Thousands and lakhs of people in India and belonging to the Indian diaspora around the world look forward to Guru Poornima celebrations every year. This auspicious day, also the birthday of the seer Veda Vyasa, falls a day before the commencement of Shravan month.
Dedicated to all the teachers and mentors, who selflessly help humans evolve and become a better version of their self, Guru Poornima is celebrated with much enthusiasm across different places, Guru lineages and traditions. One such special destination, where Guru Poornima celebrations evoke awe and reverence is Shirdi in Maharashtra.
Shirdi Sai Baba’s connection with Guru Poornima
All about Guru Poornima Celebration in Shirdi
If you are in Shirdi on this special day, be sure to experience a devotion-soaked experience. The worship rituals begin with a holy bath of Sai Baba idol with milk, curd, water, rose water and other sacred items. Then after, the idol is worshipped with Kakad Aarti at 5:30 AM and the day is concluded with Shej Aarti at 10 PM. The Palki Yatra (Palanquin Procession) starts at 4 PM with the beat of percussion instruments, chariot and horses. The devotees carry miniature flags during the procession, while renowned bhajan singer sings devotional songs to add more ecstasy to the scene.
The celebrations last for three consecutive days, during which the devotees are allowed to perform non-stop parayan (or recitation) of Sai Satcharitra (biography of Sai Baba) at the Dwarkamai.
On this day, Shirdi Sai Sansthan serves consecrated food to each and every devotee; therefore, preparations are done way in advance to accomplish this purpose.
It goes without saying that being in Shirdi on Guru Poornima is a blessing that one gets so effortlessly.
