THE ADVENT OF VIJAYABHINANDAN BUDDHA NISHKALANK.
CHAPTER - (PRAKARAN) - l.
Swami Laldas ji quoted the reference of
one of the Hindus’ scriptures, named “Bhavishya Puran” composed by Shri Ved
Vyas ji, a very learned personality, who was the author of ‘Mahabharata’ (a
part of which is Shrimad Bhagwat Geeta) and many other Hindus’ sacred
scriptures. Shri Vyas ji described the names of the Rulers (Kings) in each of
the four yugas. Swami Laldas ji in this verse, addresses the readers to think
over the words of Shri Ved Vyas ji, who prophesied in the above named holy
scripture about the period (the regime of Aurangzeb, the Emperor of India) when
the Advent of Vijayabhinandan Buddha Nishkalank would take place (named Shri
Mahamati Prannath ji).
Among the four yugas (the major
period allotted to each), the first is Satyayug (having its duration of 34,
56,000 years). There were seventeen kings in Satyayug, the name of the first
king was ‘Krat’ who lived a pious life and led his life peacefully. His
successor was ‘Kratdutta’, the second King in Satyayug.
The next successors were ‘Ant’,
‘Muchkundbha’, ‘Bhairwanand’, and ‘Kammo’ the kings.
The King ‘Aadi’ succeeded ‘Kammo’
and then ‘Hirnakush’, defamed for his enmity with Lord Vishnu. He was killed by
Narsingh (Lord Vishnu’s appearance). His son, Prahlad succeeded him as one of
the famous devotees of Lord Vishnu.
After Prahlad, Vali Lochan was
the king in Satyayug and Valibhugat was his successor. He was succeeded by
Lochanvali.
Banasur succeeded Lochanvali and
thereafter Kapilaksha was the king who was succeeded by Kapilbhadra and then
Jaraasari.
After Jaraasari, the last
seventeenth king was Dhoomrishi in Satyayug. There were twenty-nine kings in Treta
Yug, the second major period having its duration of 17, 28,000 years. The names
of the twenty-nine kings of Treta are as follows –
The first king in Treta was
Brahma, whose successor was Maareech and then Kashyap, who was succeeded by
Sooraj.
Thereafter Tavchhatra, succeeded
by Akshhaya were the kings; and then Aranyabha and Vishwamitra.
Mahamantra succeeded Vishwamitra
and then Chimanbhadra. Udyan was the king who succeeded Chimanbhadra.
After Bhadra Udyan, the king was
Trisankh succeeded by the famous king ‘Harishchandra’, who loved and maintained
the ‘Truth’. His son Rohitash succeeded him and then Mandhata.
The famous ‘Sagar’ followed him
and then Ashamitra. The king Bhagirath succeeded Ashamitra. Bhagirath, it is
said, pleased Lord Vishnu to release the flow of Sacred River Ganga in order to
save Sagar, his forefather from the results of the sinful deeds he committed.
The Sacred waters of Ganga appeared on the
earth owing to Bhagirath’s life long efforts by his devotion of God. And the
forefather of Ram, named Dileep, the warrior succeeded Bhagirath.
Raghu succeeded Dileep and then
Aj. Thereafter Dashrath, the father of Ram and then Ram Chandra (the King of
Ayodhya).
Ram’s son Lav succeeded him and
then Antbhan. Thereafter Kaylakhi who was succeeded by Babarvaan.
The last two kings were Sudarshan
succeeded by Agnivaran. These twenty-nine kings were on the earth in Treta.
In the next ‘Dwapar Yug (the
third major period 8, 64,000 years), nineteen kings whose names follow
hereunder ruled on the earth. The first was Indra succeeded by Chandrama and
after him the king was Poorva.
Next King was Agra and then Nirmoksha who was succeeded by
Shantanu.
Next to him were Chitra, then
Vichitra and Vyas. Their successor was Pandu and thereafter the famous warrior
Arjun.
After Arjun (one among the
Pandavas), Ahiravan Kumar and then Shantanu who was succeeded by Valivan.
Thereafter Nirvan and then Valichakshu
succeeded by the king Pareekshhat and then Janmejaya.
After nineteen kings of Dwapar
Yug, (twenty-nine of Treta and earlier seventeen kings of Satyayug), the names
of twenty kings of Kaliyug are given hereunder –
The name of the kings in Kaliyug
(the fourth major period of 4, 32,000 years) begins with Jadu (at serial No. 1)
and he was succeeded by Ajaypal and then by Mahipal.
Next king was Gangadharvasen who
was succeeded by the famous king “Veer Vikramaditya” (the Era of Vikram Samvat
began after him with his name, 57 years earlier the Christ’s Era); and then
Bhoj (in whose Darbar (the Court), the famous Sanskrit Poet, Kalidas was
amongst the chiefs of the King).
The History of India mentions the
names of Muslim Emperors after the period Bhoj. Mohammed Gori the Emperor
followed by Sultan Allauddin was among them. Next were Nasaruddeen and then
Lodha Mahmood.
After Lodha Mahmood, Bada Mahmood
was the Emperor. Next were Sher Khan Suri, then Tamoor Lung. Babar, the first
Mugal Emperor succeeded Tamoor Lung.
Babar’s son Humayoo was the
second Mugal Emperor and he was succeeded by his son, Akbar -the Great Mugal
Emperor. His son Saleemshah famous as Jahangeer (whose wife, Noorjahan accompanied
him in the court too) succeeded his father, Akbar who was succeeded by
Shahjahan.
Aurangzeb was the last Mugal Emperor (by that
time) in Kaliyug. Swami Laldas ji opined that after twenty kings and Emperors
in Kaliyug, the Advent of Buddha Nishkalank was due to take place.
Swami Laldas ji (with his title name Shri Mahamati
bestowed upon him by Shri Prannath ji, his Grand Preceptor) stated (addressing
all other associates) that the Holy Scriptures are evidence to support his
version. He said that in the next chapter, the history and the details in
respect of the creation of the world would be mentioned
Prakaran 1, Chopai 28.
CHAPTER 2. MAHAKARAN.
In this Chapter, Swami Laldas ji
attracts the attention of the mankind to know the ‘Basic Reason’ (Mahakaran)
for the creation of the Universe. He says, “I shall come to a point to mention
about our Super Eternal Abode- Paramdham, where at a particular place named
“Mool-Milava”, we all the Divine Souls – the Love Part of Sat-Chit-Anand, have
been sitting together in rows, in front of our Supreme Lord –Shri Raj Shyama
Ji. There whatsoever we have been talking about with our Lord and what he
ordered is a matter of very importance.
First of all, in the Super
Eternal Abode, where Love only exists – the structure is Love and the Divine
Souls are Love, the Supreme Lord, during the course of our lovely talks,
ordered –
According to His Divine order,
the Indestructible God – Sat – Akshhar desired to know what the Love played
between ‘Supreme Lord and His Divine Souls – the Love part’ is: and
simultaneously, we the Divine Souls desired what for the Indestructible God
creates the Universes and what is opposite to Love? The separation from the
Lord Supreme and the consequent feelings of the sorrows were not known to us.
The desires of the Indestructible God and the Divine Souls (as per the inspiration
of the Supreme Lord) are the results of the orders of the Lord Supreme – the
Super Indestructible – Aksharaateet. HE usually plays in Paramdham in this
fashion.
There is a description of three
stages in respect of the appearance of the Divine Souls and the Indestructible
God by their consciousness only (not physically or by Souls). Thus each of the
stages is concerned with a story of the creation of the Universe full of
illusions – a drama played by the participants in their roles as per the
directions of the Lord Supreme. The first drama was played in Brij between the
Divine Souls – as Gop Vadhus and the Akshhar having charged by Lord Supreme.
The second is played in ‘Raas’ (a
separate Universe after the annihilation of the first Universe of Brij-Leela)
and the present Universe is created the third time for “Jaagni Raas”. In this
Universe, the Divine Souls have been enlightened by the Divine Wisdom and they
realized their conscious presence in Paramdham. They also knew about the
falsehood of the present world, which is fully illusive.
In the first stage, Lord Krishna,
who was the Indestructible God having charged by the Lord Supreme, played
love-plays with the Divine Souls – who appeared by consciousness only as the
ladies and / or the damsels (Gop Vadhus) in Brij, having hearty love for Lord
Krishna; but they were in the dream-stage and were not knowing who Shri Krishna
was. The Love-plays lasted for 11 years and 52 days in Brij.
And thereafter, Akshhar, having charged
by Supreme Lord created Vrindavan in a new universe of Yogmaya and called upon
the Divine Souls (i.e. all the Gop Vadhus and Kumarikas). They were not
awakened exactly but knew by their consciousness – who was Shri Krishna.? Hence
they played in the same manner as they always do in their Super Eternal Abode
–Paramdham. And thus Akshhar had a chance to have full experience of the Love,
what He desired to know about before the creations of the Universes. But the
Lord Supreme drew back the force (His Power) from the inner soul of Akshhar;
hence He was stunned and got awakened in His Eternal Abode. Thus He disappeared
from the Universe of ‘Raas’. The Divine Souls were made destitute without their
Lord; hence they experienced the sorrows of the separation from their Lord.
Again the Lord Supreme made Akshhar charged to reappear in Raas. Then they all
played ‘Love’ for a long in the same Universe of Yogmaya. After ‘Raas’, Akshhar
and the Divine Souls waked up by their real consciousness and felt their real
presence in Akshhardham & Paramdham respectively.
In order to let Akshhar have the
remembrance of ‘Brij’ and ‘Raas’ (love-plays played there), the Lord Supreme
drew His Zeal - Power from the consciousness of Akshhar – the Indestructible.
‘Akshhar’ kept in His memory forever the role He played as Shri Krishna in
‘Brij’ and ‘Raas’. And thus ‘Brij-Leela’ and ‘Raas-Leela’ have been established
forever (eternally) in the heart of Akshhar – the Indestructible. Again, in
order to fulfil the remaining desire for experiencing the feeling of
forgetfulness of the selves and no- knowledge of their Lord or the Super
Eternal Abode –Paramdham, including the desire to experience the sorrows of the
separation from their Lord and the sense of the feelings of the false relations
with other entities in the world of the illusions, this universe has been
created in the dream of Akshhar. Akshhar
then appeared in His dream as Mohammed (the Divine Messenger of Khuda –the
Almighty) and after a certain period, the Divine Souls re-appeared in this
third Universe, (not physically but by consciousness only).
After ‘Raas’ in the third
creation of the Universe, Shri Krishna (Akshhar) appeared as Mohammed in Arabia
and by the order of the Supreme Lord, He had disclosed the fact of the ‘Advent
of Imam Menhdi’ as well as the ‘Day of Justice’ (Qayamat). What he spoke is
treasured in the Holy Book –Quran. The manners according to which a pious life
should be led, as described in Quran, are being followed as ‘Shariyat’ by those
who are having faith in Islam Religion.
A reference of the events of SIX
ADVENTIST-DAYS has been described in Quran, but the same is not clearly
described. The mystery is indicated by words to be interpreted correctly.
The event of the First Day is
related with Brij-Leela, when the Divine Souls played ‘Love’ with their Lord
for 11 years and 52 days. The Second Day means the ‘Love Play’ of the Divine
Souls with Lord Krishna in the everlasting night of ‘Raas’. During the
continuance of ‘Raas’, the Supreme Lord drew His Power from Shri Krishna
(Akshhar) and Shri Krishna disappeared from the Universe of Yogmaya (Vrindavan,
where ‘Raas-Leela’ was being played). This made the Gopies (Divine Souls) to
lament because of the sorrows of the separation from their Lord. But the
experience of sorrows due to illusions (Maya) was not fully felt. The desire
remained unfulfilled in the consciousness of the Divine Souls (while after
‘Raas’ they awakened and felt their conscious presence in Super Eternal Abode
–Paramdham).
Hence in order to fulfil their
remaining desire, the Supreme Lord ordered to create this Universe (third time)
in the dream of Akshhar –the Indestructible; and Shri Krishna’s consciousness
(Akshhar in His own dream) appeared in the person of Prophet Mohammed whom the
Divine Message, to be conveyed to the Divine Souls - that were yet to appear,
was disclosed by the Lord, in advance. The Holy Book, Quran contains the same
and those who follow them as ‘Shariyat’ are Muslim.
The life span of Mohammed was 63
years and this event is indicated as the Third Day, related with the Lord
Supreme –as Mohammed was HIS Divine Messenger.
The Third Day’s detailed
description is too much to be mentioned here; hence the event of the Fourth
Day, which is related with the Divine Souls’ reappearance in the Dreamy
Universe the third time, must be thought over.
After the demise of Mohammed, a
period of nine hundred nine years and three months (one fourth of a year) was
over in the Tenth Century of Hizari Era, the event of the Fourth Day happened.
In other words, when a period of
nine hundred and ninety years and nine months elapsed after Rasool (Mohammed),
the Better-Half of the Lord Supreme (Shyama ji) appeared in the person of Dhani
Shri Devchandra ji, Sadguru by Her Consciousness on the earth along with the
Divine Souls, who were the devotees having the faith related with the Divine
Wisdom disclosed by Sadguru, Dhani Shri Devchandra ji for the welfare of the
world.
In Vikram Samvat 1638, on the
Fourteenth Day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of ‘Aswin’, Shri
Devchandra ji was born in Marwar.
Umarkot is a village in Marwar
(where Akbar, the Great Mugal Emperor was also born). The parents of Shri
Devchandra ji were Shri Mattoo Mehta and Smt. Kunwari Bai.
On Shri Devchandra ji’s birth,
the citizens of the village were rejoicing and the whole world including the
abodes of Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiv (Mahesh) was filled with joy.
The event of the Advent of the
Better-Half of the Lord Supreme (Shri Devchandra ji is related with the revelation
of Divine Wisdom, meant to the welfare of the mankind of the Universe. It is
revealing the wisdom to know about Aksharaateet – the Super Indestructible,
whom the Divine Souls only bow and are prostrating (with their Souls’ love);
whereas, according to Shrimad Bhagwat, Shri Sukhdeo spoke to Pareekshat that
the worldly people worship Akshhar –The Indestructible, and beyond Him. As per
indication, vide Hindu Scripture, Shrimad Bhagwat, Skandh (Chapter) 12/ 2, Shlokas
37 & 38, the mystery about the Advent of Dhani Shri Devchandra ji and Shri
Mehraj Thakur (Mahamati Shri Prannath ji), has been revealed as follows: “The
appropriate time has come. Shantanu’s brother –Dev, too and the descendent of
the Reverend King Ikshhaku, Maru (Shri Devchandra ji and Shri Mehraj
respectively) have been living in a village, named Kalap (indicating PANNA,
located on the bank of River Kilkila). They would, on their advent on the earth
in the end of Kaliyug and in accordance with the Will of Lord Vishnu or Vasudev,
establish the faith of the Hindu religion as it was in the past.
The seeds of Satyayug (indication
of Satyayug to follow Kaliyug) are within them (Shri Devchandra ji and Shri
Mehraj ji). In the due time, these mysteries, which are called the seeds would
be revealed in the detailed description of Divine Wisdom which they would
impart to the human beings; and consequent upon the perception of the Divine
Wisdom, the Jeevashristies (the mankind as a whole) would get enlightened to
possess the eternal salvation in one of the hearts of the Indestructible God-
Akshhar.
All the Hindus’, Islam’s and
other religious books, known as Ved & Qateb have evidences in respect of
the Advent of these two personalities. The other sub-scriptures like Upanishads
and Shrimad Bhagwat indicate in respect of the prediction about their
appearance and the acts of kindness for the welfare of the mankind.
From the date of the creation of
the world a good number of religions have been formed and each of the holy
books of these religions there are indications about the appearance of Shri
Devchandra ji and Shri Mehraj ji. These evidences give a rise to have a faith in
them.
Despite indications in various
religious books about the appearance of these two personalities, the people of
the different faiths believe in the interpretation according to their own
perception; but when all these kinds of perception are read together, the true
text with the context leads to perceive the Divine Wisdom.
In Quran –the Islamic religious
Holy Book, a reference of one hundred twenty years during which the Divine
Souls would have appeared by their consciousness on the earth has been quoted
and the same infers the events of the Fourth Day (the Advent of Shri Devchandra
ji), the Fifth Day (the Advent of Shri Mehraj Thakur, Shri Prannath ji) and the
Sixth Day (a period of ten years ended 1711 A.D., during which the Divine Souls
(Brahmashristies) got themselves enlightened with the Divine Wisdom (Tartam
Jnyan). The period of 120 years commenced from the birth date of Shri
Devchandra ji, i.e. 1581 A.D. to 1701 A.D.
The Divine Wisdom revealed the ‘Reality’
about the Supreme Lord’s Super Eternal Abode –Paramdham, where the Divine Souls
(Brahmashristies) have been playing the extreme Love with their Lord and the
strange perception by the human beings compelled them to prostrate at the Lotus
Feet of the Lord Supreme. The Indestructible God- Akshhar Bhagwan even had no
perception about the ‘Love’ between the Lord Supreme and the Divine Souls, but
the Divine Wisdom revealed the same to the whole world.
The human beings of the dream
world being in the illusions of Maya could not perceive a little about the
Super Eternal Abode, but the perception of Divine Wisdom led them to conceive
the Truth.
Four kinds of ‘Heavens’ are
described in Quran. These are named as (1) Nasoot, (2) Malqoot, (3) Zabroot and
(4) Lahoot. The Nasoot is covering the earth –the dream world. Malqoot is Baikunth,
the Abode of Lord Vishnu, which is also perishable in Mahapralay (the ultimate
annihilation) when the sleep of Akshhar would be over. When the ‘Indestructible
God- Akshhar awakens from His dream, He returns by His consciousness in His
Eternal Abode named Akshhardham – the Zabroot. Beyond Akshhardham, the Super
Eternal Abode of the Lord Supreme- Paramdham is called ‘Lahoot’ – the Fourth
Heaven from where the Better-Half of the Lord Supreme, Shyama ji – Rooh Allah
descended by consciousness only in the same period. Shri Devchandra ji’s Divine
Message was openly conveyed to all mankind, and thereafter to the Trio-Gods –
Brahma, Vishnu & Mahesh and the creatures in the dream of the
Indestructible God. This was made well known to all the Divine Souls and other
human beings.
Shri Laldas ji said that the
Biography of Shri Devchandra ji has been narrated in the following verses in
this book “Shri Beetak” (composed by him in Hindustani language).
When Shri Devchandra ji was just
a child of eleven years, he began to think who was HE and where is the Abode of
His Soul? WHO is the Master of His Soul?
Shri Devchandra ji wandered in
the surrounding villages of Umarkot and enquired from every body, “Where dwells
the God? And who created the Universe?”
He was told by many learned
persons that God is Omnipresent. HE pervades in each particle of the matters of
the Universe. And Shri Devchandra ji learnt that HE was very near. He concluded
that it was the Truth.
At Umarkot near His home, there
was a temple of Pingal Shyam (Shri Krishna) where Shri
Devchandra ji used to go and sit down before the idol of Shri Krishna in the
temple to pray. He used to perform circumambulation in the temple
(Pradakshhna).
Daily for cleaning teeth and then
taking bath etc. in routine, Shri Devchandra ji used to go out of his home with
a small metal pot; and while returning to home, he used to go to the temple
undoubtedly without fail.
In temple, he used to pass a
quarter day, nearly three hours in making circumambulations and then sitting
before the idol of Shri Krishna-Shyam ji in order to have a face to face
meeting with His Lord.
Umarkot is situated in Sindh (now
Pakistan)
where lies the Maru desert having insufficient sources of water. Hence during
those days, saints or hermits seldom reached there.
Once in his childhood, Shri
Devchandra ji arrived at Cutch with Mattoo Mehta, his father. He found there a
good number of temples and the monks & saints of the various sects in each
of the temples. He met them also with his father.
On returning to home from Cutch,
Shri Devchandra ji made up in his mind to go to Cutch again and have a search
to find the Lord with the help of some adept monk or preceptor, whosoever be
available in any of the temples there.
As such he became indifferent
from home and had a little concern with His parents or others nearby.
To divert His mind from the
delirious mind, every body made best of one’s efforts, but failed.
Shri Devchandra ji was always
thinking and awaiting a chance to leave for some place out of the hometown in
order to have a thorough search of a Grand Preceptor.
He enquired from every body the
way leading to Cutch. He came to know that a Vazir (Minister) of the Ruler of
Umarkot scheduled to go to Cutch.
The minister had a programme to
go to Cutch with a troop of 200 soldiers and a carriage to reach there at the
earliest in connection with performing a ritual custom of marriage ceremony of the
Kin of the Ruler.
Shri Devchandra ji went to see
the Minister and he disclosed his anxiety to accompany him to reach Cutch.
The Minister enquired if any
horse or camel he possessed to perform the journey as without any animal for
riding, it was not possible to accompany the party.
Shri Devchandra ji told the
Minister that he would go there on foot; but the Minister refused and warned
him not to accompany.
Shri Devchandra ji made up to go
behind the party; and he thought that it was useless to consult or inform the
Minister.
Very immediately he arrived at
home and collected the utensils required for cooking as well as other materials
including the pot etc. for the drinking water.
He kept a small weapon inside his
dress and some coins as the travelling expenses. He was ready to move.
After the meal, taken by him in
small quantity as sacred ablation of God (His Lord, whom He loved by heart), he
took rest for a short while. When one and a half hour’s period was due to the
Sun setting, the Minister of Umarkot started his journey with the troop. Shri
Devchandra ji was still thinking to leave the home at a suitable time.
In making efforts to tie the
baggage around His waist, He passed some time. The Minister already started
with the troop. Shri Devchandra ji, thereafter, followed them.
Although Shri Devchandra ji was
walking as fast as possible on foot, as He was very hopeful to reach nearer the
party; yet it was not possible, because he was not having any means of conveyance
(horse).
Still, Shri Devchandra ji
continued his journey in the desert, where he was alone and none was there on
the path to talk with. After some time the daylight disappeared and it was
total darkness of night. (But the Almighty was with Him).
Because of strong and constant
flow of wind, the footprints on the sandy path were disturbed making it
difficult for Him to find a right path in the desert. Also during the night,
there was a fear of the thieves, who could endanger the life of one or two
travelers in the silence of the night of that place.
The strong storm like a flow of
the wind was making a heap of the sand particles at one place and very soon
simultaneous heap was formed at another place eliminating the previous one.
Shri Devchandra ji’s age at that
time was equal to that of a child. He had a fear due to night in the desert. He
felt pain in His belly. He was not sure where the end of the desert was &
which was the right path to go.
Remembering His Lord to help Him,
He moved on and on. All of a sudden a person was seen. Shri Devchandra ji was
very much afraid of Him.
He thought that the stranger was
a thief who would kill Him. There was no other way or place to escape there. He
forgot the path and was very much nervous.
The stranger approached Him. Shri
Devchandra ji had a great fear; but the stranger spoke to Him.
The stranger was looking like a
soldier, having the bearded look, a spear in hand and a sword in the waist.
The soldier asked Him to hand
over the sword, which Shri Devchandra ji hanged in His waist. He was stunned to
hear His command and very much afraid of the soldier’s voice.
He at once handed over the sword
to the stranger (His Lord, who was in the guise of Soldier). Then the soldier
asked Him to untie the bag from the waist. Shri Devchandra ji knew HE would
demand the same.
Shri Devchandra ji was having the
fear of being killed while the soldier asked Him to lie down on a bed sheet
spread by him on the ground. Shri Devchandra ji began to tremble due to fear.
When Shri Devchandra ji lay down,
the soldier put his leg on one of the thighs’ joint near loin. He had the spear
in His hand. He asked –
He inquired, “If the stomach ach was
reduced as a result of His burden on one of the thighs?” Shri Devchandra ji
told Him that it was still a little in some other part of the abdomen (and not
in the whole).
The soldier then put leg on the
next thigh-root and with the help of the spear which he caught keeping it
rested on the ground; he put the burden of His body on the thigh-root of Shri
Devchandra ji, who was lying on the ground.
Again He asked Shri Devchandra ji
if he had any more pain in the stomach; Shri Devchandra ji was then all right
and He stood up then and there.
The soldier picked up the bed
sheet from the ground and tied it around His waist. He took the bag and baggage
of Shri Devchandra ji and carried the same on His back. Shri Devchandra ji
concluded that the soldier would not kill Him.
The next thought, Shri Devchandra
ji had, was that the soldier would keep Him as a slave at His house.
Shri Devchandra ji preferred to
become His slave, instead. They proceeded with a fast speed. The soldier
enquired about the relations if any he had at Cutch and also enquired about the
worldly affairs. He asked about the native place also.
The soldier asked the name of His
mother and those of the other members of the family. The Devchandra ji
furnished all the details and continued the journey.
Shri Devchandra ji told that he
belonged to Umarkot and His father- Mattoo Mehta was a businessman.
The inquiry about the environment
of the State, name of the ruler and his behaviour with the citizens of the town
was also made by the soldier.
The inquiry about the behaviour
of the Ministers of the State with the public and other types of the talk were
also held in the way.
They moved along while talking
the whole night. At dawn they reached near the place where the Minister and the
troop had their night halt.
The soldier stopped and handed
over the bag etc. to Shri Devchandra ji.
He also returned the sword to
Shri Devchandra ji and pointed out to show the place where the Minister had his
halt. Shri Devchandra ji then turned His face to look at the soldier, He was
not there. Shri Devchandra ji was surprised to know –who helped Him?
When Shri Devchandra ji did not
find anybody, He was sure that His Lord helped and accompanied Him, but alas!
He could not recognize Him. Thus He repented for His mistake of ignoring His
Lord.
Shri Devchandra ji conducted
introspection and He consoled Himself with an affirmation that His Lord had
been always with Him to save from the danger. In future also during disaster of
any sort, the Lord would provide protection.
Shri Devchandra ji was then free
from all worries as His Lord was always with Him, whom He would find out with
His efforts as He would not go anywhere leaving Him.
Then He moved towards the
Minister. The Minister saw Him attentively & enquired, “Who was He?” Shri
Devchandra ji disclosed His name.
The troop-men led Shri Devchandra
ji before their Head, who surprisingly asked how He could meet them?
How he could find the path during
the darkness of the night without any means of conveyance or any animal to
ride? Shri Devchandra ji replied that He moved as fast as the wind.
He said that He followed them and
walked on foot having trodden the footprints without any means.
They were surprised with the
reply of Shri Devchandra ji. The Minister asked Him to relax and to free Him
from the burden of bags and baggage and take rest for a while. The Minister’s
men were busy in the preparation of the camps to stay and to ignite fire for
cooking.
The Minister was ‘Kayashtha’ by
caste (and Shri Devchandra ji was also of his caste). He requested Shri
Devchandra ji to take the meal with him or take the necessary commodities from
him and cook for self.
Shri Devchandra ji replied to the
Minister that he would cook himself.
The Minister again requested to
take the flour etc. from his store, but Shri Devchandra ji expressed that he
brought with Him from home all and every thing to cook His meal.
The Minister was unhappy with the
denial of Shri Devchandra ji for not accepting the offer of the cooking
commodities. He pointed out that they two were of the same caste (Kayashtha);
hence He should honour the custom of the caste and accept the offer.
Shri Devchandra ji then accepted
his request and cooked the meal with the things obtained from the Minister’s
store. Shri Devchandra ji memorized by His deep contemplation the Personality
met Him in the guise of the Soldier and offered oblation from the food he
cooked there.
Shri Devchandra ji took the rest
after the meal and got prepared thereafter to proceed further along with the
Minister who was also ready.
The Minister enquired from his men as to how
many of them were to ride on the camels.
They replied to the Minister that
they were four persons to ride on the camels. The Minister asked them to
accommodate Shri Devchandra ji as the fifth rider along with them.
Thus Shri Devchandra ji
accompanied the marriage party and arrived at Cutch. The Minister and his
company proceeded further to reach their destination. Shri Devchandra ji
started His search for which purpose he arrived there.
Swami Laldas ji says that this is
the description of Shri Devchandra ji. In the next Chapter, the further
description of the search efforts made by Shri Devchandra ji in Cutch would be
detailed.
Prakaran – 2 Chopai – 122
CHAPTER 3 – KUTCH
MEIN KHOJ.
Swami Laldas ji said that Shri
Devchandra ji arrived at Cutch and began his search movement; the same is
described in this Chapter.
Shri Devchandra ji reached at a temple
in search of a Preceptor as per His motto. He asked about the God from the monk
of the temple. The monk told Him that the Idol of the God was God in real to
him.
Although Shri Devchandra ji was
not satisfied with the statement of the monk, yet he stayed there for a few
days and then left for some other place in search of the ‘Truth’.
There were some hermits in the
group at one place, where Shri Devchandra ji reached. The group was in the
guise of the emancipators as they sacrificed every thing of the world; hence,
as they appeared, they were adorable by the general public.
Among them, Shri Devchandra ji
continued his search of the ‘Truth’. They said, “We know all about God; Go on
reciting the reverential names or a phrase (Idiom –mantra), which you must
believe in”.
These
Sanyasi (hermits) talked about Dattatrey (a Deity) and Shri Devchandra ji after
being initiated by them accepted their discipleship but their preaching could
not fill His heart with the ‘Truth’.
After a few days’ stay with the
hermits, he proceeded to some other place where special type of sages having
their ears incised (which was a fashion among that special type of the sages)
were living.
These sages having incised ears
were called the favourite preceptors of the Ruler of Cutch and they had a good
number of disciples and were also adored by the citizens of Cutch. Shri
Devchandra ji reached them.
Many days he spent there but he
could not get satisfied with their preaching. They could not talk about the ‘Truth’,
which Shri Devchandra asked of them.
Thereafter he stayed with Vairagi
Kapadi sages for a few days. He found the sages to be lustful and the slave of
their thoughts; hence Shri Devchandra ji did not find any thing related with
the ‘Truth’, which He was searching for in Cutch.
He also stayed in a mosque and
contacted the Muslim adept (Mulla) there for a couple of days. He saw that
Muslim including their Chief in the mosque had been following ‘Shariyat’
(rites) as taught to them by the elders for a Muslim was known only by the
ritual customs. Except their ritual customs, which is prescribed in Quran (as ‘Shariyat’),
Shri Devchandra ji did not find any thing related with the ‘Truth’.
Then He met those persons, who
appeared by their garb to be very learned Brahmins and also those, that were
non-Brahmins. Still unsatisfied with His search-campaign, He proceeded further.
Roaming about hither and thither,
he arrived at Bhoj, the Capital City of Cutch, where a famous learned person
named ‘Haridas’ was adorable to his many disciples. Shri Devchandra ji stayed
there. Haridas was the follower of Radhavallabh sect.
Haridas ji adored Shri Krishna
(Of the age of His Childhood) and he, himself, was behaving (during the course
of his worship) as a lady behaves, for the sake of consoling his soul.
Shri Devchandra ji saw him
devoted to Shri Krishna and worshipping His Lord lovingly and undoubtedly with
his heart regularly without fail.
Shri Devchandra ji observed that
during the summer season, Haridas managed to upkeep the sacred place where the
Idol of the Lord was established, cool by all means.
And during the winter season, the
surroundings of the Idol of his Lord were kept warmed and for that purpose, all
the necessary things were kept ready for the daily use during the course of
worship.
Haridas was habitual to take baths
two to four times daily without having any difference between winter and summer
seasons.
Shri Devchandra ji very curiously
marked that Haridas ji was particular in making the cleanliness and purity and
punctual in taking baths frequently. It was peculiar and not followed by
others.
Here Shri Devchandra ji was
satisfied with the procedure of worship being performed by Haridas ji lovingly.
He thought –
“I should please Haridas with my
honest service and my devotion for being awarded by him with the valuable
preaching.” Therefore, He dedicated himself to please Haridas with His loving
service. He always remained there present for the service what He deemed proper
and necessary.
Daily He listened to the
preaching of Haridas for a long time. Meanwhile, Shri Devchandra ji’s father,
Mattoo Mehta came to know the whereabouts of his son, hence he arrived there.
Mattoo Mehta persuaded his son to
leave there for his home (at Umarkot) but all was in vain. Shri Devchandra ji
did not agree with His father, who became hopeless.
Shri Devchandra ji had no concern
with the worldly affairs. Despite many efforts by His father, He was not
attracted to the worldly illusions and He was unhappy with His father’s
persuasion.
He was regular in the service of
Haridas by all means – mentally, by speech and by actions. He undoubtedly
performed services for the consolation of His Soul.
With the lovely services of Shri
Devchandra ji, Haridas ji was very much impressive. He decided to initiate Him
with the sacred words (religious mantras to recite). A day was, thus selected
for this purpose by Haridas ji.
Simultaneously, Mattoo Mehta
decided to push up his son to enter into the worldly affection, in order to
divert His mind, so that Shri Devchandra ji might obey him and go back to
Umarkot (home) or live with him there.
Accordingly, he settled marriage
of Shri Devchandra ji to be performed (celebrated) the same selected day;
Haridas ji decided to deliver the mantra (sacred words) to initiate and make
Him his disciple.
As per custom of Radhavallabh
sect, one who was to be initiated had to remove one’s hair of the head and face
to look like a sage. Shri Devchandra ji was prepared for it.
Haridas ji inquired on that
particular day (fixed for the purpose) if He was ready; if so, he must have His
head clean-shaved to wear a look like that of a sage.
Shri Devchandra ji at once obeyed
and came back duly shaved His head and face. He sat near Haridas ji. Haridas ji
again asked if He, earlier, accepted discipleship and got initiated by any
other preceptor(s). Shri Devchandra ji revealed that He accepted the
discipleship of a Sanyasi –a hermit earlier.
Haridas ji advised Shri
Devchandra ji to get rid of the earlier initiation by writing those sacred
words (mantra) spoken to Him by the former preceptor on a piece of paper and
keeping that inside a Roti (bread), return the same to any hermit (Sanyasi).
At this instance, Shri Devchandra
ji spoke, “What you have told me to do would not be fruitful. In case, the
‘words’ given to me earlier by the Sanyasi have more power, the same would not
be turned to be ‘null and void’ by doing any of such type of efforts”.
“Should your sacred words be more
forceful, the existence of any other words given to me earlier by any person
would be meaningless? Of course, what did you tell me to do would be liable to
be followed by those who are interested in worldly affairs and not by me?”
Haridas ji was very happy to know
the reasoning presented by Shri Devchandra ji. He delivered the ‘Sacred names’
(mantra) to Shri Devchandra ji and asked Him to recite the same in front of the
Idol of Shri Krishna having a constant gaze on it.
Haridas ji spoke the words, ‘Bhaj
man Shri Vrindavan, Kunj Bihari Nit Vilas’ (which means, ‘Shri Krishna has been
playing continuously in the gardens of Vrindavan, whom one should remember
always with the alert mind). He continued, “Keep these words in your heart and
remember with all belief.”
He also advised to mingle self by
Soul to be one of the wives of Shri Krishna while reciting these words. Then
Shri Devchandra ji was permitted to go to home. Mattoo Mehta was astonished to
see Him clean shaved with no hair on His head and face. He looked attired like
a sage.
Mattoo Mehta fixed that very day
to celebrate the marriage of his son; he spoke, “You should have dressed well
and looked handsome; instead, what have you done – just adversely?”
Mattoo Mehta felt a lot of agony.
He scolded his son for His being indifferent. He showed his anger and produced
a fearful atmosphere to influence his son. Shri Devchandra ji spoke, “What do
you want today from me?”
He continued, “I have already
married with whom I wanted (My Lord Krishna). You think that I should get
involved in worldly affairs; but it would be never possible for me. I have
already expressed a number of times and also refused to celebrate the marriage ceremony.”
Anyhow Mattoo Mehta married his
son with a beautiful girl (named Leel Bai), but Shri Devchandra ji did not
agree with any body at home to lead a happy married life. Instead, He continued
to do according to Haridas’ instructions in performing worship in the temple. Its
location was in the residence of Haridas ji.
Shri Devchandra ji usually spent
first half of the night (two quarters upto mid of the night) and listened to
the preaching of Haridas, daily. In this way he had been spending his days.
Not only this, spending the
period of three hours, i.e. a quarter of the night, daily after 3 O’clock, a
quarter to dawn, he again reached the temple at Haridas’ residence and walked
round the temple in circumambulation daily without taking a proper rest.
Once Shri Haridas ji got up
earlier before dawn for attending to the nature’s call, he found Shri Devchandra
ji busy in circumambulation in the temple; hence asked him, “Who are you &
what for you came?”
He continued, “One quarter of the
night still remains, but you came here behind the house; who are you?”
Again Haridas ji asked, “Who are
you?” Shri Devchandra ji told, “I have
come here.”
Haridas ji heard the voice and
knew that it was Shri Devchandra ji; then he asked- “Come in. Why have you come
at this time?”
Shri Devchandra ji replied,
“Please listen to me. I could not ascertain the correct time. I thought that
the day was dawning.”
Shri Devchandra ji was not
interested to let any body know about his manners of Service and the
Worshipping, as the same he was performing for consoling His Soul and for
keeping the mind busy.
Haridas ji learnt that Shri
Devchandra ji was regular in making circumambulation around the temple during
the night, daily. He was attending during the daytime also to perform the
Service to the best of His satisfaction, as adoration of the Idol.
One day Haridas was performing
adoration carefully, while Shri Devchandra ji was also sitting there.
Shri Devchandra ji saw that some
people brought a person to Haridas ji. A poisonous scorpion hurt that person
and due to extreme pain, the person was almost dead.
The attendants requested Haridas
ji to help and save the person who was hurt by the scorpion.
When Haridas ji came out of his
home, he saw that dying man. He uttered some sacred sorcery words and touched
his moustache and the scorpion-hurt person began to recover.
Again, Haridas ji repeated the
same and the person suffering from the pain was made free from the danger.
Haridas ji repeated the same
thrice and there was no sign of poison in the patient’s body. He was recovered
fully and was all right. He stood up and prostrated and expressed his hearty
obligation.
All those who brought the dying
person, also bowed and praised Haridas ji for his welfare service to the
mankind. They said, “You have saved the patient from the death point. You are
most competent to do the best with your sorcery.”
Haridas ji told Shri Devchandra
ji, “The sacred sorcery words, I used, have great power, hence you must learn
the same;
“If I did not save him for a few
minutes, he could have died: but with the help of the sorcery, I could save
him. These sacred sorcery words are meant to save life of others.”
Shri Devchandra ji spoke, “The
Sacred words already given by you have been learnt and kept in the heart for
the whole life.
“I know: the sacred words in my
heart are enough to get complete relief from the death and re-birth circle in
the world. The same is better than sorcery words, which may be meant to give
relief from the hurt of say, lakhs of scorpions.
“How any other words can find
place in the heart, where the most enchanting sacred words in respect of the
reverential name of the Lord have already occupied.” Haridas ji was very happy
and he appreciated the version of Shri Devchandra ji.
He spoke- “O (Shri) Devchandra
(ji)! I have no such precognition in my mind. What you have spoken is beyond my
thoughts.”
There are so many instances,
which happened at Bhojnagar. Shri Devchandra ji continued his worship in His
own way, which was not known to any body.
One day, again, Haridas ji saw
from the window of his home that Shri Devchandra ji was busy in circumambulation.
Haridas ji called Shri Devchandra to meet him at the upper floor of the house.
He spoke, “I understood that you
had come in the night some days ago by mistake forgetting the time, but now I
find that you always come earlier than the dawn in the darkness of the night. I
am ashamed; I can not bear your hard services.”
“What is in your mind? What do
you want from me? Please tell me, I shall give you the same.”
Haridas ji disclosed, “I shall
give you the Idol; you may then worship at your residence and be happy.”
Shri Devchandra ji replied, “I am
prepared to obey you. I shall do the same as you like.”
Swami Laldas ji said, “The
description of the days Shri Devchandra ji spent at Bhojnagar has been narrated
in this chapter. Hereafter what efforts were made by Shri Devchandra ji to know
His Lord and the relation with ‘Him’ would be described in the next chapter.”
Prakaran
3, Chopai 192.
CHAPTER 4 – SHRI DEVCHANDRA
SWAROOP PEHCHAN.
Shri Devchandra ji was told to
have the Idol of Shri Krishna for His worship at His residence. Haridas ji
fixed a day suitable for this.
On that very day – fixed by him
to hand over the Idol, Haridas ji did not find in the morning the Idol at the
place of the worship in the temple, He began to make a thorough search for it.
He did find the idol neither on
the royal throne nor on the bedstead. Haridas ji became very nervous.
He enquired every body at his
residence if somebody happened to come there. Every body replied to him that no
one could dare arrive there.
Haridas ji was surprised who hid
the Idol of Shri Krishna (of the age of HIS childhood). He adored the next Idol
of Shri Krishna (of adolescence age) – Banke Bihari. He again and again
enquired every body in respect of the missing Idol. He got tired at last.
At the promised time, Shri
Devchandra ji arrived from His home and on hearing –what happened, He was also
uneasy.
He talked about the topic and
told Haridas ji, not to worry for it. He spoke, “It may be, I have committed
some thing wrong.
“You decided to hand over the
Idol to me, but I am deprived of the worship, hence I should repent for not
having it.”
Haridas ji was very much
perturbed; hence he remained on the hunger strike that day. He spoke, “Unless I
find the Idol, I shall not eat anything. I shall be happy when I find and see
that ‘Bal-Bhog’ – the morning offerings of sweets etc. were presented to Bal
Mukund daily.”
But the Idol was not found on the
throne, hence Bal-Bhog as well as the sacred offerings of Raj-Bhog was
presented to Banke Bihari (adolescent Shri Krishna) whom Raj Bhog was daily
offered at the lunchtime. Haridas ji asked others at his residence to take
their meal.
But all the elder members of his
family as well as Shri Devchandra ji observed fast the whole day along with
Shri Haridas ji.
No body at Haridas’ home took
meal the whole day. Haridas ji was very much uneasy mentally. He was sitting
there quietly.
Haridas ji did not move from his
place the whole day and upto the midnight. Coincidentally, he happened to feel
sleep while he was sitting.
During the short sleep, Haridas
ji saw a dream that Bal Mukund was standing before him in person. He in the
dream asked, “Where have you gone? I have been busy in searching you everywhere
having a great mental torture.”
Shri Krishna ji (Bal Mukund)
replied –“I am there on the throne.”
Haridas ji again asked – “Why I could not see you there?” Shri Krishna
ji explained – “You decided to hand over the Idol to Shri Devchandra ji, hence
I was out of your sight (you could not see me).
“You could not recognize Shri
Devchandra ji, but I know. I can not bear His hard services nor do I want to be
obliged to Him.
“Please do not hand over the Idol
to Shri Devchandra ji. If He gets unhappy, please give Him the ‘apron’ and
other clothes you put over my idol.”
Haridas ji again asked, “Where
are You My Lord!” Shri Krishna said, “I have been there at my seat.” Haridas ji
awoke at once and got up haphazardly.
As he entered the place of
worship, he found the Idol of Bal Mukund at the throne. He prostrated again and
again having his heart filled with joy.
Haridas ji went out of the temple
to see Shri Devchandra ji and to tell Him about the availability of the Idol on
the throne. He found Shri Devchandra ji in the way in the market.
Haridas ji put his head on the
feet of Shri Devchandra ji. Shri Devchandra ji caught Haridas by his sides and
made him standing then enquired, “Haridas ji! What are you doing by touching my
feet?”
Haridas ji spoke, “O Devchandra
ji! What can I tell you? I could not recognize you till now:
“For years together, I have been
worshipping the Idol of ‘Bal Mukund’, but never could I see Him in person. But
‘Bal Mukund’ appeared to me in person and He told me every thing about you in
details.
“I am told that I am mistaking if
I could not recognize you.
“The Lord – ‘Bal Mukund’ also
told me not to give you the Idol for worship. Of course, you can have His
clothes instead of the Idol.”
Shri Devchandra ji enquired,
“Have you seen ‘Bal Mukund’?” Haridas ji replied, “Come on with me I shall show
you.”
They both proceeded to Haridas’
home talking cheerfully. On reaching, they were very much rejoicing.
They visited the throne and
watched the Idol of ‘Bal Mukund’ there. Then they accepted the sacred
Food-offerings as ’oblation'. All others of the family at home also took their
food. By that time, it was morning.
At Bhojnagar so many events took
place –one of them has been described, says Swami Laldas ji. This was of a
great importance.
Haridas ji handed over the Apron
of Adolescent Shri Krishna’s Idol to Shri Devchandra ji. He accepted the same
respectfully and came to His home.
At His home, Shri Devchandra ji
selected one place for worship. There He kept the throne and the sacred Apron
along with other necessary things like the silver utensils etc.
He started worshipping whole
heartily. He himself started cooking in order to offer the pious things cooked
by Him to His Lord.
He used to fetch water from the
well very cautiously avoiding the shadow of any others; otherwise he would
bring the same again.
Very carefully He used to collect
the necessary things and then cook those things which he used to decide after
profound thinking and thus He was busy in maintaining the meditation.
For the performance of the
adoration, so many commodities like rice, ghee (country-butter), sugar, mug
(green pulse) etc. were kept separately with the utmost care. The ordinary
things were cooked self for Him.
He was much cautious in the
preparation of the sacred food for offering to His Lord; He cooked whatsoever
was required to keep His body alive, without any special substances.
When the other people saw Shri
Devchandra ji working hard to prepare sacred food in the kitchen, they asked
Leel Bai (Shri Devchandra ji’s wife), “What type of lady are you – at home? In
your presence, your husband cooks himself.
“Why do you not cook yourself?
Why do you not bring water? Why do you not clean the kitchen after cooking?
This all is required to be done by you as service to please your husband.”
Then Leel Bai requested Shri
Devchandra ji to let her do all kinds of homework. She said, “Everybody taunts
me, so I feel ashamed; hence now I shall do the same to avoid other’s
taunting.”
Shri Devchandra ji uttered, “It
is not possible for you to do this all. Sometimes you might feel uneasy while
bringing water.
“May be, you feel otherwise while
doing some other things as you have not known about my Lord’s service. It is
not so easy to follow me and do, as I like.
“I shall not permit you to do any
thing. I love my Lord hence I shall do every thing to please HIM with my honest
service. If you do on my behalf, I fear, lest my love to my Lord differ. It is
my honest service due to which I meditate and experience HIS Love.”
Shri Devchandra ji did not allow
His wife to do any thing as He himself took interest in His adoring services,
with His hearty devotion to His Lord. He always remained busy in performing
adoration and deep meditation.
Once during the course of
meditation, He saw a new thing. He thought as if He reached Brij and approached
the house of Nand (Shri Krishna’s parent).
He saw Ayee ji, the mother of
Shri Krishna, who was sitting on a whatnot and was busy in getting the milk
heated up with the help of her attendants.
Shri Devchandra ji, while deeply
meditating found that He was standing at the threshold of the yard where Ayee
ji was sitting. She spoke:
“O Devchandra (ji)! I am very
much pleased to see you, please come in.” She also asked Him to take meal, but
Shri Devchandra ji enquired, “Where is Shri Krishna ji?”
Shri Devchandra ji continued,
“Where is Shri Krishna ji? I want to meet Him.” He was told that Shri Krishna
ji went to forest to tend the herd of the cows. He expressed to go to the forest
to meet Shri Krishna.
Ayee ji managed to give sweets to
Shri Devchandra ji and told Him, “Go to the forest and meet Shri Krishna. The
sweets will be taken by both of you together in the forest.”
Shri Devchandra ji proceeded to
forest to meet Shri Krishna ji where, in the jungle, He saw the mates of Shri
Krishna ji playing there. Shri Devchandra ji asked one of them, “Where is Shri
Krishna ji?”
The boys, who were playing in
different groups enquired, “Many of us are called Shri Krishna, whom of them
you want to meet?” Shri Devchandra ji clarified- “The son of Ayee ji.”
One of the boys said, “You want
to see Shri Krishna ji the son of Ayee ji (Mother Aside ji); He is there in
that particular group, playing with them.”
Shri Devchandra ji reached there
where the boys pointed out. Shri Krishna ji saw Shri Devchandra ji and He stood
up at His place.
Shri Krishna ji called Shri
Devchandra ji to approach nearer to Him and seated Him close to Him. They began
to talk having love in their hearts.
The companions of Shri Krishna
cooked there a type of meal duly boiled and they were denaturing it by
spreading it on a piece of the cloth-fold.
Shri Devchandra ji put forward the
handkerchief in which He was keeping the sweets brought with Him from Ayee ji,
in order to distribute the same amongst the boys - companions.
Shri Krishna ji asked the
companions to distribute the sweets among themselves and they gave two shares
to Shri Krishna ji.
The boys also distributed the
other things and Shri Devchandra ji was given His share. Shri Krishna ji asked
Shri Devchandra ji to eat the same. At the same moment, Shri Devchandra ji
discontinued the sweet deep meditation and had the sense of His being awakened.
He then thought that whom He met
while meditating, must be His husband (Soul’s relation) and He decided to have
HIM in the remembrance.
Having HIS (the Lord’s) image in
His mind, Shri Devchandra ji used to offer what He cooked and He remembered the
event of Brij.
For many days He kept the event
in His remembrance. At Bhojnagar, Shri Devchandra ji happened to partake in
many love-plays with His Lord – that can not be detailed here, says Swami
Laldas ji.
Swami Laldas ji while concluding
the chapter says, “The events in respect of Shri Devchandra ji have been
described and one should know about the Lordship of Shri Devchandra ji by these
few events.
Prakaran
4, Chopai 254.
CHAPTER 5 – NAVTANPURI LEELA.
From Bhojnagar (Cutch), Shri
Devchandra ji arrived at Hallardesh (now Saurastra in Gujarat at Jamnagar (Navtanpuri),
where many of His caste fellows were already living.
His parents also accompanied Him.
At Jamnagar,
the most of the citizens were the followers of Vallabha (Vaishnava) faith, a
sect of Hindus. Shri Devchandra ji had long discussion with many of them and
they found Him to be more learned than they were; hence many of them were
jealous.
In a temple of Shyam ji (Shri
Krishna) Shri Kanh ji Bhatt a learned pundit of that time, was regularly
preaching in respect of Shrimad Bhagwat, a Hindu scripture, containing
description of the biography of Shri Krishna and many other deities. Shri
Devchandra ji became a regular attendant amongst other Hindu-Vaishanava who
never coincided with Shri Devchandra ji.
Shri Devchandra ji took keen
interest in listening to Bhatt’s preaching and preferred it to His meal. First,
He fed His soul with spiritual preaching of Kanh ji Bhatt, and then He used to
take meal to satisfy the body’s requirement.
Shri Devchandra ji never minded
to listen to the verses (Sanskrit Shlokas) spoken by Shri Kanh ji Bhatt, but,
in case, Kanh ji Bhatt did not wait for His arrival and started the preaching,
Shri Devchandra ji requested him to repeat the same –what He missed to listen
to due to His late attendance.
As such, Shri Kanh ji Bhatt
understood that Shri Devchandra ji was the only fellow who was a keen listener;
hence he kept in his mind to start his preaching only after the arrival of Shri
Devchandra ji.
Among the attendants, there were
many rich men and businessmen of Jamnagar
City, hence they used to
discuss with Kanh ji Bhatt; they did not like him to wait for Shri Devchandra
ji.
One day they asked Bhatt, “What
type of earning you have from Shri Devchandra ji, as you do not start, unless
He comes here.
Kanh ji Bhatt said, “I have no
interest with any body nor I hope to receive any thing from any of you. I do
read the Holy scripture sitting in front of the Lord Shri Krishna (His Idol) in
order to satisfy the appetite of my Soul. Definitely I found that Shri
Devchandra ji is an important figure to adhere to what I speak and preach;
hence I wait for Him.
“No doubt, I receive money for my
livelihood from you all –who are rich. What can I get from Shri Devchandra (ji)
a poor fellow? But you never asked me to repeat, as you never paid proper
attention to the preaching. I found that Shri Devchandra ji has been adhering
to closely.
“Whenever any day He becomes late
and I start and complete the programme, He often comes to my home and request
to open the Book and read it and explain what He could not listen to earlier.
“It is why I always wait for Him
and start my preaching when He has come. I do not read Shrimad Bhagwat with the
intention to earn my livelihood; I do not hope any thing for this.”
On Bhatt’s reply, all were silent
and did not speak at all. After the programme of Bhatt’s preaching, they
returned to their homes with a sense of unhappiness.
Instead of conceiving the concept
of the text, Shri Bhatt ji read from Shrimad Bhagwat, the other audiences were
proud of their exterior learning and were anxious to find a little type of
faulty behaviour or any sort of weakness of Shri Devchandra ji. Then they used
to have aimless discussion with Kanh ji Bhatt as well as with Shri Devchandra
ji.
Shri Devchandra ji was regular to
feed His Soul first with the Lord’s legendary biography and then to take meal
to satisfy body’s requirement of the food. As such, on every twelfth lunar day
(twice a month), because Bhatt did not use to read the Holy Book, Shri
Devchandra ji observed fast by avoiding meal as that day His Soul was forced to
remain starving.
According to Shri Devchandra ji,
the physical body is a container like a pot to fill in the food stuff, but it
would not be filled in before feeding the Soul with the essence of Shrimad
Bhagwat; hence He was very regular to do so and to have the thoughts thereof
always in His mind.
This was a matter to others for
it was strange to them that Shri Devchandra ji did not use to observe fast on
the ‘Ekadasi’ (Eleventh lunar day) as most of the Hindus do. Shri Devchandra
ji, instead of the ‘Eleventh’, was observing the fast on the ‘Twelfth’ lunar
day.
The other audiences, therefore, began to
censure to find Shri Devchandra ji’s hobby against the custom of the Hindus’
belief.
They all, when attended the
preaching programme, asked Kanh ji Bhatt, “What type of lesson have you taught
to Shri Devchandra ji who takes meal on the Eleventh lunar day and observes
fast on the Twelfth.
“According to which Shastra (the
Holy Scripture), Shri Devchandra ji observes fast on the Twelfth lunar day. If
there be any such ritual custom and prescribed in the Shastra, please let us
know about it.”
Kanh ji Bhatt replied, “What He
(Shri Devchandra ji) has adopted to follow as a ritual, He must have decided
that wisely. Even then I shall ask Him and you shall get reply to your query.”
Meanwhile, Shri Devchandra
arrived. Kanh ji Bhatt then asked Shri Devchandra ji –
“You have been observing fast on
the ‘Twelfth’ and not on the Eleventh lunar day. I do not know; what you do so,
then why?
Shri Devchandra ji replied, “Yes,
I am doing so.” Then all others asked- “Please let us know why it is so?”
They continued, “We know that the
legendary importance of Shrimad Bhagwat is as great as the tallest and
wide-spread Banyan tree; and anyone would rarely digest the fruits of the
importance of the Holy Scripture.
“Despite the greatness of this
Banyan tree of the Holy knowledge of Shrimad Bhagwat, it appears to us, you are
well versed of its most tiny twig and you understood every secret, which other
common people have not understood.
“What you would tell us,” they
expressed, “it would definitely be consistent with the contents of the Holy
Scripture. Please tell us so that we might get satisfied that you must be
right.”
Shri Devchandra ji replied to
them, “According to me, which we listen to during the course of the preaching
of Shri Kanh ji Bhatt in respect of Shrimad Bhagwat, it means to satisfy the
appetite of the Soul; hence it is the first and foremost requirement, without
which the existence on the earth is meaningless.”
Shri Devchandra ji continued,
“Shri Bhatt ji does not deliver the discourses on the twelfth lunar day and I,
too, feel unable to feed my Soul, without which I am unable to have meal
(required by the physical body), hence I observe ‘fast’ on that day (instead of
that on the Eleventh).”
“And I take meal after I eat
oblation offered to me, because I know that the importance of taking that
sacred offering’s smallest piece is more than the fruits of crores of the fasts
observed on the Eleventh lunar day.
“For me Shrimad Bhagwat is the
Holy Scripture containing the description of the ‘Love’ played by the Lord
Supreme with the Gopies of Brij and Raas. Others have concern to listen to it
with the purpose of obtaining paradise (one among the four planes) named as
‘Swarg Lok’, where the Jeevashristies desire to reach by their souls, after
death”; (the opposite of which is ‘hell’ granted to a sinner).
Then Kanh ji Bhatt asked all of
them to give a reply to the explanation given by Shri Devchandra ji, but none
could say any thing. Of course, they expressed obligation.
In general, Shri Devchandra ji
regularly attended there to adhere to the discourses of Kanh ji Bhatt very
courteously, having immersed in the deep ocean of the rejoicing speech in
respect of His Lord Supreme with His tearful eyes.
For a long course of fourteen
years, Shri Devchandra ji adhered to Shrimad Bhagwat text read by Shri Kanh ji
Bhatt. Thereafter, what He experienced by the grace of the Lord Supreme, is
described in the next chapter - says Swami Laldas ji.
Swami Laldas ji says that the
relative portion of Jamnagar’s
event is described; further more is given in the ensuing chapter.
Prakaran
5, Chopai 289.
CHAPTER 6 – TARTAM PRAKASH.
Swami Laldas ji says, “Now I
shall describe the life sketch (Biography) of Shri Devchandra ji; the same has
importance from the very beginning. The Lord Supreme showered His Grace through
the medium of Shri Devchandra ji over His Divine Souls, descended on the earth
a few years later after the arrival of Shri Devchandra ji, by their
consciousness and not physically.
Shri Devchandra ji attended
regularly for fourteen years, Shyam ji’s temple and listened to the discourses
of Kanh ji Bhatt based on the verses of Shrimad Bhagwat. Then He experienced
the presence of His Lord Supreme Grace in His heart. The Supreme Wisdom, he
acquired, opened His eyes and enabled Him to understand every thing –how much
mysterious it might be.
Physically Shri Devchandra ji did
not feel well, but He did not care. He was regular to attend to adhere to the
discourses, even though He suffered from high fever (but all the efforts of
Maya to discourage Shri Devchandra ji were not effective to prevent Him from
His regular ‘to & fro’ of the temple.
Due to fever, Shri Devchandra ji
had to stop taking His meal. He had to go on fast for one or two days and still
reached the temple having covered His ears and throat to escape from the cold
air. Thus He continued adhering to the sacred discourses.
The fever continued for number of
days. He also did not take meal for three, four, five days.
He was very weak physically; still
He left home daily for attending the discourses in Shyam ji’s temple (it was
impossible for Him to interrupt).
Although due to His ailing
condition, Shri Devchandra ji continued to observe fast for twelve days, yet He
remained regular to attend the discourses.
Shri Mattoo Mehta, His father,
then sent for the physician to feel His pulse. The physician dispensed with
medicine-doses and instructed to prevent Shri Devchandra ji from his going in the
open air.
The physician spoke, “Be strict
to provide restriction and save Him from the cold air. His mother, Kunwari Bai
told that He would go definitely to attend Shrimad Bhagwat discourses despite
all restrictions.
The physician concluded that Shri
Devchandra ji might suffer from pneumonia if not saved from cold air; hence he
took back the medicine he gave earlier. He spoke, “I shall not come again.”
Then Mattoo Mehta promised, “I
shall try to prohibit Him from going out in order to save His life.
Shri Devchandra ji had His faith
in the religious way of living. He preferred it to what was necessary to keep
His physique in order. As such He replied to His father, “I can’t lie at home.
I shall go at any cost.”
Mattoo Mehta explained, “The
religion and the religious rites are performed by the body, hence it is necessary
to save the body first; without which the religious rituals can not be
maintained.” Since Mattoo Mehta meant the ritual deeds as Karmkand because of
his being involved in the worldly affairs due to ‘Maya’, he paid attention
towards the deeds to be done by the fit body and did not give importance to the
adherence of the Soul to the Lord.
Later on, some decocted
(water-boiled) medicine was given to Shri Devchandra ji by the physician, who
thereafter left for his home. Shri Devchandra ji at the scheduled time got
prepared to leave home; His ears were duly covered with a scarf to reach the
temple. He picked up the stick in His hand to go out.
Mattoo Mehta & Kunwari Bai
(His parents) bade Him to stay at home, but Shri Devchandra ji was cautious to
feed His Soul with Shrimad Bhagwat verses and with Kanh ji Bhatt’s discourses;
hence he did not pay any attention to the forbidding of His parents.
Then Mattoo Mehta shut the door
from the outside so that Shri Devchandra ji could not go out. He asked His
father to open the door. He became very much ill minded.
He spoke to His parents, “O
Innocents! I shall not die of the illness; my Soul shall reach there (in the
temple) after leaving the body senseless here, which you shall see lying as
dead.”
His parents did not comply with
His repeated request. Then He fell down on the earth. His mother prayed the
Lord to forgive her and shouted Mattoo Mehta to open the door.
Kunwari Bai repeatedly asked to
open the door. When Mattoo Mehta came inside after opening the door, he found
that eyeballs of Shri Devchandra ji were inward (a symptom of the eyes found in
a dying person). Hence the parents became quiet, having no good sense to do any
thing.
They shouted loudly close to the
ears of Shri Devchandra ji. Shri Devchandra ji was almost unconscious, not able
to hear nor could he recognize anybody.
He was told by His parents, “You
may please go to listen to Bhatt’s discourses; Bhatt has sent for you by his
man. We shall not restrict you to go; instead, we shall help you to reach there.”
In a few minutes (in a half ghati
–ghati means 24 minutes), Shri Devchandra ji regained senses and He then got up
immediately. His face complexion resembled white (because of immense weakness).
Again, His parents requested to
go to listen to Shrimad Bhagwat discourses without any restriction. Shri
Devchandra ji stood up with the support of a stick in His hand and Mattoo Mehta
became ready for accompanying Him.
Shri Devchandra ji walked out
from the house without saying any word. He reached Shyam ji’s temple and took
His seat to attend the discourses.
After feeding His Soul with the
verses of Shrimad Bhagwat and Bhatt’s discourses, Shri Devchandra ji recovered
from the illness and came back to His home. He had no fever, but gradually He
became fit.
He started taking food to regain
physical strength. The hardest test was over. He conquered the situation, which
He had undergone, as it was extreme.
Shri Devchandra ji continued
attending Shyam ji’s temple though, ten to fifteen days only passed after the
recovery from the illness. He very eagerly listened to the sacred discourses
related with Shrimad Bhagwat. During this course, Lord Supreme appeared in
person & asked Him, “Do you know me?”
Some time ago, Shri Devchandra ji
in His deep meditation had reached Vrindavan and met Shri Krishna. He saw the Lord
wearing the same appearance (of the adolescent age) –very handsome, who played
“Raas” in Vrindavan. Shri Devchandra ji spoke as per His knowledge:
“You are my Soul’s master, my
Husband – this much only I know.” Shri Krishna ji further enquired, “If you
know yourself, who are you & wherefrom have you come in this world?”
Shri Devchandra ji replied, “I
know simply that you are my Lord.” Shri Krishna ji then explained, “You know
only this much; now let me tell you further.
“You played with me in Brij and
Raas as a Gopi. Your name is Sunder Bai. Your desires remained unfulfilled in
Brij and Raas; hence this third Universe has been created.
“You along with all your colleagues
(Brahmashristies) abiding in Super Eternal Abode – Paramdham – appeared in this
dreamy world, by consciousness. You have to call and collect them all. Thence they
have to get awakened duly enlightened by you with the help of the Divine Wisdom,
which you would preach” Shri Devchandra ji enquired about the colleague-Brahmashristies,
“Where are those? Whom should I contact?” Shri Krishna ji spoke, “I shall
arrange to send for them all.”
Shri Krishna ji continued, “The
Holy Scripture of Shrimad Bhagwat contains many secrets related with you and
your colleagues and these secrets would now be revealed by you only and not by
any body. By explaining the meaning of the secrets, you would let them all
understand their relation with Paramdham.
“If any thing more you have to
learn, please ask me. I shall explain the same, then shall disappear and would
not reappear.”
Shri Devchandra ji asked, “My
Lord! Where shall you go now?” The Lord told Him, “I shall have my abode in
your heart.”
Then Shri Devchandra ji spoke, “I
have nothing to ask you as you shall abide in my heart.” Shri Krishna ji spoke
unto Him the Divine Wisdom’s secret – “Nijnaam Shri Krishna ji, Anaadi Aksharaateet.”
He disappeared. Shri Devchandra ji was delighted since He met with His
Lord.
‘Shri Devchandra ji Ko Darsh
diyo, jo hai pooran roop; Tartam ko tatva kahyo, hriday baithe Swaroop.’
Shri Devchandra ji was
enlightened by His Lord; hence He got awakened by His real consciousness and
could visualize the “Paramdham” – the Super Eternal Abode by the Soul’s eyes.
He at once had the remembrance of His presence in Paramdham, Brij and Raas.
(Brij Leela and Raas Leela are eternal in the memory of Indestructible God –
Akshhar.)
Also the secrets of Shrimad
Bhagwat (the sacred scripture) got revealed to Him. Shri Devchandra ji got
awakened from the dream world (as one gets up waked up in the morning after a
sleep of the night). In other words, Shri Devchandra ji started dignified
career having His heart occupied by His Lord to delight Him with HIS Eternal
‘Love’.
Shri Devchandra ji, delighted
with the Divine Wisdom bestowed upon Him by Shri Krishna ji in Shyam ji temple,
came back to His home and began to think as to whom should He speak about the
personal meeting, he had with His Lord. He thought, “Who would agree with me?”
At the same place in Shyam ji
temple, a fellow named Gang ji Bhai was also an attendant, who was interested
in listening to the discourses. That day, when he came out of the temple, Shri
Devchandra ji, who waited for him, met him in the way to say something about
the Lord’s graceful personification. They continued standing and talking
between both of them.
Shri Devchandra ji and Gang ji
Bhai were busy in their mutual conversation, standing aside in the way for a
very long time, while some ladies, who were fetching water from a well, crossed
them that day twice, where they were standing.
The ladies found them standing
and busy in their talk. In the second trip also they saw them there; hence the
ladies talked among themselves, “It is wonderful that these persons did not get
tired of their legs since they are standing for a very long time.
These two persons were rejoicing
while talking, having no care of their bodies’ tiredness. Then those ladies in
their third trip said to them –
“O Gentlemen! Why do you not talk
having seated instead of continuing standing as we have seen you in our three
trips while fetching water repeatedly from the well?”
Then they realised the physical
condition and after some sort of reciprocal compromise, they again picked up
the same topic related with the Souls and the Supreme Lord.
Days passed on, but they had had
been talking. Gang ji Bhai then realised that Shri Devchandra ji possessed a
treasure of the Divine Wisdom, which He might have gained miraculously.
Gang ji Bhai told Him, “We two
have been attending to the discourses related with Shrimad Bhagwat, together
regularly, but you could extract the essence more easily than I could do. How
could it be possible? Please tell me.”
When Shri Devchandra ji found that
Gang ji Bhai was anxious to learn and also found him deserving, He released a
bit of the Divine Wisdom, as a part of the fragrance of the invaluable and the
rare essence, what He treasured in His heart.
The taste of the bit of the
fragrance made Gang ji Bhai more and more anxious to know fully what Shri
Devchandra ji told him very thing about His life.
From His birth (in Umarkot) to
the date of His arrival in Jamnagar,
the details all events that happened, he described to Gang ji Bhai.
The days He spent in Jamnagar (Navanagar)
during which He continued listening to the sacred discourses and the miraculous
Grace of the Lord Supreme, who appeared in person a few days ago, He detailed
in His talk to Gang ji Bhai.
Gang ji Bhai was very much
impressed when he came to know about Supreme Lord's Grace. He started attending
to listening to Shri Devchandra ji’s preaching. Gang ji Bhai also released
these events and the essence of the preaching to others. Thus so many persons
started to reach Shri Devchandra ji to listen to His preaching (as per
directions of the Lord).
Lord Supreme having HIS abode in
the heart of Shri Devchandra ji attracted other concerned people – who heard
about Shri Devchandra ji’s preaching and they too began to arrive there.
Shri Laldas ji said, “What has
been narrated in this Chapter is related with the beginning of the Divine
Souls’ “get together” scheme. The events, which took place later, would be
detailed in the ensuing chapters.
Prakaran 6, Chopai 342.
CHAPTER 7 – SANKSHIPT JEEVAN
VRAT.
After the departure of Mohammed
Paigambar, Rasool (the Divine Messenger of the Supreme Lord), when a period of
nine hundred ninety years and nine months elapsed, # according to the prophecy
as contained in Quran, the Better-Half (Rooh-Allah) of the Lord Supreme along
with Her other colleagues – the Divine Souls (Momin) appeared in this Universe,
by their consciousness (not physically).
In Vikram Samvat 1638 (1581 A D),
in the Lunar Month of Aswin and on the fourteenth day of the bright fortnight
(Thursday), Shri Devchandra ji was born at Umarkot (a town in Sindh, now
Pakistan, which is also the birth place of Mugal Emperor, Akbar –the Great).
Shyama ji –the better half, of the Lord Supreme had HER consciousness in the
heart of Shri Devchandra ji; so He was Lord’s Beloved.
In Marwar, Umarkot is a village
(like a town), there lived Shri Mattoo Mehta and his wife, Kunwari Bai. They
were the parents of Shri Devchandra ji.
Shri Devchandra ji, after His
childhood, just in the early age of adolescence, arrived at Cutch. He travelled
from Umarkot to Cutch alone on foot in the darkness of the night, while the
Lord managed to send HIS messenger in the guise of soldier to help Him in the
way that shortened the distance and made the journey easy to reach the proper
place.
On reaching Cutch, he made a
thorough search of His Preceptor to enable Him to acquire the ‘Real Wisdom’. By
His utmost attempts and on contacting various chiefs of the different sects,
including Haridas, an adept of Vallabha Sampradaay, the Lord Supreme gracefully
granted HIS power to adore HIM.
Having spent some time with
Haridas, Shri Devchandra ji arrived at Jamnagar
with His parents and there attended the discourses of Kanh ji Bhatt.
He had been adhering to the
verses and the explanations of Shrimad Bhagwat for fourteen years regularly
with His utmost intellectual attention. When He attained the age of forty
years, ‘Lord Supreme’ graced Him by HIS real and splendid appearance in Shyam
ji’s temple.
In the temple, where Shrimad
Bhagwat was adhered to by Shri Devchandra ji, He was graced by ‘The Lord’ with
the sacred ‘Divine Wisdom’ (Tartam Mantra). The Lord revealed Him, “You have come
on the earth (by consciousness) from Paramdham – the Super Eternal Abode; think
over this and with the help of the Divine Wisdom get your Soul awakened in
Paramdham.”
“Prior to your embodiment third
time, in previous incarnations, you appeared first in Brij, and then in ‘Raas’,
the two different creations of the universes; this is the third creation. In
the previous incarnations, after playing Brij-Leela & Raas-Leela, your
desire to entertain the drama of the dream world remained not fully fulfilled;
hence you have come again.
“And to fulfil your desire, the
universe has been created third time (the first that of Brij and the second
that of Raas). The secrets of the Holy Scripture like Shrimad Bhagwat would be
unveiled to you and you shall make others in the world to understand the same.
“Your responsibility is to call
upon the Divine Souls, who are your colleagues in order to let them get
enlightened and recollect consciousness of the Super Eternal Abode, here in the
dream world, so that their desires to experience the sorrows of the separation
from ‘ME’ while dreaming would be satisfied.”
The Lord continued, “You shall
not be able to see me in this dream world by your physical eyes as you do now.
I shall have my ‘Abode’ in your heart; hence what do you want to know, please
ask now only.”
The Supreme Lord held Shri
Devchandra ji responsible to enlighten His colleagues – the Divine Souls,
belonging to the Super Eternal Abode, who consciously appeared on the earth.
The Lord told Shri Devchandra ji,
“I have sent you in the dream world only to awaken them from the sleep of the
‘illusion’ (Maya). You recognize them as your Divine Colleagues – Divine Souls
of Paramdham and for that sake, love them all by your heart.”
Shri Devchandra ji was born on
the fourteenth day of the bright half of Aswin, Lunar Month in Vikram Samvat
1638 (on 21st October, 1581 A D), and Thursday in Umarkot – a village of Marwar (Sindh).
He left this dreamy world on the
fourteenth day of the bright half of Bhadrapad, Lunar Month in Vikram Samvat
1712 (in mid-night on 14 / 15th September 1655) Wednesday.
Shri Devchandra ji lived on the
earth for seventy-four years but one month and handed over His job to Shri
Mehraj Thakur, who later on attracted the Divine Souls and awakened them (to
fulfil Jaagni Raas).
In Vikram Samvat 1675 (according
to Gujarat Almanac, and 1676 as per North India Almanac), and Lunar Month of
Aswin and fourteenth day of the dark fortnight, Sunday (6th October,
1619 A D) Shri Mehraj Thakur was born at Jamnagar,
Saurastra, three hours after the Sun rise-time.
In Vikram Samvat 1751 (according
to North India Almanac, it was 1752) and the Lunar Month of Shravan, Fourth day
of the dark fortnight (Friday the 29th July 1695), an Angel
(Farishta) of the Supreme Lord arrived from the Super Eternal Abode when about
three-fourth of an hour was due to dawn.
# (Mohammedan Era began on 16th
July 622 A D).
The duration of the third lunar
day was over at a quarter past 12 O’clock (six hours after the Sun set, thence
the fourth lunar day commenced and it was forty-eight minutes earlier than the
dawn, at that time Mahamati Shri Prannath ji (Mehraj Thakur) departed from the
earth (by His consciousness) and entered in the Yoga-Samadhi by getting
awakened in the Super Eternal Abode.
It was Friday; Shri Mehraj’s
physical body (who was in Yoga Samadhi) was lying in Shri Banglaji. In the
early morning of the next day (the fifth lunar day), His was seated in the
basement of Shri Gummat ji and the sacred voluminous Book of ‘Tartamsagar’ was
posed on the throne in place of Shri…ji.
Two months and ten days were
short to complete seventy-six years’ age, during which life-span, Shri Mehraj
ji viewed the dream-drama and thereafter waked up in the Super Eternal Abode –
Paramdham.
Those who associated Shri…ji and
accompanied Him upto Parna ji (Panna, M.P.) were called Sundersath and before
His departure from the world, Shri…ji requested the Supreme Lord to take care
of the Sundersath; but directly Shri Chhatrashal was asked by Shri…ji to pay
his proper attention to take due care. He said, “I have to reach ‘My Super
Eternal Home”.
Shri…ji spoke to Shri
Chhatrashal, “I look at you: and only you can do what I want; hence I have
handed over the association (Sundersath) to you –whom you should please with
your utmost hearty service.”
By the Divine Order of the Lord
Supreme, the entry to Paramdham has become possible for all; hence Mahamati Shri
Prannath ji made ‘hearts of Sundersath’ the Paramdham, the Sacred Abode of His
(Lord).
Shri Laldas ji says that as per
instructions being given to me in my inner heart, I have now to describe the
events which happened in the beginning (the event of enlightenment experienced
by the Divine Souls by the Grace of the Supreme Lord, who preached in the guise
of Shri Devchandra ji). Now the description in respect of those Divine Souls
who were enlightened by Mahamati Shri Prannath ji, charged to act as Lord Supreme,
and who continued the job entrusted to Him by Shri Devchandra ji to awaken the
remaining Divine Souls and others, who deserve would be narrated in the ensuing
chapter.
Prakaran 7, Chopai 368.
CHAPTER 8 – ANTARDHYAN EVAM
BALIDAN.
Swami Laldas ji describes that
when Shri Mehraj Thakur (Shri…ji) departed from the dream world and adopted the
Yoga-Samadhi, many associates at Panna, also followed Him as they could not
bear the sorrows of the separation from their Souls’ Lord. Their dedication by
their souls has a concern with the lesson to be learnt by others too.
Smt. Tej Kunwari, the better half
of Shri ji Sahib had already departed from the world before Shri ji did. She
won the game of the worldly illusions amongst all other associates who praised
Her for Her successful achievements.
In Vikram Samvat 1750 (as per
North India Almanac it was 1751), in the Lunar Month of Vaishakh, on the eighth
day of the bright fortnight, Wednesday, She departed to reach Paramdham at the
mid-day.
In Vikram Samvat 1751 (it was
1752 as per Northern India Almanac i.e. 1695 A D), the Lunar Month of Asadh (as
per Gujarati Ephemeris and the month of Shravan as per North India diary) on
the fourth day of the dark fortnight, before the end of the night- earlier than
the dawn, Shri…ji (Dhani –the Lord) reached Paramdham –the Super Eternal Abode
in His state of Yoga Samadhi. Mahamati Shri Prannath ji duly enlightened had
been enjoying & experiencing His Eternal presence in Paramdham since the
date, Shri Devchandra ji’s Soul entered in His heart; hence He was called “Shri
Mahamati”.
The weekday was Friday (Jumma –
as per Islamic Era) and three-fourth of an hour earlier than the dawn, Shri…ji reached consciously the Super Eternal
Abode (also known as Arsh-Azeem, Darul Vaka) in His state of Yoga Samadhi – by
Chitvani.
There were certain associates who
had accompanied Shri ji from various towns and cities and arrived at Panna
along with Him, since they had recognized Shri…ji as their Souls’ Lord; hence
they could not retain their souls in the physical bodies when Shri ji departed
from the world. They sacrificed themselves at the Lotus Feet of their Lord and
proved them to be the leaders.
Shri Laldas ji explained that the
news of the departure of Shri ji when heard by a group of the associates,
including himself, none could waste a moment even to take a little water as all
of them were ready in performance of their services which was the motto of
their lives.
The moment was spiritually the
best time selected to exhale forever and to get awakened consciously in
‘Paramdham’. This occasion has been defined as the Morrow-Day of Qayamat in
Quran, as promised by Mohammed Paigambar.
“We, a few associates could not
get up from the sleep of the Maya –the illusions. When awakened, we found that
our Lord had already left as destitute for lamenting restlessly.”
Shri Laldas ji commented that
those, who did not feel agony of the separation of our Lord and did not exhale,
how would show their faces to others?
These fellows got defeated
instead of being victorious. The Divine Souls could not tolerate the mental
agony, which they had to sustain. “This topic”, Shri Laldas ji says- “would be
discussed later on at the appropriate time.
Shri Laldas ji says, “I was also
amongst the leading associates and had full sense to have recognized Shri ji as
my Soul’s Lord; but alas! at the moment, when Shri ji departed, I forgot myself
and now I have been lamenting.
“I know my originality of being
one of the Divine Souls – the inhabitants of the Super Eternal Abode; but due
to worldly mentality, I forgot my relation with my originality as well as that
with ‘The Supreme Lord’.
He continued, “The worldly
animals even know the intimacy of love and the resultant behaviour amidst them;
but I could not follow that sort of living.
“I am sure this happened only to
comply with the Divine Order of Shri ji (to write the Biography –Shri Beetak),
otherwise no body that could be fully awakened in the company of the leading
associates like me, should remain alive in the illusive world. Nothing
otherwise can be done, except what the Supreme Lord has already planned.
“Thus those associates, who did
not leave for the Super Eternal Abode spontaneously when Shri ji departed, do
not deserve to be praised. Now the details in respect of those who did not live
in the dreamy world any more, but accompanied their Souls’ Lord and reached
Paramdham, are given hereunder:
The names of those associates
(Sundersath) who belonged to Paramdham and sacrificed their lives were Sarva
Shri Shankar Hajuri, Lalman and Naraindas.
Some of the lady associates were Godavari and Kishni. Shri Dhan ji Bhai also accompanied
them to reach Paramdham by souls.
Shri Jasia was also them, who left
the dream world immediately in order to live near ‘Lotus Feet of Shri ji’.
Praised by all, Shrimati Ambo
Bai, an intense devotee of Shri ji was graced by the Lord Supreme. She reached
the Lotus Feet of her Lord.
Smt. Ratan Bai was always
performing hearty services to please Shri ji; hence her hands were in the hand
of the Lord, who led her to reach Paramdham with Him.
Similarly, Smt Ram Bai, who loved
Shri ji by her Soul, dedicated herself at the Lotus Feet of Shri ji.
All these associates who left the
dreamy world were duly enlightened; hence they stood in the category of the
leading Divine Souls and they deserved to be remembered by all in the world.
Shri Laldas ji has quoted the
examples of these leading Divine Souls so that others could also follow them.
Prakaran
8, Chopai 392.
CHAPTER 9 – MOMINO KI KURBANI.
In the previous chapter, Swami
Laldas ji has said about those Sundersath (associates) who expired the same day
soon after they came to know about the departure of their Lord ‘Shri ji. Now he
says, in this chapter, the details of those souls, who were associates and
departed from the world the next or the subsequent days because of the immense
anguish on account of the separation from their Lord (Shri ji). Shri Laldas ji
says, “There are few words to praise them, but I shall say according to my
capacity.
“Some of the Divine Souls could
not bear the mental anguish when they learnt about the departure of their Lord.
They, treating the worldly luster as little as a calf’s foot-print (nothing to
attract or to keep binding), sacrificed their souls at the Lotus Feet of their
Lord.
“Although the dreamy world is
like a limitless ocean, and no one could find any shore for one’s shelter, yet
the Divine Souls, being fully concerned with the doctrine of the sect as
preached to them by Shri ji, could easily find a way to overcome the problem of
crossing the limitless ocean.
The warriors on the earth prefer
to combat with the foes and die in the field fighting with the swords and
getting badly injured; but these warriors would not be able to be compared with
the Divine Souls who disintegrated bravely for the sake of their Supreme Lord.
Having no suspicion, these Divine
Souls gave up their physical bodies and their souls reached near the Lotus Feet
of their Lord, having the positive decision in their performance.
The worldly affairs and the
worldly relation were no barriers for these Divine Souls, who had a definite
goal to reach their Super Eternal Abode –Paramdham.
Many of the adept disciples
performed well to disseminate the doctrines of Shri ji to the depth of the
heart of others and made them enlightened to feel their conscious presence in
Paramdham. Still without the specific call and the guidance of the Lord, no one
could achieve the goal (Paramdham).
Shri Laldas ji defined the
essential qualification, a Momin (the Divine Soul) must possess, “On hearing
about the departure of the Lord, if the mental anguish of the separation from
the Lord is not experienced in the heart, the relation of that soul with the
Super Eternal Abode would appear to be doubtful.
“As soon as one happens to hear
about the departure and experience the separation from the Lord, one leaves the
dreamy world spontaneously: that is a Momin (Divine Soul).
But that fellow, who has a
concern with his physical body and has a longing to live, should not dare to
sit amongst the true Divine Souls only to talk about the sorrows of the
separation from the Lord. The mere talks are the dialogues of the drama.
A Momin (the Divine Soul), who
has a little acquaintance and resultant affection with his Lord, should very
honestly leave the physical body and depart from the dreamy world.
They are blamable, who despite
having known about the departure, do not experience the sorrows of the
separation. They have little acquaintance with the Lord.
“Those Divine Souls are also
blamable who maintained their relations with the dreamy world. How would they
dare to show their face to other companions when they would reach Paramdham and
meet there with all other enlightened souls?
“Despite having heard the talk in
respect of the separation from the Lord (who left the dreamy world for the good
to abide in Paramdham), if any ones live in the physical bodies in the dreamy
world, definitely they are dishonest.”
Swami Laldas ji expressed, “We
had been accompanying our Lord Day and night and we were always thinking about
Him only, how could we continue live here without our Lord?
“But we know that our life on the
earth without our Lord would last as long as the Supreme Lord would like us to
live here for doing the allotted job; no doubt, we are not any more interested
to live here.
“Those who departed from the
world have complied with the order of the Lord, and those, who have not been
allowed to leave the dreamy world, have to do certain job for the sake of other
Divine Souls."
In Vikram Samvat 1751 (it was
1752 in Northern India Ephemeris) on the fourteenth lunar day of the dark
fortnight of the month of ‘Bhadrapad’ (Aswin as per Northern India Ephemeris),
the names of those Sundersath who reached the Lotus Feet of the Supreme Lord,
after they bade ‘Pranam’ (Good-bye) to other living souls, are described below:
-
“I would tell their names who
achieved their goal of reaching the Lotus Feet of the Lord and became pious,
having departed from the dreamy world.
One of them was Vallabha das, the
second was Keshav das ji and the third was Mathura. The three were the prominent Divine
Souls.
Ram Kunwari with Keshav and
Hameera with her husband, Prasadi, who accompanied Shri ji and performed their
hearty services, also departed from the world.
The fourth was Shahman, the fifth
Narsingh das. Santdas was the sixth. These were the Divine Souls who too
departed. Poor Bai, Khadgee, Keshar Bai and Kashi – these Divine Souls also
departed on the third day along with another associate named Asaoo.
Swami Laldas ji has directed all
those to follow these ‘Souls’ and tread the same path they adopted to reach the
Lotus Feet of the Supreme Lord duly awakened.
Prakaran 9, Chopai 416.
CHAPTER 10 – SHRI DEVCHANDRA JI
PARIVAR PRASANG.
First, I shall mention the names
of the family members of Shri Devchandra ji, who dedicated themselves at the
Feet of the Master (Sadguru) and became disciples, having faith in the sect
originated by Shri Devchandra ji. Swami Laldas ji quoted a verse of Chapter 12
/ 2 of Bhagwat, which infers about the prophecy of the appearance of Shri
Chandravanshiya Dev (Shri Devchandra ji) and Suryavanshiya Mehraj Thakur, the
brothers of King Shantanu, the descendants of Ikshhaku & Maru. They would
stay at Kalap village for the performance of the deeds with the aim to grant a
boon of welfare to the mankind.
Shri Devchandra ji appeared from
Paramdham (Arsh-Azeem), the Super Eternal Abode for the sake of the Divine
Souls (Brahmashristies) with whom He lived and enjoyed.
As far as the worldly affairs are
concerned, Shri Devchandra ji married with Smt. Lal Bai. Both the husband and
the wife led their lives worshipping by their hearty ‘Love for Lord Supreme
(Shri Raj) and were graced by HIM.
A son, named Bihari ji was born
to them. Smt Lal Bai expired earlier than her husband.
Among other members of the
family, Jamuna Bai was sister of Bihari ji. Megha Bhai and Tharo Bhai were two
brothers. Jamuna Bai married with Megha and Tharo’s wife was Thakurani and Nag
ji his son.
Jamuna Bai, the daughter of Shri
Devchandra ji was the wife of Megha Bhai, the brother of Tharo Bhai. These were
the members of the family of Shri Devchandra ji.
Bihari’s wife was Krishna Bai and
Rang Bai was the name of the wife of Nagji, the son of Tharo.
The above details are in respect
of the family members of Shri Devchandra ji, with whom He had worldly
relations. Now the names of those persons who became disciples are given here:
Shri Devchandra ji pleased
Haridas first with His hearty service, but later on Haridas became the disciple
of Shri Devchandra ji when he learnt about the pious Soul of Shri Devchandra ji
(as told to him by Bal Mukund, who appeared in person when Haridas observed day
and night fast on missing from his sight the Idol of Bal Mukund).
Haridas ji dedicated himself at
the Lotus Feet of Shri Devchandra ji when he recognized Him as the Advent of
the Divine Soul. He tried his best to perform the service to please Shri
Devchandra ji.
Besides Haridas, Vrindavan –his
son and the mother of Vrindavan admitted that Shri Devchandra ji possessed a
personality of a pious Soul; hence they also pleased Him by their hearty
services.
Vrindavan’s wife, Mooli also got
enlightened and she along with her husband became disciples.
Vrindavan’s son was Narhar. He
and his grand mother (Vrindavan’s mother) together preserved the acquaintance with
Shri Devchandra ji’s pious Soul.
Shri Laldas ji says that in the
next chapter, not the whole but brief details of those who became disciples are
mentioned by the grace of the Lord Supreme.
Prakaran 10, Chopai 430.
CHAPTER 11 – SUNDERSATH AAGMAN.
Swami Laldas ji has used words
“Deen Islam” for the religion of mankind, founded by Shri Devchandra ji. ‘Deen’
means religion and ‘Islam’ means what is related with the Lord Supreme. But the
religion shows the ways to be followed by the human beings: the true meaning is
to give relief from the intricacies of Maya. Gangji Bhai was the first man who
listened to the Divine Discourses and he dedicated self by his soul to the
Lotus Feet of Shri Devchandra ji, as he was awakened on adhering to the Divine
Wisdom.
Shri Laldas ji says, “I am
describing about the members of the family of those who decided to tread the
path leading to the Super Eternal Abode – Paramdham on having been enlightened on
adhering to the Divine Discourses delivered by Sadguru Dhani Shri Devchandra
ji. They pleased Him by their sincere service and they attended regularly to
listen to the preaching.
Ganga Bai was Gangji Bhai’s
mother, who acknowledged to have gained faith in the discourses, delivered to
her by Shri Devchandra ji, who too, pleased her by His graceful look at her.
Bhan Bai, the wife of Gangji Bhai
obeyed Shri Devchandra ji and complied with His directives.
Gangji Bhai’s son was Shyam ji.
He listened to the preaching of Shri Devchandra ji, but because he did not
belong to Paramdham, hence he did not recognize who Shri Devchandra ji was.
Shyam ji’s wife who was
daughter-in-law of Gangji Bhai & Bhan Bai and named Ajbai was ever ready to
perform the service to please Sadguru Shri Devchandra ji, whom she recognized
as her Soul’s Lord.
Second son of Gangji Bhai was
Manji, who performed all kinds of services as per instructions of Gangji Bhai
in order to please Shri Devchandra ji.
Dhan ji Bhai was the son of Heer
Bai. Bal Bai was the sister of Gangji Bhai. These became disciples of Shri
Devchandra ji.
Heer Bai was the wife of Kheta
Bhai, brother of Gangji Bhai. She was residing with the family of Gangji Bhai
while her husband was in Arabia. She also
performed her hearty services to please Shri Devchandra ji.
Gangji Bhai’s third brother was
Govind ji. Although he also was a member of Gangji Bhai’s family, yet he did
not have his career in having any interest with Shri Devchandra ji, nor did he
adhere to the discourses.
Among other disciples, one was
Jeevraj having impression of consciousness of Divine Soul of Tan Bai in
Paramdham. Bachhai Bai was his mother who knew about the Divine personality of
Shri Devchandra ji.
Gangji Bhai’s brother-in-law,
named Ganesh and his wife, Gomati, both were living there for the performance
of their hearty services to please Shri Devchandra ji.
Heer Bai’s daughter (niece of
Gangji Bhai) named Aside with her daughter, Raj Bai, too, was also there in the
family to please Shri Devchandra ji with their performance of the services.
Gangji Bhai’s brother, Paarapyo
and his wife Jasodani, the sister-in-law of Bhan Bai (Gangji Bhai’s wife) were
performing their services to please Shri Devchandra ji.
Shyam ji, the son of Gangji Bhai
had two daughters, named Har Bai and Lad Bai. They were playing before Shri
Devchandra ji to please Him with their child like plays.
Gangji Bhai’s second son, Man ji
had a son whom, Shri Devchandra ji recognized to be a Divine Soul of Paramdham,
who was having the impression of consciousness of Sukh Bai. During the course of preaching by
Shri Devchandra ji, no body dared to break silence.
Shri Devchandra ji used to speak
strongly. His face reflected the ideas, he had in His heart. The attendants
looking at His face-glory were experiencing a great deal of pleasure to sooth
their souls.
While describing about the
physique beauty (of each and every limb and organ) of Supreme Lord, who dressed
according to HIS own liking (different types of dresses having different
colours at different times), wearing ornaments etc., Shri Devchandra ji used to
express His inner feelings in an emotional and influential way, in order to
enable the audiences experience as if Shri Raj ji (the Supreme Lord) were
standing in person there.
While delivering the discourses,
He often described the details of ‘Love’ played between Shri Krishna (Lord) and
the ladies of Brij and those in ‘Raas’, supporting His version with contexts
and references extracted from the scriptures as well as the poems sung or
spoken by the reverend saints in the past.
Shri Devchandra ji was anxious to
increase the number of the attendants and He was very much happy whenever a new
entrant happened to arrive there.
Swami Laldas ji says, “Now let me
speak in respect of the members of the family of Shri Mehraj Thakur, especially
those, who were favoured by Shri Devchandra ji with His gracious blessings;
because no one can describe in words the same, without the mercy of Lord
Supreme.”
Shri Mehraj Thakur is having
impression of consciousness of ‘Shri Indravati’ in Paramdham. His parents were
Shri Keshava Thakur (Father) and Smt. Dhan Bai (Mother). He dedicated to
Sadguru with His sound senses of mind, by performing physical services and
adoring all His wealth.
Shrimati Phool Bai was the first
and Smt. Tej Kunwari, the second wife of Shri Mehraj Thakur. They were blessed
by having married to Shri Mehraj, as the splendour of ‘Lord Supreme’ is ever
seen at His face.
Earlier than Shri Mehraj, His
elder brother, Gobardhan Das Thakur was already a disciple with whose help Shri
Mehraj visited Shri Devchandra ji and received favour of the ‘Lord’.
Shri Gobardhan Bhai Thakur was
having the impression of consciousness of the Divine Soul of Gunvanti Bai of
Paramdham.
Uddhav ji was their youngest
brother. Govind ji was also a member of the family. All these were regular
attendants to listen to the discourses delivered by Shri Devchandra ji.
Chaturbhuj and his wife Padma,
the members of the family of Shri Mehraj Thakur were also admitted in the association
of the Sundersath (the group of the disciples of Shri Devchandra ji).
The name of the wife of Shri Uddhav
ji was Bhan Bai. She did not accept the discipleship of Sadguru Shri Devchandra
ji, as she did not know about the Divine personality of Shri Devchandra ji.
Shri Shyamaliya Thakur was the
elder brother of Shri Mehraj Thakur. He could know about the mercy and glory of
the Lord Supreme, which Shri Mehraj had been enjoying, hence he became disciple
very late (when Shri Mehraj along with Shyamal ji Thakur and youngest brother Uddhav
was kept in confinement by the Vazir of the Ruler of Jamnagar on certain false
allegations). Sita Bai and Premji were also awakened to recognize the Divinity
of Shri Devchandra ji.
Saveera Bai got awakened with the
help of Premji and was admitted as a disciple of Shri Devchandra ji.
Vishna ji was the brother of
Premji Bhai; he did not accept the discipleship of Shri Devchandra ji; but
because of his being in the company of Shri Mehraj Thakur, he was fortunate to visualize
‘Lord Supreme.’
Pur Bai, associated with her son
Pitambar, accepted the discipleship. Kanji and Manji, the two sons of Pitambar
Bhai also dedicated themselves to Shri Mehraj Thakur.
Ratan Bai, the mother of Kanji
and Manji and the wife of Pitambar Bhai became staunch associates and
accompanied Shri…ji upto Panna ji. They proved to be the Divine Souls of
Paramdham.
The wife of Harbansh Bhai was
Megh Bai. She was recognized as a Divine Soul by Shri Devchandra ji. She was
having the impression of consciousness of Harakh Bai of Paramdham.
Gokul das, who was also a
disciple of Shri Devchandra ji died earlier. He was one of the members of the
family of Shri Mehraj Thakur.
Rudro Bhai, who was a shopkeeper
at Junagarh, was also a disciple of Shri Devchandra ji, whom he adored as his
Lord. He was also concerned with the family of Shri Mehraj Thakur.
Among a number of disciples,
Kanji, Thawar, Padamsi, Jeeva, Jasoda & Kan Bai were also awakened and
included in the association.
Deesa, Nain Bai, Main Bai, Man
Bai all these performed their services to please Shri Devchandra ji and they
enjoyed by having inner vision to visualize ‘Lord’.
Mahavji, Purshottam and Ram ji of
Kothari recognized their ‘Lord’ in the guise of Shri Devchandra ji.
Jaimal and his wife were late to
have accepted discipleship of Bihari ji after the departure of Shri Devchandra
ji (who departed from the physical body and entered into the heart of Shri Mehraj
Thakur).
Although a lady, Lachho –caste
fellow of Shri Devchandra ji, was a regular attendant to listen to the
discourses, yet she did not wake up to accept Shri Devchandra ji’s Divinity.
Narayan Soni and Leeladhar became
members of the association and they fed their souls with the oblation of the preaching
of Shri Devchandra ji.
Bhimji Bhatia along with his wife
became disciple of Shri Devchandra ji. They were regular attendants to listen
to the preaching.
Rai Kunwari Bai, the wife of Mool
ji listened to the preaching and was indoctrinated with the Divine Wisdom. Her
wishes were fulfilled by Sadguru Shri Devchandra ji. Har Bai, the daughter of
Guglan Ma, was also accepted as the disciple.
Jai Ram Kansara and his wife,
residents of Due (Deep Bandar) and who visited Jamnagar for a short while also accepted the
discipleship of Shri Devchandra ji.
Ganesh and his wife and Bhoj Bai,
Dev Bai, Bhoj, Moon ji and Ganga Bai, all these pleased Shri Devchandra ji by
their hearty services and became the disciples.
Jeevo, Gango and Gwaal also
dedicated themselves and were made disciples. These, too, had also belonged to
Deep Bandar (Due).
Moolo, Pushkaran Brahman, Haans
Bai, Bain Bai were the attendants who were watching Shri Devchandra ji’s
glorious face very joyfully. They were fortunate to visualize the ‘Splendour’ of
their ‘Lord’ in the person of Shri Devchandra ji.
Akhai – Kayashtha of Jamnagar
(Navtanpuri) dedicated himself to Shri Devchandra ji. Mallo and Pragmal got
enlightened at Madai. Harbeer along with other members of his family was also
admitted and indoctrinated. They associated with other Sundersath.
Another Harbeer with family was
also indoctrinated and enlightened by Sadguru.
Radha Bai, Som Bai and Somai were
residents of Madai. They all accepted the discipleship of Shri Devchandra ji.
The residents of Thattanagar,
Natha Joshi, Bada Maav ji, Lala Kayashtha and Ghana Kayashtha became the
disciples of Shri Devchandra ji.
Shri Laldas ji concluded that
there were many other associates from the different villages, towns and cities.
Their names would be mentioned later on (in other chapters).
Shri Laldas ji continued, “O Sath
ji! The dignity of these Divine Souls would be revealed on the commencement of the
Ultimate Day of Justice (on being enlightened at the occasion of Qayamat).
Prakaran 11, Chopai 485.
CHAPTER 12, - KORAN PURAN KI
SAKSHEE.
In Quran vide Chapter 12 page twenty-four
and explanatory Para 301, some reference is
available.
The Lord Supreme delivered the
Divine Wisdom (Tartam) to Shri Devchandra ji for the purpose of illuminating the
world by the rays of its ‘Light’ for a long period upto the Ultimate Day of Justice
(Qayamat, which means enlightenment of the Souls of the mankind in order to
recognize the Supreme Lord as well as themselves.)
In the sacred scriptures like Ved
and Quran, Bible etc. the prophecy about ‘Advent of Shri Devchandra ji’ through
whom the Divine Wisdom would be disseminated in the world for the enlightenment
of the souls, have been contained by indications. According to the prophecy of
these sacred scriptures, the appropriate time had then come. The Divine Souls,
having enlightened the selves, would lead others to follow the path of
righteousness and make them enlightened.
Although Shrimad Bhagwat was
described by a renowned sage, named Sukhdeo in the beginning of Kaliyug (some
five thousand years ago in 3000 BC), yet the correct interpretation could not
be possible, unless the Divine Souls appeared (after 1581 A D) as the same
Scripture contained the Divine message to the Divine Souls’ interest.
And in respect of the Advent of
Shri Devchandra ji, Mohammed Paigambar has given reference in Quran, a Holy
Book of Islamic Faith (vide Chapter 12 ibid), describing the Divine message
dictated by the Lord Supreme (Allah) before hand (about one thousand years ago)
to Mohammed Paigambar.
From the very beginning i.e. the
date of the Advent of Shri Devchandra ji till the period during and upto which
the Divine Souls would get enlightened, all the events related to, have been
well prophesied in Quran (but the word-meanings have not been interpreted
correctly by the common people as well as those who have faith in Islamic
religion).
The events, which took place
during the period of 120 years (from Vikram Samvat 1638 or 1581 A. D. to Samvat
1758 or 1701 A D) are mainly related with the Divine Souls who experienced the mirth
and misery in the illusive Maya repeatedly before getting enlightened; and the
same are described in Quran.
The Divine Messenger of the Lord
Supreme (Mohammed Paigambar) had to encounter with those, who ignored the
Divine Message. Next to it, similar events took place after the Advent of Shri
Devchandra ji.
In the guise of Bihari ji, Maya
had an encounter with Shri…ji, who conquered the Maya successfully.
In Quran, the message of the Lord
Supreme (Allah), i.e. the prophecy of all these events has been mentioned,
which the Divine Souls have conceived with the appropriate interpretation and
revealed in simple language for the information of the mankind in the Universe.
Shri Laldas ji expressed that the
contents of the Sacred Book, ‘Shri Beetak Ji’, which contains the details in
respect of the biography of Dhani Shri Devchandra ji and Mahamati Shri Prannath
ji (Shri Mehraj Thakur), when gone through thoroughly, would awaken the souls
and they would reach by their consciousness, to prostrate at the Lotus Feet of
their Lord: in other words they would get rid of the intricacies of Maya.
The contents of the sacred Book
would enable the mankind to establish their relation with the Divine Souls and
they would repent for their ignorance and forgetfulness. Then only the
importance of the Ultimate Day of Justice (Qayamat) would be revealed to them.
The event of the advent of the
Divine Souls (also predicted in Shrimad Bhagwat Geeta and Mahabharata) has
become known to the mankind. Thus the concerned people began to gather there to
listen to the preaching in respect of the Divine Wisdom, delivered to them by
Sadguru.
In this sacred book, Shri Laldas
ji has mentioned the details related with Shri Devchandra ji from the date of
His birth in Vikram Samvat 1638 (1581 A D) to the date of disappearance of Shri
Prannath ji in Vikram Samvat 1751 (as per the North India Almanac 1752 i.e.1695
A D).
The birth date of Shri Devchandra
ji was the ‘Fourteenth Day’ of the bright half of the lunar month of Aswin (a
day before the Sharad-Purnima – the Full Moon Day) in Vikram Samvat 1638 (21st
October 1581). One hundred ten years and four months ended on the fourteenth
day of the bright half of the lunar month of Maagh in Vikram Samvat 1748 (1691
A D) and during this period the Divine Souls enjoyed the Grace of the Lord
Supreme.
During the above period, Shri
Devchandra ji and Mahamati Shri Prannath ji awakened the Divine Souls and other
human beings and they got acquainted with Super Eternal Abode –Paramdham (as
also pointed out by Shri Krishna in Geeta). The Ultimate Day of Justice as
promised by the Lord in Quran is also explained and made clear to all those,
who were concerned. As such, they came forward to have courteous visit of their
Lord who appeared in the guise of Shri Devchandra ji and Mahamati Shri Prannath
ji, according as they individually deserved.
The people, whosoever, wished to
be graced for fulfilling worldly needs, got their ambitions fulfilled by the
Lord’s Grace for their having coherence with the Divine Souls.
Shri Laldas ji explained that the
Lord Supreme has immense Grace to shower over all, but only those, who have
full faith and ‘Love for the Lord’, get benignity to enjoy.
Prakaran 12, Chopai 504.
CHAPTER 13, -DONO SWAROOPON KAA
MILAAP.
Shri Laldas ji says, “Those
people, who were the Divine Souls, were regular attendants to listen to the
Divine Discourses delivered by Shri Devchandra ji. Shri Raj ji was merciful to
pour showers benignly by appearing in person before the Divine Souls, attending
there.
Gangji Bhai was so much excited
in the performance of the services that he used to manage for a group dinner to
all those also who were the regular attendants.
Whenever any new person joined
them, Shri Devchandra ji got delighted by His heart, which could not be
described in words of the worldly language.
According to his own, whenever
some attendant brought a new companion to attend the discourses, Shri
Devchandra ji expressed His gratitude and thought –what price should be paid to
him for his efforts.
Shri Devchandra ji had only one
ambition to preach and enlighten, as many as could be possible, the Divine
Souls. The Divine Souls were honored and given recognition of the Super Eternal
Abode.
Shri Devchandra ji thought, “I
have met the Divine Souls of Paramdham in this illusive world. What type of the
special custom should be adopted to satisfy the desires of these Divine Souls?”
“The Lord has sent for these
Divine Souls to meet me. I shall tell them the original relations we are having
in Paramdham. I should do my best to please them so that they are happy.
“The Divine Souls do not know who
are they? But I recognize them as they have come (by their consciousness only)
to watch the drama of the illusive world.
“These Divine Souls involved in
the worldly affairs have now become helpless. Who would make efforts to awaken
them from the sleep of the ignorance?
“I must go out (leaving home for
other places) and have a thorough search to find them out as the Lord has given
their hands in my hand (the Lord made me responsible to awaken all the Divine
Souls). “I must do this hard work to continue the discourses incessantly”.
Shri Laldas ji says, “The
attendants listened to the discourses daily, delivered to them by Shri
Devchandra ji, who had been obeying the Divine Order of the Lord and was fully
aware of His duty.”
Ajbai, the niece of Megh Bai was
residing at Gang ji’s home. She was married to Shyam ji. She talked with the others
in respect of Shri Devchandra ji’s discourses, when she came in the house of
Shri Mehraj.
Ajbai used to come to see her
aunt, Megh Bai. She told her that Lord Shri Krishna used to appear there.
“The Lord (Shri Krishna) appears
there in person to have lunch and dinner thrice daily and also speaks about the
taste of the foods HE eats, “The milky preparation is lesser sweet.”
Ajbai also told, “Shri Krishna
accepts betel-leaves (Paan) after having eaten many kinds of preparations and
thereafter, HE leads the Enlightened Souls to a place of solitude to let them visualize
the beauty of Sacred
Jamuna River
flowing in Paramdham.
She added, “Shri Krishna ji gave
a golden pot to one of the attendants. HE often brings with HIM the valuable articles
and distributes the same among those, who have concern with the Lord by his
soul. In this way the celebration of joyful meetings takes place daily.
Ajbai told Megh Bai, “I do watch
Shri Krishna ji daily at our home; you may also come to my house and see the
‘Lord’s Splendour’.
Then Megh Bai asked Gobardhan
Thakur (elder brother of Shri Mehraj) to go there (at Gangji’s house) and tell
her what was happening there? She would, thereafter, accompany him.
Padma, the wife of Gobardhan had
been to Gangji’s house some time earlier. She supported the version of Ajbai,
“I have seen Shri Krishna ji in person there.”
Shri Gobardhan Thakur then
reached and prostrated to Shri Devchandra ji and spoke, “I have come to get
awakened by my soul, and hence I dedicate myself to you.”
In the lunar month of Kartika of
the Vikram Samvat 1687 (1631 A D), Gobardhan met Sadguru, Shri Devchandra ji
and from that day Gobardhan began to feel to have original relation with
Paramdham.
One day some mischievous fellow
made a complaint to the local Police Station Officer stating that certain
ladies and gents gathered daily in a Kayashtha house, which would be
objectionable in a society of the gentlemen; hence he should go there and make
investigation.
The Police Station Officer
deputed two constables to make an inquiry and report the fact to him.
The mischievous fellow
accompanied them to show the house of Gangji Bhai. He pointed out a house in
the evening, where a lamp was seen from some distance. The constables proceeded
to the direction of the lighted lamp but did not reach there. They continued
walking straight looking at the lamp, separately.
One of these two continued
circling round a well the whole night and the other left the village and
reached 12 Kos (24 miles) away in a different
place (miraculously by the Grace of the Lord).
It was the next day morning when
one found himself in Dharol, a village near Jamnagar. He enquired the name of the place
from the ladies of that village, who were having pots of water over their heads.
Some of the ladies explained him that the village belonged to Mohbad ji, a
leader.
The ladies asked, “What nonsense
do you talk? Are you insane? This town is ruled by Mohbad ji; do you think it
to be yours?”
The constable returned to his
home, but his relatives were worrying about him the whole night.
In the houses of these two constables,
their relatives were waiting for the return after duty. Each one asked the
other about them.
When these constables reached
their homes in the morning, they told at home what happened. They told that the
mischievous fellow betrayed them and they could not reach the house where did
they see the lamp.
Next day they attended their duty
at the Police Station and told the Officer about the mischief played by that
man whom they would punish if he would come again.
They explained, “The mischievous
fellow aimed to kill us as he asked us to walk on and on to reach the place
where a lamp was seen, but we could not reach there.”
The Lord Shri Krishna ji showed
many miracles in order to enable the attendants to recognize “Who was Shri Devchandra
ji”, but the attendants failed to follow and no one could achieve the knowledge
to perceive the reality in respect of Shri Devchandra ji’s divinity.
Shri Mehraj Thakur appeared in
the world on the Fourteenth day of the dark half of the lunar month of Aason
(Aswin-Kunwaar), Sunday in the Vikram Samvat 1675 after the first quarter of
the day (Local time of Jamnagar was 8:53:47 AM and IST 09:43:23 AM
corresponding to Ista Kaal of 7:30 after the Sun rise time IST 6:43:23 AM).
According to Gregorian Calendar the day was 6th October 1619 (and as
per Standard calendar prevailing those days it was 9th October 1619
A D). The Vikram Samvat 1675 was as per Almanac of Gujarat, whereas as per
Northern India Almanac the year was 1676, commencing 7 months earlier in
Chaitra on the First Lunar Day after the New Moon day. #
Shri Mehraj Thakur was born in Jamnagar (Hallaar- Saurashtra of Gujarat).
His mother’s name was Smt. Dhan Bai and the father’s name was Shri Keshav
Thakur.
The eldest brother of Shri Mehraj
Thakur was Shyamal ji Thakur. His elder brother Shri Gobardhan Thakur had
already joined association of Shri Devchandra ji, his Preceptor. He became His
disciple to get enlightened by his Soul. All the brothers dwelt together.
Jamnagar
(Navtanpuri) was the residential town of Shri
Devchandra ji and Gobardhan Thakur was ever ready for
His services to please his Preceptor.
Among those, who were residing
with Shri Mehraj Thakur, Shri Gobardhan Thakur was the first person who met
Shri Devchandra ji and also saw Shri Krishna ji, who used to appear there in
person. He happened to talk with other members at his residence.
Shri Mehraj Thakur learnt every
thing from Shri Gobardhan Thakur and requested him to lead Him to reach near
the Lotus Feet of Shri Devchandra ji; but Shri Gobardhan Thakur did not agree
without the consent of his Preceptor. He said, “I can not do this without His
orders.”
But Shri Mehraj Thakur caught the
hand to accompany Shri Gobardhan Thakur at His own accord. Shri Gobardhan
Thakur did not allow and got his hand off the clutch of Shri Mehraj Thakur forcibly.
Shri Mehraj fell down and began to weep. He insisted for accompanying him.
Shri Gobardhan Thakur reached
Shri Devchandra ji’s home and requested, “Today my younger brother wept to
accompany me for arriving here, but I did not allow and escaping from Him I have
come alone.”
Shri Devchandra ji ordered, “Go
and bring Shri Mehraj. He is just of a child-age. It is an appropriate age to
learn and achieve the goal (to get enlightened and perceive Divine Wisdom).
He continued, “Dhruva (a child)
reached the Lotus Feet of the God when he was five years old. Therefore, let
Shri Mehraj come here with you.”
----------------------------------
# The birth chart (Horoscope) of
Shri Mehraj Thakur reads as follows: -
Scorpio - Ascendant 4º 05’ 14”,
Mars 20º 57’ 53” in the Star Jyestha and the Sub of Venus: Sagittarius – Rahu
20º 39’ 47” in the Star Poorvashadha and the Sub of Jupiter: Pisces – Jupiter ®
20º 27’ 33” in the Star Revati & the sub of Venus: Aries – Pluto ® 24º 00’
04” in the Star Bharni: Gemini – Saturn 4º 01’ 21” in the Star Mrigsira and the
sub of Venus: Ketu 20º 39’ 47” in the Star Punarvasu and the sub of Jupiter:
Cancer – Uranus 8º 59’ 48” in the star Pushya: Virgo – the Sun 23º 57’ 13” in
the Star Chitra and the Sub of Mars: the Moon 5º 34’ 35” in the Star
Uttraphalguni and the sub of Mercury: Venus 8º 03’ 30” in the Star
Uttraphalguni & the sub of Venus: Neptune 20º 55’ 59” in Hastha Star: Libra – Mercury 16º 05’ 42” in the Star Swanti
and the Sub of Venus.
The Navamsa Chart reads as
follow: -
The Sun was in Leo-Ascendant,
Rahu in Libra, Saturn in Scorpio, Mars & Jupiter in Capricorn, the Moon
& Mercury in Aquarius, Venus in Pisces and Ketu in Aries.
Then as per orders of his Preceptor-
Shri Devchandra ji, Gobardhan Thakur let Shri Mehraj Thakur accompany him. Shri
Mehraj reached there and prostrated at the Lotus Feet of Shri Devchandra ji who
put His Benign Hand over Shri Mehraj’s forehead to grant Him a boon of His blessings.
At the time of His meeting and
receiving the gracious boon, Shri Mehraj Thakur completed ten days more than
twelve years and two months of His age. Shri Devchandra ji at once recognized
Him as Divine Soul.
Shri Mehraj Thakur met Shri
Devchandra ji in Vikram Samvat 1687 (1631 A D). He lived as disciple till
Vikram Samvat 1712 (1655 A D). In 1712 Shri Devchandra ji departed from the
world.
Shri Mehraj Thakur’s meeting was
held on the ninth day of the bright half of the lunar month of Mrigsar of
Vikram Samvat 1687 (on 5th December, 1631 A D Friday).
At His age of four days more than
twelve years and two months, Shri Mehraj Thakur began to think to meet Shri
Devchandra ji, but he met six days later when He completed ten days more than
His age of twelve years and two months (as quoted above).
As soon as Shri Mehraj
prostrated, Lord Supreme (who was sitting in the heart of Shri Devchandra ji)
graced Him and at the same moment Shri Mehraj recognized Him as Divine Soul
having impression of consciousness concerning
with Paramdham.
Shri Devchandra ji told Him about
two eminent Divine Souls named Shakundal and Sukumar. He explained, “These two
Divine Souls’ physical bodies in Paramdham look happy and are laughing, but
they by their consciousness are involved in the dreamy world as human, whom you
have to find out.”
Shri Mehraj Thakur as per the
instructions of Sadguru (His Preceptor) decided to have a search and find out
who were these Divine Souls on the earth. He also learnt that Shri Devchandra
ji was pointing at the clues of enlightening the Divine Souls (as contained in
Quran).
When Shri Devchandra ji
recognized Khoji Bai, a Muslim lady as Divine Soul named Rai Bai Shri Mehraj
Thakur asked if the Divine Souls have appeared in Muslim community too.
Shri Devchandra ji replied,
“There are Divine Souls among the Muslim but the few. Of course, Quran, Islamic
Holy Book contains the Divine Message of the Supreme Lord, which is meant for
us, the Divine Souls of Paramdham.”
He added, “I have tried to read
the Quran, but the people having no understanding but the narrow minded
mentality, kept Quran away from me and I could not possess that Holy Book.”
“But I know” he continued, “You
shall have to decide to reveal the secrets of Quran what I tell you. You shall
do that when Lord Supreme allows you to do so in accordance with HIS PLAN to
disclose the Divine Wisdom to all the Human Beings.”
Shri Mehraj Thakur learnt from
His Preceptor the secrets and documentary proofs described in Hindus’ as well
as non-Hindus’ Holy Scriptures. And thus the seeds of the Divine Wisdom began
to sprout in the heart to enable Him to contemplate in His heart the splendid
beauty of Super Eternal Abode.
Shri Mehraj Thakur and His
brother, Shri Gobardhan Thakur continued to attend the association of the
disciples in order to adhere to the preaching of Shri Devchandra ji. They two
maintained the relation of Paramdham reciprocally and found themselves immersed
in the fluid of ‘Love’ for Shri Devchandra ji, their Preceptor.
They both used to arrive from and
go to their home accompanying each other, as they were related with the ‘Mercy’
of the Lord and also they were two real brothers in so far as the worldly
relations were concerned.
One day when they both returned
from Shri Devchandra ji’s home to their own home, the elder brother, Shyamal ji
was bathing. He spoke to them, “You two brothers have no business to do,
rather, both of you are on a wrong way.”
He added, “Your company with
Gangji Bhai and Shri Devchandra ji is not liked by me. I shall compel them to
go out of the City, then only you two will mend yourself.”
On hearing this type of
allegation, both the brothers annoyed at him and attempted to have a quarrel
with him, but their mother saved him. Their father also heard about the
dispute.
Shri Keshav Thakur, their father
spoke, “You both go to listen to the discourses being delivered by Shri
Devchandra ji, but He earlier used to listen to the discourses disseminated by
Kanji Bhatt, who has been doing the same today even in Shyam ji’s temple.”
He concluded, “You both should go
there and listen to Kanji Bhatt.” Shri Mehraj and Shri Gobardhan, then replied,
“If Kanji Bhatt has capacity to give replies to all of our queries and we are
satisfied, we shall, of course thereafter, continue listening to his
discourses.”
Shri Keshav Thakur, their father
reached Shyam ji’s temple along with Shri Mehraj and Shri Gobardhan and
expressed his desire to Kanji, “I have brought these boys (my sons) to you, as
they have anxiety to learn from you. Kindly listen to their queries carefully
and satisfy them.”
Then Shri Mehraj asked Bhatt ji,
“How many kinds of qualities (varieties of qualities) are there? How many
planes having their own planispheres exist? How many elements the universe
consists of? What are and how many kinds of annihilations happen?”
Kanji Bhatt explained, “ There
are three kinds of qualities (Sat, Raj and Tamas) and not the fourth; five
kinds of elements (Prithvi –solid, Jal –Liquid, Tej –Heat or Fire, Vayu –Air
and Aakash –the Space) of which the Universe consists and there is not the
sixth. There are fourteen planes (seven beneath the surface of the Earth
–Bhoolok and seven above, including the Bhoolok (Earth surface) and not the
fifteenth; all these are destructible in the Great and Ultimate Annihilation –Mahapralay:
there are four kinds of annihilation and not the fifth”.
Shri Mehraj then asked, “Where
the Lord Supreme, who is the ‘Super Indestructible’ has HIS Abode?” Kanji
replied, “HE abides in Kshhirsagar and on the Akshhayvat (a Tree) having physique
like a thumb.”
Shri Mehraj again asked, “Where
exists Kshhirsagar? Is the same not within fourteen planes? There are five
elements only and the same are destructible, then Kshhirsagar consists of which
element when there is no sixth; there is no fourth ‘Quality’. What kind of ‘Quality’
HE has? Where is HIS Abode?”
Then Kanji Bhatt forgot all and
replied, “Even Brahmaa –one of the three Logos, would not be able to give reply
to your query”. Then, their father also allowed them to go to where did they
like i.e. to Shri Devchandra ji’s house to listen to His discourses.
In this way these two brothers
had discussion with so many people at different places, which, Shri Laldas ji
said, could not be described. These two brothers had been expressing their love
for each other’s firmly.
Reckoned from ninth day of the
bright half of the lunar month of Mrigsar of Vikram Samvat 1687 (5th
December 1631) the day when Shri Mehraj met Shri Devchandra ji (Sadguru), the
span of 24 years 10 months and 5 days ended on the fourteenth day of the bright
half of the lunar month of Bhadrapad in Vikram Samvat 1712 (15th
September 1655).
Shri Devchandra ji departed from
the world on the ‘Fourteenth Day’ of bright half of the lunar month of
Bhadrapad in Vikram Samvat 1712 on Wednesday.
Shri Mehraj Thakur thereafter
joined services of Jamsatta, the ruler of Jamnagar
and held the post of the Manager of the Prime Minister of the State, but by
heart he led a spiritual life remembering the Lord Supreme, always by His Soul.
Swami Laldas ji explained, “Those,
who are the Divine Souls, have visualized the Lord in person and they are ever
ready to leave their bodies in performing their duties related with the soul
and for the cause of the ‘Lord Supreme’.
Prakaran
13, Chopai 579.
CHAPTER 14 – K A S O U T I.
For thirteen years after the
meeting, Shri Mehraj Thakur remained busy in the worldly affairs, but despite
the pressure of the same, He was aware of His presence in Paramdham by His Soul.
Mentally, He had been enjoying in Hoz Koshar – the lake in Paramdham, where the
Divine Souls while living in Paramdham always play ‘Love’ with their Lord. Shri
Mehraj Thakur had a remembrance of the same.
Shri Mehraj Thakur was having
daily conversation with Shri Devchandra ji in respect of the details of
Paramdham and used to enjoy while talking and making jokes for His being the
inhabitant of Paramdham.
One day, Shri Mehraj thought, “I
have, in accordance with the Divine Order of our Lord Supreme, come over here
from our Super Eternal Abode:
“It is not possible for us, the
Brahmashristies to achieve any thing unless our Lord allows us to get. I am
unable to visualize Paramdham, even though I belong to that Abode.”
He continued, “Shri Devchandra ji
has capacity to see Paramdham and every spot where the Divine Souls play
‘Love’. He describes the beauty thereof while He delivers the discourses.
“The Lord Supreme is our Spouse
even then HE does not bless to enable me to visualize the beauty of Paramdham
with the worldly eyes. Without HIS order, I shall have no vision of Paramdham.
“In this drama of the dreamy
world, HE is the Director. I can not play a role according to my own Will. I
can not see Paramdham, as I am unable to do so. Then why should I claim to have
been belonging to the Super Eternal Abode, when I am deprived of the feeling of
that Abode.”
Then Shri Mehraj Thakur concluded
himself, I am not pious and have committed many sins. Unless I abandon to
commit sins, I shall not be able to go beyond the veils of the incompetence. On
getting pious, having no vices, I shall definitely visualize Paramdham with
these eyes.”
Shri Mehraj Thakur began to
introspect just to find out if nay thing was wrong with Him and thereby, He
began to sacrifice all that He thought to be the essentials to live in the
physical body.
He also requested Shri Devchandra
ji to improve His capacity to enable Him to abandon the wrong.
Shri Devchandra ji spoke, “You
are pious and do not have any impurities. You are one of the Beloved Consorts of
the Lord Supreme and your name in Paramdham is “Indravati”.
Shri Mehraj Thakur concentrated
in His mind to follow the instructions of Sadguru Dhani Shri Devchandra ji, who
showed Him a right path.
Shri Mehraj Thakur then used to conceive
the preaching of Shri Devchandra ji and used to convey the same during His
talks to other associates.
Shri Mehraj Thakur conceived
whatsoever was spoken to Him by Shri Devchandra ji, by His heart. He made up in
His mind to follow the same very strictly treating HIS Words as ‘Divine Order’
to be obeyed.
Instead of asking others to
follow the instructions of Shri Devchandra ji, Shri Mehraj Thakur mended His
behaviour and showed other associates as to how and what instructions he was
following so that they may also tread on the right path He adopted.
Therefore, by introspection He exercised
control over His mentality and did not pay any attention to maintain His
physique despite mental torture.
He adopted dieting and reduced
His meal day by day to the extent of equal to half Anna (25 grams) during the
whole day, which resulted into declination of strength. He remained the
skeleton of bones only.
Despite physical weakness, having
pale complexion of His face, Shri Mehraj Thakur used to weep with tears running
down on hearing the description of Paramdham.
Still, Shri Mehraj Thakur was
very serious to introspect for expelling out the vices if any He noticed. He
found that the ornaments etc. of His wife were at home that He decided to lay
down at the Lotus Feet of Sadguru, Shri Devchandra ji in order to overcome the
vice of His being avaricious (attachment with hoarding the gold or wealth).
He thought that the golden
ornaments of Smt. Phool Bai, His wife might be the cause of developing the vice
of avarice (covetousness) as long as they were at home.
Shri Mehraj Thakur took them up
all and reached His Sadguru’s home. He felt relaxed after leaving the golden
ornaments near the Lotus Feet of Shri Devchandra ji.
In order to know if there were
any things, to which He may be covetous, so He used to go to Bazaar, where
varieties of the things were available (selling).
Should He find His mind would
have inclination to any particular thing, He at once got annoyed and spoke to
self, “O My Wicked Mind! Thou art still selfish even now; despite I tried my
best to control.”
In this way, He exercised the
utmost control over His mental desires. He requested repeatedly to His Sadguru,
Shri Devchandra ji that He was unable to have a full control over His mind.
He had been remembering the Lord
Supreme even while going some where. Whenever He saw some body of His
acquaintance in the way, He avoided meeting that one. He turned to other side
and passed on.
By His practice to concentrate
about the Super Eternal Abode, one day, suddenly, He had a glimpse-vision of
Paramdham. He watched rapidly one after the other spots. And also He felt
awareness of self there; hence he gave up the worldly and mental activities of looking
after the physical body, which was in fact the skeleton of bones only.
Looking at the physique of Shri
Mehraj, Balbai, the sister of Gangji Bhai drew the attention of Shri Devchandra
ji to mend the mind of Shri Mehraj, so that He could maintain a good health.
She spoke, “Shri Mehraj’s elder
brother, Gobardhan Thakur, who was fully devoted to you, has already passed
away (in Vikram Samvat 1700 or in August 1644 A D) and now it may be a turn of
his younger brother, Shri Mehraj, who does not care to maintain His health. Why you do not speak to Him to stop this and
live a happy life?”
Then Shri Devchandra ji asked, “Mehraj!
Please tell me today, what sort of plan you made up in mind?”
Shri Mehraj again repeated,
“Please show me what sort of vices are with me.” Shri Devchandra ji asked, “Have
you recognized ME who I am by my Soul?”
Shri Mehraj Thakur spoke, “When I
listen to the description of Brij from you, I find tears coming out of my
eyes.” Shri Devchandra ji remarked, “How do you keep alive yourself on
listening to the discourses which I deliver to you in respect of Brij?”
Shri Mehraj told Shri Devchandra
ji, “As long as I am attentive to listen to you in respect of our Super Eternal
Abode –Paramdham, I feel comfortable in my heart and my eyes begin to tear
because of extreme joy. I always wait for your orders.”
Then Balbai clarified, “O Mehraj!
Do you understand that Sadguru Dhani Shri Devchandra ji is a ‘Person’ in whose pious
heart Supreme Lord has HIS Sacred Abode? If you have worldly vision to
recognize Shri Devchandra ji as your Preceptor only, you can fulfil your
worldly anxieties, but when you are convinced that Lord Supreme is here in the
guise of Shri Devchandra ji, you shall have settled here forever.
“Then only you shall stay without
any worldly outlook. Of course, you would not have any doubts to ask anything.
I am sure you may carry out circumambulations around Him in order to enhance
your capacity.”
Sadguru Dhani Shri Devchandra ji
had been having the Sacred Abode of the Lord Supreme in His heart; hence He
spoke, on behalf of the Lord, “If you look at me and visualize the Lord in my
guise, you would have constant gazing to look at my face and find ecstasy in
your Soul.”
Shri Devchandra ji continued, “If
you do not know what I am, it is not any sort of demerit in you.” Shri Mehraj
replied, “I can not mention but I have numerous vices and de-morals in me.”
Shri Devchandra ji asked, “What
sort of anxieties you have in your heart?” Shri Mehraj replied,
“Because of lack of virtues, I am
not capable to have Paramdham in my vision, but you can very easily visualize
and describe the details of every spot of Paramdham.”
Shri Devchandra ji spoke to Shri
Mehraj, “I am capable to have a constant visualization of Paramdham in
accordance with the Divine Order of the Lord Supreme. The fellow, who would be
sitting on the seat where I have been, would also become capable to possess the
capacity to visualize Paramdham. Hence you may occupy this seat removing me
from here and may gain that power, but no where except this seat, the power of
the visualization of Paramdham could be achieved.
On this explanation, Shri Mehraj
gave up His anxiety of possessing a capacity to have a vision of Paramdham. His
stern desire to get visionary awareness of Paramdham remained unsatisfied. He
then diverted His mind from this motto.
Balbai then picked up the issue
to discuss with Shri Devchandra ji in respect of Shri Mehraj Thakur’s physical
condition. Shri Devchandra ji thought over the problem.
Shri Devchandra ji was requested
by Balbai, “Let Shri Mehraj be allotted some other work related with the dreamy
world, so that He may obey you and get involved in ‘Maya’.” Shri Devchandra ji then ordered Shri Mehraj
Thakur to obey Him and leave home for some particular place.
He asked Shri Mehraj to go to
Gujarat (Ahmedabad was then known as Gujarat)
and carry out the allotted work, which Shri Devchandra ji pretended to be an
important one. Shri Mehraj proceeded to Gujarat
and His desire to have a vision of Paramdham got itself diverted. He began to perform the services by His
utmost zeal.
Shri Laldas ji concluded the
chapter saying, “O Divine Souls! Please listen to me. I am going to tell you
all the events which took place in accordance with the Divine Order of the Lord
Supreme, by whose Grace I am capable to describe the same for your knowledge.”
Prakaran 14, Chopai 621.
CHAPTER 15 – ARAB YATRA.
In the following Chapter, Shri Laldas
ji has given the narration about the journey performed by Shri Mehraj Thakur to
Arabia. Shri Laldas ji says that in the year
Vikram Samvat 1703 corresponding to 1646 A D (in the month of March), Shri
Devchandra ji ordered, “ Mehraj! You
should proceed to carry out the work of Gangji Bhai, my colleague.
“Kheta Bhai, the brother of
Gangji Bhai had gone to Arabia and twenty five years passed; hence you go
immediately to bring him back to Jamnagar.
“In case he comes along with you,
he shall be useful in religious service of the Lord. For his religious service,
the credit will go to you and all sorts of religious works would be
accomplished.”
Shri Mehraj agreed to obey Shri
Devchandra ji, who spoke, “The ship journey to Arabia
is easily available: you may then start to catch the ship.”
In the month of Phalgun (March,
in the beginning of the spring season) the climatic conditions were favourable
to reach Arabia in forty days’ sea voyage.
Shri Mehraj reached Arabia.
He met Kheta Bhai and handed over
the letter to him. Kheta Bhai was very much pleased and he arranged for Shri
Mehraj’s stay with him.
Kheta Bhai’s business etc. was
taken over completely by Shri Mehraj. He spoke to Kheta Bhai, “You have earned
a lot of money having spent a major span of your life. Now you should go to
Navtanpuri and dedicate yourself to Shri Devchandra ji to perform religious
services.”
Shri Mehraj also explained to
Kheta Bhai in respect of the revelation of the Divine Wisdom – ‘Tartam’ and
also told him about His life history in order to attract him to preserve the
message of Sadguru Shri Devchandra ji, but Kheta Bhai could not conceive the
least.
Shri Mehraj Thakur thought that
Kheta Bhai, who was the brother of Gangji Bhai and the spouse of Hira Bai,
earned abundant wealth and his wealth may be used in the service of Shri
Devchandra ji and His association; hence he should be asked to proceed to Jamnagar.
Shri Mehraj Thakur had to spend
four years in Arabia in winding up the
business with some small and some big branches, in order to collect the
scattered capital; but meanwhile Kheta Bhai expired.
When Kheta Bhai expired, Shri
Mehraj was not nearby there, as He had gone to some out- station; hence
treating the property of Kheta Bhai unclaimed (who was having no heir), the
local Government confiscated the same and sealed it.
When Shri Mehraj came to know
that Officer-in-charge of Arabia Government had confiscated the property,
because of his own bad intention, He left home in the last hour of the night to
reach the place of solitude: by morning he reached a hill top and sat to think
over the matter.
Therefrom He reached the Capital
(Baghdad) to
contact the Sultan. But a period two months was wasted there; yet He did not
get any help despite lodging His complaints with various officers.
When He was returning, He
happened to meet a strange person in the garb of an Arabian citizen. Shri
Mehraj told Him the whole story. He wrote a letter addressing the Emperor.
He spoke to Shri Mehraj, “When
the Emperor would meet you, you should be bold and catch his apron to tell him
about your claim:
Speak to Sultan, “O Sultan! What
responsibility was entrusted to me, I have now to hand over to you which you
must accomplish. I shall meet you on the Day of Justice (Eid) in the presence
of Allah (the Lord Supreme) and would ask you what have you done?” The stranger advised Shri Mehraj.
Shri Mehraj therefrom again
reached the Capital, stood by the road side to await the arrival of Sultan
(Emperor), who used to pass through that way to reach the Mosque to attend
‘Nimaj’ – a kind of prayer performed by Muslim. The Emperor passed by Him. At once Shri Mehraj
rushed to contact him. He caught the Emperor’s Apron. Shri Mehraj caught one
corner of the Apron, but its binding lace got broken.
The Emperor while going on his
way had a number of bodyguards all around him. They tried to apprehend Shri
Mehraj for His behaviour with the Emperor, but the Emperor stopped them and
spoke to Shri Mehraj, “I shall hear what you have to say.”
The Emperor continued, “Do not
afraid of me or any body. Please speak in details what happened to you that you
contacted me?” Then Shri Mehraj handed over the letter to the Emperor, which
was written by the Divine Personality who met Him in the way in the garb of an
Arab. And He told the whole story.
Shri Mehraj spoke, “The
responsibility of the services I have been performing is being handed over to
you. I shall contact you to ask for the consequences in the presence of the
Allah (the Supreme Lord) when HE would permit me to do so.
“At that time your hand will be
in the hand of Allah and that ‘Day’ will be the ‘Day of Justice’ (Eid) and I
shall then ask you to impart justice.”
The Emperor was stunned to hear
what Shri Mehraj spoke. He spoke, “Except Qayamat, these words are rarely spoken
by any body.” He looked at Shri Mehraj very surprisingly.
The Emperor got his Apron off the
clutch of Shri Mehraj and looked up at the sky as if he was beholding towards
the Supreme Lord (Allah). He thought that these kinds of words have not been
spoken to me, nor I heard as spoken to me by any body.
Shri Mehraj then told the
Emperor, “I should not have said like what I spoke, but I have been harassed
too much by the local officers and I have already tried my best but all was
quite useless; hence I dared approach Your Excellency.”
The Emperor assured Shri Mehraj,
“By the Grace of Allah, I shall help you and impart Justice. You shall get your
rights. I also forgive you.” The Emperor moved on to reach the mosque for Nimaj
and Shri Mehraj reached His place of stay. In the morning, the Emperor sent his
attendant to call for Shri Mehraj.
He spoke to one of his attendants,
“Go and bring with you the person, who caught my Apron in the way yesterday. I
shall have to do justice as the matter is not related with the complaint, but I
have to impart the ‘Justice’ for the sake of Allah.”
The Emperor’s man made a thorough
search by asking every body he met in the way, “Who is that fellow who caught
the Emperor’s Apron and made complaint?”
Shri Mehraj heard that man and
came forward. He said, “I am that person whom you are seeking for. The two
persons by either side caught Shri Mehraj’s hands and presented Him in the
Emperor’s Court.
The Emperor assigned a seat to
Shri Mehraj near him and enquired from Him about His Motherland (Hindustan). He also enquired of Shri Mehraj in respect of
Islamic Religious atmosphere in Bharat.
The Emperor had a long talk in
respect of many topics. In the last he asked, “Why have you not made the
complaint to my Minister?” Shri Mehraj did not say about him but said that He
did not meet the Minister.
The Minister was very happy. Shri
Mehraj told the Emperor about one of the local officers, Seikh Salla, whom He
contacted but he did not listen to Him. The Emperor passed orders for the
compliance of Seikh Salla, whom the Emperor informed about the consequences if
he did not comply with his orders. He said:
“The whole property, which has
been confiscated, belongs to Shri Mehraj and must be given to Him at once,
otherwise the defaulting officer would meet with the rigorous punishment.”
The Emperor conveyed his orders
in writing and sent the same per messenger to Seikh Salla. The messenger
reached Seikh Salla’s house and handed over the letter of the Emperor to him.
The messenger told the officer to
comply with the order at the earliest. He said, “The Emperor asked me to convey
you that this person deserves justice; hence He must be honored properly.”
Seikh Salla unsealed the
belongings by handing over the key to Shri Mehraj along with other goods too.
He did not commit any delay.
The news about the demise of
Kheta Bhai reached Jamnagar and when Shri Devchandra ji learnt about it, He
managed to send His son Bihari ji and Gangji Bhai’s son Shyam ji to help Shri
Mehraj in Arabia, as He alone was struggling there for taking possession of the
seized property and wealth of late Kheta Bhai. Shri Mehraj ji welcomed them.
Shri Mehraj gave all the property
in their possession along with the detailed account of income and expenses
which was maintained by Him from the date of joining Kheta Bhai’s business at Arabia.
Shri Mehraj also told them the
whole story of the troubles He faced at Arabia,
but they were cunning, hence they expressed unhappiness.
When Shri Mehraj arrived at Jamnagar, Balbai, the sister of Gangji Bhai made complaint
to the ruler of Jamnagar
with certain false allegations against Shri Mehraj Thakur.
This event took place in Vikram
Samvat 1708 (1651 A D). According to the complaint of Smt. Balbai, all the
wealth of Kheta Bhai which was brought by Shri Mehraj from Arabia
was again seized by the Ruler of Jamnagar and stored in State treasury as the
same was treated unclaimed and belonging to Government.
Thereafter, Shri Devchandra ji
did not call Shri Mehraj to meet Him for a long period of two years, during
which Shri Mehraj stayed at home having an ambition to pay a visit to His
Preceptor, waiting for His call.
Neither Shri Devchandra ji called
Him nor Shri Mehraj went there at all during a period of two years, although
because of a separation from His Sadguru, Shri Mehraj had been lamenting.
Shri Mehraj thought Himself that
our Lord Supreme had arranged to have struggle in ‘Maya’, which has a strong
force. Shri Mehraj concentrated to face and undo the “Maya’s” activities by
avoiding all sorts of inclination to the worldly affairs.
Shri Laldas ji quoted example of
‘Shatruti’ a booklet – one of the fourteen books of ‘Kulzum Swaroop Sahib’
(Tartamsagar), described by Mahamati Shri Prannath ji. Shri Mehraj Thakur
narrated the agony-state experienced by a Divine Soul because of the separation
from the Lord, while living in ‘Maya’ (dreamy world). At many places in the
booklet, the followers of Pranami Religion (Sundersath) have been given an
understanding to have remembrance of the Lord, despite their failure in the
worldly affairs.
In two years’ stay at home, Shri
Mehraj did not earn any livelihood and spent the days leisurely; hence one day
elder brother’s wife taunted. Next day morning, Shri Mehraj left for Dharol, a
nearby town.
There He met Kallaji, the ruler
of the town and requested for a job to earn for His livelihood.
Kallaji kept Him in his
employment for two years. Thereafter He spent eight months in Gujarat.
From Gujarat
(Ahmedabad), He again met Kallaji at Dharol and requested for His relief from
the service. It happened in Vikram Samvat 1712 (1655 A D).
Shri Mehraj expressed, “I am
unable to carry out any worldly affairs, but I have intention in my heart to
resume the physical service to please my Preceptor.
Kallaji agreed and said, “You are
competent to discontinue the job. Select some body and hand over your charge to
him.”
Meanwhile, those days, Shri
Devchandra ji experienced His conscious presence in Paramdham. He remembered
Shri Mehraj Thakur, “Send for Shri Mehraj in front of me.”
Balbai, the sister of Gangji Bhai
approached Shri Mehraj to convey the message of Shri Devchandra ji. He replied,
“I shall come very soon after handing over the job in hand.”
Again Bihari ji arrived at Dharol
and asked Shri Mehraj for some herbal medicines like, Amber, Kasturi, which
Shri Mehraj listened to patiently.
Shri Mehraj arranged the herbal
medicines and delivered them to Shri Bihari ji, whom He said, “Tomorrow morning
I shall present myself at the Lotus Feet of Sadguru Shri Devchandra ji.”
Shri Mehraj attempted to complete
the job in hand as early as possible. He decided to leave at the earliest.
After a lapse of a few days, Shri
Devchandra ji sent Bihari ji again to Dharol for bringing Shri Mehraj Thakur
with him without any delay.
Shri Devchandra ji said to the
associates in Sindhi language, “Muhn-Muhn Kod Matthan” – means “Had I possessed
crores of mouths in crores of heads over my shoulders, I would have talked with
Shri Mehraj with every mouth I would have had.”
Shri Devchandra ji repeated the
saying of Shri Mehraj, “If I would have crores of bodies, each body would have
had crores of heads, each head had crores of mouths and each mouth had crores
of tongues.
“Each tongue would have counted
the virtues of Dhani Shri Devchandra ji, even then I could have not been able
to count the same.”
Once more Bihari ji came to Shri
Mehraj and instead of conveying the message of Shri Devchandra ji, he simply
told that his father was ailing; hence some herbal medicines were urgently required.
Shri Mehraj ji again said, “I
shall come there. Some sort of job remained to be done. I am going to hand over
the same to my successor.”
Shri Devchandra ji had an anxiety
to meet Shri Mehraj Thakur. He repeatedly asked for Shri Mehraj, whom He waited
for a long.
Bihari ji told a lie to Shri
Devchandra ji that He unnecessarily remembered Shri Mehraj while despite
repeated requests He did not come. He created a problem without any solution to
satisfy the anxiety of Shri Devchandra ji by telling lie.
Again Shri Devchandra ji spoke to
Bihari ji, “You go again to bring Him along with you. I find that the Divine
Soul of ‘Shri Indravati’ (Shri Mehraj Thakur) was lamenting near the entrance
door of Paramdham.
The content of this issue is that Shri Devchandra ji had in His mind that Shri
Mehraj would be the ‘Authorised Successor’, whom He should give an
understanding to continue the religious work. It was, therefore, not possible
for Him to leave the world as Shri Mehraj would have lamented later on.
Smt. Balbai, the sister of Gangji
Bhai heard these words. She could not rest. She rushed to inform Shri Mehraj
about the condition of Shri Devchandra ji. She spoke, “What happened to you?
Mehraj! You did not adhere to any of the calls of Sadguru, who sent messengers
a number of times.
“Shri Devchandra ji remembered
you again and again. He said that He would not go to Paramdham unless you reach
Him.”
Shri Mehraj revealed, “No body
has told me this thing clearly. I could have arrived there, if I have had heard
the true story.”
After handing over the charge of
His post to one of His assistants, He informed Kallaji and left Dharol for Jamnagar to see Sadguru.
The day was ‘Eighth Day’ of the
dark fortnight of the lunar month of Shravan prevailing in Gujarat (it was the
day of Janmashtmi in the lunar month of Bhadrapad as per North India Almanac)
of the Vikram Samvat 1712 (25th August 1655 A D), when Shri Mehraj
met Shri Devchandra ji (after a lapse of four years).
Shri Laldas ji says that the
event related with Jamnagar
(Navtanpuri) has been narrated in this Chapter. One while remembering it would
not have any doubts in one’s mind.
Prakaran 15 – Chopai
692