Upasni Maharaj

Upasani Maharaj, born Kashinath Govindrao Upasani, was a firebrand Indian spiritual teacher known for his unconventional methods and unwavering dedication to self-realization. Born in 1870 into a Brahmin family, Upasani felt an early calling towards a life beyond worldly pursuits. His story is a testament to the relentless pursuit of spiritual truth, leaving a lasting impact on those he encountered.

Early Life: A Rebellious Spirit

Upasani’s childhood, spent in the village of Satara, India, was marked by a rebellious spirit. With little interest in formal education, he gravitated towards practices like chanting, yoga, and meditation. His austerities were often extreme, even leading him to meditate in graveyards to appease Lord Shiva. This unconventional approach reflected his deep yearning for a direct connection with the divine.

Seeking Guidance: The Path to Shirdi

As Upasani’s spiritual fervor grew, he embarked on a quest for a Guru. This led him to Shirdi Sai Baba, a revered saint known for his enigmatic ways. Drawn by Sai Baba’s magnetism, Upasani spent four transformative years under his tutelage. While details remain scarce, it’s believed that Sai Baba played a crucial role in shaping Upasani’s spiritual understanding.

Uncompromising Asceticism: Establishing an Ashram

Following his time with Sai Baba, Upasani began a period of wandering, visiting various places and engaging in rigorous spiritual practices. He eventually settled in Sakori, establishing an ashram known as Upasani Kanya Kumari Sthan. The ashram’s unique feature was a community of nuns (Kanya Kumaris) trained in Sanskrit and Vedic scriptures, a radical concept challenging traditional caste restrictions.

Living the Teachings: A Life of Service

Upasani Maharaj’s life at the ashram embodied his spiritual principles. He wore simple, coarse clothing, lived an austere life, and emphasized selfless service. He was known for his unconventional methods, often using humor and unconventional challenges to provoke spiritual awakening in his disciples. One anecdote describes him throwing a bucket of water at a meditating disciple, prompting the startled individual to question the attachment to external forms of meditation.

Legacy: A Radical Saint

Upasani Maharaj’s impact extended beyond his immediate disciples. He is considered one of the key influencers of Meher Baba, another prominent Indian mystic. Upasani’s life challenged societal norms and emphasized self-realization through unwavering devotion and unconventional practices. Upasani Maharaj left his earthly body in 1941, but his legacy as a radical spiritual teacher who dared to challenge the status quo continues to inspire seekers on the path to enlightenment.

Anecdotes

– The Test of Faith: One day, a disciple of Upasni Maharaj came to him and asked for financial help. Upasni Maharaj gave him a small amount of money, but the disciple was not satisfied and asked for more. Upasni Maharaj then gave him a larger amount, but the disciple still wanted more. This went on for several days, with the disciple constantly asking for more money. Finally, Upasni Maharaj told the disciple that he had no more money to give. The disciple was angry and left, but soon returned, realizing his mistake. Upasni Maharaj forgave him and taught him the value of contentment and gratitude.

– The Power of Love: A woman came to Upasni Maharaj, seeking help for her mentally ill son. Upasni Maharaj told her to bring her son to him, and when she did, he simply hugged the young man and said, “You are mine now.” From that day on, the young man was cured of his illness.

– The Importance of Humility: One day, a prominent spiritual leader came to visit Upasni Maharaj. The leader was proud of his own spiritual accomplishments and looked down on others. Upasni Maharaj saw this and decided to teach him a lesson. He asked the leader to help him with some physical labor, which the leader reluctantly agreed to do. As they worked together, Upasni Maharaj suddenly took the leader’s hand and said, “You may be a great spiritual leader, but you are still a servant of God.” The leader was taken aback and realized his own arrogance. From that day on, he became more humble and compassionate.