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4. An Extraordinary Child
Devbai would often take her young son Laxminandan, as Shrimad was originally named, with her when visiting her friend and neighbour, the elderly Naku. He would sit as still as a statue for an hour or more at the old lady's house, neither crying nor indulging in pranks.
'What an unusual child !' mused his mother, observing her little boy, who conducted himself as if his mind, speech and body were all totally calm, and he were at peace with himself.
Shrimad resembled a "balyogi" - a child saint - in full control of his senses. While no ordinary child of three would be able to sit so still, the young Shrimad did, an early sign of the great spiritual development with which he had come into this world.
The Grandfather Panchanbhai's life was full of joy, finally blessed at an advanced age with a son and then, compounding his good fortune, he was blessed with a wonderful grandson. He showered the young Shrimad with love, and would often take him to the local temple, where they would sing hymns of Lord Krishna's glory.
Shrimad would hear episodes from the Mahabharat, a great Sanskrit epic, and he became familiar with the various accounts of Lord Vishnu's incarnations, of which Lord Krishna was one, and learnt about the great miracles attributed to him. Shrimad always looked forward to learning more about his beloved Lord.
Shrimad related his experiences and thoughts at this age in 'Samuchchay Vayacharya,' a review of his life till the age of 13, which he wrote on his twenty-third birthday. He has written his thoughts on the Vaishnav religion (which worships Lord Vishnu). He would occasionally dream of being a mahant (spiritual leader) or a tyagi, one who has renounced all worldly possessions, while at other times he would think of more worldly fulfillment.
The young Shrimad had an inquisitive mind and would run to his grandfather with all his questions. Panchanbhai would answer his queries and dispel any doubts he might voice. The closer he grew to his grandfather, the more devoted he became to Lord Krishna.
