the tuft which my assistant alone in the whole crowd was retaining. I narrated this incident to my friend, the enquirer. Later, in the public Upanyasam in Cuddalore, His Holiness, while discoursing on 'Swadharma', said that, "Yama, the God of Death will catch hold of your tuft if you transgress Dharma" and in a depressed tone added, "Alas! Tuft has disappeared in the present times". I was struck at the divine way in which way my friend's doubts were cleared.

I had a dream during which I had a vivid vision of Acharyal blessing me and another devotee together. I had little hope of realising this in practice although a desire to make a journey to His Holiness' camp was persisting in me for a long time. The next day after the experience of the dream, the very friend devotee phoned to me to say that Acharyal had indicated a wish that I may call at His camp immediately and that he was also going there. Needless to say, I rushed to the camp. As soon as the Acharyal saw us both together, He remarked, "So you both have come" The wishes of His Holiness act like wireless waves. One should only attune himself to receive it. Sometime before 1965, I was intensely aspiring to get a Sivalingam for my personal Puja, with His Holiness's blessings. I had collected one Spatika Lingam and another one shaped out of green jade and I was planning to get them blessed by His Holiness. In all my visits to camps (my visits were very frequent those days) I failed to take the Lingams with me out of sheer forgetfulness or other preoccupation. In January 1965, His Holiness was camping in my village, Palamadai, Tirunelveli district and I went there with my family taking care this time to carry the Lingams. My place of stay was in the guest house of India Cements at Talayuthu a mile or two from Palamadai, but as though God willed it, at every trip from Talayuthu to Palamadai I failed to take the Lingams with me. On the last day (when I offered Pada Puja and Bhiksha), His Holiness called us and bade us sit down to receive Mantrakshata. Soon after, He asked an attendant to, fetch "the Lingam which is in a box" and gave me the Lingam (which was a small Spatikam replica of Chandramouleeswara). We were amazed and I submitted to Acharyal the story of my having collected two Lingams, my plan and its failure to place them before Him. I further recounted how, even at that very moment, they were safely lying in my box at Talayuthu and how miraculous it was to receive the desired object from the lotus hands of His Holiness. Instead of getting into a mood of wonder, Acharyal uttered in subdued tone that it was all the grace of Chandramouleeswara. I was dazed as though in stupor at such a reaction and to me Acharyal's form appeared to have melted into a embodiment of humility.

In the last part of the 1961 tour of Acharyal, in the month of January the camp was at T.Nagar, Madras. I requested Acharyal to bless me by staying in my house for three days from 11th January and it was accepted. Unfortunately, heavy rains lashed Madras and situation worsened from 10th morning. My house was not big. So I approached Acharyal, offered my salutations and explained Him the situation. Acharyal, with His characteristic love and beaming smile, said, "Do not worry All will be set right with the blessings of Lord Chandramouleeswara". But till 4 O'clock on 11th, the rain did not abate. It was pouring down heavily. Only half an hour was there for Acharyal's arrival. I did not know what to do. I sincerely prayed to Acharyal. To my great excitement, suddenly the rain stopped completely and sun came out of the clouds. Acharyal arrived on time. In the Anugraha Bhashanam in the evening Acharyal said, "Ishwara is all powerful. He does not let down His devotee who has total faith in Him". He cited the stoppage of rain that day as an example of that. One can easily see that whatever Acharyal says comes true.

Acharyal usually yields to the sincere requests of disciples. In 1959, I went to Vellore in the company of Sri Narayanaswami and had Darshanam. I requested Acharyal to grace Madras. His reply, however, was not favourable. I felt dissatisfied and expressed my feelings. Acharyal responded by saying, "I will come to Madras but not now. I will inform you". When Acharyal was in Andhra Pradesh, He took the final decision and a telegram was received that He would observe Chaturmasyam at Madras. I intimated Sri Anantaramakrishnann who said, "I will give a blank cheque. We should have a reception on a scale that Madras has not witnessed before". Acharyal did come as promised and there was a grand procession and a large crowd. Not only does what Acharyal say come true but also what He wishes. My personal experience itself proves this. Once I went to Palamadai and offered my obeisance. After Puja, Acharyal told me, "Yesterday I enquired whether you had come and I was told that you had not. I wondered how it was possible that you were not present. Now you have come".

Acharyal, in His grace, has given me many an opportunity to serve Him. For instance,I have had the privilege of lending my technical services for the construction of the cutstone Gopuram for the Sharadambal temple, Vimanam over Paramacharyal's Samadhi, Shankara Krupa guest house, numerous quarters in the Bangalore Math, terrace of Shardambal temple employing a special design in precast reinforced concrete and prayer hall at T.Nagar Math in Madras. This apart I have had the honour of organising functions in which Acharyal has participated and of editing an informative souvenir released in 1979 in commemoration of the Silver Jubilee of the Peetarohanam of our Acharyal. I firmly believe that it was solely Acharyal's grace which permitted me to be of service.

SRI GANAPATHI SUBRAMANYA AVADHANI

(Sri Avadhanigal is the hereditary Purohita of the Sringeri Math. He was born and brought up at Sringeri and had associations with Acharyal even prior to Acharyal's being initiated into Sanyasa. Numerous are the incidents narrated by him. Most of them have been incorporated into the biography part of this book and as such have not been included here.) Sri Shankara Jayanthi celebrations were being held in Hyderabad. A letter was sent to Sringeri requesting Acharyal to send a representative for the celebrations. I was sent by Acharyal to represent the Math. It was night when I reached the Hyderabad Math. Sri R. Krishnaswamy Iyer was delivering his address in English. On noticing me, Sri Iyer welcomed me heartily and took me straight away to the dais. He later announced my arrival and told the gathering that I would speak. He requested me to say a few words at least on Acharyal and the Sringeri Math.

I felt very nervous. I trembled with fear for I was no orator exposed to addressing gatherings. Then I prayed to Acharyal, sought His guidance and stood up to speak.

I felt as if I did not see any person in front — I beheld only Acharyal everywhere. The place seemed to be Sringeri. I spoke freely for an hour. The audience later expressed their appreciation.

This really took me by surprise. I wondered how I spoke. The next day some portion of my speech had come the morning dailies. When somebody informed me, I remarked truthfully, "This effort is not mine and the result can never be attributed to my talent. Things went on by Acharyal's grace".

The following incident transpired when Acharyal was camping in Lucknow.

On a night, when everybody was enjoying the Puja, an intruder dashed into the place. On seeing him wearing coat, trousers and shoes, the guard tried to stop him. That intruder simply brushed him aside and sprang forward. When he went near the Pooja Mandapam, I and many others gathered around him and tried to prevent him from advancing further. Being a well built man, he overcame the opposition.

Acharyal's attention was diverted to the scene. He ordered us to free him. On being freed, he moved closer to dais. Acharyal ordered him to sit down. He obeyed like an innocent child and squatted in Vajrasana with joined palms.

He quietly watched the Puja without diverting his attention elsewhere. Acharyal, after finishing the Puja, asked him to come next day at eight O'clock in the morning. He expressed, "Acharyal is a manifestation of compassion but the people around are rude. What am I to do if I am treated by them in the same way as today?" Acharyal understood his predicament and advised him to come clean, wearing a dhoti and an upper cloth.

After finishing His morning ablutions, Acharyal told His attendant, "The Sethji who was here yesterday will be coming to see Me. Usher him in". Later the Sethji appeared with a dhoti, shawl and with sandal paste on his forehead as also Vibhuti and a Namam! The Math people were pleasantly surprised to behold him thus. They took him to Acharyal. After some time, the man emerged, beaming. Acharyal had solved all his troubles.

On his way back he met me. I conveyed my apologies to Sethji. When I enquired him as to what made him to approach Acharyal, he gave the following account: He was having a lot of difficulties and was struggling to overcome them. One night he had a peculiar dream. A sage, with a brilliant and smiling countenance, appeared in front of him. On waking up he wondered who it might be and tried to ascertain the reason for the occurrence of the dream. After some days when he was in his shop, he accidentally spotted a child carrying a large photograph. On close scrutiny, he found to his bewilderment that it was the photograph of the sage whom he had beheld in the dream. On enquiry, he learnt that the photo was that of the Jagadguru of Sringeri who was then camping in the city. He was filled with joy and immediately rushed to have Darshanam. My companions and had tried unsuccessfully to stop him. Acharyal had duly blessed him and the grace had infused new strength in him.

SRI GOPALAKRISHNAN

(Sri Gopalakrishnan of Madurai is an auditor. He is very devoted to Acharyal and has also served Him in more ways than one. In this sequel, he narrates his experiences as also those of some of his friends.)

In 1976, I visited Sringeri for the first time along with my wife, eldest brother Prof. K. Vasudevan and his wife. We reached Sringeri at around four in the evening. No sooner were we nearing the entrance of the Shankara Krupa (guest house) than we received information that Sri Mahasannidhanam had instructed that the devotees from Madurai be sent to Narasimhavanam immediately. We proceeded there and paid our obeisance. Acharyal made kind enquiries about our welfare and asked us to come for the night Puja. "Do you know the way to Narasimhavanam?", He then queried. On account of the rains, we had come by car. Our driver was a Mohammedan of sharp intellect and great experience. "Do you know the way to again come back here?", we asked him. He replied that the route was simple, for we just had to proceed straight from Shankara Krupa for some distance and then turn right. Shortly before Puja was scheduled to start we commenced our journey. It was raining cats and dogs. The car kept proceeding, but no right-turn seemed to be in sight. The driver assured us that the turning should be ahead. Unfortunately, we were heading along a wrong route which led to Agumbe. On one side of the road, there was a deep ravine and on the other, the steep face of the mountain. We started getting anxious as there was none to seek directions from. Suddenly we saw a person in white attire standing in our path. He beckoned us to stop. "You wish to proceed to Narasimhavanam, is it not?", he asked of his own accord. "This is not the way. Turn the car", he continued. As it was pitch dark, we were not able to get a clear glimpse of his face. The driver was concerned, since the width of the road was inadequate to effect a comfortable turn. The pedestrian offered to give instructions and helped the car to turn. The driver suggested that as our benefactor appeared to be heading towards Sringeri we could give him a lift. We readily consented. Strangely, the man was nowhere to be seen and seemed to have disappeared into thin air. We were thoroughly perplexed as there was no place where he could have disappeared. Nonetheless, we continued our journey and reached Narasimha Vanam where Acharyal was engaged in Puja. "You lost your way, is it?", He asked,turning to us with an innocent smile. It immediately dawned on us that our saviour had been none other than a manifestation of our own Guru.

In 1979, after having Darshanam of Acharyal, I proceeded by car to Erode. I left Erode at 10.30 a.m. on 1-12-79 for Madurai via Dharapuram. On the way to Dharapuram, there was a rivulet near Chinnampalayam. It had been flooded for the past few days and had eroded the road, creating a slushy ditch. Unaware of the nature of the slush the driver drove into it.The car sank upto the chassis and the engine sputtered to a halt. The time was 12.30 in the afternoon and no villagers were in sight. Breaches in the road had necessitated suspension of bus and lorry traffic. My brother K. Ramaswamy was with me in the automobile and both of us prayed to Acharyal for help.A tourist bus accommodating around fifty people came into sight and stopped about fifty feet in front of us. All the occupants of the bus, inclusive of the driver and conductor alighted and came towards us. "We are fifty in number and are able bodied. We can easily lift your car without any problem", they said. By dint of muscle power they hoisted the car, put it on the road and departed. That this bus and the passengers should have appeared at the time of our need and that too at the time when the bus traffic had been suspended was all due entirely to our Guru's mercy

My close friend is having a typewriting institute at Madurai and is a very prosperous man. He was afflicted by glaucoma, an eye disease. The attending doctor said that surgical attention was imperative. Good fortune led my friend to Madras for Acharyal's Darshanam. Elaborate Vardhanthi celebrations were in progress. On the ‘Madurai-Sishyas’ day’ we offered Bhiksha-vandanam. My friend gave vent to his difficulties and sought blessings. "Fear not, all shall be well", said Mahasannidhanam, giving him Mantrakshata and a coconut. By His grace, the need for surgery abated and my friend's problems with his sight ceased.

Another friend of mine, Jyotisha Bhushanam Sri Raghava Iyengar is a great devotee of Acharyal and is also a worshipper of Srividya. Though a Vaishnavite, he meditates upon Acharyal before proceeding with Srividya Upasana. A catastrophic metamorphosis affected the twelve year old son of one Venkatasubramania Iyer, a poor hotel employee. When the boy was returning from school one day, his eyesight became dim without any notice and the lad became thoroughly dis-oriented and dumb. Sri Raghava Iyengar performed a 'Prashnam' and suggested to the father to get a photograph of the Jagadguru of Sringeri. He further instructed that the picture be kept near a wall, garlanded and the boy asked to stare at it. A few days later, the overjoyed and grateful father came to Sri Raghava Iyengar and said that while his son was unable to look at the photograph on the first two days, he had done so on the third and fourth days, and miraculously recovered completely. The boy was even fit to go to school.

Vijayaraghavan, a teenager, was studying for B. Pharm. at Madurai. The boy appeared to be in a dazed condition. He used to mutter to himself and had a blank mind when he went to the examination hall. His body used to jerk in a peculiar fashion and his condition was pitiable. Sri Raghava Iyengar was approached and he looked into the horoscope. Then he gave Vijayaraghavan Acharyal's photograph, told him to keep it in a book and meditate on the Guru. The treatment was quite adequate. In a matter of ten days, the boy not only recovered but was also able to write the examination successfully. Sri Raghava Iyengar has told me that the boy met him frequently thereafter.

Once, my sister-in-law, Rajalakshmi, was having difficulty in swallowing food on account of an ulcer. Lethargy as also other problems were present. Doctors advocated surgery as the only cure. But the family circumstances prevailing at the time did not permit the undertaking of the operation. In the Tamil month of Adi (July-August), I took her to Sringeri. "Do not worry. I will initiate her into a Mantra and she will be alright", reassured Acharyal. On our return, her complications disappeared sans surgery.

My friend, Sri Anantharamakrishnan of the Income-tax Department, narrated to me the following incident. His brother, Sri Anantharaman, an auditor of Bangalore, had, in 1972-73, seen a boy with a major speech defect being taken for Darshanam at Bangalore. On emerging, the boy said, "Appa, Amma", and was able to speak.

When His Holiness was scheduled to camp at Madurai in 1981, I was the Secretary of the committee. Making arrangements consumed most of my time and I was very busy night and day. My mother was sick and doctors examined her. The diagnosis stunned me beyond measure for I was told that she had cancer in her spine. What a fix I was in! Here was my mother laid up with a deadly disease and here I was in the midst of the preparations for Acharyal's visit. I proceeded to Tirunelveli and informed the Jagadguru of my predicament. Acharyal said, "This is not cancer at all. You can again check up. There is no need to worry". The soothing words pacified my anguished heart. I returned to Madurai and requested the doctor to re-examine my mother. Much to his surprise and to my joy, no trace of cancer was located. I was able to set myself, heart and soul, to my duties as Secretary of the committee.

A friend of mine, Sri Rajaram, who belongs to Saurashtra community, deals in scents. He was once proceeding to Sringeri with his family in a 'Matador' van. The vehicle's spare tyre was held in position by a clamp attached to the bottom portion of the vehicle. The clamp got detached and the tyre was about to fall. The driver said that unless some wires were available no temporary arrangement could be made to hold the tyre in position. Otherwise, the wheel would have to be accommodated within the vehicle. Paucity of space made this an unpleasant possibility. Sri Rajaram prayed to Acharyal that he be spared the ordeal of having to share available space with the tyre. A few people, clad in khaki, came that way. Each one of them held a coil of wire. The moment they came near the van they signalled for the vehicle to stop. Unsolicited, they said, "If you wish to use these coils you can have them". It was found that the coiled wires were sufficient to tie the tyre into position. Thus a comfortable journey was possible.

Our Mahasannidhanam blesses us through dreams also. I am also one of the Sishyas who were blessed by Him.

On one such occasion Sri Mahasannidhanam appeared in my dream and wanted me to worship Goddess Thillai Kali of Chidambaram by adorning Her with a white saree after performing Abhisheka. Immediately, I submitted to His Holiness that I had gone to Chidambaram two or three times and had seen Goddess Kali wearing only a fully red saree. His Holiness replied, "If it is so, then you can do the Seva to your Madurai deity, Goddess Meenakshi".

The next day I had Goddess Meenakshi suitably adorned. On the third day, to my surprise, my family friend and Income Tax Officer by name Sri Anantha Krishnan invited me to Chidambaram stating that he was going to do Abhisheka and Aradhana to Thillai Kali and offer Her a white sari. I was stunned and told him that I have never seen Her in a white saree. He replied that only white cloth of eighteen yards long was used for Her. Then it was made red by spreading five kilos of red Kumkumam (turmeric powder).

I came to Sringeri and submitted to His Holiness the details of my dream. Immediately His Holiness said, "It is good for you". I did accordingly and my problems were considerably lessened in a particular matter about which I was much worried. What a miracle! In Madurai, there is a Pandit — Sri Subrahmanya Ganapatigal (popularly known as Rig Veda Ganapatigai, since he is an authority on Rig Veda in Madurai), who is also an astrologer. His son Sri Ayyappa is a B.A., B.T. and is employed in Lakshmi Higher Secondary School. One night he was bitten by a poisonous snake. Being young, he traced the snake and killed it. The poison, however, made him giddy and he was taken to Madurai General Hospital for treatment. The doctors in the emergency ward left all hopes because of the late admission of the patient. They stated that only a miracle could save him. This matter was reported to the old father who was aged about 75. He immediately said, "My son's past Karma is working. Let fate take its own course".

At any rate he felt that his ward ought not to be brought home for fear of death. At that time, by God's grace his attention was diverted to a place where he had kept Acharyal's Mantrakshata and Ambal's Kumkumam. Immediately he gave the Prasada to his relations, and said, "Acharyal's grace is there on me. Let this Prasada save him" The relatives took the Prasada and gave it to the patient. To the surprise of the doctors in the emergency ward, the poison's effect was nullified and the sick one recovered completely.

How even cobras submit themselves to the kind order of Sri Mahasannidhanam was made known to me by Sri Srikantiah, Manager of the Thirumalai Shankara Math.

Once, at Narasimhavanam, Sri Srikantiah and Malnad Venkatesan were ploughing the Math lands, employing a tractor. At one place, a number of cobras suddenly came out hissing at them. Being afraid, they ran away to Sri Mahasannidhanam. He encouraged them, gave them Mantrakshata and asked them to continue the work. They did so. The next day, Sri Mahasannidhanam came to the spot and made a comment, "There are no snakes here. Where are they?". Sri Srikantiah pointed out to a place and touched it with a spade. Immediately numerous cobras came out and began playing before Acharyal. Strangely, He told the snakes to move out-"These people are afraid of all of you. It is better if you leave" To the surprise of the spectators, all the snakes left.

Such incidents have amply demonstrated that the thought of Acharyal is quite sufficient to guarantee freedom from any problem.

SRI RAJAGOPALAN

(Sri Rajagopalan of Madurai herein narrates how he was rescued by Acharyal's grace from the tortures inflicted on him by sorcery.)

Many people in Madurai know of the problems I experienced in my house from the Adi Amavasya of 1974. People envying my achievements wanted to trouble me and therefore resorted to black magic, etc. I felt greatly depressed by the ensuing effects and was almost a mental wreck. To get relief I left no form of magic untried. Though an ardent Vaishnavite, I invited people irrespective of their religions and communities to help me. Almost 125 people, including Muslims, Christians, Ezhavas, Potis and Nayars, tried to solve my problems but in vain. On the contrary, I experienced greater distress.

At this period of time, I was employed at T.V.S. Southern Roadways and was also the Secretary of the Madurai Brahmins Youth Association. On the New Moon day of Adi 1974, I found the keys of my 'Godrej' locker missing. I dismissed it as carelessness on the part of the members of the household and chided them. Since the keys were not found even after two days, I broke the locker open and changed the keys.

The next day, when I returned from the Brahmins Youth Association, I found my brother waiting at the door telling me that the front door's lock and key were missing. He asked me if I was doing the right thing in neglecting the house and indulging in Community Service. I then got a lock and key set from his house and used it for my front door. Even at this juncture, I did not think that anything was amiss and presumed that carelessness was reaching a new peak.

The next morning, I woke up to find my wrist-watch and wallet missing. It was only then I realised that the happenings were not petty thefts or acts of carelessness. I approached a neighbour of mine who was a Devi Upasaka and informed her of the events in my house. She said that they were a result of black magic used against me and assured me that she would try to overcome the same. However hard she tried, she could not stop these shocking incredulities. They were on the increase.

The next day, the doors of my Puja room were opening by themselves. After some time, my brother decided to take the idols in my house to his residence and entered the Puja room. To his dismay. he found the Saligramams missing. Further, the pictures adorning the walls of the room were found to be deranged. Also, the pages of Srimad Valmiki Ramayanam, Desikar Stotra Mala etc., were torn, as if by a blade.

The garments in the locker also suffered the same fate. Dresses worn by my children tore by themselves. Seeing all this, I felt great regret. Accepting my brother's invitation, I shifted my family to his place. But, even there, there was no break in these events and my brother and mother were put to a terrible ordeal.

When a Christian Priest was trying to exorcise the house, he lost the emblem of the holy cross which he was possessing. A magician lost his belongings. There used to be smoke and fire inside the house with no apparent reason at all. Clothes lines, with clothes on them, the cow shed and some wooden implements were all burnt. Stones dropped inside the house from nowhere. There were letters with a scrawly hand mentioning the incidents which were to follow.

When some members of the Parish came from Christian college to pray, they found kerosene oil in the water they drank. The flour used to prepare dosais was found to be mixed with chikakai powder. They felt very sorry and that was all that they could do.

Piqued extremely by these happenings, we came to know, through a letter found in the house, of the person responsible for the sorcery. Even then, we were at a loss as to who would ease the situation and relieve us of my sorrows. The concern where I was employed, T.V.S., helped me to a great extent.

When these events were taking place, many of the top police officials, members of the Judiciary and other VIPs visited our place and tried their best to comfort us and offer some solution. Some also took our children to their houses and gave some temporary relief.

Our despair finally vanished only when we met His Holiness Sri Mahasannidhanam, the Jagadguru of Sringeri. The rare opportunity to behold Him was provided to us by Advocate Sri Srinivasaraghavan and Sri A.K. Padmanabha Iyer. These two people, being my close friends, told His Holiness my tale of woe. The very next day, (10.2.1975) my brother and I had His Darshanam at the Brahmana Kalyana Mahal and related the happenings. He heard us with great patience and blessed us with great compassion. He asked us to come to Tirunelveli during the following week. When we returned with the joy of having had Darshanam we found a letter saying, "I will not trouble you again. Henceforth, I shall be your slave". All of us were relieved as we realised the fruit of worshipping His Holiness. Even now I realise that I cannot feel a greater peace of mind than what I had at that instant. On 14.2.1975, we met Acharyal at Tirunelveli and had Mantropadesa from Him. From that day, we experienced no troubles at all, and were completely at peace. If today, we are still living in the same house and prospering, it is only because of His grace and compassion. Just as a blind person receives a gift of sight, we received the gift of peace and prosperity which were completely absent in our lives before we met Acharyal.

After these events, we have been to Sringeri many a time and have been the recipients of His unbounded grace. In future too, we believe that His grace will sustain the prosperity which He bestowed.

—

SRI S. MURALI

(Having completed a brilliant academic career, Sri S. Murali is currently employed at the computer centre in Anna University. He has been intensely engaged in Acharyal's service. His article speaks, by itself, for his great devotion.)

It was in the year 1977 that I became sceptical about the existence of God, the necessity of religion and other vital matters pertaining to our philosophy. Before, as I was brought up in an orthodox family, I was a typical religious minded person. The time when my faith in religious matters began to shake was during my third year engineering course. This was due to the searching questions put by some of my newly acquainted friends in my college. My belief in the existence of God was purely on the basis of faith and when I was confronted with many unusual questions I really began to doubt the existence of God apart from other things. But fortunately I never lost the curiosity to know more about our philosophy and I used to have long discussions, hours together, with my friends. In fact, when Acharyal visited Madras in the same year I refused to see Him even though my parents insisted. It was an act of providence that I came to know about the greatness of Acharyal. This was through one of my friends, senior to me in college, whom my friends and myself approached to clarify our doubts. We used to argue with him a lot and his answers to our queries were logical to the core. By and by we were convinced. Then I had a intense desire to have the Darshan of Acharyal.

In the year 1978, I went to Sringeri to fulfil my longing. The trip was a memorable one. The things which always strike me when I behold Acharyal are His compassion and simplicity. Till now in whatever state my mind is, I feel elated and peaceful in the presence of Acharyal. After my first visit I was so much enthralled that whenever possible I went for His Darshanam. His greatness and compassion are unlimited but what my mind could grasp is only infinitesimal. But even that is sufficient to convince me that having devotion to Acharyal is the only worthwhile thing in the world. Let me cite here a few of my experiences.

I was in possession of a photo of Acharyal for which I used to do Puja sometimes. On a particular day when I was worshipping, I felt happier and more peaceful compared to other days. When I took the photo next day for performing the Puja I noticed, to my great surprise, a small amount of Vibhuti near His holy feet.

Once at Sringeri when Acharyal expounded a Vedantic text He asked my friends and myself to come to the classes, even though we were not aware of even elementary Sanskrit. Later Acharyal remarked, "Vedantic Sravana is very good. That is why I asked you to come".

My conception of Acharyal is something more than a God. I cannot conceive of Gods like Shiva, Krishna etc., having separate identities apart from Acharyal. Only if I think that Acharyal has taken these forms, worship of these Gods is possible for me. In my house there is a Banalingam for which normally my father does the Puja. For some period I was doing it, and one day during the Puja I thought, "The Lingam has uniform colour throughout. If it has some lines on its surface in the shape of a face it will be ideal". After a few days, hazy white wavy lines began to form on the Lingam and soon they became very clear. The pulchritude of the Lingam was largely enhanced by the fresh lines. I was, to say the least, overwhelmed with joy. To whom could I attribute all these but to my Acharyal.

My sincere prayer to Acharyal is always this: "Let Vasanas and desires take me anywhere. But devotion to You is what I want to have always, not alone in this birth but ever".

SRI R.M. UMESH

It was in 1971 that I had the Darshanam of Acharyal which transformed my psyche My agreeing to accompany my maternal grandmother to Navasuja; where Acharyal was camping in Madras was, in itself, the mysterious working of His grace. To clarify,I shall briefly dwell on my mental make up of that period. The recollections are hazy not merely because of the passage of years but because of the extent of the metamorphosis that took place.

I was, and to a lesser extent am, rather headstrong. Being the sole offspring of my progenitors, and having all my wishes readily consummated, I was neither submissive nor obedient I did perform Sandhyavandanam and a Puja of sorts to a Shivalingam purchased near Kapaleeswara temple, but was disinterested in orthodoxy. In particular, I spurned the very concept of a Guru being essential. "Why should a Guru, a mere mortal, intervene between man and God? Surely, a devotee can approach Ishwara without a mediator's recommendation", I thought. My opinion of the Sringeri Math, of which I knew precious little, was rather uncomplimentary and I held that its pontiff unjustifiably revelled in pomp and splendour. I remember turning down a proposal to go to Sringeri to have Darshanam of Acharyal, my Kula Guru. Since my parents were neither spiritually inclined nor orthodox there was no trace of duress.

The proclivity to examine a phenomenon before believing it prevailed. That led me to slip out of my house (then in Nungambakkam) at midnight on some Amavasyas. Jumping over the wall, I spent time in the burial ground opposite to the Loyola College compound. My aim was to find out if ghost did haunt such places. I did not encounter any. Rather than dismiss the existence of spirits in their entirety, I "scientifically" concluded, "It seems improbable that such entities are actualities. However, after contemplating suitable modalities I shall scrutinise other burial and cremation grounds too". Hypnotism and ventriloquism interested me and I acquired a mild degree of proficiency in their practice. Philosophical queries often aroused my curiosity. My academic inclinations were towards Engineering and I had some desires to go to the United States to study upto my Doctorate.

The desire to remain single throughout my life was, perhaps unnaturally for that age, overwhelming. Such was my mental state when I went to see Acharyal. I was ushered to His presence in the room upstairs where He was giving audience. His accessibility, winning smile, and, above all, simplicity struck a death-blow to my preconceived notions of His pomposity. He directed me to sit by His side. "What do you wish?", He softly queried. "Will Acharyal give me Mantropadesha?", I asked, much to my own surprise. "Come tomorrow morning", said Acharyal graciously, "I will initiate you." I had not expected myself to make the request I did and much less did I anticipate the reply He gave. I then posed a doubt, regarding Maya, to Acharyal who gave a very lucid exposition. (This dialogue has been included in another section of this book.) I returned home and found myself in high spirits throughout the day.

The next morning I went to Navasuja at around 8.30 a.m. As soon as Acharyal had finished His Anushtanam I was asked to go in. He was seated on a deer skin with a bewitching smile adorning His face which radiated Tejas and serenity. He motioned me to take my seat close to Him. He directed me to perform Achamanam, etc., and then remarked, "Now repeat after me" I was in a daze throughout the initiation process and felt His grace possessing me. I then left for home.

I found myself continuously repeating the Shiva Mantra which He had initiated me into. The mental chanting was spontaneous and linked with the outgoing breath. No thoughts crossed the mind which was extremely joyful. As the day wore on, an intense desire to meditate gripped me. I declined to go for the night Chandramouleeswara Puja and locked myself up in the Puja room in my residence. Assuming a meditative posture I gently closed my eyelids. The Mantra rumbled on but slowly faded away. The mind became increasingly calm and in a few moments I lost all awareness of the body and surroundings. I felt as if I was expanding. I beheld a vast expanse of intensely bright illumination and had the experience of merging into it. Waves of bliss submerged me and the sense of time was lost. In what seemed a trice I regained light consciousness of the body. Actually an hour had elapsed.

Thereafter, this experience used to repeat everytime I sat for meditation. The Mantra, for its part, was spontaneously chanted throughout the day and even as on date the position remains unchanged. The joy of the period of concentration was so great that coming out of that state to engage in other activities was positively repugnant. The desire for worldly enjoyments and attainments started waning and a burning longing for Sanyasa took its place. I had joined the engineering course but my interest in studies was rather superficial because love of meditation had almost become an obsession. I knew beyond doubt that Acharyal had graced me in abundance and that my excursions to ecstasy were exclusively due to Him.

I had read of Shiva having given Darshanam to those who pined for Him. I believed, heart and soul, that such narrations were no mere fantasies. While the possibility of delusion was fully recognised by me, I was convinced that if, with eyes open also, one were to behold a divine form, feel the impact of the vision and have one's doubts and queries set at rest then even if the perception were a mental projection it was doubtlessly initiated by divine grace. For my part, I began to firmly feel that without the realization of God, life is meaningless. Consequently I began to repeatedly pray for a vision of the Divine. Not wanting to publicise my feelings, my entreaties reached their crescendo only in the nights when I lay in my room with the door bolted to prevent any distracting intrusions. Sound sleep gave away to sleeplessness and often the pillow used to be quite wet with tears which flowed copiously till the tear glands were, as it were, drained out. This state of affairs continued for a few months. During the day I put up a semblance of normalcy but the heart burnt within.

Meditation and thought of Acharyal alone provided solace One day I could no longer bear the grief of non-perception of Ishwara. I made up my mind to terminate my life if Shiva did not choose to manifest by that night. I went to the Shiva temple nearby and vowed, "O Shiva! Long have I craved for You but You have not responded. Life without You holds no meaning for me. Bestow Your grace on me today itself, if You will. Else I shall cast off this worthless body by jumping from the roof of my house." I returned home around 6 p.m. My parents were not in town. I went to the Puja room, prostrated and then sat in meditation. That day's concentration was particularly wonderful. When I regained awareness of my body it was around 9.30 p.m. The Lord had not come. I started to rise to go up to the terrace. Suddenly I beheld a bright disc of light. I was perfectly aware of the room and its contents and so was neither meditating nor dreaming. The disc expanded and a sweet sound of Om was heard to the accompaniment of the tinkling of a bell. From the light, the glorious form of Shiva seemed to condense, seated on a Bull. To say that I was enthralled and transfixed would be an understatement. "What do you wish?", was the melodious voice I heard. The Lord had graced me. What more could I want? "Nothing", I replied. Beaming a captivating smile Shiva, the perfect one, vanished. What was all this but the effect of Acharyal's blessing conferred on the day of initiation itself!

I went to Sringeri for the first time in 1972. Acharyal had completed His tour. When my maternal uncle said that he was proceeding to Sringeri by car and asked me to come with him, I was caught in a mild dilemma. The reasons were three in number. I had a few doubts which none of the religious personalities whom I had met could satisfactorily clear. During meditation, my mind was getting identified with an expanse of effulgence. How was I to proceed further? This was one of the issues I wanted to clear with Acharyal. I had made up my mind to take up Sanyasa. To overcome any possible obstacles I had selected October 1972, when I would be completing 18 years of age, to snap off all worldly ties. I planned to see Acharyal then, get His blessings and clarifications and leave for the Himalayas.Thus I would have preferred to delay my visit to Sringeri by a few months and to go without anybody accompanying me. Thirdly, I was convinced beyond any doubt that Acharyal was indeed the greatest. So I felt that to make myself slightly worthy of the grace He had conferred upon me, I should purify myself prior to presenting myself before Him. After little cogitation, I decided that the best course for me would be to straight away go to Acharyal.

At Sringeri, on my seeing Acharyal, I expressed my desire to talk to Him in private. He readily consented and asked me to come that evening at around 4 p.m. When I entered the room, I found Acharyal seated. He asked for the doors to be closed and so there I was in the most glorious presence of my Guru. Acharyal asked me to sit down and, after prostrating before Him, I respectfully sat a few feet away from Him. He gestured to me to keep coming closer till finally I was only a couple of inches away from Him. Before I posed any questions, He began to speak and in the course of His statements cleared most of what I had wanted to ask. He told me, "I know that you want to take up Sanyasa. However, it is better that for the time being you continue your studies". He assured me that I need have no fear of getting enmeshed in the snares of worldly life. With His complete blessings and His suggestions I solemnly resolved to be a Naishtika Brahmachari (celibate for life).

Apparently innocently, Acharyal asked me to describe my meditation to Him. He heard me with great patience. "At the time of initiation, by the will of Ishwara, Shakthi Pata (transfer of spiritual power) had occurred", He said. "You will not have obstacles to your spiritual progress", He continued.

My heart was filled with joy on hearing these soothing words. Before I replied, He remarked, "Till now you have been doing Saguna Dhyanam (meditation on God with qualities). Now I will teach you Nirguna Dhyanam (fixation on the attributeless). When you sit for meditation, dissociate yourself with the body and the senses. Only the rise and fall of thoughts will be perceived.Segregate yourself from all mentation Then realise yourself to be of the nature of perfect bliss. I will show you how to do so".Saying so, He closed His eyes. His body became motionless and His eyes were half closed. He was quite unaware of His surroundings and radiated peace. About five minutes later, Acharyal opened His eyes and said, "Go and try Nirguna Dhyanam". "I intellectually comprehend what Acharyal says", I said, "but am at a loss to understand how exactly to proceed". "Try it", Acharyal similingly replied, "Everything will become clear to you".

I prostrated before my Guru and went to Adhishtanam housing the Samadhis of our Paramacharyal and Parameshti Acharyal. I selected a pillar on the South of Parameshti Acharyal's Samadhi and sat down for Dhvanam. Almost instantaneously, I lost awareness of surroundings and the body. Only the rise and fall of thoughts were recognisable. Slowly, the frequency of the thoughts became less and soon the mind was totally tranquil. I felt as though I was merging into pure Akasha and becoming unlimited in size. There was an extraordinary experience of bliss. Suddenly there was a transition and even conception of Akasha vanished. All distinctions disappeared without a trace. I am at a total loss for words to describe that state. All I can say is that I was lost in an ocean of unalloyed indescribable bliss. When I began to regain my external consciousness and opened my eyes I could perceive nothing apart from me. Everything seemed to be in me like bubbles on the surface of the ocean. This unique experience lasted awhile before gradually fading away.

When giving me Mantrakshata prior to my departure, Acharyal said, "Come often to Sringeri". Accordingly I decided to spend all my vacations there. By His grace I had the occasion to spend over 2 months in a year in His presence. On the fourth day of my arrival, in May 1973, when I went to receive Theertham, Acharyal asked me to come nearer. I was astounded by what I saw in His eyes. It seemed as if everything was within them and that He was embodiment of indescribable power. In a few moments He appeared His normal self. Unexpectedly He got up and started walking towards the bridge leading to the Northern banks of the Tunga. He beckoned to me to follow and soon we reached the Ashwattha tree near the Secretary's office in Narasimhavanam. There, with a tone of finality He remarked, "This shall be your last birth"

I have had numerous occasions for discussions with Acharyal who regularly asked me to accompany Him on His evening strolls. He very often spoke to me about meditation. He never tired of stressing the importance of dispassion and Brahmacharyam. With telling analogies He drove home to me that married life is a big bondage. Equally forcefully He explained that the world is a mere appearance like a dream and that the Atma alone is real.

By His grace the experience that I had at Sringeri accrued regularly. It was only later that Acharyal told me that it was Nirvikalpa Samadhi. For about an hour after descending from that state nothing appeared to have existence apart from me but thereafter the realisation began to fade away.

By May 1973 numerous powers began to manifest. The first strange experience I had in this connection, however, took place in 1971 itself not long after I had my initiation. My P.U.C. Practical examination in Physics was due the next day. I was going through my record note book when unexpectedly I saw a scene in front of me. I beheld myself seated in a particular portion of the lecture hall in the physics department. My classmates were seated in some other positions. We were addressed and asked to walk up one by one, pick a paper deciding our experiments and proceed to the physics laboratory. When my turn came I too did so. I noted the experiment that I was to do and informed the staff member stationed at the entrance of the physics lab. He directed me to a table where the apparatus had been kept. At this point, the vision vanished. I was not sure whether I had been day dreaming but was struck by the sense of reality. I carefully prepared for the experiment I had visualised and even noted the observation values. The next day I was in for a pleasant surprise for all I had seen in the vision, without exception, came to pass. In fact, my doing the experiment was merely an act of formality for I knew the exact observation values a priori.

A somewhat similar experience manifested when I was doing my second year of the engineering course. This time also it pertained to the physics laboratory. I had to do the same spectrometer experiment involving computation of the refractive index that I had visualized the day before the examination. Apart from the experiment being easy the a priori intimation made the process a cakewalk. My conscience, however, warned me, "It is not fair to utilise the advantage gained from the vision,for is it not tantamount to indirect malpractice?" Immediately, knowingly I entered some wrong values so that the result may be somewhat inaccurate. Consequently the marks that I obtained in that examination were the lowest of those that I got in the entire engineering laboratory courses. Of course, I did not divulge to my friends what had transpired. In fact, I also pretended to wonder why the marks had been low.

In January 1972 I noticed the specific manifestations of Siddhis. One day I was seated in my room when the thought occurred to me, "What will happen if I make a resolve to see beyond the wall and so concentrate accordingly?" Hardly had I focussed my mind than the wall seemed to become totally transparent and I was able to see the road outside my house. Amongst the pedestrians I beheld Sri Kachapeswara Sharma, who had taught me Sandhyavandhanam and Puja, walking in the direction of my residence. He was wearing his upper garment in a fashion different from the way he normally did. I followed his entry to the compound till he put his hand on the bell. At that very instant the clairvoyance came to an end and I heard the bell ring. I rushed downstairs and opened the door. Who else was there but Sri Sharma himself wearing the upper garment exactly as I had seen earlier.

A few days later I happened to read a book in which the power of mind over matter was mentioned. My curiosity being aroused, I latched the door of my room and sat down in a sofa about three metres from it. I gazed intently at the latch and strongly willed that the door should open. I felt my eyes becoming half closed and nothing appeared before them except the latch. There was a slight tingling sensation on my forehead. Then I beheld the latch slowly moving and the door opened. There was no one else in the room who could have opened the door when I was concentrating.

Wanting to test the power further, I concentrated on a book lying on the table, strongly willing that it should move towards me. The moment the mind exclusively locked on to the book, the book gradually started approaching me. Convinced of the existence of the psychokinesis I was disinterested in making any further experiments.

Not having given much thought to these super normal phenomena I did not mention them to Acharyal during my first visit to Sringeri. After my return I noticed the appearance of few more Siddhis. On an occasion I placed my right hand, palm down, on a book placed on a table. I closed my eyes and made the book the object of my absorption. A strange sensation ensued and I felt as if the entire contents of the book had been committed to memory. I visualised a particular page and mentally read out its contents. I was in for astonishment when I found that the corresponding page of the book was identical. The memory faded away after about a day.

Unwittingly, I stumbled upon the process of mind-reading. I learnt that if I resolved to read the mind of another, then closed my eyes and made my mind blank, a vast expanse would be seen. In it images, initially blurred, but subsequently vivid were formed and sounds were also heard. These, I confirmed, corresponded to what the concerned person was thinking of at that time. In like manner, I was able to know the impressions of past experiences and tendencies of others by suitable concentration.

Clairaudience too made its appearance. I found that if I wished to hear a distant conversation I could resort to the following procedure. First resolve suitably. Second close the ears and lightly concentrate on the internal sound in the right ear. When the mind becomes adequately tranquil it is focussed on the said conversation. Immediately the dialogue is distinctly heard.

I had never been enamoured by these powers nor was I interested in using them. One reason was the profound impact of the meditation that I was getting due to Acharyal's grace. Around this time I happened to read that such powers are positive obstacles to spiritual progress. That gave me some degree of concern and I decided to seek a remedy from Acharyal. When I went to Sringeri in 1973 I spoke of the powers that had manifested and beseeched Him to get rid of them as I did not wish to be tempted to use them.

Acharyal: It is Ishwara's will that He use your body for some of His purposes. That is why these powers are manifesting.

I : But I fear them.

Acharyal : Very well. They shall stop making their appearance. However, when there is suitable occasion they shall spontaneously crop up.

Accordingly the super normal abilities vanished. The power of reading the mind and tendencies, however, have occasionally manifested in the past preceded by a vision of Acharyal telling me the purpose. I am glad that Acharyal in His compassion readily eliminated these distracting factors.

During the very visit when Acharyal withdrew these supernatural abilities He gave me a highly cherished blessing. I was to depart from Sringeri for Madras as the Engineering College was about to open. I was feeling absolutely miserable at having to leave Acharyal's physical presence and could not hide this sentiment from Him.

Acharyal : Am I this body alone that I am not with you in Madras?

I : I do understand but still am feeling awful. How I wish I never had to go. Yet, Acharyal has ordered me to complete my studies properly and so I must leave. I really long to see and talk to Acharyal wherever I am just as I am able to do so now.

Acharyal was silent for a while and then said, "Very well. It shall be as you wish. I shall appear before you just as you see me now. Whatever you wish to ask Me at that time you can do so and I shall reply to you just as I am doing now. So you can go to Madras without feeling the pangs of separation. I shall be with you."

I was overwhelmed with joy and was in no position to reply. During my first visit to Sringeri itself Acharyal, of His own accord, had given me a beautiful Banalingam to worship. This time He bestowed on me the sacred Padukas. By the force of Acharyal's blessing whenever I strongly desire so I am able to behold Him, particularly when I am paying my homages to the Padukas. I feel His presence to the same extent as when He is physically present. I know for a fact that these perceptions are not visual hallucinations. Numerous are the incidents which go to confirm the validity of the experiences but I shall confine myself by citing but a few.

1. I mentally asked Acharyal some questions regarding the sufferings in the world. He appeared before me and said, "People suffer on account of their Karma. Look at that train!" Immediately I beheld a train travelling somewhat fast. "This train is going to meet with an accident", Acharyal continued, "Many people are going to die. Watch." I saw the complete accident scene. Acharyal mentioned the place where the mishap occurred. But as my memory fails me I am not in a position to furnish the exact details here. The next day I read in the papers of an accident which had taken place at the indicated spot. A photograph which I saw tallied completely with what I had been shown earlier.

2. Acharyal was scheduled to initiate His successor designate on November 11, 1974. I was studying in my fourth year and had an honours elective examination on that day. I decided to skip the examination and go over to Sringeri. I felt that missing that examination would not make much difference as it would only mean that, later, in place of getting B.E. (Hons) degree, I would get a B.E.degree - a mere reduction of a few alphabets in what I considered a worthless two letter qualification for which one wastes five years. I went to the Puja room, prostrated before Acharyal's Padukas and sought His permission to proceed to Sringeri. Appearing before me, Acharyal said, "No. Finish the examination and then come. Leave immediately thereafter and not before ". Accordingly I modified my programme and left on 11th afternoon. At Sringeri, even before I said anything, Acharyal remarked, " I had told you that day not to come earlier because I did not want you to miss your examination. A task taken on should be accomplished properly regardless of whether one considers it important or otherwise."

3. In 1978 when I was prostrating before Acharyal's Padukas I got His vision. Regarding a boy He said, "He will come today ". "Will he resolve to enter spiritual life?" I queried. "After he talks with you he will do so", was the reply. Acharyal's form then disappeared. At that juncture a thought arose whether my wish that my friend should visit me had triggered the above conversation or Acharyal had really meant what I heard Him say. Accordingly I decided that some unnatural phenomenon should serve to confirm the vision, if it indeed was not induced by my own longings. There were two oil lamps in that room. I decided to try to light them. I felt that if the first two matchsticks employed by me failed in the required task and that the lamps be lit with the aid of the third stick, then the vision would be beyond dispute. I took up the match box and tried my hand at lighting the lamps. The first two matchsticks failed to accomplish the task while the third one was able to light the pair of oil lamps. I was tempted to try another test. I thought,"If I hold up these lamps near a fan rotating at full speed then also the flames should not flicker". I turned on the fan and made it run at its maximum speed. Then I lifted one of the lamps and brought them near the fan blades where the breeze was intense. The flames flickered not and it appeared as if the place was free from breeze. These incidents confirmed to me that what I had seen was not merely the effect of my wishes but what was actually destined by divinity to transpire.

The same afternoon the concerned boy came to my place but was accompanied by two of his friends. His friends had come to "save" him from me as they thought that I might " hypnotise "him. They had decided that if I were to ask him to do Dhyanam with me or were to seek to speak to him alone they would immediately take him back. But I do not know what happened, for when I asked the boy whether he would come for Dhyanam the two friends took leave of him and left. That boy, who too was apparently in a mood to oppose me, readily agreed to sit for meditation and did not raise even a murmur of protest. It is clear that the words uttered by Acharyal will always come to pass regardless of whether they are uttered in person or in visions.

His grace has not been confined to my waking state alone. In the later half of 1973 I had a series of dreams in which Acharyal expounded the sixth chapter of Bhagavadgita along with Bhagavadpadal's commentary. He explained some verses one night and on the next night continued from where He had left. This went on till the end of the chapter was reached. At that time I had not come across Bhagavadpadal's commentary on Gita at all. Later, when I procured a copy of the same I found that it contained what Acharyal had taught. I still clearly remember what He had expounded to me then.

I have found that sometimes, when I narrate the vision experiences to Him, He proceeds as if He is fully familiar with what happened. On some other occasions He seems to listen to the narration with surprise. Hence I asked Him, "Sometimes Acharyal appears to be fully familiar with what I am going to say while at other times Acharyal listens as if quite unfamiliar with what has transpired. What is the reason?" Acharyal, in His natural humility replied, "Whatever visions you are getting are due to Ishwara's grace. When I seek to know a matter, it comes to mind. But sometimes I make no such effort and hence ask you to narrate what has happened. In general, I do not put forth any specific effort to ascertain the events. When Ishwara wills, He reveals the matter to Me."

In May 1974, Acharyal's grace led me to a major milestone in my spiritual discipline. Roughly ten days prior to my departure from Sringeri, Acharyal called me to accompany Him for a walk up the Kalabhairava hill. The attendant had gone in front and so there was no one with Acharyal at that time except myself. Addressing Acharyal I said, "By Acharyal's blessings I am repeatedly able to get the meditative state which Acharyal has subsequently identified as Nirvikalpa Samadhi. When I come down from that state, as I have told Acharyal earlier, I feel as if there is nothing apart from me. This experience, however, is not steady. It fades away after a while and I would like Acharyal's benediction for that state to become steady." Acharyal looked upon me with compassionate eyes and then said, "After you complete your engineering studies that state shall become steady".

So unlimited is His mercy that just a few days after making this statement, He told me of His own accord, "Your surrender to Me has generated satisfaction. I bless you that that state become steady from now on." Can the blessings of the omnipotent One ever be in vain? What He said came to pass and the steadiness of the experience continues to this day. I regard that moment as the culmination of a blessing He had given years ago when I had prayed to Him for pure devotion. He had said, "Abidance in the Self is indeed considered the highest devotion. May you have that true devotion." Acharyal can indeed fathom the inner most recesses of His disciple's heart and does fulfil whatever aspirations the devotees may have. I have seen numerous instances in my own life confirming this. For example, years ago, I had a strong desire to behold Acharyal in Nirvikalpa Samadhi. I did not express my feelings to Him but what indeed can be hidden from the omniscient One? He asked me to accompany Him to the Kalabhairava temple and there He sat down for meditating. He asked me to sit close to Him and then remarked "We will meditate". I saw His eyes close partially. Slowly the heaving of His chest became slower and slower and soon no trace of breathing was discoverable by me though I was very close to Him. He seemed to radiate peace. Suddenly I felt a force dragging me into meditation. I too closed my eyes and my mind soared to the heights of concentration. I thought that a moment had elapsed before I was able to regain awareness of the body. I opened my eyes and observed Acharyal. Slowly His breathing commenced and in a few moments He opened His eyes. Turning to the Kalabhairava idol He shouted out the Lord's name and after prostrating, came out of the temple. Actually over half-an hour had elapsed. On coming out of the temple He said, "Nirvikalpa Samadhi is very nice. Is it not?" Thus He had fulfilled my desire to behold Him in that sublime state even prior to my expressing my desire. Of course, thereafter, I have been privileged to see Him on numerous occasions in that acme of meditation, Nirvikalpa Samadhi and to even photograph and film Him in Samadhi .

Acharyal has the power to bestow Samadhi at will. He need not even be physically present and can use anyone or any object as an instrument. I can say this with absolute certainty because there has been more than one occasion when I have been used by Him to confer grace. Once I mentally requested Acharyal to give Samadhi to a certain person. Acharyal appeared in a vision and agreed.

I called the concerned person and we sat facing each other. I sought to know from Acharyal, "What should be done?" Acharyal's form appeared before my eyes to my right, as if He was floating in air. "Place your left thumb on the space between his eyebrows, keeping the other four fingers on the head" instructed Acharyal. "Position your right hand palm lightly on the centre of his chest" He continued. I did so Next Acharyal said, "Now concentrate and resolve strongly that he should get Samadhi." I acted accordingly and found that the person seated in front of me began to close his eyes and slowly his breathing rate decreased. For my part I noticed a sort of vibrating sensation in my right hand and also feeling of a great Shakti flowing through it into his chest. The palm became increasingly warm but Acharyal's voice urged, "More, more". Soon a time came when the palm almost became scorched. Acharyal's instructions came through clearly,"Concentrate even more and then you yourself go off into Samadhi". I obeyed.

After some time my mind came down from the meditative state and when I opened my eyes, a surprise awaited me. The concerned person had his eyes half closed. There was no noticeable breathing and when I placed my hands on his chest I was not able to sense anything. He was about nine inches completely off the ground, seemed oblivious of his surroundings and was an epitome of tranquility. I awaited instructions. I was asked to place my palm on his thighs and press down. When I did so his body gradually came into contact with the Asanam spread on the ground. Acharyal then said, "He is now in Nirvikalpa Samadhi". This passed on. Finally Acharyal decided to bring him out of Samadhi. He told me that He would be erasing the memory of the Samadhi state because the time was not yet ripe for this state which He had granted in response to my wish. He said further, "He will feel as if only a few minutes have elapsed and that he never went into any firm concentration at all, for he continuously heard other sounds".

Accordingly, as per Acharyal's instructions,I repositioned my hands and gradually observed the boy. He opened his eyes and I asked him what had happened. Exactly as predicted by Acharyal, he said that he felt that only a few minutes had elapsed. Actually a long period had passed. He further said that he had been unable to meditate as he was hearing a lot of sounds. Thus Acharyal is not only able to bestow the highest state but also to withhold its memory.

On another occasion, at my request Acharyal appeared in a vision and agreed to sanction Savikalpa Samadhi to another person. Here the query may arise, "Is it true that the concerned person got Savikalpa Samadhi?" After the experience the concerned person started getting very good meditation though earlier it had not been possible. Mental attitudes were suitably changed. These serve as the proofs.

Of course, in 1980 I resolved that I would no more request Acharyal for conferring such experiences. The reasons were two fold. First Acharyal knows what is best and who am I to recommend anybody's case? I came to know from Acharyal that some of these experiences had been conferred by Him just in response to my request. If the concerned persons were not able to sustain certain level of spirituality there would be lot of trouble. The reason is that such Samadhi experiences uplift one a great deal spiritually. However, later on one is not able to get that state on one's own accord because the mind has not been adequately trained. Thus so long as proper spiritual discipline is being practised and holy company is kept no untoward effects are noticed and only positive results are seen. However, if room for lapses is given problems set in. The reason is that the exalted state is not attained but an internal subconscious longing for it is present. Since the highest cannot be got and, in fact, at times adequate meditative performance level is not achieved,some degree of frustration creeps in. A lot of energy and Shakti are released within and they are not tamed and so, to some extent, other instincts are aroused. As these manifest, the level of meditation drops lower and this in turn engenders the rise of desires. Frustration at not being able to attain the highest acts as the primary catalyst. This was the explanation I got subsequently from Acharyal. I have noticed that in the case of those who had been given Samadhi just because of Acharyal's consideration for my request, problems did set in after the lapse of a period of over a year.

Some years ago, when I accompanied Acharyal from Narasimhavanam to the Sharadambal temple I learnt a great deal. Acharyal prostrated before Ambal and sat down. I could clearly see His lips moving. Next He was silent and nodded His head slightly. He paused a while as if He was listening and then continued to move His lips. People who saw Him would have been left in no doubt that He was engaged in actual conversation with Ambal. After sometime I saw in the place of Sharadamba's deity, a beautiful live form of Lord Narasimha. It appeared as if the sacred Man-lion had made its actual manifestation. I was in no state of meditation as my eyes were quite open. I repositioned myself and again found the same vision. I did move myself to two or three positions but the results were the same. It was only later that I learnt that Acharyal's Ishta Devata is Lord Narasimha. Perhaps this replacement of Ambal by Lord Narasimha, as far as I was concerned, was to make known Acharyal's Ishta Devata to me.

Apart from Acharyal's gracing me with meditative experiences and peace of mind, I have also had the good fortune of being taught by Him. He is so concerned with imparting knowledge to His disciples that He even puts up with a lot of inconvenience. Recently, when Acharyal was at Bangalore in the year 1983, He taught me the Mandukya Upanishad with the Karikas of Gaudapadacharyal and Bhagavadpadal's Commentary. This He did in spite of His ill-health. I have also heard portions of the Panchadasi, Yoga Vasistha, Bhagavad Gita Bhashya, Sutra Bhashya, etc., from the holy lips of my Guru. He not only resolves doubts by eventually answering them with lips but also by dispelling them by His mere presence. Quite often I have noticed that He has clarified points which I have sought to ask Him even prior to my actually asking Him. One such experience I have already narrated as having transpired during my first visit to Sringeri.

Acharyal's compassion and concern cannot be described in words and many an experience of mine testifies to this. I have often asked Acharyal's permission to spend protracted hours in Samadhi. I had a strong desire to remain absorbed in Samadhi so long that the body would wither away. He had told me, "One must not have desire either for life or for death. One should be like a servant, merely awaiting an order".

In 1982, however, He permitted me to spend long durations in meditation and I went over to Sringeri on 4th October. At that time Acharyal was on tour and had directed me to stay at Bhairava Kripa, a house built by Him on the way to Kalabhairava temple. I was the sole occupant of the place and had all my time to myself. By Acharyal's grace, for over two months I was able to spend my time in Samadhi spending as long as 20 hours a day in that state itself. I found that the need for food became almost nil and I was taking a very meagre amount of food merely because of Acharyal's instructions. Sleep, however, could be dispensed with for days without any problem at all. I intensely felt the grace of Acharyal and also knew that all that was happening was solely due to Him and not due to my efforts. Numerous are the examples that can be given but I shall confine myself to giving only one.

One day, at the end of my meditation I turned towards Acharyal's Padukas and mentally visualized His presence. Immediately the flowers that were on the Padukas jumped up one foot into the air and dropped into my hands. On a subsequent date my very close friend, the administrator of the Sringeri Math, Sri Giridhara Sastry returned from camp and conveyed to me a news that gave great joy. On the very day when this Paduka incident occurred, Acharyal had been at Tarakeshwar. The Mahanth had requested Acharyal to perform Puja to the sacred Jyothir Lingam there and Acharyal, as also the Mahanth had sat down for worship. Instead of going through the usual Puja procedure Acharyal closed His eyes and remained thus till the completion of the Puja. Later, on being asked, Acharyal said that He had been performing Manasika Puja. The portion of Sri Giridhara Sastry's narrative that is particularly relevant is as follows.

Acharyal had visualized a vessel with thousand holes using which Abishekam was being performed by Him to the sacred Lingam. That time, according to Acharyal, He saw me, asking Him whether I could also be with Him during the Puja. He acceded and said He had noticed my presence throughout the worship. How much should be His concern that even at that time He should have chosen to grace me. It was at that juncture, that at Sringeri flowers automatically jumped off the Padukas and came to my hands.

His concern for me as described above, has transcended many a normal norm. During the 1977 All India tour, one morning I had not taken my milk or any tiffin as it was getting a bit late. Acharyal of His own accord asked me about the morning tiffin though there was no need for Him to have done so on that particular day. He immediately ordered some milk to be brought for me.

Likewise at Sringeri I was a little unwell on a particular day and was running temperature. I had not told Acharyal anything about that. That night, on account of physical discomfort I had some difficulty in sleeping. The very next morning Acharyal Himself came to the room where I was staying in Satchidananda Vilas and then said, "Last night I was feeling a lot of discomfort. Did you not sleep properly?" I was taken aback to say the least. "Take good care of your health", He advised and went back.

When Acharyal had come to Madras in 1977 and was seated upstairs in Navasuja, I climbed up by the back steps and came to the open verandah. I saw Acharyal speaking to some people and since He was facing East; he could not have seen me. I offered my prostrations from where I stood. Immediately I heard a voice saying, "Come into the shade. I am feeling the heat very much". When I looked up I realized that Acharyal had spoken. Thus He had been able to sense the heat to which my body had been subjected when lying prostrate on the hot verandah. Similar such incidents have taken place on numerous other occasions too.

Once Acharyal was scheduled to go to Sri K.S.Natarajan's house in Sringeri for Pada Puja. He asked me to accompany Him and I did so. As the Pada Puja was in progress Acharyal was speaking to the late Kasi Ganapatigal who had come from Madras. Acharyal spoke a few words to me and then I withdrew a little. Ganapatigal asked Acharyal, "Who is he?" "My disciple", Acharyal said. "Where does he live?" was the Ganapatigal's next query. Acharyal's reply is still firmly entrenched in my memory and gives me very great joy whenever I recollect it. He said, "He lives in My heart."

So great is Acharyal's compassion for me that He has given me an opportunity to serve Him in more ways than one. This has been particularly true since December 1982.

In the past one and a half years I have had the occasion of being with Him night and day with unlimited access and every moment with Him has been a lesson for me and also a new experience. Acharyal does not have to speak much to teach. His very life has been a lesson to me. His perfect self-control, universal love, deep erudition, and His perfect realization are all ideals to be emulated.

I know that whatever I am, is solely because of His grace. I cannot conceive of even a day or an hour without thinking of Him. I know for a fact that even if I were to try to do a simple task like drinking water, if I do not dedicate the same or think of Him, my mouth just fails to drink . Likewise, if I take a book and start turning the pages, absolutely nothing is registered unless I think of Him. That is the extent to which He has made an impact on my life. To me He is God and indeed greater than God. For my part all I can say is that it has been my greatest good fortune that in His infinite grace, He has chosen to make me His very own and to drown me in an ocean of bliss. My eyes have beheld His bewitching form, my ears have heard His divine voice, my feet have circumambulated Him, my hands have worshipped Him, my mouth has chanted hymns in His praise, my head has rested on His holy lotus feet and has been stroked lovingly by His tender hands and my mind has fixed itself on Him in deep meditation. Indeed, my body and mind belong only to Him. To Him alone I feel responsible and I cannot conceive even a breath without Him. What has He left for me to achieve, having given me His grace and made me His own? What more indeed is there one can aspire for?

SRI NAGENDRA RAO

(Sri Nagendra is deeply spiritual. It is hoped that his informative and inspirational account will benefit many a reader.)

My name is Nagendra Rao. What follows is a summary account of the circumstances under which I met His Holiness Sri Abhinava Vidya Theertha Mahaswamigal, the pontiff of Sringeri, seventeen years ago and subsequently became a Sishya of His. I am also adding a few summary comments on some of my experiences in Sadhana under His advice, loving guidance and most gracious Anugraha.

My parents had met His Holiness when He was at camp in Delhi some time in late 1966 or early 1967, and my mother, who always had a deep yearning for an affiliation with the Sringeri Math, became deeply devoted to His Holiness. At that time I was a student in my first year at the Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta. My mother, like all traditional Indian mothers, was devoted not only to her own spiritual progress but she was most interested that her family, in particular her children, should also follow the path of Dharma. She had therefore shown a little photograph of mine to His Holiness and entreated Him to bless me when she came to visit His Holiness when He was at camp in Calcutta. She subsequently wrote to me more than once that His Holiness the Jagadguru of Sringeri, would be coming to camp in Calcutta as part of His north Indian tour and that I should certainly go and see Him and seek His blessings. This would stand me in good stead in the future both for my secular prosperity and spiritual well-being.

Since I was studying in a management institute I recognised that His Holiness' immense secular duties and commitments and His great national prominence were at least equivalent to if not more important than those of the chief executive of a major Indian corporation. Since our family was not either of much note or of great wealth I was somewhat dubious as to whether a person of such stature would have time for someone as myself. Irrespective of what my mother wrote to me, I felt His Holiness had just told her in passing that He would see me to assuage the motherly instincts of a well-meaning devotee, but that was all. I could not even dream at the time that His Holiness was the type of great soul who would recall even such a small event in the midst of His multifarious activities. Accordingly, I did not pay too much attention to what my mother had written though I did not let her know that I was not too interested in meeting His Holiness. Really, mentally I had determined that there would be little point or purpose in my trying to see such an eminent personality.

Later, a few days afterwards I heard that His Holiness had come to camp in Ballygunj, Calcutta, from one of my room-mates whose house happened to be in the general area. He came back from having gone home one week-end and told me that the Jagadguru of Sringeri was camping in Ballygunj and that great numbers of people from all over Calcutta were coming to seek His blessings. He also made one additional comment which was that it seemed that His Holiness was giving time or audiences only to people of either considerable wealth or great secular prominence and that He had little time for the average seeker or the common man. This is what I had always estimated was probably the true state of affairs and since at that time I was of a very revolutionary bent of mind, I had no time to waste on such supposed holy men, Swamijis and Sanyasis. My friend's comments seemed to prove my intuition right and I totally dropped all ideas of meeting with His Holiness.

In the summer of 1967, at the end of my first year classes at the management institute, I went to Delhi to visit my parents. It so happened that His Holiness was again at camp in Delhi at that time and my mother was very particular that I should go to seek His blessings. I mentioned to her what I had learned from my classmate in Calcutta and told her that I was extremely allergic to meeting people of the nature mentioned whether they were holy men or otherwise. My mother told me, "Well, my son, I ask you to visit Him just this once,as your mother, and after that, God's will be done". After much persuasion, I agreed, but I told her that under no circumstances would I go in the traditional mode of visiting Him (which is wearing a dhoti and Angavastram) that I would go just as I was, in a shirt and a pair of trousers or that I would not go at all. My mother perforce had little choice and she accepted with a somewhat heavy heart.

After the morning bath, we went off to visit His Holiness. At the time, His Holiness was staying in the house of the then Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha. There, people had congregated to meet His Holiness, but somehow, almost miraculously it seemed that we were called in immediately for a personal audience with Him. His Holiness was seated on silver Asanam in a corner of a fairly large room in the front portion of the house. When we were ushered into the room, He immediately beckoned to us to come to Him. It was at this point that, suddenly, a spontaneous transformation came over me. The innate purity of His nature and the great power of His Tapas was such that I suddenly felt very unclean and rather out of place in the vestments that I had come in, and therefore I was extremely reluctant to go forward. He was kindness itself and repeated several times that I should come forward and made me sit within a couple of feet from Him. His first response on my sitting down was, "Why did you not come to see me in Calcutta, my son? Your mother had shown me a photograph of you, and I was watching every day to see whether you were among the hundreds of people who came by". This was but one more surprise, which left me totally dumb-founded. In the first instance, I never really thought that we could get in to see Him so quickly. And in the second instance, I certainly did not expect He would remember me from the photograph that He had seen. Of course, at the time I had no idea of His Holiness' phenomenal memory capacity, and His punctilious attention to even matters of the smallest detail. Ordinary people often imagine limitations in great souls which are really not there, because they judge them by their own limited abilities and attitudes.

As I started to recover my power of speech, spontaneously I felt one should be very honest in the presence of whom I now started feeling was a very unusual person and one of great spiritual magnitude. I decided to be completely truthful and tell His Holiness the exact reasons for which I did not come to see Him. I did not want to shock or hurt my mother too much. So I asked if she could leave the room for me to give Him an answer. His Holiness smiled and said, "A son should have no confidences or secrets from his mother", and said that she could remain in the room. I said, "If that is Your decision", and I launched into my explanation as to why I had not come to see Him in Calcutta. I explained to Him rather tersely that I had heard that He saw only people of wealth and high social standing and that I had really little use for meeting such personalities, no matter how spiritual or famous or eminent they were considered to be. There was pin-drop silence from all the servitors around who were stretching their ears (as they often do) to find out exactly what was going on in this dialogue. In my estimate, never before had anybody been quite so irreverent and that too in so explicit a manner, in front of His Holiness. I fully expected to be told to leave the room, never see His face again - in other words, some form of the Hindu equivalent of excommunication on the spot.

His Holiness' response was totally unexpected. He just smiled and said, "I am told you are a student of business administration, is it not?". I said, "Yes". He then asked me, if it was not true that I had to study some elements of law as part of my coursework. I again said, "Yes". And He said, "Is it not also true that in law, as it is practised in the land, hearsay information is not considered evidence?" I began to see what He was driving at, and said He was correct. He then asked me that as a man endowed with considerable education and a fair degree of discrimination, was it not expected of me, to have come there personally to see whether the allegations were really true or unfounded. He was so logical and reasonable that I really had nothing left to say, and I agreed with Him. What I also found remarkable at the time was that His Holiness used not the arcane letter and word of traditional Sastras of which I knew little at the time and for which I had even less regard. He used the very branches of secular learning with which I was fairly conversant and for which I had high regard, to make His point. This was another surprise to me. I had really not expected His Holiness to have such an immense understanding of and familiarity with the various branches of secular knowledge.

At this stage it suddenly seemed as if the floodgates of a dam had opened, and I then asked Him in very homely language as to what I should do to improve myself in my spiritual practices. His Holiness immediately said that being a Brahmin, I had already been initiated into the Gayathri Mantra and it was sufficient for me to repeat this and as a gracious gesture, He uttered the Mantra once in my presence. He then also told me to go to the seashore whenever I had the opportunity, sit on the beach, and observe the waves coming in. I asked Him, "Holiness, then what?". He said, "And observe, and observe, and observe". "But Holiness, I am not anywhere close to the sea," I said. He replied "Then go and look at the blue sky when there are no clouds". "And then, Holiness?" I asked. "And then look, and look, and look, and that would be the Sadhana for you", was the reply from Him. Since I had absolutely no acquaintance then with formal methods at Dhyanam, and I had heard the word "Samadhi" in only a vague sort of way, the full significance of what His Holiness told me totally escaped me. It has been my experience more than once since that time seventeen years ago, that His Holiness' words are never uttered in vain and they always bear fruit sooner or later.

Somehow, after this small event, almost overnight, my attitudes towards His Holiness and the Math changed. Frankly, there were throw backs at certain times at what I felt was a somewhat overwhelming attention paid to age-old customs of Brahmin orthodoxy which seemed rather irrelevant and inequitable in the present day and age. Although we lived fairly far away, I began attending either the morning or evening Pujas as often as I could, and of my own accord, started to dress in the traditional manner in which one approached His Holiness if one is a Brahmin from Southern India. Over the years my respect and reverence for His Holiness gradually grew. However it took me several years to fully accept that He was qualified to be my Guru and then when humility entered, a few more years of doubt as to whether I was qualified to be His Sishya.

I graduated from the Indian Institute of Management in 1968 and took up a position as a Management Trainee in Madras with a leading textile manufacturing firm of South India. It was really only then that Holiness' almost limitless power, great compassion and almost omniscient wisdom began to make itself felt as they gradually began to play a definitive role in moulding my character and guiding me in my Sadhana. I would like to give here just one instance of this which is still very fresh in my mind, after over 15 years. Interestingly enough, the incident that I am about to relate also shows that His Holiness, like all great souls and Jivanmuktas teaches in many ways, and His actions can often be more powerful than His words as a means of teaching.

In 1968, after I had been working for about six months, suddenly I felt an urge in me to seek out His Holiness. At my company I was considered to be somewhat of a whiz kid on what is called the fast-track in the United States. In the textile sales department, I had as an assistant a clerk who was almost my father's age. The man was very hardworking, respectful, but I am afraid, not exactly very responsible, competent or intelligent. He made some errors in doing a piece of work that I had given him. At the time I was extremely brusque with him pointing out what I felt were certain rather obvious short-comings in the work that he had done. Work relationships are authoritarian in India and my company was a British firm where the clerical staff were customarily expected to be even more sub-servient. My assistant took what I had to say silently and slowly went back to his seat. It was sometime after this towards the end of the day that I felt rather disgusted with myself and with the work that I was doing. Here was a man who was almost my father's age and I had treated him, as I reflected later, most rudely because of a certain official position I held. I had misused what was certain God-given quickness of mind to put down someone who really was not equipped in any way to argue with me. I went off to Sringeri to meet with His Holiness. At that time, I told Him that I was not much interested in job or career that I was really thinking in terms of resigning, to go away to reflect, study and think. His Holiness nodded His head sagely and after a few moments rather casually asked me how much I was earning, and what kind of position I held. Immediately I sensed what He was getting at and answered Him rather brusquely, giving him the amount of money I was earning which was very considerable for my age and also explained to Him that the position I held was also one of great responsibility for one so young. I was 21 years old at the time. I then explained to Him in some detail, which I had not done earlier, the reasons why I felt rather miserable at the time. His Holiness did not say anything. I prostrated and left.

The same afternoon, I again went to His Holiness for Darshanam. I was sitting with Him in Narasimhavanam when quite suddenly He got up and proceeded at a great speed, walking towards the little bridge across the river, which led to the main part of the town of Sringeri. I did not know quite what to make of this and was standing watching somewhat hesitantly, when He looked back at me and most imperiously beckoned to me to follow Him and then walked on without looking back. Somewhat puzzled, I followed Him respectfully a few paces behind. His Holiness had moved so fast and unexpectedly, that there was not even time for any of His attendants to follow Him, as is normally the custom in the Math. Anyway, we both went across the river to where the new Gopuram for Sri Sharadambal temple was being built. Some of the workers who were really goldbricking when they were supposed to be working were caught completely by surprise. His Holiness ascended the scaffolding with great agility and then proceeded to excoriate the workers in quite blistering terms. He then climbed down the scaffolding rapidly with myself following Him, and walked back towards the bridge at a high speed. At the edge of the river, He looked at me, gave me a big smile, and with His hand gave me a most monarchial wave of dismissal. I was completely astounded to see how someone who seemed so red-faced, choleric and in a sense almost abusive in His haranguing the labourers could suddenly seem to be so peaceful and jolly. It was only several days later that I gradually came to understand the impact of His Holiness' actions on that day. What in effect His Holiness was telling me through action even so more eloquently than by word was that sometimes it is absolutely necessary to be hard on some people when more gentle methods of giving instruction might be somewhat lost. But more important than this was the message that all this must be carried on like an actor playing a part on a stage rather than becoming identified with the emotion evinced. That His Holiness was totally unattached to the emotional display that He put on top of the Gopuram was evinced by the fact that almost the next moment, He seemed to be in such a totally peaceful and jolly state of mind, with all traces of anger and displeasure totally effected from His face. This lesson was to be of great importance to me in the years to come since my career was to be in business and government.

I can give several instances of occasions in which I received guidance and messages from His Holiness by what would be termed, supernormal or paranormal means, but since so many instances of this nature have already been given in the accounts of the experiences of others with His Holiness I do not propose to go on ad nauseam on this aspect.

Sometime during 1969, I became firm in my earlier, somewhat vague ideas of going abroad to the United States for doctoral studies in business administration, not so much as a means to get another degree, but as an ideal opportunity for me to read , study, reflect and think. His Holiness remonstrated with me more than once that I should not go abroad, but having a rather obdurate, contrary nature, I think that more than anything else, that made me more determined to do what I thought I must do. I had secured admission to an elite Ivy League School, and after considerable difficulty, I did manage to obtain a student loan from a bank in India necessary for my first year's expenses in the United States since I had not yet obtained a fellowship at that time. As soon as my loan was secure, I resigned my position at the company in which I was working and went to Sringeri to seek His Holiness' blessings to go abroad. In my brashness at the time, I did not realize that in effect I was telling Him rather than asking Him by going to meet Him when my journey to study in the United States was in effect fait accompli. The moment I reached Sringeri, the first time that I prostrated before His Holiness, He looked at me, smiled and said, "You are here, so it means that your way is clear and you are going abroad to study". I said, "Yes, Holiness". It was also at that time, in December 1970, that my initiation into developing the Advaita Bhavana gradually commenced through the blessings of His Holiness. When I was sitting with him just before taking Phalamantrakshata, I was somewhat overcome with the enormity of what I was contemplating, particularly since I had come to Him, seeking His blessings for going directly contrary to what He had told me was appropriate on more than one occasion in the past. Anyhow, I said, "Guruji, I am going a long distance away and communication from there will not be easy. Do you have any final message for me or last words?". His Holiness instantly turned towards me, gave me a piercing look and said, "Do not think ever of I and mine . So much as you internalize this, you are a Vedantin, others are mere repeaters of the Vedas. I have many such sitting around Me all the time".

I would now like to relate a little incident which took place around February or March, 1970 which I consider perhaps the single most important factor which has had an impact on my life since then. I had recently been given a considerable promotion in terms of authority and responsibility and I had come to the corporate headquarters in Madras for a Management Committee Meeting. Paradoxically, the new authority and responsibility increased my sense of Vairagyam and made me even more determined to resign my job at the earliest and to proceed to the United States for further studies. This, I felt, would give me the creative leisure for my own personal philosophic search and enquire into Vedanta in which a spontaneous interest had slowly started arising. Since I had come to Madras, I decided that I had a few days of free time and I might as well go to Sringeri to meet His Holiness and seek His blessings. It had been almost a year since I had seen Him last. I met His Holiness at Sringeri, prostrated and during the course of my conversation, again the first words which tumbled out were"Guruji I am really not interested in a regular job or career beyond the age of 30. The rest of my life I would like to spend in reflection and study. I am totally uninterested in working till retirement at an advanced age." His Holiness' immediate response was, "The last time you met Me a little over a year ago, you had said exactly what you told me just now. Since this thought has been constantly in your mind, for such a sustained period of time, it surely will come true". His Holiness being verily the Swarupa of Ishwara Himself, whatever He says inevitably transpires. I have never had the inclination since then to follow a conventional career path, but somehow sufficient work of a consulting nature has come by at regular intervals which has taken care of my relatively modest needs and frugal life-style.

A couple of days later, after this incident, I was to meet His Holiness in the afternoon to ask Him some further questions on my Sadhana. I went across the bridge to Narasimhavanam to Sacchidananda Vilas and I was waiting outside on the verandah for my audience. His Holiness was then taking classes. Suddenly an attendant came outside and told me that His Holiness had asked me to come into the little room where He was taking classes. Since it is not the general practice in Sringeri to allow just anyone to be present when His Holiness is taking classes in general and especially on the Upanishads, I was not sure that I had heard the attendant correctly. The attendant, however, insisted that what I had heard was correct and that His Holiness had asked me to go into the room. I went in and prostrated and I stood up again silently behind the three boys sitting directly in front of His Holiness, who with a wave of His hand told me to sit down. The class went on for about an hour and insofar as I can recall, it was dealing with the beginning portion of the Advaita Prakarana of Sri Gaudapadacharya's Mandukyakarikas, where the non-difference in essence, between the Ghatakasa and Mahakasa is logically presented. His Holiness' discourse was entirely in Sanskrit and I knew absolutely no Sanskrit. But listening to the words which seemed to flow forth with such enormous power from this great Soul, I was overcome with tears and I reflected that this was really what I should have been doing myself to claim my birthright and heritage as a Brahamana, and that I had wasted the greater part of my early years in getting a totally secular education which was of no value at all as far as my spiritual salvation was concerned. But as tears spontaneously welled up from my eyes in great profusion, a most wonderous thing happened. Suddenly it seemed as if I was somehow subliminally internalizing what His Holiness was discoursing on and that it was entering me very deep. A sense of great peace and calm descended on me and time passed. The class was over. His Holiness got up immediately and with a perfunctory wave of the hand again dismissed me. There was no question of an interview that day, and I slowly walked back to my room in Shankara Niketan.

It is my firm belief that His Holiness on that day gave His Sampurna Anugraham to this brash, rebellious disciple who really had done little to deserve it in this birth. Out of His infinite mercy and compassion, seeing the struggles and atleast the sincere intent He decided to bestow His grace. I strongly believe that whatever little of Advaitanubhava I bear in me today comes from that solitary discourse of His that I was privileged to hear many years ago and not from the countless hours I have devoted to rigorous study of diverse Vedantic texts since then.

I left for the United States in January, 1971, and it was about 8 months later that suddenly my Vedantic studies began in great earnest. Translations of the Vivekachoodamani and the Brahma Sutra Bhashyas of Sri Shankara Bhagavatpadal, summarized by Swami Vireswaranada, the current President of the Ramakrishna Order came to my hand by pure chance. A graduate student in Eastern philosophy and Sanskrit at the University of Pennsylvania where I too was a graduate student was leaving for India and was giving these books away. Being raised in a traditional Brahmin family, I was extremely hesitant about accepting gifts from anyone. In addition, I was particularly fastidious about keeping any books that I used for study particularly for spiritual study, immaculate and spotlessly clean. The books offered to me by the students were brand new and he said he would just throw them away if I did not take them. Reflecting on this, I thought it was appropriate to receive the books from him. As soon as the books came into my hands, it seemed as if some enormous power was at work forcing me to sit down and study these arcane texts, giving up many of my other activities and interests. The books were translations into English, no doubt, and well done, but the subject matter at that time seemed to me to be extremely tough, even after spending countless hours on it, I could barely understand the introduction to the Brahma Sutras. I would get splitting headaches, yet, I found it impossible to give up my efforts to comprehend the subject matter in the books. Gradually, however, some small glimmerings of comprehension came which grew slowly with time. I began acquiring copies of the English translations of every work of Adi Shankara that I could lay my hands on, and in my own blundering, stumbling ways I tried to comprehend what the great Acharyal was saying.

In the meantime, I rapidly began losing what little interest I had in the first place in the doctoral programme in business for which I had come to the United States. An all consuming desire seized me to spend all the hours that I could, by night and by day, studying and reflecting on the various Vedantic texts I had acquired both my own and those I had proceeded to borrow from the University library in great numbers. I passed my doctoral comprehensive examinations. I can say again only through His Holiness' grace.I had done virtually no study, frankly, to deserve to succeed in the examinations, but somehow I managed to acquit myself fairly well. I could not, however, summon the energy to complete my thesis in which I had absolutely no interest. I found that it was virtually impossible for me to devote deep thought to any branch of secular learning. Frankly, at that time I felt that for some reason or the other my mental faculties were dulling or becoming considerably weakened. Five and a half years passed in this manner, see-sawing between alternate moods of considerable depression and great elation and peace.

My father had retired from the Indian Foreign Service in the meantime and had come back to India. In mid 1976, I felt it was time to meet both him and His Holiness in particular, and I once again came to Sringeri where my parents had been staying for several months. I prostrated before His Holiness, and with a voice tremulous with emotion, placed before Him the problems that I had been wrestling with for years with little success. I told Him that I felt somehow with time my mental faculties were dimming and that I was totally unable to concentrate on my thesis or any secular studies for that matter. His Holiness gave me a most compassionate smile and said that I was incorrect in my thinking, that in reality my intellectual faculties were being enormously sharpened and that my powers of concentration were being greatly heightened. Because all my faculties were devoted to Brahmachintana without break, and all my energies were being consumed by this, it seemed as if I was slowing in my mental and physical reactions. A little later, His Holiness gently and of His own accord said, "I am pleased with your dedication and devotion in the search for Truth. Two years of single-minded study of Vedantic texts will be sufficient for your purposes".

When His Holiness gave His Sampoornanugraha in this manner to my efforts, I found again that suddenly my path became very smooth. All the earlier obstructions - noncomprehension, miscomprehension - seemed almost miraculously to melt away. After that, I studied for a little under two years the Mandukya Bhashyas and certain select sections of the Brahma Sutras. All my doubts and vacillations vanished, my heart became full. A great sense of peace descended on me and my searching and seeking stopped. While it would be totally incorrect to say that I have any great scholarship in Vedanta, or that I could answer all manners of complex questions on the Bhashyas of Sri Bhagavatpadal, I can certainly say there is a certain-rootedness in the perennial truth, which developed then, has continued uninterruptedly since then and is with me constantly now. Trials and tribulations, and sorrows of this phenomenal world no doubt come and go, but increasingly I am spontaneously able to view them as illusions, chimaera, appearing in front of my eyes. This attitude born of direct experience that there is an unchanging substratum to this ever-changing phenomenal world which is nondifferent from me, which is myself in a sense, has continued uninterruptedly. Of its own accord this Bhavana is assuming greater and greater strength as time passes. In that sense, I can say, because of His Holiness' infinite mercy and compassion, my seeking of Sadhana has stopped. There remains nothing further to acquire or renounce. There is nothing to seek or to aspire for yet as long as this illusory mortal coil continues, the force of Prarabdha will manifest in various ways. This I can now contemplate in peace as the Sakshi the witness of it all.

Traditionally, the Sringeri Acharyas have been considered to be not only Jivanmuktas endowed with the highest spiritual wisdom but also men of immense practicality and great worldly wisdom as well. His Holiness had displayed both these aspects in the course of guiding me spiritually. His advice and impact on me in relation to matter transcendental can be seen from the few instances that I have narrated earlier. I would now like to give one instance of the manner in which his advice has been exceedingly apt and appropriate even in relation to the everyday world.

When I commenced my Vedanta Sadhana in the early 70's, my earnestness was,frankly,greater than my understanding of its requirements and the manner in which these should be applied. Since at that time, I was not in the constant presence of my Guru, I had to proceed by trial and error, with only my conviction that His Holiness' grace was ever with me, and hence that I could not fail in my search. I was born with a considerable Rajasic disposition and when I analyzed myself from the standpoint of the competence or Adhikara for Vedanta Vichara, I found several short-comings in myself. There were two which I felt were serious. The others I could sublimate with relative ease. The first was sense of ego born of the fact that I had been successful at whatever I had attempted and that too with very little effort. I seemed to have a rather irascible short temper, born of a relative quickness of mind and body which I had been endowed with by nature compared to most people. This led to great impatience on my part when I perceived those around me to be so slow in their actions either mental or physical. Resolving that these short-comings must go, I applied myself to them with more energy than wisdom. At the great University consulting centre where I worked I decided in future that I would be very meek, unobtrusive, and mild in my manners as far as possible. The unfortunate result of this well-intentioned but misguided resolution was that I came very close to losing the fellowship which provided the financial support both for my doctoral studies in business and paradoxically also for my Vedanta Sadhana. Management consulting is an intensively Rajasic profession where a strong personality, great drive, aggressiveness, motivation and decisiveness are at a premium. My evaluation reports started coming in that I lacked motivation, energy, ability to express myself, and the ability to act decisively. Losing my fellowship at this stage would have been little less than catastrophic for both my studies and my Sadhana. Hence I shelved my efforts to correct my perceived defects of character, and went back to being true to my own innate nature which was extremely hard-driving, aggressive, and in a sense somewhat imperious and dominating. Within less than three months, my evaluation reports changed over almost completely. I was suddenly viewed again as being bright, articulate, efficient and decisive. I got a hefty raise and greater responsibility.

But I was tortured internally because of my own personal standards of evaluation. I felt I had failed,that when the acid test came, I had sold myself to Mammon rather than moving in the ways of God. I put this issue before His Holiness and asked Him what I was to do under such circumstances. His Holiness' response was instantaneous and categoric.

"My son, it is your destiny to be in business and politics for a long time to come. Still, if you were to become outwardly humble in that manner, there would be people who would swallow you alive. The nature of your work environment is such that you should humble yourself before God in private, but never outwardly before man in public".

So far I have spoken about His Holiness' guidance to me in relation to Vedanta Vichara and ways in which should act in the world. On more than one occasion in the past, His Holiness has guided me and given me His sage advice in relation to many other fields of endeavour. I will now conclude by narrating a couple of instances in relation to my practices of meditations (Yogabhyasa).

Both because of Samskara and because I was educated from a very young age in Catholic Mission Schools, I had always been endowed with certain messianic zeal and fervour to do some good for the world in whatever manner I was capable. The traditional Vedantic concept that this phenomenal world is innately nothing but a reflection of our own mental state and that therefore it would inspire in direct proportion to one's own self-improvement was something which I had not heard of at that time. Frankly, even if I had heard of it, at my level of immaturity then, I doubt that I would have given any credence to such an approach at all. This great haste to save the world before putting one's own house in order was finally and decisively knocked out of me in 1976 when I had come back from the United States to visit His Holiness.

At that time, I was very much concerned about the spiritual well-being of a few people who were close to me in the United States. After lunch one day in Sringeri, I lay down to take a nap when I had a dream which in a sense was more vision than dream, whose elements were so graphic that they remain evergreen in my memory. In the vision, I was seated with four other people I knew in a little room in His Holiness' presence where He usually give interviews, waiting for an audience with Him. As soon as He came in I prostrated immediately and said, "Your Holiness, please give these people also that which you have given me". (This was uttered in the sense in which the story comes in the Puranas where Prahlada asks Lord Narayana in his infinite compassion to bestow Mukti on all.) His Holiness in a very brusque tone turned towards me and said, "That which was given to you, my son, cannot be given to the others for whom you are seeking it as they are not competent". (This was in the sense that they were not actively seeking for it themselves). With that statement, He rapidly walked towards and touched me in the region of the Anahatachakra with the ring finger of His right hand. Almost instantaneously, the entire universe spun away and dissolved, and for fractions of a second, there was a blissful ineffable peace of an intensity which cannot be described. I passed into a state which is in essence totally beyond description.

Almost the next moment , I woke up and found that I was lying on my bed. For many years after that, I searched and searched and strived with might and main to experience once again that type of Ananda. It was only much later that I reexperienced the same ecstasy when I was studying the Shankara Bhashya on the Alatashanti(fourth) Prakarana of the Mandukya Karika with Swami Nisreyasananda, a very senior and elderly monk of the Ramakrishna Order. This experience has come in longer duration more than once of late as I have been on the verge of Samadhi in my Dhyanam practices with a great Chinese Buddhist master and scholar, venerable Shifu Shang Yen, with whom I study in New York.

I wanted to find out from His Holiness the true import of this dream, whether it was in effect really of the nature of vision with a message for me or Bhrama (mental delusion) and a product of my own mind.

Two days later when I was having an interview with His Holiness, in the afternoon, I somewhat timidly mentioned to Him that I would like His comments about an incident that took place in a dream a couple of days before. Immediately, He interrupted me, told me to wait, promptly sat in Siddhasana (the traditional meditative posture), His hand lying on the top of each other on His lap, eyes closed. Then He told me to relate the incident. After I finished, He commented, "No, it was not a delusion. What I meant to tell you was that you have too much concern for the welfare and salvation of other people. Your shoulders are not broad enough as yet to carry their load. First, increase the strength of your own Tapas, and you will find that the ability to help people will come very naturally and spontaneously. Till that time, pay no attention to the world, even if it is going to rack and ruin. Otherwise, not only will you not help the world, but in effect, you may end up hurting yourself and needing help".

On another occasion, when I was asking Him a question relating to concentration of mind, He advised me to study Sadasivabrahmendra Saraswati's Yoga Sutra Vritti. "From that will come a certain power and strength to your words so that they will carry conviction in the minds and hearts of those people who come seeking your help".

During the same visit to His Holiness, when I was speaking to another of his close devotees who had been initiated by His Holiness into several Mantras, I suddenly realised that I had not received any Mantropadesa from Him. In the interest of more rapid progress in my Sadhana, I wanted to remedy this situation with great dispatch. Accordingly I went off to see Him and somewhat hesitantly asked Him whether I could be initiated into atleast one Mantra, since I had met someone who had been initiated into several, He said, "Many Mantras are given to an individual whose mind does not have the patience and stability to stick to practice with only one until it bears fruit. I can give you initiation into so many Mantras that you would not find sufficient time to repeat them even if you were to start at the break of dawn and go on to the coming of dusk. They would be absolutely of no use to you in your practice. However, you can take up on your own accord the Japa of any Mantra that you wish and it will certainly bear fruit". He then proceeded to give me a short exposition of the Dhrishti-Shrishti-Vada (perception and creation) school of Vedanta, and asked me to constantly reflect on it as that would be the appropriate means of Sadhana for me. His Holiness' exposition of the Dhrishti-Shrishti-Vada was exceptionally lucid, but as it was as many years ago, I do not recall the details now, hence I am not giving them here.

His Holiness also has exceptional capacity to guide people confidentially and mentally in the most public surroundings. To give one instance, once I was sitting in front of His Holiness with a number of other people, when His Holiness wanted me to have knowledge of certain matters that would not be appropriate for Him to expound in public. A few moments later, when He became involved in a discussion with someone else in the room, I suddenly developed an urge to go and explore a pile of books lying in a corner of the room, which is certainly not observing decorum in His Holiness' presence. The volume on top was, if I recall correctly, an English translation of the Charaka Samhita. The moment I picked up the volume, it fell open to a certain page where there was an exposition given in great detail on certain matters of Achara that concerned me personally. I read the commentary, closed the book quietly, came back and sat where I was sitting earlier. His Holiness casually turned towards me a little while later and asked, "Did you follow?". I nodded and said, "Yes". A normal person sitting in the room would have thought that His Holiness was referring to the dialogue that He was having with the other person.

I mentioned the above incident in particular so that other people reading this account may not lose heart if they find they cannot get an individual interview with His Holiness on occasions when they have some pressing personal problems. If their faith is strong, in His presence, somehow a solution will come, even in the most public of circumstances. This I have seen on numerous occasions.

I have mentioned above only those few instances of my interactions with His Holiness which have had a lasting and deep impact on my spiritual evolution. I came to His Holiness as a young, brash, heretic, reasonably disciplined in my life-style but nevertheless a heretic, in relation to the attitudes, forms and modes prevalent in what is certainly the most orthodox of mathas in South India, if not all over India. Over the years I have changed and adopted many of the rules, behaviour and Achara customary of the Matha as I realised their wisdom and relevance, born of my own contemplation on their utility. I never was, am not now, and probably never will be an orthodox conformist in the manner in which most of His Holiness' disciples are. During these seventeen years of my contact with His Holiness, there have been occasions without number when I have felt, "Now surely I have exceeded the limits or bounds of propriety of this most sacred institution, the Sringeri Math, and His Holiness who is its pontiff". I fully expected to be told to leave and not to show my face here again. Yet His Holiness has been most kind in His infinite compassion, and my being with Him, even now, is living tribute to the fact that His umbrella of grace is large enough and universal enough to give shelter to all, whether orthodox or heterodox, oriental or occidental, and also irrespective of whatever faith they profess or do not profess.

Perhaps there are others who read this account who are as I was or am and who have turned away from His Holiness or the Math under the incorrect assumptions that there is no place here for them. If such are heartened after reading this account of mine to come to His Holiness to seek His blessings and benefit thereby, my purpose in penning these few lines would have been well served.

Sri S. Ramakrishnan

(Sri Ramakrishnan is the secretary of the Sringeri Math branch temple, West Mambalam, Madras housing the shrines of Ganapathy, Sharada and Krishna and is a staunch devotee of Acharyal. Many people know him by name 'Ujjain Ramakrishnan'. Herein he narrates a few incidents and thereby explains the greatness of Acharyal.)

I am writing this article by the immense compassion and grace of Acharyal. In 1966 I had a dream that Acharyal was giving me Sanyasa. I informed Acharyal of this dream who asked me to go over to Ujjain where He was camping . By His grace I had a good Darshanam at Ujjain for a week after which His Holiness told me, "I will tell you the details later".

Desiring to take to a Sanyasi's life, I awaited Acharyal's permission. On Gokulashtami He suddenly called me in and initiated me into Sri Krishna Mantra. On the night of initiation I had Darshanam of Lord Krishna in my dream. In the dream,I was unable to catch hold of the Lord's flute inspite of His repeated instructions. The next morning I informed Acharyal this who replied that I could reach Krishna by means of Japam and devotion. Two days passed. Then Acharyal told me, "The Sanyasa matter can be looked into later. Now you send Me an idol of Sri Mahaganapathy. I will have it sent back to you after keeping it in the Puja". Only now do I realise why He sent me back without giving me permission for Sanyasa.

I presume that it was only for involving me in the construction of the Sringeri Math in West Mambalam and also the temples of Sharada, Ganapathy and Krishna in it.

Speaking of Sringeri Math I am reminded of some incidents connected with its construction. In 1977, during the Madras visit, Acharyal performed Puja in a ground situated in the street where I reside. I and the other committee members thought of constructing a temple for Sharada in that land and by the grace of Acharyal purchased the land. We registered it in the name of Sringeri Math itself. Dharmatma Dr.Vaidyasubramanya Iyer, who laid the foundation stone, said in his speech that Acharyal had expressed to him in 1977 itself that it would be nice if a temple was constructed in that place. Dharmatma had not told me this till then. Is it not the grace of Acharyal to have induced such a thought in our minds also? It is He who had graced me, the most insignificant one, to overcome the problems that cropped up during each and every stage in the temple construction.

While registering the land meant for construction of the Math, a sum of Rs.5000/- was urgently needed. Most unexpectedly, a person helped me with the necessary amount of money. What else could this be if not Guru's grace? I have also been blessed with Acharyal's Padukas.

Yet another incident: In September 1981, during the construction of the Math, I had to face many an obstacle. I conveyed to Acharyal, through Sri Umesh, the troubles arising from different quarters. About a week after Sri Umesh's departure to Sringeri I received a telegram with the message that Acharyal had said that the situation would soon improve. I was elated by this message. A wonder connected with this is that on the very day Sri Umesh talked to His Holiness about this, donations started pouring in for my collection. Further, within 20 days of my receipt of the telegram I was able to an amount much beyond my expectations. My difficulties too began to vanish like dew at the rising sun. I am sure it was all due to the compassion of the Guru, the Lord of Kali Yuga. It is definite that anyone who has intense devotion and has surrendered himself to Acharyal will remain immersed in the ocean of His blissful grace.

Gurubhakta Alankara Sri P.R.Hariharan

(Gurubhakta Alankara Sri P.R.Hariharan is a staunch devotee of Acharyal who has served his Guru in many ways. He is well known to devotees of our Guru. His affable nature and helpfulness mark him out.)

My family has been fortunate in having the grace of Jagadguru of Sringeri Sharada Peetam from the time of my father Sri R.S.Ramakrishna Iyer right from 1918. My parents had Manthropadesam from His Holiness Jagadguru Chandrasekhara Bharathi Mahaswamigal and I have had the fortune of having Manthropadesam from His Holiness Jagadguru Abhinava Vidyateertha Mahaswamigal in the year 1950 and my revered father also passed on to me the Manthropadesam he had from His Holiness Sri Sri Chandrashekara Bharathi Swamigal. Elders have said that if one has Upadesam from a great Saint, the saint will lift him up for salvation at the end of life. This has been amply proved in the case of my parents. My mother passed away in 1952 on her Shastiabdhapoorthi day on completion of one cycle of 60 years, repeating Ramatharaka Manthram, the Upadesam of which she had along with my father from H.H.Sri Sri Chandrashekara Bharathi Mahaswamigal. My father died in 1958 after a vision of Shiva. It was three days before his demise, when I was about to go to Bombay, in the dead of night he called me when I just returned from the office and told me as to how his possessions were to be distributed among the children. I did not realise that day that he will be no more within a few days and flying to Bombay on a Sunday, I had to fly back on Tuesday night along with my elder brother Gurubhakthamani, late Sri P.R. Subramanyam, to perform the final rites of my father. H.H. Sri Sri Mahasannidhanam blessed us all and told me that my father has attained salvation. Before my father passed away, he was in search of suitable bridegrooms for my youngest sister and for my brother's P.R. Subramanyam's daughter as well as for my eldest daughter. On his sudden demise, the responsibility of searching suitable bridegrooms fell on me and on a particular day in March 1959, I had gone to Kottayam and on my return journey I was halting in my sister's house at Palghat and sitting in the outside verandah, I was doing my Japam when somebody passed that way and told me that Brahmasri Sundara Ganapatigal was in Palghat. He told me this because he knew my close connection with Sringeri Mutt and I immediately went to the place where Sri Ghanpatigal was camping and I found that he had just left. However, I got the information that H.H.Jagadguru Mahasannidhanam was that day camping at Bhavani. Immediately I left Palghat and reached Bhavani at about 3 p.m. when His Holiness was about to leave for Kodumudi. His Holiness directed me to follow his car and that I could have His Darshan late in the night after the Pooja. I followed H.H. Sri Sri Mahasannidhanam to Kodumudi where a very grand procession had been arranged. After the procession, Sharada Chandramouleeswara Pooja was performed by His Holiness. The Pooja was over only at midnight and I was waiting for Darshan of His Holiness.

Within a few minutes I was called in and I explained about the responsibility that had fallen on me, consequent on the demise of my father, of fixing suitable bridegrooms for my youngest sister, my daughter and my brother's daughter. His Holiness closed His eyes for a few seconds and directed me to conduct Sankatahara Chathurthi Vratham commencing from the next Krishnapaksha Chathurthi day and that all impediments would be removed by the divine grace of Lord Mahaganapathi. I accordingly commenced the Vratham and after the first Pooja, before the next month's Pooja day, I was away in Bombay when for a few days I attended the Ramayanam lectures of Sengalipuram Anantharama Dikshitar and one night I had to drop Sri Dikshitar at his place of residence when he, enquired whether I would be continuing to remain in Bombay till the end of his Ramayanam Discourse. I told him that I was flying back to Bangalore the next day as I had to perform the Sankatahara Chathurthi Pooja on the day following as directed by His Holiness. Then immediately He said that there was a suitable bridegroom in Salem and if I could show Him the horoscopes of all the three girls, He would be able to say as to which of them would match with that of the boy. I immediately went to my brother's place and brought the horoscopes and showed them to Him. He suggested that I send all the three horoscopes to the father of the boy and that in his opinion my daughter's horoscope agreed very well with that of the boy in Salem. I returned to Mysore and on the day of the Pooja, I wrote to Dr. Ramanatha Iyer of Salem who was also a staunch devotee of Sringeri Mutt and he readily replied confirming the agreement of my daughter's horoscope with that of his eldest son and offered to come after about 10 days. He and his family came on the Chathurthi day in the bright fortnight, Suklapaksha and we settled the marriage the same day in the month of May and on the 10th of June, 1959, again a Suklapaksha Chathurthi day, the marriage of my daughter took place. In the marriage pandal itself the proposal for my sister's marriage was finalised and as the bridegroom was away in Bhopal and was expected in January 1960, that marriage took place in February 1960. Thereafter, the monthly Poojas were continued and in September 1960, the marriage of my brother's daughter was also performed in Bombay. Therefore, as the objective of the Vratham i.e. the settlement of the three marriages, had been fulfilled, after due conduct of the monthly Poojas from April 1959 to August 1960, H.H. Sri Sri Mahasannidhanam directed that I could complete the Vrathodyapanam and perform Sahasra Modaka Ganapathi Homam and continue to do the Homam every year and I am accordingly continuing this direction and of course, continuing the usual Mahaganapathi Japam throughout. I am happy to state that my youngest sister, my eldest daughter and my brother's daughter are well settled in life. My son-in-law who is in the Madras Medical Service is at present the Superintendent of ESI Hospital at Madras. My brother's daughter is in Houston along with her husband and children and my youngest sister is in Bombay, her husband being a Company Secretary in a leading Company.

All of us know that life has its own ups and downs and we have to suffer the consequences of our Prarabdha Karma. While in Madras in October 1964 I was seriously ill with a bleeding ulcer in the stomach and I vomited blood and my condition was serious. Fortunately for me, H.H. Sri Sri Mahasannidhanam, was in Madras at that time and I passed on a message from the nursing home to the Sringeri Mutt at Mambalam. In the meantime a telephone message had been conveyed without my knowledge to my brother Sri P.R. Subramanyam at Bangalore and to my son at Mysore and all of them rushed to Madras and reached Pandalai's Nursing Home at about 1 p.m. In the meantime, H.H. Sri Sri Mahasannidhanam sent Prasadams blessed for my speedy recovery through our Mutt Purohit Ganapathi Subramanya Avadhanigal. While the car entered through one gate, Sri Avadhanigal entered through another gate in the Mutt van and after the Prasadams were received, the bleeding stopped and I did not have any black stools thereafter and within 2 days, much against the protests of the doctors, I left the nursing home and rested in Madras for about a fortnight visiting the Mutt every evening and hearing the Upanyasam of His Holiness and attending the night Pooja. With diet restrictions I got over the ulcer problem.

Again, 12 years later, in the year 1976, the Prarabdha Karma worked and I had a fall which resulted in a hip-bone fracture and I was confined to bed for nearly 3 months, but with the blessings of His Holiness, I was completely cured much to the surprise of the orthopaedic surgeons who treated me. They had predicted that my left leg would be short by at least 1/2 an inch due to a mal-union of the hip bone and that I would limp for life. However, before I was tied down to my bed and the complaint was not properly diagnosed, I had visited Sringeri and had Darshan. At that time, with acute pain I was using a walking stick and I was actually limping. H.H. Mahasannidhanam said that everything would be alright in due course and that I would throw off the walking stick and that I should strictly carry out the doctor's directions. Such is the grace of the Guru. I was restored to normal health and with the blessings of the Guru and the co-operation of the citizens of Mysore and all the devotees of the Sringeri Mutt from all over India, why, from all over the world, I have been able to serve the Mutt in its activities at Mysore and outside.

One more instance must be reported by me. In view of the Navarathri celebrations at Abhinava Shankaralaya, Mysore ever since the installation of Sri Sharada in Mysore I have not been able to attend the Navarathri celebrations at Sringeri during the first 9 days and after finishing the Chandi Homam at Mysore on Navami day, I have on one or two previous occasions, gone to Sringeri on Dasami day and participated in the Rathotsavam on Ekadasi day. Similarly during 1983 also I had decided to go to Sringeri on Dasami day and I had written to the Administrator with a request to arrange for my Seva on Rathotsavam day. Suddenly in the morning on Dasami day when I was half the way through my Pooja, I took ill and my nephew's wife who is a doctor and was at home that time examined me and became nervous and reported to my son that both my blood pressure and pulse had fallen. My son was asked to call my family doctor Dr.P.R.Sindhe. I had felt a little giddiness and offering my prayers I dozed off for about half an hour. Suddenly I got up and felt that