From Mumbai
Shirdi
is that mystical magical town near the holy city of Nasik, close to Mumbai. This hallowed
town exudes such intense devotion, that even the casual visitor is bound to be charged
with fervour. Shirdi was the abode of the saint Sai Baba, who lived here for eighty years
– and died here over eighty years ago. It is said that Sai Baba himself calls his
devotees to Shirdi and that his blessings can heal even the deepest wound. The town is
tiny – just 2 square km of main street and a labyrinth of by-lanes – but packs
in much passion.
Pilgrims
throng for a brief “darshan” at Samadhi Mandir, the shrine of Sai Baba
where his mortal remains were interred. The queues outside the mandir are endless, the
throng inside is maddening, and the devotion intense. Next to the shrine is the peaceful Masjid
where Sai Baba spent most of his life. The sacred fire called “dhuni” still
burns here and its ash or “udhi” is smeared on devotees. The Chavadi is a
small building where Sai Baba used to spend every alternate night.
The Guru
Sthan is the shrine where the Baba’s spiritual leader took samadhi (gave up his
body). The neem tree at the Guru Sthan where Sai Baba first sat when he came to Shirdi, is
said to have absorbed miracle powers. The Lendi Gardens where Sai Baba went for a
walk and sat in meditation is a spot where devotees come to pray. The Khandoba Temple,
near the STA bus stop, is the oldest temple in Shirdi.
The streets of Shirdi are paved with shops selling
Sai Baba memorabilia, especially the unforgettable pictures of Sai Baba himself, with his
piercing eyes, snowy beard and benevolent smile. For assistance in Shirdi, contact the
Shri Sai Baba Sansthan, a charitable organisation with a rest house, canteen, locker
facilities and an assistance counter at the bus stand. |
