The Relationship Between Sai Baba and Shama (Madhavrao Deshpande)
Introduction
Sai Baba of Shirdi, one of the most revered saints of India, had numerous devotees who played significant roles in his divine mission. Among these devotees, one of the closest and most beloved was Madhavrao Deshpande, also known as Shama. Their bond was extraordinary, filled with deep affection, unwavering faith, and divine wisdom. Shama was not just a disciple but a trusted confidant and one of the few individuals who had free and informal access to Sai Baba. This article delves into the life of Shama, his relationship with Sai Baba, and the key instances that highlight their deep connection.
Who Was Shama (Madhavrao Deshpande)?
Madhavrao Deshpande, popularly known as Shama, was a resident of Shirdi and belonged to the Deshastha Brahmin community. He was a well-educated man and worked as a school teacher in the village. Despite being highly knowledgeable in religious scriptures, he initially lacked interest in spirituality. However, his destiny led him to Sai Baba, who transformed his life completely.
Shama’s house was close to the Dwarkamai mosque, where Sai Baba resided. His frequent visits to Baba were initially casual, but over time, his faith deepened. Unlike other devotees who treated Baba with great reverence, Shama had an informal and friendly approach. He often spoke to Baba in a carefree and playful manner, which was reciprocated with equal love and affection by the saint.
The Unique Bond Between Sai Baba and Shama
The relationship between Sai Baba and Shama was unlike that of a typical guru and disciple. It was more akin to a close friendship filled with humor, deep conversations, and unconditional love. Sai Baba often referred to Shama as his own and showered him with special care and attention. He entrusted him with many important tasks and frequently used him as a medium to convey divine messages to other devotees.
Instances That Highlight Their Deep Connection
1. Shama’s Informal Interactions with Baba
Unlike most devotees who approached Sai Baba with folded hands and deep reverence, Shama had a playful and informal demeanor. He would often sit beside Baba, joke with him, and even question him like a close friend. Surprisingly, Baba never took offense and instead enjoyed Shama’s company immensely. This easygoing nature of their bond exemplified Baba’s universal love that went beyond formalities.
2. Sai Baba’s Protection Over Shama
There were numerous occasions when Sai Baba protected Shama from harm. One such incident occurred when Shama suffered from a severe snake bite. He rushed to Baba, who reassured him that nothing would happen. True to Baba’s words, Shama miraculously survived without any medical treatment. This event further strengthened his faith in Baba’s divine powers.
3. Baba’s Special Gifts to Shama
Sai Baba often gave sacred items like udi (holy ash) and religious books to Shama, signifying his spiritual progress. One of the most notable gifts was the Vishnu Sahasranama, which Baba personally handed to Shama. Baba instructed him to read and propagate its teachings, emphasizing that it would bring immense benefits.
4. Shama as Baba’s Messenger
Many devotees would often hesitate to approach Baba directly for guidance or solutions to their problems. In such cases, Baba would use Shama as an intermediary. He would ask Shama to speak on behalf of the devotee, conveying solutions and blessings. This demonstrated the immense trust Baba had in him.
5. Shama’s Role in Baba’s Last Days
As Sai Baba’s physical departure neared, Shama remained close to him, witnessing some of his final teachings. Baba’s deep affection for Shama was evident when he entrusted certain responsibilities to him. Even after Baba’s Mahasamadhi, Shama continued to spread his teachings and help other devotees maintain their faith.
Shama’s Transformation Under Sai Baba’s Guidance
Before meeting Sai Baba, Shama was an ordinary man without much inclination toward spirituality. However, under Baba’s guidance, he gradually transformed into a devoted follower with deep wisdom. Though he never became an ascetic, his faith and devotion to Baba turned him into a beacon of guidance for others.
Sai Baba’s teachings had a profound impact on Shama’s understanding of life. He learned the importance of faith, patience, and surrender to the divine will. His close association with Baba made him an essential figure in the Sai movement, and his anecdotes became part of the sacred Sai literature.
Legacy of Shama in Sai Devotion
Even after Sai Baba’s Mahasamadhi, Shama’s role remained significant. Many devotees sought his guidance to understand Baba’s teachings. His firsthand experiences became valuable narratives that were later compiled in books like “Shri Sai Satcharitra.” His name continues to be revered among Sai devotees, and his contributions in spreading Baba’s teachings are remembered to this day.
Conclusion
The relationship between Sai Baba and Shama was not merely that of a master and disciple but one of deep affection, trust, and divine companionship. Shama’s unwavering faith and his unique interactions with Baba offer valuable lessons in devotion, humility, and love. His life stands as a testament to the power of faith and the transformative impact of a true guru. Through their bond, we see that divine love transcends all barriers and that a true spiritual connection is not bound by conventional norms.