Swami Subodhananda was practising austerities in Gaya when he had a life threatening experience which he later described: ‘It was the month of August. I saw a person wade through the Phalgu river and reach the other side. It was waist-deep, so I decided to cross. My companion knew to swim, but I didn’t. Suddenly the river swelled with a strong current because of heavy rain. When I had crossed a certain distance, I suddenly found myself in neck-deep water. I realised that there was very little chance of saving my life and so I said to my companion: “I don’t know where this current will take me. There is little chance for my life. Please convey my salutations to my brother disciples.” Then I prayed to the Master, “Please accept my last pranam.” As soon as I said that, I was completely submerged. I felt that someone held my hand and pulled me through that gushing stream to the other side of the river.’