BHAGAVAN NITYANANDA
Bhagavan Nityananda of Ganeshpuri is a Siddha Guru of the Avadhoot lineage, lovingly called ‘Baba’ by his devotees. Bhagavan was a Siddha Purusha by birth and whose birth details are relatively unknown, but according to his disciples, Nityananda was found as an infant in Tuneri village, Kozhikode, Kerela. Later he moved to Ganeshpuri, Maharasthra. From childhood he displayed all the qualities of an Atma Gnani and hence was named Nityananda literally meaning the one always in bliss.
Baba was mostly silent, but a devotee named Tulsiamma accounted for some of his teachings. Later, his notes were compiled and published in the Kannada language and the compilation is known as Chidaksha Geeta.
The first floor of the main ashram complex enshrines a lifelike idol of Baba in Dhyana Mudra looking eastwards upon Arunachaleshwara from his shrine. Only experience can tell how obvious his presence is at his Anthahkarana Ashram abode.
Baba’s Aarti written in Marathi accurately sums up what Baba is to his devotees:
Jay Jay Aarati Nityananda
Saguna Rupi Govinda
Jay Jay Aarati Nityananda
Pratham Datta Rupa Gheshi
Meaning:
Hail, Hail Nityananda with this offering, you are the form of Govinda; Hail .Hail Nityananda with this offering
Dwitiya Shripada Hoshi
Tritiya Narahari Hoshi
Ganagapuri Lilaa Daavishi
Meaning:
First You took the form of Dattatrey. Secondly you became Shripada ( Shripada Shri Valabha, the second (Avatara) incarnation of Lord Datta). Third you became Narahari (Shri Nurshimha Sarawati he is third incarnation, who spent 23 years in Ganagapur, and did his lilaas for uplifting seekers.) You showed your lilaas in Ganagapur.
Maanik Prabhu Tu Hoshi
Akkalkot Swami Hoshi
Shiradi Sai Nath Hoshi
Shiradi Sai Nath Hoshi
Kali Yugi Nityananda Banashi
Meaning:
You are Manik Prabhu. You are Akkalkot Swami. You are Shiradi’s Sai Baba. In Kali yuga you became Nityananda.
Aaisi Aneka Rupe tu Gheshi
Ganeshpuri Tu Vasashi
Bhaktan Chya Eichya Puravishi
Balanna Bahu Aavadashi
Meaning:
Like this, you took many forms. You live in Ganeshpuri. You fulfil desires of your devotees (Bhakta). You are most loved by children.