Homage to a Saint

M K Mattoo

Saints like Sh. Vivekananda popularly known as Baba Ji formed a regular institution from the ancient times and they moulded the people and guided them along spiritual paths which brought them solace and peace of mind. But a large number of people went to them to seek fulfillment of mundane desires or to have calamities warded off. Nowadays, saints of the above class are not found but their memory lives from generation to generation and their message and sayings still keeps the torch of spirituality burning.
All these were Godmen as they played a notable part in raising the moral standard of people and in blazing the trial for God – realization in a peculiar manner suited to the times they lived in. “Their teaching, preaching and practices are in line with the basic principles of our holy scriptures. Their message is universal, free from dogmatism and sectarianism” .
In the present age of stark materialism, the teachings and their deeds will not only serve as a remedy to these evils but also can bring about spiritual revival. Our youth, frustrated due to depression and westernization should attain inspiration from them as well as lose despondency. Under their influence, they would regain fresh hope for a right future and a life of contentment by learning and preaching their ideas, to develop a healthy attitude of life.
Babaji’s first abode for meditation was Shivalaya Temple at Srinagar Kashmir wherein he remained for many years till migration to Jammu. From here, he was persuaded by some noble and kind people to come to our temple namely “Shiv Temple at Upper Shiv Nagar” a few yards from the tail end of Subash Nagar Jammu, wherein, he remained till his last journey to Swarglok. He left no stone unturned to make this temple a complex of fame and religious place. Whatever, he got by charity, donation or from other resources besides collection of inhabitants, he used to spend all this for making this temple an abode of peace and tranquility.
It was from the Shiv temple complex, that he spread his spiritual message to hundreds of devotees and others through his sweet and tuneful voice. He had a sharp memory and a resolute disposition. For his  behavior and spiritual zeal and zest, he was deeply devoted to his own mission and was loved by his devotees and others. There is no record how and when Baba Ji surrendered himself at the feet of his Guru. He was the embodiment of all pervading bliss, initiated and taught many of his disciples among them is author himself.
He knew no fear and showed great courage in going against the traditions in dealing with matters of suffering and injustice. Many more devotees and admirers mostly householders were attracted towards him and would keep their problems of  world affairs before him. He would solve their problems in a laughing mood and mystic zeal. His mere look or touch was bound to make a person a changed one.
Babaji appeared as a wandering mystic Saint having no permanent residence or any Ashram. He was very strong to his word and did whatever he thought good. He was not born for family but for the common people. He was calm, composed, tolerant and well balanced. His heart was as clear as a mirror and his speech always rained nectar. Whosoever may have been his Guru, Babaji bestowed godly love and care and mitigated the sufferings of those who came to him. He was fond of construction and beautification of temple complex.  He devoted his life for raising the walls and constructed the new steps of temple complex. It was due to his persistent efforts that the temple was brought into limelight. He instead of asking for money for personal use, would ask for the temple construction and its renovation.
In this temple, wherein he gave up the mortal frame on the 8-11- 2015.  A spiritual person like him can never be proclaimed dead. Babaji may not be around in person but his spirit will live on forever in our hearts. Babaji lived his life with a vision. Filled it with humility and compassion. He would often urge the devotees to lift the veil of ego that envelops the atman.