Despite his promise, Asar had written to Baba saying he was leaving him as he desired "another connection," implying another guru. It is possible that Baba's outward expression of anger toward Dowla Masi was meant for Asar's benefit. Nevertheless, Dowla Masi was fortunate to have withstood her nephew's wrath and to have received his "prasad."
Soon after, Masaji was sent to the bazaar, and everything for the birthday celebration was cooked again by Dowla Masi.
Baba's birthday was anticipated with much excitement and joy. The festivities were scheduled for Monday, 19 February. As the day dawned, many invited guests began pouring into the Manzil. The atmosphere was full of happy animation. Naval decorated the Manzil, its compound and the pandal; flowerpots were arranged and young saplings beautified the grounds. Cascades of flowers were hung around the house, and a special velvet sofa was brought for the Master and splendidly decorated by Munshiji. The scene was quite lovely and breezes swung the sheets of flowers, wafting their fragrance throughout the premises.
When Baba was requested to occupy the sofa, however, he refused on several pretexts. After great beseeching, he entered the pandal but sat on the floor, where he was profusely garlanded. A mound of sweet-smelling flowers was laid before him. Despite Baba's unwillingness, his friends, relatives and admirers showered him with various beautiful gifts, which he distributed among the people present.
In the evening Munshiji approached the Master with the hope that he would occupy the sofa if he insisted. But Baba remained adamant and Munshiji had to be content with garlanding him where he sat. The evening brought more guests from Poona, including Usman Khan, Abdulla Haroon Jaffer, Dr. Abdur Rehman (Ghani's younger brother), Elim and approximately 200 other persons.1
Baba ate with everyone seated on the floor under the pandal. The lunch and dinner were exceptionally delicious, and this time Dowla Masi's cooking was complimented by Baba. After dinner, a qawaali program began. Three singers had been called, but only one, Yasin, sang until the last, pleasing Baba and all with his touching renditions. This program lasted until 4:30 in the morning, and all heartily enjoyed it in Baba's radiant presence.
The next day, Baba had a private meeting with Daulatmai, Gulmai and her son, Rustom. Baba asked Daulatmai, "Are you willing to marry your daughter Piroja [Freiny] to Rustom?" Daulatmai agreed, as this arrangement had been planned for some months.
Footnotes
- 1.Abdur Rehman was a veterinarian.