The eloquence of the Master was indeed his vibhuti [special glory] that casts a spell on even the most ‘out-turned’ soul to make him pause, think, and change.
At one of Gurudev’s yajnas in Kerala, a young student rebelliously disturbed the satsanga when he got up and shouted from the end of the hall: “Wait a minute, Swami! Only those who respect you will obey you. But a person like me, who has no respect for you, will not obey. So, of what use are your advice and your instructions?”
Without pausing even for a moment, Gurudev called out cheerfully to the young rebel, “Is that so? Then come up here and I will show you!” The crowd, though anxious, made way for the youngster so he could walk up to Gurudev’s seat.
Determined to show disrespect, the young fellow walked forward, head erect, and reached Gurudev. He stood at Gurudev’s right side. “Please, I think we can talk better if you move over to the left,” said Gurudev.
The young man walked over to Gurudev’s left. “No, I think it is better for you to stand in front of me for the discussion, as you don’t respect me.” So the young man walked over to stand in front of Gurudev.
“Now, could you come back to where you stood in the first place, here on my right?” was Swamiji’s next request. The young man did so.“Now, sit down,” commanded Swamiji. The youngster sat down.
“Please,” said Swamiji, “can you now repeat your earlier statement?” The young fellow was silent, thoughtful. But the crowd could not suppress its laughter any longer. “You see, young man,” said Swamiji, “respect is not necessary to obey what the elders say. All you need is the anxiety to know. You are obeying me. You are gentle and good.”
The young man bowed and left in silence.