Shree Lalita Mauli – The Manaskanya Part -I

 

Shree Lalita Mauli

Life & Teachings of Shree Lalita Mauli

Part I

Called by Grace — The Awakening of Lalitadevi

The early life

We often come to understand a Mahavatar such as Bhagavan Nityananda more intimately through the lives of those who lived in His grace. The inner stature of the Sadguru is reflected in the lives He shapes. Shree Lalita Mauli was one such devotee—one whose life itself became a mirror of her Sadguru, Bhagavan Nityananda.

Her life was not merely lived; it was imbued with divinity. In her, devotion matured into wisdom, surrender flowered into strength, and spiritual grace expressed itself through simplicity and service. She stood as a living example of the guru-daughter—an ideal disciple who absorbed the Guru’s silence as deeply as His instruction.

Yet Lalita Mauli was more than a devoted disciple. She was also an ideal guide, philosopher, and noble soul. In the various roles life entrusted to her, she embodied rare balance and integrity: a devoted daughter, a wife of unwavering principles, a mother who consciously transmitted values to her child, and a committed student of life and truth. Her love for her motherland expressed itself in active participation as a freedom fighter, while her love for humanity found expression in compassion, care, and quiet spiritual guidance.

As a Guru, her compassion was vast yet unobtrusive; her presence reassuring, her guidance rooted in lived experience rather than doctrine. She walked the path of renunciation while remaining fully engaged with life, eventually revealing the stature of a Paramhansa-level woman monk, whose inner freedom was complete, natural, and unannounced.

The Parents

Shree Lalita Mauli came from the noble and religious family of Kalyanpur. Her grandfather, Shri Anantrao Kalyanpur and grandmother, Smt Shanti Kalyanpur, were both pious, hardworking and religious. Their son, Shri Shivrao, was a famous doctor with an intense inclination towards spiritualism, so much so that, although he had a flourishing practice, he left everything and went on pilgrimage. After visiting several holy places and meeting saints and monks reached Shri Ramana Maharshi. He finally settled in Tirumalai in the ashram of Shree Ramana Maharshi.

Shri Amrutrao Kalyanpur was the father of Shree Lalita Mauli. He was intelligent, sharp and a man of integrity and commitment. He was a Sanskrit scholar with proficiency in astrology. He was married to Smt Girijabai, the daughter of Shri Ramrao Kabad. This family came from the parampara of Chitrapur Math, and Shree Paramhansa Dattavatari Panduragashram Swami was their Dharmaguru. She was a devoted wife who managed the house while taking care of and serving her in-laws, elders, relatives and friends. From her parents, Shree Lalta Mauli inherited intelligence, commitment, integrity, guru-bhakti, selfless service, meditation and sacrifice.

The Birth

Smt Girijabai soon conceived, and as per the custom of those days, the first delivery of a child is the responsibility of the parents of the woman. Accordingly, she was to go to her maternal house. However, circumstances led to the delivery responsibility passing to her aunt, Smt Kalyanibai. Accordingly, the two sisters, Kalyanibai and pregnant Girijabai, took the transport of those days, the bullock cart. The rough road and the bullock cart had an impact, and Girijabai experienced delivery pain. They were just at the outskirts of Karkala, a village in Karnataka. Kalyanibai managed to take her to the village temple of Shree Krishna and request the priest to shelter them. It was Akshaytrutiya, a very auspicious day.

In Sanskrit, the word akṣaya (अक्षय) means “never decreasing” in the sense of “prosperity, hope, joy, success”, while tr̥tīyā (तृतीया) means “third phase of the moon”.^[15][10] It is so named since it falls on the third lunar day of the spring month of Vaisakha in the Hindu calendar, when it is observed.^[13] The name refers to the belief that the benefits from performing devotion and piety on this day will not go away.

Accordingly, the priest was busy with the celebration of this auspicious day. Yet, he provided them with a proper shelter where the delivery took place. Thus, Shree Lalta Mauli took birth on a very auspicious day. While she was born, the temple bells were rung, drums were beaten, conch were blown while the pooja of Shree Krishna was happening. The whole atmosphere was very divine, filled with joy and celebration, as if nature was expressing the joy on the arrival of the divine soul. What could have beena better place to take birth than the temple of Shree Krishna, who was destined be her Aradhyadevta.

The Parents

Shree Lalita Mauli was born into the noble and deeply religious Kalyanpur family, a lineage known for its values, discipline, and spiritual inclination. Her grandfather, Shri Anantrao Kalyanpur, and grandmother, Smt Shanti Kalyanpur, were pious, hardworking, and God-fearing individuals who lived lives rooted in simplicity and faith.

Their son, Shri Shivrao Kalyanpur, was a renowned and respected doctor, widely known for his skill and dedication. Yet his inner calling was unmistakably spiritual. So strong was his inclination toward higher truth that, despite a flourishing medical practice, he renounced worldly success and set out on pilgrimage. Visiting many sacred places and meeting saints and monks, his spiritual quest ultimately led him to Shri Ramana Maharshi. Drawn irrevocably to the silent radiance of Arunachala, he finally settled in Tiruvannamalai, living in the ashram of Bhagavan Ramana Maharshi.

Shri Amrutrao Kalyanpur, the father of Shree Lalita Mauli, was a man of keen intellect, integrity, and unwavering commitment. A scholar of Sanskrit and proficient in astrology, he combined learning with discernment and lived by firm ethical principles. He was married to Smt Girijabai, the daughter of Shri Ramrao Kabad, a family belonging to the revered Chitrapur Math parampara, with Shree Paramhansa Dattavatari Pandurangashram Swami as their Dharmaguru.

Smt Girijabai embodied the quiet strength of a devoted wife and an exemplary homemaker. She managed the household with grace while lovingly serving her in-laws, elders, relatives, and guests. Her life was marked by selfless service, devotion, and steadiness of mind.

From such parents, Shree Lalita Mauli inherited rare qualities—intelligence and discipline from her father, and devotion, sacrifice, meditation, and Guru-bhakti from her mother. These virtues, nurtured in an atmosphere of faith and service, would later unfold as the defining features of her spiritual life.

The Birth

Smt Girijabai soon conceived. According to the custom of those times, the first childbirth was traditionally the responsibility of the woman’s parental home, and arrangements were made for her to travel there. However, unforeseen circumstances led to this responsibility being assumed by her aunt, Smt Kalyanibai.

Thus, the two sisters—Kalyanibai and the expectant Girijabai—set out on a bullock cart, the mode of transport of those days. The rough journey and uneven roads soon took their toll, and Girijabai began experiencing labour pains. They were then at the outskirts of Karkala, a small town in Karnataka.

 

With presence of mind and devotion, Kalyanibai managed to bring her sister to the temple of Shree Krishna in the village and requested the priest for shelter. That day happened to be Akshay Tritiya, one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar—a day symbolising that which is akṣaya (never diminishing): prosperity, virtue, and spiritual merit.

Though the priest was engaged in the celebrations of the festival, he compassionately arranged a proper place within the temple precincts. It was there, within the sacred atmosphere of the Krishna temple, that Shree Lalita Mauli was born.

As she entered the world, the temple resounded with ringing bells, beating drums, and the blowing of conches, while the worship of Shree Krishna was in progress. The entire environment was suffused with joy, sanctity, and celebration—as though Nature itself rejoiced at the arrival of a noble soul.

What more sacred setting could there be for her birth than the temple of Shree Krishna, who would later become her Ārādhyadevatā, guiding her inner life and devotion?

As a curiosity, I asked a friend who studies astrology to tell me about a person born on Akshaya Tritiya. I had only the birthdate and place of birth of Shree Lalita Mauli, but not the time. He conducted a general study based on the information I gave and drew an overall life.

Birth and Karmic Context 

(An Astrological Perspective)

A preliminary astrological reflection on the birth of this child — though the exact time remains unknown — offers meaningful insight into the karmic context of her life.

Basis: A female child born on 23 April 1906, in the early morning at Karkala, Karnataka, on the sacred day of Akshay Tritiya.

In the Indian spiritual tradition, Akshay Tritiya is not merely considered an auspicious calendar date. The word Akshaya means “that which does not diminish,” and this tithi is symbolically associated with continuity, imperishability, and accumulated merit (pūrva-puṇya). It is regarded as a self-sustaining day, one on which actions performed carry enduring spiritual fruit.

Birth on such a day is often interpreted by traditional astrologers as indicative of a soul who is not entering life merely to experiment or struggle for direction, but one who comes with carried-forward spiritual capital — to stabilise, complete, and quietly transmit what has already been inwardly earned.

Equally significant is the era and region of her birth. Early twentieth-century coastal Karnataka was deeply rooted in dharmic household traditions, discipline, and devotional culture. It was not an environment of spectacle or spiritual exhibitionism. Rather, it nurtured restraint, humility, scholarship, and quiet endurance.

Within such a karmic and cultural framework, her spiritual unfolding was never destined to be dramatic or outwardly rebellious. It was to mature through conduct, responsibility, and inner steadiness.

From the very circumstances of her birth, one may discern the signs of what tradition calls an “old soul” — a being whose friction with life is minimal, whose acceptance arises naturally, and whose evolution proceeds without agitation. Such souls do not struggle loudly against destiny; they harmonise with it and refine it.

In retrospect, the day, the place, and the atmosphere of her birth form not coincidence, but context — a subtle prelude to a life that would later reveal depth without display and strength without assertion.

Childhood

Shri Amrutrao Kalyanpur, the father of young Krishnabai, was well-versed in astrology. When he studied the horoscope of his daughter, he discerned something extraordinary. The planetary alignments revealed not an ordinary destiny, but the birth of a soul marked by spiritual depth and purpose. He understood that this child was born to live a powerful and meaningful life — one guided by a higher calling.

At that time, Shri Amrutrao was serving in the Police Department. The nature of his service required frequent transfers, and the family had to shift their residence repeatedly. These constant relocations, combined with household responsibilities, began to take a toll on the delicate health of Smt Girijabai. During this period, she gave birth to another daughter, Rama, which further weakened her physically.

Managing two young children, adjusting to new environments, and fulfilling her duties as a devoted wife and daughter-in-law, Girijabai neglected her own health. Duty always came before self.

Meanwhile, Shri Amrutrao, a man of unwavering integrity, soon faced a moral test. In the course of his service, he was asked to provide false evidence against an innocent person. For him, truth was not negotiable. Rather than compromise his dharma, he chose to resign from his position. Determined to serve justice in a more righteous manner, he decided to study law.

He joined the Madras Presidency for legal studies and stood first in his examinations — a reflection of both his intellect and discipline. Thereafter, he settled in Kundapur to practice law. It was here that destiny arranged another significant spiritual encounter in young Krishnabai’s life.

During this time, Shree Paramhansa Dattavatari Pandurangashram Swamiji of the Chitrapur Math — the Dharma Guru of Girijabai’s family — had camped in Kundapur. Girijabai took her daughters, Krishnabai and Rama, for his darshan. Though still a child, Krishnabai was deeply impressed by the serene and radiant aura of the Swamiji. The silent grace of that meeting left an indelible imprint upon her young heart.

Her childhood unfolded in an atmosphere rich with devotion and discipline. In the evenings, her grandfather, Shri Anantrao, would sing bhajans. Her mother would render the Gurubodh bhajans composed by Shree Raghavdas. Her grandmothers lovingly taught her Sanskrit hymns and sacred verses. Close to their residence stood a temple of Shree Krishna, where young Krishnabai regularly attended bhajan-kirtans.

Thus, Lalita Mauli’s formative years were steeped in bhakti, integrity, scholarship, and righteous living — a sacred soil from which her future spiritual stature would quietly grow.

Girijabai’s Passing

When Krishnabai was about five years old, her mother’s health had significantly deteriorated. Despite recurring illness, Girijabai bore her suffering silently.

One day, she called little Krishnabai close and held her hand gently.

“My child,” she said softly, “today is Kartik Ekadashi, and it is Wednesday. Tomorrow is Dwadashi — the day we celebrate Tulsi Vivah. On Friday, the day of Trayodashi, I shall depart. Shree Rama and Mother Sita will come to take me. From then on, Shree Rama will be your mother. As long as you remain committed to truth and dharma, they will always take care of you.”

Tulsi Vivah is a sacred Hindu ceremony symbolising the divine marriage of the Tulsi plant (holy basil, revered as a manifestation of Goddess Lakshmi) with Lord Krishna or Vishnu. It marks the beginning of the auspicious marriage season and signifies purity, devotion, and divine union.

Girijabai was what tradition calls an “Ichchā-maraṇī” — one who possesses the spiritual strength to consciously choose the moment of departure from the body. Such souls, through tapas and purity of life, attain mastery over prana and leave the body in awareness rather than helplessness.

Krishnabai, being too young to comprehend the gravity of her mother’s words, innocently asked, “Where are you going? Where is Shree Rama? Why can I not see Him?”

With a serene smile, Girijabai replied, “I am going to Vaikuntha. Shree Rama is omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent. At the right time, you too will see Him. Trust Him.”

On Thursday, Dwadashi, the Tulsi Vivah ceremony was duly performed. Though physically weak, Girijabai fulfilled the ritual with devotion. She had already inwardly chosen the day of her departure.

On Friday, Trayodashi, she performed the Suvasini Pooja — a sacred ritual in which married women are honoured, and their blessings sought for auspiciousness and spiritual well-being. It was as though she was completing all sacred duties before her final journey.

As evening lamps were lit, Girijabai called out to Krishnabai and asked her to summon her father. Sensing urgency in her mother’s voice, the little girl hurried to bring him.

Shri Amrutrao stood beside his wife. In a gesture of traditional devotion, Girijabai placed her head at her husband’s feet. Chanting the holy name of Shree Rama, she withdrew her gaze inward. With full awareness, she raised her eyeballs toward the centre of the eyebrows — the Ajna Chakra — and consciously directed her prana upward.

In deep remembrance of the Lord, she relinquished her mortal body.

Krishnabai and little Rama stood frozen, unable to grasp what had just occurred. It was their grandaunt who softly instructed, “Krishnabai, close your mother’s eyes.”

With her delicate hand, the five-year-old gently lowered her mother’s eyelids. Then, in quiet strength beyond her years, she turned to console her younger sister.

Thus ended the early chapter of Lalita Mauli’s childhood.

Life had taken away her mother — but in doing so, it had planted within her an unshakeable foundation of faith, surrender, and dharma. The journey ahead would not be ordinary. The purpose foretold at her birth had begun to unfold.

The Growing Years and Early Marriage

After Smt Girijabai’s passing, life demanded practical adjustments. With two young daughters to care for, Shri Amrutrao eventually entered into a second marriage. Over time, he left Kundapur and moved to Kasargod, where he purchased a spacious home with a large garden. The environment was peaceful, nurturing, and conducive to raising his growing children.

Until then, Krishnabai and her sister had been under the loving care of their grandparents. Now, Shri Amrutrao brought his daughters to live with him in Kasargod, determined to provide them stability and opportunity.

Having earlier studied Krishnabai’s horoscope, Shri Amrutrao remained inwardly aware that this was no ordinary child. Though her chart indicated that life would not be without challenges, it also revealed a deeper destiny — that she was born with the spiritual strength to guide many toward higher ideals.

As a young girl, Krishnabai was lively, curious, and full of energy. She possessed an intense desire to understand the “why” and “how” of everything around her. Yet beneath this outward cheerfulness lay a contemplative depth uncommon for her age.

The tragedies that had touched her early life — the passing of her mother and the death of her uncle — had stirred profound questions within her tender mind. Living with her grandparents during those formative years, she often found herself silently reflecting:

Why did my uncle die so suddenly? Where did my mother go? What is death? Where does one go after leaving the body? What is heaven? What is hell? Who is Shree Ramchandra? What is God? What is Dharma?

Such questions did not agitate her; they awakened her. The seeds of inquiry had been sown early, and they began to germinate quietly within her heart.

When she moved to Kasargod and began living with her father, the new surroundings brought fresh experiences. The large garden became her silent companion. She tended to the plants, gathered flowers, and lovingly made garlands. Nature soothed her mind and deepened her inwardness.

At the same time, her heart was tender toward the poor and the needy. Whenever she encountered suffering, she felt instinctively moved to help. She played with children in the neighbourhood, yet she was equally attentive in assisting her father during his daily worship. Thus, her growing years reflected a harmonious blend of playfulness and responsibility, innocence and devotion.

Above all, she carried firmly within her heart her mother’s final words:
“Henceforth, Shree Ram will be your mother. If you live a life of Dharma, He will always take care of you.”

These words became her unseen anchor.

Her faith in Shree Ramchandra was not theoretical; it was intimate and protective. She never felt alone. She was not frightened by darkness or tales of spirits, for she believed with childlike certainty that Shree Ram was her guardian and refuge. This inner assurance gave her unusual courage and steadiness.

Because of her natural simplicity, helpfulness, and cheerful disposition, she was loved by all in the neighbourhood. Yet even in her liveliness, there remained an inner gravity — the quiet mark of the “old soul” spoken of earlier.

When Krishnabai turned thirteen, in keeping with the customs of the time, she was married into the respected Hatangdi family of Mangalore. Her husband, Shri Devrao, was the son of Shri Subarao Hatangdi.

With marriage came a new name — Lalitadevi.

Thus began the next phase of her journey: from a questioning child nurtured in devotion to a young housewife stepping into responsibility, carrying within her both faith and inquiry, innocence and inner resolve.

The unfolding of her life would now move into a broader field of duty — yet the spiritual current beneath remained steady and unbroken.

The First Encounter with Her Sadguru

Even before her marriage, young Lalitadevi’s life had been touched by incidents that hinted at unseen protection.

While living in Kasargod, she once accompanied other children to the seashore. In the midst of play, a powerful wave suddenly pulled her deep into the waters. Panic spread among those present. A few men immediately swam toward her and managed to bring her safely back to shore. What astonished everyone was that she had not swallowed seawater, nor shown signs of suffocation. It was as though the sea itself had released her unharmed.

On another occasion, while boarding a small boat, she slipped and fell into the water. The situation seemed perilous; rescue appeared nearly impossible. Yet, once again, she was miraculously pulled out safely.

These incidents, though frightening at the time, quietly foreshadowed a life that would be guarded by unseen grace.

Soon after her marriage, on the eighth day, as per custom, a Satyanarayan Pooja was performed in her new home. The sacred prasad was placed in a large vessel near where the young bride was resting. In the commotion that followed, two cats leapt toward the offering. In the confusion, Lalitadevi was struck severely on her forehead. She began to bleed profusely and had to be rushed to a doctor. The wound required stitches, and her head remained bandaged for over two months.

For a thirteen-year-old girl, newly married and adjusting to unfamiliar surroundings, this was a painful and traumatic experience. Yet she bore it with remarkable composure. There was no complaint, only quiet endurance.

After her recovery, she was brought to Mangalore to continue her education. It was here that an event occurred which would silently alter the course of her life.

One evening, returning home from school, Lalitadevi found the house locked; the family had stepped out. She sat on the veranda, leaning against a pillar, waiting patiently. Dusk descended, and soon darkness enveloped the surroundings. With no lamps lit and no one in sight, the young girl remained calm and composed in the pitch dark.

As she sat there, she suddenly heard a clear voice:
“Take this.”

Without fear, she extended her hand toward the direction of the sound. Something was placed gently into her palm.

Unperturbed, she asked, “What is this book?”

The voice replied, “Krishna Avatar.”

Instantly, her mother’s final words echoed within her heart. She responded with innocent firmness:
“My mother offered me to Shree Rama. While leaving, she told me that Shree Ramchandra would take care of me. If that is so, why should I accept Shree Krishna?”

Though she could see nothing in the darkness, she sensed movement — footsteps, followed by gentle laughter.

Gathering courage, she asked, “In which language is this book?”

The voice answered, “It is in Marathi. Keep it with you. At the appropriate time, you will understand Marathi.”

The voice then continued:

“Know that Shree Ramchandra represents kartavya (duty), adherence to truth, and righteous conduct. Shree Krishna is the manifestation of Vishwaprem — universal love.”

Deeply intrigued, Lalitadevi asked, “Who are you?”

The reply came softly, “At the appropriate time, this will be revealed to you.”

Then there was silence.

The darkness remained, but something within her had been illuminated.

She sat there for some time, contemplating the mysterious encounter. There was no fear, no agitation — only a quiet stirring of awareness. She preserved the book carefully, not fully understanding its significance, yet sensing its weight in her destiny.

In later years, she would recognise that this was no ordinary occurrence. It was the subtle, unseen intervention of the one who was to become her Sadguru — the guiding force who would shape her inner life.

Destiny had taken its first decisive step.

Her spiritual journey had been gently, almost invisibly, set in motion.

Shree Krishna – The Universal Love

The mysterious voice in the darkness had spoken not merely of a book, but of a principle. It had said:

“Shree Ramchandra represents kartavya, truth, and righteous conduct. Shree Krishna is the manifestation of Vishwaprem — Universal Love.”

Those words, though not fully understood at the time, had planted a subtle seed in Lalitadevi’s heart.

If Shree Ram was the anchor of Dharma in her life, Shree Krishna would become its flowering — the expansion of her heart into universal love. The path unfolding before her was not one of sectarian devotion, but of widening compassion — a feeling that the entire world was one family.

Destiny now began quietly arranging the next step.

In her childhood, someone had gifted her a small wooden chapel containing a statue of Shree Ganesha. After her marriage, she carried this little shrine with her to her husband’s home. Over time, however, the small idol of Shree Ganesha was misplaced. Despite searching repeatedly, she could not find it.

The empty chapel troubled her. It felt incomplete — as though something essential was missing.

One day, she felt an inner prompting: There must be an idol somewhere in the attic.

With the help of an elderly household servant, she climbed a ladder to the attic and began searching. She looked carefully but found nothing. Yet deep within, she remained certain that something awaited her there.

With renewed determination, she resumed her search.

Finally, beneath a large vessel tucked away in a corner, she discovered a small, beautiful idol of Shree Balkrishna — Baby Krishna.

Her heart leapt with joy.

Descending quickly, she lovingly cleaned the idol and the little chapel. With devotion and tenderness, she installed Shree Balkrishna in the shrine.

Outwardly, she was placing a deity in a chapel. Inwardly, she was enthroning Krishna-prem — divine love — in her own heart.

Significantly, that day was Ekadashi, sacred to Lord Vishnu. From that moment onward, her life assumed a new devotional intensity. What had begun as a seed was now sprouting into conscious Krishna Upasana.

Her devotion soon deepened into longing.

Lalitadevi was no longer satisfied with ritual worship alone. A divine restlessness arose within her. She yearned not merely to pray to Shree Krishna, but to experience Him directly.

She intensified her practices, observed disciplines, and followed every guidance she received that promised deeper communion. She experienced several subtle and uplifting inner states, yet the direct darshan of Shree Krishna still eluded her.

During this period, a spiritually inclined lady named Ambabai Manel visited Lalitadevi. Observing the young bride’s intense devotion, Ambabai gently advised her to chant the Mahamantra:

“Hare Ram, Hare Ram, Ram Ram Hare Hare,
Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare.”

The mantra touched Lalitadevi profoundly.

She began chanting it ceaselessly — aloud, softly, within. The repetition gradually absorbed her awareness. The outer world began to fade in significance. The Name alone seemed real.

Her absorption deepened to such an extent that she lost awareness of her surroundings. She remained immersed in joy, untouched by ordinary concerns. Her state resembled divine intoxication.

Her father-in-law, observing this unusual condition, grew concerned. Interpreting it as illness or emotional strain, he consulted a doctor. The doctor advised that she be sent to her father’s home for a change of environment, believing it would restore her to normalcy.

Lalitadevi returned to her father’s house.

But the condition did not subside.

If anything, her absorption intensified.

Shri Amrutrao, deeply perceptive yet anxious as a father, asked her gently what troubled her.

She replied with simple honesty:

“I lose awareness of my body. I feel immense joy. Nothing attracts me except the holy name of Shree Krishna.”

This was not illness. It was awakening.

The young bride who had once questioned life and death was now dissolving into divine love. Krishna was no longer merely an idol in a chapel; He was becoming an inner presence, drawing her beyond bodily identity.

Unknowingly, she was being prepared.

The love that had been planted as a seed, watered by longing, and intensified by mantra, was now ripening her consciousness for the next decisive intervention of her Sadguru.

Krishna-prem was deepening — and destiny was preparing her for transformation.

The Days of Experiences and Transformation

After spending some time at her father’s home, Lalitadevi returned to her husband’s house. The fire of devotion to Shree Krishna that had been kindled within her had now begun to deepen steadily. What had earlier been longing was gradually becoming an inner state of living remembrance.

While inwardly her heart was moving toward Krishna, outwardly circumstances began arranging themselves in a manner that seemed divinely orchestrated.

Soon, due to her husband Shri Devrao’s transfer, the family moved to Udupi — the sacred land of Shree Krishna.

Udupi, sanctified by the presence of the temple established by the great saint-philosopher Shree Madhvacharya, was not merely a town but a living centre of devotion. For Lalitadevi, arriving there felt less like relocation and more like spiritual homecoming. The atmosphere of bhajans, kirtans, temple rituals, and continuous remembrance of the Lord nourished her growing devotion.

She began regularly attending devotional gatherings, immersing herself in singing the Lord’s name and listening to sacred discourses. Every circumstance seemed to support the blossoming of her Krishna-bhakti.

Motherhood and Divine Protection

In 1923, during the advanced stage of pregnancy, Lalitadevi went to her native village Vittal for delivery, as was customary.

During this period, an unexpected incident occurred. One day, a buffalo ran amok and struck her with force, throwing her violently to the ground. The fall was severe and directly upon her abdomen. Those present were terrified, fearing grave consequences for both mother and unborn child.

Yet, astonishingly, neither Lalitadevi nor the child suffered harm.

The event was quietly regarded as divine protection.

Soon thereafter, she safely delivered her first child, a son who was named Subbarao. After remaining in Vittal for about two months, she returned to Udupi with the newborn child.

Motherhood did not diminish her devotion; rather, it deepened it. Balancing household duties and maternal responsibilities, she continued to participate in bhajans and kirtans with renewed fervour. It appeared as though every stage of her life was being guided toward spiritual maturity.

Unseen preparations were underway.

The purpose for which destiny had brought her to Udupi was about to unfold.

Meeting the “Kala Sadhu”

During summer vacations, Shri Devrao would often take the family from Udupi to Mangalore. On one such visit, their neighbour, Smt Laxmibai Nirodi, informed Lalitadevi that a great Satpurusha, popularly known as the Kala Sadhu, was visiting her house.

Hearing this, Lalitadevi felt an irresistible inner pull. Accompanied by a friend, she went eagerly for His darshan.

However, upon arrival, she learned that the Sadhu had just left for a neighbouring village moments before they reached. The news deeply disappointed her. An unexplainable yearning had drawn her there, and missing Him by such a narrow margin caused genuine pain in her heart.

As she turned to leave, something remarkable happened.

The Kala Sadhu suddenly returned.

When devotees asked why He had changed His plan, He replied simply:

“A devotee with intense desire to meet Me has come here.”

Those words pierced Lalitadevi’s heart.

Standing quietly at a distance, she observed Him with total attention, inwardly praying for guidance and initiation on the spiritual path.

The Sadhu moved among the gathered devotees, glancing at each one. Suddenly, His gaze met hers. For a few profound moments, their eyes remained locked.

Then He turned slightly away and said:

“At present, you do not need this. At the appropriate time, everything will fall into place, and all will be well. Now go home. Your Master is waiting for you at home.”

The words were direct, powerful, and unmistakably personal. Lalitadevi felt with certainty that they were meant for her alone.

She returned home silently, carrying within her an indescribable inner awakening.

In that single glance, the seed of Guru Kripa had been sown.

Her longing for Sadguru’s grace had found its response, though its full meaning would reveal itself only later. From then onward, she began studying the lives and teachings of saints such as Siddharudh Swami, feeling herself drawn ever deeper toward the Guru principle.

The Revelation at Udupi

In 1924, the Kala Sadhu appeared again — this time in Udupi itself.

He was often seen wandering freely around the precincts of the famous Shree Krishna Temple, moving like an Avadhoota beyond conventional behaviour.

During the annual Rathotsava, the grand Chariot Festival, thousands of devotees gathered as the temple chariot was ceremonially pulled through the streets. Lalitadevi watched the festivities from her veranda along with guests.

Suddenly, she noticed the same Kala Sadhu amidst the crowd.

Without warning, He picked up dust from the ground and threw it upon the moving chariot.

Mistaking Him for a mad ascetic, some people became angry and rushed toward Him. But before they could reach Him, He disappeared mysteriously.

Moments later, an astonishing discovery was made — the dust He had thrown upon the chariot had transformed into gold.

The crowd was stunned. News spread rapidly that the Kala Sadhu was no ordinary ascetic but a great realised being.

People began searching for Him everywhere.

Finally, the Circle Inspector, Shri Sunderao Kalyanpur, found Him sitting peacefully beneath a tree. Sunderao bowed reverentially and requested Him to visit his home.

The Sadhu replied:

“This One will come only if you promise to hold a Bhandara — feeding the poor from all neighbouring villages.”

The promise was immediately made.

The Kala Sadhu, who was none other than Bhagavan Nityananda, then came to Sunderao’s house. A grand Bhandara was organised on the grounds of the Mission School, where countless poor and needy people were fed.

In the midst of the gathering stood the young Bhagavan Nityananda, clapping His hands joyfully, radiating childlike bliss and boundless compassion.

For Lalitadevi, the divine drama was unfolding step by step.

The mysterious voice, the awakening of Krishna-prem, the inner longing for the Sadguru — all were now converging toward recognition.

The Guru had entered her life.

Though the final revelation was yet to dawn, the current of grace had begun to flow irreversibly.

The Initiation

After her first meeting with Bhagavan Nityananda, Lalitadevi could no longer return to her earlier state of ordinary living. Something subtle yet irreversible had awakened within her. The brief Darshan had stirred a deep inner longing. Her mind constantly dwelt on the radiant figure of the mysterious Kala Sadhu.

An intense yearning arose — she wished to behold Him again, to receive guidance, to understand the silent power that had touched her heart.

She began enquiring among friends and devotees whether anyone had news of Bhagavan’s whereabouts. But the Sadguru does not move according to worldly communication. Unknown to her, the Guru had already cast His Kurma-drishti — the unseen protective gaze of grace — upon His devotee.

One night, Bhagavan appeared in her dream.

His presence was vivid, living, and unmistakably real. Looking directly at her, He spoke:

“Are you still asleep? It is time for your awakening. If you wish to see Me, come to this place.”

He then clearly revealed the path and location where she would find Him.

Lalitadevi awoke, overwhelmed with joy. Her heart surged with devotion — yet immediately doubt entered her mind.

Was this truly the Guru’s command?
Or merely an illusion born of longing?

The human mind hesitates even when grace descends.

Throughout the day, she remained restless. After the noon meal, she sat absorbed in uncertainty.

Should I go?
Or should I remain at home?

At that very moment, as if guided by divine will, her friend Smt. Janavi Nayak unexpectedly arrived. Lalitadevi shared her dream in confidence:

“The Kala Sadhu appeared in my dream. He has shown me the exact path I may take to find Him. Will you accompany me for His Darshan?”

Without hesitation, Janavi agreed.

Taking her six-month-old child in her arms, Lalitadevi set out, following the directions revealed in the dream precisely. Step by step, faith began to replace doubt.

Soon, they reached a house belonging to Shri Sakharam Sanadi. Lalitadevi felt immediate relief — he was a close acquaintance of her husband, making her visit outwardly acceptable.

Her husband, Shri Devrai, though devoted to Shree Krishna and belonging to the revered Chitrapur Guru tradition, did not approve of wandering monks or ascetics. Lalitadevi therefore walked a delicate path, carefully balancing her deep spiritual aspiration with respect for her husband’s sentiments.

As soon as Shri Sakharam Sanadi saw her, he exclaimed joyfully:

“Oh! Have you come for Darshan of the Kala Sadhu?”

To avoid revealing her purpose publicly, she replied gently,

“No, no… we were just passing by. We felt thirsty and thought of stopping for some water.”

Even as these words left her lips, a remarkable event occurred.

The Kala Sadhu, who lay covered under a blanket nearby, suddenly rose and sat upright.

Lalitadevi immediately understood — He had risen for her.

Bhagavan Nityananda lifted His gaze upward between the eyebrows and, through silent gesture, conveyed a profound truth:

The Body and the Atman are different.

No elaborate discourse.
No ritual initiation.
Only direct transmission.

As people noticed Bhagavan had awakened, devotees began gathering around Him. Seeing the approaching crowd, He quietly moved behind the house, unnoticed by others.

Drawn inwardly, Lalitadevi followed.

There, beneath a tree, Bhagavan sat in serene stillness.

Overcome with devotion, she prostrated at His Lotus Feet.

Once again, He pointed first to His body, then to His heart, and declared in simple yet decisive words:

“Body and Atma are separate.
The Atma is the Witness.”

These few words became her Mahavakya, her lifelong spiritual foundation.

In His characteristic cryptic manner, Bhagavan uttered a few more brief instructions — words meant not for intellect but for inner awakening. Then, suddenly, He commanded:

“Now go home immediately.”

Understanding the Guru’s instruction as a sacred command, Lalitadevi and her friend bowed again and departed without delay. They hurried back and reached home just before Shri Devrai returned — grace protecting both her devotion and her domestic harmony.

The Inner Initiation

That meeting marked the true beginning of Lalitadevi’s spiritual life.

Without ceremony, without mantra whispered into the ear, Bhagavan Nityananda had initiated her into Ātma–Anātma Viveka — discrimination between the Self and the non-Self.

She was only nineteen years old.

Yet the Sadguru had awakened in her the knowledge sought by sages.

Later, she expressed this transformative experience through a devotional poem:

My age was tender, not yet twenty completed.
In a dream, He granted Darshan; thus, I met my Nityananda.
I recognised my Gururaj.
Showing the Path, He revealed His Presence —
Sitting beneath a tree, He accepted this child.

“Body is apart from Atman” — this clue He gave;
The All-pervading One manifested Whole and Complete.

O! I found Nityananda —
Truly, I recognised my Gururaj!

Thus began Lalitadevi’s journey —
not merely of devotion,
but of awakening under the silent guidance of the Eternal Master.

Reference: Shree Lalitamauli by Smt Lilatai Joshi.