Shirdi Sai Baba's Ardent Devotee - SHIVAMMA TAAYEE

Born on 16-5-1891 in a village called VELLAI KINARU near Coimbatore in Tamil Naidu. At 1-00PM.

Attained Samadhi in 1994.
She lived for 103 years.
Original name - Raajamma.
Name given by BABA: Shivamma Taayee
Father: Velappa Gounder
Mother: Pushpavathi ammaal
Education: upto third class.She knew only TAMIL
Year of Marriage: March 1904 in her 13th year
Husband: Subramanya Gounder
Son: Mani raaj

About herself as narrated by Raajamma/Shivamma Thayee:-

Her uncle (father's elder brother) Thangavel Gounder brought Shirdi SAI BABA to a village near Pollachi in the year 1906(In Sai Satcharithra, we were told that BABA never went any where leaving SHIRDI, except to nearby villages. This incident narrated by Raajamma shows that BABA is omnipresent). Her age was 15 .She had a one year old son Mani Raj.BABA’s estimated age at that time would have been 71 year old.

BABA stayed there for 2 days in that village. BABA initiated her with Gayathri Mantram in her ear, and also wrote down Gayathri Manthram on a paper with pencil in Tamil and gave it to her. She lost the paper. BABA came in her dream and told her that the slip was in the Rice storage drum. From the time she met BABA, she was longing to go to Shirdi for BABA's darshan .

She had to get the permission from her husband for this. She asked for it and also asked him to take her to Shirdi.He was a non believer. But got belief on BABA with the happening of a miracle. Then, he agreed to take her to Shirdi. It was in 1908 at her 17th year. BABA used to talk to her in Tamil only.

Shivamma taayee described about SHIRDI SAI BABA:-

"HE is 6 feet tall. HIS hands are very long, and the finger of the hands cross beyond the knee.HE is very fair.HIS nose is long and sharp with broad openings. HIS eyes are not black, but blue with very sharp vision. HIS eyes are always glowing like bright light, and they are glowing like that of cat/ tiger. HE is having''' TEJAS”. On seeing HIM, I felt that GOD himself came on to this land as human being. HE liked to cook and feed all the beings,--including human, pets, creatures etc.When I went first time to Shirdi, we, all our family members and other devotees, saw that “Ganji” (cooked rice with more water) was getting cooked in a big vessel. While we were seeing, BABA folded his kafini of the arm above, and started mixing the boiling Ganji with his bare hand for long time. We all saw that wonderful incident. HE himself distributed that Ganji to all beings.”

She continued...."After our return from Shirdi, my husband saw one advertisement in paper, that T.R.Mill in Bangalore wanted supervisor. He applied for it, and by BABA's grace, he got the job". We shifted to Bangalore and started living in Chamarajpet. I myself used to go to Shirdi 3 or 4 times a year. My husband did not like this. When he questioned, I used to tell him'' For me, BABA is my GURU. To me no other God or devathas are important. So it is natural for me to go and have darshan of BABA” He asked me'' why you chose BABA as your guru?”

I said '' HE is one SADGURU GOD incarnation. That is why I chose HIM as my guru. I pray HIM only, with full heart. I would like to go to Shirdi whenever my heart will long for it.”

I used to go to Shirdi 3 or 4 times, irrespective of my husbands dislike. I used to stay there for aFew days, see the miracles of BABA, take the shower of HIS blessings. I considered my self very fortunate. In course of time, I used to spend time in the house itself, doing the parayan of HIS name. With this, slowly I experienced detachment and lost interest in the family life.

I continued to visit Shirdi and visited number of times.BABA used to treat me as HIS own daughter. HE used to shower blessings on me. Sometimes I was the only spectator for HIS wonderful acts. I was the only witness to HIS yoga saadhana,like Khanda yoga etc.”(Also mentioned in Sai Satcharitra ) Shivamma taayee was there when BABA was narrating the poorva janma of snake & Frog.This chapter is also mentioned in Sai Satcharitra in detail .

She stepped on the cut parts like hand & leg of BABA,which were lying out side the masjid(Dwarakamayi) when HE was doing Khandayoga in the night at 1-30 PM in 1915 when she was 24 years old. She also saw BABA when HE was doing DHOUTIYA YOGA at the well outside the masjid.BABA used to take her to the well at the outskirts of Shirdi and show the Yogaabhyaasaas.

Shivamma taayiee’s husband left her after getting fed up with her and marrried another woman. Then she went to mother's place and stayed there. Her son Maniraj got the post of sub inspector, but he and his wife died in an accident later.Her father took her to Shirdi after her husband left her.BABA not only blessed her but also asked her to stay in one of the choultries of HIS devotee and asked her to spend time reciting HIS naamam.

BABA attained Mahasamadhi on October 15th 1918 at 2-30PM. She says"Shirdi SAI BABA is the incarnation of SHIVA.HE is the incarnation of DATTATREYA. BABA changed my name to SHIVAMMA TAAYEE(mother of SHIVA), in the year 1917. BABA said “ From to day you are called Shivamma Taayee.Go to Bangalore , the capital of Karnataka , My blessings to you, You will start an ashramam in my name.ALLA MAALIK”

Construction of Ashram /Temple :

She followed the instructions of BABA.She lived many years by begging, meditating and saying Sai naamama always roaming in Bangalore.

In 1944, one great soul,Sri Narayana Reddy and his wife Sharadamma gave some land ,the land at Roopen agrahara,near Madiwala at Bangalore for her to stay. She did penance for 12 years there without food. Ants built up “Putta” around her and she was completely submerged in that. One snake also used to rest on her head during this period.

One day many devotees from Bangalore assembled and by chanting BABA's name, skilfully made the snake to leave from the jatajutam of Shaivamma taayee. They all requested her to put an end to the Tapas, which she had been doing it for 12 years.She did so and spent life with the namasmarana of BABA.

She constructed a temple for BABA and an elementary school in the name of BABA for poor children. (In 1973).It was later upgraded to High School (in 1991). Many SAI devotees from all over and her relatives, grand children used to visit her. Her relatives, who were in a very good financial position asked her to come and stay comfortably with them. But she never desired to leave the place saying that she did not want to leave from the shelter and the feeling of being drenched with the shower of enormous love and blessings of her GURU Shri BABA In this ashramam.

In 1993 she said "My samadhi is being constructed in the SAI BABA temple itself. It is almost completed and at the time when I or my Guru decides, my body has to be kept in that and the top has to be closed. That is the only work pending.” she continued"BABA ,during HIS life time and even after HIS Samadhi, is taking care of me, showing me the way, helping me, and showing kindness. My each inhalation and exhalation is because of HIS blessing and wish. Even after HE left HIS physical body, HE is always in contact with me with HIS “sukshma sareeram”(cosmic body).He is talking in good Tamil”She continued" Frequently He is meeting me either in HIS physical body or cosmic body, talking to me, guiding me, cautioning me if required and telling me any thing HE wanted to tell me.””

She constructed two temples of BABA in the ashramam.In one of them she installed Black colour Pratima of BABA.

This kind of pratimas,one black colour pratima and the other one in begging posture are not seen any where to my knowledge. In the other, she installed Pratima of BABA in the standing, begging posture as asked by BABA in her dream, made out of marble by a sculptor brought for this purpose from Rajasthan.

These two temples are apart from the Pooja room of Shivamma Tayee where she installed the pratima of BABA in silver, by getting it done there itself by a gold smith.

Devotees used to approach her and ask her to help in solving their problems.Shivamma Tayee used to pray BABA and give them her visionary solutions, blessings and wishes of BABA. This, she did not do every time, to every body, at all times. She used to do to only one devotee at a time with restriction.

She said"Before my GURU, I am like a dust particle. I am not here without HIM. This is the truth. What ever these devotees are getting from me like-wishes, blessings,boons,Philosophical mental strength,--everything is coming actually from BABA. " She used to tell the devotees "If you completely surrender to SAMARTHA SADGURU SHIRDI SAI BABA, you will not have any problem. Deep mental peace will come to you automatically.”

She explained what ever she knew about BABA's birth,life, teachings etc.This is the photo of silver Pratima which was installed by Shivamma Tayee.

A visit detail about Shirdi Sai Baba temple, Roopen Agrahara, Bangalore :

Though I never had the privilege of stepping on the blessed soil of Shirdi, it is always made up for, by a visit to the other divine Sai temples on every visit to India. One such visit is to the Shirdi Sai Baba temple at Roopen Agrahara in Bangalore. This Sai temple that I visited on the Holy Thursday has a history.

I heard about it first from my Uncle who also visited it only recently after reading about it in one of the Sai

Leela books. The first thing that struck me as I entered the holy temple was the black moorthy of Baba; I had never seen such an Image of Baba before. The eyes are painted golden and appear as though they are illuminated. The pratima is installed in the second Room facing the entrance into the small building. The Poojari understood that it was my first visit to the temple. He offered to take me Around and told briefly the story of Shivamma Thayee, a great devotee of Baba who Stayed in the place for over 70 years. Shivamma Thayee was born in 1889; she attained Samadhi in 1994 at the same place where the temple is located. She had a son after whose Marriage she took up the spiritual path. She had the privilege of receiving Upadesh directly from Baba.

Her Samadhi is in the lower level, right below the pratima of Sai Baba. The Samadhi room is very small with a narrow space and might just fit not more that 10 people. There is Chavadi building right next to the main temple. The Chavadi was actually the home that Amma lived in. There is also a small prayer room with Silver pratima of Baba. Adjacent to the Chavadi is the Dwarakamayee. Here we can find the pratima of Baba in standing posture holding on to the tin container(dabba).

Direction to reach Sai Baba temple :

The directions to reach this place , On Hosur Road, when going from Madiawala/Koramangala, After the Silk board flyover take the Right into a small lane, the road takes a sharp left and then a sharp right, the Temple is located on the left, just before a T intersection on the same road. The Temple has no visible signage outside,hence might be a bit difficult to find, but I hope the directions given here would be of help. Sai Ram

Future projects-social welfare projects:

Sri Narayana Reddy garu and his wife Sharadamma gave land to Shivamma Tayee with a big heart,and they were instrumental to the up bringing of BABA's Mutt, as they call. At present Sri Gopala Reddy garu and his wife Kamalamma garu are taking care of the proper maintainance of the temple,school,Old age home etc.It is worth noting that nearly 800 students are taking free education in their school in the premises

They are maintaining the school in a very disciplined way and giving free education to all the poor students, studying in that school. They have also given free shelter to 7 old poor gents and 7 women in their Old age home. The premises are kept very neat and the inmates are being given very nice food free of cast. They are given free treatment also when ever required.Mr.Nagaraj is the teacher cum manager to look after all the activities of school and ashramam.Mr.Venkata Raju & his brother Mr.Sampangi perform pooja ,archana,abhishekam to BABA daily in all the 3 temples.

The address of the ashramam/Temple:

Sri Shirdi Sai Baba Matt.
Roopen agrahara, NGR layout
Off Hosur main road,
Madiwala post,
Bangalore -68

PHONE:

080-25732522

Pandharpur Shri Vitthal and Sri Rukmini Darshan by Train from Bangalore

Pandharpur does not have railway station. Solapur Jn(SUR) is a nearby train station connected to Bangalore.

Bangalore to Solapur Trains

* Trains to Solapur depart from 3 stations in Bangalore: Yesvantpur Jn (YPR), Bangalore Cy Jn (SBC) and Krishnarajapurm (KJM)

Accommodation

There is Bhakta Niwas for people who like to be comfortable. The charges here min Rs.300 approx.

Book on Phone 8:00am – 9:00pm (IST) Monday to Saturday – Toll Free 1800–102–7979, +91–9958891364

Pandharpur is a holy place of Shri.Vitthal and Shri.Rukmini. It is also known as the Southern Kashi of India and Kuldaivat of Maharashtra State. It is located at a distance of 72 kms by road. from Solapur District headquarters. The Pandharpur Railway Station falls on the Miraj-Kurduwadi-Latur railway track.

The ancient temple of Shri.Vitthal was renovated in 1195 A.D. There are many other temples of Indian Dieties and Mathas (Dharmshalas) of many Saints. The Chandrabhaga (Bhima) river flows through the City. Large number of devotees from all over Maharashtra and surrounding States gather at Pandharpur mainly to celebrate the Aashadhi and Kartiki Ekadashis every year in addition to the regular rush of devotees everyday. The Palaquins (Palakhi) of various Saints originating from various locations gather at Wakhari, five kms. from Pandharpur for the Waari festival.

The various daily rituals like Kakda Aarati, Mahapooja, Mahanaivedhya, Poshakh, Dhooparati, Padyapooja, Shejarti etc are performed in the main temple of Lord.Vitthal.

The following are the temples inside the main temple as one enters from Namdev Payari and come out of Pachhim Dwar of the temple.

Namdev Payari, Ganesh Mandir, Datta Mandir, Garud Mandir, Maruti Mandir, Chowrangee Devi Mandir, Garud Khamb, Narsimha Mandir, Ek-mukh Dattatraya Mandir, Rameshwar Lingam Mandir, Kala Bahirav Mandir, Laxmi-Narayan Mandir, Kashi-Vishwanath Mandir, Satya-Bhama Mandir, Radhika Mandir, Siddhi-Vinayak Mandir, Mahalakshmi Mandir, Venkateshwar Mandir, Kanhopatra Mandir, Ambabai Mandir, Shani-Dev Mandir, Nagnath Mandir, Guptaling Mandir and Khandoba Mandir

Places of Importance in Pandharpur

1. Sant Kaikadi Maharaj Math - It is on the north side of the town. It is a modern innovation depicting the methoes of the epic Gods and Saints. It may It may take minimum two hours to see the entire Math.
2. Sant Tanapure Maharaj Math
3. Gujarathi Devsthan - It is on the other side of the river Bhima. The pilgrims have to cross the river and visit the Shrinathji Temple.

Mookh Darshan

For the devotees who cannot spare long hours in queues for Padsparshadarshana one can have the Mookhdarshan. Bhakta or devotee can take darshan of Vitthal from the distance of about 25 metres and of Rukmini, from the distance of about 15 metres. It requires only 15 to 20 minutes for darshan. Darshan in Pandharpur has a distinctive meaning valued sentimentally by all devotees which does not obtain in any other temples in India.

Daily Ritualls in the Temple

Sale of Prasad and Photos

From 22.03.1985 onwards the Laddu Prasad was introduced and distributed inside the temple premises. Each Laddu is prepared in highly hygenic conditions and offered to Lord Vitthala and Rukmini as Naivedhya and thereafter they are sold as Prasad for the benefit of the devotees on the counters. From 01.05.1985, being a Silver Jubilee of Maharashtra Day, colour photos of Lord Vitthala and Rukmini are printed and sold at reasonable prices.Shri. Vitthal-Rukmini Temple Committee is dedicated to the devotees warkaris, by providing facilities for easy and quick darshana and performing sevas and poojas.

There is a mention by Shirdi Saibaba himself about the significance of Pandarapur in Chapter 7 of Sai Satcharitha the text of which is as mentioned below:

Going to Pandharpur and Staying There

I shall now close this Chapter after relating a story illustrating how Sai Baba loved His devotees and anticipated their wishes and movements. Mr. Nanasaheb Chandorkar, who was a great devotee of Baba, was Mamlatdar at Nandurbar in Khandesh. He got an order of transfer to Pandharpur. His devotion to Sai Baba bore fruit, as he got an order to go and stay at Pandharpur which is regarded as the ‘BHUVAIKUNTHA’ - Heaven on earth. Nanasaheb had to take immediate charge, so he left, immediately, for the place, without even writing or informing anybody at Shirdi. He wanted to give a surprise visit to Shirdi - his Pandharpur, see and salute his Vithoba (Baba), and then proceed. Nobody dreamt of Nanasaheb’s departure for Shirdi, but Sai Baba knew all about this, as His eyes were everywhere (omniscient). As soon as Nanasaheb approached Neemgaon, a few miles from Shirdi, there was stir in the Masjid at Shirdi. Baba was sitting and talking with Mhalsapati, Appa Shinde and Kashiram, when He at once said, "Let us all four do some Bhajan, the doors of Pandhari are open, let us merrily sing." Then they began to sing in chorus, the burden of the song being "I have to go to Pandharpur and I have to stay on there, for it is the house of my Lord." Baba sang and the devotees followed Him. In a short time Nanasaheb came there with his family, prostrated before Baba and requested Him to accompany them to Pandharpur and stay with them there. This solicitation was not necessary, as the devotees told Nanasaheb that Baba was already in the mood of going to Pandharpur and staying there. Hearing this Nanasaheb was moved and fell at Baba’s Feet. Then getting Baba’s permission, Udi (sacred ashes) and Blessings, Nanasaheb left for Pandharpur.
There is no end to Baba’s stories, but let me now make a halt here, reserving for the next Chapter other topics, such as importance of human life, Baba’s living on alms, Bayajabai’s service and other stories.

Hence Pandarapur Yathra is a must visit for all the sai devotees.

Finally have a very happy journey of Pandharpur Shri Vitthal and Sri Rukmini Darshan.

Akkalkot Shri Swami Samarth Maharaj Darshan by Train from Bangalore

Solapur is well connected from Bangalore by rail. There are many trains & buses from Bangalore to Solapur. It is around 675 – 700kms from Bangalore depending on the train route.

Bangalore to Solapur Train Timings

There is Bhakta Niwas, recently built, for people who like to be comfortable, even during a pilgrimage. Here, the rooms all have attached bathrooms, and there are also large rooms for groups. The charges here start from Rs. 250.

Both the complexes have a vegetarian restaurant on the premises. The food is both cheap as well as tasty. The Swami Samarth Samadhi Devasthan, the temple housing the Samadhi is a small and neat place, calm and tranquil, transporting one back to the days of yore when the swami was alive. If one reaches the temple before 11:30 AM, one can perform Abhishek and puja of the Padukas of the Swami for as little as Rs. 25 per person. It is worth it, as one is allowed into the sanctum sanctorum, and can see the Samadhi and the Padukas up close. After 11:30, the Padukas are decorated and kept for viewing only.

Akkalkot is a Holy place of Shri.Swami Samarth Maharaj. It is located at a distance of 38 kms. by road from Solapur District headquarters. This Saint is believed to be the reincarnation of Lord Dattatraya. The Samadhi of this Saint is worshipped by the devotees. The Death Anniversary is celebrated on Chaitra Shuddha Trayodashi every year. Large number of devotees visit the place.

The present temple is built around famous banyan tree. This is the same banyan tree sitting under which Shri.Swami Maharaj used to meditate and preach the followers. The temple consists of main temple, sabha mandap and accommodation. Annacchatra (free meals to devotees) is organized daily (two times in day) by temple authorities.

Swami Samarth Maharaj sitting under banyan tree

The Swami Samarth Maharaj came to Akkalkot at the beginning of Shake 1779. The total period of reincarnation of Swamiji as the fourth Avataar of Shri. Datta is forty years of which he spent 21 years in Akkalkot.

In and around Akkalkot, there are other minor places of interest like the ashrams and samadhis of various disciples of Swami Samarth. These places are not as popular as the main temple, but are worth a visit simply because the places have been maintained quite well, and are exactly as they used to be, and one can still feel the atmosphere that comes from years of meditation and penance. The best way to visit all these places is to hire a local auto driver as a guide. The chaps are only too happy to take one around the village for 50 Rupees.

Around 2 Km from Akkalkot is another place worth a visit for a traveler on a spiritual quest. The Shivpuri Ashram is a legacy of one of Swami Samarth's disciples, Shree Gajanan Maharaj (not the Gajanan maharaj of Shegaon), and his father, Shree Yogindra Maharaj. They were responsible for the revival of the ancient system of Agnihotra, or the maintenance of the sacred fire. The ashram is a serene place, with the Samadhi of the swamiji and his descendants and disciples. It is amazing how they have managed to popularize the age old concept of Agnihotra.

The holy Samadhi of Shri. Swamiji is loacated in the house of shri. Cholappa in the place already reserved for it before his bodily demise. This is known as Samadhimath.

The spiritual fearless slogan in marathi ‘BHIU NAKOS MI TUJHYA PATHISHI AAHE’ (Don’t fear, I am with you) is given by Shri. Samarth Swami Maharaj himself.

The name of Akkalkot Maharaj Swami Samarth comes in Shirdi Saibaba's Sai Satcharitha. Hence, All the sai devotees must and should visit this holy place of Akkalkot without fail atleast once during their lifetime and get the blessings of the great Datta Avatar Shri. Swami Samarth.

Finally, a very happy journey to all the saidevotees who are flocking to Akkalkot to have the darshan of Shri.Swami Samarth.

Gangapur Sri Dattatreya Temple Darshan by Train from Bangalore

The Railway Station at Gangapur is called Gangapur Road. Bangalore to Ganagapur Road Rail Distance is 612 Kms. From Railway Station Ganagapur Road to Gangapur Town where Datta Maindir is situated is around 30 minutes journey by road.

The best mode to reach Ganagapur is by Udyan Express Train. It starts around about 8 pm from Bangalore and reaches Ganagapur Road station at 9 am next day. From here there are plenty of private transport Vehicles and few government run buses. The actual place to visit is Deval Ganagapur which is 25 kms from here.

About Accommodation:

There are lot of private lodges in Ganagapur but do not expect 5 star hotels. However best accommodate is Avadhoota Dattapeetham’s Sachidananda Ganapati Aashram, well you require prior permissions to stay here.

Apart from the above, there is a lodge run by the Archak family of Devala Ganagapur, the address is as mentioned below:

Sri Gurudatta Lodge

Ganagapur-585 212.

Gulbarga District.

Phone: 08470-274338

Places to see:

– The Datta Mandir
– Kalleshwara Temple
– Sangam and the Audumbara Tree

"Bhima-Amarja Sangam at Gangapur, is very sacred. There are Koti Theerthas there. The Aswatha Tree at Gangapur is as powerful as the KalpaVriksha. Near the Aswatha Tree is Narasimha Teertha, and northwards to it are the PapaVinasini Teertha, Varanasi Teertha, Rudrapada Teertha, Chakra Teertha, Koti Teertha, manmadha Teertha etc. There is the Kalleshwara temple there. It is as holy as Gokarna."

The Nirguna Padukas at Gangapur.

Worship – Pooja Manorath

One Time Puja

Pathapuja Rs. 61 Shri Saneswar Talabishek Rs. 151

Shri Ganapathi Puja Rs. 111 Sridurga Saptashti Rs. 151

Shri Gurucharitra Saptaah Rs. 251 Shri Dattatreya Ashtottra Rs. 201

Rudra Abhishek Rs.111/251/351 Shri Satyadatta Pooja Rs. 251

Madhukari Anadaan Rs. 111/201/301 Shri Datta Sahshtranaam Seva Rs. 251

Neveda Rs. 151 Nirguna Padukas Keshalpan Rs. 351

33 Bhraman Bhojan Rs. 1101 33 Danpati Bhojan Rs. 2101

All Seva in Rs. 551

Shri Gurucharitra Parayna Rs. 1501 Rudra Abhishek Rs. 1101

Shri Ganesh Abhishek Rs. 1501 Anadaan Rs. 1501

How to Perform Puja

Personally visit to Ganagapur and It takes 2-3 hours for pooja, consult poojari for Timings. Accommodation and Other arrangement will be done by Poojari on arrival. Recommend you to intimate in advance for proper arrangement.

Cost of Stay - Approx Rs. 150 - Rs. 500 per person
Cost of Food - Approx Rs. 30 - Rs. 100 per person

For performing Guru Paduka Pooja/Rudrabhishekam/Annadanam, kindly contact the Archak Mr.Govindbhat Gurubhat Pujari whose address is mentioned below:

Mr.Govindbhat Gurubhat Pujari

Near Chidanand Dharm Shala

Temple Ganagapur-585 212. Gulbarga District

Phone: 08470-274315

You may also contact Shrimaan Vilas Pujari / Sadashiv Pujari for performing Gurupaduka Pooja/Rudrabhishekam/Annadanam.

Never to miss “Madukari”

Madukari is a tradition here, it is believed that Lord Dattatreya had told the people that every day he would come to their homes for Biksha. So all the people visiting here need to participate in this. You are supposed to go for Biksha.

The saying of Dattatreya that he would visit houses for Bhiksha seems to be misinterpreted here. There is not a single place where you do not find baggers and they beg in the name of Dattatreya. Sometimes it really becomes difficult to differentiate baggers and non-baggers!!!

Return Journey

The Udyan express departs from Ganapur Road at 5:45 pm. It will reach Bangalore by 9 am.

Finally Have a Nice Trip!

Original Saibaba Padukas at Ashok Mhalsapathi's House

This is the photograph taken at Sri.Ashok Mhalsapathi's (Grand son of Sri.Mhalsapathi) House in Shirdi. This Paduka of Shirdi Saibaba was given to Sri.Mhalsapathi by Sri Saibaba himself.

The original version of the story about Saibaba Paduka can be seen in Sai Satcharitha Chapter 5 which is as below:

The Story of Padukas (foot-prints) under the Neem Tree
A devotee of Akkalkot Maharaj by name Bhai Krishnaji Alibagkar worshipped the photo of Akkalkot Maharaj. He once thought of going to Akkalkot (Sholapur District), taking the darshana of the Padukas (foot-prints) of the Maharaj and offering his sincere worship there; but before he could go there, he got a vision in his dream. Akkalkot Maharaj appeared in the vision and said to him - "Now Shirdi is my resting place, go there and offer your Worship." So Bhai changed his plan and came to Shirdi, worshipped Baba, stayed there for six months and was happy. As a reminiscence of this vision etc., he prepared the Padukas and installed them on an auspicious day of Shravan, Shaka 1834 (1912 A.D.) under the Neem tree with due ceremonies and formalities, conducted by Dada Kelkar and Upasani. One Dixit Brahmin was appointed for worship, and the management was entrusted to devotee Sagun.

Complete Version of this Story
Mr. B.V. Deo, Retired Mamalatdar of Thana, and a great devotee of Sai Baba, made enquired about this matter with Sagun Meru Naik and Govind Kamlakar Dixit and has published a full version of the Padukas in Sai Leela Vol. 11, No. 1, page 25. It runs as follows:
In 1834 Shaka (1912 A.D.) one Doctor Ramarao Kothare of Bombay came to Shirdi for Baba’s darshana. His compounder; and his friend, Bhai Krishnaji Alibagkar, accompanied him. The compounder and Bhai became intimate with Sagun Meru Naik and G.K. Dixit.
While discussing things, these persons thought that there must be some memorial of the fact of Sai Baba’s first coming to Shirdi and sitting under the holy Neem tree. They thought of installing Baba’s Padukas there and were going to make them of some rough stones. Then Bhai’s friend, the compounder, suggested that if this matter be made known to his master, Dr. Ramarao Kothare, who would prepare nice Padukas for this purpose. All liked the proposal and Dr. Kothare was informed of it. He came to Shirdi and drew a plan of the Padukas. He went to Upasani Maharaj in Khandoba’s temple, and showed him his plan. The latter made many improvements, drew lotuses, flowers, conch, disc, man etc., and suggested that the following SHLOKA (verse) regarding Neem tree’s great ness and Baba’s Yogi powers be inscribed. The verse was as follows:

"Sada Nimbarvrikshasya mooladhiwasat,Sudhasravinam tiktamapi-apriyam tam,Tarum Kalpavrikshadhikam sadhayantamNamameeshwaram Sadgurum Sai Natham"

Sai Devotees are requested to visit Sri.Ashok Mhalsapathi's house when they visit Shirdi and have darshan of Saibaba Padukas. The address of Sri.Ashok Mhalsapathi's house is as mentioned below:

Sri.Ashok Martand Nagare (Grandson of Bhakta Mhalsapathi)
Near Dwarakamai Masjid
Shirdi.
Phone: 02423-255613,258924
Mobile: +91 94227 28094

The Nine Coins that Baba Gave to Lakshmi Bhai representing Nava Vidha Bhakti

This is the photograph of Nine Coins that Shirdi Saibaba gave to Lakshmi Bhai just before leaving his body. This is preserved now by Lakshmi Bhai's Daughter.

The story pertaining to this is narrated in Sai Satcharithra Chapter 42 and Chapter 21 respectively which is as below:

Charity to Laxmibai
Dasara or Vijayadashami is regarded by all the Hindus as the most auspicious time and it is befitting that Baba should choose this time for His crossing the border-line. He was ailing some days before this, but He was ever conscious internally. Just before the last movement He sat up erect without anybody's aid, and looked better. People thought that the danger had passed off and He was geeting well. He knew that He was to pass away

Baba Pervading All Creatures
This Laxmibai Shinde was a good and well-to-do woman. She was working in the Masjid day and night. Except Bhagat Mhalasapati, Tatya and Laxmibai, none was allowed to step in the Masjid at night. Once while Baba was sitting in the Masjid with Tatya in the evening, Laxmibai came and saluted Baba. The latter said to her - "Oh Laxmi, Iam very hungry." Off she went saying - "Baba, wait a bit, I return immediately with bread." She did return with bread and vegetables and placed the same before Baba. He took it up and gave it to a dog. Laxmibai then asked - "What is this, Baba, I ran in haste, prepared bread with my own hands for You and You threw it to a dog without eating a morsel of it; You gave me trouble unnecessarily." Baba replied - "Why do you grieve for nothing? The appeasement of the dog's hunger is the same as Mine. The dog has got a soul; the creatures may be different, but the hunger of all is the same, though some speak and others are dumb. Know for certain, that he who feeds the hungry, really serves Me with food. Regard this as an exiomatic Truth." This is a ordinary incident but Baba thereby propounded a great spiritual truth and showed its practical application in daily life without hurting anybody's feelings. From this time onward Laxmibai began to offer Him daily bread and milk with love and devotion. Baba accepted and ate it appreciatingly. He took a part of this and sent the remainder with Laxmibai to Radha-Krishna-Mai who always relished and ate Baba's remnant prasad. This bread-story should not be considered as a digression; it shows, how Sai Baba pervaded all the creatures and transcended them. He is omnipresent, birthless, deathless and immortal.

Baba remembered Laxmibai's service. How could He forget her? Just before leaving the body, He put His hand in His pocket and gave her once Rs.5/- and again Rs.4/-, in all Rs.9/-. This figure (9) is indicative of the nine types of devotion described in chapter 21 or it may be the Dakshina offered at the time of Seemollanghan. Laxmibai was a well-to-do woman and so she was not in want of any money. So Baba might have suggested to her and brought prominently to her notice the nine characteristics of a good disciple mentioned in the 6th verse of chapter ten, skandha eleven of the Bhagwat, wherein first five and then four characteristics are mentioned in the first and second couplets.* Baba followed the order, first paid Rs.5/- and then Rs.4/- in all Rs.9/-. Not only nine, but many times nine rupees passed through Laxmibai's hand, but Baba's this gift of Nine, she will ever remember.

Being so watchful and conscious, Baba also took other precautions in His last moment. In order that He should not be embroiled or entangled with love and affection for His devotees, He ordered them all to clear off. Kakasaheb Dixit, Bapusaheb Booty and others were in the Masjid anxiously waiting upon Baba, but He asked them to go to the Wada and return after meals. They could not leave Baba's presence, nor could they disobey Him. So with heavy hearts and heavy feet they went to the Wada. They knew that Baba's case was very serious and that they could not forget Him. They sat for meals, but their mind was elsewhere, it was with Baba. Before they finished, news came to them of Baba's leaving the mortal coil. Leaving their dishes, they ran to the Masjid and found that Baba rested finally on Bayaji's lap. He did not fall down on the ground nor did He lie on His bed, but sitting quietly on His seat and doing charity with His own hand threw off the mortal coil. Saints embody themselves and come into this world with a definite mission and after that is fulfilled they pass away as quietly and easily as they came.

Sai Devotees can see the 9 Coins given gy Baba to Lakshmi Bhai in Lakshmi Bhai's house in Shirdi Village which is hardly 2 mintues walk from Dwarakamai. The Samadhi of Lakshmi Bhai is also present there for the devotees to have darshan.

Train Schedules for Shirdi Darshan from Bangalore

Karnataka Express - Train Number 2627

S# Stn Code Stn Name Arrival Departure Distance Day
1 SBC BANGALORE CY JN 19:20 0000 1
2 BNC BANGALORE CANT 19:30 19:35 0005 1
3 YNK YELHANKA JN 20:03 20:04 0027 1
4 HUP HINDUPUR 21:14 21:15 0111 1
5 SSPN SAI P NILAYAM 22:00 22:05 0168 1
6 DMM DHARMAVARAM JN 22:50 22:55 0201 1
7 ATP ANANTAPUR 23:29 23:30 0235 1
8 GY GOOTY 00:28 00:30 0292 2
9 GTL GUNTAKAL JN 00:50 00:55 0320 2
10 AD ADONI 01:39 01:40 0372 2
11 RC RAICHUR 02:59 03:00 0441 2
12 WADI WADI 04:55 05:00 0549 2
13 GR GULBARGA 05:39 05:40 0585 2
14 SUR SOLAPUR JN 07:30 07:40 0698 2
15 KWV KURDUVADI 08:44 08:45 0777 2
16 DD DAUND JN 10:25 10:30 0886 2
17 ANG AHMADNAGAR 11:57 12:00 0970 2
18 BAP BELAPUR 12:56 12:57 1037 2
19 KPG KOPARGAON 13:39 13:40 1081 2

Lokamanya TT Express - Train Number 1014

S# Stn Code Stn Name Arrival Departure
01 SBC BANGALORE CY JN 15:05 15:25
02 BNC BANGALORE CANT 15:35 15:37
03 HUP HINDUPUR 17:29 17:30
04 SSPN SAI P NILAYAM 18:25 18:30
05 DMM DHARMAVARAM 19:20 19:30
06 ATP ANANTAPUR 20:04 20:05
07 KLU KALLURU 20:27 20:28
08 GY GOOTY 21:04 21:05
09 GTL GUNTAKAL JN 21:35 21:40
10 AD ADONI 22:24 22:25
11 MALM MANTRALA RD 22:54 22:55
12 RC RAICHUR 23:49 23:50
13 KSN KRISHNA 00:14 00:15
14 YG YADGIR 00:44 00:45
15 WADI WADI 02:30 02:35
16 SDB SHAHABAD 02:47 02:48
17 GR GULBARGA 03:19 03:20
18 GUR GANAGAPUR RD 03:44 03:45
19 DUD DUDHANI 04:14 04:15
20 SUR SOLAPUR JN 05:25 05:35
21 KWV KURDUVADI 06:41 06:42
22 DD DAUND JN 09:10 09:15

Shirdi Express - Train Number 0677 (Runs only on Wednesday)

S# Stn Code Stn Name Arrival Departure
01 DD DAUND JN 12:00 12:10
02 ANG AHMADNAGAR 13:42 13:45
03 BAP BELAPUR 15:00 15:03
04 PB PUNTAMBA 15:45 16:00
05 SNSI SAINAGAR 16:45

Dear Sai Devotees, the above train timings are subject to change from time to time. Kindly check the train timings with Bangalore City Railway Station before starting the journey a week in advance.

If you are travelling by Karnataka Express /Lokamanya TT Express you can get down at Dound Junction and catch Shirdi Express which start from Daund Junction at 12: 00 Noon and runs only on Wednesday. Hence devotees are requested to start their journey from bangalore on Tuesday's only either by Karnataka Express/Lokamanya TT Express. The advantage of breaking the journey and boarding Shirdi Express is that you can directly arrive at Sai Nagar Station instead of Kopergaon railway station and the time difference is approximately 3 hours. In this way, you will have more option (KK Express/Lokamanya TT Express) while booking tickets to Shirdi as you are very well aware how difficult it is to book a ticket from Bangalore to Shirdi by Karnataka Express.

We hope this information is useful to all Bangalore sai devotees who are eager to have darshan of Shirdi Sainath Maharaj.

Sapthashrungi Devi of Vani (Nasik District) and Saibaba Connection

The Saptashrungi Devi temple is located at Vani near Nashik in Maharashtra. This temple is one among the 51 Shakti peethas located on the Indian subcontinent.

The Devi is said be swayambhu (self-manifested) on a rock on the sheer face of a mountain. She is surrounded by seven (sapta-in Sanskrit) peaks (shrunga-in Sanskrit), hence the name- Sapta Shrungi Mata (mother of the seven peaks). The image of the Devi is huge-about 10 feet tall with 18 hands, holding various weapons. The idol is always coated with Sindoor, which is considered auspicious in this region. She is believed to be Mahishasur Mardini, the slayer of the demon Mahishasur, who took the form of a buffalo. Hence, at the foot of the hill, from where one starts climbing the steps, there is the head of a buffalo, made is stone, and believed to be that of the demon.

It is believed that the Devi Mahatmya, a sacred book which extols the greatness of Devi and her exploits was composed at this place by the sage Markandeya, who performed rigorous penance on a hill opposite the one on which the Devi resides, which is now named after him.

The temple, which sort of sticks to the cliff, is 1230 meters above sea level. There is an old path with steps cut out of the mountain, which starts right at the foothills, at Vani and goes all the way to the mountain. However, now, a motorable road has been built, which goes up to an altitude of 1150 meters. From this place one has to climb around 500 steps to reach the shrine, which only takes about forty five minutes. For those who cannot climb even this, there are “dolis” (chairs carried by 4 people) available at Rs.200/- for the two-way trip.

Shirdi Saibaba has mentioned about the power of Sapthashrungi in "Sai Satcharitha" Chapter 30 and hence all the devotees of Shirdi Saibaba should make it a point to visit this famous goddess destination whenever they visit Shirdi. Sapthashrungi is about 100 KMS from Shirdi.

Tulja Bhavani and Dattatreya/Shirdi Saibaba Connection

Tuljapur is very famous pilgrimage centre for its Tuljabhavani temple. It is situated in Osmanabad district in the state of Maharashtra.

Getting there
By air: The nearest airport is at Aurangabad, 257 kms away.
By rail: The nearest railhead is Solapur on South Central Railway.
By road: Bombay-Tuljapur 452 kms via Solapur. Aurangabad-Tuljapur 257 kms.Solapur-Tuljapur 40 kms. Osmanabad-Tuljapur 19 kms.Pune-Tuljapur 280 kms via Solapur.

Idol of Tuljabhavani
The idol of the deity is the original idol (Swaymbhu Murti) which is made of Shaligram (black non perishable stone). The installation of the idol of deity is of 'Devipanchayatana' type. The idol is having eight hands. One hand is holding the hairs of a monster or Daitya and other hand contains Trishula or trident which is piercing the chest of the monster or Daitya. Below the leg of the idol lies Daitya or monster Mahishasura in whose chest the Trishula or trident appears to be inserted. This shows that the deity is killing the monster Mahishasura. On the right hand of the idol a lion is there which is 'Wahana' (vehicle of the deity on which the deity usually rides). Near the idol one can see the sage or Rishi Markendeya who is reciting Puranas or Hindu mythology. There is image of moon near the idol. One can see the image of sun on the right hand of the idol. In each hand of the idol one can see weapons or Ayudhas like Chakra, Gada, Trishula, Ankush, Dhanu, Pash. On the right side of the idol one can observe lady Anubhuti worshiping the deity. The lady Anubhati was the wife of Brahmin Kardama. Above the head of the idol there is small idol or 'Pindi' of lord Mahadeva. Also there is Swayanbhu Muguta or self immerged crown on the head of the deity.

History of Tuljabhavani
The history of the deity dates back to Puranas or Hindu mythology. One can find references about Tuljabhavani in Markendeya Purana. 'Durga Saptashati' which is Sanskrita epic about the godess contains thirteen chapters or Adhyaayas and seven hundred Shlokas or rhymes. This epic is a part of Markendeya Purana or mythological work by sage or Rishi Markendeya. In this treatise the spiritual meaning and way towards Karma - doings, Bhakti - devotion and Dyana - Knowledge has been shown. Other source of history is Devi Bhagvata.

Story of Tuljabhavani
There lived in "Krityuga" simple Brahmin sage by name Kardama. The name of his wife was Anubhuti. She was endowed with beauty like Rati & many good qualities. When her died, she begain preparation for " Sutee". At that juncture Divine Broadcast advised " that woman with young child need not go " Sutee". Thereafter she changed her mind & decided to practice penance in the beautiful surroundings of the river MANDAKANI. Anubhuti was Yogi. KUKAR the king of Deman saw her while she was in state of SAMADHI.Gaging at her charming beauty, sinful desire of lust sprang in the mind of KUKAR. At first he tried to win her with sweet word & having failed in attempt, with his brute force tried to commit breach of her chastity & also of her penance. Then Anubhuti prayed the GODDESS for mercy & begain to cry for help. Tulja Bhavani reponded to call & appeared immediately at the place of penance to kill the Demon KUKAR. When Tuljabhavani determined to kill the demon Kukar & began to with him, the KUAKR changed the form & assumed form of a buffalo ( MAHIASH ) & began to dance on the battlefield. On Ashwin Shudha 10, the goddess killed KUAKR & hence the day is celeberated as " VIJAYA DASHAMI. As goddess responded & rushed in haste for the protection of her devotees ,so she is called " TWARITA". Tulja is Marathi form of Twarita & goddess is known as Tulja Bhavani.

A story is being narrated in Sri Guru Charithra Chapter 44 as to how Goddess Tulja Bhavani herself directed a suspecious brahmin to Sri Gududeva Dattatreya of Ganagapur which is as below:

Nandi was a Brahmin suffering from Leprosy. He worshipped Tuljapur Bhavani for 3 years. He observed fast. He stayed near Bhuvaneshwari at Bhilavadi for 7 months and worshipped the deity devotedly. He was told in a dream to go to Shri Guru at Gangapur and that he would then be relieved of the disease.

Nandi said, 'You are Goddess yourself, how do you ask me to go to a human being. I shall be here, no matter if I have to lose my life.'

The Pujari also had similar dream. He and some others told Nandi, 'Do not trouble the Goddess hereafter and if you do not mind, we shall not allow you enter this Mandir.'

Being helpless he came to Gangapur and went to the Math and bowed to Shri Guru. Shri Guru asked him 'Leaving the Goddess, why did you come to a human being? When you doubt, how can you be relieved of the disease?'

Realizing that Shri Guru knew what was in his mind, he said, 'I am a dullard. Kindly forgive me. I have come for your shelter. Kindly protect me. I am very much harassed due to this disease. My wife also left me and went to her parents. Chandla Devi has sent me to you. Kindly do not drive me away.'

Shri Guru asked Somanath to take Nandi to the Sangam and said, "Let him bathe at the Shatkul and have rounds of the Ashwattha. Give him new clothes, throwing away his old ones and then bring him here for meals."

As advised by Shri Guru, Somanath took Nandi to the Sangam for bath. After bath his body became free from leprosy. After taking rounds of the Ashwattha, Somanath brought him back to the Math. Nandi bowed to Shri Guru and began to pray Him.

Shri Guru asked him, 'See if all your body has been free from the disease. He looked to his body and found that some patches had remained on his thigh. Being afraid he asked 'After having your blessings why these patches should be here?'

Shri Guru said, 'You came with a suspicion that what a man could do and so a little disease is there. You should stay here praying God, the little disease that is there will also be wiped off soon.'

Nandi said, 'I am illiterate. How can I compose poems of praise?'

Shri Guru asked him to draw out his tongue. When he did so, Shri Guru put little bhasma on the tip of his tongue.

Instantly he became wise. He bowed to Shri Guru and began to compose poems in praise of Shri Guru. The summary of those poems is as follows: -
'I was sinking in the worldly ocean, being deluded by the affection for my family members. I was roaming through different species as swedaj, Andaj, Udbhija and Jaraj i.e. animal life. Human life is the best of all. I had no knowledge in the Shudra birth. The birth of a Brahmin is the best amongst the human beings. But if a Brahmin is also a dullard, how can he have knowledge of Shri Guru?

The blood of the mother and the semen of the father unite and a fetus comes into existence as a bubble. After 15 days it becomes liquid. Within a month a small solid fetus is formed. I the second month the head and the limbs take shape. When the five great elements i.e. the earth, the water, the luster, the wind and the sky unite, the soul enters the fetus. In the fifth month the skin and the hair are formed. In the sixth month the fetus starts respiration. In the seventh month, the ear, the tongue, the brain and the marrow become solid. In this way I was growing in the mother's uterus. The mother would eat hot, salt, sour, pungent and acidic articles, due to which I was greatly troubled. I then took birth. My span of life was fixed. Half of the time i.e. the nights were spent in sleep in vain. The remaining half is divided in the three stages, childhood, youth and old age. In the childhood, I had to suffer much. I wept due to pain in the stomach, but my mother thought that I was hungry and took me to her breast. And when I was hungry, she thought I was ailing and gave me bitter medicines. At times due to scorpion bite, in the cradle I would cry. She would then sing lullabies and move the cradle to and fro and tried to lure me to sleep or she would think that I am affected by some spirit and so thetried Mantra - Tantra and tied a black string on my wrist. My mother would take pungent and sour articles and I had to suffer from diarrhea, cough etc.

In the youth, I was influenced by passion. I disregarded the parents and the guru and always thought about the female-sex. Due to vanity, I despised Sadhus, saints and old persons. How could have I adored Shri Guru during this period?
In the old age cough, gases and other troubles affected me. My hair became white while taking care of my family and children. I lost my teeth, I could not hear well and see properly. Even in this state I did not serve Shri Guru. You are the protector and liberator of the universe. Please liberate me.'

Illiterate Nandi composed such poems. All wondered to see his feat Nandi further said, 'Vedas say that the feet of Shri Guru are holy there is no other way than the feet of Shri Guru, to be free from the worldly sea. By the favor of Shri Guru, all my sins are wiped off. Shri Guru Narasimha Saraswati is like Kamadhenu. So people should adore him and get liberated.
Nandi was later called 'Kavishwar' due to his poetry. The patches of leprosy on his thigh also disappeared in course of time. Nandi greatly rejoiced at the cure. He began to serve Shri Guru with more devotion.

Sri Shirdi Saibaba being the avatara of Dattatreya, we thought it is opt to mention this great story and the importance of Tuljapur Bhavani. We request all the Sai Devotees not to miss the golden opportunity of visiting Tuljapur Bhavani at least once in his/her lifetime and get the blessings of the Goddess Bhavani.

SAINAGAR RAILWAY STATION INAUGURAL

Thousands of devotees who flock to Shirdi to catch a glimpse of Sai Baba will be blessed with a direct train from Sunday. The train will leave CST at 10.55 pm and reach Shirdi at 10.30 am the next day.

The much-awaited service will be flagged off by Union railway minister Lalu Prasad. "The inaugural train will flagged off on Saturday at 3 pm. But it will be from Puntamba to Shirdi. Regular services will commence from Sunday,' an official said.

"Putamba station is on the Manmad-Daund section of the CR. It is about 70 km from Manmad and about 20 km from Shirdi. Earlier, after reaching Puntamba the only way to get to Shirdi was by road. With the completion of the Puntamba-Shirdi rail project, pilgrims will be able to reach Shirdi without any break in journey,' said chief PRO, CR, S C Mudgerikar. Initially, there would be just one service per day. "But depending on the demand, we can increase services subsequently,' he added.

Even though the project was sanctioned in 2000-01 at a cost of Rs 30.22 crore, its execution got delayed. "Getting land from the state government took longer than expected,' an official said.

Shirdi station will include two waiting rooms and a dormitory. "The building is aesthetically designed with a touch of local architecture. It will have a 500 metre-long platform to accommodate a 22-coach train,' an official said. The entire project has been completed at a cost of Rs 78 crore.


From CST to temple town - About 12hours

Route - CST- Dadar- Thane- Kalyan- Pune- Daund- Ahmednagar- Puntamba-Shirdi

Distance - 457Km

Halts -  22

Bookings for the first train From Saturday 28th Feb'2009

Average ticket prices - Rs 130

Station to shrine - A 10-minute walk -
Sainagar shirdi railway station, just 2kms distance from shri sai samadhi temple, shirdi, maharashtra.


Routes planned -

Igatpuri- Nasik- Manmad- Puntamba- Shirdi

CST- Manmad- Puntamba- Shirdi


Coach composition-

1 AC three-tier,

2 three-tier non-AC,

2 general seating compartments, 1 luggage-cum-seating compartment


Timings -
Leaves CST at 10.55 pm reaches Shirdi at 10.30 am

Return train: Leaves Shirdi at 4.40 pm, reaches CST at 4.25 am

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Mumbai/From-Sunday-Sai-devotees-can-take-a-train-to-Shirdi/articleshow/4197980.cms

STATION INAUGURAL PHOTOS