How did Maharaj react to the villagers who had insulted and harassed him after they realized his power?

After the miracle of lighting the lamps with water, the villagers who had previously insulted and even harassed Maharaj became very scared and apologized to him. However, Chapter 0 emphasizes that Maharaj's response was one of complete mercy. His guiding principle was not only to be good to those who did good, but "to do good even to them" who had wronged him. Because of his merciful nature and fatherly care for all people, the villagers had no reason to fear him, despite their past actions.