On Sunday, 17 November 1968, Baba called the main workers of the Ahmednagar Center and discussed with them about giving darshan to his Ahmednagar District, Aurangabad and Beed lovers.1 It was decided that before proceeding to Guruprasad next summer, Baba would give darshan to them in Meherazad for seven days, from 1–10 February 1969.2
During this period, Baba accepted a humble service from his Ahmednagar lovers by allowing them to fulfill their wish to send food to Meherazad for himself and the mandali. One Sunday, Bade Pleader of Pathardi sent food; the next Pilamai of Daulat Lodge (a local restaurant and hotel); Prem Khilnani's wife, Girja, also sent lunch occasionally. Once, Baba asked Kokila to send dal for him. Then, according to his wish, Chhagan began preparing food for Baba and bringing it to Meherazad every Sunday. Rama would send bhujias for Baba and the mandali every other week, and channa baji (cooked green leaves from the chickpea plant) once a week, as well as other eatables that Baba would request from time to time.
These may appear insignificant incidents, but because these were the final days they assumed great significance, and their memory was imprinted on the minds and hearts of the lovers concerned.
Baba also took great interest in it, and when the food was received he would ask, "Now who will send it next Sunday?"
On 19 November, Baba had Usha Bhasker send sambhar and rice.
She did so, but after eating only two mouthfuls, Baba said "I am full."
This was surprising, as Baba always enjoyed this dish, but his health was not good and he had no appetite.
Later that day in the hall, Baba instructed Feram to write down in shorthand as he translated a couplet of Hafiz to Eruch describing the Infinite Vacuum state. Baba translated Hafiz:
Abodelessness is my Abode, Signlessness is my sign, My body does not exist, My heart does not exist, Even God does not exist!
Baba added, "Everyone before Realization must pass through this state [nirvan], and immediately after passing through it must realize God."
Footnotes
- 1.In attendance at the meeting were: Adi, Sarosh, Chhagan, Padri, Rangole, Waman, Bhagirath, Rustom Kaka, Manek and Bade.
- 2.On 3 December 1968, Baba changed the dates and curtailed the time of the Ahmednagar District darshan to three days, from 1–3 March 1969.