Sai Sethuram (58) has spent most of his life on the pavements of Bangalore’s Kamaraj Road, providing balm for both the body and soul of people who stop to seek his counsel. His ‘office’ is under a tree in the car park and for the past twenty years, he has read palms and dispensed traditional Indian medicine. When this writer approached him, perhaps seeing opportunity, Sethuram immediately demanded Rs 1,000. But fairly soon, he settled down to speak about himself. Talking about one’s self can be a heady experience, and Sethuram revelled in it.
Where did you learn palm reading?
(Reveals a crumbling book on palmistry) I have this book that… (mumbles inaudibly) I have been using for the past 20 years on this very road.
How many predictions have come true so far?
I don’t know. Not many people come back. Every time it’s a new face. But yes, most are satisfied with what I say, I can know from their facial expressions.
What else do you do?
I treat people who are sick. I am a healer. Since I have spent time in the forests meditating, I understand the healing powers of medicinal herbs. I have medicines for leprosy, paralysis, joint pains and heart problems.
Are they effective?
They are good.
(There are two mangy dogs sleeping beside him) What about these dogs. Are they yours?
No. They belong to the Army office across the road. But they prefer to stay with me. They follow me around wherever I go. They have grown fond of me. There’s a deeper meaning to it. While most humans ignore me as they pass by, as if I don’t exist, these creatures crowd around me. They understand my greatness.
How is the astrology business these days?
Very dull. It has been several days now and not one person has shown his palm to me. Probably they think a sadhu cannot be of help to them. Most people park their cars here and go shopping on Commercial Street.
How much do you charge?
Since business comes only once in a while, I charge Rs 50 or Rs 100 for predicting their future.
So why did you ask me to pay Rs 1000?
I thought you would profit from my picture.
What do you mean?
You might sell my picture or win a prize in a competition. You would become famous and I’d still be sitting here.
I see that you’ve stuck a picture of Shirdi Saibaba on the tree behind you. Are you a devotee?
Yes, he’s my everything. I live for him.
Would he approve of your smoking? I saw you smoking as I came here.
Yes, so what. Shouldn’t a swamiji smoke? After all, he’s also a human being.
But then, what sort of an example are you projecting to the people?
A straight-forward personality. It’s better than the people who look decent but are evil.