Return to Source What am I to quote, where quotation itself is staggered at my situation?  —Anonymous Sarasvatichandra and Chandrakant spent the day in a grass hut provided for them. That day they received many letters including from Bulwer Sahib, Laxminandan, Haridas, Uddhatlal and Tarang Shankar among others. Sarasvatichandra’s identity had become common knowledge among his friends, and all of them were on their way to Sundargiri. Both friends spent the day talking about Bombay and Ratnanagari. At dusk they decided to go out for a walk when there was a knock on their door. An ascetic came and lighted the lamps. Chandravali followed soon after. They stood up to greet her. Chandravali gave an account of all her conversations with Gunasundari and Kumud’s deliberations with Kusum. In conclusion she said, ‘Oh virtuous one, both sisters, with complete freedom, selfless intent and utter pragmatism, have come to the decision that Madhuri Maiya—known as Kumud Sundari in the outside world—shall lead an ascetic’s life, and they have requested you to accept Kusumbehn’s love with all the compassion that you are capable of. Kusum, like Ganga, shall merge with your oceanic self, and Kumud shall be her Yamuna. This is for the good of all. I have examined the hearts of both sisters and have arrived at the conclusion that the welfare of all concerned can be best secured by the remedy suggested by them. This is also the moral and the righteous path. Tell me, what is your command?’

Chandrakant spoke up joyously, ‘Friend, if you wish to retain this kantha, even Kusum Sundari will adopt it. You will be able to realise your dream world and the aspirations of others. Sheth Laxminandan will be here tomorrow. If you accept this request of these two virtuous, learned and cultured women, it would give joy to all hearts, except maybe yours. And the sacrificial fire that you wish to light shall burn bright. If your heart desires to turn down this request, then please offer your aspirations as oblation to that fire. You and Kumud Sundari had initially given the responsibility to me and had asked me to be your judge. Now I command you to accept this proposal. You had agreed to abide by the wishes of the two sisters. Their wish has also been expressed. Someone like Chandravali Maiya testifies to the fact that this is their heartfelt desire and not a false expression. There is no question of asking for your heart’s consent; you are required only to give your verbal consent. This is also the wish of the Master. He told you at the time of initiation that you should forsake ego and prestige. He also told you to forsake, if necessary, this symbolic kantha. Do not commit the misdeed of turning away a seeker like Chandravali Maiya empty-handed!’ Chandravali: ‘Oh virtuous one, I have also obtained the opinions of Jnanbharati and Viharpuri in this matter. They are Guruji’s favourite disciples and have attained superior capabilities. Both