Shirdi - शिर्डी

This 'abode' of Sri Sai Baba is one of the most important pilgrim centres of the state. Sri Sai Baba, the great teacher and saint lived and died here and is believed to tbe the incarnation of Guru Dattatraya. HE preached religious tolerance and universal brotherhood and is revered by devotees of all faiths. His followers from all parts of India and abroad flock to the sacred shrine round the year. The main temple has a life like marble statue of the saint installed on a high pedestal. Thursdays are of special importance, as on this day Sai Bab attained 'Nirvana'. Annual fairs are held here on Ramnavami, Guru Purnima and Dusshera. Other places of importance are the Gurusthan, the Kandoba Temple, Shani Mandir, Nasrsimha Mandir, changdev Maharaj Samadhi and the sakori Ashram. Kopargaon (15kms) is the nearest railhead for Shirdi. In Ahmednagar district, Shirdi has become famous all over India on account of its association with the renowned Saint Shri Sai Baba.