BHAGAWAN BABA OF SHIRDI

BABA'S CATHOLICITY

Baba was a Jnani, trikalagna, siddha, yogi and samskartha - all rolled into one. He utilised each one of the facets of his multi-dimensional personality for the right cause at the right time. The miracles he made raised him to the highest pedestal. This simple Baba of Shridi became a marvel of the modern India, and a symbol of Hindu Muslim unity in a characteristic way that he has no parallels but himself. His favourite chant was 'Alla Malik' and it worked wonders, when uttered. Listen! He arranged for the conduct of Sandal Procession, an important Muslim festival on the Sri Rama Navami day. None grumbled. His world is filled with devout people of all religious and races. All belonged to him in as much as he belonged to them all, who held him in highest esteem calling as the saviour. He deliberately concealed his true identity, say, openly refused to disclose his origin, when forced by the judicial authority once. Hindu-Muslim unity was his sole concern. His followers - Hindus and Muslims became an impregnable single entity that they lived and moved in an atmosphere of perfect equality. They celebrated all festivals together without clash. He lived in a mosque, but allowed the burning of oil lamps, contrary to Islam tradition, round the clock throughout his life. Moreover, ringing of bells and blowing of conches were the routine practices there. All inside the Mosque. What an amity! Can toleration find any better advocate in anyone or anywhere? See! Bakrid on Diwali day, Ugadi on Ramzan. In this, he out stepped Kabir, whom he revered as Guru. Ram is Rahim and Rahim is Ram. Nothing more nor less. All listened to this and implemented its spirit thus. His message is simple and couched in the simplest diction. His clarion call to his devotees is nothing but absolute and abiding faith in him only.

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