A small memorial shrine had been constructed in Gondal at the place where the last rites of Gunatitanand Swami had been performed. It was called Akshar Deri. To add to its sanctity, Shastriji Maharaj started building a beautiful mandir over it. Yogiji Maharaj was stationed there at the time. Every day he used to get up early in the morning at four o’clock and perform puja of the charnarvind of Shriji Maharaj which had been consecrated there. He also performed the mahapuja and offered thal in the Akshar Deri.
While the mandir was being built, Yogiji Maharaj and other sadhus used to live in huts built of mud and bricks. Once at midnight, while Yogiji Maharaj was sound asleep, a venomous black cobra bit the index finger of his left hand. The sudden rush of pain woke him up.
As a result of the poison, the pain quickly spread through his whole body. However, Yogiji Maharaj did not complain. While chanting the Swaminarayan mantra his eyes closed.
Some anxious devotees suggested a physician be called. Others proposed various remedies. Meanwhile, Shastriji Maharaj arrived. When he heard about the snake bite he said, “Take Yogiji Maharaj to the Akshar Deri and chant the Swaminarayan mantra. The effect of the poison will vanish by the divine power of the Swaminarayan Mahamantra.” Immediately, the sadhus lifted Yogiji Maharaj and carried him to the Akshar Deri and started chanting the holy name of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. After exactly twelve hours, the effect of the poison subsided. Yogiji Maharaj opened his eyes and bowed to Shastriji Maharaj. Just then, a government doctor arrived. He was amazed to see that the effect of the poison had been nullified by chanting the Swaminarayan mantra. He fell at the feet of Shastriji Maharaj. The King of Gondal and his officers were also surprised at the divine power of the Akshar Deri. They were convinced that it was a highly sanctified place.