Sai Baba of Shirdi revered by millions across the world, continues to inspire devotion and love among his followers. Sai Baba is known for his teachings of love, faith and patience, His followers celebrate his life and teachings daily. However, Thursday holds special significance for his devotees.
Shirdi Sai Baba: The Revered Spiritual Leader
Sai Baba, a mystic and spiritual teacher, remains a unifying figure, revered by both Hindus and Muslims. Throughout his life, he refused to align exclusively with any one religion, emphasizing the oneness of humanity. Though believed to have been born a Hindu, Sai Baba was adopted by a Sufi fakir during his early years, further reflecting his transcendent spiritual philosophy. Sai Baba himself placed no importance on questions about his origins, and historical accounts suggest he lived between 1838 and 1918.
Sai Baba arrived in Shirdi, a village in Maharashtra, around 1858 and made it his home until his passing in 1918. Initially dismissed by the locals as a madman, his profound teachings and miraculous deeds gradually earned him a devoted following. By the early 20th century, Sai Baba's message of love, compassion, and unity resonated deeply with Hindus and Muslims alike. His reputed miracles—granting wishes, healing the sick, and alleviating suffering—cemented his legacy as a divine spiritual guide.
Why is Thursday Special?
Thursday, also known as Brihaspati Var or Guru Var in Sanskrit, is a day dedicated to teachers or Gurus. In Sanatana Dharma, Brihaspati, the teacher of the gods, is honored on this day, symbolizing the value placed on learning and guidance. Even the gods themselves are believed to seek wisdom from their teacher, highlighting the significance of the Guru's role.
In this tradition, the days of the week are associated with planets, and Thursday corresponds to the Guru Graha (the planet Jupiter), further cementing its connection with spiritual teachers. For centuries, people have worshipped their Gurus on Thursdays, making it a day of gratitude and spiritual reflection.
Sai Baba is revered more as a spiritual teacher than as a deity, making Thursday particularly special for his devotees. His teachings emphasized the realization of the self and the futility of attachment to material, perishable things. He guided his followers to live by a moral code that included love, forgiveness, charity, helping others, contentment, inner peace, and unwavering devotion to God and Guru.
Many devotees have experienced miraculous transformations and spiritual growth by offering sincere prayers on Thursdays. The day is seen as particularly auspicious for receiving Sai Baba's grace and divine help. Whether it’s seeking relief from difficulties, improving personal relationships, or attaining spiritual clarity, Thursdays are seen as a day when Sai Baba’s blessings flow most abundantly.
Rituals Observed on Thursdays for Sai Baba Devotees
- Visiting Sai Baba Temples: Devotees visit Sai Baba temples, especially in Shirdi, chanting "Sai Sai" with devotion. It is believed that Thursday visits bring peace and positive energy.
- Offering Prayers and Pooja: Special poojas are performed with flowers, sweets, fruits, holy water, lamps, and incense, symbolizing devotion and inviting Sai Baba's blessings.
- Reading Sai Satcharitra: Reading this holy book, which narrates Sai Baba's life and miracles, strengthens faith and devotion.
- Offering Sweet Prasad: Sweet prasad made of sugar and flour is offered to Sai Baba and shared with loved ones, spreading his blessings.
- Annadhanam: Many temples organize Annadhanam, especially on Thursdays, allowing devotees to partake in the offering and receive Sai Baba's blessings.
Thursday holds great significance for Sai Baba's devotees, as it is a day dedicated to seeking the blessings of a Sadguru. Numerous stories from devotees highlight how their lives have been transformed through prayers to Sai Baba on Thursdays. Devotees often observe fasting, abstain from non-vegetarian food, offer prayers, and perform special rituals to honor Sai Baba, seeking spiritual growth, healing, and peace of mind.
Take your Step for Spiritual Growth
Followers of Sai Baba and those practicing spirituality can consider adopting a New Year's resolution to observe fasting—either abstaining from non-vegetarian food or fasting for the whole day—on Thursdays, keeping health conditions in mind. This practice can deepen their spiritual connection and bring positivity to their lives.
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