Radhanath Swami and the Medical Logic

Would Radhanath Swami follow his doctor’s advice? In concern, a group clamored impatiently outside the room, as Dr. Dhalal, accompanied by the president of Radhagopinath Ashram, conversed with Radhanath Swami behind closed doors.

After only five minutes, the doctor and the president emerged out and related what had just transpired. When they had entered Radhanath Swami’s room, they found him lying on the bed—semiconscious. Perhaps—they had concluded—the Swami’s adamancy was a rumor. In such weary health, it was impossibility for the Swami to even fantasize following his robust schedule. After exchanging some pleasantries, however, it was clear—that Radhanath Swami indeed planned to travel fifty miles, on bumpy roads, to Meera Road, suburban Mumbai, that evening; and then discourse to thousands, who aspired for a wholesome spiritual lifestyle. Upon repeated appeals to cancel the evening engagement, Radhanath Swami had spoken out his heart, “If I can’t serve humanity, what is the use of me living?”  Still the duo pressed, and Radhanath Swami had finally relented, but with a clause, “If I am unable to walk to the car on my own, I won’t travel.” Given his condition—the two felt—the clause was redundant. He definitely couldn’t walk to his car, and that meant he didn’t travel.

Happily, Dr. Dhalal (who happens to be my husband) and I returned to Meera Road where we stay.

That evening, as we stepped out of Bhaktivedanta Hospital at Meera Road, a green Qualis zoomed by. All of a sudden my husband was thunderstruck. His mouth dropped open and his eyes filled with tears. “Didn’t you see?” he whispered. “It was Radhanath Swami in that car. I saw him hanging forward on his seat belt.” I didn’t believe.

An hour later we were at the pandal erected near Radhagiridhari Temple where Radhanath Swami was scheduled to speak. Now that Radhanath Swami wasn’t coming, who was his replacement, who dared to face the disappointment of the audience? I was in wonder, while my husband was in worry. He was sure Radhanath Swami was behind the stage.

And sure enough, Radhanath Swami walked from behind the stage and spoke a mesmerizing talk for about an hour—as per usual. My husband quietly shared his conclusion with me—that attitudes could indeed help one defy medical logic.

–Vishaka Priya

Related Posts:

• Radhanath Swami, as sweet as a leader could be.
• Radhanath Swami’s Unwillingness to Take Credit
• Discipleship under Radhanath Swami
• Radhanath Swami’s Lesson in Leadership
• Radhanath Swami and a Special Security Guard