Chapter 31 recounts the story of a sannyasi from Madras named Vijayananda. He was on a determined pilgrimage to Mansarovar and possibly Japan, but hearing of Sai Baba's fame, he decided to stop in Shirdi. Upon his arrival, he met Swami Somdevji of Haridwar, who described the significant hardships of the journey to Mansarovar, including harsh weather and language barriers. This news left Vijayananda feeling dejected and worried. He then had darshan of Sai Baba and prostrated at His feet, which pleased him. However, Baba's disposition suddenly changed, and He told the assembly to send the sannyasi away, an act that distressed the newcomer who was unfamiliar with Baba's nature.
Can you describe the journey and initial experiences of the sannyasi from Madras as detailed in Chapter 31?
📖 Chapter 31