Koduri had arranged a fireworks display outside; but even the children, instead of going out and enjoying them, remained in the pandal gazing at Baba. At ten o'clock, Baba's arti was performed. Koduri had made arrangements for Baba and the mandali to stay in houseboats on the Godavri, and Baba proceeded there an hour later. Baba's boat had electric lights, as well as other amenities provided for his comfort. The mandali stayed in three other launches. As they boarded the boats with their bedding rolls, Hellan slipped and fell into the waist-deep water and his bedding roll floated away. The boats were taken to the opposite bank of the river where it would be more peaceful and quiet. Thus Baba and the mandali rested on the waters of the Godavri, after a long day of extensive traveling.
They had breakfast in the boats the next morning, Saturday, 27 February 1954. Savak Kotwal was in charge of the food and tea arrangements. Thinking that Koduri had already sent Baba's breakfast to his boat, Savak did not send it and prepared only enough for the mandali. Another boat was attached to Baba's, where Eruch, Chhagan, Sidhu and Meherjee slept, so Savak assumed they would see to Baba's needs.
But it turned out that nothing had been sent to Baba. At 7:20 A.M., Baba walked onto the bank of the river where, highly displeased, he castigated Savak. Pendu and Bhau, too, did not escape his biting criticism, as Pendu was the controller and Bhau his assistant.
“”Baba commanded Koduri, "Fasten a heavy stone around Savak's neck and throw him into the river!"
Koduri was frightened by Baba's display of temper, and with folded hands stood quietly. Savak approached him and said, "Please carry out Baba's order." Koduri was absolutely taken aback and was in a quandary about what to do. He had never come across a person so willing to die.
Sensing his confusion, Baba consoled him not to worry. But the event affected Koduri very much. Never before had he heard of or witnessed such an occurrence. It was a lifelong lesson to the one who later established the Mehersthan Center in Kovvur. This event will inspire the world to be prepared to obey the Avatar at all costs, and make them bow their heads in humility at his feet.
The boats were taken back to the other bank, where many people were standing, exclaiming Meher Baba's glory. He was elaborately received and proceeded to the darshan tent, where his arti was sung. Baba went up onto the dais, but coming down after a few minutes, sat on the floor for a while. His Vijayawada messages were read out and also the message about making Baba one's "Constant Companion" (which had been sent to Koduri from Dehra Dun).
