This is a tribute to a great lady, with whom I have had two memorable encounters.Aunti Baba died this morning. I was very fortunate to have been able to say good-bye to her last night. She was a strong, passionate and caring lady with a zest for life that sets an example for us all.

She passed away at the young age of 69, surrounded by her children and grandchildren. You could see that love that she had for everyone. It was reflected in the tender and loving way that they treated her. So many people were there, eyes red from having shed many tears of sadness, knowing that she was about to slip away. Yet, their lips were smiling in gratitude for every second that she was among them. She will always live on in the love that they shared together.

I first met Auntie Baba last summer, at a Ganga Puja and picnic organized by the mandir that I attend. After the formal part of the puja had been completed, all of the fruits and flowers offered to Ganga Mata floated gaily in the water.

A few people went to immerse themselves in the water to feel the blessings of Ganga Mata. Some went in very cautiously, up to their ankles, taking care not to get the clothes wet, others, hiked up their clothing and went in up to their knees. But not Auntie Baba. Auntie Baba strode purposefully into the water fully clothed. went in deep enough to immerse herself wholely in Mother Ganga three times, and then went for an envigorating swim.

This was my first formal Ganga Puja that was presided over by a Purohit, a Pundit who eloquently chanted the appropriate mantras and guided us as we made our offerings of Love to Devi Mata. I was a bit shy, afraid that I might not perform the ritual in the appropriate manner. I made a few mistakes, but I hope I have learned what to do next time.

I longed to go into the water after the puja, but was hesitant. When I finally overcame my shyness, I slowly waded into the surprisingly warm water. Auntie Baba saw me come in. She waited until I reached her, and told me that I should “duck” my head. I did. She said: “No, like so” as she pushed by head and held under the water. “Three times”, she said. I immersed myself in the water one more time.
That was three. “Three times”, she said again. I said it was three times. “No”, she said, “the first one doesn’t count”. Whereupon she firmly “ducked” me in the water for what was for her the actual third time.

We stayed in the water for awhile, laughing and splashing each other playfully, then we finally came ashore.

That was a most marvelous experience. Feeling the love and joy of Aunti Baba, and feeling the blessings of Ganga Mata on my skin. I felt a warm glow that lasted all afternoon. I did not take off my wet sari. I let the sun dry it, as I savoured the feelings that Aunti Baba had so kindly shared with me, a stranger.

Strangers we were no longer, and I longed to see her again. As fate would have it, I did not see here again until last night, on her deathbed. I accompanied my Gurudev to the hospital as he had received a call from her family.

She recognised me instantly. Grabbed my hand and said emphatically: “I bathed you!”
She held on to my hand very tightly, until her daughter gently removed her fingers, one by one from mine.

This great lady, with whom I had only two encounters, will influence me for the rest of my life. Her love, her faith, her sense of humour and zest for life, are an example that we all can learn from.

I love you, Auntie Baba! There wasn’t time for me to say it last night. I hope you can hear me today. I love you, Aunti Baba!