Sukhdev, the Air Force Officer, had received the news about the revolver attack on Shri Nathji and decided to go to Mussoorie from Bombay. Since no plane was available for a flight from Bombay to Dehra Dun, he reached Dehra Dun by train. He discovered that there was a footpath leading from Dehra Dun to Mussoorie, which was about seven miles long. It was a path rarely used by people. Only young students and hikers used it as a means of exercise. Although there was the usual mode of travel by car or bus available to him, Sukhdev decided that he would go for Shri Nathji’s darshan on foot. This would be like an austerity or penance that he would practice to secure the holy darshan of Shri Nathji.
He began to walk without his shoes on. It was a novel way of expressing his devotion. Here was a man who had seldom, if ever, walked barefoot even on the ground in his home. Walking on a footpath strewn with small pebbles was much more than the tender soles of his feet could endure. However, the image of Shri Nathji was in his mind and he walked on, not caring for the pain.
For a while it appeared to him as if he were walking on roses. His body felt as light as a feather and it knew no fatigue. As he climbed up, the thought entered his mind: Surely there must be no greater devotee than me! I am sure none of Shri Nathji’s devotees ever walked up to him barefooted like this!
No sooner had the thought entered his mind, than his body began to swelter. He sat down on a rock, his knees tired and aching. The sun had begun to set. He suddenly realised what had happened. His pride had come in the way! He repented and prayed to Shri Nathji. He understood then, that it was not his own strength but rather the power of Shri Nathji that was taking him up the hill.
His prayer was heard. A group of four coolies appeared on the road miraculously, carrying an empty Dandi – an open palanquin meant for old people and invalids. Sukhdev climbed in the Dandi and arrived at Shri Nathji’s house.
The next morning saw him sitting in the verandah of St. Andrews, polishing Shri Nathji’s shoes. When Sukhdev was leaving Mussoorie, Shri Nathji asked him how he would go down.
Walking, said Sukhdev.
And Shri Nathji said: No, you must not walk. Go by taxi. You are now carrying me within yourself!
Shri Nathji often narrated the above episode in his sermons. It showed that no matter how great a man’s faith, he must never allow pride to enter within him. The entry of pride within the heart led to a shutting off of the divine current.