The Significance of Shirdi Chavadi Procession: Why You Should Visit on a Thursday
For every Sai devotee, a pilgrimage to Shirdi remains incomplete without witnessing the majestic Palki Procession (Palanquin) at the Shirdi Chavadi. While Shirdi is divine every day, Thursday holds a mystical energy that transforms the town into a spiritual carnival.
At ShirdiTemple.com, we recommend our pilgrims from Chennai and Madurai specifically plan their trips to include a Thursday stay to experience this 100-year-old tradition.
๐ The Palki Experience
- What is it? A traditional procession where Sai Babaโs portrait, Padukas (sandals), and Satka (staff) are carried from Dwarkamai to Chavadi.
- Day & Time: Every Thursday at 9:15 PM.
- Historical Origin: Started in 1909 while Baba was still physically present in Shirdi.
- Key Highlight: The emotional “Lullaby” (Shej Aarti) sung to Baba at Chavadi.
- Booking Tip: Use ShirdiTemple.com to secure Thursday VIP Darshan and nearby accommodation.
๐ The History: Why Thursday? Why Chavadi?
During the later years of Sai Babaโs life, he used to sleep in the Chavadi (a local administrative office) every alternate night. On these nights, devotees would lead a grand procession to escort Baba from Dwarkamai to Chavadi.
Baba initially resisted the pomp and show, but eventually gave in to the love of his devotees. Today, even though Baba has taken Mahasamadhi, his spirit continues to make this journey every Thursday night.
โจ What Happens During the Thursday Procession?
The atmosphere in Shirdi on a Thursday night is electric. Here is the step-by-step ritual:
- The Preparation: After the Dhoop Aarti, the Palki is decorated with flowers and velvet.
- The Start (Dwarkamai): Around 9:00 PM, the procession begins at Dwarkamai. Babaโs portrait is brought out, and a royal umbrella is held over it.
- The Music and Dance: Thousands of devotees dance to the rhythm of cymbals, drums, and bhajans. The air is filled with the scent of incense and cries of “Anant Koti Brahmand Nayak Rajadhiraj Yogiraj Parabrahma Shri Satchidananda Sadguru Sainath Maharaj Ki Jai!”
- The Chavadi Arrival: The Palki reaches Chavadi, where special prayers are offered. A silver throne is placed there, and a unique ritual of offering a “Chillum” (pipe) to Baba is performed.
๐ 5 Spiritual Benefits of Attending the Palki
- Direct Connection: It is believed that Baba is most active and attentive to his devotees’ prayers during the Palki procession.
- Removal of Obstacles: Witnessing the “Guru” on a “Guruvar” (Thursday) is said to align the planet Jupiter in your favor, removing career and marriage hurdles.
- Community Healing: The collective chanting creates a high-vibration environment that helps in mental peace and physical healing.
- Historical Continuity: You are participating in a ritual that Baba himself approved and participated in.
- Unity: In the Palki crowd, there is no caste or religion; everyone is simply a “Sai Bandhu.”
โ Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: Do I need a ticket to watch the Palki procession?
A: No, it is free for everyone. However, the streets get very crowded, so it is best to find a spot near Dwarkamai or Chavadi by 8:30 PM.
Q: Can I touch the Palki?
A: Due to the heavy crowd and security, touching is difficult. Devotees usually offer flowers or bow down as the Palki passes.
Q: Is it safe for senior citizens?
A: It can be very crowded. We suggest senior citizens watch the start from Dwarkamai and then proceed to a balcony view or join the quieter parts of the parade.
๐จโ๐ป Author Bio
The Spiritual Concierge Team – ShirdiTemple.com
Powered by Rengha Holidays, we have been facilitating divine journeys for over 25 years. We specialize in Chennai to Shirdi Flight Packages that ensure you are in the heart of Shirdi on a Thursday night to witness the Palki.
Donโt Just Visit ShirdiโExperience It!
Our Thursday Special Packages include confirmed VIP Darshan and hotel stays within 2 minutes of the Chavadi. Experience the magic of the Palki without the stress of logistics.
๐ Call/WhatsApp: +91 9443004141, 7708894141
๐ Book Online: www.shirditemple.com
๐ Key Takeaways
- Thursday Night (9:15 PM): The absolute best time to be in Shirdi.
- Focus: Itโs about devotion and “Bhav,” not just the ritual.
- Location: The path between Dwarkamai and Chavadi is the “Energy Corridor.”
