Shirdi

Covering an area of little more than two sq km, the small town of Shirdi is situated near Nasik. It is the abode of the great saint Sai Baba. Because of its association with the great saint it attracts hundreds of worshippers and followers of the noble sage throughout the year. The presence of devotees in such large numbers lends a ambience of spirituality and mysticism to this town. Once you visit this place you can get a feel of the great devotional intensity.

Saibaba was an Indian Guru, who was treated with great reverence by both Hindu and Muslim communities. His life and teachings are wonderful semblance of both faiths. The faith and conviction of the devotees of Saibaba will not only touch you but also leave a lasting impression on your mind.

The Samadhi Mandir, home of Sai Baba’s interred remains is the most significant site in Shirdi. The Samadhi comprises a beautiful, white marble structure with impressive intricate carvings, a beautiful Italian marble statue of Sai Baba, a vast assembly hall and memorabilia from the saint’s life. Close to the Samadhi mandir is Dwarkamai Masjid, a mosque where the sage lived and preached. A sacred fire lit by him still burns here; its ashes are still distributed among devotees.

The Gurusthan, is a holy site, under a Neem tree. It was here that Baba sat when he first came to Shirdi as a boy. A shrine built here houses the statue and portrait of the guru. Close by is the Chavadi Mandir. The great saint used to sleep here on alternate days.  A white chair and wooden bed belonging to him can be seen here. The Khandoba Mandir is where the Baba was declared as a saint. The Lendi Baug, located at a short distance is a serene garden where the saint meditated.

Close to Shirdi, you can come across many other holy sites as well. The small town of Sakori, located just five km away, houses the well known Shri Upasani Kanyakumari Sthan. The village of Shanisinghnapur, is looked upon as the abode of Lord Shani. Plenty of worshippers come here to offer prayers, especially on Shani Amavasya, a holy moonless night. Three other temples, honouring the gods Ganesh, Shani and Mahadev, can also be found in Shirdi.

Shirdi comes alive during festival season. At this time of the year it radiates lots of religious fervor and excitement. Important festivals that are celebrated here during the festival season are Ramnavami, Guru Purnima and Shirdi Vijayadashmi. Each ceremony is accompanied by processions, special foods and various other religious paraphernalia.