ISSN 0970-8669 Odisha Review

Grace of the Almighty

Er. Raghunath Patra

Inevitably a man looks back and memories crowd Looking at portrait of Lord Jagannath, in. Some of my memories, I have expressed hanging against wall. I cried and blamed Him for before my Jagannath Temple associates in course such chalk out, dehousing me from Puri. I strongly of talk. Meanwhile few friends pressed hard to resolved not to purchase that land. get those published for spiritual inspiration of Days later, He accorded a patch of land others. So I ventilate few of the lot fervently in a in between Jagannath and Lokanath on which precise way. present residence, ‘Brundaban Dham’ stands. 1) How He accords a patch of land for 2) How I became a bilingual writer, residence : poet : Many years back, when I was Asst. Nearly forty years back,at the time of Engineer, my Sadu Bhai i.e. brother- in-law wrote ‘darshan’, I requsted Lord Jagannath “Suna ! You a letter for purchase of a patch of land close to are my beloved son, prime of love and affection. his residence, adjacent to the compound wall of Please make my life praiseworthy, immortal. the High School, Tangi. I replied, originally I belong to Puri proper, close to Jagannath Temple. Why Months later, ‘Bala-dhupa’ ritual was should I purchase a land at Tangi ? Then he wrote going on in Srimandir in the month of Karttik. “High School, Police station, Primary Health Temple was crowded by devotees. Centre and Bus stand are very near and Kalupada Sitting on the verandah of ‘Dakshina station is not very far. The price of the land is Gruha’ I was talking of gods and goddesses. And very cheap. Days later, I received such like letter the people nearby were sincerely hearing. from my wife staying then in father-in-law’s house. Then I wrote a letter even if Tangi is a good place Meanwhile an unknown priest (servitor no doubt, I intend to breath my last at Puri only. of Lord Jagannath) came out of Dakshin Gruha To me, Baikuntha or Golaka is no other but Puri. and told ‘Patra Baboo ! Let us go to Jagamohan. I shall stay with Lord Jagannath. I can’t part with I told, “All are prohibited by Police. How can Him. I enter in ?’ He advised to go with him. The

80 JUNE-JULY - 2019 Odisha Review ISSN 0970-8669 moment I entered inside and looked at Jagannath, Years later, when I shared this experience He came rushing forth and embraced me with His with Dr. H.K. Mahtab, he told “This is due to shoulders, tight. I shivered, thrilled. Abruptly I told your divine relationship with Him. Due to divine ‘Dhana’ what has happened to you. “Why did grace, you possess unique and exceptional genius you embrace today !” I kissed all in Ratna in literature and philosophy although you are Simhasan on my palm as usual till I came out. technocrat, a Civil Engineer by profession.” Next day, on ‘Dakshin-gruha’ verandah, same 4) How could I see ‘Pralaya’ in my priest called me inside and I got divine perception, dream : of Lord Jagannath as before. Both the days, the priest went inside ‘Garva Gruha’ leaving me in Years back, I was going through Jagamohan. I have not seen him thereafter. Later Markandeya Purana in our old house. I asked I thought “He is no other but Jagannath.” Jagannath affectionately, “Hati ! Markandeya My pen became perrenial since then in Rushi was so dear and near to you, You could two languages Odia and English, prose and poetry. show ‘Pralaya’, the great catestrophe to him Hundreds of articles have been published in where as I being father of yours deprived of.” leading dailies and magazines. Meanwhile two years elapsed. I was 3) How could I see divine flame in naked sleeping with family members at night in our eyes ! present residence. One night, in dream, I could behold “Pralaya, catastrophe or great disaster. I was going regularly to the ‘Garva All were inundated in black waters. No trace of Gruha’ of Jagannath Temple in every morning. land, tree and leaving soul. I was alone in the No restriction was there as it prevails now. Once water, struggling for life. To my good luck, I could after circumambulation of Ratna Simhasan. I stood see Jagannath floating alone. Immediately I rushed leaning to the wall in front of Jagannath. forth and embraced. He too embraced me. Repeatedly requested Him to exhibit something Although I was panting heavily out of fear, got new, miraculous so that I can remember ever. solace When I recovered from dream my heart Minutes later, I noticed the size of the deity was throbbing. expanded to double with circular eyes.The entire 5) Miracles in front of Gundicha body became blue. A blue coloured flame from the bottom of scarlet lip moved upwards crossing Mandir : diamond studded gold bud like ornament, (a) Car festival time. All three cars were ‘Mathamani’ on the forehead, I exclaimed out of standing in front of Gundicha Mandir. That was astonishment. the day of ‘Gundicha.Vijay’ i.e. all gods and One Mekap Sevak, standing infront of goddesses will enter inside temple. Cordon rope goddess Subhadra came rushing forth and encircled three cars by police. None was allowed smeared camphor on both the eyes at once. I to go front, With much difficulty. I could see one could not see divine flame. Later I thought of, eye of Lord Jagannath only. I flared up and told Subhadra, ‘Yogamaya’ did not allow me to see “Perhaps other two do not want me. I was on further. my way back in pensive mood.

JUNE-JULY - 2019 81 ISSN 0970-8669 Odisha Review

Just behind Subhadra Car, I noticed and told. The boy told “Have you paid prostration police lowered down cordon rope and advised to gods ?”. I told ‘Banak lagi is going on’. He one young lady carrying flower basket. “Maa ~ told “You come with me, you will see Them. He Madam pass on” Meanwhile I had gone near. guided me to the hole of the door, which was Police thought me her father perhaps and advised open then.Through hole, I could see Banak lagi. to cross cordon at once to go inside. I could Thereafter he made me stand with a request ascertain ‘she is no other but Subhadra’. I crossed “Please wait. I am coming from Garuda cordon rope and went to front space. Paid Stambha’. I remained standing for 5 minutes. Boy prostration to all without any prohibition. But that did not return. Meanwhile Lingaraj baboo, a young lady was not available. Vanished, I admired train mate of mine reached there and asked “Why Subhadra for Her divine miracle. are you standing here. Sir,” I told all - “How did b) Years back, all the three cars standing in I avail darshan through that hole.” Then he told front of Gundicha Mandir. Atmosphere thronged “that remains closed. How could you see ?” Then with sound of gongs and tabor. Articulation sound I told because of that boy only, I could avail. Hole of ladies (Hulahuli) and Haribol of devotees was was not covered then. Then he exclaimed “that filling atmosphere at frequent intervals. Flash of boy is no other but Jagannath, Himself. I fireworks, was making the function majestic. wondered and thanked. ‘Pahandi Vijay’ of Lord Balabhadra was going Miracle in front of Singhadwar (Lions gate) : on. (a) Return Car festival was over. All three Meanwhile it started drizzling. I told cars were standing in front of Singhadwar. There Balabhadra ‘Baba ! it may rain, I can’t attend was great rush of devotees on the cars for Pahandi - Vijaya of Jagannath. Suddenly touching, embracing gods and goddess. Only top Balabhadra turned black taking shape and size portion of Balabhadra and Jagannath was visible of Jagannath with rotund eyes. I saw Pahandi and Subhadra sank behind multitude. I and Vijay of Jagannath and Balabhadra. Mahapatra Baboo, Ganjam went to the platform Thanked Balabhadra from core of heart of Raghunandan Library in front and paid and murmured “you both are one and the same.” prostration to Balabhadra and Jagannath. While Then I came to Jagannath temple to pay descending from platform in front of Subhadra prostration. Heavy rain came after my reach in Car, I told abruptly in Odia. “Maa Aji Gela residence. Habuniki !” Maa ! would you not be fondled 6) Miracle inside Gundicha Temple : today !” A lady standing in front, turned her face and repeated my words smiling. Banak lagi was going on in Gundicha Mandir. So I could not have a glance of gods and Suddenly Subhadra with innumerable goddess.Simply circumambulated temple, I was hands on both the sides removed the people away, coming back with pensive mood, dissatisfied. I could see Her in fullest form from bottom to Meanwhile one unknown black boy called from top. Embraced and kissed out of affection on my behind “Patra babu ! please tell all, what palms. Mahapatra Babu was astonished. When I happened in Mehesana during marriage ceremony asked him “Could you see innumerable hands of of your elder son. I sat down in the court yard Subhadra, both the sides ?” He denied.

82 JUNE-JULY - 2019 Odisha Review ISSN 0970-8669

(b) Miracle of both the brothers in dehydration, I took sufficient water and eagerly disguise : waiting for morning but could not. Ultimately at Once, standing near Aruna Stambha of about 3.30 AM, took more than one thousand rupees with me and started for general hospital. Singhadwar, I was talking to a young man. After Locked residence and gate with a fervent prayer my talk when I wanted to move. I felt one thorn to Lord Jagannath for availability of Rickshaw at has gone inside my foot. I tried a lot with my Gandua Chaura Chhak. But no Rickshaw was hand but failed to remove. Looking at Patitapaban there. I walked hurriedly to Singhadwar. In front I flared up and told “How could a thorn go inside of Singhadwar, just below library platform, I in presence of yours !”. I went to adjacent found one Rickshaw puller, looking like college Chhauni Matha Verandah (old structure) then. To going boy of twenty, sitting on Rickshaw driver my utter surprise two young men were sitting seat, instead of that of passenger. Because I was there, one with a torch and other with a blade. in a hurry, without asking anything, sat down on They removed immediately, I admired Jaga, Balia Rickshaw. Rickshaw Puller also without asking both. about destination started, paddling in proper How Jagannath sent betel for me : direction. Just inside entrance of General hospital Once at about 9 P.M., I was engrossed he adjourned. I hurried inside to consult with in telling magnanimity of Lord Jagannath by the Doctor. Dr. Khetrabasi Mahapatra was on duty side of Majana Mandap of Srimandir in presence there. He wrote one injection and two capsules. of ten to twelve devotees. Meanwhile a Sevak Instructed me “If this does not respond, don’t was taking a betel of Lord Jagannath to offer come to this hospital, go to I.D.H.” I took one goddess Vimala. I thought of, he is taking injection from Pharmacist on duty and one Chandan and Tulsi. So, I used to spread hand capsule. But there was no sympton of motion after but Sevak denied. He is taking for Samarpana. I left home. Emotionally I told “Hati ! you are sending betel By the time I came to catch Rickshaw, it for Vimala but since two hours I am talking of was almost dawn. I sat in the said Rickshaw. Puller your glory, no betel !” rolled back to Singhadwar. After Singhadwar Within few seconds, one black Sevak where he goes. I wanted to know out of curiosity came out of Jagamohan with a betel in hand and because of his silence. “Is He Lord Jagannath told “Patra Babu ! Take this betel !” All got Himself who serves me in such critical hours as astonished. Meanwhile one told “This old sevak Rickshaw Puller.” I thought. He took Rickshaw does not come at night. Because of Patra Baboo, to Kakudikhai Chhak crossing Singhadwar and then to Gandua Chaura Chhak. When he started Jagannath has sent this !’ Others told “He may be driving on Lokanath Road my heart melted. “Ah Mahaprabhu, Himself. Thanks to that Almighty. ! it is He who gives service to me as Rickshaw 10) How Jagannath served as Rickshaw Puller !” Puller : On Manikarnika Sahi Chhak, one truck After retirement once, since one O’clock was unloading cement. The road was blocked, to three O’Clock night, I had ten to fifteen loose no space for Rickshaw to pass on. He jumped motions. There was no medicine at home.To avoid down smiling and told. “Only few yards are left

JUNE-JULY - 2019 83 ISSN 0970-8669 Odisha Review out to reach home. Now I became doubt free. standing in front of Kansari Pati, looked at. He is Lord Jagannath, my beloved son, heart of Meanwhile a boy of 12/14 years old, wearing all hearts. I immediately descended from Rickshaw. white came to me and asked ‘Patra Babu ! How Embraced and kissed Him very violently and told is the Vesha (Attire) today ?’ I told “As that of ‘why did you become Rickshaw puller ! You could previous years.’ He asked then ‘Have you not have stopped my motion at home instead of taking gone to Snanabedi for darshan ? “Because of to Hospital. Very prestigious role you have chosen the rush of the people, I have not, I told. Then he for me !” He touched my knees and feet with told “Are Maharaj, come with me. There will be reverence and left smiling although I did not want no rush. Then he pulled my hand “come on”. to part with. I thought “Because I have not gone for darshan, How Jagannath served His father, you Jagannath has come in disguise. He, very safely see !! took me to Snana Mandap without any obstruction. Bamboo barricading was there. 11) Miracle of Balabhadra : Devotees were not allowed to touch presiding I was engrossed in writing article deities. He called Daita standing in front of “Khetradhi Nayak Balabhadra”, when I went Balabhadra and told ‘Patra Baboo is going’. through the word ‘Sattahasam’ in ancient I crossed barricade and went to Lord Balabhadra. scripture, thought of within “your laugh seems to Out of affection I caressed His face and told be normal one. Is it a special laugh with you ?” “Hati ! Because I did not come inside, you arranged so.” When I inserted my fingers in the In the evening, I came to the temple as shirt pocket to bring out money purse, Purse was usual, ‘Standing in Natamandir I embraced and not there ! Out of anger,I told pointing out my kissed all. But before going to Kirttan Chakada fingers towards gods and goddess. “You are all when I looked at Balabhadra, His face turned to dacoits. In disguise of that boy went to me and a big human face with big teeth laughing. pickpocketted.” Then I told all devotees I exclaimed and told ‘Yes Baba ! I saw your standing, “you see that boy has vanished ! With gigantic laugh. “Laugh continued for half minute. cajoling and wheedling words he brought me here My doubt was cleared. Later, sitting by the side from Kansaripati. Pickpocketed my purse.” All of Gauranga Padapadma, when I recalled, were astonished. thought came to me “if I share this incident, will anybody believe !” Out of anger, I did not touch Subhadra.But when I looked at Jagannath, I felt 12) Miracle of Almighty : ashamed of. He told “Bapa ! Have you not Out of anger I did not write anything on written, Krishna is a thief in your article ? I am no Lord Jagannath for publication in car festival issue other but Krishna !” of ‘Utkal Prasang’. I wrote an article instead Sri Kshetra Mohan Mohanty, Inspector entitled ‘Govind Damodar Madhabeti’ and sent Police was on duty. He asked “What happened?” that to I & P.R. Deptt. for publication before “I shall tell you later”, I told, I came to Baishi bathing ceremony of Lord Jagannath. Pahacha thereafter and stood there hands Few days later, the above ritual came. I crossed, brooding over. Meanwhile did not go to the temple day time. At night, Sj.Padmanava Pujapanda came and asked me,

84 JUNE-JULY - 2019 Odisha Review ISSN 0970-8669

“Have you finished darshan?” I abruptly told the asked. “Baboo ! Do you want to purchase dry incident. He immediately replied “Because you fuel ?” I asked “How much, you will take for both are His father, He has done in a light way ! What the bundles ?” He replied “Quite reasonable, even was there inside purse ?’ I told “Recently 4 annas less from market rate.” He took both the purchased that purse paying Rs.20/- or Rs.25/. bundles to our courtyard. Wife and mother both Some Rs.20/- might be there inside alongwith wondered. How Jagannath has helped me. I told some paper chits containing some addresses and “If Jagannath will arrange Rice, dal, vegetable telephone nos.” He said with a little smile. “Theft how pleasurable it would be !” All started laughing. is very light. Perhaps to make you know -Krishna Few minutes later, thought bubbled “Perhaps that is no other but myself, He did so, We worship black man is Jagannath !” Jagannath in Krishna Mantra.” What a wonderful leela pastime He did ! 15) Grace of Lord Alarnath : I was suffering from Heel - gangrene in 13) How He offered Ballav Bhog : both the heels of the legs.Unable to move some Ballav Puja was over in Jagannath temple. feet even. From early morning it starts. That was I promised not to beg or purchase Ballav. If time of ‘Anasar’ During this period devotees go anybody will offer me Ballav voluntarily. I shall to Alarnath for darshan. Lord Chaitanya was accept. After some time, while paying prostration staying there, during this period.Every year, I go to Mukteswar Mahadev, in the rear side of to Alarnath during this period. I requested my wife Muktimandap, I saw Sj. Basudev Rath. He was to go tomorrow.Abruptly she replied “How can going home with handful of Ballav to offer to his you go there with severe gangrene ?” mother. But when he saw me, his mind changed and offered me, Ballav. Thereafter he told me how With much difficulty, next day at about his desire changed.When I expressed my desire 10 A.M. we reached Alarnath Chhak in a taxi he exclaimed. “Oh ! this was meant for you. from Puri.With little support of wife, I went to Mahaprabhu knows all hearts,” I told “because Alarnath. While walking on the way, I thought of every heart is His abode, He knows all, Antaryami “Let, there be no priest or devotee inside “garbha is He.” gruha’ of the temple. “And there was none inside except we two. I affectionately told Alarnath 14) How Jagannath arranged fuel : “Baba ! if you offer such like gangrine, how can I I was then in our old house. Years back, come to you for prostration !” I caressed His while washing my face in early morning, wife face twice, thrice fondling. Then we came back complained “No fuel is there Mother is suffering to Puri in the same taxi after circumambulation of from fever. Immediately arrange fuel for cooking. the temple. I went to road side verandah of our home, While Two days later, when I recalled gangrine cleaning my teeth with brush I thought of “I am of my heels, asked my wife, “when and how my gone mad for you. I read, write, speak and pay gangrine has gone away ?” With a laugh she prostration, if you create such like problem what replied “After fondling Alarnath, you walked like I would do !” a normal man during circumambulation of the Meanwhile one black man carrying both temple. Since then pain has vanished due to grace the sides dry fuel bundles came to our gate and of Alarnath.”

JUNE-JULY - 2019 85 ISSN 0970-8669 Odisha Review

16) Grace of Goddess Vimala : Pratistha ?” “Yes, How much you will take ?” Years back, due to vomiting and head I asked. He said “as you please.” reeling, I thought of blood pressure has increased. Because no flooring was there, on one If pressure continues, it may be difficult to remain Asan Brahmin sat and on other two husband and at Puri. I can’t have regular darshan ! wife. He arranged Homa (sacred fire). Meanwhile At about 10 O’clock night, standing I thought of within “if Gruha Pratistha will be with below the buttom step of Vimala temple of invitation of all gods and goddesses of Jagannath Srimandir. I fervently requested Vimala “Maa ! If temple, it willl be best.To my utter astonishment I don’t stay at Puri none can dare fondle you he started utttering and so on. Wife grumbled like me. Who can embrace and kiss you, say. I “what short of Gruha Pratistha is this !” I made hang about your neck leaving all. If you neglect, I her silent. Brahmin circumambulated temple and shall go away.” I was telling all loudly because invited all peripherial deities including presiding none was there nearby. deities of the temple to grace the function. He moved round four corners of the house and But while leaving that place, one offered Mahaprasad as Bali. Looking at me he Homeopath whom I know intimately told “Sir, I said smiling “I have made this house Jagannath have heard everything. What has happend ?” temple.” Wife was not satisfied. When I narrated, he said “it is not blood pressure. Due to indigestion only the head reels. If you take, I thought of within “perhaps the Brahmin ‘Kalifos 6x’ it will be cured within few hours only.” is no other but Jagannath. He made this home After I took that, I was miraculously His sacred abode.” cured, How goddess Vimala has arranged a 18) (a) God loves my reproach and exhibits doctor behind and cured me ! grace : 17) Miracles in Gruha Pratistha : My right wrist was fractured. Due to New house, where I stay now was not dashing of one Auto rickshaw during last part of completed then. Even without flooring, windows Aswina. Two to three days later, Karttik month and doors, I was forced to do Gruha Pratistha came. “During Karttik, trinity of the Temple get by my younger brother, and mother, even though decorated with golden ear rings etc. in Radha nowhere it is performed. To my good luck that Damodar Vesha (attire), whereas with much pain was Akshaya Trutiya. When I approached our I take my meal in the Hotel with spoon. It is family priest, he denied. Ultimately I went to prarabdha, inevitable for jiva. I flared up, while Jagannath temple in quest of a Brahmin. While locking the door and reproached “You nonsence ! paying prostration to Lord Jagannath I shared you are extremely selfish” soon after I scolded, everything with Mahaprabhu` with flooded eyes. the pain vanished. When I came to the road after locking, no pain. “When Brahmin not available you come as Brahmin and do the needful.” I fervently That day I could take my meal with my prayed. I went to Baisi Pahacha thereafter. One hand well. Then entered to the temple and told unknown Brahmin of middle age was standing “you relish my scold, rebuke and set right the there. He asked me “Do you want Gruha issue.” How loveable, graceful you are !”

86 JUNE-JULY - 2019 Odisha Review ISSN 0970-8669

19) Grace of Almighty during critical residence. After 20th day of accident, while sitting hours : on the Hotel bed, a thought came “if this accident On 8.11.2012, at abut 9.30 PM, during would have occured outside the temple, situation ‘Sahanamela’ ritual while circumambulating Ratna would have been worse. That is why Balabhadra Simhasan, I fell down by the side of Balabhadra has done by His side with necessary arrangements because of insecured slippery floor. Left thigh was for immediate cure.” I stopped abusing Them broken with ball inside. I could not get up. I flared thereafter. On Dec. 25th 2012, I came back to up and started scolding both the brothers, my home at Puri. Regularly I went to the temple Balabhadra and Jagannath. “Days back Sj.Bhikari thereafter. Bala Bhajan Samrat died ailing on hospital bed 20) How Jagannath turned His face : for months together due to your non- cooperation. Now you have broken my thigh because I praised Years back, police station of Jagannath you in writing and speaking. You both are ruthless, temple was held in a wooden cabin just above cruel. How this accident could occur in Garva Baisi Pahacha, last part of Ananda Bazar. I was Gruha of your Temple, just by your side ! You sitting there close to the police station to see could have eliminated my prarabdha easily.” Pahandi Vijaya of Gods and goddess in Srimandir after return car festival. Lord Jagannath came People carried me flat like a dead body. climbing on Baisi Pahacha and marched towards To my utter astonishment I found, the entire Ratna Ananda Bazar. One side of the face with one eye Simhasan was covered with a white cloth. Hanging was visible only. Abruptly I told “Hati ! please from top to buttom. No deity was there. Two turn to this side”. Jagannath at once turned His thoughts swarmed in my mind then. face to offer His full darshan. Really it is (1) Perhaps you are all engaged to cure me miraculous.” or 21) How did Jagannath fulfil desire of the (2) Out of shame, concealed your bodies. devotee : After accident, Mr. Kanungo, Mr. Panda, When Lord Jagannath was in Gundicha two police officers helped a lot. They took me to Mandir, Sj. Raghunath Panigrahi, a reputed singer general hospital, Puri. Dr. Kundu referred the of Gitagovindam met me. In course of talk he matter to Kalinga Hospital, Bhubaneswar. expressed his agony “Patra babu, I sing Geeta Mr. Rabi, constable, intelligence intimated my Govindam in different parts of the country but accident to my elder son who was then in Western unable to sing infront of Lord Jagannath.” Then Africa from brother’s house. I am thankful to them. I told “non can sing in Garva Gruha of Srimandir. I remained in Kalinga Hospital, BBSR for It is strictly prohibited. Do you want to sing today about 17 days. I scolded both the brothers in front of Lord Jagannath ? I shall arrange for Balabhadra and Jagannath for their negligence you. You know my relationship with the Lord. and non cooperation. Immediately he said “he is your beloved son”. After discharge from Hospital, I remained Meanwhile Sj. Laxman Das, Daita arrived in a Hotel “Golden Palace” for about 1 month there. We all went inside. Panigrahi babu sang because there was no comod system in the Geeta Govindam with tears rolling down his

JUNE-JULY - 2019 87 ISSN 0970-8669 Odisha Review cheeks. He expressed his thanks. “Patra Babu, Although I was sick since three days, I was going you have fulfilled my inner desire today.” regularly to the temple. While taking Mahaprasad 22) In quest of Jai fula in Navakalebar on left entrance - verandah of Snanabedi, I felt ritual : suffocated and fell down on side step and became It relates to Nava Kalebar of 1996. Bulu senseless. Bleeding was there from my chin. I had was working then in Dist.Judge Court and during finished Mahaprasad but not washed my face or night time engrossed in preparation of flower- hand. locket of presiding deities of Srimandir to be used After some time, I felt some two persons in Bada Simhar Vesha. I was in habit of sitting by carrying me. At a distance, some were telling “He the side of ‘Pada Padma’ then. is that Budha Babu regularly coming to the temple Once while expressing his agony, Bulu and some other, he is Patra Babu. They took me told “Sir ! All are demanding,’Jai-Phula’ for to emergency ward of temple and left me lying Nabakalebar ritual but no ‘Jai Phula’ available. on floor. Pharmacist there on duty, asked me Have you seen anywhere Sir.” Then I informed would you like to go to the hospital ? I replied one Advocate’s wife of Heragohiri Sahi who “No need of. Please give me rest.” comes daily and sits by the side of Padapadma. ‘Jai Phula’ plant is there in front of road side Meanwhile Shyam and Bubuli went over Verandah of their residence.You try to collect receiving phone message. I sat on chair. from her. Pharmacist did some first aid work. When I asked Bulu brought some Jai Phula what was Pharmacist “who has brought me here ?” used in ‘Ghata Paribartan’ of Nava Kalebar ritual. Pharmacist replied “Two Bengali persons. They Bulu told “Father knows everything of son.” were talking in Bengali.” Immediately I said “why any Bengali will come to Snanabedi during night. 23) Wonderful expression of Sj. Madhusudan Pujapanda : Moreover I do not relate to them. “They are both the brothers Balabhadra and Jagannath rendered Sj.Madhusudan Pujapanda, retired service to their father in disguise.” All got Senior Class-1 Officer in Administrative astonished. Department, Odisha served as Pujapanda in Ratna Simhasan for some years. Once he told me 25) Glorious past and present of mine : “a miraculous thing happens. Soon after I finish a) I was then SDO “Asst. Engineer”, worship of Lord Jagannath, Mahaprabhu directs Rushikulya Bridge Sub-divn., Ganjam. Gokuli me to offer Tulsi and Chandan to his father, Er. Raghunath Patra. After I descend down I search Babu was contractor of the Bridge. He stopped for Sri Patra and miraculously I see him in different his contract work and filed a claim suit against places and offer. How graceful is Lord Jagannath department in tribunal. Er. P.L.Swami was the towards him ?” Executive Engineer and Er. Balaram Sahoo was Jr.Engineer then. 24) How Balabhadra and Jagannath, rendered services : Mr. Kalidas Lahiri, Retd. Dist. Judge was Jhulan ‘Swinging Festival’ was in full swing the Arbitrator of the Case. Mr. Dwarikanath Das, in Srimandir on 3.8.2017, thursday, Ekadasi. Advocate was Govt. pleader at Puri and

88 JUNE-JULY - 2019 Odisha Review ISSN 0970-8669

Mr. Muzibur Rahaman, Govt. pleader at BBSR. made you to salute him”. I replied “He is alive. I Mr. Gangadhar Rath was Advocate General then. am much younger to Him.” Gentleman nodded I being sub-divisional officer was his head. attending case every time. Once executive I switched on to main point and asked engineer and Jr. engineer attended the case with “How could you know, I am Kasyap Prajapati !” me. Mr. A.R. Rao Chief Engineer, National He pointed out a mat spread over floor and Highway wanted to discuss on development in explained “I was engrossed in meditation with Arbitration next morning by 10 A.M. So we my Gurudev but your image came thrice in remained in two suites of Annexe of PWD between. When I asked my Gurudev, he replied Bungalow near Kalpana Chhak, BBSR. “Kasyap Prajapati is sitting in the annexe lounge. Next morning by 9 A.M. myself and Jr. Go and meet him.” Without killing time, I opened Engineer were waiting for Ex. Engineer in Annexe door and availed darshan of yours. You are very lounge. Meanwhile a strong and stout gentleman young. I am unable to pay you proper respect, wearing all white cloth and banion came out from reverence although I came to know your glorious the adjacent suite. Looking at me abruptly asked past and spiritual height from Gurudev !” : “Do you know , What were you in the previous Meanwhile E.E. came out of his suite life ?” Surprisingly I asked “Yes, What was I ? and made us hurried. Looking at the gentleman He replied in a confident voice “You were Kasyap I told “We are going to attend C.E’s discussion. Prajapati”. Then I narrated Kasyap is the father We may go back to Puri thereafter. “ He told of Baman, Lord Bishnu. Later he became smiling “I doubt, you may not”. His words gave Dasaratha, then Basudev, Nanda etc. me momentary shock. Instantaneously he told “don’t you love Lord Discussion with Chief Engineer was Jagannath as your beloved Son”. I wondered sanguine but we could not go back to Puri. E.E. “How this gentleman, Could know my heart of went to his friend’s lodge. We two serched for hearts ?” lodging house because we left annexe in the I requested then “kindly give your morning. But we could not get vacancy in private identification.” He replied “I am an ordinary man lodge. Ultimately went to the rear gate of the I.B. in comparison. Today is very much auspicious for - annexe. To our surprise he was waiting for me. I got your darshan.” He opened his single shutter He advised care taker to open one suite and we door. We both stood leaning to the door and kept our bags and baggages. gentleman in front. Stretching his hand he pointed out a portrait of a saint, kept on a table adjacent Then he requested to go to his suite and to the wall infront. I turned my face without made us sit on his cot. He gave identification on salutation. Then he asked “Have you seen him my request “I am Nabakishore Mohanty, an before ! Do you feel any spiritualism, devotion ? Industrialist and brother-in-law of Then I told “Excuse me ! I donot feel inferior to Er. A.B.Mohanty, Chief Engineer, National them.” Then he told “He is my Gurudev Baya Highway No.5.” Baba.” Immediately I removed chapal and Then he narrated “you are an effulgent saluted. With a smiling face gentleman asked “What gem covered with dust. So you are unable to shine

JUNE-JULY - 2019 89 ISSN 0970-8669 Odisha Review and radiate lustre of the past.” He advised to match Once while 1st day ritual was in full swing my horoscope with Bhrugu Samhita, kept under in Srimandir, I wanted to enter inside Jagamohan the custody of Sj.Rasbihari Das, Mahant through Beharana dwara in front of Maharaj, Ganjam. “You will know your glorious Muktimandap. The constable of the temple past and spiritual height. If required you may cite prohibitted telling “Jay-Vijaya dwara’ closed. our meet in the I.B.” he said. Pandas are engrossed in worship.” From Bhrugu Samhita, I could know I I sat down on the step brooding over was Brahmajata i.e. son of Bhagaban Brahma. ‘When Kashyap is sitting outside, whom are you In all my past lives , I was initiated with Gopal offering Deepa ?” To my utter astonishment Sj. Mantra. I loved Bhagaban Bishnu and His Lokanath Mohapatra, Lal Maharia Nepal Panda incarnates as my sons only.Perhaps to make me came out of Jagamohan and asked me “Why are know all these, Lord Jagannath had posted me in you sitting here ?” I narrated Police prohibition. Rushikulya Bridge Sub-Divn., Ganjam. Sj.Mahapatra expressed. “He is a great devotee During my stay at Ganjam I was initiated of the Lord, why don’t you allow.” I entered with ‘Sadakhyara Gopal Mantra’ by Gurudev inside and stood leaning to the side wall and Goswami Damodar Mohapatra at Puri. I chanted observed ritual fully. I fell ecstatic to have darshan counting beads relentless. Once Lord Jagannath of Trinity wearing all white cloth and sacred advised me “Baba! you were engrossed in threads. Tears rolled down my cheeks. I felt austerity and meditation years and years after. You spiritually elevated, “really I was no other but donot do that. We want fatherly love and Kashyap Prajapati. Balabhadra, Jagannath and affection from you. Love us, fondle us as your Subhadra all are my sons and daughters.” son’s and daughters.” At home I wrote an article captioned Dear reader: please donot think, I have “Srimandire Devadipabali” which was published hired or learnt this ‘Batchalya Prema’ from in Prajatantra during that festival period of that anybody. At the time of initiation I requested year. Gurudev to offer me ‘Santan Gopal Mantra’ i.e. (c) When I was in service, friends ask me ‘Sadakhyara Gopal Mantra’ only but no other. “How Balabhadra and Jagannath are your sons, I inherited this habit of my glorious past. During Siva Parvati, Brahma Savitri your parents ? Both my childhood days I tell Jagannath, Ram, Krishna Siva Parbati, Brahma Savitri are paying are my sons. So the people at home laugh at. As prostrations to Ratna Singhasan -deities standing the years marched on, the faith and love became behind Garuda Stambha.” My reply was “they mammoth. seem to me as such. Remember in Somanath (b) Deva Dipabali rituals are performed Temple, Gujurat and in Puskar Tirtha, Brahma every year in Srimandir for three days in the month and Bishnu, Siva and Bishnu are paying of Margashir, day before and after including new prostrations respectively. All pay prostration to moon. During these days Lord Jagannath offers each other. Brahma,Bishnu, Maheswar all three Deepa to His beloved parents. On first day, He are supreme Gods. But still then their question offers Deepa to Kashyap and Aditi. was bubbling within seeking real solution.

90 JUNE-JULY - 2019 Odisha Review ISSN 0970-8669

Once near Bhitara Katha of Jagamohan, very fervently where was I embrace and kiss other I asked Jagannath affectionately “Hati ! people gods and goddesses as sons, daughters and are asking me How I am your father and Siva daughter-in-laws.So Balabhadra and Jagannath Parvati, Brahma Savitri my parents ? I am unable along with incarnates and Nabagrahas are my to tell them correctly. Simply I say “they seem to sons. Subhadra, Bhubaneswari my daughters. me as such”. As ‘Jiva’ my intellect is limited but Bimala, Mahalaxmi, Sridevi, Bhudevi, Saraswati as Brahma your intellect unlimited. After long are my daughter-in-laws. To me all are my own. invoke He replied “Baba ! you were Kartikeya, I donot treat them as gods and goddesses as Deva Senapati. So Siva Parbati were parents. others. Engrosseod in long austerity and meditation you 26) You are mine own : became Manu. Manu was engrossed in long austerity to see formless God in form. When God Once in Bahar Katha Srimandir i.e. Nata appeared in form, you prayed to be his father. So Mandir, I requested Jagannath “your Sudarsan from Kartikeya you came to the present order. will save me at the time of panic as in the case of You became Sutapa, Kasyap, Dasaratha, Ambarish in Srimad Bhagabat.” Soon after I Basudev and Nanda etc. At intervals you come uttered this my heart was squeezed and I felt and offer us fatherly affection and love. Kasyap perturbed. Out of anger, I asked “what is this Prajapati was manasputra of Bhagaban Brahma. you do ?” Then He told Ambarish case is different That is why Siva Parbati and Brahma Savitri from that of yours. Ambarish is devotee but you happened to be your parents and we are your are my father. You have seen pralaya in dream. beloved sons and daughters. Was there Sudarsan tell me? As I was floating, you were also floating in waters. After you d) Clarification in Dream: embraced me felt solace, panic free. During your Once at night in dream, I saw myself critical hours, I jump myself to save you. I donot climbing Kailash mountain, flanked by my parents wait for Sudarshan. Then I told “because I read Siva and Parvati. I was going on talking and both Srimad Bhagabat, I cited the case of Ambarish. were laughing at. Soon after dream, I could not Please excuse me. You are my heart of hearts. know I was Kartikeya, Deva Senapati, beloved You are mine own and I am yours. son of Siva and Parbati. Some days later, in some Dear Reader, “Worldly mind can not ancient scriptures I could see Kartikeya was conceive of colossal spiritual power of God which transformed to Manu after long austerity.” Lord governs entire cosmos. Fans and bulbs of a Bishnu and incarnates are my sons and Srimandir reputed company function well. If current stops, my home. As Graharupi Janardan, I love all grahas both rendered inactive. As we do not see current as my sons. we do not see spiritual power. When we behold e) Not only that, many time while entering somebody prosperous, it is due to grace of into Jagamohan near Jaya Bijaya gate I have seen Almighty only. Please love God as your own. You both the brothers sitting on Ratna Simhasana salute will flourish.” me with folded hands. Reciprocally my hand is raised in ‘Ashirbad mudra’ and I bless them with eyes flooded. So in Srimandir, I bow down my head Er. Raghunath Patra, Brundaban Dham, Lokanath Road, on the lotus feet of Siva Parbati, Brahma Savitri (Patanahat Sahi Chhak), Puri - 752001.

JUNE-JULY - 2019 91