Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj

Due to the tireless efforts of Sadguru Nirgun Swami, Satsang was flourishing significantly in Khāndesh. However, if Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj personally visited, it would add even greater strength and inspiration to the devotees there. Wishing for this, Nirgun Swami wrote letters requesting Shastriji Maharaj to visit and bless the devotees.

Despite his frail health, Shastriji Maharaj was determined to visit the devotees in Khāndesh. He traveled from Sārangpur to Amdāvād to reach there, stopping at Jālilā Road Station. His right leg had become stiff the night before, yet he still pushed himself to board the train. However, during the journey, his other leg also became stiff! Now, he could not take a single step.

His accompanying sevak swamis, Narayanswarupdasji and Chaturbhuj Swami, had to lift and carry him off the train. Deep in his heart, Shastriji Maharaj felt uneasy as he realized he might not be able to proceed further to Khāndesh and bless the devotees. From Jālilā Station, he wrote an emotionally moving letter to Nirgun Swami, describing his painful physical condition:

“…We, five of us, had prepared to come to Khāndesh via Amdāvād, planning to reach Atlādarā on Friday. However, I do not know what Maharaj and Swami’s wish is. Just last night, my right leg became severely stiff – the arthritis flared up badly. Still, I couldn’t bring myself to change our plans, and we continued my journey. But I could not walk at all when I got down from the damaniā (Ox cart). My left leg, too, is in great pain. I had to be lifted and brought to the Master’s house. Now they will have to lift me onto the train. We will reach Amdāvād and then Atlādarā, but if my legs do not improve and the pain worsens, I cannot proceed. However, if even a little relief comes and I can walk, then I will surely come. If, for some reason, I cannot come, then please try to understand and remain content. If Āshābhāi and others can come, I will send them in our place. But if my condition improves, the five of us will surely come…”

The words “I did not change my decision and continued my journey” speak volumes about his unwavering determination. The phrase “If even a little relief comes and I can walk, then I will surely come” reflects his deep yearning to be with every single devotee and please them. Even with stiff legs and unbearable pain, Shastriji Maharaj’s efforts to visit and uplift devotees remained uninterrupted. The Satpurush have sacrificed their bodies and comforts for our happiness. Because of this selfless love and sacrifice, devotees’ hearts naturally overflow with gratitude, singing: “Tame jivyā amāre kāj, ame jivshu tamāre kāj, vhālā Shastriji Maharaj” (“You lived for us, we will live for you, beloved Shastriji Maharaj!”)