🚩 There’s a small temple in Shirdi where Baba was called “Sai” for the first time. And that was the moment the name “Saibaba” was born.
Most devotees in Shirdi visit Samadhi Mandir, Dwarkamai, Chavadi, Lendi Baug. But there’s one temple whose story comes before all of these — Khandoba Mandir. And it is a beautiful one.
🕉️ Who is Khandoba?
🙏 Mhalsapati — Baba’s first devotee
The priest of the Khandoba temple was Mhalsapati. A simple, devout priest.
When Baba first came to Shirdi in 1854 — a young man of about sixteen — it was Mhalsapati who was the first villager to recognise him for what he was. The rest of the village laughed and called him a “mad fakir”; children threw stones at him. But Mhalsapati saw it at first sight: this was no ordinary young man.
🌸 1858 — the historic moment
Baba stayed in Shirdi for three years, then suddenly disappeared. Some time later, in 1858, he returned — this time arriving with the wedding procession of Chand Patil.
When the procession’s bullock carts halted at the edge of Shirdi — right beside the Khandoba temple — Mhalsapati was standing outside.
The moment he saw Baba step down from the cart, he recognised the same young fakir who had been in the village three years before. His eyes filled. And from his lips, naturally, came:
“Ya Sai!”
(Welcome, Sai!)
— Mhalsapati, Khandoba Mandir, 1858
Sai — meaning a saint, a holy soul. It was a word of reverence; it was a welcome.
From that moment on — Baba began to be called Saibaba. And that name is now on the lips of crores of devotees.
🛕 Khandoba Mandir today
Khandoba Mandir is just a short walk from Samadhi Mandir. It’s small, plain — but full of history.
When you stand there, just think: And a name was made — one that lives in every devotee’s heart today.