“Pakoda means little fat, but Bonda means very fat…”

November 25, 2002 (Monday)

Swami came towards a student and materialised a ring for him.

Swami    :    Correct size. Is it ok?

Student    :    Yes Swami.

Swami    :  Goldsmith, Size Teesukoni wrong size Chesistaadu (A goldsmith even after taking the size makes a wrong-sized one)!

(To Brindavan Warden) Have all the boys come?

Warden    :    Yes Swami.

Swami    :    (To a student) How are you Pakoda? (Swami often uses this name to tease students who are chubby or over-weight. ‘Pakoda’ is a kind of fried item made of flour.) (To another student) What is the difference between a Pakoda and a Bonda? (There was no reply. Then He said smilingly) Pakoda Ante Koncham Fat, Bonda Ante Chaala Fat (Pakoda means little fat, but Bonda means very fat). 

(Takes a letter from a few students. Seeing one of the letters.) This is waste of paper. (Seeing another) Good boy, you should write only two lines. (Takes another letter from a student) He has written, “My Dear Lord.” If you write, “Our Dear Lord,” many will be included. But if you write only, “My Dear Lord,” only you are included. (Taking a letter from a student) This boy spoke better than you the other day. He spoke very confidently and firmly.

Swami then went back into the interview room.


Source: Students with Sai: Conversations (2001-2004)