Prati Shirdi, Pune - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Prati Shirdi Temple

At a distance of 33 Km from Pune, Prati Shirdi is a sacred places situated at Shirgaon, Maharashtra. It is one of the most famous places to visit near Pune. Prati Shirdi, often referred to as Sai Baba Mandir, serves as a replica of the original Sai Baba Temple located in Shirdi. This temple is dedicated to the venerated saint, Sai Baba, and provides a similar spiritual ambiance to that of the original site. It attracts numerous devotees, pilgrims, and tourists throughout the year.

History of Prati Shirdi Temple

Located in Shirgaon, close to Pune, Prati Shirdi is a faithful replica of the Sri Sai Baba Temple found in Shirdi. Established in 2003 by Mr. Prakash Deole, the former legislative council member and founder trustee of the Shri Sai Baba Temple Trust, Shirgaon, the temple closely mirrors the architectural design, rituals, and schedule of the original Shirdi temple, attracting both devotees and visitors. The temple features a stunning idol of Sri Sai Baba, identical to the one in Shirdi. It functions as a sacred space for Sai Baba followers, providing a comparable spiritual experience to that of the original temple in Shirdi.

Architecture of Prati Shirdi Temple

Prati Shirdi temple faithfully mirrors the architectural design of the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple located in Shirdi. Within Prati Shirdi complex, one can find the Dwarkamai mosque, the Gurusthan shrine, the Samadhi Sthan, and the Chavadi shrine. The Dwarkamai Mosque, also known as Masjidmayi, serves as a remarkable symbol of tolerance, brotherhood, and acceptance. It was established for Muslim pilgrims who came to pay their respects to Sri Sai Baba. A yagna, or sacred fire, is still lit daily at the mosque.

The term Gurusthan translates to 'the place where the Guru resides.' Given that the original Gurusthan in Shirdi features a neem tree under which Sai Baba would rest, it was only fitting to replicate this at its counterpart in Shirgaon. The Gurusthan at Prati Shirdi mirrors this concept and is shaded by a splendid neem tree. It includes a pair of marble padukas and a photograph of Shri Swami Samarth, along with a Shivalinga installed at the site.

The Samadhi Sthan in Prati Shirdi is where the impressive statue of Sai Baba is positioned in his iconic seated posture with crossed legs. This idol, crafted by Shri Ramprasad Bharadwaj from marble sourced from Makrana, radiates grace and compassion. The walls and surrounding areas are adorned with a golden finish, enhancing the beauty of the striking silver statue. The inner sanctum, resonating with profound peace and tranquility, is one of the temple's most exquisite areas.

Chavadi, which can be loosely interpreted as 'village office,' is believed to be a place where Sai Baba spent considerable time. A large portrait of Baba decorates this office, and it is known that he took his last breath on the bed located here. Every Thursday, the bed is removed for cleaning and replaced with a palanquin. Access to this section is restricted for women.

Additionally, the temple grounds feature a beautiful garden and a spacious dining hall known as Anna Chattralay, where pilgrims and visitors are offered Anna Prasad and dinner at a nominal price of INR 10. Food is served between 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM and 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM and kids below the age of 5 years are served food free of cost.

Festivals of Prati Shirdi Temple

Prati Shirdi celebrates many of the same festivals as the main Shirdi Saibaba Temple which include Shri Ram Navami in March/April, Guru Purnima in July, and Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, in September/October. These celebrations are marked by profound devotion and hold great importance for the followers of Sai Baba. Additionally, other prominent festivals celebrated in both Shirdi and Prati Shirdi is Hanuman Jayanti, Shri Guru Pournima, and the Shri Samadhi Anniversary.

Dress Code & Other Restrictions of Prati Shirdi Temple

Prati Shirdi Temple, Pune does not enforce a strict dress code; however, it is advisable to wear modest attire that covers the upper arms and legs as a mark of respect. Men are encouraged to don a dhoti or pajama along with an appropriate upper garment, or to wear formal trousers and shirts. Women may choose to wear a saree, half saree, or chudidhars. It is recommended to avoid modern clothing such as mini-skirts, shorts, and sleeveless tops while visiting the temple.

The Prati Shirdi Temple in Pune generally allows non-Hindus to visit and participate in the temple's activities.

Prati Shirdi Temple Timings

Monday: 5 AM - 10 PM
Tuesday: 5 AM - 10 PM
Wednesday: 5 AM - 10 PM
Thursday: 5 AM - 10 PM
Friday: 5 AM - 10 PM
Saturday: 5 AM - 10 PM
Sunday: 5 AM - 10 PM

Prati Shirdi Temple Entry Fee

Entry is Free

Best Time to Visit Prati Shirdi Temple

The optimal time to visit Prati Shirdi is year-round; however, the peak season occurs from October to November, when the climate is enjoyable and suitable for sightseeing. The temple sees the highest footfall during festivals such as Dussehra and Rama Navami, so it is advisable to plan your visit accordingly. It is preferable to refrain from visiting the temple in the summer months, as the region experiences hot and humid conditions during this period. Additionally, from June to September, the place experiences moderate to heavy rainfall, which may hinder your exploration.

How to Reach Prati Shirdi Temple

Pune boasts excellent connectivity through air, rail, and road transport. The nearest airport, Pune International Airport, is located approximately 10 kilometers from the city and offers flights to numerous international destinations, including Dubai, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, the USA, Europe, and Sri Lanka, as well as domestic routes to major cities such as Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Jaipur, Kochi, Trivandrum, Kolkata, and Goa. Pune Junction Railway Station provides robust train services linking the city to all significant towns and cities across India, including Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore. Additionally, Pune is well-served by bus routes connecting it to nearly all cities and towns in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana. About 33 Km from Pune Junction, Prati Shirdi can be easily accessed by state buses or by hiring a cab from Pune.