Last Days of Neem Karoli Baba: Interesting Facts
Interesting and Lesser-Known Facts about the Last Days of Neem Karoli Baba
Introduction: The Great Escape of Maharajji
The final days of Neem Karoli Baba, often referred to as Maharajji, remain an awe-inspiring chapter in the history of his spiritual journey. While his devotees remember him for his extraordinary spiritual presence, his last days were marked by a series of symbolic and remarkable events that many devotees still recall with reverence. The period leading up to his samadhi was filled with grace, humor, and spiritual messages that continue to resonate with those who were fortunate enough to be in his presence.
Neem Karoli Baba’s departure from his physical form was as profound and meaningful as his entire life. Through his actions, words, and the divine signs he showed, Maharajji left behind a legacy that transcends physical existence. In this article, we will explore some lesser-known facts about the last days of Neem Karoli Baba, drawing from personal accounts, stories from his devotees, and spiritual insights.
The Spiritual Context of Neem Karoli Baba Final Days
Before delving into the specific events, it is important to understand the spiritual context in which Neem Karoli Baba's last days unfolded. For many years, Maharajji had been known for his miraculous acts, profound wisdom, and boundless compassion. Yet, his final days were marked by a peaceful detachment that signaled his readiness for the ultimate reunion with the divine.
A Day Like No Other: The Last Day at Kainchi
The day that marked Neem Karoli Baba’s final moments at Kainchi ashram began with a typical day of darshan, kirtan, and prayers. Both Indian and Western devotees gathered, and Maharajji engaged in the usual acts of kindness and blessings. However, there was something deeply profound about this day.
Darshan and Blessings: Maharajji spent time greeting his devotees and offering blessings. In a moment of profound humor and truth, he said, "He is your Guru. He is young, and I am old. He will live, and I will die." This comment, delivered with his characteristic wit, left the devotees laughing but unaware that it held a deeper truth.
Symbolic Acts: During this day, Maharajji performed actions that many took as symbolic. He placed one of his Indian devotees into samadhi, only to bring him back by covering his head with a blanket. This act was not only an example of his mystical powers but also a message about life, death, and the transcendence of the material world.
The Great Escape: Neem Karoli Baba Departure
As the day progressed, Maharajji indicated that he was preparing to leave, though he had never made it clear in a direct manner. His actions were subtle but filled with significant spiritual meaning.
The Final Darshan
At Kainchi, Maharajji’s final darshan was an emotional event for his devotees.
Pranam to Hanuman ji: Maharajji made a silent pranam (salutation) before the murti (idol) of Hanuman at the temple. This act was imbued with deep meaning, symbolizing his final connection to the deity he was so devoted to, and it was as if he was preparing to leave the physical form and enter the eternal realm.
The Blanket and the Last Words: As Maharajji prepared to leave for a supposed trip, he told his devotees that he was going for four or five days. In an iconic moment, as he reached the car that was supposed to take him to the station, the blanket he was wearing slipped from his shoulders. When a devotee tried to put it back on, Maharajji said, “Leave it. One should be attached to nothing.” This statement encapsulated his teachings of detachment and the impermanence of life.
The Old Woman from Bhowali: At the moment Maharajji sat in the car, an old woman from the nearby village of Bhowali arrived. Maharajji said, “Ma, I’ve been waiting for you,” and, in a gesture of profound grace, he touched her head. This moment of recognition was his final blessing to this devotee and was symbolic of his readiness to leave.
A Journey Towards the End: The Train Ride and the Rainbow
Neem Karoli Baba’s final journey was filled with moments that seemed almost surreal and divine.
The Train Journey
Maharajji, accompanied by his devotee Ravi, set off for Agra, where tickets had already been purchased. During the train ride, something extraordinary occurred that revealed Maharajji's deep spiritual state.
Maharajji’s Restlessness: The night was long, and Maharajji did not close his eyes even once. Instead, he kept waking Ravi up and saying, “I’m not tired, talk with me.” This was a moment of divine dialogue, as Maharajji spoke of many people, events, and ideas throughout the night.
The Milk Incident: At one point, Ravi offered Maharajji some milk, but the milk had turned bad. Maharajji’s response was to say, “Throw it out. I will not need it anymore.” This act, though simple, symbolized his readiness to let go of everything material and prepare for his departure.
The Rainbow and Divine Beauty: When they reached Agra, Maharajji pointed out a rainbow and said, “Look at that natural beauty. How beautiful is God’s creation, man can never make anything so beautiful.” This statement was not only a reflection of his deep appreciation for nature but also a reminder of the divine beauty that transcends human creation.
The Final Moments: Neem Karoli Baba’s Samadhi in Vrindaban
The culmination of Maharajji’s journey came in Vrindaban, where he took his final samadhi.
The Hospital Incident
While in Vrindaban, Maharajji experienced severe health issues that led to a visit to a heart specialist. Although the doctor diagnosed no issues with his heart, Maharajji’s body was beginning to show signs of distress.
The Diabetic Coma: Maharajji was reportedly in a diabetic coma, and the hospital staff administered various treatments. However, when Maharajji regained consciousness, he removed the oxygen mask, calling it "useless." This incident was one of the many signs of his transcendence from the physical realm.
The Final Words: As Maharajji's body became still, he softly repeated the mantra, "Jaya Jagadish Hare," with his voice gradually lowering until it stopped altogether. His body became peaceful, and his physical presence left this world.
Lesser-Known Stories from Maharajji’s Last Days
Throughout the final days of Maharajji, there were many lesser-known events that demonstrated his divine presence and mystical powers.
Conversations with Devotees
Maharajji’s final conversations with his devotees revealed his deep spiritual wisdom and humor.
Messages of Detachment: In the midst of his physical decline, Maharajji repeatedly reminded his devotees to practice detachment from the material world. This message was central to his teachings, and his actions in his last days served as a living example of the principle of non-attachment.
Final Blessings: Maharajji also took the time to bless his devotees, telling them to continue his work and carry his teachings forward. His final words, "When I go away, the work will go on," showed his foresight and the certainty that his spiritual presence would continue to guide his followers.
The End and the Beginning of Neem Karoli Baba’s Eternal Presence
Neem Karoli Baba’s last days were a culmination of his divine purpose on earth. Through his final actions, words, and teachings, he demonstrated the principles of non-attachment, selflessness, and unconditional love. For his devotees, Maharajji’s samadhi was not the end but a new beginning—a spiritual rebirth that continues to inspire and guide them.
Maharajji's legacy, marked by his compassion, humor, and divine grace, remains immortal. His devotees continue to experience his presence in their lives, as they live by his teachings and cherish his memories.Certainly! In addition to Miracle of Love by Ram Dass, another important source for the events surrounding Neem Karoli Baba’s last days is the book by Dada Mukherjee, a close devotee of Maharajji. Dada Mukherjee’s writings provide a deeply personal and insightful look into Maharajji’s life and final moments.
Here is the citation for the additional source:
References:
Dass, Ram. Miracle of Love: Stories about Neem Karoli Baba. 1st ed., Ram Dass Publications, 1978. pp. 371-373.
Mukherjee, Dada. Maharajji: The Divine Touch of Neem Karoli Baba.
