Meditation is a state of a continuously flowing stream of thought, free from extraneous ideas. Its culmination is Samadhi. This is the ultimate state of bliss where all connections with the external world are severed. The goal of yogic practice is this Samadhi and the Moksha (liberation) attained through it. A Yogi who reaches Samadhi exhausts their ‘Prarabdha Karma’ (destiny from past actions). Sree Narayana Guru, engrossed in meditation, also attained Samadhi.
By around 1927, Sree Narayana Guru sensed that his earthly mission was nearing its end. He convened a small group of physicians to discuss his age-related ailments. Being well-versed in Ayurvedic science himself, Guru often engaged in insightful debates with them. Even in the throes of illness, his spontaneous wit remained undiminished. Despite extreme physical weakness, he readily accepted assistance from others. With a strong sense of justice, he participated in discussions regarding his material possessions and other affairs, ensuring proper arrangements were meticulously made.
On January 16, 1928, Guru attended an S.N.D.P. meeting in Kottayam before heading to the Bellur Mutt in Vaikom. There, he developed a urinary tract infection, necessitating the attention of Dr. Nagojee Rao. Expert examination revealed severe urinary disease complicated by a hernia, leading to the decision to move him to Palakkad for specialized treatment. While resting at Dr. Krishna's bungalow in Palakkad, he found some relief, but based on Dr. Pandala's opinion, he was subsequently shifted to Madras, accompanied by many disciples. The treatment in Madras under Dr. Pandala proved effective, bringing some remission, though the urinary obstruction wasn't fully cleared. Following this, Guru expressed a preference for indigenous treatment.
He returned to Palakkad, and after a week of indigenous therapy, decided to return to Travancore. In 1928, Guru arrived in Varkala, continuing his treatment at the Sree Narayana Mutt's guesthouse. During this period of rest, Nataraja Guru sought his explanation for some verses from Atmopadesa Shatakam. Guru responded not verbally, but by turning his gaze towards the questioner; Nataraja Guru recorded that Guru's face at that moment reflected the profound spiritual wisdom characteristic of masters imparting yogic knowledge. Guru had meanwhile arranged for Nataraja Guru to pursue higher studies at Sorbonne University in Paris. Though Guru’s illness seemed to subside for a few days, he remained extremely weak. Yet, regardless of his own suffering, Guru compassionately blessed the sick and poor who sought refuge in him.
