Auto Life Sketch of Malladihalli Swami

Auto Life Sketch of
SRI SRI RAGHAVENDRA SWAMIJI
English Rendering: SRI N. S. CHIDAMBARA RAO

Auto Life Sketch of SRI SRI RAGHAVENDRA SWAMIJI
To narrate one's own life is often a very challenging

attempt. Because, truth is very great—so great that it cannot
be captured in mere words. Experiences are mute; to
translate them into comprehensible language is not very
easy. Anyway, a host of my admirers and well wishers have
been persuading me to sketch my life story. I had attempted
once, a number of years ago, through my two novels in
Kannada— "MULEYS HANDARA" and "CHITHEYO
SAMADHIYO". But, they were explicitly treated as fiction and
not fact. Hence, I have tried to sketch briefly, the chronicle of
my humble me, in this book.
An occasion also arose to write this monograph—

during March 1991, the Centenary Celebrations in view of
completing my one hundred years of life, were held. To
commemorate this occasion, my well wishers thought of
bringing out a Souvenir. The Editorial Board had asked me
to write about my life and my views. There was no sufficient
2

time at my disposal. Anyway, I put this writing in black and
white, in a hurry. But, I am quite sure this writing will be a
true source for those who write my biography, in future.
I depicted my brief life sketch in Kannada. This was

rendered into English by Sri N. S. Chidambara Rao, Superin‐
tendent of our Teachers' Training Institute, and my hearty
blessings to him for his concern and interest. My blessings
are also to Kumari Sharada & Sri Ravikumar who typed
neatly the Press Copy of the text. My heartfelt thanks are
due to Sri Nithyananda Printers, Bangalore for their neat
and timely printing.
Om
Raghavendra Swamiji
3

It has been a long cherished tradition to christen and

call by some name a new born baby; it has also been a
custom among us to address the animals and birds that we
tame, with pet names. Likewise, it is obligatory to give some
name to the writings, such as story, novel, play, song, poem,
lyric, ballad, folksong, essay‐etc, in the field of literature.
Similarly, this souvenir bears a name‐"WHAT IS WHERE?"
The Editorial Board of this Souvenir has commanded

me—a command of love, of course—that I should write to it.
Hence this article. I think it necessary to write in detail, the
detailed chronological chronicle of this Ashram, before I try
to say "WHAT IS WHERE?"
The name of this Ashram is "ANATHASEVASHRAMA OF

MALLADIHALLI." This Malladihalli is a small hamlet in some
obscure corner of this wide nation. There is a proverb in
Kannada, which says that even the thread is respected on
account of its association with the flowers. This is applicable
to this village, which is the thread, known worldwide, by the
virtue of its association with the Anathasevashrama.
Because the Ashrama was established in this village, the
name of the hamlet has been a polestar in the universal
heavens.
As the name itself indicates, this Ashrama is a fine

blending of both temporal and spiritual aspects of life. Many
paths are recommended to secure the blessings of the
Almighty and his realization, in Yoga. Selfless service is one
of those paths. The same idea is explained by Sri Krishna in
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Bhagavadgeetha as Yogah Karmasu Koushalam. This

means— "Do your duties, not allured by selfish motives,
without desiring for any temporal benefits and considering
your action as the worship of the Almighty."
The summum bonum of the eighteen PURANAS by the

great sage Vyasa is told within one sloka Paropakaraya
punyaya, papaya parapeedanam. The meaning of this sloka
is—It is a fine virtue to help and serve the needy and
oppressed, whereas it is a great sin to exploit and torture
them. What else it be other than righteousness, to render
untainted and selfless service to humanity with an outlook
of worship to the Almighty? The adage "Service to humanity
is service to God" has the same implication.
As already alluded above, Lord Krishna said in Geetha

"Yogah Karmasu Koushalam". What is the need of any skill
(Koushalam) for a selfless worker? Yes, herein lies the
greatness. Here there are a number of meanings hidden
behind the term Koushalam such as, tact, intellect, boldness,
fear for God, dislike towards name and fame etc. I am just
placing before you one or two examples, to make this point
clear.
For instance —some institution, some training camp

there...A particular person was placed in charge of looking to
the management of the camp. His wife also joined him in this
endeavour. Every chance of exhibiting their power,
authority, cunning behavior and deceit during the twenty‐
one days of the camp was utilized. At last on the Valedictory
5

day of the camp, the person made every arrangement to get
the Lion's share of the prizes and awards in his favor as well
as his wife's and daughter's, in spite of the protest from all
the participants of the camp. Likewise, the same kind of
activity is being found in both small and big circumstances
in the various associations and institutions at all levels—
rural to national.
Whether it is private sector or public sector, the

dealings everywhere are one and the same. Though there
are virtuous persons in these fields, though they are well‐
educated, they are spoilt by the evil minds everywhere, who
shove the people, society and the nation as a whole into an
unfathomed abyss. Do you want any other living example to
this, other than our India? Every Government who have held
the reins of the administration after independence have
shown the same kind of action.
Therefore, let there be a true Koushalam while serving

the nation‐whether man or woman, whether civilian or
rustic. Koushalam means a kind of attitude to crush the
selfish motives, and cherish an attitude of selfless service.
We should perform all our duties like a sacrifice and we
should burn down our brutal selfish motives in that holy
fire. Then only we endear ourselves to the Almighty.
Some rich merchants approached Lord Jesus and

demanded him to show God. Jesus replied to them that he
could just pierce a camel through a needle hole rather than
showing them God. They asked him again how they would be
6

able to have the vision of God. And Jesus replied—
Unless the heart will be pure and sweet—unto that of a
child, Doth not thou dream of the vision of thy Father.
Hence, though Karmayoga appears to be very common

to say and hear, its practical side needs greater skill. Though
we are performing our duty, we should not get ourselves
involved in it, like the lotus leaf in the water.
Our preceptor used to say: "Look here, selfishness is a

gum, stuck to our fingers (mind). This gum sticks firmly, in
spite of our dislike towards it. A high degree of skill is
needed to disentangle ourselves from this gum". Should we
discontinue our selfless service because it is very difficult to
disentangle? Who can say about the heaven and hell of our
future? Sage Thulasidas said that service to the poor and the
oppressed, the ailing and the orphans should be done.
Considering their pains and sufferings to be ours, during our
short life time, and this would be the way to God realization.
An ordinary person would have said—"What shall I do

with heaven and hell? Let us enjoy this life till I live". A fool
of this caliber is found in millions, in this country. But how
many selfless workers can be found? The names of
Rantideva and Divodasa, king of Kasi are immortal in the
great story of Mahabharatha‐similarly, the name of St. Adam
in Christian literature is eternal.
Rantideva had lost everything and was suffering from
7

hunger and thirst; but God presented Himself before

Rantideva and asked him about his requirements. He
replied: Natwaham Kamaye Rajyam, Na Swargam, Na
Punarbhavam; Kamaye Dukhathapthanam Praninam
arthinashanam. "O God, I do not want to get back my lost
Kingdom. I do not want even Heaven, I do not want another
birth also. If you want to grace me, kindly allow me a chance
to eradicate the pains of the poor who are suffering". This is
the height of selfless service found in Rantideva‐an ideal
personality.
My dearest brethren, Please don't think that I am

deviating from the fact as to what is there in the Ashrama. If
you drag the hand, the entire body follows‐similarly if I tell
something about the Ashrama, something related to myself
as its background should be dealt with‐there is no wonder in
this fact. Therefore I shall briefly touch a few facts about me
and then explain about the Ashrama.
An obscure corner in Kerala happens to be my birth
place. I was the only ailing child to my parents. It is said that
I was not conscious till the age of fifteen. My mother was
bringing me up as an invalid in a cradle. (Such lean and
invalid children are brought to our Ashram now for
treatment).
My original name is Kumara Swamy. Anantha

Padmanabha Nam‐boodiri was my father, who was also a
very great astrologer. My mother was Padmambal who was
suffering from consumption on account of her only ailing
8

son. The inhabitants of Kerala are usually the devotees of Sri
Mookambika of Kollur. Thus my mother persuaded her
husband to have a pilgrimage to Kollur with her ailing son.
They travelled on foot, walking one or two miles every day
and halting on the way for rest. No amenities for travelling
were available in those days.
Thus having travelled for a very long duration, this

family reached Barkur, a village in Dakshin Kannada District
and stayed in an outhouse of some building. Forced by
circumstances, they had to stay there alone for a longer
duration. My father became very popular both in Barkur and
in the surrounding villages, on account of his skill and
knowledge in astrology. Ramachandra Shastry was another
astrologer who dwelt in Bhirthi, a nearby village. He heard
of the advent of Anantha Padmanabha Namboodiri from
Kerala, and visited him in Barkur.
The very first meeting of these two scholars brought

them very close and Ramachandra Shastry often visited
Namboodiri to discuss about Astrology; he used to stay with
Namboodiri for one or two days. Now, the owner of the
house was one Narasihmaih who had given shelter to
Namboodiri. Narasihmaih and his wife Puthali Bai had a
great regard for Ramachandra Sastry.
Now, one Swamiji of Mantralaya's Raghavendra Swamy

Mutt had put up at Bhandarkeri Mutt, which was very near
to Barkur. Mantralaya Peeth is respected by everyone even
to‐day. Hence, a host of devotees heard about the arrival of
9

Mantralaya Swamiji and rushed towards Bhandarkeri Mutt.
My mother Padmambal also went there with her ailing

son. After the usual ceremonials, the devotees received
Prasadam and went away. But, my mother was still sitting
there. Grasping her intention, the Secretary of the Sri Mutt
approached the Swamiji and told that the wife of the famous
astrologer of Kerala awaited the Darshan of Swamiji.
The Swamiji himself came out and enquired her as to
what the matter was. My mother explained to him all about
her only son, with a pathetic tone. The Swamiji assured her
that she need not worry herself for the boy, who had every
chance of being a very famous person in the days to come.
Thus the Swamiji blessed her and her son with holy "Phala‐
Mantrakshata". The mother was extremely happy and she
returned to Barkur with her son, with quick steps.
She was highly pleased with the assurance of the

Swamiji that her son would be famous. The very words of
the Swamiji's blessings had filled every drop of her blood
with new enthusiasm and fresh life. Is there any decrepitude
to a mother's love? It is always juvenile. My mother hurried
back to Barkur, enchanting the very words of the Swamiji all
along her way and instantly reported the same to her
husband, in all eagerness. He too felt glad. But recognizing
the uncontrolled bliss in his wife, he solaced her and advised
her to take rest a while.
There is a traditional saying‐Too much of joy leads to
10

sorrow. The same thing happened in my mother's case. She
passed away within a week after the above incident. This
incident affected my father's heart very gravely. Of course,
he did not feel sad at his wife's death. He had well
understood the eternity of birth and death. He only felt
worried about the upbringing of his only invalid son.
At last, he implored the house‐wife Puthali Bai to look
after his invalid son. He also requested her husband and
owner of the house, Narasihmaih. But there was no
acquiescence from them. By chance, Ramachandra Sastry of
Bhirthi heard about the death of Namboodiri's wife and
hurried to console him. Namboodiri was hopeful when he
saw Ramachandra Sastry. He begged Sastry to persuade
Puthali Bai to bring up his only son. Sastry, in turn appeased
Namboodiri, and employing all his skill in persuading
Puthali Bai, brought about an adoption in favor of me, to
Puthali Bai and Narasihmaih.
Thus the first chapter in my life seemed to have ended.
The very next day, Namboodiri handed all his earnings by
way of astrology, to Puthali Bai and went on a pilgrimage to
North India.
From that day onwards, I was brought up as a son to
Puthali Bai and Narasihmaih. I never remembered any of the
past events of my life. Not only this; everybody considered
me a native of Barkur, as I was brought up there alone. I was
rechristened as Veera Raghavendra on the day of my
adoption to Puthali Bai, in view of the fact that I was
11

bestowed as a gift from Raghavendra Swamiji of Mantralaya.
I do not know the why and wherefore of Yoga, but from
that very day my abilities both physical and mental began to
develop. I started my education in an indigenous private
school. Later, I got admitted into the Higher Elementary
School in Barkur. I never lagged behind in my studies. I
secured first class marks in all the other subjects except
English in which I secured marks for a just pass.
Even to‐day, I very well remember; I was highly

antipathic towards English since my young age. I never gave
any attention to that subject. But, I had a great affection
towards music from my childhood itself. I was educated in
Karnataka Music till Varna and Kirtan. I used to sing
melodiously devotional songs. I could sing the songs of
Bhajan (Group devotional songs).
I participated in many dramas enacted during the

School Anniversary Celebrations. In some particular Year—
the drama was CHANDRAHASA—I took a role in the drama,
and when I entered the stage, there was a loud applause and
clapping from the audience. There was some song from me;
the audience would shout "once more" and I never had to
disappear without singing the song, at least three to four
times. My special hobby was Yakshagana Bayalata and Thala
Maddale.
Not only in my place, but anywhere within the radius of
two or three miles from Barkur, if there was any Yakshagana
12

performance, I would be present there well in advance

before the "Chowki Pooja" (a kind of green room for the
artists). Thus I remembered by heart many a "Prasanga"
(The text of the play). The very next day I would begin
dancing Yakshagana, in the yard in front of my house.
After completing the Higher Primary Examination in

Barkur, I was admitted to the High School at Coondapur. I
did not lag behind in my studies, there too. But, I would
secure just marks in English, which I disliked very much. I
was very mischievous then, but my mind bent upon
literature by the influence of Shivaramaiah who was my
Kannada Pandith.
Since then, I would listen to the lessons in the class with
concentration and spend the rest of my time in the study of
literature. I opted for Sanskrit in my high school studies, and
it helped me a lot in the improvement of Kannada. While
studying at Coondapur, there was an incident which brought
about a metamorphosis in my life.
I had returned from school, one Saturday to Barkur. On
the very same day, I was acquainted to Sri Nityanand
Swamiji who blessed me with Tarakayoga (Shaktipatha
Yoga). After this rare incident, my mind was entirely bent
upon spiritualism. From that day onwards, an inner urge
developed in me to have the vision of God and to be one with
God and to have the rare experience of Samadhi.
13

I sat meditating in lonely places like forest, hillock and

the ruins of old temples. But I would be greatly worried
when I neither had the vision of God, nor could get Samadhi.
I would beg and implore whoever saint, or bairagi, or baba
or religious master I used to meet—"Have you seen God?
Would you please show me God? None of them could show
me God—how could they show me any God when they had
never seen one? At last, somehow I completed my
examination and wrote to my house—"It is my grave
intention to have the vision of God. So, I am leaving for the
purpose. Do not try to trace me out. Please take away my
bag and baggage left in my room". Thus I left‐Whereto?
Sri Nityananda Swamiji who blessed me with Tarakayoga
Then, the name of the saint, Sri Siddharudha Swamiji of
Hubli was very popular. So, I thought of realizing my mission
14

with the help of that saint and straight away came to the bus
stand. A motor was leaving for Shimoga. I folded my palms
humbly and begged the driver as well as the conductor of
the bus to take me to Shimoga. I don't know what they
thought of me and my request; but the driver agreed to take
me in his bus and provided me a seat very next to him.
The bus started. I was afraid if I would be recognized by
any of my acquaintances. I was very gloomy. But the driver
talked to me very cordially and instilled in me confidence. It
was eight 0' clock in the night when I reached Shimoga. The
driver had known about my mission‐Hence, he took me to
his home. I had my supper in his home. Next morning, he
was kind enough to pay me five rupees for my journey
expenses and directed the way to railway station and the
route I should travel to reach Hubli. On his directions, I was
able to reach Hubli by seven O' clock in the next night. I
enquired the whereabouts of the Ashram of Sri Siddharudha
Swamiji and went there. The evening preaching was over
and arathi was going on. I had not eaten anything since the
morning.
Where should I go? The need for food increases, when

all the ways of food are remote. My pocket was already
empty. My attention was not towards the arathi. By that
time, an old couple approached me and inquired about my
sad story. They took me to their lodging, which was a small
room adjacent to the Ashram. It seemed that they were
issueless‐but gave me half of the food they had prepared for
themselves. They shared the remaining half between
15

themselves. They provided me a bed and sheet.
I felt annoyed when I saw I had snatched away half of

their food. But the couple were very happy. The next
morning, they asked me to stay with them as long as I stayed
in Hubli. They asked me not to be hesitant. Of course I
nodded. At the time, the Sidharudha Mutt was full with
preaching, Bhajan, discussion always from morn till night. I
also used to go and sit in the group. My mission was unique‐I
must meet Sri Siddharudha alone and request him to show
me God.
After patiently waiting for three weeks, I pushed myself
through the crowds one day and laying myself prostrated at
the feet of Sri Siddharudha I called him "Oh.. Grand Sire".
The Swamiji stared at me and asked me in his rustic fashion
what I wanted. I very timidly asked him if he had the vision
of God and whether he would show me. The Swamiji burst
into laughter and said that I was too young for such pursuit.
He bade me go and sit for preaching. I further demanded
him if God could be seen by listening to the preachings and
discussion.
The Swamiji was struck with wonder at my

interrogation. He praised me for my matured way of talk,
but looking a while at me, he snatched away his feet from my
hands and said that he was not my Guru and ordered me to
go elsewhere. I wanted to know from him who my Guru was
but it was not possible for me to meet him again, though I
stayed there for some more days.
16

I was regularly fed by the old couple. But I thought that
it would be not decent on my part to be an unnecessary
burden to the couple. At the same juncture, I chanced to
view in a newspaper about the famous Amba Prasaditha
Drama Company of Mangalore, which had camped at
Tumkur. For the first time in my life, I thought of eking out a
way to live.
Hence I approached the old couple and said, "I could not
fulfill my mission here—now, if you kindly help me, I want
to go to Tumkur. There is a drama company well known to
me. I want to join that company". The old couple appreciated
my point. They helped me to travel to Tumkur, but they bid
me farewell with a heavy heart.
There was the least difficulty in tracing out the drama
company in Tumkur. I reached there as a matter of course.
The first man I met there was Shivarama Karanth. He
listened to my details and replied that there was a vacancy
of a clerk for the time being and as I had a good hand, I could
undertake that work. If the work was agreeable, I could
partake in the other areas of the Company.
The owner of the Company, one Ranganatha Bhat

immediately agreed to offer me that responsibility. Thus the
account books of the company were handed over to me. In
one or two days I was entrusted with the sales of tickets and
disbursement of salary and wages to the staff of the
Company. I had also to enact minor roles in the drama. Thus
the quantum of work was very tight and restless, day by day.
17

The owner of the company was highly pleased with my neat
work, financial honesty and accuracy. The main keys of the
treasury were placed in my hands. Shivaram Karanth was
swearing to make the company an ideal home of art till then;
but on account of his some infirmity, he was disliked by all
the people in the company. Somehow Karanth left the
company, for good.
The owner Ranganath Bhat was a great actor himself,

besides being a good musician. He was able to sing Pallavi in
Southern music. He would select able and good looking
youths and give them proper training in acting. Let me place
before you an incident which happened while I was serving
in the drama company.
Some town—let me not mention its name—there was a
gymnasium of indigenous type. The master of that
gymnasium was a great wrestler, but a very crooked person.
He had placed a number of respectable persons of the town
under his thumb. People were quite afraid of him. When our
drama company had a camp in that town, this wrestler
compelled the company to allow the members of his
gymnasium to see the drama free of cost. He repeated the
same unjust means for four or five days continuously.
I came to know of his atrocities. The very next day, I
stood near the gate of the theatre awaiting that devil. He
arrived that day also in his usual colors. He had brought ten
of his disciples to get entrance without ticket. I just stood in
his way and demanded tickets. The man got furious and
18

threatened to set the theatre on fire. "You will be no where
till then" said I, giving a heavy blow to one of his sides. He
fell down and could not get up. I snatched away his big stick
and thrashed him, so that he should not get up. All his
disciples took to their heels when they saw the pathetic
condition of their Guru. The next day, my action was
appreciated by all.
The social dramas were enacted only by amateur drama
companies in those days. The credit of introducing the social
dramas by the professional companies goes to Ranganatha
Bhat. Nisha Mahima, a drama written by Shivarama Karanth
on the basis of the Marathi Drama" Ekachapyala" which was
enacted on the Maharashtra theatre and in which Bala
Gandharva played role, was enacted in Ambaprasadith
Drama Company.
"Sathi Samyukta" another historical Drama was also

enacted. I involved myself in all fields of action in the
company‐from administrative to enacting function. The
drama company was day by day becoming popular.
Ranganatha Bhat was becoming more and more popular, like
Varadachar, Garuda Sadasiva Rao etc. securing a number of
awards like Abhinaya Kala Vibhushana, Natyakala Visharad,
having won the hearts of all people. The very popular drama
companies in those days were Sri Channabasaweswara
Nataka Company of Gubbi Veeranna, Varadachar Natak
Company, and so on.
19

I was suffering from epilepsy and heart trouble, while I
was serving in Amba Prasadith Natak Company, but I was
recognized to be a good worker. It was during that period
that I received Yoga instruction by His Holiness Sri Palini
Swamiji, a great Hathayogi. But my mind was again curious
on having the holy vision of Almighty‐I left the drama
company for good, following a host of ascetics, with the fond
hope of getting what I longed for.
The turmoil I had undergone during this wandering is

inexplicable. True, for my innermost soul was indicating the
fact, that unless I would undergo these turmoil, I could never
reach my goal. It was an unexpected surprise for me to come
across many a cheat in the guise of an ascetic. A few of them
were opium eaters; a few others, heavy drunkards; a few
more, great debauchers. Thus amid these, my journey
continued, without food and drink, unclad, seeking the
whereabouts of Almighty.
I went on foot, from place to place. It was my greatest
woe that I could not find God till then; it would make me
shed tears alone not for my mendicancy, but for my inability
to witness God.
20

My feet were bleeding, due to my incessant walk; my
body was emaciated in the heat of the Sun. But I would
solace my self—"This is a kind of test by the Almighty. The
harder the test, greater would be my inner power." I shed
tears —not for woman, neither for land, nor for money but
only for a vision of God; this purpose of tears would make
me quite glad.
His Holiness Sri Palini Swamiji, a great Hathayogi
It was at this juncture, that I came across a piece of
news in a Marathi daily, that a great soul, Sri Sri Swami
Shivananda would visit Pandarapur, to deliver his holy
preaching. I immediately changed my course and with the
greatest difficulty, I arrived at Pandarapur. But to my
misfortune, I learnt that the Swamiji just left for Poona. I
straightly went again to Poona.
21

It was herculean task to trace out the whereabouts of
Swamiji, in a great city like Poona. After walking about a
long distance, for two or three weeks, I was able to find the
great soul at last; I was very successful in winning over his
heart in my favor and stayed with him. But Swamiji would
never stay in a single place. I stayed with him for three to
four years, and continued Yoga, learnt from Sri Palini
Swamiji.
Sri Sri Swami Shivananda
The nature of Palini Swamiji and that of Sri Shivanandji
were poles apart. Palini Swamiji was of silent nature, where
as Sivanandji was highly talkative. He was a great orator,
well learned man and great seer, besides being a patriot. He
would infuriate the young minds with a burning desire to
serve their motherland. He would preach that a nation is not
merely a heap of soil. The nation is a living entity. He would
22

address the youth and say that the motherland was

undergoing a lot of trouble, and that she was a servant to the
foreign power. He would offer a clarion call to the young to
strive hard to get the motherland released, forgetting the
restricted differences of caste, creed, language etc. Then he
would look at us and say that the heroes of our nation would
show their prowess through their feats. It was a signal for us
to demonstrate our feats of Yoga as well as Physical
exercises.
While I spent a few days, travelling with the Swamiji, he
would speak of another great personality, Rajaratna
Professor Manikya Rao of Baroda, who was an expert
physical culturist besides being a strict celibate.
On one of these days, there was a speech by Swamiji in
Kolaba. It was a scholarly discourse on spirituality, a piece
of his evergreen scholarship. The audience was spell‐bound
to give it a hearing. After this lecture, I was completely
overtaken by my ever longing desire of having a vision of
God. I was shedding tears, not caring about my food. The
Swamiji approached me with great love and enquired me
about my grief.
I could not help sobbing—"Swamiji, I have been with

you in this Ashram, just to have a vision of God, with your
kind blessings. But till now, you have not kept your word.
Especially after hearing your speech this day, I am unable to
control my longing to see God. Kindly show him—I beg you"
—so saying I fell down at his feet.
23

The Swamiji who was listening to me, took me up and
solaced me —"Karnataki (this was how he used to address
me). Our meditation should be according to the
environment. Have you cared to notice the surrounding
society? Crores of children living in this holy motherland are
starving, ill‐clad, hungry and ailing—now, have you
understood the pain of their innermost personalities? Are
you not moved with pity, to see your own brethren thus
suffering? And you are shedding tears to see God.
“These ailing beings are nothing but God Himself. You

must find your God in these people —Feel that their
sufferings are your own—you should try to wipe out the
tears, in the eyes of these; If, in case, you do a lot of penance
and have the vision of God, it would help you alone—but not
to the suffering million. Mother India has sent you with a
mission to put an end to the grief of these people.
You should not be selfish—now, you should render

selfless service and have the blessings of the Almighty"—
thus, spoke the Swamiji for two hours, in detail—he was
successful in bringing about a metamorphosis in my very
personality. At last, he interrogated me whether I should see
God, or render selfless service to humanity. I forgot where I
was. There was a thorough change in me. I touched his holy
feet and took an oath to follow his advice to the core.
24

As I have already mentioned, the Swamiji had immense
respect in the celibate of Baroda, Professor Manikya Rao. He
was the Bhishma of Kaliyuga. The Swamiji himself was a
disciple of the professor in his early days and had learnt the
physical culture along with the skills of using military
weapons. It was after this training, that the Swamiji
dedicated his life to the service of the Nation, after acquiring
the ascetic name of Shivananda Thirtha. But he was not an
ascetic in appearance, but a true Sanyasin, having nothing
selfish in him.
Professor Manikya Rao of Baroda the “Bhishma of Kaliyuga”
He had a thorough knowledge of the scriptures of not

only Hinduism, but of almost all other great religions of the
world. He would cite extracts from Vedas, the Bible, the
25

Quran and the like. Professor Manik Rao had a great love
and regard for his speeches. Swamiji had made it a rule to
participate in the Shivaji Mahotsava and the Gajanana
Saptaha celebrated in Baroda. I also chanced to participate
in one Gajanana Saptaha, along with the Swamiji.
I rambled there and was curious about the various

physical exercises—Even the most cowardly would be a
great hero, if the person observed these items. After the
Gajanana Saptaha, I went along with the Swamiji and while
he camped at Ratnagiri, I gave words to my wish—I
requested him that I longed to undergo the physical culture
training at Baroda, under the guidance of the professor
Manik Rao. To my great surprise, the Swamiji took me to
Baroda, the very next morning. After proper admonitions to
me on the way, as to how I should behave myself in Baroda,
we had reached the famous Jumma Dada Gymnasium in
Baroda.
As soon as the tonga stopped at the main entrance of
the Gymnasium, the Swamiji took off his shoes and walked
barefooted. I silently followed him. No sooner did the
professor see the Swamiji than he hurried to the doors to
welcome and greet. The significant meeting of this preceptor
and the disciple had no words to be explained. Manik Rao
was the preceptor to the Swamiji. Even kings and emperors
would prostrate before Manik Rao. The Swamiji had a high
regard for him—and he wanted to touch the holy feet of
Manik Rao. But the Professor would not allow Shivanandji,
as he was an ascetic.
26

I was wonderstruck to see all this. Anyway, the Swamiji
introduced me to the professor. He told that he had brought
a gem as his disciple. He told everything about my state of
mind and implored him to take me as his disciple in physical
culture. Professor agreed and the Swamiji left, leaving me
behind.
The training of my physical culture started under the

able guidance of prof. Manik Rao. The great preceptor of
Manik Rao was one Sri Jumma Dada, who lived upto the age
of one hundred and thirty years. I have heard Manik Rao say
that Jumma Dada was a great disciplinarian. Manik Rao had
acquired knowledge and virtues from his preceptor Jumma
Dada. To be frank, if there is any discipline in my behavior, it
is on account of these great preceptors' blessings.
I became professor Manik Rao's nearest and dearest,

within a month of my staying there. He would address me
"Karnataki" and assign duties—I would get up at three thirty
in the early morning, take bath in cold water and perform
Yoga practice learnt from Sri Palini Swamiji and Shivanandji.
Then I would take a little rest and be ready to undergo
physical training.
After only a few days of my settling there, I was

entrusted with the duty of prompting the prayers, both
during morning and evening. My voice, in those days was
very melodious, which attracted all the students, including
my preceptor. Especially, for Saturday prayers, high
dignitaries of the locality used to be invited. I was quite
27

innocent of all these; I used to keep everything ready for
worship, prompt prayers and present the Arathi before
everyone. Then I would prostrate before my Guru.
He used to ask the guests if he was correct in his
opinion about my singing. He would ask me to sing it again
before them. It was a prayer to God Maruthi—in Sanskrit
and Marathi. When I sang the prayer, I would feel as if God
Maruthi himself stood before me —I never lagged behind
even in physical culture; a few of the items were—lathi,
katti, dagger‐fighting, spear, sword fighting, wrestling, horse
riding; I was proficient not only in these oriental items, but a
few occidental items such as double bar, single bar, Roman
rings, weight lifting—which were learnt with the help of my
friends. A few other difficult exercises such as Malkambh,
hathyaronka Malkambh, rope climbing, rope malkambh, also
were learnt. Actually, I had no time for practice.
The timings of the Gymnasium were between 5‐00 A. M.
and 9‐00 P. M. But I would get up at 3‐30 in the morning and
go to bed at 11‐10 in the night. Sometimes, my practice
would take more time. Once, professor Manik Rao was given
to understand about my unwieldy routine. Some student had
complained against me. But he did not pay heed. He asked
the student, "Are you in any way disturbed by his practice?"
The answer was in the negative and Manik Rao told him,
"then let his penance continue".
After finishing my routine late in the night, I would go
to the preceptor to serve him, by massaging his feet. It was
28

at this time, that Manik Rao used to explain his great
practice, the blessings of his Guru and about physical culture
and its subtle discipline. It was really a feast for me to listen
to him.
One night, about 10 o' clock, I was massaging his feet; a
tonga entered the premises of the Ashram. The sound of an
awkwardly crying child was heard. Manik Rao told us,
"Listen, a boy of ten years has come. The bone on his right
thigh has broken. Hurry up, join the broken bone and apply
the ointment". We hurried down and found what he said was
true to the letter. We acted on the words of Guruji—took the
boy to the orthopedic section, joined the bone and applied
the ointment. The boy and the people who had brought him
were accommodated for the night.
We again appeared before the Guruji—we asked him

how he was able‐ to find out the truth about the boy from
such a distance. He smiled and said, "there is no miracle
about this. This is called Shabda Bhedi art. A common man
cannot understand this. But incessant practice brings home
everything clear. Later on, I began to practice that too.
I remember an incident, which happened then. Once,

Her Highness, the Queen of Baroda visited the Ashram. She
had a high regard for Manik Rao —She asked him to show
some interesting physical feat. He agreed and asked her to
get a supply of a mond of (mond is a measurement of
weight) sweetmeats, which was immediately made available.
He installed a Malkambh (a pillar to show physical feats)
29

and poured all the sweetmeat around the pillar. He ascended
the pillar, showed a few feats and jumped down. Again, he
would ascend and jump down.
The people were spell bound to see his feats. At last he
drew our attention towards the sweetmeats. In spite of his
jumping down on them for several times, not even a single
sweetmeat was broken a little. They were all intact. Manik
Rao weighed at least 160 monds —but his weight had not
damaged the sweetmeats. Later, he explained that the feat
was nothing but one of the eight achievements, called as
Laghima—An aspirant should never make use of these
achievements for exhibition. He should continue penance
and have God realization.
At this juncture, an All India Ayurvedic Conference was
held in Baroda. The President of this great Conference was a
great man Baba Lakshman Das Sadhu from Lahore. I had an
opportunity to witness, this great occasion. After seeing this
memorable gathering, a burning desire to learn Ayurveda
took shape in my mind. Immediately I wrote to Swami
Shivanandaji, stating my desire. The Swamiji immediately
hurried to Baroda
Both the Swamiji and Manik Rao had a long discussion

about my desire. At last they decided to send me to Lahore
to be an Ayurvedic disciple to Baba Lakshman Das Sadhu—
An urgent gathering was convened and I was given the title
B. P. C. and blessed. The Swami Shivananda took me to
Lahore. On the way, he told me—"Baba Lakshman Das is a
30

versatile genius. He is an adept both in Yoga and Ayurveda.
You must win over his love with modesty and care, and be
his disciple. If I take you to him and introduce you as his
disciple, he may not agree. He may ask me to teach you
these. Hence, I should not appear before him. I will take you
to the gates of Kaivalyashrama of Lahore and leave you
alone. The future attempts are left to you". Accordingly, he
left me in front of the gates of the Ashram and returned—
I very timidly entered the Ashram and stood before its

gate; Just in front, Baba Lakshman Das himself sat on a seat.
His face was resplendent with vigor and luster. I was
stunned for a while, standing and looking at him. He
interrogated me in his gentle voice in Hindi "Turn Koun Ho?"
I wanted to reply very politely; but only uttered "Mai..Mai.."
and could not talk any further. The Swamiji stood up, came
to me, and holding my hands, took me inside. "Don't be
afraid; talk calmly", he said. After recovering myself, I spoke
to him‐"Maharaj, I am not afraid even of the God of Death.
My nature is quite bold. I had seen you while your kind self
had been to Baroda for the Great Ayurvedic Conference. I
had felt quite happy with your learned speech on Ayurveda".
"What were you doing there in Baroda?" asked he. "I
was serving the celibate Prof. Manik Rao and getting
Physical Education from him".
"Oh, He is really great. He is the Homeland of manly
instruction, and an apostle of discipline. I had visited his
Gymnasium while I called at Baroda. Especially his store of
31

weapons is worthy of seeing. Even an impotent would be a
hero, by looking at those weapons. His lathi (stick) was as
big as a pounder".
He told another episode about the Maharaja of Baroda,

who wanted to take all those weapons. But Manik Rao had
refused saying, "There is sufficient room in my store of
weapons".
After this, Lakshman Baba inquired me of what I was till
them. I explained in brief all about my previous life, and told
him that I was practicing Yoga under the directions of
Swami Shivanandji and that Hatha Yoga was taught to me by
Sri Palini Swamiji and so on.
Baba heard me with interest—"you are a great

adventurer. Even your Guru, that Shivananda is also a great
man. But his life is not settled. I had suggested him many a
time to settle in some place and preach and propagate yoga.
But he is not heeding. He is a nomad" —said he.
"Maharaj, I have been striving hard to be a man, and to
realize this object, I have been serving since my boyhood,
many great sages".—I said.
"Then, you are a great robber", he told. "Quite so, I am a
great robber" was my reply.
"Many disciples who had come to the Ashram to be
educated, robbed me of many valuable things of the Ashram.
32

What do you rob here?"
"I am not an ordinary robber who steals the mundane
things. I am a robber to rob you of your great knowledge:"—
was my rejoinder.
Baba Lakshman Das was very pleased with this—he got
me into his firm embrace and took me to be his disciple. He
began to teach me Ayurveda from the very next day. He
taught me anatomy and metabolism on the basis of the
ancient scriptures written by Charaka, Sushruta, Vagbhata,
Bhavamisra, Sharan‐gadhara, Madhavachary and so on.
Baba's instructions were quite classical and in strict
accordance with the classical treatises on the Science of
medicine.
Detailed instructions were imparted on the nature and

qualities of the medicinal herbs and natural vegetation.
When there was no instruction, we used to go to the
Ayurvedic Library and study great treatises. We would also
learn by heart, the lexicons of Ayurveda by Madanpal,
Dhanwantari, Salagram's Basavaraja, Bhanuprakash and a
host of others.
We used to participate in the preparations of the

medicines in the work shop. If I was doubtful about any
topic, I would directly approach Baba and in turn he would
solve my problems. I used to make notes on those classics
and show to Baba, who appreciated very much my method of
study.
33

Thus, my study of Ayurveda was quite thorough.

Besides, I worked hard in therapeutics also. Many a patient
was cured by me successfully. In those days, medicines
prepared elsewhere were not made use of. On the contrary,
medicines were prepared and manufactured in a scientific
manner there alone, in the Ashram itself. I became an adept
in the manufacture of medicines.
The next lessons were given on Siddha Vidya or

Alchemy. This school of thought was propounded by
Nagarjuna. Viswanatha, Mahanandi, Mathsyendranath,
Kapali, Bhaluki, Agasthya and a host of others later
developed this branch of Ayurveda. This branch explains
about the cure of deadly diseases by administering the
medicines prepared by mixing the different kinds of metals
and alloys. Baba Lakshman Das had the specialization in this
branch. Whereas many other Siddha Vydyas prepared the
ash(Bhasma)using gold, silver, mercury, copper, mica,
sulphur and lead, after hundreds of burning processes, Baba
Lakshman Das would prepare the ash within the first or the
second burning process.
He was an adept in Suvarna Vada and Rajatha Vadas. He
taught me the old tradition "Siddhayoga! Before my training
was concluded, the Baba sent me to an hospital, run by
German Doctors at Lahore, so that I might see the modus
operandi. When I went there and mentioned the name of the
Baba, the Head of the Hospital immediately permitted to
have a detailed look of every part of the hospital. All the
doctors, and nurses there were from Germany only, except a
34

few menials and sweepers there who were the only Indians.
While I observed the doctors, it was astonishing to find
them serving the lepers with the utmost care and love,
washing their wounds and applying medicines and again
dress them‐without the least sense of loathsomeness. They
were all very cordial and kind to those ailing. I had a
thorough vision of the hospital from morning nine till one in
the afternoon. When I returned to the Ashram, the Baba was
awaiting. He asked me—"What Karnataki, Did you have a
vision of the hospital for leprosy?".
"Yes, Guruji", I replied. "What did you see there?"
"Guruji, I found there every doctor, each nurse viewing

the Almighty Himself in those patients". I told.
"Wonderful; You said it very well my dear boy, I wish
you should also learn and cultivate the habit of seeing God in
the ailing patients. This was my very purpose of sending you
there".
This was how he always aimed at making me an ideal
doctor.
I returned to Varuda, from Lahore and met Sri Swami

Shivanandji again—I explained to him everything in detail
— Anyway, he seemed to be unhappy about me for leaving
Baba. Again I joined him and began to go round the land,
giving demonstration of Yoga and physical culture. It was at
35

this time that the Swamiji was invited to inaugurate a new
gymnasium at Bhatkal, a town in North Kannada District.
As he was very busy, he intimated the organizers of the
function that he would send his disciple Raghavendra(me)
who knew Kannada also very well, besides being an adept in
Yoga and physical culture. Those people accepted this and
the Swamiji wrote to them that Mr. Raghavendra Rao, B. P. C.
would be coming over there on such and such a date, on
such and such a time. Accordingly, I went to Bhatkal Via
Hubli by a bus.
The entire town wore a festive look; the people gave me
a grand welcome. They shouted the slogans of "Sri
Shivanand Maharaj Ki Jai", "Sri Raghavendra Rao Ki Jai". As
soon as I stepped down from the bus, the people showered
flowers on me, and garlanded me. But the police officer who
had accompanied me, appeared before me and thundered—
"You are under arrest".
This was a surprise—but undaunted, I enquired him

about this. The reply was quite ticklish. "You bear the letters
B. P. C. after your name. You must have been a member of
Bombay provincial Congress Committee". I could not control
my laughter. I had to explain and enlarge the abbreviated
form of B. P. C. as Bachelor of Physical Culture, the degree I
was awarded. The Police Officer released me, duly
apologizing for his folly. There was a grand procession
afterwards, along the streets of Bhatkal. I delivered a talk on
Yoga and physical culture in a gathering convened in front of
36

Sri Venkataramana Swamy Temple. Every arrangement was

made for my stay there alone.
The leaders of the town had already prepared a list of
youths who wished to be admitted to the Yoga Camp to be
started the next day. Accordingly, the very next morning at
seven, I inaugurated the Hanuman Gymnasium, by kindling
the holy light and right away started Yoga classes. The
duration of the Camp was only for one week, I had arranged
to train the students the Suryanamaskar and a few Yoga
postures sufficing for a week.
The people of Bhatkala thronged around my class and

silently watch over the systematic and well disciplined
training given by me, and were very pleased. Vasundhara,
the daughter of the Police officer who had arrested me, also
was one of the trainees in my camp. After a week's training,
the valedictory function was arranged very grandly. It was
celebrated under the presidentship of a famous lawyer in
the district. After the demonstration by the trainees was
over, I gave a wonderful demonstration on the request of the
audience.
A few difficult Yoga postures were shown by me and

they were highly applauded. During the course of this
function, the police officer who had arrested me in the
beginning, appeared on the stage, and apologized to me,
with tears in his eyes. "Please, don't worry. You had done
your duty", I said. The President, in his presidential address
gave a very high ovation to me. The organizers felicitated me
37

on behalf of the citizens of Bhatkala, with a shawl and a Gold
medal. A purse with five hundred and one rupees was
presented to me as travelling expenses.
The very next day, I returned to Varuda, and explained

everything to Swami Shivanandji, placing the gold medal on
his holy feet. The Swamiji was thrilled. He wore me the gold
medal with his own hands and blessed me wholeheartedly.
The very night he had a talk to me—"Karnataki, a number of
letters have been addressed to me by the dignitaries of
Karnataka, requesting me to send any suitable person to
Karnataka to propagate Yoga and Physical Culture. Anyway,
you are the most befitting person to undertake this
responsibility. Hence, you should immediately go to
Karnataka. You should conduct yoga camps, not more than
three days in a single place. Thus, you should travel around
Karnataka".
I was shocked to leave him. I began to shed tears. The
Swamiji solaced me‐"Karnataki, each person has three kinds
of obligations to render. They are obligation to the
preceptor, obligation to the parents and obligation to the
motherland. Unless you fulfill these obligations, your life has
no meaning. Look here, you are weeping to leave me—I am
equally sad to depart with you, who are my ardent and
beloved disciple. Even then, I curtly order that you should
go, at once". The very next day, he took me to Bombay and
bade me good bye, sending me to Malpe in a steamer.
Getting down from the steamer, I went to Udupi. I
38

developed acquaintance there, and directly went to meet the
Swamiji of Palimaru Mutt, one of the eight Mutts of Udupi.
This Palimaru Swamiji was well‐known as Pylvan Swamiji
(Wrestler). I explained my details to him and requested him
to arrange for a demonstration of my Yogasanas the very
next day before him and to invite all other seven swamijis of
different mutts.
"Our Swamijis are islands‐They never mix and mingle

among themselves. But, you are a great Yogi and well versed
in Ayurveda. How can I ignore your request? I shall try to
invite all the other Swamijis who are in the station", he
promised. He made arrangements for my stay in the Mutt.
At four thirty in the afternoon of the very next day,
people of Udupi thronged in front of Sri Anantheswara
Temple to witness my demonstration. The Palimaru Swamiji
himself stood at the gate and welcomed the audience with
love and regard. He waited until all other seven Swamijis
arrived—At last, he took his seat. The demonstration started
under the presidentship of an elderly Swamiji.
The demonstration was for more than two hours, till

seven in the evening. I demonstrated the contraction and
expansion of the different muscles of my well‐developed
body. These items were witnessed by the curious audience
in a spell bound manner. After the gathering, Sri
Lakshmeendra Tirtha Swamiji of Sirur Mutt asked the
Palimaru Swamiji about my stay.
39

Thus this made all the audience greatly surprised—

because, for many years in the past, these two Heads of Mutt
had stopped talking with each other. This ice was broken
now. All the Swamijis cordially invited me to their Mutts for
receiving their blessings with the prasadam. Accordingly, I
visited each Mutt, the next day and received their holy
blessings.
After ten days, I left for Thirthahalli—a taluk head

quarters in Shimoga District. I made a visit to Bheemeswara
Mutt and Durvasapur Mutt, gave a Yoga demonstration at
Thirthahalli and continued my journey to Sagar. A Yoga
demonstration was conducted there under the auspices of
the Municipal High School. The very night, a host of eminent
lawyers of Sagar came to me and said —"Mr. Raghavendra
Rao, if you go on demonstrating this Yoga, the people feel
happy at its sight. But instead, if you stay here, establish an
Ashram and give training to the people, it will be of greater
utility. Even now, if you kindly agree, we are ready to build
up a Yoga Training School, in this town". I replied "I am not
free to act in this matter. I have been working as a
propagator of Yoga according to the commands of Sri Swami
Shivanandji".
The lawyers did not stop there. They immediately sent a
wire, asking him to permit Sri Raghavendra Rao to stay
there and impart education in Yoga. Fortunately Sri Swamiji
was present. He received the wire, noted the contents and
sent an early reply—"He may stay there for twenty days".
The people at Sagar were highly pleased. They brought three
40

hundred aspirants of Yoga, within that evening, before me. I
started Yoga classes—Suryanamaskara, Gurunamaskara,
Yogasan, Pranayam, and Dhyana were taught in the morning
hours. In the evening, lathi, dumbells, lazium, Kavayath,
Kolata and March past were taught. The people of Sagar
were highly pleased with my system of coaching.
They had a great respect for me. Whenever I got leisure
I would gather my students and participate in the social
service, like cleaning the dust of the wells, repairs to the
roads, and canals and the like. A lot of constructive work
also was done. Besides, the patients were treated also. The
valedictory celebrations were conducted under the
chairmanship of the Deputy Commissioner of Shimoga.
Next, I proceeded to Sorab. Thus I conducted Yoga

camps in all the following places —Sorab, Shiralkoppa,
Anavatti, Nyamathi, Honnali, Harnahalli, Kumsi, Shikaripur,
Koolambi, Kundur, Channagiri, Kotehal, Chirdoni,
Santhebennur, Ran‐gapur, Kodaganur, Nerlagi, Echaghatta,
Hadadi, Lokikere, Gopanalu, Thyavanige, Bada, Kariganur,
Syagalay, Kandagal, Gunderi, Malalakere, Chitrahalli,
Bheemasamudra, Harosagar, Dogganal, Malladihalli etc.,
There were more than 40 villages where I conducted camps,
and trained the people in Yoga and physical culture, to the
tune of more than thirteen thousand trainees.
Thus at last, it was in 1943 that I entered this village of
Malladihalli. The details of these camps for the period of
eight years would be a kind of dry report, if I were to explain
41

in detail. Hence, I shall give in brief the particulars of the
camps.
The purpose of my camp was not only to teach Yoga,
Sarvanga Sundar Vyayam (a kind of physical exercises,
making our body form very attractive) and massaging, but a
host of other very useful services like cleaning the
surroundings of the locality, removing the dust and welter
from the wells and ponds, bringing about unity among the
factions of the locality, curing the ailing persons, convening
the cultural gatherings, propagation and sales of Khadi, mass
marriages, prohibiting alcohol, eradicating anti social habits
like gambling, playing cards, smoking etc. I would try to

minimize the expenses on marriages and law courts. Thus, I
am treated with due love and respect by the people of these
42

areas, even to this day.
In my sufficiently long experience, the people of any of
these villages are too innocent, and unsophisticated.
Devotion in God, respect in the elderly persons, dignity of
labor and helping nature have been in born qualities in
them. They are far away from hatred, deception and
dishonesty. But, in these later decades, a few of the local
politicians have been exploiting these innocent mass, sowing
the seeds of hatred, jealousy, communal mindedness and the
like in their innocent hearts, and achieving their selfish
aims. This has been the main reason for the failure of our
Five Year Plan, Seven Year Plan, which are estimated on the
basis of the foreign loan—the money thus borrowed never
reaches the common mass, but directly fulfils the selfish
motives of our so‐called leaders, authorities and a few
middle men. Who is to set it right?
To‐day, bad elements of society unite in our Country

more easily than virtuous powers. It has been an unsolvable
problem to rectify these anti national traitors. These
horrible people are meant only for such treachery. But, at
the same time, they are good orators, as well as very good
hoarders of black money. Anyway, in my opinion, it is better
that these people understand now alone the fact that the
poor one day or the other will definitely attack them. There
are many people with power and authority, but not
patriotism.
We are in need of the nation builders—but, how many
43

of them are available? As already told, I arrived in

Malladihalli after conducting camps in more than forty
places. Now it will be a grave fault, if I do not tell you as to
what have I done here after coming to Malladihalli. Hence, I
try to place a few of those facts before you.
Before, I came here, many of my well‐wishers,

preceptors and others warned me—"you should never step
in to that village. It is not a suitable place for people like
you". But my answer also was equally determinant—
"Defects, shortcomings and vices are common to all people.
Everybody errs, except the dead ones. Hence, there is
greatness in rectifying the faults of these people." with this
determination I entered this village.
In the beginning, it was very difficult for the villagers
who were undisciplined to the core, to understand me
properly. But they came to learn of my discipline and service
mindedness which were the firm capital in me. I would get
up early in the morning, take my bath, sweep the
surroundings of the village leaders' houses and decorate the
premises with "Rangavalli" (painting the creepers with
color).
This left a deep impression on the minds of those

leaders. Soon, they themselves began to do this service. It
was at this juncture that there was an attack of the deadly
disease Cholera. The people gasped with wonder to see me
rendering my wholehearted services to the patients—both
men and animals. They yielded before my sense of
44

cleanliness and my way of curing the patients. They realized
very well that I was not a fake ascetic, an imposter or
swindler, but a real sanyasi, without any distinction of caste
or creed, serving everyone alike.
Thus there was a grand metamorphosis of their heart—
I employed this change to be a foundation of my future
plans. I built up a Mutt—for Sri Parappa Swamy who had
been a great soul of the locality. Everyday, there used to be
group prayers and bhajans in the Mutt, in the evening. I was
very much annoyed to see the Harijans (people belonging to
Scheduled Caste and Tribes)standing outside the window
and watch the group prayers.
I invited them to enter the Mutt and sit with us. But
those people did not agree to enter. I, personally went out
45

and brought those people in. It had an adverse effect on the
people in the village. But they had to bear with me, as they
had already recognized in me a great soul.
I consider that I should make the pains of others my

own. Those people need our help, and let us offer—this is
nothing but the service to God; it is a kind of worship. Here
is another incident. There was a well outside the premises of
the Ashram. The villagers used to utilize the water for
drinking. But Harijans were not allowed to use the water
from that well. I was very unhappy about the fact that the
Harijans had to use the muddy and dirty water of a small
stream in the outskirts of the village. After sometime, I dug a
46

well in the premises of the Ashram. I allowed Harijans to
utilize the water from the Ashram's well. An officer of
Veterinary Department who was a Harijan was highly
indebted to me for the water facilities from Ashram's well.
How can our leaders who quench their thirst with Whisky
and Brandy, understand the fact that even Harijans are in
need of water?
When I arrived at Malladihalli, there was yet no

freedom to the country. But, the struggle for freedom was
going on. Then an anonymous letter was addressed to
Rangappa Thimmappa, a well‐to‐ do person of this Village. It
was stated in the letter that they would attack on such and
such a day, at such and such a time, on his house—While
they plunder, he should keep ready all the valuable
ornaments along with a sum of twenty five thousand rupees
for them. They would take this booty and go away.
Otherwise, they would attack and loot his house—wherein,
murder and casualty might result in, for which they wouldn’t
be held responsible.
Thimmappa hurried to me with the letter and expressed
his anxiety and grief. I gave him solace and —immediately
arranged to display boards, on which was written—
"Anybody desirous of looting Thimmappa's house may enter
the village—but let him make sure that he will not return
with his life". Of course, I put my full name under this
writing. But nobody turned up. Throughout the night, I
would patrol alone, along the lanes and corners of the entire
village.
47

I would engage myself in the constructive work during

the entire day‐time. But, during the nights, I would indulge
in the underground activities in connection with the
freedom struggle. I am not ready to disclose as to what were
my operations during the underground activities—But, I can
only say this much—I strived hard for the sake of my
motherland, caring least for my life. At last, came that long
cherished dream realized—the freedom to India,—But now I
ask myself—"Was this freedom necessary?" For, this is not
freedom—This is only a wayward willful irresponsibility.
But this organization was formulated by us. Hence we

would correct and rectify its defects and shortcomings and
make it continue and survive. I was a Congressman—even
now also a Congressman and in future also, I will be a
congressman, till I live. But I have not claimed with the
Government any returns for my service—There are a lot of
selfish persons; those sycophants are there. Let them be like
that —I will be like this:
While I was travelling from place to place, conducting

the Yoga camps everywhere for eight years, I used to
request the people of each village to donate me lands and a
sum of ten thousand rupees to build an Ashram. Many
people were quite agreeable —but, one or two "Very noble"
persons would interfere and say—"No—no —don't give
him—He would abscond along with your money". To‐day the
same 'noble persons' are really repenting a lot, and feeling
very jealous of the growth of this Ashram.
48

While I came to this village, the local people donated

land to build the Ashram. Sankajji, and old woman donated
five hundred rupees for erecting Parappa Swamy Mutt. I
took up my begging bowl and raised alms in the surrounding
villages. The Mutt was constructed. A small dispensary of
Ayurveda was also ready. A Gymnasium took shape. A Ward
for inpatients was built. A big dining hall was erected.
Educational Institutions like Nursery school, Pre‐University
College, Yoga Training Centre, Teacher's Training Centre,
Typewriting Institute, Sanskrit School along with Students'
Hostel took shape. Three High Schools in three villages came
into being.
Besides these, Goshala, Matru Mandir, Vriddhashrama,

Yoga‐Sangama, Dhanwantari Ayurvedic Complex, residential
quarters for the teachers, well furnished guesthouses, a big
coconut plantation, dry and wet lands took shape gradually,
a property worth more than three and half crores of
rupees—all raised as alms, standing before you in the shape
of the Ashrama.
The volume of service rendered till now would be

estimated for fifteen crores of rupees, if estimated by the
Government. I have still future plans worth eight crores of
rupees. I am very confident of executing these plans in
future. Not only this, but herbs and medicinal plants of about
seven to eight thousand categories have been planted in the
plantations called Thapovana, Siddhavana, Madhuvana,
Sanjeevana Vana, Chandradrona Vana etc. Free Ayurvedic
Treatment is given on every Sunday and Monday. Till now
49

more than ten lakhs of patients have been given treatment,
with free medicines, free board and lodging facilities. Free
Yoga Training is given to the aspirants from 4th October to
24th October of every year.
Lakhs of persons men and women—have been imparted
Yoga Training till now. Indigenous simple domestic
medicinal methods are taught every year from 4th May to
15th May‐in the Griha Vydya Shibira‐free of cost. People
from all over the Nation are visiting this place for medicinal
service and Yoga education.
Fifty seven volumes are published by the Publications of
the Ashrama "Bala‐Belaku‐sahitya Male". Fifty three
volumes among these are written by Thiruka. (Yes, it is my
pen name). This Thiruka feels very proud of himself to say
that he has brought about a re‐union of husband and wife,
who were separated due to some family bickering, among
one hundred seventy well‐bred families.
It is true, a great service is being rendered here, in this
Ashram. While speaking in the ordinary sense of the world, I
say that I have done this; I have done that and so on. But
really I mean to say‐if anything good is done to society, it is
all due to that unseen great power. Our great sages have
expressed the same idea in the following manner—
"Even a cripple would jump across the mountain, a

mute would be an orator, only if the Guru blesses". This is
totally true in my case. I would like to quote another
50

incident from the holy Quran—(It appears in the first 'Sura'
of Quran). On a certain day, Mohammed Pygumber was
sitting in a cave on the Heera Hills, meditating deeply. There
appeared a form before him and said—"Thou readest".
Truly, prophet Mohammed was illiterate. So he replied—"I
cannot read". But, the form again repeated, "Thou readest".
The Prophet reiterated his rejoinder. A third time, this was
repeated‐the command from the form and the negative reply
from the prophet.
At last the form commanded him to read, in the name of
the Lord who created you with the freezing blood. The form
again told‐"Listen, your Lord is a great power. He has taught
you what man cannot understand through writing." This
applies even in my case. This is the first "Sura" or revelation
that the prophet got.
Similarly, if I say that it was I who built this Ashram, it
would be foolishness. It was that Almighty who made me an
instrument in His hands, did all these great deeds. This is
what I sincerely feel. The mother Akka Mahadevi s ays "I will
be what you want me to be". It is very essential that
everybody should understand this. If man knows the skill of
how to live, he can live without anxiety and fear. But he
should have a nice will.
I have learnt many‐a‐good lesson during this long

period of service, still have been learning too. Selfless
service is impossible unless one detaches oneself from one's
own people, ones relations, ones nearest and dearest. I have
51

been following this norm true to the letter. Once Lord Jesus
was addressing a gathering. Then someone conveyed Him
information that His mother was waiting for Him under the
heat of the scorching sun. Jesus replied—"I am seeing my
mother here itself‐in this gathering".
No creative selfless work is possible unless a

constructive minded social worker gets such a balanced
sense of equality throughout his blood. It is our foremost
duty to lead our life, keeping our dealings in such a way as
not to nullify the glory of our Nation, keeping in view that
we have a great Nation like India to be called ours with
pride, and that we have our own high culture.
Dear Brethren, I have been saying again and again that I
am a Tiruka, a beggar. But I am not ashamed of myself to
beg; because, I do not beg for myself. This mendicancy is for
the hungry and the poor. Hence I am proud of this
mendicancy. But here is a peculiarity in our country to‐day.
Once upon a time, the kings, the emperors and the rich were
awaiting opportunities to spend their wealth, if any useful
service was being rendered in the nation. But to‐day, if such
works of public utility are being done, the number of
persons who want to grab as much as possible is becoming
great. What a paradox are we finding in the present‐ day
India; I do not want to comment on the Government‐because
this is our own creation; If we spit at the sky, the saliva falls
on our own face;
Fourteen years ago, one Sunday I was sitting for Bhajan,
52

(The evening group prayers). A certain person came and

stood before me; He was very lustrous‐with his shining
white beard. I was playing on the harmonium and prompting
Bhajan, but I saluted with devotion to him in my mind and
signed him to take his seat. After the Bhajan was over, the
person came to me and asked—"Did you recognize me?" I
could remember easily. I said—"Are you not Ramachandra
Sastry?" I was correct. I asked one of my teachers to make
every arrangement for his stay and told him—"Shastriji, I
will meet you, after making due arrangements for the board
to the patients".
He was highly pleased with my services—"Alright; let

your service go on. These patients are none other than God
Himself'—he said and went away with the teacher. After
making every arrangement for board and lodging to the
patients, I once again met Sastriji. He had already finished
his evening prayers and light tiffin. He said, "Raghavendra
Rao, I had heard a lot about you and your services. I wished
to see you in person and have a talk to you. Really you are a
man with the whole world as your family" I was deeply
moved at his words—"Sastriji, you are a highly cultured
soul. I feel very pleased to see you. Well, I shall meet again
only tomorrow afternoon. Please don't think otherwise," so
saying I bade goodbye to him for the day.
The next day, being a Monday, I had to attend the

patients till one thirty in the afternoon. By that time he had
finished his bath and daily prayers—He was taken around
the Ashram and shown the latest developments. When I
53

went to meet him, he was awaiting me eagerly, with a view
to dine with me. We gladly dined together. He told me—"I
am very happy to see everything in your holy Ashram. I am
already sufficiently aged—I want to talk to you a few of the
very important facts which are related to your early life"—I
was very curious.
He related to me all about my parents who were
Keralites, and all the circumstances under which I was
adopted by Srimathi Putthali Bai. He added, "You are a great
soul, you are a pride of this land. But, it is only I who know
these true facts of your early life. If I do not convey this
information, it would be blasphemy, I thought. There are
still greater services to be rendered by you, in the days to
come". He stayed there for that day and left the next day.
I make it very clear that I do not pay any significance to
the caste or religion; but righteousness and untainted love
are highly significant in my estimation. I have erected a
Temple for Goddess Banashankari in this Ashram. I have
also built a Mosque for the Muslims of Malladihalli. While
the Mosque was under construction, I received a number of
anonymous letters. The contents of those letters are here —
"It has come to our notice that you are building a Mosque for
Muslims in Malladihalli. You must immediately stop this
attempt, else you will be murdered". It was a severe warning
to me.
But, those people have no idea—it seems to me that I
have obtained already the return ticket of my life journey
54

when I came to this world. The best reaction I showed

towards those letters was to throw them away into a heap of
dust and just continued and completed the work. I have been
erecting a shrine to Sri Beeradeva, a God adored by the
people of Halumatha.
I have also assisted in building a Temple for Harijans.

But my temple; It is only six feet...the Mother India herself is
my Goddess. Regarding the terms 'caste' or 'creed' the
following is my sincere opinion—Each caste is a part of the
body of Nation personified. In my opinion, the tussle among
the castes is as unwise as the quarrel between the head and
the limbs for their supremacy. There has not been even a
single tussle between the Hindus and the Muslims of the
locality ever since I came to this village.
There have been a few cases of arson and loot between
Hindus and Muslims, only ten miles away from this village.
Shops and houses have been set on fire in those places. But,
this village has been always a wonderful exception. Here, the
Hindus and Muslims are living like brothers and sisters. If
any procession of Hindu Gods starts in the village, the
Muslim would light incense sticks and stand with sugar as a
sign of their devotion. If any special function takes place in
the Ashram. I use to send sugar to the Mosque. If any
marriage were to occur in them, they would come to the
Ashram, with fruits and flowers, garland me and go, as a
token of respect.
Why does this not happen in other places? It is my firm
55

opinion that there is no cause for any quarrel, if they
understand each other well. In this connection, here is a
little suggestion from me —There are sixty lakhs of ascetics,
Mathadhipathies and saints. Let all of them do what I have
done here, in their respective villages, If this is done, can
there be any pandemonium, loot and unrest, or indiscipline
of any kind? If we develop devil in our heart, quarrels are
sure to happen.
I have been sincerely following certain principles

strictly—I never lend money or give loan to others. The
effect of this principle is bitter in the beginning—but in the
long run, the effect is good. (But, there is regular system of
advancing a month's salary to the staff of the Ashram,
whenever they require. The loan will be repaid with easy
installments, without any interest.)
56

My life is too simple‐my food is too simple and sattvic.
My dress is similar‐a shorts, and a half sleeved shirt. There
are innumerable people to feed me with various rich, tasty
dishes, as I am a man of wandering for alms.
So, I have controlled my food‐habits myself. This has

given me superb health. Thus my hosts need not be placed in
unnecessary trouble to prepare my dishes. I never bribe
anybody for any work of the Ashram. Hence our files usually
have innumerable halts. "Ashram's file" has been a synonym
57

for a useless thing to be thrown aside for bribing. Bribe will
be given, out of this fund and the work will be done, though
such things are quite against the norms and rules of the
Government. It is my intention to write a separate and
independent article on this topic. Hence let me stop it here
alone.
I have not done anything for MYSELF. To be frank, not
even a single account is found in any bank‐in my name. The
only account I have maintained is in the holy feet of mother
India. I have not set apart even a single pie for my sake. That
is why my life is highly contented.
I have achieved temporally‐and have I achieved

spiritually also‐ not any less. But I know full well that I too,
am a human being. I am not free from sadness, pain, mental
disturbance and the like. Even then, I do not allow this
physical body which has been reserved for service, to be
lazy. It is my longing to detach myself from this body while it
is engaged in service to this motherland. I am against the
worship to the individual. But, though unwilling, I have to
act against my will.
Someone says that he would worship my feet and

donate. Some others want to weigh me with gold or silver
and donate. I accept these offers only because they fetch
income to my Ashram. If I deny, the financial income to
Ashram may be lost. So, I leave everything to the will of
Mother Bharathi and suffer these things. But some people —
narrow minded as they are —ask. "what is the necessity of
58

worship to this Thiruka? Why should he ascend a throne?"

Really I am not at fault. The real fault is of those people who
fail to understand my innermost heart. Even a pie, got as
income through these means, is not touched by me. This all
belongs to the Ashram‐in turn all belongs to the Nation:
The education in a stupid, and a stick in the hands of an
insane are almost one and the same. With these there is
neither personal upliftment, nor national development. To‐
day our Nation and our society need selfless ideal leaders,
who can lead the Nation towards the path of development.
But unfortunately, our leaders who are like the wolves
looking after the sheep, are more in number—They tame the
sheep without any wage; The railway engine, which is meant
for dragging the compartments, is derailed now, resulting in
the fall of all the compartments.
Similarly, what is the future of our country, if the leader
who should lead the country in a better way, has gone
astray? who should tell this boldly? Our country to‐day is
full of such people as would break the Mirror into pieces, for
its fault of showing the black mark on their face. So, should
we say‐"all is due to the power of Time: Let us bow down
before Him" (Kalaya Thasmy Namah). Thus it has been an
unsolvable great puzzle.
59

National Brethren, I have depicted in this short article

as to what is here also, in response to the request of the
Editorial Board of the Souvenir "What is where." While
preparing this monograph, no plan was pre conceived.
Actually, there was not time also to follow any plan. My pen
has taken a course as directed by my mind. Therefore, there
is nothing to wonder if some inconsistencies appear here
and there, this article.
During in these recent years, many of my nearest well‐
wishers have been persuading me to write down my
autobiography. I would say funnily to them that they should
write it after my death. But, it is the intention of this Thiruka
to put the autobiography in black and white, if time permits.
It will be a reliable source of information for those
enthusiastic writers who want to write my biography.
Your modest brother,
Ba. Raghavendra.
60


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To narrate one's own life is often a very challenging

An occasion also arose to write this monograph—

I depicted my brief life sketch in Kannada. This was

It has been a long cherished tradition to christen and

The Editorial Board of this Souvenir has commanded

The name of this Ashram is "ANATHASEVASHRAMA OF

As the name itself indicates, this Ashrama is a fine

Bhagavadgeetha as Yogah Karmasu Koushalam. This

The summum bonum of the eighteen PURANAS by the

As already alluded above, Lord Krishna said in Geetha

For instance —some institution, some training camp

Whether it is private sector or public sector, the

Therefore, let there be a true Koushalam while serving

Some rich merchants approached Lord Jesus and

Hence, though Karmayoga appears to be very common

Our preceptor used to say: "Look here, selfishness is a

An ordinary person would have said—"What shall I do

Rantideva had lost everything and was suffering from

hunger and thirst; but God presented Himself before

My dearest brethren, Please don't think that I am

My original name is Kumara Swamy. Anantha

Thus having travelled for a very long duration, this

The very first meeting of these two scholars brought

Now, one Swamiji of Mantralaya's Raghavendra Swamy

My mother Padmambal also went there with her ailing

She was highly pleased with the assurance of the

There is a traditional saying‐Too much of joy leads to

Even to‐day, I very well remember; I was highly

I participated in many dramas enacted during the

performance, I would be present there well in advance

After completing the Higher Primary Examination in

I sat meditating in lonely places like forest, hillock and

Where should I go? The need for food increases, when

I felt annoyed when I saw I had snatched away half of

The Swamiji was struck with wonder at my

The owner of the Company, one Ranganatha Bhat

The owner Ranganath Bhat was a great actor himself,

"Sathi Samyukta" another historical Drama was also

The turmoil I had undergone during this wandering is

address the youth and say that the motherland was

I could not help sobbing—"Swamiji, I have been with

“These ailing beings are nothing but God Himself. You

You should not be selfish—now, you should render

He had a thorough knowledge of the scriptures of not

I rambled there and was curious about the various

The training of my physical culture started under the

I became professor Manik Rao's nearest and dearest,

After only a few days of my settling there, I was

We again appeared before the Guruji—we asked him

I remember an incident, which happened then. Once,

Both the Swamiji and Manik Rao had a long discussion

I very timidly entered the Ashram and stood before its

He told another episode about the Maharaja of Baroda,

Baba heard me with interest—"you are a great

Detailed instructions were imparted on the nature and

We used to participate in the preparations of the

Thus, my study of Ayurveda was quite thorough.

The next lessons were given on Siddha Vidya or

"Guruji, I found there every doctor, each nurse viewing

I returned to Varuda, from Lahore and met Sri Swami

This was a surprise—but undaunted, I enquired him

Sri Venkataramana Swamy Temple. Every arrangement was

The people of Bhatkala thronged around my class and