It was from Jullunder that Shri Nathji decided to go to the Himalayas, in the mountain ranges of which was situated the city of Mussoorie. It was a small city, known as a hill station, built by the British over a hundred years ago, and which catered mainly to the army officers in the British Government who sought a relief from the heat of the plains of India. The Rajas and Maharajas as well as the Nawabs of the time had also made Mussoorie a holiday home, and many had built palaces and mansions there.
Mussoorie was also a city where the elite and intellectuals of the country came during the summer holidays. Large numbers of the bar and judiciary frequented the city during their vacations. The professors and students of the universities of India also came to the place seeking a relief from the oppressive heat of the plains. Mingled with this elite group there were the poor people of the city, the coolies and labourers, as well as the shopkeepers who came to the city to make a livelihood, serving the rich and the affluent.
Shri Nathji’s younger brother, Prem Nath, who was very westernised and had a princely demeanour, had wished fervently to go to the mountains, and it was at his insistence that Shri Nathji had gone to Mussoorie. Shri Nathji had always said that he never made any plans of his own but was always guided by the wishes of others.
I am like a dry leaf which has no will of its own. It goes wherever the wind takes it. I go wherever there is a need for me, wherever thirsty souls lie in wait for me. It is a programme that has been chalked out since the beginning of time.