The Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Temple is located in Shirdi, a town in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, India. It is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in India, dedicated to Sai Baba of Shirdi, a revered spiritual leader who is respected by both Hindu and Muslim devotees.
Key Highlights of Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Temple:
- Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir: This is the main temple where the Samadhi (final resting place) of Sai Baba is located. Devotees come here to pay their respects and seek blessings.
- Dwarkamai: This is the mosque where Sai Baba lived for around 60 years. It holds significant historical and spiritual importance.
- Gurusthan: This is the place where Sai Baba was first spotted by the world, under a neem tree. A small shrine is located here.
- Chavadi: Sai Baba used to sleep here every alternate night. It is another important place of worship in Shirdi.
- Lendi Baug: This is a garden that Sai Baba used to water daily. There is a small temple and a marble ‘Deepgriha’ (lamp house) in the garden.
- Khandoba Mandir: This is the temple where Sai Baba first halted when he came to Shirdi.
Visiting Information:
- Timings: The temple is open from early morning (around 4 AM) to late at night (around 11 PM).
- Aarti Timings: There are four Aartis held daily: Kakad Aarti (early morning), Madhyan Aarti (noon), Dhoop Aarti (evening), and Shej Aarti (night).
- Accommodation: The Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Trust provides various accommodation options for devotees, ranging from budget to more comfortable stays.
- Facilities: The temple complex offers various facilities such as cloakrooms, canteens, and medical aid.
Tips for Pilgrims:
- Plan Your Visit: Weekends and festivals can be very crowded. If possible, plan your visit on weekdays.
- Dress Code: There is no strict dress code, but it is advisable to dress modestly.
- Security: Due to large crowds, there are security checks at the entrance. Avoid carrying valuable items.
- Online Services: The temple offers online services for booking Darshan, Aarti, and accommodation. It’s a good idea to book these in advance.