Ranga Iyer
THE GURU IS EASWARA Bhagavan's childhood friend Vilacheri Ranga iyer once wrote to Bhagavan to say that he was going to Kumbakonam with his family, to participate in the Mahamaham ritual (a holy dip in the sacred tank which is done once every twelve years.) Ranga iyer went to Kumbakonam as planned, but on the day of the festival, he suddenly decided to come to Skandasram. Seeing him and his family, Bhagavan exclaimed, "What is this, Ranga! You said you are going to Kumabakonam, but you are here! Why did you change your plans?" Rangaiyer replied, "This place is more sacred to me than Kumbakonam. I feel that the Lord who is here is even greater than the Lord in Kumbakonam." Bhagavan did not say anything. On the day of his departure, Ranga iyer came to take leave of Bhagavan. He stood in front of Bhagavan with tears in his eyes, unable to tear himself away from his beloved Master. Bhagavan looked at him and, in the gentlest, most compassionate