It was about 3:00 P.M. and time for darshan. Only a few Bombay lovers had been informed, but somehow a large crowd had collected on the staircase, not only of Bombay lovers but also lovers from Andhra, Hamirpur, Nagpur, Poona, Navsari and a few other places. All were particularly anxious for Baba's darshan, as he was to go into seclusion for a year from the following week; hence, this was their last chance to see him before then.
At 3:00 P.M., the doors to the first-floor apartment were opened, and people were admitted one by one. Persons from all communities were present — Parsis, Iranis, Muslims, Hindus, Christians and others. "No distinction of caste or creed exists among those who take hold of Baba's daaman," Age explains. "With Baba, being God in human form, there is no question of any religion or caste. The universe belongs to him; he alone is omnipresent. How could any distinction be maintained among those longing to imbibe the nectar of his love? All differences of religion, sect and race merge in him."
Baba gave darshan continuously. This time, he did not give prasad, but he would occasionally pat some, joke with others, or inquire about their health. All of his Bombay lovers were embedded deep in his love and dear to him.
Baba stopped the darshan after two hours. Almost 700 men, women and children had come. Clarice and Ena had been sitting by Baba and were drowned in his love.
“”At 5:00 P.M., Baba stated, "All Bombay lovers should leave. Those from out of town may stay on."
Accordingly, the Bombay lovers left, and Baba addressed the Andhra and Hamirpur lovers: "Without fail, I want you all to return to your homes today!"
He spoke for a few minutes more, and then it was the turn of the Poona lovers.
“”Madhusudan first sang songs, and Baba urged the Poona group, "I am retiring into seclusion for one year from 15 February. During this time, I tell you all not to spare any pains for the work entrusted to you."
Addressing Madhusudan, he continued, "You have composed bhajans, an arti and songs in my praise, and there are hundreds of lovers at distant places who hear and sing your compositions. These have helped them to love me more and more. So remain as active as ever, and do my work in Poona with love, enthusiasm, zeal and devotion, knowing that Poona is my birthplace."
