Category: Temple
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Tags: Spiritual, Worship, Peaceful Retreat
Overview:
The Shirdi Sai Baba Temple in Chennai is a serene and revered place of worship dedicated to the esteemed 18th-century saint, Sai Baba of Shirdi. Established in 1952 by Narasimha Swamiji, this temple has grown to be a spiritual center for hundreds of thousands of devotees. Known for its inclusive atmosphere, the temple welcomes people from all religions, reflecting Sai Baba's message of love and unity.
Key Features:
- Inclusive Worship: Special readings of the Quran, Bible, and Hindu texts, promoting religious harmony.
- Agni Puja: The eternal flame from Shirdi is worshipped during the Sunday Agni Puja.
- Architectural Beauty: The temple features a stunning white marble idol of Sai Baba and a golden arch in the shrine.
Things to Do:
- Attend Religious Services: Participate in the Quran reading on Thursdays or the Bible reading on Sundays.
- Visit the Flame: Pay respects to the eternal flame, said to be from the original flame lit by Sai Baba.
- Festival Celebrations: Experience the vibrant Navaratri celebrations and other important spiritual festivals like Guru Purnima.
Architecture:
The temple boasts a striking white marble structure with a golden arch. The marble idol of Sai Baba sits on a silver throne, and the temple also houses shrines of Lord Rama and Krishna.
Tips for Visiting:
- Best Time to Visit: Thursdays and Sundays are ideal to experience the temple’s religious activities.
- Respect the Harmony: Embrace the diverse spiritual practices observed at the temple.
How to Reach:
Located in Mylapore, the temple is easily accessible by public transport, including buses, autos, and cabs. From central Chennai, it takes about 30 minutes by car.
