THE THIRTEEN MIRACLES OF BALA DURING THE

NINE AUSPICIOUS DAYS OF NAVARATHRI, 2008.

SRI BALA CHARANAM

A NAVARATHRI WITH BALA

SEPTEMBER 30TH---- OCTOBER 9TH, 2008.

November 22nd, 2008.

I resumed my spiritual journal today after having

concluded it rather finally, or so I thought, over a month
ago. At that time, I considered my final destination to
be Sri Bala at Bala Peetam in Nemili. A series of
spectacular events in my life had brought me fully onto
the path of Sri Bala Tripurasundari and Nemili is where I
found her firmly ensconced, seated happily amidst her
loving family. There was really nothing more to write
about!

So, why should I resume this diary once more?

I received a few requests from a couple of interested
readers who had come across my website and read
some of my experiences. They asked me to not stop
writing about the many inspiring incidents that continued
to occur on this never ending spiritual journey. However,
this was not really a good enough reason. I had to get
the “official” sanction from Bala herself. How was this
going to be possible?

Way back, in the early years, when my spiritual progress

was in its infancy, I used to get visions and persistent
dreams with marvellous deities or Gurus asking me or
commanding me to execute paintings. I no longer get
these dreams; neither do I sit in meditation for long
periods of time with my eyes closed. No longer too, do I
recite a long litany of Sanskrit verses and prayers to the
Holy Mother.

These days, my prayers consist of listening to Bala‟s

songs at whatever time of day I get the urge to do so.
While my first thought on rising every day is about Bala
and continues at a deeper level to stay focused on her
throughout the day, it‟s as if I don‟t “have” to allocate any
special time for her during the day.

This change in my routine has happened so gradually

over the past year that even I was caught unawares!
The new habit seemed but a “natural” extension of my
permanent state of mind.
I think of Bala every moment, in the day and all daily
activities are indeed dedicated to her whether this might
be cutting vegetables in the kitchen or cleaning the
bathroom! I find myself totally immersed in this “Bala”
thought and my external activities are carried on
automatically while I merely witness them, while
somehow being mixed up with Bala at the same time!
So, why did I feel I needed a nod of consent from Bala
today before I started resuming my journal?
I don‟t really know the answer to this; perhaps because I
wasn‟t too confident about proceeding ahead.

So, I sat in meditation for half an hour thinking of Bala,

seeing her in my mind‟s eye as a beautiful maiden
adorned with jewels and seated on a swing. I could see
her laughing at me as I pleaded her to give me a signal.
“ Please show me you are here in this room with me.
Maybe you can dance in front of me, jingle those lovely
anklets you are wearing?”
I strained my ears. Nothing, not a sound could I discern.
There was no one at home and I heard nothing except
the muffled sound of traffic outside.

Try as hard as I could, I did not get even the slightest

reply from Bala.
Rather reluctantly, I sat at my computer . After what
seemed an eternity, I started typing the first few words.
“A Navarathri….”
“ O.K. good, you started writing” I could hear Bala‟s
voice very clearly now.
“ Please give the same title in English that Baba.G has
used in Tamil while narrating his experiences with me
during Navarathri”.
I am still trying to figure this out even while my hands
are speeding over the keyboard.
Are these voices simply my own thoughts, i.e. my own
mind trying to justify some action I want to do anyway?

I‟ve been on this path before. A small voice keeps telling

me. “ Move on, Go ahead. Stop questioning Bala, Don‟t
try and analyse Her or put her on the spot by asking her
to give you permission. Do what comes naturally to you”!

When I heard this last word “natural”, I instantly

remembered my most recent conversation with Sri
Baba.G a few days ago. He told me that he was better
at composing songs than writing articles or essays. “
Amma”, he said “ When I write a song, it comes so
easily to me in the same manner that one opens a
window and lets in the cool breeze from outside. The
breeze doesn‟t find it difficult to fill up the space inside
the room. I am just like that. In my natural state, I
compose songs because I can perceive Bala sitting in
my thoughts”.

Once again a certain diffidence bothered me. Of course,

I thought, Baba.G is an exalted soul.
He lives at the Peetam, is probably a Siddha Purusha
like the rest of them and how can I , an insignificant,
small person compare to an intellectual giant like
Baba.G? Moroever, he is Bala‟s most favored child!

Well, to be honest, I don‟t know what the answer to this

question is going to be. One thing for sure, I do realize
fully that Bala is guiding me away from experiencing any
paranormal episodes or events. Her message is very
clear “ Stop analyzing me. Stop questioning me. I am
with you all the time. Take confidence in that. Don‟t
harbor any doubts”.

As I write the above sentence, I‟m reminded of the

statement that Baba.G has written in his last book, titled
„Sri Bala Charitham”. He says he possesses no tantric or
mystical powers. He is permanently in a state of
communion with Bala .
It‟s as if my doubts are being cleared automatically even
before I voice them!

I have a feeling that the work I have commenced today

is going to be totally different in style compared to the
writings contained in my Spiritual Diary thus far. There, I
was mainly narrating certain wonderful events that Bala
caused to happen in my life over the past few years.

Today, Sri Bala, that adorable Child Goddess, that

mischievous, lovable deity who loves to play games with
her devotees, is actually going to tell me each day what I
should write about.
She tells me to now give this following title:
“The Thirteen miracles Of Bala during the Nine
Auspicious Days of Navarathri, 2008”.
THE THIRTEEN MIRACLES OF BALA DURING THE
NINE AUSPICIOUS DAYS OF NAVARATHRI, 2008.

September 22nd, 2008.

THE FIRST MIRACLE.

I found myself at Nemili, Sri Bala Peetam about 5 p.m. in

the early afternoon today. The very fact I was in Chennai
is indeed the very first miracle and the Divine play of Sri
Bala.

A few days earlier, I was in London having just returned

from staying for over two months with my daughter in
New York. I had originally intended to be in Chennai
during the festival of Navarathri ( Sept 30th to October
9th). However, a series of personal setbacks led me to
cancel my original flight booking departing from London
on September 20th bound for Chennai.
Although, I was a bit disappointed, there was nothing
much I could do. There was yet another compelling
reason for me to stay behind in London. While the
period of personal turmoil was going on, I decided to let
Bala be the final arbiter who would make the decision
whether or not I should come to India. On Saturday,
September 13th, I spent a long time immersed in
listening to Bala‟s songs. After the Parayanam was over,
I tossed two small chits of tightly curled up paper in front
of Bala‟s image in my Puja closet. On one of them I had
written “Go” and on another “Don‟t Go”.

Fervently hoping that Bala would choose the best

course of action for me, I picked one of the tightly rolled
balls of paper , with my eyes closed and focused on
Bala. I had picked the note that asked me to “ Go” to
India.
Without further ado and feeling extremely relieved that
Bala had indeed decided this matter for me, I busied
myself over that weekend with some essential shopping
in preparation of the journey.

However, on Monday, September 15th, my plans were

to take a complete U turn!
Apart from the great financial crisis that hit Wall Street
that week, my personal woes were magnified and I
didn‟t know what to do.

I called Sri Ezhilmani on that Monday and hurriedly filled

him in on the circumstances I faced at that moment. I
also told him about the “decision” Bala had given me
earlier that weekend. Sri Ezhilmani listened to
everything calmly and then said in almost an apologetic
tone “ Amma”, he said “ It‟s not really our custom at this
Peetam to toss a couple of chits in front of Bala and then
pick up one as if to signify that She has given approval
for a course of action. Bala does Not like to be placed in
a Spot or Tight corner! Stay back in London, or indeed if
you think it‟s necessary, return back to New York to be
with your daughter during her difficult times”. And, he
said this quite firmly” Do your duty towards your family.
Do not return to Chennai. I know you might be
disappointed not to be with all of us during Navarathri.
However, I‟m sure wherever you are you will be able to
see what‟s going on here. Bala will see to that”.

That was it. This was the Peetathipadhi‟s “uthiravu”, or

command and I should abide by it.
So, reluctantly, I decided not to return home just then.
However, something prevented me from completely
cancelling my confirmed reservation for September 20th.
I merely told the travel agent I would reconfirm this
booking on Friday, 19th, 24 hours before flight departure
on the 20th.
Yet, on Friday, 19th September, while I was doing
my Bala Parayanam in the morning, I got the distinct
impulse to just go to Chennai after all. It was as if Bala
herself was slowly nudging me to take this decision.

I thought I was really losing my mind slowly, or at least

my mind was not mine any longer. Bala seemed to be
calling all the shots.

Without hesitating further, I reconfirmed my reservation,

checked in for the flight and left the very next day
carrying absolutely no luggage. The only items I brought
in with myself was my handbag, passport ,my precious
Bala Parayanam book containing all her songs and
Hymns and two CDS. The first CD contained two photos
of my most recent paintings of Bala that I had finished
while in New York . These were two black ink drawings
of Bala; one in a seated pose and another one as a
young enchanting girl standing on a lotus. Both
drawings had been completed in a day and in an
inspired state! The second CD contained all my writings
in the Spiritual Diary. I felt I had concluded my narrative
and it was my intention to place this work at Sri Bala‟s
feet and dedicate it to Sri Ezhilmani.
On the long flight to Chennai, I was reading Bala
Andhadhi over and over again. A part of me was
apprehensive at the reception I might receive at the
Peetam because I had disobeyed Sri Ezhilmani!

I arrived in Chennai on Sunday, September 21st and the

first phone call I made was to Sri Baba.G. Rather
hesitantly, I informed him I‟d arrived and requested him
to convey this news to his father. I requested Baby
Amma if I could come to see the family at the Peetam
the very next day. She gave her consent readily and told
me not to worry about her husband‟s reactions to my
presence!

Thus it came to pass, I was at the Peetam having a

darshan of Sri Bala on Monday, September 22nd, 2008.
Yes, the date is significant because it was the 22nd
and four is Bala‟s number!
I sat in front of Bala and closed my eyes, mentally
thanking her for inviting me to her Peetam, after all.
I had taken along with me two copies of the enlarged
photos of my recent art work and Sri Ezhilmani Mama
loved the simple, black ink drawing of little Bala standing
in a huge lotus!
It struck me again what an extremely humble and simple
person he truly is! Little things give him so much
pleasure like that photo did. Anything that glorified Bala
made him smile happily like a small child.

No, he was not stern with me at all. He merely said “

Bala was just playing a game with you. She wanted you
to come to see her during Navarathri, after all”.
While he was speaking, Baba.G entered the room. I
bowed respectfully to him and what he spoke about next
was yet another miraculous display of Bala‟s divine
“play”.
September 22nd, Bala says ( to me ,now) was an
extremely significant day for the Bala Peetam and I was
extremely lucky to be there on that day. She says this
was because she could use me to write about it later! ( I
did always say she was a crafty planner!).

I carry on my narrative. Don‟t get confused if I keep

changing the tense while writing. When I use the present
tense, that‟s Bala speaking through me to the listener,
YOU!
For, it was on that day that Bala “dictated” the entire
contents of her own story to Sri Baba.G. “Sri Bala
Charitham” charts the history of Bala starting from her
role in the legend as the daughter of Goddess Lalith
ambika and the slayer of the demon Bandan and his
sons, her appearance in Nemili after prophesying she
would come floating in the river and transform this house
into a Temple, right up to the present time when Sri
Ezhilmani‟s eldest son Baba.G has blossomed as not
only a respected poet but also as a Guru. The
“Charitham” is a beautiful lyric comprised of 108 verses
and describes in a succinct manner all the miracles that
have come to pass in Nemili ever since the advent of Sri
Bala.

Baba.G told me he had been “commanded” to write this

work within a 24 hour period and that this directive had
come right after he had finished another treatise called “
Bala Mahatmyam”, a compilation of Bala‟s Holy sayings.
We spoke for a long time about the “Bala Charitham”
that day and Baba.G showed me the notebook in which
he had recorded this. I took a look at his work. To my
amazement, not a single word or sentence had been
scored out or changed. It was just as if someone
“dictated” the entire contents of the work and Baba.G
was merely the scribe!

There were a couple of poignant moments in the work

where Bala has described her son Sri Ezhilmani and his
wife, Baby Amma. In particular, Baba.G told me Bala
had actually wept while describing the selfless acts
carried out by Sri Ezhilmani, taking on debts so he could
carry out the Navarathri festivities with all due pomp for
Bala , and his stoic nature when faced by calamities.
As for Baby Amma, Bala has described her as the
coming together of “ all the Goddesses of Wealth and
Prosperity”!
Baba.G‟s eyes were moist when he contemplated on
this high accolade given by Bala to his mother!

I came away that day from Nemili almost in a state of

bliss.
First, I could hardly believe the manner in which Bala
haD orchestrated events so I could come down to
Chennai. Secondly, she had made me visit the Peetam
on an extremely momentous day and third, She is
making me write about this even after making me feel
that my writings had come to a natural conclusion.

THE SECOND MIRACLE.

Saturday, September 27th, 2008.

The first week of my arrival in Chennai have been thus

far filled only with events relating to Sri Bala and the
Peetam.
On my first visit, Sri Baba.G. requested me to provide
him a few laminated photo frames of Sri Bala seated on
the lotus. This was a reproduction of the huge painting I
had donated to the Peetam in January, 2008.

I placed the order for 200 laminated photo frames in a

nearby photo center. At the same time, the thought
struck me that I could perhaps reproduce a few
complete sets of all the six paintings of Bala I had thus
far donated to the Peetam. I thought I could gift these
sets of six photo frames to close friends and devotees of
the Peetam. So, I placed an order for 30 sets of these
six paintings along with Baba.G‟S initial request.

On Saturday, 27thm the laminated photo frames were

ready. I picked them up from the shop around 3 p.m.
and decided almost instantaneously to visit the Peetam
to drop them off.
We reached the peetam within a couple of hours and as
I alighted from the car, Murali came to greet me and
help carry in the boxes from the car. I explained to him
that only 200 frames were meant for the Peetam and the
rest were for my personal use.

The boxes containing the frames were carried inside the

Peetam and placed at Bala‟s feet as is customarily
done. Sri Ezhilmani lighted the lamp and swirled it with
loving care and deep respect in front of Bala‟s tiny
image.
Without warning Bala spoke to me “ What do you take
me for? Do you think I can be fooled easily? You bring in
front of me only a few of these photo frames. Why have
you left the rest in the car. Bring in the whole lot in front
of me. I want them all!”
I was completely stunned. However, sitting there, right in
front of Bala, I didn‟t doubt this voice even for a single
minute. Immediately I called out to my driver and asked
him to bring in all the boxes from the car.

I took out a sample set of six frames and placed this at

Bala‟s feet. Sri Ezhilmani picked them up gently,
admired them greatly and put them down again.

I told him of Bala‟s lightening request. He just smiled

and carried on his normal routine of explaining all about
Bala‟s story to the next set of visitors who just then
happened to drop by.
Murali was standing at the GM2 counter and
volunteered his opinion. “ When you walked in today I
thought of suggesting to you to bring inside all the
boxes, so at least the ones you wanted to take back
could be blessed by Bala. See, now what has
happened! Bala is a sensitive child. You can‟t try and
trick her at all”.
So, true, I thought to myself.

As I prepared to depart that day, I informed Sri

Ezhilmani and his wife that it was my intention to attend
the ceremonies for Navarathri on both the first and
closing day since I wanted to visit some other temples in
Karnataka during the intervening period.

Sri Baba.G. who was listening to my conversation said

immediately “ You must come to the Peetam on all the
nine days”. Baby Amma seconded this and said “ You
know a couple of Sri Haran Aiya‟s disciples have come
in from Canada to attend all 9 days of the Navarathri
festivities at this Peetam. You should also stay at a hotel
in Kancheepuram like they are doing so you can visit
Bala every day during this auspicious period. Oh, by the
way, they say they know you very well”, she added.

I was perplexed since I certainly was not in touch with

any member of Sri Raja Rajeshwari Peetam. However, I
didn‟t make any comment.
Sri Ezhilmani gave me his blessings and wished me luck
on my temple tour.
I left after promising to come in early on the morning of
September 30th, the start of the Navarathri function.

As I departed that day, I had an uneasy feeling about

my forthcoming trip to Karnataka. Although I had spent
several days planning this trip and was really looking
forward to visiting some of the ancient temples in that
state like Dharmasthala, Kollur , Udupi etc, my mind
constantly went back to what both Baba.G and Baby
Amma had said about being with Bala during this time. I
also wondered why Sri Ezhilmani had remained tactfully
quiet.

THE THIRD MIRACLE

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30TH , 2008.

There is no doubt in my mind that I had been summoned

to be with Sri Bala at Nemili during Navarathri, 2008.
After all, this is precisely what I had wished for all the
time I‟d been away from Chennai. In fact, I prayed
incessantly to Bala to give me a chance to witness the
splendid Chandi Homam she herself conducts on the
9th day of Navarathri as she triumphantly slays the
demon Mahishasuran.

So, why had I planned a temple tour during navarathri?

I was under the delusion that it was sufficient to attend

the all important first day when the holy “pot” or “
Kalasam” is placed in position as well as the final day
culminating with the Chandi homam. The sacred pot
dressed to resemble Sri Bala is supposed to assume all
the sacred powers of the main deity and is worshipped
as Bala herself for all nine days of the Navarathri right
until the Chandi Homama and the slaying of the evil
Demon.

During the period September 27th and the 30th, I tried

once more to see if my travel plans to Karnataka would
fall into place. However, there were reports of heavy
rains in the area and due to several considerations such
as the hilly terrain, the time involved in traversing roads
in inclement weather, I decided to drop this plan
completely.

Somehow, I felt a lot lighter once I had made this

decision. I just wanted to be at Nemili and with Bala
during Navarathri.
During this period, I dwelled on another incident that had
occurred just a few days before my second visit to
Nemili.

I had been contemplating about the real or true nature of

Baba.G. for quite some time now. I couldn‟t really
consider him as a Guru in the sense of the normal term.
While he did write a lot of songs that helped people to
get rid of their personality flaws and lead a good,
dharmic life style, in my opinion, Baba.G. did not really
present himself as the typical role model for a holy Guru,
or at least the ”Guru” I had in my mind.

It was while I had been immersed in this dilemma that I

had an opportunity to chat with him over the phone.
Unusually for him, Baba.G seemed lucid and relaxed
one night before the Navarathri festivities commenced.
He had just finished writing “ Sri Bala Charitham” and
wished to discuss some of the extraordinary events that
happened while composing this masterpiece dictated by
none other than Bala herself!

As if to provide an answer to my unasked question,

Baba.G. went on that night to say something about his
real nature that Bala revealed to him recently. This
information not only took my breath away but also made
me one of a very few set of people to whom he had
directly spoken about this astonishing revelation.

Shortly after Baba.G had finished writing “ Sri Bala

Charitham” as ordained by Bala, he had requested Bala
to reveal his “true self”. As an answer Bala placed a
mirror in front of him so he could look at his own
reflection! What Baba.G. saw instead of his reflection
was a body without a form and a succession of faces
passing by with great speed like graphics on a computer
screen. He could sense that he was experiencing the
feelings of various personalities, whose body forms he
had perhaps inhabited sometime in the past. In effect,
he was and continues to be part of that great Cosmos,
the origin of all creation. In the end he saw Bala‟s face
and found he had merged into her completely.
I felt especially privileged to hear this information first
hand before it was published in a book.

I stopped at this point in my narration because I keep

thinking of the title Bala has given me “ The Thirteen
Miracles that happened during the Nine Auspicious days
of Navarathri”.
I can‟t think of any interesting event that occurred on the
first day, September 3oth.
Today ( November 23rd, 2008), I called Sri Ezhilmani at
the Peetam. I told him of the “uthiravu” Bala had given
me yesterday and the dramatic manner in which she
asked me to resume my journal.
It had bothered me yesterday even as I wrote about the
first two miracles, that perhaps some readers might think
I‟m copying Baba.G‟s style of writing. He too, has written
about his experiences with Bala during the Navarathri of
2002. In fact, it was after this book was published that
his stature as a favorite son of Bala increased and
slowly people came to accept him as a Guru.
Maybe I am unconsciously copying his mode of writing, I
thought to myself last night. In any case, I placed a call
to Sri Ezhilmani this morning at Bala‟s request, of
course.

I quickly filled him in on the details and told him “ Mama,

I can‟t think of what miracles to write about each day.
Yet, Bala has asked me to write about my experiences
during Navarathri”.
He simply smiled “ Amma, the words will come to you
like a slow gushing stream. If Bala wants you to write,
she will provide you with words. You just start writing
about your divine experiences. I know you are doing
some translation work for Baba.G. However, its personal
experiences that the public always is interested in
reading. You simply start writing again”.
That was it.
So, I‟m back at the computer and shall describe the
events of September 30th, during my third visit to Nemili.

We arrived quite early at the Peetam , by 6.30 a.m. In

fact, even Sri Ezhilmani was just taking his morning
coffee and went to bathe and get dressed after we
arrived.

While I was sitting at the Peetam waiting for the opening

ceremonies to commence, I read the holy book
containing “ Sri Bala‟s Charitham”. I had just finished my
parayanam when the priests started the holy rituals. A
pot had been decorated to resemble Sri Bala‟s face and
this was carefully lifted and placed on the very first step
of the Mandapam.

Usually, the first step of the sacred Mandapam at Sri

Bala Peetam is occupied by Sri RajaRajeshwari. On the
second step sits little Bala and below her is Ganapathi.
However, I was informed that this order changes during
Navarathri.
Bala, in the form of a “Kalasam” goes to the very first
step and her Mother‟s idol is placed alongside Sri Bala‟s
tiny image on the second step.

The Kalasam was placed with great care and fanfare on

the first step. A beautiful skirt billowed out from the base
of the Kalasam. The total effect was as if Sri Bala herself
was seated majestically right at the top of this
Mandapam, dressed in all her finery and a long black
braid tossed over her right shoulder.

The crowd started to gather at the Peetam slowly that

morning. Tired of sitting cross legged for a long time, I
moved towards the back where I could stand and stretch
my legs. Baby Amma was standing there talking to a
mother and a daughter. Upon seeing me, she cried out
joyously that these people were the guests from Canada
who had claimed to have heard of me. Puzzled, I went
over to the lady and after introductions were over,
learned that they had visited my website and read
several sections of my Spiritual Diary with great interest.
In fact, this lady was a disciple of Sri Haran Aiya and
had seen the painting of Bala I had donated to the Raja
Rajeshwari Peetam several years ago.
I chatted for a while
with this very spiritual lady who was quite keen to know
if I had updated my website. I mentioned I had carried
on with my writings and had narrated the many
marvellous incidents that had occurred during and after
my daughter‟s wedding.
I also told her I had put down all my writings onto a CD.
One, I had already given away to Sri Ezhilmani, but I
had one more copy here in Chennai.

This lady was quite keen to finish reading all about my

experiences and as they were staying at a hotel in
Kancheepuram that had no internet access, she asked
me to bring in my CD so she could read it when she had
time at the hotel.
I agreed readily and said I would bring it in the next day.
Although at that time, I did feel flattered that at least one
person seemed to be interested in reading my diary, I
had a feeling that Bala‟s plans for me were quite
different. As it turned out, although I did bring in the CD
containing my writings the next day and was about to
approach this lady, I got a lightning command from Bala
" Don't give this CD away to anyone". I obeyed the order
instantly and later, on the final day when she asked me
again for it, I explained Bala's directive. The lady
understood me completely!

The events that took place on September 30th at Sri

Bala Peetam, Nemili, probably followed the same
schedule as they normally do each and every single
year during Navarathri. However, this was my first
experience and I sat basking in that magical atmosphere
conjured up for her devotees by Bala.
Coming back to my narration. I can‟t remember any
miracle that happened at Nemili on that day.

However, writing about it today, something unusual did

happen.
I paused my writing for a bit in order to check my e mail.
I did this because I was hoping to retrieve a scanned
copy of the Navarathri proceedings at Sri Bala Peetam. I
remembered a hand book had been distributed and
thought if I consulted the schedule of events printed
there, this would jog my memory about the sequence of
events each day. After all, that‟s exactly what Bala
wants me to write about, I thought.

Well, I was proved to be wrong!!

I hunted through my in box hoping to retrieve a particular

e mail. Instead, while flipping through past messages,
one particular e mail caught my attention. It caught my
attention because it remained unopened!
This was an email from someone living in Nigeria who
had come across my website and connected with me
because of his devotion to Sai Baba, Sri Bala and Lord
Muruga! From the letter I could make out this person too
had experienced many supernatural visions and
episodes and was indeed fortunate because his mother
had been a great expert in the worship of Sri Vidya.

One small detail in the letter riveted me completely. It

was the date on which the letter had been sent. Why,
that was onOctober 25th, 2008 , Bala‟s Birthday.
Actually, three people, all of them complete strangers ,
living in far flung places in the world, had written to me
on Bala‟s birthday. I had read two of them. One person
seemed to me an embodiment of complete faith in Bala.
Her true devotion and desire to make a trip to Nemili
was an example of complete “Sharanagathi”, or
surrender. The second person came from a very
religious family and her husband was devoted to prayers
and meditation. After reading about my experiences at
Sri Bala Peetam, this lady too was simply yearning to
make a visit to Nemili.
However, this letter from the third contact was
something I‟d missed previously . The fact I found it just
a few moments ago, while searching for a miracle to
write about for the third visit, is indeed as Bala intended.

I wrote a letter to this person from Nigeria. Or rather, I

should say, Bala dictated it. My fingers flew over the
keyboard as the words tumbled forth. It was a message
from Bala to her devotee and I was just the intermediary!

I completed the letter and took a deep breath. Yes,

certainly these writings can no longer be called the
continuation of my Spiritual Diary!
I am merely writing in frequent bursts whatever thoughts
and messages Bala clearly intends for me to make
public.
“What if people who read it think I‟m suffering severe
delusions?”
At that moment the phone rang. It was my spiritual
contact, US1. I got the reassurance that gave me
strength to carry on. The very fact that even two or three
people in this whole world believe either in the higher
intelligent principle, or Sai, or Bala or Muruga, or my
writings, is completely irrelevant.
I am putting down at this moment what I believe to be
the truth.
You , as readers can interpret it in whichever way you
want depending on your own level of spiritual
evolvement!

FOURTH MIRACLE
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1ST, 2008.

Before starting to write each new chapter, Bala has

asked me to listen to one of her songs. I have been
listening to the songs from the album “Nemili Nagar
Aalum Naayakiye”. Appropriate indeed for this child who
rules the world as the Supreme Empress from her tiny
domain at Nemili!

I visited Sri Bala Peetam on the afternoon of October

1st. Every morning and evening special Bala
Parayanams were scheduled to be held at the Peetam.
Famous Musicians had been invited each day to provide
a short concert in front of Bala followed by Bala
Parayanam during which all of us sang together some of
the delightful songs composed by Sri Ezhilmani and Sri
Baba.G.

At the end of each morning and evening session there

was the grand “ Deeparadhanai” and recital of Bala
Kavacham. This routine was to continue every single
day. Since I was coming to Nemili each day from
Chennai, I chose to arrive either for the morning or the
evening session.
On October 1st, the second day of Navarathri and my
fourth visit to Nemili, I arrived around 5.30 p.m. The
evening prayers and parayanam concluded and I felt an
aura of total peace and calm enveloping the sacred
space inside Bala‟s little house!

I paused for a moment and beseeched Bala. “ What do

you want me to write now? What miracle took place on
the fourth day at your Peetam?”

The phone rang. I glanced at the clock. It was exactly 4

p.m. And, I am stuck while describing a miracle that
never actually took place on my fourth visit to Nemili.

I answered the phone. It was US1, whom I have come to

regard as the true embodiment of Sai. I have noticed
that this person has the uncanny ability to call me just as
I am seeking for answers or have difficulty in making
decisions.
Well, today was no exception. US1 started to discuss
certain extraordinary experiences that had come her
way over the past few days. I listened amazed and in
total awe at what was revealed. It soon became clear to
me that this person had indeed discovered the very
essence or the true reality of life.

So, what happens to us at the end of our lives? How

many of us have wondered about this or feared what
might happen to us after death?
Well, US1 did indeed undergo a near death experience
and states quite categorically that in the end we just
decompose into the very elements and gases that make
up the physical frame. So, what about the soul? Does it
really exist? Are we born again in the shape of another
person, with a different name? Do we merge into the
vast consciousness in the event that there are no re
births?
So many questions haunt us. Yet, as US1 puts it “ In the
end, we just become small molecules of nitrogen and
oxygen”.
“ I see what goes on inside the brains of people. What
determines either good or bad actions actually stem
from the activity of neurons”.
“ So, a genius is no more in control of the working
pattern of his neurons than a terrorist is in curbing his
evil actions. Both people commit actions as a result of ,
or as a consequence of the neurons and the way they
are programmed to act inside the brain”.
“Thinking in this manner, it does mean that neither a
terrorist nor a mathematical genius can either take credit
or be blamed for their actions. They have been pre
programmed to carry out certain activities”. US 1 paused
for breath.
That is true. I thought to myself. Just as I have been
programmed to carry out the task of writing this.

„What about the issue of morality. Doesn‟t a bad deed

beget bad Karma for a person and a good one earn
merit. I have been, and there‟s that word again
“programmed” to think that we should only commit good
actions lest I am born as a creature of the lower order, a
reptile or beast in my next life”.

Ah, but that‟s only if you accept the concept of after-life”

said US1 and went on to narrate an interesting
experience she had undergone some years ago with a
Nadi Astrologer. These are astrologers who claim to
foretell your past and future through reading palm leaves
based on just a thumb print and very minimal personal
details.

Apparently for each person born in this world, our

ancestors have prepared a manuscript that has detailed
extremely precisely the pattern our lives will take in this
life time. Written over five thousand years ago, these
palm leaves contain information regarding the names of
your parents in this life, your past deeds and actions and
give a complete record of what you can expect in the
future.
US1 proceeded with her story. An acquaintance had
given her the contact name of one such Nadi Astrologer
in India. However, since she was extremely skeptical
about this science of foretelling events, did not really
proceed further.

However, one day at work, while sitting in front of the

computer, the name of this astrologer started to flash on
the screen on its own volition along with the contact
phone number.
So, more out of curiosity, US1 did get in touch with this
Nadi Astrologer. Providing him just two little details, i.e.
the thumb print and date of birth, US1 was shocked to
hear this man giving her a complete and accurate
history of past events in her life. Certain predictions
were also made.
The most important point to be considered here, apart
from the verity of this science of astrology, is that
someone, a long, long, time ago knew you would be
born on this earth and had programmed you to carry out
certain tasks. Whether these actions are good or evil is
not really an option for you, because they have been pre
determined.

This made me think again. If all of us are not really

responsible for our actions, then why do people fight
wars. We should be more forgiving of our enemies
because they can‟t really help who they are!
Yes, looking at it in this light, we should all evolve in our
thinking to the state that we don‟t show anger or shower
blame on someone who has displeased or irritated us.
This kind of an attitude would make us more loving,
more forgiving and less likely to find fault with others.
But what about the many terrible deeds done by people,
murders, physical abuse, etc. Surely they can‟t get away
scot free. There would be no use for Courts of Justice or
prisons, then.
Well, the answer is that bad deeds do beget bad results
for the doer. So, in the end a criminal will get a dose of
his own bad actions.
US1 related another miraculous scene she had
witnessed at daybreak a few days ago while seated in a
car parking lot. As the sun slowly began its ascent, the
rays, golden and warm seemed to hit all objects within
her field of vision whether animate or inanimate.

However, the marvellous thing about this vision was,

according to US1, was the sheer geometry she
witnessed or the fluidity of the whole moment. The sun‟s
rays seemed to hit cars, trees, plants, shrubs in its path,
hitting and then bouncing off of them with perfect
straight lines, these lines crossing and crisscrossing with
each other forming angles and patterns, rather like giant
Chakras or Mandalas!

Mystical formulae that explained the scientific

composition of every object appeared out of thin air!
This whole process continued until the observer became
completely aware of the connectivity and links holding
this giant universe together in perfect harmony!
Half an hour had elapsed and I ended this amazing
conversation witnessing a beautiful sunset out of my
window at precisely 4.30 p.m. (New York time).
Thank you Bala for putting me in touch with such highly
evolved spiritual persons from whom I can derive
positive energies to carry on in my spiritual path!

THE FIFTH MIRACLE

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3RD, 2008.

I sat quietly for a few moments listening to Bala‟s song “

Chinna Kuzhandai, Chella Kuzhandai, Bala
Varugindraal” ( Oh little, Bala, my precious Bala, here
she comes”).

I asked her “ Why did you ask me to write about thirteen

miracles that happened during Navarathri and then go
off completely at a tangent and make me include the
paranormal experiences of someone whom I barely
know?

Her answer “ You wrote about a superior intelligent

being in the last chapter. Well, I am that. I am asking
you to do certain things that fit in my scheme of things.
You have no idea of the larger picture. You had great
doubts about the exact role of Baba.G. in your life. Well,
he did his best to explain this to you the other day. But,
you could only get a glimpse of what he was hinting at.
That‟s why I made your contact US1 call you today. You
can relate to her. She can express herself freely to you
in the style and manner you are used to, having lived
overseas for the past 30 years. My son Baba.G caters to
the needs of the families who come under his guidance
in Chennai. They understand and accept his words
without questions, without a single doubt. For you, I had
to bring in someone else, provide this person with a
vision of this whole universe so she could talk to you of
the higher things , ordinary people cannot understand”.

“ But Bala”, I asked, “ why could you not grant me that

experience. Reading about things in books or listening
to others narrate their experiences is only the second
best alternative to actually living that experience”
Bala replied “ I didn‟t give you that experience because I
want you to write about it instead. I have given you the
ability to draw using your hands. After your job was
done, you gave away all the paintings to me without a
question. I gave you the suggestion to create your
website, write your diary. You finished this task too and
dedicated all your written work to me at Navarathri. You
didn‟t question me then, too. Now, I am giving you this
opportunity to write MY words. Are you questioning Me
now?”

I kept quiet.

“ Thank You Bala. Please continue. I am just following

your orders”.
Bala resumed ,
„ Remember to write that on the fourth day of Navarathri,
Friday, October 3rd, my son Ezhilmani did give you a
title and a special gift”

Yes, it is certainly true that I was delighted and surprised

when Sri Ezhilmani made an announcement at the end
of the morning prayers on that special fourth day of
Navarathri. He said “ Bala has asked me to honor four
very special people at the Peetam and give them a gift”.
He named three other staunch Bala devotees and then
gestured for me to come up as well.
As I went to pay my respects to him and collect my gift,
a laminated photo frame of the various artistes who had
contributed their talents to the peetam, Sri Ezhilmani
said “ I have one more surprise in store for you. We are
giving you the title of “ Ovia Chemmal” ( Talented
painter) as per Bala‟s instructions.
I was thrilled to receive this award as it was my first , at
this very special Peetam ruled by Bala.
SIXTH MIRACLE
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4TH, 2008

I found myself at the Peetam quite early on Saturday

afternoon. As I was about to step inside the Peetam, I
noticed there were not too many people about on that
day. There were a few familiar faces, all of them Bala
devotees whom I keep seeing at the Peetam frequently.
As I made my way to the dais housing Bala, in that
precious Mandap, I could see Murali coming towards me
. After greeting me he said, “ A new visitor has just come
into the Peetam after reading your website. He was just
asking about you when you entered inside Bala
Peetam”.

Although I was quite used to the mischievous games of

Bala, this information stunned me. Talk about exact
Timing!!
In front of me stood a young man along with an elderly
lady, presumably his mother. The importance of that
precise moment and our meeting was not lost on this
young man as well. He was visibly overwhelmed that I
“materialized” out of thin air just as he had been making
enquiries about me and my paintings.

After paying our respects to Sri Ezhilmani, Baba.G AND

Sri Bala, we made our way to a quiet corner of the
Peetam. This man was apparently an avid reader of my
spiritual diary and felt he could understand some of the
extraordinary experiences I had undergone. He claimed
that my writings particularly about Sri Bala moved him
greatly . It was as if my words were “alive” or charged
with the “spirit” of Bala.

The young person went on to reveal his own personal

experiences. He said he did a lot of meditation,
particularly on the “third eye”, or Ajna Chakra and one
day, while in a trance like state he could feel his third
eye opening to reveal the face of an extremely beautiful
girl!
Somehow, standing there at Bala‟s own house and
listening to a young person‟s spiritual experiences,
made me feel totally contented and happy.

We chatted for a bit and after promising this lad I would

never stop writing my journal, I settled back to enjoy and
participate in that evening‟s prayers.

The Bala parayanam ended by 8 p.m. and I arose to

leave. Just then, Sri Baba.G walked into the room. He
did not really say anything. Yet, his eyes somehow
looked different. Although he looked at me, I felt his
eyes were glowing quite brightly and were focused on
some other invisible object in that hall. By now, the
devotees were slowly departing; some going upstairs to
the Food Hall to have a bite to eat before returning
home that night. I was trying to make a hasty exit
anticipating the 2 hour journey back to Chennai.
However, Baba.G just looked at me and said “ Come up
with me to my room”. Then, He looked at three other
people who had come with me in my car from Chennai
and asked them to come up to his quarters as well.
Without glancing back to see if we were indeed following
him, Baba.G strode off at a furious pace.

I hurried up the two flights of stairs and was the first to

get inside Baba.G‟s study room. It was here that he
composed most of his songs and speeches. I had been
here only once and my eyes sought out again that
enigmatic photo of Babaji that had so caught my
attention on the first visit.
Inside the room, it was cool as the air conditioning had
been switched on, a great relief from the stuffy and hot
hall downstairs. Baba.G. stood in the center of the room
and the four of us stood at a respectful distance in a
semi circle around him. I had the most surreal feeling
that day. It was as if I was not there in a physical form,
but merely looking on or witnessing a marvellous play
being staged by Baba.G, or was it Bala?

Baba.G. was saying “ I was sitting in this room writing up

the speech I am going to deliver on the last day of
Navarathri, or Saraswathi Puja, when Bala came into my
field of awareness and asked me to bring four people
from downstairs to hear it. She even asked me to keep
the air conditioner going , so the room would be cool
enough for the four visitors. I came down and saw the
four of you standing together near the counter. So, I
suppose you are three lucky people of the moment. Just
listen to what I‟m going to say”.

I was expecting to hear maybe a few lines of a new song

he had composed or perhaps a few words of advice for
the Bala Vidya Mandir. But not this dramatic speech!
And, this was just the beginning. Baba.G. began to talk.
Although his speech and articulation were crisp, there
was an underlying sense of haste to deliver the talk. I
could immediately sense the difference. This was not
Baba.G at all who was talking to us. Instead, this was
Bala, the small Child, yet the great creator and Empress
of this world who was gracing the four of us with her talk
and blessings through her favorite son.

Baba.G‟s face seemed more alive, more animated than I

have ever witnessed. The words came out in a rush,
very smoothly with not a single pause or hesitation. In
other words, it was the kind of speech made by a
consummately skilled person in the art of public
speaking.
The contents of the speech were even more amazing!

He said “ Bala tells me that the path she has chosen for
me is different. Unlike most Gurus, saints and sages of
the past who underwent austerities and penances in
order to gain boons from celestial beings and Deities,
my role is completely different. Many of these rishis and
sages prayed, did rituals and asked Gods for various
boons, most of them to satisfy their own selfish ends or
in order to accumulate more power for themselves.

I don‟t do that. Bala‟s songs are the most valuable

treasure she has given me; yet, I have given this away
as holy iniation to people who come and ask for it. My
goal is to make people more selfless, not more powerful.
I want people to pray for the welfare of others and not
just think of their own selfish interests.

You see, Bala is a child Goddess and has been in

existence from time immemorial. However, she has
never really understood or accepted by people around
her. The main reason is the difference between Bala
and other Gods or Celestial Beings.

All the other Gods bestow specific boons for specific

requests. There are rituals to be carried out, mystical
mantras to be chanted for a host of specific problems to
a host of deities. If you do all of this correctly, you may
get your prayers answered. A specific deity might grant
you a boon to either increase your powers, if that is your
wish as a sage or rishi, or satisfy your material requests.
Most of the prescribed remedies to gain a cure for
human misery or problems are based on prayers and
rituals written down in the Vedas and these have been
obeyed without question through the many thousands of
generations from the time of Creation itself. In other
words, none of this is “original” thought. Some one,
somewhere, at some point in time, in the very, very
distant past wrote a lot of prayers of grasped them as
they were heard in space. We still adhere to these
today.

My path is completely different. Bala gives me songs to

help many situations and events that we might face in
our lives. I share these songs with you. In fact, I have
given them away as an initiation to all of you with the
only caveat that you should pray for the welfare of
others first. When you place others‟ wants first and your
needs last, Bala will answer both of them quickly.
Mind you, the Sanskrit Slokams of the past mainly
comprised of thousands of verses or names extolling the
beauty, wisdom, valour of many deities. My songs are
different. They address specific issues like health,
education, marriage, good personality and conduct and
teach valuable lessons for those who want to reduce the
many flaws in their personalities and build a better life
for themselves.

Baba.G was talking rapidly. Most of this talk, I had heard

or read before. However, standing there that day and
witnessing Bala speaking through him was truly
inspiring.
He carried on “ Bala tells me that her way of worship is
completely different from all the other deities. She is a
child whom all other deities love. By gaining her love, all
the other Gods will be at your beck and call. Yet, the
way of winning over her affection is not terribly
easy. And, it will never happen by following all the tenets
and customary rites established by the Vedas or holy
Scriptures. Bala constitutes the very meaning of the
Vedas itself. She sets in motion actions pre designed
and destined to fit in with her own plans for the
universe. Bala‟s universe is a separate and an unique
one.

Baba.G stopped at this point and said .” I am creating all

these compositions and writing all these songs for Bala‟s
own satisfaction, for her to enjoy and share with the
denizens of her special world.
He concluded his speech. I could think of nothing else
but the fact I had witnessed something exceptional and
rare. Without further thought, I fell at the feet of this
exceptional man.
Or, rather, at the feet of Bala herself who gave us this
special darshan, on the sacred fourth day of Navarathri.
That was an unforgettable moment indeed.
SEVENTH MIRACLE
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5TH, 2008

Sri Bala Peetam was more crowded than usual since it

was Sunday. The little hall in front of the main Peetam
housing the Mandapam was packed tightly with
devotees. Following the customary Bala Parayanam,
there was a wonderful music concert. I noticed that Sri
Ezhilmani thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated each and
every single concert that took place during this
Navarathri Festival. His boundless enthusiasm seemed
to bring out the best in the musicians too. Each day was
a veritable feast with every artiste showing off his or her
skills.

There is a great deal of significance with the number

seven and Sri Ezhilmani . He was born on February 7th.
However, why is this fact significant for me? I‟ll explain
this later.
However, it all started in this manner. On the very first
day of the Navarathei Festival, Baba.G, released a new
book called “ Baba.G. in our lives”. This book consists
mainly of letters written by members of the Bala Vidya
Mandir reliving very warmly the many miracles wrought
in their lives after the advent f Sri Baba.G. As a
foreword, Baba.G. himself has written a letter to Bala
seeking her blessings and grace for all devotees.

I purchased a copy of this book on the very first day and

read a few pages from this every night during this
auspicious period.
When I read the many letters written by people coming
from all walks of life, regardless of their status, wealth,
education or occupation, it struck me again that I was
indeed extremely fortunate to have someone of the
stature of Baba.G. guiding me, conversing and sharing
his thoughts with me.
On the rare occasions where I did chat with him, I felt as
if our conversations were charged with an intangible
energy. Each time he read out the words of a new
composition or indeed sing or demonstrate it, I could
hardly believe how fortunate I was. This was truly history
being made and so very few of us in his circle were fully
aware of his power and grace!

I realize I have slowly moved away from describing the

events at the Peetam on Sunday, October 5th.

Bala says this narration is not very important. “

Navarathri has been celebrated and will continue to be
celebrated by my dear son for many, many more years
to come. I don‟t require you to elaborate it. I gave you
the title for this work and I will be the only person to tell
you what to include in here”.

Bala continued “ I‟m not asking you to list a schedule of

the music concerts that took place here during the nine
auspicious days. Neither am I asking you to describe the
people at the Peetam, the color of dress they might have
been wearing or the quality of the food served here. “
„What is important is that I have slowly guided you closer
and closer to me. However, don‟t suffer false delusions
or get proud thinking about this”.
You are merely a pawn in my giant chess board that
consists of this entire universe. If I tell you in advance
the exact role I expect you play, then life will no longer
hold any joy or adventure for you.
“ I have not and will not give you any psychic powers or
abilities. Don‟t think you can foretell other peoples‟
fortunes by using me. All you can do is to pass
messages to people who Fully believe in me impressing
upon them that I alone can sort out their problems. That
too, only after I summon them to my house.

“ You may write prayer letters for others‟ welfare. Pray

sincerely that those devotees who suffer from heartache
and anguish will somehow visit me. Once they come
here, my sons and I will take care of them”.
I replied “ My life is entirely at your disposal Bala. You
are my sole refuge and you do know this to be true.
Slowly, one by one you have removed all family
members fro me. The few relations I have pity me since
I seem to suffer delusions about you! I am accused ny
near and dear that I have become “too Bala focused” all
the time shunning other pastimes, even reading
newspapers, going to the cinema, watching T.V. and so
on”.

“You should enjoy life” replied Bala immediately. Go

watch an entertaining movie, savor good food, dress
well and look the best you can. I really don‟t advocate
anyone to fast on holy days or put their bodies through
torture to prove the sincerity of their religious
convictions.
Enjoy everything, but in small bites, like me” Bala said
with a smile!
I realize absolutely clearly that what I‟m writing about
now is the way Bala wants me to lead my life.
This is enough for the seventh Miracle.

THE EIGHTH MIRACLE

MONDAY, OCTOBER 6TH, 2008.

Another auspicious day and I found myself at the

Peetam around 10 a.m. The past few days had followed
a similar routine. I left my home in Chennai around 8 or
8.30 a.m. , collected a few Bala devotees who lived
nearby and arrived at Sri Bala Peetam by about 10 or
10.30 a.m, just as the Bala parayanam was about to
commence. After the customary music recital and the
final arathis, there would be a late lunch, around 2 p.m.
followed by the drive back to Chennai, arriving home by
5 or 5.30 p.m.

I was thoroughly enjoying this splendid opportunity Bala

had given me to visit her during this very sacred period.

While driving up to Nemili today, I got a call from the

uncle of a person in the U.S. who had become familiar
with my web site. Although this contact lives in New
Jersey, her uncle was a resident at Chennai. He had
read my web site, had experienced the grace of Bala
Tiruparasundari and wished to meet me. I arranged for
him to come to my house in the evening of the following
day.
Once again I was aware that Bala had set into motion a
certain sequence of events. Although I was acutely
aware of this, I wasn‟t curious to find out anymore. For
the present, my heart was filled with happiness just
making a daily visit to Nemili.

I pondered over some of the messages Baba.G. had

given us that eventful day in his room. In fact, the main
theme that day had been the insistence that Bala is
indeed a “rare” child deity who has actually descended
on this earth in this “Kali Yuga” in order to guide us.
Baba.G. said “ Generally, this age, or Kali Yuga, has
been variously described in the scriptures as an age of
darkness and despair, where morality is on the decline
and vices and evil traits have increased. Our ancient
sages and rishis have often said that Gods will no more
be accessible in this period. So, despite the fact that
many, many temples were built and deities consecrated
in them , over the past thousands of years, the power
and influence of these deities, even at some of the most
famous and popular temples are supposed to have been
considerably reduced in the current era.

Baba.G. maintains that in this era when all human kind

have been deserted even by Gods, only Bala, a child
deity has willingly and lovingly come down to earth to
protect us.

There are actually no temples for Bala anywhere in India

or elsewhere in the world apart from the house where
she resides at Nemili. In fact, in all the legends and
puranas that abound in our religion, scarce mention is
made of this deity, except for the brief reference to Bala
as the daughter of the Supreme Goddess Raja
Rajeshwari, who killed the thirty sons of Banda, a
demon. No further mention is made of Bala after this
event. It‟s as if she vanished into thin air after that brief
shining moment of valor!

It‟s interesting to observe that while great and powerful

deities such as Lord Ganapathi, Vishnu, Shiva, Skanda
or Parvathi, Durga or Kali were worshipped sincerely in
the ancient days with great fervour, no one considered
worshipping Bala, a small child and the favorite offspring
of Mother Raja Rajeshwari.

In general not much importance is given to young

children in homes where religious practices are severely
adhered to. “ There is no place for Children in the place
of worship”, is literally the dictum followed by many a
household.
However, as Baba.G. mentions, these practices have
been completely transformed at Si Bala Peetam.

Here, children are treated as precious assets. Small

childen are honoured and indeed, most rituals at the
Peetam end by having the arathis and lamps shown
respectfully and ceremoniously by her own children.
During the nine auspicious days of Navarathri, young
girls are treated as divine embodiments of the Goddess
and much respect is given to them, and this practice
continues as a general rule every single day. That is the
main reason why the “prasadam” or „Holy offerings” at
this temple are just what children love to eat, sweets,
chocolates and biscuits!
Certainly, the Bala Peetam has challenged many of the
rigid and conservative, old fashioned views on religion,
morality and spirituality. Here, the emphasis is not on
rituals but on sharing the feeling of Love and warmth
among all individuals regardless of their caste or faith.
The accent is not so much on doing rituals and prayers
out of self motivation and selfishness. Instead, people
are taught to pray for others‟ welfare and relegate their
own problems to the back of their minds.

THE NINTH MIRACLE

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7TH, 2008

The days followed each other quickly during the

Navarathri festival. Bala, the Empress of Nemili, the
enchanting child and the fearsome Durga, the slayer of
Mahishasura, seemed to hold court each day presiding
over the proceedings in her own inimitable style!

Devotees thronged in to see her; all of them had

problems in their lives that only she could solve. All of
them came in from long distances hoping to catch a
glimpse of this little child at the Peetam during
Navarathri.

It‟s not without reason that Sri Ezhilmani often says “ To

make a pilgrimage or even to pay a visit to a friend your
thought alone is sufficient to set things in motion.
However, at Nemili, the story is completely different.
Your thought of making a visit alone is not enough. You
certainly need Bala‟s command or invitation in order to
see her”.

Certainly, even the most staunchest of all devotees

cannot take Bala for granted.
I thought of my personal situation a week ago. After
riding a roller coaster of events, finally, Bala had asked
me to visit her during Navarathri even when her own son
had requested me to stay behind!

That is the Glory of Bala. Her grace is like a torrent

rushing down relentlessly not caring for the obstacles in
the way.
Similarly, although , at the time I didn‟t quite
comprehend Bala‟s intentions, it is becoming
increasingly clear that she manoeuvres situations and
events in the lives of her devotees. Life can be
compared to playing a chess game with her knowing full
well that the winner every time can only be Bala.

If I am writing these words, it‟s at her request.

I have completely changed my mode of writing and

instead of discussing or narrating the miracles that
happened during the nine days of Navarathri, I find
myself drawn to put down on paper certain thoughts that
appear in my mind just as I start to type.

Surely Bala is in command here. She has asked me to

continue and finish all the thirteen chapters without
pausing to re read or go over certain earlier chapters or
indeed correct them.
“You can do any editing that is required at the very end,
after you have finished. Not now. Don‟t look back” These
are her words and so far I have carried it out respectfully
despite the strong temptation, each day to read the most
recently finished paragraph or chapter.
Similarly, it is her wish “ Make sure you listen to one of
my songs before writing each chapter”.
In other words, this whole work is permeated and filled
by Bala.
Regardless of the contents, it is going prove an
interesting exercise to read it in full once I finish .

This evening, an elderly man and his wife came to visit

me at home. This was the relative of one of my website
contacts. What struck me about this man was his child
like innocence and complete sincerity of devotion
towards Bala. It turned out he had visited Nemili a long
time ago. However, the reason for visiting me was
because he had been fascinated by the narration of my
experiences in my spiritual diary.

Also, this elderly man had fashioned a tiny idol f Bala

and wanted “me” to bless it for him before he gave it
away to his nephew as a gift.

I was totally taken aback and immediately placed his art

work in my puja room, in front of the painting of Bala. I
told him to receive blessings directly from Sri Ezhilmani
at the Peetam. I reiterated I was just another of Bala‟s
devotees. I told him Sri Ezhilmani‟s oft quoted comment
“ If there is a leader at the Peetam, there is only one and
that person is Bala. No devotee can take it upon himself
or herself to act as an intermediary between Bala and
her devotees”.
Since the following day was Saraswathi Puja at the
Peetam, I suggested he could make a visit on this
auspicious day honouring the Goddess of all arts and
learning.
THE TENTH MIRACLE
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 8TH, 2008.

Today, we left rather early in the morning bound for

Nemili. The Saraswathi Puja was scheduled to be held
around 8.30 a.m. followed by a special speech from
Baba.G after which the new CD album called „Bala
Mahatmyam” was to be released.

Every single day during Navarathri, a special color code

had been devised by Sri Baba.G. and all members of
the Bala Vidya Mandir were expected to wear clothes
according to this pre assigned schedule.

On Saraswathi Puja, the color was white , to reflect the

purity and beauty of this Goddess who presides over all
knowledge, arts and creativity.

I arrived at the Peetam just before the commencement

of this puja. There were already quite a lot of family
members crowded into the tiny hall. After the Goddess
Saraswathi had been duly propitiated, Baba.G. began
his speech, or rather a rendition of the foreword to
his Bala Mahatmyam, a set of 49 verses containing
spiritual and moral codes of conduct for Sri Bala
devotees. These verses had been literally “dictated” to
Sri Baba.G. and are regarded and respected as divine
words of Sri Bala, or “Arul Vakku”.

I sat in the front row of this very crowded hall. There was
a terrific crush of people behind me and I felt a terrible
cramp in my legs from being seated cross legged on the
floor for such a long time. Although, it had been quite a
physical strain traveling back and forth from Chennai to
Nemili each day, having meals at very late hours and
having to sit without moving for hours and hours each
single day, I had not really experienced any side effects
so far.

The atmosphere at Nemili, every day was electrifying.

Just sitting there, listening to Bala‟s melodious songs
and being part of her vast, extended family made me
feel really honored.
However, on this particular day things were a bit
different. Sri Baba.G began his speech and started to
recite a few verses from Bala Mahatmyam. At the end of
every verse, we had to join the refrain “ Om Sakthi Om”,
extolling the great goddess, Durga.

ten minutes into the speech, I began to feel rather

uneasy. I waited for a few moments hoping this feeling
was a transient one, but it did not go away. I was feeling
extremely hot and nauseous. Since I was sitting in the
very front row, I did not wish to cause a disruption to the
proceedings. So, at an appropriate pause in the talks, I
arose and made a motion to go to the back of this
crowded hall. Treading carefully so as to not step over
people, I finally made it to the very back of the room and
stood with my back against a poster of Sri Bala.

The very last thing I heard were a chorus of chants “ Om

Sakthi Om” , and then I completely blacked out. I came
to my senses a few minutes later as cold water was
splashed on my face.
All of a sudden, I felt extremely exhausted and weak as
though I had undergone a great ordeal. I was still trying
to make some sense of this as members of Sri
Ezhilmani‟s family took me to the room off the hall way
that was a bit more private.

I remember falling on the floor here as my legs seemed

wobbly and feeble. After a few moments, I was asked to
go upstairs to Sri Baba.G‟s living quarters. This was
indeed a good suggestion as there was an air
conditioner here and the cool comfort of the room was
what I sorely needed.
I noted that Sri Baba.G‟s room, while it was a very small
one, exuded a strong positive aura. I stayed here for a
few moments, changed my dress since it seemed
soaked with perspiration and after a short while, feeling
a whole lot better, joined the remaining congregation in
the main hall.
I didn‟t realize then that this whole incident had been
manoeuvred by Sri Bala so I could have a few precious
moments in the room where Baba.G. spent most of his
time. I had spoken with Baba.G. previously in his “study”
or the room in which he wrote his compositions, but had
never ventured into his living quarters before.

After the day‟s prayers and songs concluded, I took

leave of the family. It had been my intention to stay at a
hotel in Kancheepuram that night so I could attend the
Chandi Homam scheduled to start at 1 a.m. in the
morning. Since Kancheepuram was just half an hour
away, this would be more convenient than going all the
way back into Chennai.
Just as I was leaving, I ran into Baba.G. All he said was
“ You are lucky Bala has sent you into my room for a few
moments. Her presence is unmistakably there at all
times. In fact even I am scared to sleep on my bed at
night. I can constantly hear the jingling bells in her tiny
anklets or the rustle of clothes as if someone is still
inside the room at various times throughout the night!”.

There is no doubt that Bala‟s presence is unmistakable

at this unique house thst is also a temple.
Downstairs in the hall that houses the main Puja room,
Bala‟s thoughts and directives have been heard and
sensed by many a devotee. For my part, many a
command has been given here that have turned out to
be true. There have been occasions where even small
suggestions have come true.

One example comes to mind. One Sunday, several

months ago, I was leaving the peetam after the
completion of Bala Parayanam and after I had taken the
prasadam or holy offerings. I saw Sri Ezhilmani finish his
lunch and retire to his room. The curtain in front of the
Peetam was drawn and most of the devotees had
already left. I lingered for a few moments as I was
waiting for another lady who had requested a ride back
to Chennai.

As I stood there on the main dais housing the tiny idol of

Bala, a message came into my mind like a fleeting
suggestion “ Don‟t go as yet. I want you to see my son
once more. Don‟t go just now”.
I was perplexed. I had seen the elderly Sri Ezhilmani
retire into his room that was to the left of the main dais. I
was reluctant to knock on the door and request another
audience. While I was lost in thought, I saw a family
member make her way towards this room. Bala seemed
to have provided me a solution. But, I should never have
doubted her directives. I didn‟t even have to ask this
lady to inform Sri Ezhilmani I was still waiting to get his
permission to leave.
In a moment, Sri Ezhilmani and his wife emerged out of
the room. With his ever present smile, Sri Ezhilmani said
“ Bala has asked me to see you. This is her Uthiravu
(command)”.

Every word uttered here at Bala Peetam is of

tremendous significance. Every assurance given to a
devotee by Sri Ezhilmani and Baba.G. is enormously
potent and has curative powers. These are true
words. Words spoken by Bala herself who senses
problems that her devotees have and seeks to answer
them or address them through her favorite sons.

I retired to Kancheepuram late that afternoon and took

rest at a hotel. The plan was to attend the mid night
Chandi Homam at Bala Peetam. This was the event I
had been looking forward to attend for a long time. Over
the last two years, I never did have the opportunity to
attend the Chandi Homam , or rather, Bala didn‟t think I
was ready to witness this sacred event.
At 11 p.m. we were back at Sri Bala Peetam that night.
While the village of Nemili appeared to be in deep
slumber, inside this little house of Bala, was a hub of
activity. There were two people sweeping and cleaning
the area where the sacrificial fire was to be lit. There
were a few more ladies of the house attending to the
details of the rituals. Several elderly men and priests
came out one after the other after having taken a bath
and wearing a fresh set of Dhothis and upper garments.

Around 1.30 p.m. the sacred Homam began. A long

rope was tied to the “hands” of Bala seated as the
Kalasam and the other end of this rope reached the
sacrificial fire-pit. Sri Ezhilmani explained this was to
signify that Bala herself was conducting this ritual , at
the end of which she kills, Mahishasura, the buffalo
demon.

Soon, the singing started. Interspersed with rituals that

were as old as the Vedas the songs composed by Bala‟s
favorite sons reverberated loud and clear. I could see
that Sri Ezhilmani was totally involved in the paryanam.
There was a sparkle in his eyes and his entire
demeanour that night was completely different. It was as
if Bala was immanent in him completely. He made some
childish jokes to his relatives. He was laughing and
completely animated while singing some of the popular
melodies. I looked on fascinated.

The entire proceedings that night were orchestrated by

none other than Bala working through Sri Ezhilmani. Of
this there was absolutely not a shred of doubt in my
mind. Here was a seventy year old man behaving with
the liveliness and impishness of a small child. He
seemed to be thoroughly enjoying each song, singing
them with great gusto, swaying from side to side
enjoying the lyrics and the mesmerizing beat.

I recalled the words of one of Bala‟s songs “ She is the

very embodiment of Music. She is also the enjoyer of
Music”. She is both the object (Music), the creator of it (
the lyrics) as well as the person who is experiencing the
bliss from hearing it!

Well, that magical night, all three, the creator, the

experiencer and the object created were merged in the
form of Bala, inside Sri Ezhilmani.

I remembered reading in one of the books written by Sri

Ezhilmani that Bala certainly is present at the Peetam in
the form of some person who is attending it.

There was a huge crush of people in that hall that day.

However, I don‟t think I would have to search further
than Sri Ezhilmani himself in order to discover where
Bala was hiding that night.
The Chandi Homam finished around 3 a.m. that day and
the members of the family circled the holy fire- pit or
“Homa Kundam” three times. After this, friends and
other devotees were invited to walk around this very
sacred homam Kundam. It is said that at this moment
whatever you wish for will surely be granted by Bala.

When my turn came, I got up and slowly went around

this sacred spot three times. My mind was an absolute
blank. I found myself mentally repeating the mantra “
Bala, Bala”, as I circled the Homam Kundam. “ Please
stay with me at all times, Bala. Let me never lose sight
of you”. This was my fervent prayer.
THE ELEVENTH MIRACLE
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12TH, 2008.

After the completion of the Navarathri celebrations at Sri

Bala Peetam signaled by the ending of the Chandi
Homam, I returned to Chennai early in the morning of
Friday, October 10th. The innumerable visits to Nemili
had given me a deep sense of satisfaction . I had
thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity Bala had given me
this particular year during such an auspicious period!
I informed Sri Ezhilmani when I took leave of him on the
morning of October 10th that I would perhaps come in
just once more to Nemili to take his leave before
departing to London. I told him I was leaving on
Wednesday, October 15th and would stop by the
Peetam on Monday, the 13th.

I didn‟t realize , of course, that Bala had certain other

plans in mind.

On Saturday October 11th, I was taking a rest after

lunch when I received mental suggestions to visit a Kali
temple that evening. On my previous trip, I had visited a
temple in the outskirts of Chennai dedicated to the
Goddess Sri Chakra Kali. This is a temple built by a
great devotee of the Goddess whom I had visited on a
couple of occasions. He narrated some miraculous
experiences in his life and is totally committed to the
worship of this fearsome Goddess.

Without pausing to question this “little voice” in my mind,

I set off around 4 p.m to Rathnamangalam a little hamlet
in the suburbs of Chennai where the Kali temple is
located.
When I arrived at this temple around 6 p.m. there was
hardly anyone in sight. The idol of Sri Chakra Kali or
Bhavadhaarini is an extremely beautiful one and exudes
a sense of total tranquillity. I sat down directly in front of
this great Mother and immediately felt She was “alive”,
looking tenderly at me!

In front of me was the main founder of the temple or

“Kali Mama” as I called him. He was seated with his
back towards me reciting what sounded like an
Ashtothram or litany of sacred names while inside the
inner sanctum, his wife was placing a flower at Mother
Kali‟s feet with each holy name that was recited.

I closed my eyes and concentrated on Kali, while

listening at the same time to “Bala Andhadi” on my I
pod. I beseeched this great Mother to shower her
blessings on me and remove the many obstacles in my
path.

I must have sat in total contemplation for about half an

hour; it seemed as just a few moments. Finally, the
chanting of the sacred verses stopped both on my I pod
and by the elderly priest. I opened my eyes just in time
to witness the main arathi or showing of lighted lamps to
the Goddess. Kali Mama was doing this routine slowly
and with great involvement and care. Kali‟s eyes glowed
fiercely in the darkness of the inner sanctum.

I prayed to her from the bottom of my heart. Please give

me a sign you have heard my request, I requested her.
What happened next was totally amazing. The skies
darkened almost on cue, a loud rumble of thunder split
the horizon and within seconds there was a sharp
downpour of rain. Kali Mama seemed taken aback as
well. Without turning around, he simply muttered “Looks
like someone‟s prayers have been answered. This is a
good signal from the Goddess”.

What was especially strange about this whole incident

was that it had been hot and sunny the whole afternoon
without a trace of rain bearing clouds in the sky!

I paid my respects to this fierce devotee of Kali and left

the temple completely at peace with myself. I recalled
Sri Ezhilmani‟s words “ If you pray to Bala, all other
Gods too, will come instantly to help you because they
love the little child so much”!. This was certainly proved
to be true!

And so it came to pass that on Sunday, October 12th,

Bala summoned me once more to see her although I
had not really intended to visit her until the following day.
It so happened that a couple of Bala devotees wished to
make the trip to Nemili that day and I thought I could
take them with me in the car. After all, I thought to
myself, I‟m sure Sri Ezhilmani will not mind if I come one
day earlier to say good bye to him!

So, here I was at Nemili, once more around 5.30 p.m. on

that Sunday.

As I walked inside the Peetam, I noticed there was a

small crowd of people seated on the main dais waiting
expectantly for Sri Ezhilmani, the Peetathipadhi , to walk
in.

I sat at the back of the hall, leaning against one of the

pillars. I noticed Murali coming out of Sri Ezhilmani‟s
room. He came straight to me and said “ There are
some people here you say they know you very well”. I
was totally surprised because I had not recognized
anyone in the crowd. In any case I followed Murali as he
led me directly to a couple seated right in front of Bala‟s
Peetam. “ These people have come in from New Jersey,
U.S.A” said Murali. When the introductions were made, I
realized immediately that I had spoken to the young lady
while I was in New York. At that time she had mentioned
that both she and her husband were planning to visit
India during Navarathri and also informed me that they
had read my website with great interest.

, to come across them that particular day, that too on a

day I had not really planned to visit Nemili, came indeed
as a great surprise and I didn‟t think it was a mere
coincidence.
Bala wanted to play a small game and had made both of
us meet in front of her holy presence!
As I took leave of Sri Ezhilmani and his family that day
he merely remarked “ You said you would come in
tomorrow. It is a bit crowded at the Peetam today, so
please excuse me if I don‟t have much time to talk to
you”.

I thought for a moment and then said “ Mama, can I stop

by again tomorrow evening to see you and take leave of
you properly before departing to London?”.

He consented and I left that night , once again

completely amazed by the miraculous events planned
and carried out by Bala.

It was as if she said “ Don‟t think you can make any firm
plans without my consent. Everything that is going to
happen in your life, I already know and have consented
to it happening. Everything I do is only for your good.
Remember this especially when outcomes you hope for
aren‟t terribly favorable to you”.

Thus ended my eleventh trip to Nemili in October, 2008.

THE TWELFTH MIRACLE

MONDAY, OCTOBER 13TH, 2008.

This was, or so I thought at the time, my final visit to

Nemili before my departure to London on October 15th. I
arrived in the early afternoon at Sri Bala Peetam and to
my great relief, there was no other devotees present at
that time.

For the first time since I have known them, I found the
family of Sri Ezhilmani in a completely relaxed and jovial
mood. For almost two hours we chatted together, Sri
Ezhilmani Mama, Baby Amma, Sri Baba.G, Mohan ,
Murali and myself. Until now, there had been a slightly
formal air in their manner towards me. Today, I felt
perhaps drawn a bit closer to them, or is it closer to the
circle that Bala has drawn around herself?
I was sure that this visit was no mere coincidence either.
Here was Bala making sure I came in on several
occasions to see her and her family in many moods,
many angles, expressing many of their concerns, talking
about various matters pertaining to the Peetam, about
people close to Bala, about the behaviour of some
devotees, etc. Here was a family whose main leader
was Bala herself, followed by her favorite son Sri
Ezhilmani. The respect given him by his wife, sons,
daughters in law, family relations, and grand children, is
truly amazing to behold. It‟s a respect not tinged with
fear or compulsion but a respect given with much love
and affection.

For, Sri Ezhilmani is the principal connection that all his

family has and will have with Bala.
Although Baby Amma claims Bala “lives” within her and
she appears in her dreams almost daily passing on
instructions, advice and prophesies; although Sri
Baba.G. with his “magic” pen and ability to write has
charmed the circle of Bala devotees with many lilting
melodies, songs and thought provoking divine words; it
is still Sri Ezhilmani, who will always remain as the one
and only person who loves Bala truly and whose love
Bala returns in full measure.

This gentle man runs the Peetam like clockwork paying

attention to the slightest detail, all motivated from the
boundless love he has for his unborn daughter Bala. A
true inspiration for all seekers of truth!

I left rather late that evening after saying my final

farewell to Sri Ezhilmani and his loving family.
I promised I would return in the new year, maybe in time
to celebrate Sri Ezhilmani‟s 71st birthday.

As I was leaving, Sri Baba.G gave me a book and a

photograph of Sri Bala. This was the book titled “
Baba.G in our lives”, which was released on the first day
of Navarathri. He had written a few lines of his latest
composition on the inside cover “ Consider all your
sorrows and problems banished as if it were yesterday;
the songs of the pure and holy Bala come wafting in the
breeze today”.

I noticed the number “7” written in black ink on the top

right hand corner of the very first page.
Baba.G. explained the significance of this number.

“ The number seven has great significance because my

father was born on February 7th” he said. “ Also, on the
very first day, while we were arranging the holy pot or
Kalasam on the first step of the peetam, we found that
the height had to be raised substantially for the pot to be
seated firmly . So, a few books were placed beneath the
pot to elevate it and increase the height.

It took exactly nine of these books to get the pot up to

the desired height and I wrote the respective numbers in
black ink on the inside cover of each one of these books
fully intending to give them away after the auspicious
period was over. So after the final day festivities were
completed, I decided to give these books to the closest
family members around me. The first book I gave my
father, the second one, I kept for myself, the third one
went to my mother, the fourth to Mohan, the fifth book
was accepted by Murali, the sixth by my uncle
Chinnamani, the sixth book by his son Manikandan.
Now, I was left with just three books and you are the
lucky recipient of this seventh book”.

I was quite overwhelmed. To even think that I was the

first member outside the family to have received this
book was indeed the biggest honor Bala could have
given me. I carefully took the book and the photo of Sri
Bala and later that night as I started to pack this was the
first precious object that I packed into the suitcase I was
taking back with me!

THE THIRTEENTH MIRACLE

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16TH, 2008.

How was I still at Chennai making one more, and

perhaps final trip to Nemili?

Well, after my visit on Monday, 13th, October, I definitely

thought I would depart as scheduled on Wednesday,
October 15th.

However, even as I checked in for my flight on line and

printed out my boarding pass, Bala ensured I would see
her one last time making sure I had completed a total of
thirteen journeys to Nemili. After all, Four is her number
and although I write about this today, Bala has decided
all my travel plans and my life‟s purpose, the very first
day I walked inside her Peetam!
On the morning of October 14th, there were a few
unpleasant family interludes at the end of which I
decided to cancel my travel plans for the next day. A
combination of events made me feel totally deprived of
expecting any understanding from even the precious
little family I had still left. In any case, although I wished
to make the correct decision, I also felt that whatever
decision I took at this time would be misinterpreted by
two opposing sets of family members.

Totally confused, I sought help from Bala. I called Sri

Ezhilmani and quickly explained my position. His answer
was clear “ Just go back at this time. There are certain
forces trying to make use of you to serve their own
selfish interests. So, even though you cancelled your
ticket, don‟t delay further, catch the next flight back to
London”.

So, this is exactly what I did.

I re scheduled my flight to Saturday October 18th and

decided to visit Nemili just once more to thank Bala and
Sri Ezhilmani for all the help, advice and support they
had given me and continue to give me.

I caught up with the family for the last time on the

evening of Thursday, October 16th and was particularly
happy to receive the blessings of Sri Baba.G. on this
day sacred and holy to the esteemed Guru!

Thirteen trips to Nemili had been made during the

auspicious period of Navarathri, 2008.
Bala had her own reasons why I should visit her.
She made sure I would write about certain episodes and
events that happened either during this period, before or
after it.

It‟s as if the concept of “Time” is no longer relevant as

far as Bala is concerned because she is there at all
times guiding me , comforting me and just being there
for me .

In a sense, even as I started to write about the thirteen

miracles, I repeatedly questioned Bala‟s directive.

Clearly, no great miracle occurred during these repeated

visits to Nemili during October, 2008.
I have said earlier, my fingers have sped over the
computer keyboard writing up the contents of each
chapter as though I have no volition of my own. The
words written here are definitely provided only by Bala.
There were times when I paused mid sentence trying
not to think about proceeding either forward or
backwards.

After all, Bala told me at the very outset “ Don‟t look

back at your writings or try and correct them. Move
forward only. And start each Miracle after listening to my
song. Don‟t attempt to correct anything until the very end
after you have completed writing. You shall stop when I
tell you to stop”.

I questioned her as I do now “ Isn‟t it a bit presumptuous

on my part to think that you, the great Goddess are
actually dictating this to me just as you do for Baba.G.
Who is going to believe this?”
The answer from her “ I am asking you to write certain
important things that I wish people to read. You are no
more important than any other of my devotees or even
those people who haven‟t even heard of me. I am
merely using you to accomplish my goal. This piece of
work is essential in my grand scheme of things that you
will never understand now. “

I pause for a moment.

After a break of a couple of days I resumed writing
today.( December 1st, 2008). Why today? I could have
written something yesterday after my Bala Parayanam;
or indeed written something tomorrow . Why did I
complete my writing today?

The answer for this too lies within the realm of Sri Bala.

Until the year 2002, I had not heard of Sri Bala. In the
year 2008, I can‟t think what my life will be without her!
I pray sincerely that I never lose sight of this amazing
child for the rest of this lifetime and even if I am reborn,
my only desire is to be in her service, within her sight, as
part of her vast and glorious family.

Sri Bala Charanam

Sri Bala Thunai.
o
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