When I planned my trip to Haldwani, it automatically meant one thing—I would be visiting Kainchi Dham.

And somewhere in my mind arose a divine thought: “Why not make besan laddoos as prasad for Baba?”

Now, let me clarify—this was my first-ever attempt at making besan laddoos.

The adventure began at 1 a.m. with me scavenging YouTube for recipes and cooking instructions. Armed with besan, ghee, fine granulated sugar (as strongly recommended by several experts on YouTube University), a pinch of turmeric, and almonds—the only dry fruit I could procure at that unearthly hour—I began my sacred mission.

Since there was no time to soak and peel the almonds, I sliced them thinly, skin and all, and proudly added them to the besan while roasting it.

Within minutes, Baba’s first lesson arrived.

The almond skins began burning.

I immediately realized my mistake and rescued the besan. After cooling it, I attempted to make laddoos.

What emerged was not laddoos. It was… a disaster.

(Picture attached for evidence.)

Panic entered the kitchen.

Using the few grey cells still functioning at that hour, I put the mixture in the freezer and resumed packing. When I returned, the “laddoos” had transformed into objects that could potentially qualify as geological samples.

Hard. As. Stone.

With no options left, they went into the microwave to soften. Naturally, being me, I miscalculated the timing, and the mixture happily returned to its original rebellious state. I managed to salvage part of it, while the rest stubbornly refused to become round.

Back into the freezer they went.

This time, I remained vigilant and removed them timely. 

And finally—victory!

Every last laddoo was rolled, packed, and ready for the journey.

The entire episode was a delightful mixture of comedy, chaos, anxiety, and faith. In the end, I told myself, “It is the bhav (intention) that matters. Baba will surely appreciate the thought and effort behind these imperfect laddoos.”

And Baba, in His infinite kindness, did exactly that.

I was blessed with a beautiful darshan and had the privilege of offering my handmade besan laddoos to Maharaj Ji.

Looking back, I feel Baba was smiling through the entire laddoo saga—watching me learn, panic, improvise, and finally surrender.

Thank you, Baba, for accepting not just the laddoos, but the love, devotion, and laughter that came wrapped inside them.