Fate vs. Effort: Can Hard Work Override the Horoscope?
The Leela
In the 29th chapter of the Sai Satcharitra, we encounter Babu Rao, the son of Raghunath Rao Tendulkar, who was diligently preparing for his medical examinations. He was 'burning the midnight oil,' sparing no effort in his studies. However, the human mind is often plagued by insecurity. Seeking validation, Babu Rao consulted an astrologer to predict his results. The astrologer, after examining the planetary positions, delivered a crushing verdict: 'This year is not favorable. You will not qualify, no matter how hard you work.'
Instantly, Babu's enthusiasm evaporated. He fell into a deep dejection, convinced that his efforts were destined to be in vain. His mother, Savitri Bai, witnessing her son's despair, took the matter to Shirdi. When she laid the situation before Sai Baba, the Master did not consult a chart or calculate zodiac signs. instead, He spoke with the supreme authority of the Controller of the Universe.
He commanded the mother to tell her son to disregard the astrologer entirely. Babu Rao was told to 'roll up' the horoscope, put it aside, and proceed with his exams with a relaxed mind and full faith in Baba. Though Babu's confidence wavered—even causing him to miss an oral exam initially due to fear—the examiner eventually sent for him. Against the astrologer's prediction, Babu passed his written exams and, through Baba's grace, cleared the hurdles to succeed.
? The Conflict / Doubt
Who dominates our life—Prarabdha (Destiny/Luck) or Purushartha (Self-Effort)? Should a devotee rely on the predictions of astrology and planetary alignments, or can hard work and faith alter what is written in the stars?
The Revelation
The Supremacy of Action over Astrology
Sai Baba resolves the ancient conflict between fate and free will by establishing the primacy of Purushartha (resolute effort) sanctified by faith.
- Fate is the Progeny of Action: Baba clarifies that destiny is not random; it is the result of past Karma. Therefore, if past actions created the present fate, intense present actions (Purushartha) can reshape the future.
- The Guru vs. The Planets: While astrology deals with the mechanics of planetary influence, the Sadguru represents the Power that created those planets. When one takes refuge in the Guru, the planets lose their stinging power.
- Discarding Fear: Baba explicitly instructs the devotee to ignore negative predictions. Believing in a horoscope over the Guru is a lack of faith.
Baba’s command to Babu Rao was unequivocal:
"Tell him to listen to me! Say that I have said to roll up and keep aside that horoscope and go and appear for the exam with his mind at rest. You will succeed. Have full faith in me!"
- The Stone and the Sky: The transcript uses a poetic metaphor: "Who says there cannot be a hole in the sky? Throw a stone with full capacity, friend." This implies that with the Sadguru's blessings and resolute hard work, even the "sky" of pre-destined fate can be pierced. Do not be a puppet of fate; be the controller through righteous action.
Scriptural References
đź“– Sai Satcharitra Chapter 29
Watch the Discourse
In the 29th chapter of the *Sai Satcharitra*, we encounter Babu Rao, the son of Raghunath Rao Tendulkar, who was diligently preparing for his medical examinations. He was 'burning the midnight oil,' s...
Leela Narration
In the 29th chapter of the *Sai Satcharitra*, we encounter Babu Rao, the son of Raghunath Rao Tendulkar, who was diligently preparing for his medical examinations. He was 'burning the midnight oil,' s...