There is a neem tree in Shirdi where Baba’s whole story began — and very few pilgrims stop there. 🚩
Inside the Samadhi Mandir complex is a place called Gurusthan. This is the neem tree under which, around 1854, a 16-year-old youth was first found sitting — deep in penance.
🌳 Why Gurusthan is special
Gurusthan means “the place of the Guru.” It is the spot where Baba was first seen in Shirdi.
This place is bound to my Guru.
— Sai Baba, on Gurusthan
🪔 What is here today
The same neem tree still stands at Gurusthan. Beneath it is a small shrine with Baba’s portrait, a Shivling, and an idol of Nandi.
Devotees light agarbatti here. It is believed that lighting incense at Gurusthan fulfils one’s wishes — and many call it the quietest, most sacred corner of all Shirdi.
✨ When you visit
After darshan at the Samadhi Mandir, do go to Gurusthan. The crowd is thinner here — sit a few moments. This is where it all began: Baba’s journey, which has become the faith of crores today.
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🙏 Om Sai Ram.