Dada [Sudhir Mukerjee] is recognized as one of the devotees who has been closest to Maharajji. Their relationship has been so intimate for so long that we treasure Dada's stories about his "Baba" as especially precious. He is our elder brother in Maharajji's spiritual family. -from the introduction by Ram Dass
This book ties in beautifully with Ram Dass’ collection of stories about Neem Karoli Baba “Miracle of Love”. This time, it is from the writer’s own experience of more than 30 years of loving service and living with the extraordinary being that is Maharajji. I really enjoyed the more authentic Indian perspective in these wonderful stories. A lot of the English books available on this subject are mainly from Westerners close to Babaji helping to translate these teachings and practices for a Western audience. The unique experience and closeness of Dada Mukerjee (and his family) with Neem Karoli Baba is the focal center of most of the stories that never fail to capture the beautiful spirit and transcendental nature of Maharajji. It was already mentioned here in a comment that most books about Maharajji deserve more than 5 stars, and I fully agree :-)
What called me to this book is the significance that Maharajji played in Ram Dass path. This book was recommended after I finished a book by Ram Dass, and I decided to give it a try. Its hard to be open minded enough after we have been conditioned so much in the west, so i found myself reading while subconsciously also seeking clues that discredit the whole book. Dada’s devotion and love for Maharajji was so moving. Now if you are westernized, you will probably think that Dada was disrespected and taken for granted while he served his guru without restraint. Heck you may even think the guru is just using him. Then there are countless people also feeling that devotion and love. Dada talks about all the miracles that Maharajji did. So while reading i was on the look for anything that proved Maharajji wasn’t the real deal. At the same time i was evaluating Maharajji changing traits, how he behaved in some contradictory ways at times. I basically was reading with the mind and based in preconceived notions. However slowly I started surrendering into this love that Baba experienced. Near the end of the book I couldn’t even look at the photos of Maharajji because i felt shame I thought wrong. I felt so moved at the end and I could feel the love behind this book not just from the devotees, but also from Maharajji. I don’t think i can understand these words with the mind but when i open to the love, it all makes sense without making sense
A beautiful book detailing the experiences of Shri Dada Mukherjee, a close confidant of Neem Karoli Baba. The Grace of the Guru fell on Dada unknown to him and later spent a large part of his years in the shelter of the Guru. The book traces several incidents and events in the life of Neem Karoli Baba in the company of Dada. The last chapter (which is actually a talk by Dada) is just beautiful. A must read for those interested in spirituality and bhakti.
If Neem Karoli Baba has touched your heart, you simply need to read this book. I would guess that the writer, ”Dada”, was the person who spent more time with him than anyone else and therefore his stories about the Baba are really special.
A quick read that is a must for any devotee or person fascinated by Neem Karoli Baba. Dada becomes a devotee, not without a bit of skepticism, and this story is about his journey into love and finding a purpose. Very interesting.
3.5 stars. Warm, light-hearted tales of Neem Karoli Baba told be one of his devotees: Dada Mukerjee. It's a light enjoyable read about the great grace-giving Indian guru. However, there wasn't a whole lot of spiritual wisdoms and the stories aren't overly thrilling.
The MOST important book that captures the essence of Baba and his life on earth. I was brought to tears when I read this book. So glad this was the book I chose to read on Thanksgiving Day. Incredibly grateful !
Reading this wonderful book was a definite Satsang ( being in the presence of Sat ie., Truth ie., Guru) for me and if approached with a similar attitude can indeed cook / prepare the mind of a devotee / sadhaka for further Grace🙏🏼
I enjoyed reading Dada's stories. It was good to read the stories of Neeb Karori Baba as told by someone other than Baba Ram Dass. Love. Serve. Remember.