Why Thousands Are Skipping Shirdi and Heading to This Temple Near Pune Instead

The Prati Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, located in Shirgaon near Pune, is emerging as a popular destination for devotees seeking a peaceful and accessible spiritual experience. Modeled after the original Shirdi Sai Baba temple in Ahmednagar district, Prati Shirdi offers a similar ambiance and religious atmosphere without the long travel, especially for residents of Pune and Mumbai.

Built as a replica of the famous Shirdi shrine, the temple allows devotees to seek the blessings of Sai Baba while staying closer to home. The structure replicates important features such as the Dwarkamai, Samadhi Mandir, and Gurusthan, and attracts thousands of visitors daily. The temple is also known for its cleanliness, calm surroundings, and well-maintained facilities.

How to Reach the Temple

The Prati Shirdi temple is situated in Shirgaon village, located around 40-50 kilometers from Pune, near Talegaon. It is easily accessible via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. Visitors traveling from Pune need to drive towards Mumbai for about 35 km, take the exit at Somatane toll plaza, and drive another 2 km to reach the temple.

For those not using private transport, Talegaon railway station is just 10 km away from the temple. MSRTC buses are also available regularly from Pune and Mumbai to Talegaon. From there, auto-rickshaws can be hired to reach the temple for around ₹50-60 per person.

Temple Timings and Activities

The temple opens daily at 5 AM and remains accessible to devotees until 10 PM. Morning aarti begins at 5 AM while the evening aarti is held at 8 PM. Thursdays witness the highest number of devotees, being the most auspicious day for Sai Baba worship.

Inside the temple, visitors can witness a life-size marble idol of Sai Baba at Dwarkamai. The hall also includes a wooden bed and palanquin, replicating the setting where Baba once lived and preached. The temple constantly plays holy chants that create a serene atmosphere.

History and Significance

Prati Shirdi was the vision of Sai devotees Mr. Y.D. Phadke and Mr. Prakash Deole, who started building the temple in 2003 to make Sai Baba’s presence accessible to people in and around Pune. The temple was completed and opened in 2007. Over the years, it has grown into a well-known place of worship.

Built using traditional Rajasthani marble and stone, the temple includes major landmarks such as Gurusthan, where a neem tree and shrine replicate the sacred spot of Baba’s samadhi in Shirdi.

Prasad Meals and Facilities

The temple complex also includes a Prasadalaya, where lunch and dinner are served to devotees. Meals are offered daily for a nominal coupon of ₹50 per person. Lunch is available between 12 PM and 3 PM, and dinner between 6 PM and 9 PM.

There are spacious lawns and areas for quiet meditation. Visitors can also walk around the temple in a parikrama or sit quietly to absorb the peaceful surroundings.

For devotees who cannot travel all the way to Shirdi, Prati Shirdi offers a meaningful and fulfilling alternative. With its well-planned structure, spiritual energy, and ease of access, the temple has become a top choice for those seeking peace, prayer, and a divine connection close to home.