As there was no palanquin, Baba was carried in his gaadi on the men mandali's shoulders. All were so engrossed in utter joy that they forgot themselves and lifted Baba with such abandon that he fell off the gaadi and landed in a thicket. Baba kept smiling, despite being hurt, and eventually the procession returned to Meher Ashram.
Cricket was played there and though Baba was still fasting, he played energetically on both sides. According to the tradition of the day, an earthen pot containing yogurt was hung at a height and smashed with a stick, and there was a scramble by the boys to taste some of the curd. Photographs of the ashram group were taken by G. M. Shah, and afterward Baba served food to all.
The next day, more photographs were taken — one of Baba with Murli, and another of Baba, Chhota Baba and the mandali in the boat. Photographs of Baba with all the Prem Ashram and Meher Ashram boys were arranged, as well as separate photographs of Baba as Krishna. Despite having few materials on hand to work with, the women had made a beautiful crown for Baba. The guests actually believed it to be a real jeweled crown. Ramjoo's sister, Amina Jaffer, was so impressed, she mused, "One day I too shall adorn you, Baba, in a splendid outfit."1
The Master broke his long fast on Krishna's birthday by eating a little rice and dal, but began fasting again two days later. Besides singing his arti, the boys had also begun washing Baba's feet every night with milk.
Three days after this (13 September), Baba discontinued taking milk tea and remained on only a cup of sherbet, fruit juice, or weak black tea. This fast lasted continuously for the next 43 days.
It was Baba's order for all to take a lantern while going out at night in the dark. On the night of 10 September, Meherjee went out to urinate, but forgot his lamp. His mistake had its immediate consequence, for a large scorpion, which he would have otherwise seen, stung him. The whole night, he reeled with pain and restlessness, and because of this incident, he never forgot the lesson of what happens when the Master's word is not honored. Edke was also stung by a scorpion that same night.
Gustadji's brother, Homi Hansotia, who was living in Toka at this time, knew certain mantras which were said to alleviate the pain of a scorpion's sting.
Footnotes
- 1.Years later, Amina did dress Baba in an Arab robe and headdress.