SatGuru 108 Baba Kishan Bhajan Sahib Ji, originally named Harnamdas, was born in Sukkur, Sindh, Pakistan. Before his spiritual journey brought him to Samadha Ashram, he was already serving as a spiritual leader at Saad Bela, a revered site in Sukkur. However, upon meeting SatGuru Baba Roop Bhajan Sahib Ji, his life took a transformative turn. Captivated by Sain Baba’s divine aura and teachings, Harnamdas became an ardent disciple and chose to dedicate himself entirely to the path of spirituality under Sain Baba’s guidance.

Spiritual Leadership

In the final days of Baba Roop Bhajan Sahib’s earthly journey, he recognized the spiritual maturity and devotion of Harnamdas and blessed him as his successor. Baba Roop Bhajan Sahib ceremonially bestowed upon him the title of 4th Gaddi Nasheen in the year 1915, just thirteen days before SatGuru Baba Roop Bhajan’s Mahasamadhi, to ensure continuity in leadership at Samadha Ashram. This ceremonial transition, marked by the Gaddi Birahjman, was celebrated by saints and devotees with devotion and reverence. From then on, Harnamdas came to be known as Baba Kishan Bhajan Sahib Ji, leading Samadha Ashram with the same dedication, humility, and spiritual zeal as his predecessors. 

In his inspiring address, Satguru 108 Baba Kishan Bhajan Sahib spoke about the infinite honor and respect of Samadha Ashram. He imparted a timeless lesson, urging everyone to live with love and compassion and to be ever-ready to assist the needy and the poor. His call to selfless service without expectations resonated deeply with the gathered devotees.

Moved by his words, the gathering pledged to embody these values in their daily lives. The heartfelt applause that followed was a testament to their appreciation and willingness to uphold the principles of unconditional love, compassion, and service to humanity.

The Origin and Significance of “Jai Samadha”

After SatGuru’s speech, the devotees began chanting “Jai Samadha,” uniting their voices in devotion. The word “Samadha” combines “Sam” (to surrender) and “Aadh” (God), symbolizing complete surrender to the divine. The chant, Jai Samadha, therefore meaning “Hail the one who surrenders to the ultimate being,” emerged as a profound expression of devotion and spiritual harmony.

A Timeless Tradition of Devotion

The chanting of “Jai Samadha,” initiated on this auspicious occasion, has since become a sacred tradition across all Samadha Ashrams. This practice serves as a unifying force and a reminder of the Ashram’s guiding principles, inspiring devotees to live lives marked by devotion, humility, and service.

The Teachings of Equality by SatGuru 108 Baba Kishan Bhajan Sahib

SatGuru 108 Baba Kishan Bhajan Sahib was a staunch advocate for equality. He welcomed people from all faiths and social backgrounds, emphasizing the universal truth that “God is Supreme for One – Sab Ka Malik Ek.” He encouraged his followers to teach their children the values of serving the poor, having good conduct, and loving all humanity. Through love and a pure mind, he taught, one could achieve inner peace, happiness, and success in life.

The Blessing of “Naam Daan” and Daily Preachings

Upon ascending the Gaddi of Samadha, SatGuru Sahib began blessing devotees with “Naam Daan” (a religious practice that involves the bestowal of initiation by a master), drawing people from far and wide. He initiated daily preachings, which became a cornerstone of his spiritual guidance and helped establish Samadha Ashram as a place of divine connection.

A Life of Discipline, Simplicity, and Scholarship

SatGuru Sahib was a man of strong morals and strict discipline, educated in Kachhi. His dedication to spirituality is evidenced by his rewriting of Guru Gobind Singh’s commentary on the Gita by hand, a holy book still revered at Samadha Ashram. He lived a simple life, wore cotton clothing, traveled by horse carriage, and found joy in nature’s simplicity.

Preaching in Sindh and Beyond

SatGuru Sahib’s attractive personality and calm nature made him beloved not only in Sindh but also in Baluchistan, where he often visited Quetta during the summers. His teachings adhered to Hinduism and highlighted the significance of Udasi saints. He reminded followers that Udasi saints are prophesied to protect humanity from evil and guide them toward moksha (liberation).

Daily Visits to Shankaranand Bharti Temple

SatGuru Sahib frequently visited the Shankaranand Bharti Temple, feeding birds and dogs along the way and engaging in spiritual discussions with the temple saint, Swami Shankaranand Bharti. He affectionately referred to Swami Dayanand Sahib as “Rishi” and maintained a close spiritual bond with him.

The Transformation of Seth Lakhmi Chand: A Lesson in Surrender and Redemption

One day, SatGuru 108 Baba Kishan Bhajan Sahib visited Swami Shankaranand Bharti Temple and noticed new bricks and sand. Curious, he inquired,

“Rishi Sahib, you have brought new bricks and sand?”

Swami Dayanand Sahib explained that the materials were for a plot belonging to Seth Lakhmi Chand, but Seth had refused to donate the land for the Darbar Sahib.

SatGuru Sahib requested Swami Dayanand to summon Seth Lakhmi Chand. Devotees brought Seth to meet him, where SatGuru humbly asked him to consider donating the plot to a noble cause. However, Seth refused.

After refusing SatGuru Sahib, Seth Lakhmi Chand was consumed with restlessness and appeared visibly tense. His wife noticed and inquired about his distress. Seth narrated the incident, and his wife wisely advised, “You should have donated the plot immediately when SatGuru Sahib asked.”

Realizing his mistake, Seth prepared a sale agreement without specifying the plot area and went to the Shankaranand Bharti Temple the next morning.

Redemption and Surrender

When Seth Lakhmi Chand arrived at the temple, he fell at SatGuru Sahib’s feet, saying, “Pardon me. I was mistaken. Here is the agreement; write down whatever area of the plot you want.”

Swami Dayanand Sahib was deeply moved by this transformation. SatGuru Sahib gently reminded everyone of the impermanence of the material world:

“This world is mortal; everything will remain here.”

Although Swami Dayanand Sahib offered to pay for the plot, Seth Lakhmi Chand refused, declaring, “You are the true owner. I only need your blessings.”

A Saint’s Guidance: The Eternal Value of Compassion

This episode is a profound example of redemption and the power of surrendering to a higher purpose. SatGuru Sahib’s calm demeanor and compassionate appeal led to Seth Lakhmi Chand’s change of heart, emphasizing the timeless wisdom that spiritual fulfillment and peace lie in selfless service and detachment from material possessions. The event remains a cherished memory in the history of Samadha Ashram, teaching the values of humility, surrender, and service to all devotees.

The Blessings of Faith: A Tale of Mata Jethi Bai and Dewan Thakur Das

As Swami Kishan Bhajan Sahib gained widespread recognition, many influential individuals, including judges, collectors, doctors, and other officers, received his blessings of “Naam Dan.”

Among the devoted followers were Dewan Thakur Das and his wife, Mata Jethi Bai. Dewan Thakur Das, a devout lover of Darbar Sahib, and Mata Jethi Bai, known for her unwavering dedication and service to the ashram, approached Swami Kishan Bhajan Sahib for his blessings.

One day, Swami Kishan Bhajan Sahib, pleased with Dewan Thakur Das’s devotion, said, “Demand whatever you wish.”

A Mother’s Request and the Saint’s Promise

With folded hands and deep humility, Mata Jethi Bai replied: “Hey My Lord, My Samadha Sai, my house is empty without a child. Hey Merciful, please bless me with a child, as nobody goes hopeless from your door ever.”

Ayo ahyaan dar te , t khali kon na waindus,
Khali jholi aaj maan , zaroor bhare waindus.
– Diwan Thakur Das

Hearing her heartfelt plea, Swami Kishan Bhajan Sahib compassionately responded:

“Dilgir na thee dilbar mitha , dilaso aa fakir jo,
Fakir ji jholi main khazano aa gheeb jo,
Sawali na wahney khali , kadhain ba fakir jo.”
– Baba Kishan Bhajan Sahib

Swami Kishan Bhajan Sahib then made a divine promise:

“Mata, you are requesting me for one child. I will give you five sons. Go and tell your family and celebrate, but remember ‘one-fifth’ of what you receive will be mine. Hey Mata, I shall be your son in the next birth.”

The Fulfillment of a Divine Blessing

Through the grace of Swami Kishan Bhajan Sahib, Mata Jethi Bai, and Dewan Thakur Das were blessed with five sons, a testament to their unwavering faith and the saint’s divine power.

The family, filled with gratitude, celebrated this miracle and dedicated themselves further to the service of Darbar Sahib.

The Legacy of Naam Dan

Swami Kishan Bhajan Sahib continued to preach the sacred practice of “Naam Dan”—the gift of God’s sacred name given to devotees for spiritual prayer. This act of faith and devotion became a cornerstone of his teachings, inspiring countless individuals to connect with the divine and lead lives of service and humility. This story remains an enduring symbol of the power of faith, devotion, and the transformative blessings of a true saint.

The Story of Seth Hazari Mal and the Power of Faith During A Memorable Visit to Karachi

Once, the devotees organized a program in Karachi, where Sain Baba delivered a captivating speech. A brilliant philosopher and orator, Sain Baba’s words brought immense joy and spiritual enlightenment to the devotees. After the speech, he invited everyone to visit Samadha Ashram to seek further blessings.

During this time, Seth Hazari Mal, the cousin of SatGuru Baba Shiv Bhajan Sahib (Sixth Gaddi Nasheen), also visited Shikarpur. Baba Kishan Bhajan Sahib was sitting outside his room with members of the common public, maintaining his connection with the masses. When Seth Hazari Mal came with his family and beloved son, Ram Chand, they warmly welcomed him, treating him as a guest, for in their eyes, guests are next to God.

The Satsang and Prasad Incident

It was Green Sunday, and a Satsang was in progress. Seth Hazari Mal was also present during this Satsang and enjoyed listening to Sain Baba’s teachings. During the time of Prasad, Doodho (milk) and Green Chatni were served to all guests.

However, Seth Hazari Mal, in a moment of pride, openly expressed his arrogance. He looked at the simple prasad and, without touching it, said:
“Saints themselves eat delicious and rich food and put simple items in front of us.”

With this statement, he left the samadhi without partaking in the prasad and returned to Karachi, fully unaware of the consequences his actions would bring.

The Consequence of Arrogance

As their train approached Habib Kot – Shikarpur, Ram Chand‘s health began to deteriorate. His fever rose to 104 degrees Celsius, and his condition worsened despite all attempts at medication. The family became disillusioned and puzzled, unable to pinpoint the reason for this misfortune.

Ram Chand’s mother pointed out the truth:
“Seth, you insulted Sain Baba’s prasad—that’s why our son’s health has suffered.”

Feeling regret, Seth Hazari Mal understood his mistake and decided to return to Samadha Ashram, seeking forgiveness.

A Moment of Humility and Grace

Seth Hazari Mal and his wife reached the ashram, where Sain Baba was seated on the upper floor. They bowed before Sain Baba, tears streaming down their faces, and with folded hands, humbly said:
“Sain Baba, I have always made mistakes because I am human. Your holiness has always shown mercy. I disgraced the prasad you gave, and I seek your forgiveness. Please, have mercy on us and heal our son.”

Hearing their plea, Sain Baba said:

“This Samadha Ashram is blessed by Swami Baba Har Bhajan Sahib. You may chant ‘Satnam’ and partake of this prasad with your son. Everything will be alright.”

The Miracle of Faith

They ate the prasad as instructed, and soon, Ram Chand’s fever miraculously disappeared. Witnessing this divine intervention, the family fell at Sain Baba’s feet, begging for forgiveness. Sain Baba forgave them, and with deep spiritual enlightenment, they returned to Karachi with hearts filled with gratitude and renewed devotion.

The Spiritual Message

Samadha Ashram teaches a profound truth:
Faith, devotion, and respect for the blessings of saints have the power to bring about miracles and inner peace. The experience of Seth Hazari Mal’s family stands as a reminder of the transformative power of humility, respect, and the sanctity of a saint’s grace. Spiritual connections, patience, and a heart full of devotion pave the path to blessings that heal not only the body but also the soul.

The Story of Thieves, Sain Baba, and the Power of Character: The Theft Incident

One night, Sain Baba was in a deep sleep at Samadha Ashram. During this time, a group of thieves stealthily entered the ashram and stole numerous items. When the morning dawned, the devotees and residents of the ashram discovered that many things were missing. They immediately approached Sain Baba, requesting him to lodge a police complaint about the stolen goods.

But Sain Baba, with profound wisdom and spiritual insight, replied:

“All things belong to God, we also belong to the same Lord, complain for what?”

The Thieves’ Redemption

Just as Sain Baba finished his words, the thieves returned to the ashram, their eyes filled with remorse. They stood before Sain Baba and admitted their inner turmoil:

“We could not rest at all, and there was no peace of mind after we stole the goods from this Ashram. We surrender everything back to you. How sinful we were to even think of stealing something from the place of a great and holy saint. Shame on us. Sain Baba, please forgive our mischief and take your things back.”

Hearing their confession, Sain Baba addressed them with deep compassion:

“Dear ones, we don’t have any love for these worldly things. These will remain here. What truly matters is our character. Therefore, you must never feel greedy for material possessions. Work hard and earn your living through honest and fair means.

 “Lobhi jo mann lobh mein, kadain na tarpat thhye,
Jein ghee ahhooti saan, baha kadain na ghat thye.”

SatGuru said,

“Greed is a very bad quality. It was greed that made Kans, a bad king, lose his kingdom. It caused Dhirodhun to send his five brothers away from the palace, leading to his downfall. It was greed that led to Keykai sending Shri Ram and Lachman away from Ayodhya, wishing for Bharat to become king instead. It was also greed that made Prithvi Chand torture Guru Arjun Dev to take his seat.”

“Jite daya athey dharam ahye,
Jithe lobh athey uthye paap,
Jithye kurood athye kaal ahye,
Jithye khimya prabhu AAP.” – Bhagat Kabir

A New Beginning for the Thieves

These powerful teachings deeply touched the thieves’ hearts. They became emotional, fell at Sain Baba’s feet, and with folded hands, requested:

“Baba, we need your blessings to start a pious life now. Only if Your holiness blesses us, shall we find true happiness.”

Sain Baba, embodying mercy and compassion, forgave them. The satsangis began chanting the slogan of ‘Jai Samadha’, a symbol of devotion and unity.

The Journey and the Legacy of Satguru 108 Baba Kishan Bhajan Sahib

How can words capture Sain Baba’s holiness? No pen can describe the depths of his sanctity. His daily programs for Satsang brought people from far and wide, eager to hear the divine teachings. Sain Baba also ventured beyond the city, reaching out to distant places to spread the sacred word of God.

During that era, Sohbraj, a wealthy man residing in Shikarpur, owned a house in Kolpur as well. Sain Baba would visit Sohbraj’s place during the summer months, organizing large gatherings of Satsang. These gatherings attracted massive crowds eager to listen to Baba’s enlightening words and experience his spiritual presence.

Sain Baba’s Visit to Kolpur

During the summer in Shikarpur, Sain Baba visited Kolpur, a town known for its dry climate, which helped his back blemishes (caused by heat pimples) begin to heal. However, fate took a difficult turn. Sain Baba suddenly fell gravely ill with a high fever. In those days, communication was limited, as telephones were uncommon in Shikarpur.

Devotees Honored with the Title “Bhajan”

In Samadha Ashram, among the many devotees of Baba Kishan Bhajan, only two were honored with the title “Bhajan”:

1. Baba Gobind Bhajan Sahib: A meditative soul who preferred solitude and remained mostly at Samadha Ashram.
2. Baba Vishan Bhajan Sahib: Given the responsibility of visiting Kolpur to meet SatGuru 108 Baba Kishan Bhajan Sahib.

Divine Message from Baba Roop Bhajan Sahib’s Room

During a routine Satsang, a voice suddenly emanated from the “Peenghe waro” room of Baba Roop Bhajan Sahib, declaring:

“Send Baba Vishan Bhajan Sahib immediately to Kolpur, as Sain Baba is not feeling well.”

Meeting SatGuru 108 Baba Kishan Bhajan Sahib

When Baba Vishan Bhajan met SatGuru 108 Baba Kishan Bhajan Sahib, SatGuru Sahib, a beacon of wisdom, spoke profound words:

“This body is mortal. It will perish one day. In this world, many saints are born to fulfill their duties, but no saint remains here forever. Once their mission is complete, they must leave this mortal world.”

Satguru Sahib then honored Baba Vishan Bhajan with five paisas and a coconut, instructing him to take these items to Baba Gobind Bhajan Sahib, stating:

“He is my soul and successor. There is no difference between me and Baba Gobind Bhajan.”

Satguru Sahib then retired to his room. Sadly, his health continued to deteriorate, and in 1929, he attained moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).

A Time of Panic and Strength

When the news of Sain Baba’s passing spread, the devotees began to panic, asking:

“Who will take care of us now since Sain Baba is no more?”

Amidst the confusion, Baba Vishan Bhajan Sain urged patience and courage, saying:

“This is a time to endure and not to create havoc.”

The preparations were made for Sain Baba’s final journey to Shikarpur, where arrangements had already been made by Samadha Ashram.

The Grand Funeral and Final Rituals

Prominent saints, elders, and religious figures gathered to pay their respects during Sain Baba’s funeral. Attending the rituals were notable personalities such as:

• Baba Jairam Das Udasi
• Baba Khat Wara Sain
• Swami Dayanand Sahib
• Shankar Bharti Wara
• Baba Gokuldas Airy Wara
• Sain Banwari Sahib
• Other saints and holy figures came together to honor Sain Baba’s memory.

Baba Vishan Bhajan and Baba Gobind Bhajan jointly performed the last rites, known as the “last agni”. During this moment, Baba Gobind Bhajan Sain began to cry like a child, a symbol of vulnerability and love. The saints and elders comforted him, urging him to remain strong, endure, and carry the sacred duty forward.

Ascending Leadership – SatGuru Baba Gobind Bhajan Sahib

After the completion of Sain Baba’s final rites, Baba Gobind Bhajan Sahib was honored as the 5th Gaddi Nasheen of Pooj Udaseen Samadha Ashram. A Path Sahib ceremony was held at the Ashram for twelve days, culminating in Baba Gobind Sain’s nomination to take the Gadi Nasheen leadership role.

The Miraculous Appearance of the Snake

During this period, Baba Santok Das Udasi, mourning Baba Kishan Bhajan Sahib, expressed his wish that Baba Sain could join the celebration and partake in the food with everyone. At this poignant moment, a snake appeared, weaving its body in a dance-like manner, astonishing everyone. It didn’t bite anyone and only remained until all the saints left the gathering.

Swami Dayanand interpreted this event:

“Today, Baba Kishan Bhajan Sain has joined us in our celebration in this form.”

“Jagat dhitho jagdish main, jagdish dhitho jag manhiye
Galah chwan ji naa ahye, chawan kihye zabaaan saan?” – Saami

“Akhoon khol tamasha dhekain, sahib surat sari hai,
Hadin hodian ohehye dilbar, cho taraf chodhari hai.” – Sachal Sarmat

These verses remind us of the omnipresence of the divine, the impermanence of life, and the importance of living a righteous, honest life.

Final Lessons

• Impermanence of Life: The teachings of SatGuru 108 Baba Kishan Bhajan remind us that life is temporary and we should live meaningfully.
• Righteous Leadership: The succession from Baba Kishan Bhajan to Baba Gobind Bhajan Sahib symbolizes the continuity of spiritual leadership and duty.
• Inner Light and Unity: The miraculous snake event and the poetic wisdom emphasize that the divine is present in everything, everywhere, a message of unity and universal consciousness.

This legacy continues to inspire the devotees to follow righteous paths, embrace inner wisdom, and strive for spiritual enlightenment and community service.