Vijayadashami at Shirdi - The Day of Sai Baba’s Mahasamadhi
Vijayadashami is an auspicious occasion and festival celebrated by Hindus all over the world. Also known as Dussehra , it is celebrated each year after Durga Puja and Navratri . The festival celebrates the win of good over evil and commemorates Lord Rama’s victory over Ravan . However, for followers of Sai Baba, Vijayadashami has a deeper significance. It was on this day that Sai Baba, also fondly known as Gurudeva attained Mahasamadhi or Punyatithi . Hence, Vijayadashami at Shirdi is a big festive celebration.
Sai Baba Samadhi
Sai Baba came to Shirdi to live permanently in 1858 and remained there till the end of his life. It is believed that it was on Vijayadashami or Sharad Navratri in 1918 when he breathed his last, or went Antardhyan, in other words, achieved Mahasamadhi. However, devotees of Sai Baba believe that though he passed away in 1918, he had indicated the attainment of Mahasamadhi two years earlier in 1916 . On Vijayadashami in 1916, Baba went into a sudden rage and took off his Kafni and other clothing. He threw his garments in the dhuni and with burning eyes was heard asking if he was a Hindu or Muslim . All his followers around him were terrified of this behavior and it was Bhagoji Shinde, one of his most loyal devotees who dared to approach him in this state. He asked Baba about what happened and the spiritual leader striked the ground with the satka and said that this was his Seemolanghan. This incident is considered by his devotees as an indication of his knowing that soon he would cross over to the next life and world. Sai Baba died in 1918 on 15th October , on Vijayadashami and his remains were at Buti Wada which is the original Sai Baba SAmadhi. However, the same place of worship today is known as the Shree Samadhi Mandir or Sai Baba Temple.
Vijayadashami in Shirdi
Since Vijayadashami holds special significance for Sai Baba followers, undoubtedly, it is celebrated with unparalleled zeal and fervor. The Sai Mandir is usually open throughout the night for Darshan and Aarti and lakhs of devotees visit the temple during this festival. Also, for three days, various devotional events and programs are held at the Sai Temple and across different spiritual places. The holy water from River Godavari is brought for bathing the statue of Sai Baba and a grand process of the chariot or palki is undertaken with a lot of devotion. Brahman Bhojan along with Guru Dakashina is arranged during the festival and on the last day, the SGavjewan or free meal is organized for all the people of Shirdi and devotees.
Shirdi Attractions
Shirdi witnesses an unprecedented rise in tourists and devotees during the festival of Vijayadashami. Thus, Shirdi is bustling with spiritual energy and devotees gather in large numbers not only visiting the Sai Temple but also, exploring the other attractions of the town.
Vijayadashami in Shirdi is akin to heaven for devotees of Sai Baba. Followers wait for this occasion and deem it their utmost luck and good fortune to visit Shirdi during this auspicious festival. With prayers and devotion filled hearts, visitors throng to the Sai Temple, Sai Teerth Theme Park and other religious attractions of the town. After all, who wouldn't want to do Darshan or seek blessing of the saint on the day of his Mahasamadhi?
Frequently Asked Question
1. Why is Vijayadashami special in Shirdi? Vijayadashami is the day when Sai Baba attained Mahasamadhi in 1918. For devotees, it is both a festival and a day of remembrance of their beloved saint. 2. What happens at Shirdi during Vijayadashami? The Sai Temple remains open for darshan and aarti throughout the night. Special programs, palki processions, devotional events, and community meals are organised for devotees. 3. Where is Sai Baba’s Samadhi located? Sai Baba’s Samadhi is at Shree Samadhi Mandir in Shirdi, earlier known as Buti Wada. 4. What is Sai Teerth Theme Park? Sai Teerth is India’s first devotional theme park near Sai Temple. It uses shows, films, animatronics, and technology to depict Sai Baba’s life and teachings. 5. Is it crowded in Shirdi during Vijayadashami? Yes, lakhs of devotees visit Shirdi during this time, so the town is vibrant, spiritual, and very busy.
