BABA SHIV DAS AT VARANASI

In the winter of 2014, I found myself wandering the ghats of Kashi in Varanasi, searching for captivating photo-stories. It was during one of these strolls that I encountered Baba Shiv Das, basking in the warmth of the rising sun with a cup of tea in one hand and a cigarette in the other. The photographer in me couldn’t resist capturing a few candid shots, though I felt a twinge of guilt about invading his privacy. To my surprise, Baba Shiv Das turned his head, fixed me with an intense gaze, and beckoned with his index finger, saying, “Hey! Come here.”

Despite my initial apprehension due to past encounters with arrogant sadhus, I decided to approach him. To my delight, Baba Shiv Das was kind, peaceful, and soft-spoken. He gently advised me that photographing people without their knowledge was inappropriate. When I apologized, he graciously granted me permission to take some close-up shots. Captivated by his charming blue eyes, which glittered like pearls through my viewfinder, I mentioned that the river Ganga seemed to flow through his eyes. He burst into laughter, and I quickly captured that moment on film as well.

After the photo shoot and a brief conversation, the entire episode slipped from my mind, and the pictures were soon forgotten, buried deep in my hard drives.

IN DEEP THOUGHTS :: BABA SHIV DAS AT VARANASI

A recent YouTube video about Baba Shiv Das evoked memories and led me to uncover photos taken seven years ago.

In 1974, a 22-year-old Italian named Alessandro arrived in India for the first time. As a lead guitarist with a deep passion for music, his quest led him to Varanasi. However, Alessandro was soon captivated by the enchanting world of spirituality and became deeply immersed in it. Recognizing that his destiny had brought him to Varanasi, he chose to dedicate his life as a Sadhu, adopting the name Baba Shiv Das. From that moment on, he lived a saintly life. He never missed his daily ritual of bathing in the Ganga at 4:30 in the morning, followed by worship and a visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Sadly, in May 2020, at the age of 68, he was diagnosed with a severe chest infection that proved fatal. His mortal remains were immersed in the Ganga, and Baba Shiv Das, who cherished living in India, became one with the Indian soil. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

POWERFUL EYES :: BABA SHIV DAS AT VARANASI

A CONTENTED SADHU :: BABA SHIV DAS AT VARANASI