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'''Sai Baba of Shirdi''' (c. 1838? – 15 October 1918),<ref>{{cite book |url=https://www.britannica.com/biography/Shirdi-Sai-Baba |title=The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica |year=2021 |quote="Shirdi Sai Baba, also called Sai Baba of Shirdi, (born 1838?—died October 15, 1918), spiritual leader dear to Hindu and Muslim devotees throughout India and in diaspora communities as far flung as the United States and the Caribbean. The name Sai Baba comes from sai, a Persian word used by Muslims to denote a holy person, and baba, Hindi for father."}}</ref> also known as '''Shirdi Sai Baba''',<!--No evidence of date of birth --> was an Indian | '''Sai Baba of Shirdi''' (c. 1838? – 15 October 1918),<ref>{{cite book |url=https://www.britannica.com/biography/Shirdi-Sai-Baba |title=The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica |year=2021 |quote="Shirdi Sai Baba, also called Sai Baba of Shirdi, (born 1838?—died October 15, 1918), spiritual leader dear to Hindu and Muslim devotees throughout India and in diaspora communities as far flung as the United States and the Caribbean. The name Sai Baba comes from sai, a Persian word used by Muslims to denote a holy person, and baba, Hindi for father."}}</ref> also known as '''Shirdi Sai Baba''',<!--No evidence of date of birth --> was an Indian spiritual master and [[fakir]], considered to be a [[Hindu saints|saint]],<ref>{{cite book |last1=Kamath |first1=M.V. |last2=Kher |first2=V.B. |title=Sai Baba of Shirdi: A Unique Saint |date=1991 |publisher=Jaico Publishing House |isbn=8172240309}}</ref> revered by both [[Hindu]] and [[Muslim]] devotees during and after his lifetime. | ||
According to accounts from his life, Sai Baba preached the importance of " | According to accounts from his life, Sai Baba preached the importance of "realisation of the self" and criticised "love towards perishable things". His teachings concentrated on a moral code of love, forgiveness, helping others, charity, contentment, inner peace, and devotion to God and [[Guru]]. | ||
Sai Baba condemned discrimination based on religion or caste. | Sai Baba condemned discrimination based on religion or caste. He had both Hindu and Muslim followers, but when pressed on his own religious affiliations, he refused to identify himself with one to the exclusion of the other.<ref name="Rigopoulos 1993 3">{{cite book|title=The Life and Teachings of Sai Baba of Shirdi|last=Rigopoulos|first=Antonio|publisher=[[State University of New York Press|SUNY]]|year=1993|isbn=0-7914-1268-7|page=3}}</ref> His teachings combined elements of Hinduism and Islam: he gave the Hindu name ''Dwarakamayi'' to the mosque in which he lived,<ref name="hoiberg">{{cite book | author1 = D. Hoiberg | author-link = Dale Hoiberg | author2 = I. Ramchandani | title = Students' Britannica India | publisher = Popular Prakashan | year = 2000 | url = https://books.google.com/books?id=ISFBJarYX7YC&pg=PA324 | page = 324 | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180303194030/https://books.google.com/books?id=ISFBJarYX7YC&pg=PA324 | archive-date = 3 March 2018| isbn = 9780852297605 }}</ref> practised both Hindu and Muslim rituals, and taught using words and figures that drew from both traditions. According to the ''Shri Sai Satcharita'', a hagiography written shortly after his death, his Hindu devotees believed him to be an incarnation of the Hindu deity [[Dattatreya]].<ref>{{cite book |url=https://www.shirdibooks.com/sai-satcharitra-chapter-1/ |title=Shri Sai Satcharitra – online version |date=19 September 2012 |access-date=10 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Rigopoulos |first=Antonio |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ce0WuAF247wC&dq=sai+baba+of+shirdi+as+dattatreya&pg=PA260 |title=Dattatreya: The Immortal Guru, Yogin, and Avatara |publisher=State University of New York Press |year=1998 |isbn=1438417330 |pages=158, 260 |quote="The identification of Sāī Bābā of Śirḍī with Dattātreya is such that the Śrī Sāī Satcarita—the most "authoritative" hagiography on the saint's life—is often called "the modern Guru-caritra"; see Shri Sai Satcharita; or, The Wonder-ful Life and Teachings of Shri Sai Baba, xvii. On Sāī Bābā of Śirḍī as Dattātreya, see also Babu, Dattātreya: Glory of the Divine in Man."}}</ref> | ||
Among his favourite sayings to devotees were "Look to me, and I shall look to you"<ref name="Sri Sai Satcharitra" /> and | Among his favourite sayings to devotees were: "Look to me, and I shall look to you",<ref name="Sri Sai Satcharitra">Sri Sai Satcharitra</ref> and ''Allah tera bhala karega'' (translation: God will bless you).<ref>{{cite web |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=gXdja6zClm4C&q=allah+bhala+karega |title= The Illustrated Weekly of India, Volume 102, Issues 1–22 |date= 1981 |publisher= Published for the proprietors, Bennett, Coleman & Company, Limited, at the Times of India Press, 1981 |access-date= 4 January 2017 |quote= "One of his favourite words of benediction to devotees was Allah tera bhala karega (God will bless you)}}</ref> | ||
== Biography == | == Biography == | ||
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=== Early years === | === Early years === | ||
[[File:Shirdi Sai Baba on steps of Dwarakamai.jpg|thumb | [[File:Shirdi Sai Baba on steps of Dwarakamai.jpg|thumb|Sai Baba (seated right), Abdul Baba (seated on the first step), Tatya Kote Patil (seated on the third step with a book in hand), and Nanavali (seated on the left) at Dwarakamai.]]Although Shirdi Sai Baba's place and date of birth are unknown, there are some indications that he was born not far from [[Shirdi]], in a town now in the west Indian state of Maharashtra. According to some sources, he was born in the small village of [[Pathri]] in Maharashtra, to a boatman called Ganga Bhavadia and his wife Devagiriamma.<ref name="Chaturvedi 2000">{{Cite book |last=Chaturvedi |first=B. K. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=79tYVqDsFukC&q=birth |title=Sai Baba Of Shirdi |date=2000 |publisher=Diamond Pocket Books (P) Ltd. |isbn=978-81-7182-046-7 |language=en}}</ref><ref name="Ganguly 1994">{{Cite book |last=Ganguly |first=H. S. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=wsNF65EyAaQC |title=Sai Baba Of Shirdi |date=1994 |publisher=Diamond Pocket Books (P) Ltd. |isbn=978-81-7182-370-3 |language=en}}</ref> Sai Baba is also claimed to have been born in Tamil Nadu. According to this version, his mother’s name was Vaishnavdevi and his father’s name was Abdul Sattar.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-01-20 |title=Explained: The many beliefs surrounding Sai Baba's place of birth |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/sai-baba-shirdi-maharashtra-birthplace-6224585/ |access-date=2021-08-11 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> [[File:Shirdi Sai Baba and devotees2.jpg|thumb|Sai Baba with some devotees]] | ||
Baba was notorious for giving vague, misleading and contradictory replies to questions concerning his parentage and origins, brusquely stating the information was unimportant. He reportedly told a close follower, Mahalsapati, that he was born to [[Deshastha Brahmin]]{{Sfn|Pandya|2018|p=21}} parents in the village of Pathri and had been entrusted to the care of a Muslim [[fakir]] in his infancy.<ref>{{cite book |last=Rigopoulos |first=Antonio |title=The Life and Teachings of Sai Baba of Shirdi |publisher=[[State University of New York Press|SUNY]] |year=1993 |isbn=0791412687 |pages=8}}</ref> According to multiple sources, he was brought up by a Fakir in early childhood.<ref name="Chaturvedi 2000" /><ref name="Ganguly 1994" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=Life Of Sai Baba - Baba's Earliest Period |url=https://literature.saibaba.com/books/life_of_saibaba/part1/p10.html |access-date=2021-08-11 |website=literature.saibaba.com}}</ref> On another occasion, Baba reportedly said that the fakir's wife had left him in the care of a Hindu guru, Venkusa of Selu, and that he had stayed with Venkusa for 12 years as his disciple.<ref>{{cite book | last = Narasimhaswami | first = B.V. | title = Sri Sai Baba's Charters & Sayings | publisher = All-India Sai Samaj, Madras | year= 1986 | pages = 62}}</ref> | Baba was notorious for giving vague, misleading and contradictory replies to questions concerning his parentage and origins, brusquely stating the information was unimportant. He reportedly told a close follower, Mahalsapati, that he was born to [[Deshastha Brahmin]]{{Sfn|Pandya|2018|p=21}} parents in the village of Pathri and had been entrusted to the care of a Muslim [[fakir]] in his infancy.<ref>{{cite book |last=Rigopoulos |first=Antonio |title=The Life and Teachings of Sai Baba of Shirdi |publisher=[[State University of New York Press|SUNY]] |year=1993 |isbn=0791412687 |pages=8}}</ref> According to multiple sources, he was brought up by a Fakir in early childhood.<ref name="Chaturvedi 2000" /><ref name="Ganguly 1994" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=Life Of Sai Baba - Baba's Earliest Period |url=https://literature.saibaba.com/books/life_of_saibaba/part1/p10.html |access-date=2021-08-11 |website=literature.saibaba.com}}</ref> On another occasion, Baba reportedly said that the fakir's wife had left him in the care of a Hindu guru, Venkusa of Selu, and that he had stayed with Venkusa for 12 years as his disciple.<ref>{{cite book | last = Narasimhaswami | first = B.V. | title = Sri Sai Baba's Charters & Sayings | publisher = All-India Sai Samaj, Madras | year= 1986 | pages = 62}}</ref> | ||
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===Return to Shirdi=== | ===Return to Shirdi=== | ||
[[File:Shirdi Sai Baba 2.jpg|thumb | [[File:Shirdi Sai Baba 2.jpg|thumb|left|Sai Baba in his usual attire]] | ||
Around this time Sai Baba adopted the practice of dressing in a knee-length one-piece [[Kaftan| | Around this time Sai Baba adopted the practice of dressing in a knee-length one-piece [[Kaftan|''kafni'' robe]] and a cloth cap, articles of typical Sufi clothing. Ramgir Bua, a devotee, testified that Sai Baba was dressed like an athlete and sported 'long hair flowing down to the end of his spine' when he arrived in Shirdi, and that he never had his head shaved. It was only after Baba forfeited a wrestling match with one Mohiddin Tamboli that he took up the ''kafni'' and cloth cap.<ref>{{cite book | last = Warren | first = Marianne | title = Unravelling the Enigma: Shirdi Sai Baba in the Light of Sufism | publisher = [[Sterling Publishing|Sterling Publishers]] | year= 1997 | page = 104 | isbn = 81-207-2147-0}}</ref> This attire contributed to Baba's identification as a Muslim fakir and was one reason for the initial hostility toward him in a predominantly Hindu village.<ref>{{cite book | last = Rigopoulos | first = Antonio | title = The Life and Teachings of Sai Baba of Shirdi | isbn= 0-7914-1268-7| date = 9 March 1993 }}</ref> | ||
For four to five years, Baba lived under a neem tree, and undertook long periods of meditation. His manner was said to be withdrawn and uncommunicative, and he often wandered for long periods in the jungle around Shirdi.<ref>{{cite book | last = Warren | first = Marianne | title = Unravelling the Enigma: Shirdi Sai Baba in the Light of Sufism | publisher = [[Sterling Publishing|Sterling Publishers]] | year = 1997 | page = 45 | isbn = 81-207-2147-0}}</ref> He was eventually persuaded to take up residence in an old and dilapidated mosque, where he lived a solitary life, surviving by begging for [[alms]] and receiving itinerant Hindu or Muslim visitors. In the mosque, he maintained a sacred fire (''[[dhuni]]''), and gave sacred ash ('Udi') from the fire to guests on their departure. The ash was believed to have healing and [[Apotropaism|apotropaic]] powers. He performed the function of a local [[Hakim (title)|hakim]] and treated the sick by application of ashes. He delivered spiritual teachings to his visitors, and recommended the reading of the [[Ramayana]] and [[Bhagavat Gita]] for Hindus and the [[Qur'an]] for Muslims. He insisted on the indispensability of the unbroken remembrance of God's name (''[[dhikr]]''), and often expressed himself in a cryptic manner with the use of [[parable]]s, [[symbol]]s and [[allegory|allegories]].<ref>{{cite book | last = Rigopoulos | first = Antonio | title = The Life and Teachings of Sai Baba of Shirdi | publisher = [[State University of New York Press|SUNY]] | year = 1993 | page = 86 | isbn = 0-7914-1268-7}}</ref> | For four to five years, Baba lived under a neem tree, and undertook long periods of meditation. His manner was said to be withdrawn and uncommunicative, and he often wandered for long periods in the jungle around Shirdi.<ref>{{cite book | last = Warren | first = Marianne | title = Unravelling the Enigma: Shirdi Sai Baba in the Light of Sufism | publisher = [[Sterling Publishing|Sterling Publishers]] | year = 1997 | page = 45 | isbn = 81-207-2147-0}}</ref> He was eventually persuaded to take up residence in an old and dilapidated mosque, where he lived a solitary life, surviving by begging for [[alms]] and receiving itinerant Hindu or Muslim visitors. In the mosque, he maintained a sacred fire (''[[dhuni]]''), and gave sacred ash ('Udi') from the fire to guests on their departure. The ash was believed to have healing and [[Apotropaism|apotropaic]] powers. He performed the function of a local [[Hakim (title)|hakim]] and treated the sick by application of ashes. He delivered spiritual teachings to his visitors, and recommended the reading of the [[Ramayana]] and [[Bhagavat Gita]] for Hindus and the [[Qur'an]] for Muslims. He insisted on the indispensability of the unbroken remembrance of God's name (''[[dhikr]]''), and often expressed himself in a cryptic manner with the use of [[parable]]s, [[symbol]]s and [[allegory|allegories]].<ref>{{cite book | last = Rigopoulos | first = Antonio | title = The Life and Teachings of Sai Baba of Shirdi | publisher = [[State University of New York Press|SUNY]] | year = 1993 | page = 86 | isbn = 0-7914-1268-7}}</ref> | ||
Baba is believed to have tended a garden called Lendi Baug, named after a riverlet called Lendi which flowed nearby.<ref>{{cite web |title=Lendi baug |url=http://www.shirdisaitemple.com/shirdi-article/id/89/lendi-baug |website=www.shirdisaitemple.com |publisher=Shirdi Sai Baba Temple (official website) |access-date=17 July 2018}}</ref> The garden still exists; it contains temples ([[Samadhi (shrine)|samadhis]]) commemorating people and animals associated with Baba's life, and continues to be visited by pilgrims.<ref>{{cite book | last = Chitluri | first = Vinny | title = Baba's Gurukul: SHIRDI | publisher = [[Sterling Publishers]] Pvt. Ltd | year = 2011 | page = 176 | isbn = 9788120790186}}</ref> | Baba is believed to have tended a garden called Lendi Baug, named after a riverlet called Lendi which flowed nearby.<ref>{{cite web |title=Lendi baug |url=http://www.shirdisaitemple.com/shirdi-article/id/89/lendi-baug |website=www.shirdisaitemple.com |publisher=Shirdi Sai Baba Temple (official website) |access-date=17 July 2018}}</ref> The garden still exists; it contains temples ([[Samadhi (shrine)|''samadhis'']]) commemorating people and animals associated with Baba's life, and continues to be visited by pilgrims.<ref>{{cite book | last = Chitluri | first = Vinny | title = Baba's Gurukul: SHIRDI | publisher = [[Sterling Publishers]] Pvt. Ltd | year = 2011 | page = 176 | isbn = 9788120790186}}</ref> | ||
Some of Shirdi Sai Baba's disciples became well-known spiritual figures and saints, most notably Mahalsapati, a priest of the [[Khandoba]] temple in Shirdi, and [[Upasani Baba Maharaj]], who himself became the teacher of [[Meher Baba]]. He was revered by other saints as well, such as Bidkar Maharaj, [[Gagangiri Maharaj]], Janakidas Maharaj and Sati Godavari Mataji.<ref>Ruhela, S. P. (ed), ''Truth in Controversies about Sri Shirdi Sai Baba'', Faridabad, Indian Publishers Distributors, 2000. {{ISBN|81-7341-121-2}}</ref><ref name="Dabholkar, Govind Raghunath 1999">Dabholkar, Govind Raghunath, ''Shri Sai Satcharita: the life and teachings of Shirdi Sai Baba'' (1999)</ref> Sai Baba referred to several saints as 'my brothers', especially the disciples of [[Swami Samarth Maharaj|Swami Samartha of Akkalkot]].<ref name="Dabholkar, Govind Raghunath 1999" /> | Some of Shirdi Sai Baba's disciples became well-known spiritual figures and saints, most notably Mahalsapati, a priest of the [[Khandoba]] temple in Shirdi, and [[Upasani Baba Maharaj]], who himself became the teacher of [[Meher Baba]]. He was revered by other saints as well, such as Bidkar Maharaj, [[Gagangiri Maharaj]], Janakidas Maharaj and Sati Godavari Mataji.<ref>Ruhela, S. P. (ed), ''Truth in Controversies about Sri Shirdi Sai Baba'', Faridabad, Indian Publishers Distributors, 2000. {{ISBN|81-7341-121-2}}</ref><ref name="Dabholkar, Govind Raghunath 1999">Dabholkar, Govind Raghunath, ''Shri Sai Satcharita: the life and teachings of Shirdi Sai Baba'' (1999)</ref> Sai Baba referred to several saints as 'my brothers', especially the disciples of [[Swami Samarth Maharaj|Swami Samartha of Akkalkot]].<ref name="Dabholkar, Govind Raghunath 1999" /> | ||
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==Teachings and practices== | ==Teachings and practices== | ||
[[Image:Shirdi sai3.jpg|thumb | [[Image:Shirdi sai3.jpg|thumb|Sai Baba, leaning against the wall of Dwarakamayi, with devotees]] | ||
Sai Baba opposed all persecution based on religion or [[caste]]. He was an opponent of religious orthodoxy – Christian, Hindu and Muslim.<ref>{{cite book | last = Rigopoulos | first = Antonio | title = The Life and Teachings of Sai Baba of Shirdi | publisher = [[State University of New York Press|SUNY]] | year = 1993 | page = 139 | isbn = 0-7914-1268-7}}</ref> | Sai Baba opposed all persecution based on religion or [[caste]]. He was an opponent of religious orthodoxy – Christian, Hindu and Muslim.<ref>{{cite book | last = Rigopoulos | first = Antonio | title = The Life and Teachings of Sai Baba of Shirdi | publisher = [[State University of New York Press|SUNY]] | year = 1993 | page = 139 | isbn = 0-7914-1268-7}}</ref> | ||
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Sai Baba interpreted the religious texts of both Islam and Hinduism. He explained the meaning of the Hindu scriptures in the spirit of [[Advaita Vedanta]], with a strong emphasis on the path of ''[[bhakti]]'' (devotion). All three of the main Hindu spiritual paths — [[Bhakti Yoga]], [[Jnana Yoga]], and [[Karma Yoga]] — influenced his teachings.<ref name="SUNY">{{cite book | last = Rigopoulos | first = Antonio | title = The Life and Teachings of Sai Baba of Shirdi | publisher = [[State University of New York Press|SUNY]] | year= 1993 | pages = 261–352 | isbn = 0-7914-1268-7}}</ref> | Sai Baba interpreted the religious texts of both Islam and Hinduism. He explained the meaning of the Hindu scriptures in the spirit of [[Advaita Vedanta]], with a strong emphasis on the path of ''[[bhakti]]'' (devotion). All three of the main Hindu spiritual paths — [[Bhakti Yoga]], [[Jnana Yoga]], and [[Karma Yoga]] — influenced his teachings.<ref name="SUNY">{{cite book | last = Rigopoulos | first = Antonio | title = The Life and Teachings of Sai Baba of Shirdi | publisher = [[State University of New York Press|SUNY]] | year= 1993 | pages = 261–352 | isbn = 0-7914-1268-7}}</ref> | ||
Sai Baba encouraged charity and | Sai Baba encouraged charity and sharing. He said: | ||
{{Blockquote|Unless there is some relationship or connection, nobody goes anywhere. If any men or creatures come to you, do not discourteously drive them away, but receive them well and treat them with due respect. Sri [[Hari]] (God) will certainly be pleased if you give water to the thirsty, bread to the hungry, clothes to the naked, and your verandah to strangers for sitting and resting. If anybody wants any money from you and you are not inclined to give, do not give, but do not bark at him like a dog."<ref>Dabholkar (alias Hemadpant) ''Shri Sai Satcharita'' Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Shirdi, (translated from [[Marathi language|Marathi]] into English by Nagesh V. Gunaji in 1944) [http://www.shirdi-sai-baba.com/sai-books.html available online] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060512203715/http://www.shirdi-sai-baba.com/sai-books.html |date=12 May 2006 }} or [http://www.saibaba.org/saisatc.html downloadable] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060414023134/http://saibaba.org/saisatc.html |date=14 April 2006 }} or on [https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01DO6QJ42 Kindle.] | {{Blockquote|Unless there is some relationship or connection, nobody goes anywhere. If any men or creatures come to you, do not discourteously drive them away, but receive them well and treat them with due respect. Sri [[Hari]] (God) will certainly be pleased if you give water to the thirsty, bread to the hungry, clothes to the naked, and your verandah to strangers for sitting and resting. If anybody wants any money from you and you are not inclined to give, do not give, but do not bark at him like a dog."<ref>Dabholkar (alias Hemadpant) ''Shri Sai Satcharita'' Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Shirdi, (translated from [[Marathi language|Marathi]] into English by Nagesh V. Gunaji in 1944) [http://www.shirdi-sai-baba.com/sai-books.html available online] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060512203715/http://www.shirdi-sai-baba.com/sai-books.html |date=12 May 2006 }} or [http://www.saibaba.org/saisatc.html downloadable] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060414023134/http://saibaba.org/saisatc.html |date=14 April 2006 }} or on [https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01DO6QJ42 Kindle.] | ||
</ref>}} | </ref>}}Sai Baba stressed the importance of surrender to the true ''[[satguru]]'', who, having trodden the path to divine consciousness, can lead the disciple through the jungle of spiritual growth.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://www.shirdibooks.com/sai-satcharitra-chapter-48/ |title=Shri Sai Satcharitra – online version |date=19 September 2012 |access-date=10 April 2022}}</ref> True devotees, he said, always meditate upon the ''satguru'' with love, and surrender themselves completely to him. When he spoke of himself in this sense he explained his meaning thus:<blockquote>You need not go anywhere in search of Me. Barring your name and form, there exists in you, as well as in all beings, a sense of Being or Consciousness of Existence. That is ‘Me’. Knowing this, you see Me inside yourself, and in all beings. If you practice this, you will realize all-pervasiveness and thus be as one with Me.<ref>{{cite web |title=Shri Sai Satcharita - online version |url=https://www.shirdibooks.com/sai-satcharitra-chapter-43-and-44/ |access-date=13 April 2023}}</ref></blockquote> | ||
===Worship and devotees=== | ===Worship and devotees=== | ||
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[[File:Sai_baba_samadhi_mandir_.jpg|thumb|The [[Mandir Kalasha]] Of The Samadhi Mandir, Shirdi]] | [[File:Sai_baba_samadhi_mandir_.jpg|thumb|The [[Mandir Kalasha]] Of The Samadhi Mandir, Shirdi]] | ||
A local [[Khandoba]] priest, Mhalsapati Nagre, is believed to have been Shirdi Sai Baba's first devotee.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://holyshirdi.saibaba.com/houses/mahalsa-house-1.html|title=Holy Shirdi {{!}}Mhalsapati's House|website=holyshirdi.saibaba.com|access-date=2017-03-13|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170720084742/http://holyshirdi.saibaba.com/houses/mahalsa-house-1.html|archive-date=20 July 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ssbf.co.in/About_SaiBaba/CharanPaduka.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140927100629/http://www.ssbf.co.in/About_SaiBaba/CharanPaduka.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=2014-09-27|title=Shirdi Sai Baba Foundation|website=www.ssbf.co.in|access-date=2017-03-13}}</ref> In the 19th century, Sai Baba's followers were only a small group of inhabitants of Shirdi and a few people from other parts of India.<ref name=":0" /> | A local [[Khandoba]] priest, Mhalsapati Nagre, is believed to have been Shirdi Sai Baba's first devotee.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://holyshirdi.saibaba.com/houses/mahalsa-house-1.html|title=Holy Shirdi {{!}}Mhalsapati's House|website=holyshirdi.saibaba.com|access-date=2017-03-13|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170720084742/http://holyshirdi.saibaba.com/houses/mahalsa-house-1.html|archive-date=20 July 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ssbf.co.in/About_SaiBaba/CharanPaduka.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140927100629/http://www.ssbf.co.in/About_SaiBaba/CharanPaduka.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=2014-09-27|title=Shirdi Sai Baba Foundation|website=www.ssbf.co.in|access-date=2017-03-13}}</ref> In the 19th century, Sai Baba's followers were only a small group of inhabitants of Shirdi and a few people from other parts of India.<ref name=":0" /> | ||
Today, because of Sai Baba, Shirdi has become a place of importance in India and is counted among the major Hindu places of pilgrimage.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.amazingmaharashtra.com/2012/05/shirdi.html|title=Amazing Maharashtra: SHIRDI SAIBABA TEMPLE|last=Mhatre|first=Shridhar|work=Amazing Maharashtra|access-date=2017-03-13|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170414192758/http://www.amazingmaharashtra.com/2012/05/shirdi.html|archive-date=14 April 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.tourmyindia.com/blog/top-30-famous-temples-in-india/|title=Top 30 Famous Temples in India: Tour My India|date=2013-12-04|work=Tour My India|access-date=2017-03-13|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170314063551/https://www.tourmyindia.com/blog/top-30-famous-temples-in-india/|archive-date=14 March 2017}}</ref> The first Sai Baba temple is situated at [[Kudal]], [[Sindhudurg]]. This temple was built in 1922. | Today, because of Sai Baba, Shirdi has become a place of importance in India and is counted among the major Hindu places of pilgrimage.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.amazingmaharashtra.com/2012/05/shirdi.html|title=Amazing Maharashtra: SHIRDI SAIBABA TEMPLE|last=Mhatre|first=Shridhar|work=Amazing Maharashtra|access-date=2017-03-13|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170414192758/http://www.amazingmaharashtra.com/2012/05/shirdi.html|archive-date=14 April 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.tourmyindia.com/blog/top-30-famous-temples-in-india/|title=Top 30 Famous Temples in India: Tour My India|date=2013-12-04|work=Tour My India|access-date=2017-03-13|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170314063551/https://www.tourmyindia.com/blog/top-30-famous-temples-in-india/|archive-date=14 March 2017}}</ref> The first Sai Baba temple is situated at [[Kudal]], [[Sindhudurg]]. This temple was built in 1922. | ||
The Sai Baba Temple in Shirdi is visited by an average of 25,000 pilgrims a day. During religious festivals, this number can reach up to 100,000.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.shrisaibabasansthan.org/new_eng%20template_shirdi/shirdi/templecomplex.html|title=shirdi|date=2016-04-23|access-date=2017-03-13|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160423104659/http://www.shrisaibabasansthan.org/new_eng%20template_shirdi/shirdi/templecomplex.html|archive-date=23 April 2016}}</ref> Both the interior of the temple and the exterior cone are covered with gold. Inside the temple, the statue of Sai Baba is carved out of Italian marble and is seen draped with royal cloth, wearing a gold crown and adorned with fresh flower garlands. The temple is managed by the Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Trust. | The Sai Baba Temple in Shirdi is visited by an average of 25,000 pilgrims a day. During religious festivals, this number can reach up to 100,000.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.shrisaibabasansthan.org/new_eng%20template_shirdi/shirdi/templecomplex.html|title=shirdi|date=2016-04-23|access-date=2017-03-13|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160423104659/http://www.shrisaibabasansthan.org/new_eng%20template_shirdi/shirdi/templecomplex.html|archive-date=23 April 2016}}</ref> Both the interior of the temple and the exterior cone are covered with gold. Inside the temple, the statue of Sai Baba is carved out of Italian marble and is seen draped with royal cloth, wearing a gold crown and adorned with fresh flower garlands. The temple is managed by the Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Trust. | ||
Following rituals and traditions dating back to when Baba was still alive, four [[Aarti]] | Following rituals and traditions dating back to when Baba was still alive, four [[Aarti|''aartis'']] are held daily (corresponding to the time of the day) inside the Samadhi Mandir. | ||
* Kakad Aarti ''(The Morning Aarti)'' at | * Kakad Aarti ''(The Morning Aarti)'' at 04:30 | ||
* Madhyan Aarti ''(The Afternoon Aarti)'' at 12:00 | * Madhyan Aarti ''(The Afternoon Aarti)'' at 12:00 | ||
* Dhup Aarti ''(The Evening Aarti)'' | * Dhup Aarti ''(The Evening Aarti)'' at 18:30 | ||
* Shej Aarti ''(The Night Aarti)'' at | * Shej Aarti ''(The Night Aarti)'' at 22:30 | ||
The Palanquin procession of Sai Baba takes place every Thursday from the Samadhi Mandir to Dwarkamayi, onward to Chavdi and back to the Sai Baba Mandir. Devotees belonging to all faiths are welcome to take Darshan in the Samadhi Mandir and have free meals in the Prasadalaya, irrespective of caste, creed, and religion. | The Palanquin procession of Sai Baba takes place every Thursday from the Samadhi Mandir to Dwarkamayi, onward to Chavdi and back to the Sai Baba Mandir. Devotees belonging to all faiths are welcome to take Darshan in the Samadhi Mandir and have free meals in the Prasadalaya, irrespective of caste, creed, and religion. | ||
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Sai Baba of Shirdi is especially revered and worshiped in the states of [[Maharashtra]], [[Odisha]], [[Andhra Pradesh]], [[Telangana]], [[Karnataka]], [[Tamil Nadu]] and [[Gujarat]]. | Sai Baba of Shirdi is especially revered and worshiped in the states of [[Maharashtra]], [[Odisha]], [[Andhra Pradesh]], [[Telangana]], [[Karnataka]], [[Tamil Nadu]] and [[Gujarat]]. | ||
The [[Shirdi Sai Baba movement]] began in the 19th century,<ref>{{Cite book|title=The Life and Teachings of Sai Baba of Shirdi|last=Rigopoulos|first=Antonio|publisher=[[State University of New York Press|SUNY]]|year=1993|isbn=0-7914-1268-7|page=3}}</ref> while he was living in | The [[Shirdi Sai Baba movement]] began in the 19th century,<ref>{{Cite book|title=The Life and Teachings of Sai Baba of Shirdi|last=Rigopoulos|first=Antonio|publisher=[[State University of New York Press|SUNY]]|year=1993|isbn=0-7914-1268-7|page=3}}</ref> while he was living in Shirdi. In recent years, the movement has spread to the Netherlands, the Caribbean, Nepal, Canada, United States, Australia, United Arab Emirates, Malaysia, United Kingdom,<ref>[http://www.rammandirleicester.org.uk/19.html Shridi Sai Baba] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170116053623/http://rammandirleicester.org.uk/19.html |date=16 January 2017 }}. Ram Mandir Leicester. Retrieved on 2017-06-24.</ref><ref>[http://www.shirdisai.org.uk/ Shri Shirdi Saibaba Temple Association of London] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170104000536/http://www.shirdisai.org.uk/ |date=4 January 2017 }}. Shirdisai.org.uk. Retrieved on 2017-06-24.</ref> Germany, France and Singapore.<ref>{{cite book|author1=Brady R. |author2=Coward H. G. |author3=Hinnels J. H.|title=The South Asian Religious Diaspora in Britain, Canada, and the United States|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Zsj7MfYXSZ4C&pg=PA93|date=2000|publisher=SUNY Press|isbn=978-0-7914-4509-9|page=93|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303194030/https://books.google.com/books?id=Zsj7MfYXSZ4C&pg=PA93|archive-date=3 March 2018}}</ref> | ||
===Hindus and Muslims=== | ===Hindus and Muslims=== | ||
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==Followers== | ==Followers== | ||
[[File:Sai Baba.jpg|right|thumb | [[File:Sai Baba.jpg|right|thumb|Sai Baba depicted on a [[tapestry]]]] | ||
[[File:Padukas.jpg | [[File:Padukas.jpg|thumb|Padukas of Sai Baba]] | ||
Shirdi Sai Baba left behind no spiritual heirs, appointed no disciples, and did not provide formal initiation (diksha), despite requests. Some of Sai Baba's notable disciples include Mahalsapathi, Madhav Rao (Shama), Nanasaheb Peshway, Bayijabai, Tatya Kote Patil, Kakasaheb Dixit, Radhakrishna Maai, Hemadpant, Bhuti, Das Ganu, Lakshmi Bai, Nanavali, Abdul Baba, Sapatanekar, Nanasaheb Chandodkar, B.V. Narashima Swamiji.<ref name="disciples">{{cite web |last1=Agrawal |first1=Pravin |title=SAI BABA OF SHIRDI |url=https://www.speakingtree.in/blog/sai-baba-of-shirdi-sharing |publisher=Speaking Tree |access-date=9 June 2020}}</ref> Some disciples became well-known spiritual figures, such as [[Upasani Maharaj]] of [[Sakori]]. After the death of Sai Baba, his devotees offered the daily [[Aarti]] to Upasani Maharaj when he paid a visit to [[Shirdi]] twice within 10 years.<ref name="asian_tribune_meher">{{cite news |author=sandman |url=http://www.asiantribune.com/news/2009/01/19/who-sai-baba-guru-zarzari-zar-baksh-who-lived-khuldabad-says-meher-baba |title=Who is Sai Baba' guru? Zarzari Zar Baksh who lived at Khuldabad, says Meher Baba |newspaper=Asian Tribune |date=20 January 2009 |access-date=8 January 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101119133757/http://asiantribune.com/news/2009/01/19/who-sai-baba-guru-zarzari-zar-baksh-who-lived-khuldabad-says-meher-baba |archive-date=19 November 2010}}</ref> | Shirdi Sai Baba left behind no spiritual heirs, appointed no disciples, and did not provide formal initiation (diksha), despite requests. Some of Sai Baba's notable disciples include Mahalsapathi, Madhav Rao (Shama), Nanasaheb Peshway, Bayijabai, Tatya Kote Patil, Kakasaheb Dixit, Radhakrishna Maai, Hemadpant, Bhuti, Das Ganu, Lakshmi Bai, Nanavali, Abdul Baba, Sapatanekar, Nanasaheb Chandodkar, B.V. Narashima Swamiji.<ref name="disciples">{{cite web |last1=Agrawal |first1=Pravin |title=SAI BABA OF SHIRDI |url=https://www.speakingtree.in/blog/sai-baba-of-shirdi-sharing |publisher=Speaking Tree |access-date=9 June 2020}}</ref> Some disciples became well-known spiritual figures, such as [[Upasani Maharaj]] of [[Sakori]]. After the death of Sai Baba, his devotees offered the daily [[Aarti]] to Upasani Maharaj when he paid a visit to [[Shirdi]] twice within 10 years.<ref name="asian_tribune_meher">{{cite news |author=sandman |url=http://www.asiantribune.com/news/2009/01/19/who-sai-baba-guru-zarzari-zar-baksh-who-lived-khuldabad-says-meher-baba |title=Who is Sai Baba' guru? Zarzari Zar Baksh who lived at Khuldabad, says Meher Baba |newspaper=Asian Tribune |date=20 January 2009 |access-date=8 January 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101119133757/http://asiantribune.com/news/2009/01/19/who-sai-baba-guru-zarzari-zar-baksh-who-lived-khuldabad-says-meher-baba |archive-date=19 November 2010}}</ref> | ||
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===Hindus=== | ===Hindus=== | ||
The Hindu saint Anandanath of Yewala called Sai Baba a "precious diamond."<ref name="templeofpeace">{{cite web |url= http://templeofpeace.org/history.html|title= Who is Shirdi Sai Baba|access-date=29 October 2007 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071015050416/http://templeofpeace.org/history.html |archive-date = 15 October 2007}}</ref> Another saint, Gangagir, said "Blessed is Shirdi, that it got this precious jewel."<ref name="templeofpeace" /> Sri Beedkar Maharaj greatly revered Sai Baba and when he met him in 1873, bestowed the title [[Jagad guru]] upon him.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.swamisamarth.com/parampara/beedkar_biography.html#An%20Avadhoot%20appears%20in%20front%20of%20Shree%20Beedkar%20Maharaj|title= A Short Biography of Shree Sadguru Beedkar Maharaj|access-date= 29 October 2007|url-status=dead|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20071013230840/http://swamisamarth.com/parampara/beedkar_biography.html#An%20Avadhoot%20appears%20in%20front%20of%20Shree%20Beedkar%20Maharaj|archive-date= 13 October 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.saibaba.org/newsletter8-21.html|title= Beedkar Maharaj|access-date= 29 October 2007|work= Sai Vichaar, 6 Oct 2005, volume 8, issue 2001|url-status=live|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20071017014535/http://saibaba.org/newsletter8-21.html|archive-date= 17 October 2007}}</ref> Sai Baba was also greatly respected by [[Vasudevanand Saraswati|Vasudevananda Saraswati]] (known as Tembye Swami).<ref>Dabholkar/Gunaji ''Shri Sai Satcharita''/''Shri Sai Satcharitra'' chapter 50 {{cite web |url=http://www.saibaba.org/satcharitra/sai50.html |title=Shri Sai Satcharitra |access-date=2007-06-17 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070525203709/http://www.saibaba.org/satcharitra/sai50.html |archive-date=25 May 2007}}</ref> He was also revered by a group of [[Shaivism|Shaivic]] yogis, known as the ''Nath-Panchayat''.<ref>Ruhela ''Sri Shirdi Sai Baba – the universal master'' p. 27</ref> He is considered an avatar of the "Supreme Reality" (Brahman or God), a satguru, or saint, depending on individual proclivities. This is not uncommon in Hinduism where there is no central doctrine or cosmology, but a basis in individual faith and spirituality. | The Hindu saint Anandanath of Yewala called Sai Baba a "precious diamond."<ref name="templeofpeace">{{cite web |url= http://templeofpeace.org/history.html|title= Who is Shirdi Sai Baba|access-date=29 October 2007 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071015050416/http://templeofpeace.org/history.html |archive-date = 15 October 2007}}</ref> Another saint, Gangagir, said "Blessed is Shirdi, that it got this precious jewel."<ref name="templeofpeace" /> Sri Beedkar Maharaj greatly revered Sai Baba and when he met him in 1873, bestowed the title [[Jagad guru]] upon him.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.swamisamarth.com/parampara/beedkar_biography.html#An%20Avadhoot%20appears%20in%20front%20of%20Shree%20Beedkar%20Maharaj|title= A Short Biography of Shree Sadguru Beedkar Maharaj|access-date= 29 October 2007|url-status=dead|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20071013230840/http://swamisamarth.com/parampara/beedkar_biography.html#An%20Avadhoot%20appears%20in%20front%20of%20Shree%20Beedkar%20Maharaj|archive-date= 13 October 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.saibaba.org/newsletter8-21.html|title= Beedkar Maharaj|access-date= 29 October 2007|work= Sai Vichaar, 6 Oct 2005, volume 8, issue 2001|url-status=live|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20071017014535/http://saibaba.org/newsletter8-21.html|archive-date= 17 October 2007}}</ref> Sai Baba was also greatly respected by [[Vasudevanand Saraswati|Vasudevananda Saraswati]] (known as Tembye Swami).<ref>Dabholkar/Gunaji ''Shri Sai Satcharita''/''Shri Sai Satcharitra'' chapter 50 {{cite web |url=http://www.saibaba.org/satcharitra/sai50.html |title=Shri Sai Satcharitra |access-date=2007-06-17 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070525203709/http://www.saibaba.org/satcharitra/sai50.html |archive-date=25 May 2007}}</ref> He was also revered by a group of [[Shaivism|Shaivic]] yogis, known as the ''Nath-Panchayat''.<ref>Ruhela ''Sri Shirdi Sai Baba – the universal master'' p. 27</ref> He is considered an avatar of the "Supreme Reality" (Brahman or God), a satguru, or saint, depending on individual proclivities{{cn|date=July 2023}}. This is not uncommon in Hinduism where there is no central doctrine or cosmology, but a basis in individual faith and spirituality. | ||
===Muslims=== | ===Muslims=== | ||
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===Parsis=== | ===Parsis=== | ||
Shirdi Sai Baba was revered by prominent [[Zoroastrianism|Zoroastrians]] such as [[Nanabhoy Palkhivala]], Farhaad Panthaky and [[Homi J. Bhabha|Homi Bhabha]], and has been cited as the Zoroastrians' most popular non-Zoroastrian religious figure.<ref>{{cite book|author=Hinnells, John R.|title=The Zoroastrian Diaspora:Religion and Migration: Religion and Migration|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=0Tha83L1QFUC&pg=PA109|date=2005|publisher=OUP Oxford|isbn=978-0-19-826759-1|page=109|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303194030/https://books.google.com/books?id=0Tha83L1QFUC&pg=PA109|archive-date=3 March 2018}}</ref> | |||
[[Meher Baba]], who was born into a Zoroastrian family, met Sai Baba in December 1915 and considered this event among the most significant in his life. ''Shri Sai Satcharita'' (Sai Baba's life story) makes no mention of Meher Baba, but in ''Lord Meher'', the life story of Meher Baba, there are numerous references to Sai Baba.<ref name="asian_tribune_meher" /> Meher Baba declared Sai Baba to be a ''Qutub-e-Irshad'', or the highest of the five [[Qutb|Qutubs]], a "Master of the Universe" in Meher Baba's spiritual hierarchy.<ref>Kalchuri, Bhau: ''Meher Prabhu: Lord Meher, The Biography of the Avatar of the Age, Meher Baba'', ''Manifestation, Inc.'' 1986. p. 64</ref> | |||
==In culture== | ==In culture== | ||
===Sacred art and architecture=== | ===Sacred art and architecture=== | ||
There are many temples of Shirdi Sai Baba in | There are many temples of Shirdi Sai Baba in India.<ref name="srinivas">Srinivas ''Sathya Sai Baba movement''</ref> Temples are also located in countries outside India, including the United States, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Suriname, Fiji, Mauritius, South Africa, Netherlands, Kenya, Benin, Cuba, Canada, Pakistan, Australia, United Kingdom, Germany, Japan and New Zealand.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.omsrisai.net/saitemples.php?page=1 |title=Directory of Shri Shirdi Saibaba temples around the world |publisher=Omsrisai.net |access-date=17 June 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130222061437/http://www.omsrisai.net/saitemples.php?page=1 |archive-date=22 February 2013}}</ref> In the mosque in Shirdi where Sai Baba lived, there is a life-size portrait of him by Shama Rao Jaykar, an artist from Mumbai. There are numerous monuments and statues, designed to serve a religious function, of Sai Baba of Shirdi. One of these, made of marble by a sculptor named Balaji Vasant Talim, is in the Samadhi Mandir in Shirdi where Sai Baba was buried.<ref>Ruhela ''Sri Shirdi Sai Baba – The Universal Master''</ref> | ||
In 2008, India Post issued a commemorative postage stamp of ₹5 | In 2008, India Post issued a commemorative postage stamp of ₹5 to honour Shirdi Sai Baba.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.istampgallery.com/shri-shirdi-sai-baba/|title=Shri Shirdi Sai Baba Stamp|website=www.istampgallery.com|date=9 December 2016 |access-date=2017-04-13|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170413234650/http://www.istampgallery.com/shri-shirdi-sai-baba/|archive-date=13 April 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://postagestamps.gov.in/Stamps2008.aspx|title=Postage Stamps|website=postagestamps.gov.in|access-date=2017-04-13|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170410051230/http://postagestamps.gov.in/Stamps2008.aspx|archive-date=10 April 2017}}</ref> | ||
===Film and television=== | ===Film and television=== | ||
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==External links== | ==External links== | ||
{{Prone to spam|date=March 2017}} | {{Prone to spam|date=March 2017}} | ||
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* {{curlie|Society/Religion_and_Spirituality/Hinduism/Gurus_and_Saints/Sai_Baba_of_Shirdi/}} | * {{curlie|Society/Religion_and_Spirituality/Hinduism/Gurus_and_Saints/Sai_Baba_of_Shirdi/}} | ||
* {{Internet Archive author |sname=Sai Baba of Shirdi}} | * {{Internet Archive author |sname=Sai Baba of Shirdi}} | ||
* [http://www.saibaba.org/ Shirdi Home Page] | * [http://www.saibaba.org/ Shirdi Home Page] | ||
* [http://www.srinannagaru.com/books/LifeAndTeachingsOfShirdiSaiBaba.pdf Shirdi Sai Baba, The Practical Guru – Sri Nannagaru] | * [http://www.srinannagaru.com/books/LifeAndTeachingsOfShirdiSaiBaba.pdf Shirdi Sai Baba, The Practical Guru – Sri Nannagaru] | ||
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[[Category:Year of birth unknown]] | [[Category:Year of birth unknown]] | ||
[[Category:1918 deaths]] | [[Category:1918 deaths]] | ||
[[Category:Ascetics]] | [[Category:Ascetics]] | ||
[[Category:Consequentialists]] | [[Category:Consequentialists]] | ||
[[Category:Indian Hindu monks]] | [[Category:Indian Hindu monks]] | ||
[[Category:Indian Sufi saints]] | [[Category:Indian Sufi saints]] | ||
[[Category:Islam and other religions]] | [[Category:Islam and other religions]] | ||