Sai Baba

Festivals in Shridi

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Ramnavami : March/April
Guru Purnima : July
Shirdi Vijayadashmi (Sri Sai Punyatithi) October

Festivals are great time to visit Shirdi of Saibaba. There are three major festivals that are held in Shirdi attracting thousands of devotees from across the world. The three major festivals celebrated at Shirdi are Ramnavami, Guru Purnima and Shirdi Vijayadashmi. All these festivals are celebrated all across India with equal zest and excitement but at Shirdi they have some other significance. All these festivals have their special distinction to them in the way they are celebrated in the other parts of India. The distinction is the association of Saibaba himself which add to these festivals all new and exciting verve to them.

Ramnavami
Ramanavi is one of the most important festivals celebrated with great excitement and fanfare. In the year 1897 Goplarao Gund proposed holding in Urus in name of Saibaba in gratitude of a child which he was granted after so many childless years. Saibaba conceded to celebrate his urus on the condition that it be celebrated on Ramnavami. This was indeed an ingenious touch of Saibaba bringing together the Hindus and Muslims together. People may know Urus is a Muslim festival that is celebrated to honor a saint.

You can come to participate in Ramanavami at Shirdi, celebrated every year in March or April. This shows the kind of communal harmony that weaves people of different faiths at Shirdi. Ramnavami has equal and enthusiastic participation of both Hindus and Muslims. In Shirdi, two locally historic rituals are carried out during this festival. The sack of wheat that is kept in Dwarkamai is changed and the old one taken to prasadalaya to be used there, and secondly, the dwarkamai flags are replaced. This year that is in 2007, Shirdi is celebrating the Ramnavami from 26th to 28th of March.

Gurupurnima
Gurupurnima or Full Moon is also a wonderful time to visit Shirdi. It is the time to honor the Guru and seek his special blessing. Quite a significant festival in Shirdi Guru Purnima was the only festival which Saibaba has asked his devotees to celebrate. This is the time devotees all across the world converge in Shirdi to seek Saibaba's blessings. There is also Vyasa Puja that is held during Guru Purnima, in honor of Ved Vyasa who wrote the epic Mahabharata.

Shirdi Vijayadashmi (Dussehra)
Vijayadashmi is a big festival in Shirdi, venerated as a holy day when Shri Saibaba left his mortal body for heavenly abode. The festival is also celebrated as Shri Sai Punyathithi in Shirdi attracting great number of devotees from all over the world. Various religious activities are arranged Great number of people flock to Shirdi during this Festival. During this festival 'Brahman Bhojan' (Priests meal) is arranged with Dakashina (Donation to Guru). This year the festival is celebrated from 20th to 23rd October.

Om Sai Ram

Shirdi Sai baba - Biography

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Shri Saibaba of Shirdi lived between 1838 and 1918, whose real name, birthplace and date of birth are unknown. An Indian spiritual guru and a fakir that transcended the barriers of religions, Saibaba of Shirdi was regarded with great reverence by both Hindu and Muslim followers. He lived in a mosque and after death his body was cremated in a temple.

His philosophy ingrained 'Shraddha' meaning faith and 'Saburi' meaning compassion. According to him Shraddha and Saburi were the supreme attributes to reach the state of godliness.

It is believed that at a tender age of 16 yrs Shri Saibaba arrived at the village of Shirdi in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra and remained their till his death. He found shelter in Khandoba temple, where a villager Mahalsapathi in the temple addressed him as Sai or Saint.

Saibaba of Shirdi lived an extremely simple and austere life, sleeping on the floor of temple and later taking a ruined mosque as his shelter. With his arrival to Shirdi, in no time he began exhibiting a hypnotic attraction among people as they began flocking to him. He is attributed many miracles doing things that were beyond a mortal's power. He never discouraged these attributes and soon his fame spread like wild fire. Many pilgrims came seeking his blessings. Such was his hypnotism that even the mundane of his activities attracted large crowds.

Popular among both Hindus and Muslims, Shri Saibaba became a great building force between the two disparate communities. He regularly recited Hindu and Muslim prayers. His Hindu followers considered him to be an avatar or reincarnation of Shiva and Dattatreya. Sai Baba did not leave any written works. All his teachings were oral and catchy. His sayings were short, crisp and in layman language with which the common mass could easily associate.

Saibaba encouraged charity and said, "Unless there is some relationship or connection, nobody goes anywhere. If any men or creatures come to you, do not discourteously drive them away, but receive them well and treat them with due respect."

Shri Sai Baba of Shirdi was unique in the sense that he lived his message through the essence of his being. He lived among the common people adorning a torn kafni (long robe), sleeping over a mat while using brick as his headrest and got his food by begging. Such was his smile that radiated a mystical charisma and deep seated inward look that hypnotized the people who visited him.

His most concise message for one and all alike was "Why fear when I am here".
Saibaba said that he was a slave in the service of those who loved him. He was ever living to help those who turn to him and that he has to take care of his children day and night.

Saibaba's mission was to restore belief in god and according to him, "I give people what they want in the hope that they will begin to want what I want to give them (knowledge of the Ultimate)." He then taught values of total surrender to the Almighty Master (ALLAH MALIK EK- The only ONE) and experiences his grace.

Today, Shri Saibaba has millions of devotees in India and abroad. Shirdi, the obscure village in Maharashtra has become a pilgrimage destination much as Bethlehem, Jerusalem or Varanasi. With over 25,000 pilgrims thronging in here each day the number of pilgrims climb to over a hundred thousand on holidays and festival days. There are over 2,000 major Sai temples in different parts of India and 150 abroad in places as far-flung as Canada and Kenya, Singapore and England.

OM SAI RAM

Sai Baba's Belongings

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Chulla
Chulla is used by Baba for preparing food (prasad) and later distributing to gathering of devotees.

Kolamba
A stone pot which Baba used to place collected (Bhiksha). The food placed at an open place near Masjid was eaten by insects, birds and animals like dogs, cats, pigs.The remainder used to be eaten by Baba.

Water-Pot

Used for storing water to be drunk by all the thirsty (Pan-Pot).

Jata

Jata (Hand mill) used for grinding wheat implying that the seed of Karma when crushed and transformed into flour destroys the consequences of all good and evil deeds.

Udi Stand and Kathada (railing)

Baba used to put udi in Udi Stand and give udi to devotees from this railing."

Baba’s bathing stone

On this stone Baba used to take bath in the morning.

Udi stone and Ota (platform)

For burning essence sticks whose fragrance was pleasant for creating a purified scented atmosphere. Baba used to sit on the platform on which udi stand was fixed.

Two copper pots

Used by Baba to cook khichadi or sweet pulav as his Prasad.

Satka (stick)

The thick stick used by Baba to drive away evil for protecting his devotees facing calamities.

Important places in Shirdi

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Samadhi Mandir

Samadhi Mandir of Shri Sai Baba was actually owned by a millionaire from Nagpur, a famous Sai devotee Shreemant Gopalrao. Gopalrao wanted to keep an idol of Murlidhar here. However, Baba himself became Murlidhar and the Mandir became the Samadhi Mandir of Baba.

The Mandir is built with stones and Baba's Samadhi is built with white marble stones. A railing is built in marble around the Samadhi and is full of ornamental decorations. In front of the Samadhi are two silver pillars full of decorative designs. Just behind the Samadhi is Sai Baba's marvelous statue made of Italian marble which shows him seated on a throne. This idol was made by late Balaji Vasant.

This statue was installed on 7th October 1954. Above the statue is an open, silver umbrella. The front of the Mandir has an assembly hall where about 600 devotees can be accomadated. Here is the show-case where various things handled by Baba are kept. On the first floor of the Mandir are pictures depicting the life of Baba.

The routine of the temple starts at 5 o'clock in the morning with Bhoopali, a morning song, and closes at 10 o'clock in the night after Shejarati is sung. Only on three occasions the temple is kept open overnight .ie. on Guru purnima, Dusshera, and Ramnavami. Every Thursday and on each fesitival, a Palki with Baba's photo is taken out from the temple.

Dwarkamai

Shri Sai Baba came to Shridhi with a marriage procession. He stayed at Dwarkamai till the very end of his life. Dwarkamai is situated on the right side of the entrance of Samadhi Mandir. Here he solved problems of the people, cured their sickness and worries. Before Baba's arrival in Shridi, Dwarkamai was an old mosque in a dilapidated condition. Baba turned it into Dwarkamai and proved that God is one.

The first level of Dwarkamai has a portrait of Baba and a big stone on which Baba used to sit. This level has two rooms. One contains the chariot and the second a palki. Just in front of the room where the chariot is kept is a small temple. A saffron flag flies over it.

The second level of Dwarkamai has a square stool made of stone, which Baba used for taking a bath. The main attraction of this place is the oil painting of Shri Sai Baba sitting in a carved wooden shrine. This level also has the grinding stone and the wooden vessel called Kolamba in which Baba used to keep the Bhiksha brought from the village.

Gurusthan

Sai Baba first came to Shridi in the form of Bal Yogi - a child ascetic. He was first spotted seated under a Neem tree. This place came to be known as Gurusthan. The renovation of Gurusthan was made on 30th September, 1941. The present temple was built after this period. There is a small shrine in Gurusthan. On a elevated platform of this shrine a big portrait of Baba is placed. On the side is a marble statue of Baba. In front of the portrait is a Shivling and the Nandi. Photos of twelve Jyotirlingas are kept in the temple. The branches of the neem tree have come out through the roof of the temple.

At a short distance lies Baba's chavadi. Baba used to sleep here every alternate day. The Chavadi is divided into two parts. One part of the Chavadi has a large portrait of Baba along with a wooden bed and a white chair belonging to him.

There is a cottage of Abdul Baba, an ardent devotee of Shri Sai Baba, in front of the Chavadi. The Lendi Bagh was looked after by Abdul Baba. There are photos and various things which were handled by Sai Baba and Abdul Baba in the cottage.

There is a Maruti Mandir located at some distance from the cottage of Abdul Baba. This mandir was visited by Baba for the sat-sang with Devidas, a Balyogi, who lived at the Mandir ten to twelve years before Baba arrived.

There are also temples of village deities named Shani, Ganapati, and Shankar to be visited.

Lendi Bagh

At some distance from Gurusthan there is the Lendi Bagh. This Bagh was made and watered daily by Baba himself. It got its name from a Nalla (a drain) which used to previously flow there. Baba used to come here every morning and afternoon and take rest under a Neem tree. Baba dug a pit, 2 feet deep, under the Neem tree and kept a Deep lit in that pit. One octangular Deepgriha called Nanda Deep has been built in marble stone in memory of this place. It constantly burns in a glass box. On one side of the Deepgriha is a Peepal tree and on the other side is a Neem tree.

Some distance away is a Datta Mandir below an Audumbar tree. In the Mandir there is a statue of Datta built in marble stone. The statue of Datta was installed on 6th December, 1976. Just behind the Datta Mandir is a Samadhi of the horse, Shyamsundar which belonged to Baba and which used to bow to him.

Lendi Bagh also has a well dug by Baba with the cooperation of his devotees.

At the entrance of the Bagh are the Samadhi's of ardent Sai devotees Tatya Kote Patil, Bhau Maharaj Kumbhar, Nanavalli and Abdul Baba.

Khandoba Mandir

This temple is situated on the main road. In front of this temple Baba was welcomed by Poojari Mhalsapati, of this temple, saying "Aao Sai", when Baba stepped in Shridi. In this temple there are icons of Khandoba, Banai and Mhalsai.

Khandoba Temple

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Khandoba temple holds special place in Shirdi, since this was the site which saw the coming of Sai baba in his tender years dressed in kaafni. It is believed that when this young man, with flowing beards and sparkling eyes, approached the temple premises as one of the guest of a wedding party, the temple priest Mhalsapati greeted him as 'Sai'. This name led to the appellation and evolution of one of the most admired spiritual gurus of India.

Earlier the temple lay on the periphery of the village and Khandoba was the tutelary deity of the Mahalsapati family. Peaceful and secluded ambience of the temple impressed Sai baba. At the entrance to the temple is a large banyan tree which is mentioned in the 'Shri Sai Satcharitra' as the place where the bullock cart halted. It is now commemorated with a small shrine and 'padukas' or footwear of Sai baba lay at its base.

Baba was refused to enter in Khandoba Temple
At first Mahalsapathy, a priest at the Khandoba Temple in Shirdi, did not allow the young boy who looked like a Muslim fakir, inside the temple. But he was also the one to first realise the god is there inside this young boy and address him as "Sai." When baba realised him about this then he felt down on Baba's feet and asking for forgiveness. As usual Baba forgive him but explained him that there is no difference in caste or religion. God is for everyone and as a priest he should preach others about this and should not stop anyone to enter in the Temple. Mahalsapathy promised baba that he will never do this in his entire life. From that date all the true followers or devotees of Sai Baba started believing in one religion that is MANKIND. Om Sai Ram.

Shani Temple near Shirdi Temple

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Shinganapur is a village situated at a distance of 70 kms from Shirdi, 6 kms from Ghodegaon on Aurangabad Ahmedanagar road in Maharashtra. It is 84 kms from Aurangabad and 35 kms from Ahmednagar. From Ghodegaon, there is a motorable tar road leading to the Shri Shaneshwar and is open in all the seasons. The population of this village is about 3000.

State Transport buses regularly go to Shinganapur from Ahmednagar, Aurangabad and Shirdi. Devotees who visit Shirdi should visit Shani Temple to see that how people still believe in each other by not building any door or window in their homes. They don't put any locks to safe their valuable ornaments or jewelleries. In this village you can see the trust of one person to another person by Shani's blessings. It surprises every one who comes to this village from all around the world so I would suggest to all devotees not to miss this chance and visit Shani Temple when they go to Shridi. Some people believe that this Shani Temple had been built by Sai's consent and blessings. If that's true then this is another reason for true believers of Sai Baba to go and see this Temple. It's just an hour drive from Shirdi. If you are going to Shirdi then hope Baba and Shani Dev will make your journey pleasant and joyful.

OM SAI RAM and JAI SHANICHARYA NAMAH

A Sai Miracle - Revive the dead

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Once Sai Baba performed a miracle before which all other super natural powers pale into insignificance. This was to revive the dead. The daughter of the maternal aunt of Vasudeo Sitaram Ratanjanakar, who had come to Shirdi, had this experience. The daughter had developed Tuberculosis. As treatment of doctors had proved ineffective, she was being given only udi of Sai Baba as medicine. She also began saying that unless she had the darshan of Sai Baba, she would not get well. Though the girl's condition was delicate, Ratanjanakar brought her to Shirdi and took her for Sai Baba's darshan. Baba let off a volley of abuses and said, "Let her lie on the kambal (coarse blanket) and keep her on water." Accordingly, she was given only water for seven days and on the eighth day the girl died in the morning when it was time for Sai Baba to wake up. That morning Sai Baba was in Chavadi but he did not get up at the usual time. It was eight 0'clock and yet Sai Baba was asleep! It was the first time in the history of Shirdi for Sai Baba to wake up so late. People began attending to the arrangements for the funeral of the girl. The girl's mother and Ratanjanakar's mother were weeping and other devotees were trying to pacify them. Just then the girl made some movement, yawned and looked around bewildered. All were gladdened on seeing this. Then the girl narrated the following account: A dark man was forcibly taking her away when she called out to Sai Baba. Immediately Sai Baba belabored the man with his staff, rescued her and took her to Chavadi. The girl had not seen Chavadi but she described it vividly. While all this was happening in Dikshit wada where Ratanjanakars were staying, people were discussing animatedly why Sai Baba was still asleep. Suddenly, Sai Baba got up in Chavadi, shouting loudly, and striking his staff on the ground, ran in the direction of Dikshit wada. There was excitement all around, and the hearts of the bhakthas (devotees) were filled with joy and wonder at the miracle Sai Baba performed in this mortal world.

Satchidanand Sadguru Sainath Maharaj Ki Jai.

Shirdi Temple Daily Schedule

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Here is the daily schedule at Sai Temple at Shirdi. It starts early in the morning that continues till late in night. It includes various rituals and rites that go into invoking Sai Baba, and the congregation of devotees who seek the blessings of Shri SaiBaba. Dwarkamai, Gurusthan and Chavdi get open for the devotees at 4.30am and the Samdhi Mandir opens at 5am. With this temple is ready with prays and other rituals invoking Sai Baba of Shirdi. At 9pm Chavadi and Gurusthan close. At 9.45pm the upper part of Dwarkamai closes. And finally at 10.45pm the Samadhi temple is closed till the next day.

Daily Schedule of Shirdi
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4:30 AM
Dwarkamai, Gurusthan, Chavadi open
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5:00 AM
Mandir opens, Bhupali, Abhishekam at Gurusthan
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5:15 AM
Kakad Arati, Naivedyam of butter and sugar to Baba in Samadhi Mandir, Oil offered to the lamps in Dwarkamai
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5:40 AM
Bhajan in Saibaba Mandir
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6:00 AM
Mangal Snaan (washing) of Statue and Samadhi in Samadhi Mandir
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7:00 AM
Darshan begins in Samadhi Mandir
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9:00 AM
Naivedyam in Samadhi Mandir and Dwarkamai
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8:00 -10:30 AM
Satyanarayana Pooja
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11:30 AM
Dhuni Pooja with rice and ghee in Dwarkamai
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12:00 noon
Mid day Arati
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12:30 PM
Naivedyam in Samadhi Mandir, Dwarkamai and Gurusthan
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4:00 PM
Pothi (Devotional reading/Study) in Samadhi Mandir Sunset: Dhoop (evening) Arati
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6:30 PM
Naivedyam in Samadhi Mandir, Dwarkamai and Gurusthan
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8:00 - 9:00 PM
Devotional Songs in Samadhi Mandir and other Cultural Programs (if any)
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9:00 PM
Chavadi and Gurusthan close
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9:30 PM
In Dwarkamai water is given to Baba, a mosquito net is hung and the hanging lamp is lit
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9:45 PM
Dwarkamai (the upper part) closes
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10:00 PM
Shej (night) Arati, after this , a shawl is wrapped around the statue in the Samadhi Mandir, a Rudraksha mala is put around baba's neck, Mosquito net is hung, and a glass of water kept there
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10:45 PM
Samadhi Mandir closes after night Arati
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Miracles of Sai Baba

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Sai Baba of Shirdi is an epitome of spiritual perfection and has been the guiding source for the mankind leading to salvation. As a spiritual guru and savior Shri Saibaba was no ordinary fakir but an avatar of high order. This was evident through his miracles and sayings that exhibited his purpose and intention for which he had come. He would often say, "My Leela is inscrutable". Saibaba's Leela's (miracles) were plenty and varied; here are a few of the miracles of Shirdi Saibaba, for those who are interested in his philosophies.

Baba's Leelas (Miracles)

Lighting Lamps with Water
This is among the earliest evidences of Saibaba's miracles. Baba was fond of lighting earthenware lamps in his masjid and other temples. For this he needed oil, which he got from the grocers of Shirdi, as small donations. But there came a time when the grocers got tired of giving him oil for free. And so they refused him any oil saying they had no fresh stocks. Baba didn't say a word and returned to his masjid. But the masjid was not to remain in dark, as Sai Baba lit his earthenware lamps pouring water instead, which burnt deep into the midnight. Such was the miraculous power of Saibaba who lit fire out of water! When grocers came to know about it they rushed to him with apologies. Sai Baba pardoned them, but he warned them never to lie again. "You could have refused to give me the oil, but did you have to say that you didn't have fresh stocks?" he admonished them. But he had made his point.

Premonition of Burning Fields
Once, harvesting in Shirdi had been completed and the foodgrains of the entire village had been stored in a yard. Blistering summer was ferocious. One afternoon Saibaba summoned Kondaji Sutar and asked him to better rush to his field as it was on fire. Fear struck Kondaji ran to his field but there was not a trace of smoke. He got back and said so to Saibaba. Unfazed Baba asked him to look again and as the luck would have it, a part of corn was indeed afire and smoke was beginning to billow from it. With strong wind fanning the fire, Kondaji became jittery and asked Saibaba to do something. At this Baba walked to the yard and sprinkled some water and the fire immediately got extinguished.

Stopping the Rain
There goes a story that one Rao Bahadur Moreshwar Pradhan s wife had come for Sai Baba's darshan. As the couple was about to leave, it began to rain heavily with thunder and lightening. Seeing the Pradhan couple in trouble, Saibaba invoked the God and asked the rain to calm down, which surely did and the Pradhan were able to reach their destination safely.

Raising the Water Level in Well
When Sai Baba first came to Shirdi it had of no basic facilities. There was a well put only in name, with no natural spring water. Villagers had tough time fetching water from a distance. When the villagers were to celebrate Baba's birthday on Ramnavami, there was obviously crisis of water in the region. But Saibaba with his miracles had solution for this problem as well. He showered some leaves into the well and lo and behold the level of water rose fulfilling the dire wish of the villagers.

Saving a Child from Drowning
Once a 3-year-old daughter of a poor man named Babu Kirwandikar had fallen into a well and got drowned. When the villagers rushed to the well, they found to their utter disbelief that the child was suspended in midair as if some invisible hand was holding her. This again was one of the many miracles of Saibaba that saved people from distress.

Flow of Godavari (river) from Baba's Feet
As recounted by Das Ganu, one of the disciples of Shri Saibaba, once he sought permission from Baba to visit a place called Singba on the banks of Godavari to have a holy bath. Saibaba refused and said what was the use of going that distance when Godavari was right under his feet. Das was puzzled. Realizing the doubt in Das's mind Saibaba asked him to come closer and hold the hollow of his palms at Baba's feet. As soon as he did so water flowed freely out of the toes of the master's feet and filled the hollow of Das Ganu's palms in no time. His joy knew no limits. He sprinkled the water on his head and his body and distributed some more among the assembled devotees as tirtha (holy water).

Heritage of Shridi Sai Baba

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Shri Sai baba is among the most influential spiritual gurus of India, who lived at a nondescript village of Shirdi in the state of Maharashtra. With his miraculous powers and captivating teachings he rules the heart of millions of his devotees, whose number is ever growing with each passing day.

He is also among the most recognizable gurus whose image can be found throughout India, sometimes simply as a fashion statement or kept along as accessories. Worn as pendants and kept in lockets Saibaba makes his presence in all corners of India. He lived in the cusp of two centuries i.e., between 1838 and 1918. During this time Shri Saibaba made a great impact on the psyche of the people coming under his influence. With his simple and trite philosophy combined with his clairvoyant prowess, Saibaba's legacy is still on among his ever growing number of followers.

Today, many religious teachers, groups and organizations promote his teachings and devotion to Sai. Shri Saibaba Sansthan Trust is the most prominent promoter of Saibaba's legacy all across the world. The trust also takes care of the shrines and temples in Shirdi. All-India Sai Samaj, founded by B.V. Narasimha Swamiji, publishes books on Sai Baba as well as administrates the temples of Sai Baba built all over India.

There are a great number of followers of Sai Baba, who have achieved fame as spiritual figures. Among the most popular of such gurus are Upasni Maharaj of Sakori and Meher Baba of Ahmednagar. There have been at least three gurus and two youngsters, who have claimed to be the reincarnation of Shirdi Sai Baba. Among them the most famous is Sathya Sai Baba who lives at Puttaparthi Andhra Pradesh, India. Sathya Sai Baba has immense popularity across the world with devotees thronging from all across the world.

Sri Sai Baba of Shirdi's legacy is also lived through the multitude of literature that has been written on him. Sai literature has the widest possible dimension covering almost every aspect of Saibaba. Scholars across the world have studied the life and philosophy of Saibaba and tried to understand and decipher the quintessential Sai Baba of Shirdi.

Sai temples that are built all over the world are also carrying the legacy of Shri Saibaba of Shirdi. With over 2,000 major Sai temples in different parts of India and 150 abroad, the conviction and faith on Sai Baba are lived and professed enriching the lifestyle of his devotees and mankind at large.

Sai Baba's Teachings

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Sai Baba of Shirdi is the epitome of reverence a guiding force who generates supreme faith and confidence among his devotees looking for salvation and in quest of coming out of the drudgery of living. As a divine mother he is saturated with love for those who seek him. With his mission of making people about the divine consciousness and transcending the limits of mortal body, his teachings are guiding his devotees to the path of salvation. People are blessed who follow his teachings.

Among the teachings of Sai Baba of Shirdi there are the cardinal principles of Sai Path called 'Shraddha' (faith) and 'Saburi' (patience). Sai Baba looks for these two qualities in his devotees. Here are the teachings and philosophies of Sai Baba of Shirdi.

Shraddha
'Shraddha' is a Sanskrit word, which roughly means faith with love and reverence. Such faith or trust is generated out of conviction, which may not be the result of any rational belief or intellectual wisdom, but a spiritual inspiration. According to Sai Baba of Shirdi, steadfast love in God is the gateway to eternity. Baba's teaching, both direct and indirect explicate the significance of 'Shraddha'. Baba reiterates the spiritual guidance of Shri Krishna to Arjun - "Whosoever offer to me with love or devotion, a leaf, a flower, a fruit or water, that offering of pure love is readily accepted by me".

Saburi
'Saburi'; means patience and perseverance. Saburi is a quality needed throughout the path to reach the goal. This quality must be ingrained in a seeker from day one, least he looses his stride and leaves the path half way.

Purity
For Sai Baba it was not the purity of the body but inner purity that mattered. No amount of physical and external cleansing would serve any purpose if the man remained impure in mind and heart. Therefore, Baba cautioned his devotees not to make austerity as an end itself, lest they should indulge in physical mortification.

Compassion
Himself an epitome of compassion and love, Sai Baba taught compassion among his disciples. Baba often told his devotees, 'Never turn away anybody from your door, be it a human being or animal'.

Complete Surrender to the Guru
Sai Baba put Guru on a high pedestal of reverence. For him Guru was the profound base of the path of devotion. Pointing to his physical frame, "This body is my house. I am not here. My Guru (Master) has taken me away". He asked for complete surrender to the 'Guru'.

Sai Baba's Teachings through 'Udi' and 'Dakshina'

Udi
Udi or the sacred ash was produced from the perpetual fire called 'dhuni' lit by Sai Baba in Dwarkamai at Shirdi. Explaining the meaning of life He would refer to Udi and taught that like Udi all the visible phenomena in the world are transient. Through this example Sai Baba wished to make his devotees understand the sense of discrimination between the unreal and the real. Udi taught the devotees discrimination or vivek.

Dakshina
Sai Baba would demand 'Dakshina' or alms from those who visited him. This explained the sense of non-attachment to worldly things. Hence Dakshina taught the devotees non-attachment or Vairagya

Greatness of Udi

2008-02-03T09:58:00.000+00:00

Doctor's Nephew

At Malegaon (District Nasik) there lived a doctor (qualified and degree-holder). His nephew suffered from an incurable disease - Tubercular bone-abscess. The doctor himself and his brothers, the medical practitioners, tried all sorts of remedies and even an operation. There was no relief and there was no end to the little boy's suffering. Friends and relations advised the parents of the boy to seek divine aid and recommended them to try Sai Baba, who was known to have cured such incurable cases by his mere glance. The parents, therefore, came to Shirdi. They prostrated themselves before Baba, placed the boy before him and pleaded humbly and respectfully, and implored him to save their son. The merciful Baba comforted them saying "Those who resort to this Masjid shall never suffer anything in this life and to the end of time. Be now care-free. Apply Udi on the abscess and within one week he will recover. Believe in God. This is no Masjid, but Dwarkamai. He who steps here will soon get health, happiness and his sufferings will come to an end". The boy was made to sit before Baba, who moved his hands on the affected part and cast his loving glances on him. The patient was pleased and with the application of the Udi, he began to recover, and was all right after some days. The parents then left Shirdi with their son, thanking Baba for the cure, which was effected by Udi and Baba's gracious looks.

After knowing this, the doctor, the uncle of the boy became wonder-struck and desired to see Baba while he was on his way to Bombay for some business; but at Malegaon and Manmad somebody spoke to him against Baba and poisoned his ears. He therefore, dropped the idea of visiting Shirdi and went to Bombay direct. He wanted to spend the rest of his leave at Alibag, but at Bombay he heard three successive nights, a voice crying out,"Still you disbelieve me?". Then the doctor changed his mind and resolved to go to Shirdi. He had to attend in Bombay to a case of infectious fever, which showed no signs of abatement soon. So he thought that his Shirdi trip would be postponed. He however proposed a test in his mind and said,"If the patient gets all right today, I start for Shirdi tomorrow." The wonder is that exactly at the time when the determination was taken, the fever began to abate and the temperature became normal. Then he went to Shirdi as per his determination, took Baba's darshan and prostrated himself before him. Baba gave him such experiences that he became his devotee. He stayed there for four days and returned home with Baba's Udi and blessings. Within a fortnight he was transferred on promotion to Bijapur. His nephew's case gave him an opportunity for seeing Baba and this visit engendered in him a neverfailing love for the Saint's feet. Om Sai Ram

Dr. Pillay

Dr. Pillay was an intimate Bhakta (devotee) of Baba. He was much liked by Baba, who always called him Bhau (brother). Baba talked with him off and on and consulted him in all matters and wanted him always at his side. This Pillay suffered once very badly from guinea-worms. He said to Kakasaheb Dixit, "The pain is most excruciating and unbearable. I prefer death to it. This pain, I know, is for repaying past Karma, but go to Baba and tell him to stop the pain and transfer the working of my past Karma to ten future births of mine." Mr. Dixit went to Baba and told him his request. Then Baba, being moved by his request, said to Dixit, "Tell him to be fearless. Why should he suffer for ten births? In ten days he can work out the sufferings and consequences of his past Karma. While I am here to give him temporal and spiritual welfare, why should he pray for death? Bring him here on somebody's back and let us work and finish his sufferings once for all".

The doctor was brought in that condition and was seated on Baba's right side,where Fakir Baba always sat. Baba gave him his bolster and said, "Lie calmly here and be at ease. The true remedy is, that the result of past actions has to be suffered and got over. Our Karma is the cause of our happiness and sorrow; therefore put up with whatever comes to you. Allah (God) is the sole dispenser and protector, always think of him. He will take care of you. Surrender to his feet with body, mind, wealth and speech, i.e. completely and then see what he does." Dr. Pillay said in return that Nanasaheb had put a bandage over the leg, but he found no relief. "Nana is a fool" replied Baba. "Take off that bandage or else you will die. Now a crow will come and peck you, and then you will recover."

While this conversation was going on, one Abdul, who always cleaned the Masjid and trimmed the lamps, turned up. While he was attending to his work of training, his foot accidentally fell upon the stretched leg of Dr. Pillay. The leg was already swollen and when Abdul's foot fell upon it and pressed it, all the seven guinea-worms were squeezed out at once. The pain was unbearable and Dr. Pillay bawled out loudly. After some time, he calmed down and began to sing and cry alternately. Then Pillay enquired when the crow was coming and peeking. Baba said, "Did you not see the crow? He won't come again. Abdul was the crow. Now go and rest yourself in the Wada and you will be soon alright."

By application of the Udi and by taking it in the stomach with water, and without taking any other treatment or medicine, the disease was completely cured in ten days as predicted by Baba. Sachidanand Sai Ram Maharaj Ki Jai

Shama's Sister-in-law

Shama's younger brother Bapaji was staying near Sawool well. Once his wife was attacked with Bubonic plague. She had high fever and two buboes in her groins. Bapaji rushed to Shama at Shirdi and asked him to come and help. Shama was frightened, but according to his wont, he went to Baba, prostrated himself before him, invoked his aid, and requested him to cure the case. He also asked his permission to go to his brother's house. Then Baba said, "Don't go there at this late hour (night), send her Udi. Why care for the fever and buboes? God is our father and master; she will be alright easily. Do not go now, but go there in the morning and return immediately."

Shama had full faith in Baba's Udi. It was sent with Bapaji. It was applied on the buboes and some of it was mixed with water and was given to the patient for drinking. No sooner was it taken in, than perspiration set in profusely, the fever abated and the patient had a good sleep. Next morning Bapaji was surprised to see his wife alright and refreshed with no fever and buboes. When Shama went there next morning with Baba's permission he was also surprised to see her at the hearth and preparing tea. On questioning his brother, he learnt that Baba's Udi cured her completely in one night. Then Shama realized the significance of Baba's words. "Go there in the morning and return immediately.

After taking tea, Sharma returned and after saluting Baba said,"Deva, what is this play of yours? You first raise a storm and make us restless and then calm it down and ease us". Baba replied "You see mysterious is the path of action. Though I do nothing, they hold me responsible for the actions which take place on account of Adrista (destiny). I am only their witness. The Lord is the sole doer and inspirer. He is also most merciful. Neither I am God nor Lord. I am his obedient servant and remember him often. He, who casts aside his egoism, thanks him and he, who trusts him entirely, will have his shackles removed and will obtain liberation". Sai Ram Tere Hazaro Haath

Irani's Daughter

Now read the experience of an Irani gentleman. His young daughter got fits every hour. When the convulsion came she lost her power of speech, her limbs got shrunk and contracted and she fell down senseless. No remedy gave her any relief. Some friend recommended Baba's Udi to her father and asked him to get it from Kakasaheb Dixit at Vile Parle (suburb of Bombay). Then the Irani gentleman got the Udi and gave it mixed with water to his daughter daily for drinking. In the beginning the convulsions, which were coming on hourly, came every seven hours and after a few days the daughter recovered completely. Sai Ram Bhagwan Ki Jai

Harda Gentleman

An old gentleman of Harda (C.P) was suffering from a stone in his bladder. Such stones are generally removed by surgical operations and people recomended him to undergo one. He was old and weak, lacked strength of mind and could not think of submitting himself to surgical treatment. His suffering was soon to end in another way. The Inamdar (City Officer) of that town happened to come there at this time. He was a devotee of Baba and had always a stock of Udi with him. On the recommendation of friends, his son got some Udi from and mixing it with water, gave it to his old father to drink. Within five minutes the Udi was assimilated, the stone was dissolved and came out through his urine and old man was soon relieved.

"Sai Kripa on me as well" Believe it or not but this had happened to me as well. I was also suffering from terrible pain because of the kidney stone but as soon as I had drunk the mixture of Udi my pain was gone like that it wasn't there before and by doctor's report I got to know that it has been gone forever. Mere Sai Ram Bhagawan Ki Sadhai Jai

Bombay Lady

A woman of the Kayastha Prabhu caste in Bombay always suffered terrible pain at her delivery. She was very much frightened each time she became pregnant and did not know what to do. Shri Rama-Maruti of Kalyan, who was a devotee of Baba advised her husband to take her to Shirdi for a painless delivery. When she next became pregnant, both husband and wife came to Shirdi, stayed there for some months and worshipped Baba and got all the benefit of his company. After some time the hour of delivery came and as usual there was obstruction in the passage from the womb. She began to suffer labour pains, did not know what to do, but began to pray to Baba for relief. In the meantime, some neighbouring women turned up and after invoking Baba's aid, gave her Udi-mixture to drink. In five minutes, the woman delivered safely and painlessly. The issue was still-born according to its fate; but the mother who got rid of the anxiety and pain, thanked Baba for the safe delivery and ever remained grateful to him. Jai Sai Ram

Dwarkamai

2008-02-01T23:47:00.001+00:00

Baba lived here for so many years (and I believe that Baba still lives in Dwaramai only and fullfil everyone's dream) in a ramshackle mosque, which he always referred as ‘Dwarkamai’, the Mother of Mercy. Dwarkamai is open to all irrespective of caste, creed or religion. It is the Holy landmark of all religions in the world. To the Muslims he was a Fakir living in a mosque observing the disciplines of Islam, well versed in Islamic scriptures uttering ‘Allah Malik’ (God is the Master).

To Hindus he called himself a pure Brahmin, bore the caste marks of a Hindu, well versed in Hindu scriptures. To the Parsees he was the sacred fire worshipper. His abound love and compassion was Christ like. His life was a living manifestation of the eight-fold path of Buddha.

Baba preached the universal faith from this mosque. Following this faith the Muslims, Hindus, Parsees, Christians, Sikhs and Buddhists unequivocally surrender to him. Sai Baba’s appeal lies in the fact that he was a perfect model of the harmony of all religions. He guided all the seekers along the lines of their own religion.

The religious harmony was illustrated in the fact that in this mosque only the Hindu festival ‘Ram Navmi’ (Birthday celebrations of Lord Ram) was celebrated with zest and fervour and the same day in the evening Sandal procession was taken out by Muslims, the tradition continues even today. His mosque contains the nimbar on western wall towards which Muslims turn for prayer and there are bells hanging from its ceiling like a Hindu place of worship.

It was a magnificent tribute to his luminous presence in this mosque that the most orthodox members of both communities prostrated themselves at his feet.

Few features of this mosque are -:

It is the place of Universal faith where all the religions have found their sanctity in Baba.
It eliminates or marginalizes the miseries of many millions who climb the steps of this mosque with faith.
Baba's Dwarkamai is curing many incurable diseases and all kinds of afflictions through Udi (sacred ash) collected from dhuni fire place, the perpetual sacred fire burning here.
Baba's presence has been found by so many true devotees in Dwarkamai. Dwarkamai listens everyone's prayers like a Mai (mother) and fulfil all their desires.

Power of Baba's Udi

2008-01-28T14:59:00.000+00:00

The Udi is not a ordinary ash. It is the ash from the dhuni which Baba had lit by his yogic power. Hence the Udi has all the powers of Baba. It has banished the agonies and cured incurable diseases of innumerable persons. Here are a few real instances.

A certain doctor's nephew had bone-cancer. The doctor tried all remedies, including surgical operation, but in vain. With acute pain, the boy cried pitiably. At last the doctor brought the boy to Baba and threw all burden on him. Daily Baba placed a blessing glance on the wound and applied Udi on it. Within a week, the boy was completely cured.

Another doctor had a guinea-worm in his leg, which was terribly swollen and caused intense pain. He approached Baba with a request to release him from his mortal coil and thus end his agony for good. Baba daily applied Udi to his leg and also administered it orally. One day, an attendant inadvertently stepped on the doctor's affected leg with the result that the wound burst open and the guinea-wom was driven out. The doctor was soon cured.

There are countless instances of this kind. But following deserves mentioning:-

Nanasaheb Chandorkar, one of the earliest devotees of Baba, was a mamlatdar at Jamner, about 24 miles from Jalgaon in Khandesh. One can go upto Jalgaon by railway and then take a tonga. Nanasabeb's daughter, Maina had come to Jamner for delivery. For forty-eight hours, she was in labour and her very life was in danger. Nanasaheb was appealing to Baba to come to her succour. Sai Baba as if 'heard' it in Shirdi. Ramgir, a resident bhakta, was then inspired to go to his village in Khandesh. He came to ask for Baba's permission. Baba said, "Yes. Start immediately. But first go to Nanasaheb at Jamner, givehim Udi and Arati, and then proceed home". Baba gave him a packet of Udi from the dhuni with his own hands and the Arati on a piece of paper to be recited at Maina's bedside. Ramgir took the two things, but, in a tone of anxiety, he asked, "Baba, I have only two rupees with me. With this much. I can barely go to Jalgaon. But how could I make a detour to Jamner and then to my place ?" "You need not to worry," Said Baba, "You only go to Jalgaon. Everything will be arranged thereafter."

With firm faith in Baba, Ramgir started. He had to pay Rs. 1-14-0 for railwav ticket and only two annas were left with him. About midnight the train reached Jalgaon and Ramgir got down. Just then a sepahi in Khaki uniform approached him and said "Sir, you are Ramgir from Shirdi, I hope". Ramgir said he was. "Then come along," said the sepahi, Nanasaheb has sent me with a tonga for you." Ramgir thought that as Baba had hinted he must have sent a word to Nanasaheb and asked him to make these arrangements. The sepahi gave him a few snacks, which he said, were sent bv Nanasaheb. Then the tonga started and by dawn, it arrived at Jamner. The sepahi, pointing to a distant 'building, said, "That is Nanasaheb's office." Ramgir alighted there to ease himself and went behind a bush. But as he came out, what did he find ? Nothing, no horses, no carriage, no sepahi. All had disappeared. Dumbfounded, he went to Nanasaheb's office and, obtaining Nanasabeb's address, went there. Saluting Nanasaheb, he said, "Baba has sent me here from Shirdi and has given you these things." A thrill went through Nanasaheb on hearing this. He said, 'Oh Baba, Baba! What should I say to you ? I called your name here and hearing my call in Shirdi, you at once ran here in the form of these things. A million pranams to you ! "

Nanasaheb applied the Udi to his daughter and put a little in her mouth too. Then he sat by her bedside, reciting the arati. And would you believe it ? In half an hour, Maina delivered safely. Ramgir was waiting outside. Nanasabeb came out and thanked him profoundly. Eagerly Ramgir asked, "Nana, your tonga brought me to Jamner all right. But then as I got down to ease myself, it suddenly vanished. Where is that tonga ?" "Which tonga ?" asked the puzzled Nana. "Your tonga which you had sent for me to Jalgaon Station. Your sepahi met me there, gave me your delicious snacks and brought me here with great speed."

With tears of gratitude, Nanasaheb said, "Ramgir, I had not the faintest idea that you were coming. So how could I have sent the tonga ? This is all no doubt done by Baba. How unbounded is your kripa, Oh mother Sai !"

Later, Nanasaheb himself related this whole incident to the people assembled at Shirdi. It therefore bears a stamp of authority.

Friends this is how our Sai Ma is, who takes care of all their kids.

Importance of Sai Satcharitra

2008-01-28T14:33:00.000+00:00

This is the first and foremost book based on the life-story of Shri Sai Baba, which was originally composed in Marathi verse form. The writing of the book started in the lifetime of Baba with his blessings.
The Hindi translation of this book is in simple Hindi language, which can be understood even by a common man.
The divine truth imparted by this book is even greater than the knowledge contained in the Vedas and Geeta, because all the characters and events in it are real and authentic as also recorded in details by many devotees.
Because of the expression in simple Hindi it is easy even for every one to comprehend it. Today there are very few people who can understand Sanskrit language properly and absorb the meaning and substance easily.
The spiritual essence contained in all the religious scriptures like Vedas, Geeta, Yoga Vashisht is found in the life-story of Shri Sainath.
The concepts on God and spirituality are explained in such a simple yet comprehensive manner in 'Shri Sai Satcharitra' that no additional book, or commentary etc. is required to understand it. It has a natural flow of which the readers starts feeling as if they had been closely associated with its events in their past life.
I may mention here that the glory of Shri Sai is spreading in the world, far and wide, in such an amazing way that detailed information at the web sites on Internet about Shri Sai and 'Shri Sai Satcharitra' is available for interested readers.
The foremost duty of a Sai devotee is therefore to read 'Shri Sai Satcharitra' and absorb it by heart if possible. The more they read this book, the more it will bring them closer to Baba and all their doubts and apprehensions will be cleared.
It also has been experienced that during crisis if any devotee is searching for an answer, if he randomly opens of 'Shri Sai Satcharitra' praying Baba sincerely and with faith his answer can be found in that open page.
Many people have got their desired benefits after reading 'Shri Sai Satcharitra' for a week in a parayana form.

About Shirdi

2008-01-26T23:20:00.001+00:00

Shirdi is a small town located in the state of Maharashtra in western India. The place is around 296 km (around 6 hours drive) from Mumbai. Sai Baba's shrine has been incorporated as one of the holy places in the world's map of pilgrimage. Places of Interest Samadhi Mandir of Shri Sai Baba was actually owned by a millionaire from Nagpur and a famous Sai devotee Shreemant Gopalrao. He wanted to keep an idol of Murlidhar here. However, according to the legends, Baba himself became Murlidhar and the temple became the Samadhi Mandir of Baba.

The Samadhi of Baba is built with white marble stones. The railings around it are full of ornamental decorations. The idol of Baba is a marvelous statue made up of Italian marble built by Late Balaji Vasant in 1954. The temple has an assembly hall for about 600 devotees. The assembly hall also houses a showcase having various items used by the sage. The first floor of the temple has the pictures depicting the life of the saint. The temple opens on 5 AM with morning prayers and close down at 10 PM with night prayers. Situated on the right side of the entrance of the Samadhi Mandir is Dwarkamai, a mosque. This was the place where the sage stayed until the end of his life. Main attraction of the site is the oil paintings of the sage. The place from where Sai Baba first came to Shirdi in the form of a Bal Yogi (child ascetic) is known as Gurusthan. A temple has been constructed on this site.

There is also a small shrine in Gurusthan. At a short distance lies Baba's Chavadi. Baba used to sleep here every alternate day. The Chavadi is divided into two parts. One part of the Chavadi has a large portrait of Baba along with a wooden bed and a white chair belonging to him. There is a cottage of Abdul Baba, an ardent devotee of Shri Sai Baba, in front of the Chavadi. Photos and various items that were handled by Sai Baba and Abdul Baba are there in the cottage. There is a Maruti Mandir located at some distance from the cottage of Abdul Baba. This mandir was visited by Baba for the sat-sang with Devidas, a Bal yogi, who lived at the Mandir ten to twelve years before Baba arrived. There are also temples of village deities named Shani, Ganapati, and Shankar that are worth visiting.

At some distance from Gurusthan, there is the Lendi Bagh. This garden was made and watered daily by Baba himself. It got its name from a nullah (a drain), which used to flow there. Baba used to come here every morning and afternoon and take rest under a neem tree. Baba dug a pit, 2 feet deep, under the neem tree and kept a deep (a lighting object) lit in that pit. An octagonal deepgriha (lighthouse) called Nanda Deep has been built in marble stone in memory of this place. It constantly burns in a glass box. On one side of the deepgriha is a pipal tree and on the other side is a neem tree.

Other sites to visit are Datta Mandir and Khandoba Mandir. Sites nearby situated around 5 km from Shirdi is Sakori. The place is home to the Upasini Maharaj. Shanisinghnapur is 70 km from Shirdi. A temple devoted to Shani is located here.

Fairs and festivals - The most important festivals and events that are celebrated in Shirdi are Guru Poornima, Dussehra, and Ram Navami. These are the only days when the Samadhi Mandir of Shirdi opens for the whole night. Every Thursday, a palakhi bearing a photograph of the sage is taken out from the temple.

Where to stay - Shirdi has accommodation available to every income group, starting from budget to high-end. STD facilities are available in most of the hotels.

What to eat - The administrative body of Shirdi temple runs a prasadalaya to provide lunch and dinner to the devotees. Nearly one thousand devotees can take Baba's prasad at the same time. The kitchen of the prasadalaya is equipped with modern cooking machineries and is free of pollution. Food-packets are available to the devotees from 8:00 in the morning to 12:00 noon. There is a canteen service available to the devotees day and night.

How to reach - Nearest airports are Mumbai (260 km), Pune (185 km), and Aurangabad (125 km). Flights for all the major cities in India and abroad can be taken from Mumbai. The nearest railway station is Manmad (60 km) on the central railway, which is connected to many parts of the country with express trains. Most of the trains touching Nasik Road railway station also touch Manmad. Shirdi has railway reservation office for trains from Manmad. Taxis and buses are easily available at Manmad railway station for transfer to Shirdi. Regular taxi service also operates between Manmad railway station and bus stand. State Transport Corporation and private operators run coaches to Shirdi from Mumbai.

First ever temple of Sai Baba

2008-01-26T12:42:00.000+00:00

Sri Shirdi Sai Baba has become a part of the mainstream of Indian spiritual and temporal life within a short period of attaining maha samadhi. We can now see Sai temples not only in the big cities but also in small towns and villages of India, and more and more temples are being built all over the world. The first ever Sai Baba's temple was built in 1916 at Bhivpuri (small town in India) which was before Baba took his maha samadhi.

Bhivpuri Road is a small railway station which comes before Karjat on the train route from Mumbai to Pune. If one gets out at this station and looks right towards the fields, a temple spire is clearly visible. This is the Sai temple at Bhivpuri. It is a short walk across the fields to the temple.

This temple has a very interesting history. The story behind its construction reveals the astonishing manner in which Baba pulls his devotees to him. It is unbelievable but nevertheless true that the founder of the temple, the late Sri Keshav Ramachandra Pradhan, was initially an atheist. Sri Pradhan was working for a Parsee gentleman of Mumbai as a pedhi (a collector of debts owed to his employer). He lived in Bhivpuri and would commute to Mumbai to work. In the course of his job he would frequently go to Manmad, Nasik and Kopergaon. Pradhan had a close friend who was a devotee of Sai Baba. He would often go to Shirdi and return after having darshan of (seeing) Sri Sai Baba. Once, Pradhan visited his friend when he was about to leave for Shirdi. He asked Pradhan to accompany him and to have Baba’s darshan. Pradhan, who had no belief in God, initially refused to go with him. Finally, however, he gave in to his friend’s persuasion and agreed to go, but not to set foot inside the mosque where Baba lived. His friend accepted the compromise and they set out for Shirdi together.

The friends reached Shirdi and stayed in the wada. As it was time for the noon arati, Pradhan’s friend went to the mosque but Pradhan stayed in the wada. The bell rang from the mosque for the arati and Pradhan could hear it from his room. The deep gongs of the bell stirred him as never before. He was enchanted by the sound and unknowingly started walking to the mosque from where this heavenly sound was issuing forth.

He reached the mosque and sat in a corner. Looking at Baba, he was immersed in a state of bliss. After the arati was over the other devotees took udhi from Baba and left the mosque. Pradhan was still in a state of bliss and was unaware of everything but Baba. Sai Baba then called Pradhan to draw near and asked him for dakshina. Pradhan had Rs 2500 in his pocket. This was the amount he had collected for his employer from the various debtors. He took out the entire cash from his pocket and, placing it all in Baba’s hands, returned to his room still in the same state of bliss. A little later, Pradhan came to realise that he had given the entire amount to Baba and was surprised that he could do such a thing with his employer’s money. His friend told him not to worry as Baba would take care to see that Pradhan would not get into any trouble because of this.

Pradhan started back via Kopergaon from Shirdi in a horse-cart. It was only after he reached Kopergaon that he realised that he had no money, even for the hire of the cart. He requested the cart man to take his ring, sell it and return the remaining cash after taking his fare. While this was going on a well-dressed gentleman, unknown to Pradhan, arrived. After inquiring about the matter he not only paid the cart man but also bought a ticket to Mumbai for Pradhan and left as mysteriously as he came.

Pradhan reached Bhivpuri. He did not know how he could face his employer and tell him that he had used all the money which he had collected. To gain time, he sent word to his employer that he was sick and would come to work once he had recovered. The employer sent word back granting leave till Pradhan was well enough to return to work. He also wanted to know why Pradhan had sent double the money he had collected and what he was to do with the excess? Pradhan saw Baba’s hand in this and was thrilled to the core of his being by the kindness shown to him by Baba. He was electrified that Baba had showered his grace on him to such an extent in the very first darshan. He became a staunch devotee of Baba and would often go to Shirdi to visit Baba and take his blessings. Pradhan would plead with Baba to come to Bhivpuri whenever he went to Shirdi.

Once, in 1916, Baba gave his statue to Pradhan and said, “Go to Bhivpuri. Build a temple for me there. Keep this statue in the temple and worship it. You need not come to Shirdi any more.” Pradhan returned to Bhivpuri but did not follow Baba’s instructions. When he next came to Shirdi Baba said, “When I have come to your house, why have you come here? Bhivpuri is your Shirdi. Go there and do as I told you.”

In a few days Pradhan built a small temple near his house at Bhivpuri and ceremoniously installed the statue of Baba; regular worship was started. This temple is located in a place which is green with trees and beautiful to the eye. In the silence of the night the sound of the temple doors opening would sometimes be heard. Baba’s form would be seen coming out of the temple and resting under a tree in the front yard. The sound of the temple doors closing would be heard again at three in the morning. All these leelas were experienced not only by Pradhan and his family but also by their guests who stayed overnight. Pradhan had no doubt that Bhivpuri was indeed his Shirdi and he became an even more ardent devotee of Baba. The temple was developed to include an inner chamber, a big hall in the forecourt, a verandah and guestrooms for the use of visiting devotees.

Sri V V Gupte, Pradhan’s son-in-law, took an active part in conducting the various affairs of the temple and helped further develop it. Sri Gupte had first visited Shirdi in 1936 and experienced bliss at the sight of Baba’s samadhi. He prayed fervently to Baba to make the temple at Bhivpuri as glorious and awesome as the Samadhi Mandir at Shirdi. Baba answered his prayers and the Bhivpuri temple became famous with more and more devotees visiting it.

Pradhan passed away in 1939 and responsibility for the temple fell on Gupte’s shoulders. He started an organization for running the temple called the “Sri Sadguru Sainathuni Seva Sanstha”. The rush of visitors increased and the existing facilities became insufficient. Funds were inadequate to do all that was necessary to meet the huge influx of devotees. Finally, Baba’s help was sought. A devotee called Narayan Purohit started the formal reading of Sai Baba’s life. On the fourth day Baba came to him in a dream and said, “Where is my dhuni? How can this be Shirdi without a dhuni? How can my temple be complete without a dhuni?”

As he had the dream twice, Purohit informed Gupte and it was decided forthwith to build a dhuni as instructed by Baba. Sri Valvalkar, the grandson of Sri Hemadpant (author of Sri Sai Satcharitra – Baba's life story and leelas), first lit the dhuni on the Ramanavami day of 1949 and since then Baba's devotees have been started increasing day by day (OM SAI RAM). Ramanavami and Baba’s samadhi festivals are celebrated here with great fervour and glory.

Shirdi Sai Baba's Videos

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Shirdi Sai Baba's Kakad Aarti

Sai Baba's Birth Story

2008-01-21T13:31:00.000+00:00

On account of the passage of time and circumstances, no one knew the exact dates of Baba's birth and passing. In this context, the mystery relating to Baba's birth should be noted. One devotee wrote a poem in which he offered his "salutations to the one born in Pathri, who lived in Dwarakamayi and who was the protector of devotees." There are some findings on Babaji’s birth but nobody knows whether they are true or just assumptions. Babaji’s birth is still a mystery. Following are some findings:-
In the former Nizam's [Maharaj] dominion, there was a remote village called Pathri. In that village there were a couple named Gangabhavadya and Devagiriamma. They were worshipers of Shiv and Parvathi. They had no offspring for a long time. They intensified their prayers. Gangabhavadya used to ply boats near the village for a living. One night, when it was raining heavily, Gangabhavadya left his house to take care of the boats, telling his wife that he would not be returning in the night. After the husband had an early meal and left, Devagiriamma ate and went to bed.
At 9 p.m. there was a knock at the door. Devagiriamma opened the door, wondering if her husband had returned. A very old man entered the house. He pleaded, "It is very cold outside. Please permit me, mother, to stay inside." As a pious woman, she allowed him to stay in the inside verandah and went in after bolting the inner door. She opened the door. The old man said, "I am feeling hungry; give me some food." Finding that there was no food, the woman mixed some flour with curd and gave it to him. Another knock sounded after some time. When she opened the door, the old man said, "My legs are aching, Mother, will you massage them?"
Devagiriamma went inside, sat in the prayer room and prayed, "O Mother Parvati! Why are you testing me like this? What should I do? Should I serve him or refuse?"
Going out of the house by the backdoor, she went in search of someone who could be engaged to render this service. No one was available. Again there was a knock by the old man. At the same time, a woman knocked at the backdoor. She said, "It appears you came to my house and sought some help? I was away at the time. Please let me know what service I should render you?"
Feeling happy that Goddess Parvathi herself had sent the woman in response to her prayers, Devagiriamma sent the newcomer to the verandah to serve the old man and closed the door. The old man and the new woman were none other than Parameswara (Shiva) and Parwathi, the Divine couple.
Parameswara told Parvathi, "Fulfill the cherished desires of this lady." Parwathi Iswara replied, "You are Supreme. Please shower your Grace on her yourself." Lord Shiva said, "I came to test her. You came in answer to her prayers. Hence you must bless her."
There was a knock at the door again. This time Devagiriamma promptly opened the door. Parvathi and Parameswara appeared before her in their divine form. Unable to contain her joy, Devagiriamma fell at their feet. Parvathi then blessed her, "I grant you a son to maintain the lineage and a daughter for kanyadan (a girl to be offered in marraige)." Devagiriamma fell at the feet of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva said, "I am immensely pleased with your devotion. I shall take birth as your third child." When Devagiriamma got up, the Divine couple had vanished. Feeling ecstatic by this experience, Devagiriamma eagerly awaited the return of her husband in the morning to relate to him the whole story.
When the husband came home in the morning she related to him all that had happened during the previous night. The husband said, "Devagiri! What is this fanciful tale! It is all a dream. Parvathi and Parameswara appearing before you and giving darshan! It is pure fantasy!" Gangabhavadya dismissed the whole episode as incredible and fanciful.
As the years passed, Devagiriamma became pregnant and a son was born. A year later a daughter was born. Gangabhavadya was now convinced that the birth of the two children was the result of the blessings conferred by Parvathi and Parameswara. He told his wife, "You had the good fortune (to be blessed by the Divine couple). I did not have that luck."
When Devagiriamma conceived again, Gangabhavadya began to feel an urge to give up hearth and home and go in search of the Divine couple. He announced to his wife that he was leaving for the forest to do penance. The devoted wife that she was, Devagiriamma decided to follow him, though she was in the ninth month of her pregnancy. After proceeding some distance, she developed labor pains. She delivered a boy. Wrapping the babe in a piece of cloth, she left the child by the roadside and followed her husband.
Because of these circumstances, no one knew who the parents of the child were. The Fakir who found the child brought him home and took care of him. Baba's life-story is known only from the time of his arrival in Shirdi.

Whatever is the story behind Babaji's birth doesn't matter.The only truth is that Babaji is our sole care taker and parent. We are fortunate to have Babaji with us.

Hey Sainath always stay with us and bless us with your guidance.

Never ever leave your kids. Forgive our sins and show us the right path.

Sacchidanand Sadguru Sainath Maharaj ki Jai...

Shri Sai Baba ke Gyarah Vachan

2008-01-21T10:07:00.000+00:00

Hindi

Jo shirdi me aayega, aapad dur bhagayega
Chade samadi ke sede per, paer tale dukh ke pede per
Tayag shareer chala jayoga, bhagt heytu doda ayonga
Mann me rakhna drrid vishvas, kare samadi puri aas
Mujeh sada jevit hi jano, anubhav karo satay pehchano
Meri sharan aa khali jaye, ho to koi mujhko batlaye
Jaisa bahav raha jis janka, vaisa roop hua Sai Mann ka
Bhaar tumara mujh per hoga, vachan na mera jutha hoga
Aa sahayta loo bharpur, jo manga veh nahi hai dur
Mujhme leen vachan mann kaya, uska reen na kabhi chukaya
Dhaney-dhaney woh bhagt ananey, mere sharan tej jese na anney.

English

Whoever puts his feet on Shirdi soil, his sufferings will come to an end.
The wretched and miserable would rise into plenty of joy and happiness, as soon as they climb steps of my samadhi.
I shall be ever active and vigorous even after leaving this earthly body.
My tomb shall bless and speak to the needs of my devotees.
I shall be active and vigorous even from the tomb.
My mortal remains would speak from tt ihe tomb.
I am ever living to help and guide all who come to me, who surrender to me and who seek refuge in me.
If you look to me, I look to you.
If you cast your burden on me, I shall surely bear it.
If you seek my advice and help, it shall be given to you at once.
There shall be no wann the house of my devotees.

For Babaji

2008-01-21T09:59:00.000+00:00

I AM JUST A CHILD

I am just a child,
I am so tired of running wild,
Baba, I am so glad that we could meet,
And that I can get shelter, at your feet.

Your words of wisdom, ever so gently flow,
Like candle light in darkness, glows,
They soothe every part, of my aching heart,
Oh Baba, may we never, ever, grow apart.

As I close my eyes & happily dream,
Of how the glorious future should be,
In frame after frame I can clearly see,
Baba, it has to be only about you & me.

Bliss flows, as you gently hold my hand,
Beside me, so tall & heavenly you stand,
Slowly I look up at you, my eyes in awe,
I see such kindness, I never, ever, saw.

Hand in hand, we travel among the stars,
So many planets, I see, afar,
We travel through deserts & springs,
Oh what happiness, mother nature, brings

When I look at images of my life gone by,
I see all my mistakes & realise why,
So cruel, hurt & lonely I had been,
For such divine beauty, I had never seen.

Now that Baba, you are with me,
I can understand & really see,
That the beauty of life is just to BE,
To accept & enjoy all that happens to me.

And now Baba, I really really pray,
That in this birth, you have come to stay,
Pls. be with me always, never go away,
For that would be my dying day.

For I am just a child,
I am so tired of running wild,
Baba, I am so glad that we could meet,
And that I can get shelter at your feet.

Sacchidanand Satguru Sainath Maharaj Ki Jai....

Sai Baba says

2008-01-20T18:02:00.000+00:00

"My empire spreads all over the country of faith. I am the Sovereign Majesty ruling with the wheel of love, living in a divine abode"

"Do not have attachment to money, land and property. This will put you in a chain of downfall and suffering. Selflessness, sacrificies , service and self-abandoment enriches the human soul. Lust, greed and desire cause his downfall. You must learn to imbibe these divine virtues from your childhood."

"Sweet behaviour with others wins the divine grace."

"Anger is a deadly enemy. It burns all our shubh(good) karmas (deeds)."

"Do not enter in purposeless wordy philosophies, do not study Purana, do not follow the strains of blind devotion, do not rush afer penance or recitations of Japa. The only which you should resort to is he surrender at my feet which will carry you to the desired goal. Fix your eyes on my feet, merge your mind my remembrance,m and immerse your mind, intellect in my contemplation. Your body, mind, intellect and existing should lose its identity and mingel in my form absolutely."

"If you always say "Sai", "Sai", I shall take you over the seven seas."

"If one meditates on me, repeats my name and sings about my deeds, he is transformed and his bad karma (deeds) gets destroyed. I stay by his side always."

"Our true guru is God alone. He transcends all Gunas (good qualities). He is beyond all forms. He is the only one who can dispel (drive out) the darkness of ignorance and light the lamp of supereme wisdom."

"Arrogance and conceit bring about the fall of man spiritually."

"Watch the present, and the future will take care of itself."

"Surrendering body, mind, intellect and ego to the Guru is supreme bhakti, dedication to guru and God is real surrender. Then God or Guru takes his seat in your heart and drives the chair of your body and soul to the city of Moksha (heaven) and Ananda (happiness)."

"It is better to serve than to rule."

"I am the bond slave of my devotee. I love devotion. He who withdraws his heart from the world and loves me in my true lover and he merges in me like a river in the sea"

"I always think of him, who remembers me. I run and manifest myself to him, who lovingly calls me"

"The phenomenal world is an illusion. How long will you keep on chasing the shadows?"

"Trust in the Guru fully. This is the only Sadhana (Meditation). Guru is all the Gods"

"If you spread your palms wih devoion before me, I am immediately with you day and night. Though I am here bodily, still I know, what you do beyond the seven seas. Go wherever you will, over the wide world, I am with you. My abode (home) is in your heart and I am within you. Worship me always, who is seated in your heart, as well as in the hearts of all beings. Blessed and fortunate indeed is he, who knows me thus."

"(To chand patil) always remember Allah Maliq. All is Allah. Nothing is without God; Myself, yourself and your mare also. Your mare is grazing behind these cactus shrubs. Go and fetch here" - This when chand patil was looking for his mare in forest for long number of hours.

"My master told me to give bounteously to all that ask. No one asks with wisdom. My treasury is open. No one brings carts to take away the real treasures. I say: dig and search, but no one wants to take any pains. Be the true sons of the divine mother and fully stock yourself. What is to become of us? This body will return to earth and the air we breathe will melt into air. This oppotunity will not return"

"Be child-like. An innocent child-like nature is most pleasing to God"

"If you daily hear his leelas (stories of Sai), you will always see him. Day and night you will remmember him in your mind, When you asimilate Sai in this way, you mind will lose its fickleness and if you go on in this manner, it will finally be merged in pure consciousness"

"You are all well, under the neem tree, feeling its cool shade and spending your life happily. But here I am experiencing all your difficulties and troubles"

"The entire world is permeated by the Lord. Nothing is void without God. The Paramatman (God) enjoys the proprietary power as the master of the universe through the jiva, he being"

Baba’s Mercy

2008-01-20T14:39:00.000+00:00

On Diwali day in the year 1910, Baba was sitting opposite the ‘Dhuni’. He was adding firewood in the Dhuni every now and then. Suddenly, he thrust his hand into the burning Dhuni. The hand burnt, Shama and others who saw this, came running and pushed back Baba, who lose consciousness by then. He appeared to be somewhere else. After sometime, he came to his original state and told the devotees, "A blacksmith’s wife living very far off is my devotee. She was working the bellows. When her husband called her, forgetting the child in her lap she got up to ran to her husband. The child fell into the burning furnace. I immediately thrust my hand into the furnace and saved it. I am not feeling for my burnt hand. But I am happy that the child of my devotee is saved." How Baba could save a child so far away by putting his hand in the Dhuni at Shirdi is beyond our imagination. That is why we call these actions of Sai Baba as miracles. Sai Baba is a very competent Guru who is capable of doing any work in any manner. I prostrate before Sai Baba for having given me his blessings to write the Life History of such a Samartha Sadguru. Those who read these stories of Sai Baba are also blessed. Those whose sins are forgiven can only show interest in Baba’s stories. This is the Truth.

Baba's real stories

2008-01-20T14:18:00.000+00:00

The Story of the Two Lizards

One day, while Sai Baba was seated in Dwarakamai, a lizard on the wall made a noise. A devotee sitting opposite to Sai Baba, asked him why the lizard was making such a noise. Sai Baba replied that the lizard’s sister was expected to come from Aurangabad shortly, and so out of joy, it was making the noise. The devotee kept quiet.

Just then a devotee came on horse from Aurangabad to see Sai Baba. He wanted to feed the horse, and taking out the bag which was with him he shook it. A lizard fell from the bag and rapidly climbed the wall. Sai Baba told the devotees who had questioned Sai Baba earlier, to watch the lizards carefully. The lizard from Aurangabad met her sister and kissed. They played out of joy, going round and round. People sitting before Sai Baba were very much surprised Where is Aurangabad? Where is Shirdi? If the lizards were sisters, how did they happen to be at such distances. How did Sai Baba know that the lizard was coming from Aurangabad? Did he know the mind of animals and also their language? Such doubts arose in the devotees and they simply stared at Sai Baba with surprise.

Sai Baba, who read the minds of the devotees said, "Not only about these lizards, but what is happening in every atom in this world, I know. Without my permission, the leaves on the tree also will not flutter. God is all powerful. All should follow the rules of this creation. Even I cannot go against them. God is the creator of all Universe. Allah Malik hai."

Sai Baba’s Assurance to Bayaja Bai
Bayaja Bai whom Sai Baba addressed as Mai (Mother), became physically weak due to old age. She was not in a condition even to get up from bed. Sai Baba ordered Tatya to remain at the bedside of his mother and do service to her. Now and then he would send Tatya’s close associates like Shama also to be with Tatya. Bayaja Bai was nearing her end . She wanted to see Sai Baba once. Immediately, Sai Baba appeared near her head. His appearance at this last moment gave her divine bliss. Some unexplained joy came to her. She felt that her Atma (soul) was happily going towards heaven. Perhaps, this feeling was due to the complete divine darshan Sai Baba gave her. She wanted to say something but words did not come out of her. She took her son Tatya’s hand and put it on Sai Baba’s hand. Having understood her thoughts, Sai Baba assured her that he would look after Tatya from that moment more than his life. She knew that his words were God’s words. After hearing those words from Sai Baba, her Atma left her body and merged in the universe.

Stealing of Rags
B.V. Dev had a desire to read Jnaneshwari. The translation of the Bhagawad Gita into Marathi my Jnanadev is called Jnaneshwari in Maharashtra. This is considered as a very sacred book and many people in Maharashtra do Parayana of this book regularly . But whenever Dev started to do Parayana some obstacles came and he had to stop in the middle. The main reason for this was that he could not fully understand the inner meanings. He went to Shirdi determined to sit before Sai Baba and complete the Parayana. Sai Baba asked him twenty five rupees as dakshina. Dev gave the amount to Sai Baba but did not ask him about the Parayana of Jnaneshwari. He went to Sathe Wada and asked a devotee named Balakram Mankar about Sai Baba’s leelas. When he was narrating some to Dev the following day, Sai Baba called Dev and with angry eyes began scolding him.

He said, "Though you are an old man with grey hairs, you have not stopped stealing. I will kill you with an axe!" Dev shivered. He did not understand anything. Sai Baba asked for twenty-five rupees as dakshina. Dev brought the amount and gave it to Sai Baba. This time Sai Baba calmed down and told him, "When I am ready to cover you with a zari shawl, why do you steal rags? You read the Jnaneshwari. Sit before me and read it." Immediately, Dev started reading the Jnaneshwari and finished without any obstacles for the first time. When Sai Baba had threated to kill him with an axe, the wavering of his mind stopped and he could now concentrate and read the book completely. To ask Balakram about the leelas of Sai Baba amounted to stealing of rags. Sai Baba personally showed his greatness, stopping the wanderings of his mind, making him read the Jnaneshwari, without any obstacles and increasing his concentration- it was like covering him with a zari shawl.

The important thing that we learn from what Sai Baba said is, we should not waste our time and money by running after pseudo Gurus for consultations and advices. "I will give my advice or help, the moment it is sought" is one of the promises of Sai Baba. This assurance is true and valid even now. You must directly ask Sai Baba and have the zari shawl but should not attempt to steal the rags by going to pseudo Gurus.

Sadashiv Tarkhad
Sadashiv worked as a manager in a factory in Bombay. After the factory was closed, he did not have any means of livelihood and so he came to Sai Baba. At that time, Tatya Patil and others were going to Ahmednagar to see a cinema, with the permission of Sai Baba. Sai Baba asked them to take Tarkhad also along with them for the cinema and from there to proceed to Poona. Tarkhad who was unemployed was surprised at being sent to the cinema. But he knew that none should go against Sai Baba’s orders. So he went to the cinema with the others. When he reached Poona, he found that a factory owner who was trying to secure the services of a person as manager, had heard about him and sent a telegram to his Bombay address, and was waiting for his arrival. So, he got the job immediately. Every advice of Sai Baba was based on one’s future.

God is one

2008-01-20T13:55:00.000+00:00

Sai Baba is a follower of GOD who had been sent on earth to give direction to direction less, to give support to support less and to give love to love less people all around the world. For him no one is poor and no one is rich. He always respect and followed one religion that is "mankind". My personal believe is that baba remains within all of us and always ready to help us whenever we need him. And he will stand besides you in every circumstances.

There is a kabir doha for this "Jaise Til Mein Tel Hai, Jyon Chakmak Mein Aag. Tera Sayeen Tujh Mein Hai, Tu Jaag Sake To Jaag" which means "Like seed contains the oil, fire in flint stone. Your temple seats the Divine, realize if you can"