Shirdi - the holy town where Sai Baba preached the message of love and brotherhood
Shirdi is one of the holiest cities in India. It is located in the state of Maharashtra and frequented by tourists and pilgrims from all over India. It is the abode of Sai Baba and home to certain interesting places to visit in Shirdi. Head to the place on your next vacation to spend a relaxing vacation.
Shirdi is a religious place, a small town that falls within the province of Maharashtra state, in the state’s western region. It is the holy town of the famed saint Shri Sai Baba, who taught and spread the message of
brotherhood and love and gratitude towards the poor and needy throughout his life. It is here where the 19th century saint spent most of his life and finally attained the ultimate salvation at a locality. On October 15, 1918, the saint perished, however, his teachings are still followed throughout the country. Pilgrims and followers of the saint flock the town in huge masses year after year, making it one of the most visited places in the country. It is basically the religious aspect of the place that makes backpackers visit it. Other than that, there is not much in store for the tourists. However, it is quite certain that your tour of the place will be relaxing and tranquil.
The impressions of Sai Baba are spread throughout the town. There is a spiritual essence in the entire surrounding which is easily felt. The place is filled with temples, some old and some new, and most of the temples are dedicated to the saint. These temples also form the popular places to visit in Shirdi and generally remain busy with pilgrims. The Sai Baba Temple or the Samadhi Mandir is the most significant temple here. There is an idol of the saint and a tomb that houses the last mortal remains of his. You will generally find a long queue of visitors in the temple precinct who visit the temple with reasons same as your reasons,
that is to get a glimpse of the saint's idol, worship him, and get his blessings. Besides, the temple looks beautiful. It is made up of white marble and the idol sits on a beautifully decorated throne.
Another popular place of interest here is the Maruti Mandir, which is dedicated to Hindu God Hanuman. It counts amongst the oldest temples in the place and has idols of the lord. It is put high on reverence by the locals and they gather here every morning and evening for aarti. An interesting fact about the temple is that it is amongst the few Hindu temples in India that face south. The fact is interesting because generally Hindu temples face east, in the direction from where the Sun God comes out.
Tourist also flock the popular spot of Gurusthan. It is said that it is here where the revered saint was first seen. It is at a short distance away from the main centre of the town and known for its quietude. This is the place where Sai Baba spent most of his time in Shirdi. Gurusthan signifies the place of Guru or teacher. There is a large Neem tree, nearby which the tomb of Sai Baba's guru is believed to exist. If you are in the town a visit to the place is a must!
Getting into the religious town is easy. Manmad is a popular gateway to Shirdi. Simply catch a Manmad to Shirdi train or bus and get into the
town of Sai Baba for a fun and relaxing vacation.