Shri Sai Chalisa and Charitha is one of the hymns chanted in prayer to and praise of Shri Sai Baba in Shridi, Maharashtra, India. The original author of Shri Sai Chalisa could not be ascertained.
The Devanagari script, English transliteration and a simple English translation are provided in this narrative.
Origin
श्री साँई के चरणों में, अपना शीश नवाऊं मैं
कैसे शिरडी साँई आए, सारा हाल सुनाऊ मैं (1)
shree Saai kae charaNo mein, apnaa sheesh namaaun mein
kaise shirdi Saai aaye, saara haal sunaaun mein
I humbly bow my head and surrender at the feet of Shri Sai Baba, our God; I explain how Shri Sai Baba had arrived at Shirdi.
कौन है माता, पिता कौन है, यह न किसी ने भी जाना
कहां जन्म साँई ने धारा, प्रश्न पहेली रहा बना (2)
kaun hai maatha, pitha kaun hai, yah na kisee nae bhi jaanaa,
kahaan janam Saai nae Dhaara, prashna pahaelee rahaa banaa.
None of the people knows who is the Mother and who is the Father of Shri Sai Baba. From the beginning, the details of where Shri Sai Baba was born has remained a mystery.
कोई कहे अयोध्या के, ये रामचन्द्र भगवान हैं
कोई कहता साँई बाबा, पवन-पुत्र हनुमान हैं (3)
koi kahae ayodhya kae, ye ramachandhra bhagvaan hain
koi kehtha Saai baabaa, pavan-puthra hanumaan hain
Some persons say that Shri Sai Baba has come from Ayodhya (the birthplace of Lord Shri Rama). They also consider Him as another avathar (incarnation) of Lord Shri Rama. Some persons say that Shri Sai Baba is Lord Shri Hanuman, the son of Vayu (wind).
कोई कहता मंगल मूर्ति, श्री गजानन हैं साँई।
कोई कहता गोकुल-मोहन, देवकी नन्द्न हैं साँई (4)
koi kehtha mangal moorthi, shree gajaanan hain Saai,
koi kehtha gokul-mohan, dhaevki nandhan hain Saai.
Some persons say that Shri Sai Baba is the incarnation of Lord Ganesha, the auspicious Deity. Some persons say that Shri Sai Baba is the son of Devaki, Lord Krishna who was the love of Gokul, the place where Shri Krishna was brought up.
शंकर समझ भक्त कई तो, बाबा को भजते रहते
कोई कह अवतार दत्त का, पूजा साँई की करते (5)
shankar samajh bhaktha kayee thoa, baabaa koa bhajhthe rahthe,
koi kahe avathaar daththa kaa, poojaa Saai kee karthe.
The several devotees of Lord Shri Shankar (Lord Shiva) worship Shri Sai Baba identifying Him as Lord Shiva. Several others say that Shri Sai Baba is the avathar of Shri Dathathreya, the Lord of Yoga and First spiritual Guru. They perform prayers to Shri Sai Baba considering thus.
कुछ भी मानो उनको तुम, पर साँई हैं सच्चे भगवान
बड़े दयालु, दीनबन्धु, कितनों को दिया जीवनदान (6)
kuCh bhee maanoa unkoa thum, par Sai hain sachchae bhagvaan
badae dhayaalu dheen-banDhu, kithnoa ko dhiyaa jeevan-daaan
Irrespective of what you consider or believe him to be, Shri Sai Baba is the true God. He is very benevolent and is close to poor and downtrodden. He has blessed life to innumerable persons.
कई बरस पहले की घटना, तुम्हें सुनाऊंगा मैं बात
किसी भाग्यशाली की शिरडी में, आई थी बारात (7)
kayee baras pehle ki ghatnaa, thumhae sunaaungaa main baath
Kisee bhagyashaali kee, shirdi main aayee Thee baaraath.
I will describe the details of an incident which happened long ago. Some person who has had the utmost luck and the blessings had his marriage procession passing through Shirdi.
Sri Sai’s arrival at Shirdi
आया साथ उसी के था, बालक एक बहुत सुनदर
आया, आकर वहीं बद गया, पावन शिरडी किया नगर (8)
aaya saaTh usee kae Thaa, baalak aik bohuth sundhar
aaya aakar vahin badh gayaa, paavan shirdee kiyaa nagar.
An extremely handsome young boy had come alongwith the marriage procession. On reaching Shirdi, He had decided to stay there and made Shirdi a Holy and Sacred place.
कई दिनों तक रहा भटकता, भिक्षा मांगी उसने दर-दर।
और दिखाई ऎसी लीला, जग में जो हो गई अमर (9)
kayee dhinon thak rahaa bhatakthaa bhikShaa maangee usnae dhar dhar
aur dhikhai aisee leelaa jag main joa hoa gayee amar
That young boy was going around Shirdi. He took alms from door to door (like a sanyasi seeking bhiksha – not possessing anything). He had also performed very good holy miracles. His glory was being discussed and spread eternally around the world.
जैसे-जैसे उमर बढ़ी, बढ़ती ही वैसे गई शान
घर-घर होने लगा नगर में, साँई बाबा का गुणगान (10)
jaisae-jaisae umar baDi, badthi hee vaisae gaee shaan
ghar ghar hoanae lagaa nagar main Saai baabaa kaa guNgaan.
While that young boy was growing up, his popularity, fame and glory also were getting widespread. Every household in Shirdi had started chanting the good attributes of Shri Sai Baba.
दिग दिगन्त में लगा गूंजने, फिर तो साँई जी का नाम
दीन मुखी की रक्षा करना, यही रहा बाबा का काम (11)
dhig dhiganth main lagah goonjanae phir thoa Saai-jee kaa naam
dheen-dhukhee kee rakShaa karnaa yahee rahaa baabaa kaa kaam
All the directions and corners of the universe had vibrated with the echo emanating from the chants of Shri Sai Baba’s name. The primary work of Shri Sai Baba is the protection of the poor & the downtrodden and alleviation of their pains.
बाबा के चरणों जाकर, जो कहता मैं हूं निर्धन
दया उसी पर होती उनकी, खुल जाते द:ख के बंधन (12)
baabaa kae charNoa main jaa-kar, joa kehthaa main hoon nirDhan
dhayaa usee par hoathee un-kee khul jaathae dhukh kae banDhan
When an impoverished person seeks refuge in the holy feet of Shri Sai Baba, such poor person is blessed with kindness and benevolence. He is relieved of all the restraining ties of burden and pain.
Miracles
कभी किसी ने मांगी भिक्षा, दो बाबा मुझ को संतान।
एवं अस्तु तब कहकर साँई, देते थे उसको वरदान (13)
kabhee kisee nae maangee bhikShaa doa baabaa mujh ko sunthaan
avuM asthu thava kehkar Saai dhaethe Thae usko vardaaan
Some other time, when a childless woman had asked Shri Sai Baba for a blessing of a child, Shri Sai Baba had said “Avum Asthu” meaning “let it happen” and blessed her with the boon.
स्वयं दु:खी बाबा हो जाते, दीन-दुखी जन का लख हाल
अंत:करन भी साँई का, सागर जैसा रहा विशाल (14)
swayaM dukhee baabaa hoa jaathae dheen-dukhee jan kaa lakh haal
anthah karan bhee Saai kaa saagar jaisaa rahaa vishaal
When Shri Sai Baba beholds the sight of the poor and sick people, He himself grieves. The holy soul of Shri Sai Baba is as vast and large as the ocean.
Devotee from South India
भक्त एक मद्रासी आया, घर का बहुत बड़ा धनवान
माल खजाना बेहद उसका, केवल नहीं रही संतान (15)
bhakth aek madhraasee aayaa ghar kaa bohuth badaa Dhanvaan
maal khajaanaa baehadh uskaa keval nahin rahi sunthaan
A devotee from South India who was wealthy, rich and prosperous had visited Shri Sai Baba. Though the said devotee had all the worldly treasures, he had lacked a child and had a longing for the same.
लगा मनाने साँईनाथ को, बाबा मुझ पर दया करो
झंझा से झंकृत नैया को, तुम ही मेरी पार करो (16)
lagaa manaanae Saai-naaTh ko baabaa mujh par dhayaa karo
jhanjha sae jhankruth naiyaa ko thum hee maeree paar karo
That childless rich man had begged for the kindness of Shri Sai Baba. He tried to convince Shri Sai Baba of his predicament. He told Shri Sai Baba that his life was a boat in turbulent and troubled waters and he sought Shri Sai Baba’s help to come ashore.
कुलदीपक के बीना अंधेरा, छया हुआ घर में मेरे
इसे लीये आया हूं बाबा होकर शरनागत तेरे (17)
kuldheepak kae beenaa anDhaeraa Chayaa huaa ghar mein maerae
isee leeyae aayaa hoon baabaa hoakar sharnaagath thaerae
That childless rich man had said that without an heir to sustain the family’s generations, there was darkness spreading at his home. He also said that he had come to Shri Sai Baba to offer himself unconditionally at the feet of Shri Sai Baba.
कुलदीपक के अभाव में, व्यर्थ है दौलत की माया
आज भिखारी बनकर बाबा, शरण तुम्हारी मैं आया (18)
kuldheepak kae abhaav main vyarTha hai dhaulath kee maayaa
aaj bhikhaaree bankar baabaa sharaN thumharee main aaya
He had further said that his life is a wasteful existence in the absence of a progeny and that his wealth is meaningless. He ardently prayed ” Shri Sai Baba, in spite of my wealth, I had come to you as a beggar; I have taken refuge at you, please help me”.
दे दे मुझको पुत्र दान, मैं ऋणी रहूंगा जीवन भर
और किसी की आश न मुझको, सिर्फ भरोसा है तुम पर (19)
dhae dhae mujhko puthra dhaan main RuNee rahoongaa jeevan bhar
aur kisee kee aash na mujhkoa sirf bharosaa hai thum par
He had further requested ” Shri Sai Baba, please bless me with a child. I will ever be indebted and grateful to you in my entire life. I do not have hope or faith in anyone else. I earnestly put my trust only in you”
अनुनय-विनय बहुत की उसने, चरणों में धर के शीश
तब प्रसन्न होकर बाबा ने दिया भक्त को यह आशीष (20)
anunaya vinaya bahuth kee usnae CharaNoan main Dhar kae sheesh
thab prasann hoakar baabaa nae dhiyaa bhaktha koa yah aasheeSh
He had devoutly with all surrender and submission had prayed to Shri Sai Baba. He had bowed his head to the feet of Shri Sai Baba. Shri Sai Baba was convinced by the humility and the sincerity. Then He gave the said devotee this blessing.
Shri Sai’s blessings
अल्ला भला करेगा तेरा, पुत्र जन्म हो तेरे घर
कृपा रहे तुम पर उसकी, और तेरे उस बालक पर (21)
allaa bhalaa karaegaa thaeraa puthra janma hoa thaerae ghar
krupaa rahae thum par uski aur thaerae uss baalak par
Allah shall do the good thing to you. A child shall be born at your home. God’s kindness shall always be with you. The kindness shall also be with your Child.
अब तक नहीं किसी ने पाया, साँई की कृपा का पार
पुत्र रतन दे मद्रासी को, धन्य किया उसका संसार (22)
ab thak naheen kisee nae paayaa Saai kee krupaa kaa paar
puthra rathna dhae madhraasee koa Dhanya keeyaa uskaa sansaar
Till today, no person has ascertained anything which surpasses the kindness of Shri Sai Baba. By providing a gift of a child to the South Indian devotee, Shri Sai Baba had granted a magnificent boon to his life.
तन-मन से जो भजे उसी का, जग में होता है उद्धार
सांच को आंच नहीं है कोई, सदा झूठ की होती हार (23)
than-man sae jo bhajae usee kaa jag main hoathaa hai udhDhar
saanch koa aanch naheen hai koi sadhaa jhooT kee hoathee haar
Any person devoutly chanting the name of Shri Sai Baba always experiences all the benefits of this world. Truth is never faced with any kind of threat. Treachery and lies are always defeated.
मैं हूं सदा सहारे उसके सदा रहूंगा उसका दास
साँई जैसा प्रभु मिला है इतनी की कम है क्या आद (24)
main hoon sadhaa sahaarae uskae sadhaa rahoongaa uskaa dhaas
Saai jaisaa prabhu milaa hain ithnee kee kum hai kyaa aadh
I live and survive because of the kindness and support of Shri Sai Baba. I shall always remain his ardent devotee and a servant. Shri Sai Baba is my God and I have found Him. This blessing itself is a tremendous faith and hope for me.
मेरा भी दिन था इक ऎसा, मिलती नहीं मुझे थी रोटी
तन पर कपड़ा दूर रहा था, शेष रही नन्ही सी लंगोटी (25)
maera bhee dhin Thaa ek aisa milthee nahin mujhe bhee rotee
than par kapda dhoor raha Thaa shaeSh rahee nanhi see langotee
I also had a phase like this once in my life whence I could not get any roti (food) to eat. On my body, I did not have good clothes to cover; I only had a meagre loin cloth (langoti – a piece of dhoti)
सरिता सन्मुख होने पर भी, मैं प्यासा का प्यासा था
दुर्दिन मेरा मेरे ऊपर, दावाग्नि बरसाता था (26)
sarithaa sanmukh hoanae par bhee main pysassa ksa pysassa Thaa
dhurdhin maera maere ooper dhaavaagni barssathaa Thaa
The flowing river was in front of me. However, I had remained thirsty. My phase of misfortunes had showered upon me the miseries like flaming fires.
धरती के अतिरिक्त जगत में, मेरा कुछ अवलम्ब न था
बिना भिखारी में दुनिया में, दर-दर ठोकर खाता था (27)
Dharthee kae athirikth jagath main maera kuCh avalamb na Thaa
binaa bhikharee main dhuniyaa main dhar dhar Toakar khatha Thaa
In the whole of the universe, I had no place to take solace / refuge except the land (no other go but to be buried). I had become a seeker of alms in this world; I suffer from hurt and attacks from everywhere.
ऐसे में इक मित्र मिला जो, परम भक्त साँई का था
जंजालों से मुक्त, मगर इस, जगती में वह मुझसा था (28)
aise main ik mithra mila joa param bhakth Saai kaa Thaa
janjaaloan sae mukta magar eis jagthi main vah mujhsaa Thaa
At such a situation, I had met a friend of mine; He was an ardent devotee of Shri Sai Baba. He was liberated of troubles in his life; However, the circumstances appeared that he was just like me.
बाबा के दर्शन के खातिर, मिल दोनों ने किया विचार
साँई जैसे दयामूर्ति के दर्शन को हो गए तैयार (29)
baabaa kae dharshan kae khaathir mil dhonon nae kiyaa vichaar
Saai jaise dhaya-moorthi kae dharshan koa hoa gaiyae thaiyaar
For the purpose of seeking and having the darshan of Shri Sai Baba, we (myself and my friend) thought, discussed and planned together. Shri Sai Baba is the embodiment of kindness and benevolence. We were ready for visiting Shri Sai Baba.
पावन शिरडी नगर में जाकर, देखी मतवाली मूर्ति
धन्य जन्म हो गया कि हमने, जब धेकहि साईं की सूरति (30)
paavan shirdee nagar main jaakar dekhee mathvaalee moorthi
Dhanya janm hoa gayaa ki humnae jab Dhaekhi Saai kee soorthi
We went to the holy city of Shirdi and were blessed with the vision and darshan of Shri Saai Baba Murthy. We were humbled that our birth and life were blessed the moment we beheld the vision of His divine appearance.
जबसे किये है दर्शन हमने, दु:ख सारा काफूर हो गया
संकट सारे मिठे और, विपदाओं का अंत हो गया (31)
jabsae kiyae hai dharshan humnae dukh saaraa kaaphoor hoa gayaa
sankat saarae mithae aur vipdhaaoan kaa anth hoa gayaa
The moment we were blessed with the darshan of Shri Saai Baba, our sorrows had withered away. All our problems had disappeared and our hardships had ended.
मान और सम्मान मिला, भिक्षा में हमको बाबा से
प्रति बिंबित हो उठे जगत में, हम साँई की आभा से (32)
maan aur sammaan milaa bhikShaa main humkoa baabaa sae
prathi bambith hoa uTae jagath main hum Saai kee aabhaa sae
We were blessed and endowed with devotion and amazement with the darshan of Shri Saai Baba. This is the utmost benevolent endowment blessed by Shri Saai Baba.
बाबा ने सम्मान दिया है, मान दिया इस जीवन में
इसका ही सम्बल ले मैं, हंसता जाऊंगा जीवन में (33)
baabaa nae sanmaan dhiyaa hai maan dhiya eis jeevan main
eiskaa hee sambal lae main haMsathaa jaaungaa jeevan main
Shri Sai Baba has granted us integrity, honor and esteem in our lives. We take refuge in His benevolent shelter of protection and shall be blessed and happy for the lifetime.
साँई की लीला का मेरे, मन पर ऎसा असर हुआ
लगता, जगती के कण- कण मैं, जैसे हो वह भरा हुआ (34)
saai kee leelaa kaa maerae man par aisaa asar huaa
lagthaa, jagthee kae kaN-kaN main jaisae hoa vah bharaa huaa
The divinely blessed actions of Shri Sai Baba have tremendous impact in my thoughts. They guide my life. I can consciously understand that each and every place & space in this world is blessed with the greatness of Shri Sai Baba.
Kaashiram
”काशीराम” बाबा का भक्त, इस शिरडी में रहता था
मैं साँई का साँई मेरा, वह दुनिया से कहता था (35)
‘kaashiraam’ baabaa kaa bhakth, iss shirdee main rehthaa Thaa
mai Saai kaa Saai maeraa vah dhuniyaa sae kehthaa Thaa
Sri Kashiram was a passionate devotee of Shri Sai Baba. He was living in Shirdi. He used to recite to one and all in the universe as “ I belong to Shri Sai Baba and Shri Sai Baba belongs to me”.
सींकर स्वयं वस्त्र बेचता, ग्राम नगर बाजारों में
झंकृत उसकी हृद तंत्री थी, साँई की झनकारों में (36)
seenkar svayaM vasthra baechthaa graam nagar baajaaroan main
jhankrith uskee hridh thanthree Thee Saai kee jhankaaroan sae
He was stitching the dresses and used to sell in the markets of the villages and cities. His heartbeats reverberated the divine voice of Shri Sai Baba.
स्तब्ध निशा थी, थे सोये, रजनी आंचल में चांद सितारे
नहीं सूझता रहा हाथ, को हाथ तिमिर के मारे (37)
sthabDh nishaa Thee Thae soayae rajnee aanchal mein chaandh sithaarae
naheen soojhthaa rahaa haaTh koa haaTh thimir kae maare
Though the moon was shining and the stars were glittering, the night was very dark. The darkness was such that it was not able to locate one hand from the other.
वस्त्र बेचकर लौट रहा था, हाय! हाट से काशी
विचित्र बड़ा संयोग कि उस दिन, आता था वह एकाकी (38)
vasthra baech-kar laut rahaa Thaa haai! haat sae kaashee
vichithra badaa sanyoaga ki uss dhin aathaa Thaa ekaakee
In that dark night, Sri Kashiram was back from the market after selling his garments. Astonishingly, he was quite alone and on his own.
घेर राह में खड़े हो गए, उसे कुटिल अन्यायी
मारो काटो लूटो इसको, ही ध्वनि पड़ी सुनाई (39)
ghaer raah main khadae hoa gaaye ussae kutil anyaayee
maaro kaatoa lootoa iskoa hee Dhvani padee sunaayee
In the pathway, he was suddenly stopped by a few persons who appeared deceitful and ruthless. Sri Kashiram could hear only word such as “” beat him, bash him, rob from him”.
लूट पीटकर उसे वहां से, कुटिल गये चम्पत हो
आघातों से मर्माहत हो, उसने दी थी संज्ञा खो (40)
loot peet-kar usse vahaan sae kutil gayae champath hoa
aaghathoan sae marmaahath hoa usne dhee sangya khoa
The thieves had beaten up Sri Kashiram, looted from him and left the place. He had received severe injuries, wounds and lesions. Due to the severity, he had lost his consciousness.
बहुत देर तक पड़ा रहा वह, वहीं उसी हालत में
जाने कब कुच होश हो उता, उसको केसी पलक में (41)
bahuth dher thak padaa rahaa vah vaheen usee haalath main
jaanae kab kuch hoash hoa uthaa uskoa kisee palak main
He was lying without consciousness for a very long time. After a long time, he had gradually recuperated without himself being aware of it.
अनजाने ही उसके मुंह से, निकल पड़ा था साईं
जिसकी प्रतिध्वनि शिर्डी में, बाबा को पड़ी सुनाई (42)
anjaanae hee uskae mumh sae nikal padaa Thaa Saai
jiskiee prathi-Dhvani shirdee main baabaa koa padee sunaai
He had blurted incoherently and even without his consciousness; he had recited the name of Shri Sai Baba. His appealing prayer voice had resounded in Shirdi; Shri Sai Baba had heard his ardent call for assistance.
क्षुब्ध उठा हो मानस उनका, बाबा गए विकल हो
लगता जैसे घटना सारी, घटी उन्हीं के सम्मुख हो (43)
shubDh uTaa hoa maanas unkaa baabaa gaye vikal hoa
lagthaa jaisae ghatnaa saaree ghati unheen kae sanmukh hoa
Shri Sai Baba felt hurt in his heart and He was very much upset. It seemed that He could visualize the entire robbery and assault incident.
उन्मादी से इधर-उधर, तब बाबा लगे भटकने
सम्मुख चीजें जो भी आईं, उनको लगे पटकने (44)
unmaadhi sae iDhar uDhar thab baabaa lagae bhataknae
sanmukh cheezaein joa bhee aiee unkoa lagae pataknae
The trouble faced by His devotee had upset Shri Sai Baba so much that He was anxiously striding in various directions with disturbed mind. His soul was so troubled and in His anxiety, He started tossing the things and objects which came in the way in His panic pacing.
और धधकते अंगारों में, बाबा ने अपना कर डाला
हुए सशंकित सभी वहां, लख ताण्डव नृत्य निराला (45)
aur DhaDhakthae angaaron main baabaa nae apnaa kar daalaa
huyae sashankith sabhee vahaan lakh thandav nruthya niraalaa
To the shock of everyone present there, Shri Sai Baba had stepped on the red-hot scorching coal and the blazes. In His anger, he started dancing which was similar to the Rudra Tandavam of Sri Shiva.
समझ गए सब लोग कि कोई, भक्त पड़ा संकट में
क्षुभित खड़े थे सभी वहां पर पड़े हुए विस्मय में (46)
samajh gaye sab loag ki koai bhakth padaa sankat mein
kShubith khadae Thae sabhee vahaan par padae huae vismaya mein
The entire gathering of the persons there had fathomed that an ardent devotee of Shri Sai Baba was in some difficulty and danger. The people seeing Shri Sai Baba had stood rooted there in complete silence overwhelmed by His grace.
उसे बचाने के ही खातिर, बाबा आज विकल हैं
उसकी ही पीड़ा से पीड़ित, उनका अन्त:स्थल है (47)
usse bachaanae kae hee khathir baabaa aaj vikal hain
uskee hee peedaa sae peedith unkaa anthah stThal hai
Shri Sai Baba was so much disturbed that day sensing the need to protect the devotee who was in trouble and danger. Shri Sai Baba’s heart was so benevolent that He was anguished by the pain suffered by His devotee.
इतने में ही विधि ने अपनी, विचित्रता दिखलाई
लख कर जिसको जनता की, श्रद्धा-सरिता लहराई (48)
ithnae mein hee viDhi nae apnee vichithrathaa dhikhlaayi
lakh kar jiskoa janthaa kee shraDhaa-sarithaa lahraayi
At that time, the providence had proved its wonderful nature. Seeing the anguish of Shri Sai Baba on the suffering of His devotee, the people near Him were flooded with the feeling of ardent devotion.
लेकर कर संज्ञाहीन भक्त को गाड़ी एक वहां आई
सम्मुख अपने देख भक्त को साईं की आंखें भर आईं (49)
laekar kar sanjhyaaheen bhakth koa gaadee aek vahaan aayi
sanmukh apnae dhaekh bhakth koa sai ki aankhe bhar aayi
A vehicle carrying the unconscious Kashi was brought to Shri Sai Baba. On seeing the condition of His devotee, Shri Sai Baba’s eyes were tear filled.
शान्त धीर गम्भीर सिन्धु-सा बाबा का अन्त:स्थल
आज न जाने क्यों रह-रह कर हो जाता था चंचल (50)
shaanth Dheer gambheer sinDhu-saa baabaa kaa anthsThal
aaj na jaanae kyon rah-rah kar hoa jaathaa Thaa chanchal
Shri Sai Baba’s soul was always calm, strong and was like ocean. However, that day it was turbulent with anxiety and sorrow over the condition of His devotee.
आज दया की मूर्ति स्वयं था, बना हुआ उपचारी
और भक्त के लिए आज था, देव बना प्रतिहारी (51)
aaj dhaya kee moorthi svayaM Thaa banaa hua upachaaree
aur bhakth kae liyae aaj Thaa dhaev banaa prathi-haaree
Today, Shri Sai Baba, the divine form Himself had become a doctor for His sincere devotee. The kind God had become the reliever of pain.
आज भक्ति की विषम परीक्षा में, सफल हुआ था “काशी”
उसके ही दर्शन के खातिर, थे उमड़े नगर-निवासी (52)
aaj bhakthi kee viSham parikShaa main safal hua Thaa kaashi,
uske hee dharshan kae khathir, Thae umde nagar-nivaasee
Kashi, the ardent devotee of Shri Saai Baba had succeeded in the difficult test on his devotion. The people of the town had arrived together to get his darshan.
जब भी और जहां भी कोई, भक्त पड़े संकट में
उसकी रक्षा करने बाबा, आते हैं पलभर में (53)
jab bhee aur jahaan bhee koie, bhaktha pade sankat main,
uskee rakSha karnae baabaa, aathae hai palbhar main
Shri Sai Baba appears instantly to protect His ardent devotees as and when the said devotees get into any difficulty and trouble.
युग-युग का है सत्य यह, नहीं कोई नई कहानी
आपात ग्रस्त भक्त जब होता, आते खुद अन्तर्यामी (54)
yuga-yuga kaa hai sathya yah, nahee koie nayee kahaanee
aapaatha grastha bhakth jab hotha, aathae khudh antharyaami.
Shri Sai Baba always rescues His sincere devotees whenever they face problems. This is not new. This is happening for ages.
भेद-भाव से परे पुजारी, मानवता के थे साईं
जितने प्यारे हिन्दु-मुस्लिम, उतने ही थे सिक्ख ईसाई (55)
Bhedh-bhaav sae parae pujaaree maanavthaa kae Thae Sai,
jithnae pyaare hindhu-muslim, uthnae hee sikkh iesaie.
Shri Sai Baba does not discriminate. He is for the humanity as a whole. He has showered compassion on Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs and others equally,
भेद-भाव मन्दिर-मस्जिद का, तोड़-फोड़ बाबा ने डाला
राम-रहीम सभी उनके थे, कृष्ण-करीम-अल्लाहताला (56)
bhedh bhaav mandhir masjidh kaa, thoad phod baabaa ne daalaa,
raam rahim sabhi unke Thae, kriShNa kareem allah thaalaa
Shri Sai Baba had dimished the discrimination amongst religions whether it is a temple or a masjid. Both Ram and Rahim, Krishna, Karim and Allah belong to Shri Sai Baba.
घण्टे की प्रतिध्वनि से गूंजा, मस्जिद का कोना-कोना
मिले परस्पर हिन्दू-मुस्लिम, प्यार बढ़ा दिन-दिन दूना (57)
ghaNtae kee prathiDhvani sae goonjaa, masjidh kaa koana-koana,
milae paraspar hindhoo-muslim, pyaar badaa dhin-dhin dhoonaa.
The reverberated sound of the bell echoed in the corners of the mosque. Both the Hindus and the Muslims gather there and meet each other. Their mutual cordiality gets multifold by the day.
चमत्कार था कितना सुंदर, परिचय इस काया ने दी
और नीम कडुवाहट में भी, मिठास बाबा ने भर दी (58)
chamathkaar Thaa kithnaa sundhar, parichay iss kaayaa nae dhee,
aur neem kaduvaahat main bhee, miTaas baabaa nae bhar dhee.
This unity among people is so magically beautiful to consider. This amicability is introduced to this world by Shri Sai Baba as the God. With the blessings of Shri Sai Baba, even the bitter neem leaves get filled with sweetness.
सबको स्नेह दिया साईं ने, सबको सन्तुल प्यार किया
जो कुछ जिसने भी चाहा, बाबा ने उनको वही दिया (59)
sabko sneha dhiyaa sai nae, sabko santhul pysar kiysa,
joa kuCh jisnae bhi chaahaa, baabaa nae usko vahee dhiyaa.
Shri Sai Baba showers His love and blessings to all equally. Whatever His devotees asprire for, Shri Sai Baba surely grants the same.
ऐसे स्नेह शील भाजन का, नाम सदा जो जपा करे
पर्वत जैसा दु:ख न क्यों हो, पलभर में वह दूर टरे (60)
aise sneha sheel bhaajan kaa, naam saadha joa japaa karae,
parvath jaisaa dukh na kyun hoa, palbhar main vah dhoor tare.
Shri Sai Baba is the saint full of love and compassion. To the person who recites His name constantly, even the worries and sadness in the size of the mountain shall wither away with the His blessings.
साईं जैसा दाता हमने, अरे नहीं देखा कोई
जिसके केवल दर्शन से ही, सारी विपदा दूर हो गई (61)
Saai jaisa dhaathaa humnae, aare naheen dhekhaa koi
jiskae kaeval dharshan sae hee, saaree vipdha dhoor gayi.
Shri Sai Baba is so compassionate towards His devotees. Even the simple darshan of Him dissolves all the worries and pains.
तन में साईं, मन में साईं, साईं-साईं भजा करो
अपने तन की सुधि-बुधि खोकर, सुधि उसकी तुम किया करो (62)
than main Saai, man main Saai, Saai Saai bhajhaa karo
apnae than kee suDhi-buDhi khoakar, suDhi uskee thum kiyaa karo.
Shri Sai Baba is filled in our mind, body and soul. Do keep chanting “Sai, Sai”. You leave being aware of your body. You concentrate and meditate solely on Shri Sai Baba.
जब तू अपनी सुधि तज, बाबा की सुधि किया करेगा
और रात-दिन बाबा, बाबा ही तू रटा करेगा (63)
jab thoo apnee suDhi thaj, baabaa kee suDhi kiyaa karaegaa
aur raath-dhin baabaa-baabaa, hee thoo rataa karaegaa
Once you cease to thick of yourself and commence meditating on Shri Sai Baba, during day and night, you will be only reciting “Baba, Baba” all the time.
तो बाबा को अरे! विवश हो, सुधि तेरी लेनी ही होगी
तेरी हर इच्छा बाबा को, पूरी ही करनी होगी (64)
thoa baabaa koa arae vivash hoa, suDhi thaeree laenee hee haogee,
thaeree har ichChaa baabaa koa, pooree hee karnee haogee.
With your unending chanting of Shri Sai Baba, He will surely pay attention to you and He will consider all your wishes and will fulfill your every wish.
जंगल-जंगल भटक न पागल, और ढूंढ़ने बाबा को
एक जगह केवल शिर्डी में, तू पायेगा बाबा को (65)
jungal-jungal bhatak na paagal, aur DoonDnae baabaa koa
ek jagah kaeval shirdi main, thoo paayaegaa baabaa koa
Oh ignorant mind! You abstain from wandering from place to place in seatch of Shri Sai Baba. You will find Him only in Shirdi.
धन्य जगत में प्राणी है वह, जिसने बाबा को पाया
दु:ख में सुख में प्रहर आठ हो, साईं का ही गुण गाया (66)
Dhanya jagath main praaNi hai vah, jisnae baabaa koa paayaa
dhukh main sukh main prahar aaT hoa, Saai ka hee guN gaayaa
The devotee of Shri Sai Baba who has obtained refuge in Him is blessed. In happiness, in sadness and in the eight phases of each day, he only praises the name of Shri Sai Baba.
गिरें संकटों के पर्वत, चाहे बिजली ही टूट पड़े
साईं का ले नाम सदा तुम, सम्मुख सब के रहो अड़े (67)
girae sankaton kae parvath, chaahe bijlee hee toot padae
Saai kaa lae naam sadha thum, sammukh sab kae rahoa adae
The devotee remembering the name of Shri Sai Baba can face all the troubles bravely even if there is striking of lightning. All his mountain of troubles will fade away with the blessings of Shri Sai Baba.
Sadhu
इस बूढ़े की करामात सुन, तुम हो जाओगे हैरान
दंग रह गये सुनकर जिसको, जाने कितने चतुर सुजान (68)
ies boodhe kee karaamath sun, thum hoa jao gae hairaan
dhang raha gayae sunkar jiskoa, jaane kithnae chathur sujaan.
The persons who listen to this story of the old man will be dumbstruck with shock. Many intelligent people were shocked at the story.
एक बार शिर्डी में साधू, ढ़ोंगी था कोई आया
भोली-भाली नगर-निवासी, जनता को था भरमाया (69)
ek baar shirdi main saaDhu, Doangee Thaa koi aayaa
bhoalee bhaalee nagar nivaasee, jantha koa Tha bharmaayaa.
Long back, Shirdi was visited by a person who appeared as a Sadhu and he was a cheat. Innocent residents of the town were misguided by him.
जड़ी-बूटियां उन्हें दिखाकर, करने लगा वहां भाषण
कहने लगा सुनो श्रोतागण, घर मेरा है वृन्दावन (70)
jade- bootiyaan unhe dhikhakar, karne lagaa vahaan bhaShaN
kehne lagaa sunoa shrothaagaN, ghar maera hai vrundhavan
The Sadhu had showed various types of herbs to the residents and told them “listen to me; My home is in Vrindhavan”.
औषधि मेरे पास एक है, और अजब इसमें शक्ति
इसके सेवन करने से ही, हो जाती दु:ख से मुक्ति (71)
auShaDhi maerae paas ek hai aur ajab iss-main shakthi
iskae saevan karne sae hee hoa jaathi dukh sae mukthi
I have an unique healing medicine with me; It has wonderful powers; The dosage and usage of this medicine alleviates all pains and worries.
अगर मुक्त होना चाहो तुम, संकट से बीमारी से
तो है मेरा नम्र निवेदन, हर नर से हर नारी से (72)
agar muktha hoanaa chaahoa thum sankat sae beemaaree sae
thoa hai maeraa numra nivedhan har nar sae har naaree sae
Oh the men and women here, if you wish to be free of worries and ailments, this is my most humble request to you.
लो खरीद तुम इसको इसकी, सेवन विधियां हैं न्यारी
यद्यपि तुच्छ वस्तु है यह, गुण उसके हैं अति भारी (73)
loa khareedh thum iskoa iskee saevan viDhiyaan hai nyaaree
yadhyapi thuchCh vasthu hai yah guN uskae hai athi bhaaree
You people come forward and get this medicince; Though it looks trivial, there are unique benefits in its usage and the results are enormous.
जो है संतति हीन यहां यदि, मेरी औषधि को खायें
पुत्र-रत्न हो प्राप्त, अरे वह मुंह मांगा फल पायें (74)
joa hai santhaan heen yahaan yaadhi maeree auShDhi koa khaayen
puthra rathna hoa praapth arae vah moonh maangaa phal paayen
In case there is a person without progeny here, that person can have this medicine. That person shall be bestowed with progeny and the other wishes shall also be fulfilled.
औषधि मेरी जो न खरीदे, जीवन भर पछतायेगा
मुझ जैसा प्राणी शायद ही, अरे यहां आ पायेगा (75)
auShaDhi maeree joa na khareedae jeevan bhar paChthaayaegaa
mujh jaisaa praaNee shayadh hee arae yahaan aa paayaegaa
The persons who do not get the medicine from me will regret their folly for the rest of their lives. It is unlikely that a person like me visits this place again.
दुनियां दो दिन का मेला है, मौज शौक तुम भी कर लो
गर इससे मिलता है, सब कुछ तुम भी इसको ले लो (76)
dhuniyaan dhoa dhin kaa maelaa hai mauj shauk thum bhi kar loa
gar is-sae milthaa hai sub kuCh tum bhee iskoa lae loa.
The world is like the show of exhibition lasting for two days. You must enjoy and fulfill your desires to the possible extent. If you buy the miracle medicine from me, your wishes will be fulfilled.
हैरानी बढ़ती जनता की लख इसकी कारस्तानी
प्रमुदित वह भी मन ही मन था, लख लोगो की नादानी (77)
hairaani badhthee jantha kee lakh iski kaarasthaanee
pramudhith veh bhee man hee man Thaa lakh loagoa kee naadhaanee
The people who had listened to his claims were awestruck with his speech and actions. The Sadhu was also gratified to see the large crowd of simple, ignorant and innocent people.
खबर सुनाने बाबा को यह, गया दौड़कर सेवक एक
सुनकर भृकुटि तनी और, विस्मरण हो गया सभी विवेक (78)
khabar sunaa nae baabaa koa yah, gayaa dhaudkar saevak aek
sun-kar bhrukuti thanee aur vismaraN hoa gayaa sabhee vivaek
One of the devotees of Shri Sai Baba ran to him to tell about the news of the Sadhu. Shri Sai Baba was surprised and perturbed. His sense of calm was shattered.
हुक्म दिया सेवक को, सत्वर पकड़ दुष्ट को लाओ
या शिर्डी की सीमा से, कपटी को दूर भगाओ (79)
hukum dhiyaa saevak koa sathvar pakad duSht koa laoa
yaa shirdee kee seemaa sae kapatee koa dhoor bhagaaoa
Shri Sai Baba had ordered His followers to either bring the cheating Sadhu to Him or to forcefully drive the Sadhu away from the borders of Shirdi.
मेरे रहते भोली-भाली, शिर्डी की जनता को
कौन नीच ऐसा जो, साहस करता है छलने को (80)
maerae rehthae bholee bhaalee shirdee kee janthaa ko
kaun neech aisa joa saahas kartha hai Chalnae ko
Shri Saai Baba said, “as long as I am here, I will not allow the innocent people of Shirdi being cheated by this lowly person.
पल भर में ही ऐसे ढ़ोंगी, कपटी नीच लुटेरे को
महानाश के महागर्त में, पहुंचा दूं जीवन भर को (81)
phal bhar main hee aise Doangee kaptee neech lootaerae ko
mahaa-naash kae mahaagarth main pahunchaa Doon jeevan bhar ko
I will subject this lowly being who is a cheat, hypocrite and theif to the worst form of diminution. He will suffer for the rest of his life.
तनिक मिला आभास मदारी क्रूर कुटिल अन्यायी को
काल नाचता है अब सिर पर गुस्सा आया साईं को (82)
thanik milaa aabhaas madhaaree kroor kutil anyaayee ko
kaal naachthaa hai ab sir par gussa aayaa Saai koa
Shri Sai Baba was enraged with his actions. He said , “ I wish to see this cruel and crooked magician. His time is hovering above his head”.
पल भर में सब खेल बन्द कर भागा सिर पर रखकर पैर
सोच था मन ही मन, भगवान नहीं है अब खैर (83)
pal bhar main sab khael bandh kar bhaagaa sir par rakh kar pair
soacha Thaa man hee man bhagavaan nahin hai ab khair
At the same time, the cheat Sadhu had a feeling that he could escape from the punishment of the God. So he stopped his cheating work and ran to flee from the town.
Shri Sai Baba
सच है साईं जैसा दानी, मिल न सकेगा जग में
अंश ईश का साईंबाबा, उन्हें न कुछ भी मुश्किल जग में (84)
such hai Saai jaisa daanee mil na sakegaa jag main
ansh iish kaa Saai baabaa unhae na kuCh bhee mushkil jag main
The benefactor like Shri Sai Baba cannot be found anywhere in the universe. When Shri Sai Baba blesses and be with the devotee, nothing in the world if tough for the devotee.
स्नेह, शील, सौजन्य आदि का, आभूषण धारण कर
बढ़ता इस दुनिया में जो भी, मानव-सेवा के पथ पर (85)
sneh, sheel, sojanya, aadhi kaa aabhooShaN DhaaraN kar
bad-thaa iss dhuniyaa main joa bhee maanav saeva kae paTh par
When a person wishes to progress in the world in the path of service to humanity, he adorns, friendliness, humility, affection and kindness as ornaments.
वही जीत लेता है जगती के, जन-जन का अन्त:स्थल
उसकी एक उदासी ही जग को कर देती है विह्वल (86)
vahee jeeth laethaa hai jagathee kae jan jan kaa anthsThal
uski ek udhaasee hee jag koa kar dhaethee hai vivhal
Shri Sai Baba is the one who is prevailaing over the universe. He exists in the souls of all the beings. If He Himself is saddened even a little, it will cripple the world.
जब-जब जग में भार पाप का, बढ़ बढ़ ही जाता है
उसे मिटाने के ही खातिर, अवतारी ही आता है (87)
jab jab jag main bhaar paap kaa baD baD hee jaathaa hai
ussae mitaanae kae hee khathir avthaaree hee aathaa hai
As and when the sins the world get too heavy beyond endurance, Lord Sri Maha Vishnu takes an incarnation to diminish those sins.
पाप और अन्याय सभी कुछ, इस जगती का हर के
दूर भगा देता दुनिया के, दानव को क्षण भर में (88)
paap aur anyaaya sabhi kuCh iss jagathee kaa har kae
dhoor bhagaa dhaethaa dhuniyaa kae, dhaanav koa kShaN bhar main
The said incarnation of Sri Maha Vishu destroys and dissolves all the sins and injustice in the world. All the demons flee away in His presence.
स्नेह सुधा की धार बरसने, लगती है इस दुनिया में
गले परस्पर मिलने लगते, हैं जन-जन आपस में (89)
snaeh suDhaa kee Dhar barasnae lagthee hai iss dhuniyaa main
galae paraspar milnae lagthae hain jan jan aapas main
The showers of nectar from the God and love commence descending on this world. The devotees started embracing themselves with affection among themselves.
ऐसे ही अवतारी साईं, मृत्युलोक में आकर
समता का यह पाठ पढ़ाया, सबको अपना आप मिटाकर (90)
aise hee avthaaree Saai mruthyu-loak main aakar
samthaa kaa yah paaT paDaayaa sabkoa apnaa aap mitaakar
Shri Sai Baba is such incarnation who was born in this world. He had taught the lesson of peaceful co-existence and sense of equality by not giving consideration to selfish interests.
नाम द्वारका मस्जिद का, रक्खा शिर्डी में साईं ने
दाप, ताप, सन्ताप मिटाया, जो कुछ आया साईं ने (91)
naam dhwarkaa masjidh kaa rakkha shirdi main Saai nae
dhaap thaap sunthaap mitaayaa jo kuCh aayaa Saai nae
At Shirdi, Shri Sai Baba had called a mosque as Dwaraka making it similar to the birthplace of Sri Krishna. He had removed anger, illness, worries, troubles and other problems.
सदा याद में मस्त राम की, बैठे रहते थे साईं
पहर आठ ही राम नाम का, भजते रहते थे साईं (92)
sadhaa yaadh main masth raam kee baiTae rahthae Thae Saai
paher aaT hee raam naam kaa bhajthae rahthae Thae Saai
Shri Sai Baba constantly is in meditation with the lovely thoughts and chants of Lord Sri Ram in all the eight phases of the day.
सूखी-रूखी, ताजी-बासी, चाहे या होवे पकवान
सदा प्यार के भूखे साईं की, खातिर थे सभी समान (93)
sookhi rookhi thaajee baasee chaahae yaa hoavae pakvaan
sadhaa pyaar kae bhookhae Saai kee khathir Thae sabhee samaan
Shri Sai Baba had hunger only for love and compassion; Otherwise all food whether it is fresh or old or dried or wrinkled are equally good to Him.
स्नेह और श्रद्धा से अपनी, जन जो कुछ दे जाते थे
बड़े चाव से उस भोजन को, बाबा पावन करते थे (94)
snaeh aur shradhDhaa sae apnee jan joa kuCh dhae jaathae Thae
badae chaav sae uss bhojan koa baabaa paavan karthae Thae
Shri Sai Baba always accepts any food offered by His devotees and eats the same with enthusiasm and makes it a blessed prasad.
कभी-कभी मन बहलाने को, बाबा बाग में जाते थे
प्रमुदित मन निरख प्रकृति, छटा को वे होते थे (95)
kabhee kabhee man bahlaanae koa baabaa baag main jaathae Thae
pramudhith man main nirakh prakruthi Chataa koa vae hoathae Thae
Shri Sai Baba at times visits the garden and observes the nature. It calms His mind and it makes Him happy.
रंग-बिरंगे पुष्प बाग के, मन्द-मन्द हिल-डुल करके
बीहड़ वीराने मन में भी, स्नेह सलिल भर जाते थे (96)
rang-birangae puShpa baag kae mandh-mandh hul dul karkae
beehad veeraanae man mein bhee snaeh salil bhar jaathae Thae
The flowers in the garden which are full of colors used to sway as if in a trance. The sight of those shall bring love and compassion even to the silent and peaceful mind.
ऐसी सुमधुर बेला में भी, दु:ख आपात विपदा के मारे
अपने मन की व्यथा सुनाने, जन रहते बाबा को घेरे (97)
aisee sumDhur baelaa main bhee dukh aapaath vipadhaa kai maarae
apnae man kee vyaThaa sunaanae jan rahthae baabaa koa ghaerae
Shri Sai Baba is surrounded by people who are tortured, afflicted with worries, sadness and troubles who pour in their woes to Him.
सुनकर जिनकी करूण कथा को, नयन कमल भर आते थे
दे विभूति हर व्यथा,शान्ति, उनके उर में भर देते थे (98)
sunkar jinkee karuN kaTaha koa nayan kamal bhar aathae Thae
dhae vibhoothi har vyaThaa shaanthi, unkae uur main bhar dhaethae Thae
Shri Sai Baba used to fill His eyes with tears whenever He heard the sadness from His devotees. He gave them the sacred ash thereby alleviating their pains and fill them with peace of mind.
जाने क्या अद्भुत,शक्ति, उस विभूति में होती थी
जो धारण करते मस्तक पर, दु:ख सारा हर लेती थी (99)
jaanae kyaa adhbhuth shakthi uss vibhoothi main hoathi Thee
joa DhaaraN karthae masthak par, dukh saaraa har laethee Thee
It is really wonderful that once the holy ash is applied on one’s forehead, all the worries and sadness wither away.
धन्य मनुज वे साक्षात् दर्शन, जो बाबा साईं के पाये
धन्य कमल-कर उनके जिनसे, चरण-कमल वे परसाये (100)
Dhanya manuja veh saakShaath dharshan, joa baabaa Saai kae paayae
Dhanya kamal-kar unke jinsae charaN-kamal veh parsaai
The people who get the darshan of Shri Sai Baba are blessed. Of them, those who had the chance to touch the holy feet of Shri Sai Baba are very much blessed.
काश निर्भय तुमको भी, साक्षात साईं मिल जाता
बरसों से उजड़ा चमन अपना, फिर से आज खिल जाता (101)
kaash nirbhay thumkoa bhee saakShaath Saai mil jaathaa
barsoan sae ujdaa chaman apnaa phir sae aaj khil-jaathaa
Getting the blessings of Shri Sai Baba makes you fearless. His blessings turn your life from a dried up land to a blooming colorful garden.
गर पकड़ता मैं चरण श्री के, नहीं छोड़ता उम्रभर
मना लेता मैं जरूर उनको, गर रूठते साईं मुझ पर (102)
gar pakdthaa main charaN shree kae nahin Chodthaa umrabhar
manaa laethaa main jaroor unkoa gar rooTthae Saai mujh par
I shall hold the holy feet of Shri Sai Baba and I will never leave them for my life. Even if I have done something to anger Him, by steadfastly holding His feet, I will be able to make Him forgive me.
Possible Benefits
It is sincerely believed that Shri Sai Baba has answers to the troubles and worries of His devotees.
Even in current times, if one meditates on Him chanting Shri Sai Chalisa, the person gets clarity and peace of mind on the issues which bug his life. The said devotee gets to see the solution to his problems.
It is devoutly belived that the chanting of Shri Sai Chalisa alleviates the physical and psychological ailments.
It is firmly believed that the sincere chanting of Shri Sai Chalisa bestows and blesses peace of mind and tranquil life to the devotee.
