Chapter – 2 Spiritual Centre (Sansthan) Profile

Chapter – 2

Spiritual Centre (Sansthan) Profile

1 2.1 Shree Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan, Shegaon.

2.1.1 Sansthan Profile

Name of the Spiritual Shree Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan, Shegaon. Centre

Name of the Spiritual Shree Gajanan Maharaj. Guru

Established on 12 / 09 / 1908

Registration No.

Address Shegaon Bk., Tal: Shegaon, Dist: Buldhana, Maharashtra.

How to Reach

By Train: Shegaon is A- Class Central Railway station located on Mumbai-Nagpur track. There are trains to Shegaon from Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkatta, Bangalore, and Aurangabad. Barring the very few superfast trains, all other trains have a halt at Shegaon Station. 120 k. m. from Bhusawal Approx. 3 hour journey.

By Road: Shegaon is at a distance of 16 k. m. from khamgaon on the NH- 6. The distance to Shegaon from the nearby major cities in k. m. and (in hours) is – from Aurangabad 225 k. m. (4 hours), from Bhusawal 120 k. m. (3 hours), and from Nagpur it is 300 k. m. (6 hours).

By Air: The nearby Airports are Aurangabad and Nagpur at a distance of 5 hours. The air route is from Delhi – Mumbai – Aurangabad, from Bangalore - Mumbai – Aurangabad. The other route is from Delhi – Nagpur, from Chennai – Nagpur, and from Kolkatta – Nagpur.

Table No 2.1.1

1 www: gajananmaharaj.org

2.1.2 Geographical Location

Geographical Location on the map of Maharashtra

Shree Gajanan Maharaj, Shegaon

2.1.3 Brief History of the Spiritual Guru

Shree Gajanan Maharaj of Shegaon, Buldhana District, Maharashtra, was a very well-known and much worshipped Saint from all over India and around the globe. The Spiritual Centre in the name of "Sant Shri Gajanan Maharaj" is the largest and most famous Spiritual Centre in the Vidarbha region of the state of Maharashtra.

The Appearance:

The exact date of birth and the earlier life history of “Shri Gajanan Maharaj” is unknown. But his first known appearance in Shegaon was on 23rd February 1878 when he was approximately in his 20s.

The Disciples:

Das Ganu Maharaj, a famous disciple of Sant Shri Gajanan Maharaj has written a biography, of Gajanan Maharaj in Marathi named as "Shri Gajanan Vijay." Dasganu Maharaj has mentioned in his book "Shree Gajanan Vijay" that Gajanan Maharaj often called some people as his brothers such as Shree Narasingji, Shree Vasudevanand Saraswati (Tembhe Swami Maharaj), Sai Baba and the great saints in that period. All this clearly indicates that Gajanan Maharaj was pure incarnation of the supreme power. The devotees of Shree Gajanan Maharaj believe him as an incarnation of Lord Dattatreya. According to the devotees, the appearing of Shri Gajanan Maharaj in human avatar was mere a Leela of Shri Gajanan Maharaj, as he was simply the Brahmadnyani.

The Divine Powers:

Lot of similarities has also been observed in between Shree Swami Samarth and Shree Gajanan Maharaj. Both were AjanBahu, Paramahans Sanyasi and many others. Many devotees and followers say that during the lifetime Shri Gajanan maharaj did many miracles like giving a fresh lease on life to Janrao Deshmukh, without fire lighting the clay-pipe, filling water in to the dry well, twisting the sugar canes with his hands and taking the juice out of the same, curing a man

33 from leprosy, curing himself of the many bites of honey bees and so on. It is believed that the reason behind such acts by Shri Gajanan Maharaj was only because he knew the Yoga Shastra.

The Samadhi:

On 8 September 1910 Shree Gajanan Maharaj's soul left for the heavenly abode. The earthly remains of Shree Gajanan Maharaj were buried and the temple was built on the Samadhi of Shree Gajanan Maharaj at Shegaon. Shree Gajanan Maharaj had predicted his time on the earth was about to come to an end. The devotees had already started building the temple in his honor much before the Samadhi-din of Shree Gajanan Maharaj. The dhooni which was started by Shri Gajanan Maharaj is still burning and is placed near the Samadhi mandir.

The Board of Trustees of the Spiritual Centre

(Shree Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan, Shegaon)

Sr. No. Name of the Trustees Position held

1 DR. Rameshchandra Champalalji Dangra. President

2 Shri. Shivshankar Sukdeo Ganesh Patil Managing Trustee

3 Shri. Chandulalji Kisanlalji Agrawal. Trustee

4 Shri. Mahadeo Pundalik Ganesh Patil. Trustee

5 Shri. Kishor Trikamdas Taak. Trustee

6 Shri. Govind Sukhdeorao Kalore. Trustee

7 Shri. Nilkanth Shivshankar Ganesh Patil. Trustee

8 Shri. Ashok Tryambakrao Deshmukh. Trustee

9 Shri. Naravanrao Yadavrao Patil. Trustee

10 Shri. Shrikant Shivshankar Ganesh Patil. Trustee

11 Shri. Vishveshwar Shaligram Trikal. Trustee

12 Shri. Pankaj Gajanan Shitut. Trustee

2.1.4 The Activities of the Sansthan

Shree Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan, Shegaon is the one of the biggest Temple Trust in the state of Maharashtra. Due to the Divine powers and Supernatural qualities of Shri. Gajanan Maharaj the Spiritual Center (Sansthan) has really become the Power Center for the Visitors and Devotees scattered not only all over the country, but also all over the world. The Sansthan is situated at a ten minutes walk able distance from the Shegaon Railway Station (B- class station on the Mumbai – Nagpur route of Central Rail) in the Buldhana District of Maharashtra. The Bus stand is also just on the way of the Sansthan, which is connected by Gujarath and Madhya- Pradesh States.

The most interesting fact about the Sansthan is that, it has been registered in the holy presence of the Spiritual Guru Shri. Gajanan Maharaj in the year 1908, in a meeting called by the Devotees, local community, the local Merchants held on 12/09/1908. The most inspiring thing for the Devotees was the words of Shri Gajanan Maharaj --- “YA JAAGI RAHEEL” having the meaning of “WILL STAY HERE”. Hence the Sansthan was formed with the due respect to the Will and Words of Shri Gajanan Maharaj giving the idea and indication of His presence will be here and He will stay here only.

Currently the Sansthan is operating its activities and functions through the various Departments, like

1 Abhishak and Pooja 19 Pathology

2 Donations 20 Physiotherapy

3 Prasad Distribution 21 Mahaprasad

4 Prasadalaya (Dining Hall) 22 Sewadhari

5 Security 23 Aadivasi Vikas

6 Money order 24 Warkari Shikshan

7 Postage 25 Engineering College

8 Construction 26 Mobile Hospital

9 Water supply 27 Medical Help

10 Cleaning and Maintenance 28 Rural Health Service Scheme

11 Footwear service 29 English Medium school

12 Parking service 30 Temple Bhakta Niwas

13 Vehicle 31 General Bhakta Niwas

14 Ayurvedic 32 Anand Vihar Bhakta Niwas

15 Homoeopathic 33 Anandsagar Visawa Niwas

16 Allopathic 34 Gifts

17 Handicapped Rehabilitation 35 First Aid Centre

18 Optometry Eye camp 36 Band and Music

Prasadalaya

The food in the form of “Prasad” is distributed to the Visitors and Devotees on a very large volume that to on a regular basis. Daily more than 20,000 Visitors and Devotees enjoys the Prasad in a special hall called as the “Prasadalaya” having the seating capacity of approximately 5,000 Devotees at a time. The most important thing is that the Prasad is distributed absolutely free of cost to the Visitors and Devotees. The Prasad usually consists of “Roti - Vegetables, Rice, and Sweets” etc. The Sansthan has many such Prasadalaya, wherein the Prasad is distributed to more than 45,000 Visitors and Devotees on a daily basis. Generally, the volume of the Visitors and Devotees during the “Special Events”, „‟Festive Seasons”, and on weekends typically ranges in between 1, 50,000 to 1, 75,000 per day. For the preparation of the Prasad on such a huge volume requires the huge amount food grains of more than 48, 000 quintals of Wheat, Rice, and Sugar and Vegetables. The food preparation is done with the help of “Roti Making

Machine” by the Volunteers with a great level of interest and service motive, and more importantly very calmly, quietly in less than 12 hours.

Accommodation

Thousands of the Visitors and Devotees daily visit the Sansthan for the worshipment of the Spiritual Guru from all over the country. So as to serve the basic need of the Visitors and Devotees, the Sansthan has the arrangement and Facility of the Accommodation on a very large scale. This facility is generally called as the “Bhakta Niwas”. In total there are 6 Bhakta Niwas made available by the Sansthan exclusively for the convenience of the Visitors and Devotees totaling to 1, 813 Rooms and 96 Dormitory Halls. In addition to this the Sansthan has the emergency arrangement of 2, 500 Beds as per the requirement especially during the Special Evements, Festive Seasons and Weekends. The overall break-up of the total rooms in the various Bhakta Niwas of the Sansthan can be summarized as below:-

Total Accommodation facility at Shree Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan

Name of the Bhakta Niwas Total Rooms Dormitory Halls

Mandir Parisar BhaktaNiwas No.1 and 161 Nil 2

Bhakta Niwas No. 3, 4, 5 and 6 417 Nil

Anand Vihar Bhakta Niwas 677 24

Anand Sagar Visawa 558 72

Total Accommodation 1, 813 96

Table No. 2.1.4

Services

The great Faith of the “Devotees” in the Spiritual Guru especially at the Sansthan, brings out the Service Motive of the Devotees to serve with a greater degree of Loyalty. Taking into account the huge crowd daily at the Sansthan, has initiated the Sansthan to start and run the “Devotee Service Department” exclusively for serving the large number of the Visitors and Devotees daily visiting the Sansthan. The calm and quiet, the most disciplined and obedient Volunteers is the remarkable feature of the Sansthan. The Volunteers are mentally and most importantly wholeheartedly involved in the services of the Visitors and Devotees at the Sansthan. During the Special Events, Festive Seasons, Holidays and Weekends there is a huge crowd at the Sansthan, and to serve such a huge crowd there are almost 9, 000 Volunteers across the 360 nearby Villages engaged in offering their services to Visitors and Devotees. In addition to this, there is a waiting list of applications of almost 5,000 Volunteers ready to offer their services at the Sansthan. The Sansthan, as per the requirement informs such Volunteers on the waiting list through the letter, and the Volunteers join the services of the Sansthan exactly at a specified date. This Service Motive of the Volunteers is just something, which cannot be explained in the words. The Volunteers are basically from the villages in the local area around the Sansthan like

Belkhed (Kamtha) Kasura Dhorapgaon

Kinhi Savdad. Dhotra Naik Vadegaon

Easoli Dahigaon Wankhed

Chhanni Manjari Aakolkhed

Shirla Talegaon (Davala) Malegaon

Pivandal Vihigaon Dhanori

Shirala Mhalungi Pimpalkhed

Vairagad Aadgaon Mundgaon

Belkhed (Telhara) Kinhi Naik Raykhed

Nandura Aatali Hingani

Matargaon Ambetakli Gadegaon

Pimpari Korade Pathardi Aakoli Jahangir

Raher Talegaon Dahigaon Matoda

Narkhed Kotha Javala

Degaon Toranwada Changalvadi

Kherda Gosavi Bhakare Kawala

Kajikhed Raundala Takarkhed

Morgaon Dongargaon

Publication

The Sansthan has circulated and distributed till now 16823 sets of spiritual musical instruments absolutely free of cost. This musical instrument set comprises of 10 Taljodi, 1 Mridang, 1 Veena, 1 Hatori each. In addition to the musical instruments, the Sansthan also circulates and distributes the Spiritual publication of “Shree Dyneneshwari”, “Tukaram Maharaj Abhang Gatha” and “ Shree Eaknathi Bhagwat”. In addition to this, , Shri. Dasganu Maharaj the great disciple of Shri. Gajanan Maharaj wrote official Granth “Shree. Gajanan Vijay” has been published in 48 Editions till now totaling to the distribution of 17,57,000 copies of the same, not only in Marathi, but also in, Hindi, English, Gujarati, Kannada, Telugu, and Tamil languages.

Medical Services

The Sansthan is doing a lot of work in the form of Medical Services, through various Medical Departments established for the benefit of the needy, and the poor. Since 1963, the Ayurvedic Medical Department has served and supplied the Ayurvedic medicines to almost 25, 29,384 patients till 31 March 2017. Since 1973, the Homoeopathic Medical Department has served and supplied the Homoeopathic medicines to almost 43, 52,871 patients till 31 March 2017. Since 1974, the Allopathic Medical Department has served and supplied the Allopathic medicines to almost 88, 37,803 patients till 31 March 2017.

Since long time the Handicapped Rehabilitation Department has served 3, 27,001 patients and supplied the 6,172 Jaipur Foot, Calipers, Cycles and financial assistance for the operation till 31 March 2017. There was also one camp for the handicapped wherein 2584 patients were treated and 400 handicapped were selected for the operative treatment at “Udaipur”, and the Wheelchairs, Tricycles, and Calipers etc. were distributed among 418 handicapped patients. Since 1975, the Optometry and Eye Medical Department has served and supplied the Optometric medicines and treatment to almost 13,642 patients till 31 March 2017. The patients are also provided with the Accommodation and Food facility absolutely free of cost. The Government of Maharashtra has awarded the Sansthan in the year 1982 - 83 and 1983 - 84 for its outstanding contribution for the Handicapped Rehabilitation and Optometry Treatment Program.

In the year 1982 the Sansthan started a Mobile Allopathic Hospital to serve the patients from the rural area not having official Government Hospital. In addition to this the Sansthan has also started 2 more Mobile Allopathic Hospital to serve the “Aadiwasi” people. In addition to this the Sansthan also provides a Financial Assistance and Help for the needy and genuine Economically Backward patients. The Sansthan is also running a “Rural Health Service Scheme” wherein the beneficiaries more than 12, 00,000 poor, needy, economically backward and more importantly the farmers from 2, 45,262 families scattered in 1139 villages of 13 Tehsils of the Buldhana District. Till 31 March, 2017 total 48,121 patients took 40 the benefit of the said “Rural Health Service Scheme” out of which 33,503 were actually were operated.

Amusement Park (Anand Sagar)

The Sansthan is motivated and inspired from the quote “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinaha” (means everybody should be happy and satisfied) is working in the direction to make the society happy and satisfied. The Sansthan has got 250 acres of the land from the Government of Maharashtra on Shegaon – Balapur road under the scheme of “Lake Beautification”. The Sansthan has its own premises of 50 acres attached to the land given by the Government. This premise is to be used by the Sansthan for the Religious, Spiritual, Social and Educational purpose oriented projects. The Sansthan has the following objects in developing above mentioned projects such as –

 Water conservation  Protection of the Culture and Spirituality  Protection of the Natural Resources  Protection of the Secularism  Co-ordination between the Science and Religiosity

Through Anand Sagar the Sansthan is making an attempt to build the conductive atmosphere to contribute in National integrity, protection of Cultural Values, Spiritual Values, Family values. The Sansthan is currently running the following projects and services for the Visitors and Devotees such as

Swami Vivekanand Meditation Centre

This is the most remarkable centre, which is just a replica of the statue of Swami Vivekanand at Kanya Kumari. An artificial island of 300 feet in length, 60 feet width and 40 feet in height has been created in a lake in the Anand Sagar, wherein a Meditation Hall of 60 feet of length and 40 feet in width is ready. The statue of

Swami Vivekanand is a great source of inspiration and motivation to the Devotees. The curvy roads, the bigger Umbrella on the statue, the lighting etc. on the island adds to the Spiritual atmosphere at the Meditation Centre.

Statue of the 18 Spiritual Gurus at the entrance

18 Statues of the Saints and Spiritual Guru have been arranged in a half circle shaped area near the Entrance of the Anand Sagar. The basic idea behind these statues is to create an atmosphere characterized with Global Peace, Religious Harmony taking the inspiration from the Saints and Spiritual Guru. The statue of the Spiritual Guru Shree Gajanan Maharaj is situated exactly at the centre of the other statues of the Saints and Spiritual Gurus. The musical fountains have also been fitted simply to add the glory at the place.

Tree Plantation

A remarkable and outstanding work done by the Sansthan is in the form of plantation of approximately 2, 25,000 different trees on the unproductive land. This is an attempt by the Sansthan to create the Geological Environment, to protect the same and also to maintain the natural balance of the same. The plants like Kadunimba, Sisam, Siras, Pimpal, Karanj, Audumber, Buch etc. have been cultivated in a Sansthan`s Nursery for the plantation purpose.

Mini Train

The Sansthan has provided the Mini Train just for the Visitors and Devotees for the all-round visit to the complete “Anand Sagar”. The Rail route for 3 kilometers have been built up which enables the all- round visit of “Anand Sagar” within 20 minutes.

Entertainment and Games

So as to entertain the Visitors and Devotees and more importantly the children‟s the Sansthan has provided the various games and entertainment toys with modern 42 technology in the “Anand Sagar”. These games give the feelings of satisfaction and enjoyment to the Visitors at the “Amusement Park”.

The official Branch Network of the Sansthan

The Sansthan is having the official Branch Network operating in the other various Worship / Spiritual Centers at the following locations –

Sr. No. Name of the Branch

1. Shree Kshetra Pandharpur

2. Shree Kshetra Alandi

3. Shree Kshetra Tryambakeshwar

4. Shree Kshetra Omkareshwar

5. Shree Kshetra Girada

6. Shree Kshetra Kapildhara

7. Shree Kshetra Aadgaon and Akoli Jahagir

1. Shree Kshetra Pandharpur Branch – It is the very first official branch of the Sansthan, having the Temple of Shree Gajanan Maharaj in a land of almost 8.5 Acres. Here also the Sansthan has provided well equipped 285 Rooms in all 5 Bhakta Niwas exclusively for the Visitors and Devotees. The accommodation and the Prasad are made available to the Visitors and Devotees at a nominal rate by the Sansthan. The Visitors and Devotees arriving at late night are offered the Prasad at free of cost by the Sansthan. The Special Events are also celebrated at the Branch by the Sansthan; wherein the Prasad is distributed absolutely free of cost to more than 3, 00,000 Visitors and Devotees at the branch. The Sansthan has built 2 Buildings for the social

activities of the Public interest. Here, at the Branch, the Homoeopathic Dispensary is also run by the Sansthan. The Sansthan has purchased 18 acres of land in Pandharpur, and the Sansthan has the plans to develop the land and to utilize the same in the best possible manner as per the holy wish of Shree Gajanan Maharaj. The Musical instruments and the holy print materials of the Saints and Spiritual Gurus (Pothi and Grantha) for the spirituality purposes are also distributed by this branch of the Santhan among the Visitors and Devotees.

2. Shri Kshetra Aalandi The temple of Shri Gajanan Maharaj is about to be ready at this branch of the Sansthan. Here also, almost 120 Attached Rooms in all the 3 Bhakta Niwaas have been made available to the Visitors and Devotees on payment of the nominal charges. The Visitors and Devotees arriving at late in the night are offered the Prasad absolutely free of cost. Here, at this branch also the Special Events are celebrated by the Sansthan, wherein more than 40,000 Visitors and Devotees are offered the Prasad free of cost. The Musical instruments and the holy print materials of the Saints and Spiritual Gurus (Pothi and Grantha) for the spirituality purposes are also distributed by this branch of the Santhan among the Visitors and Devotees. The Sansthan runs the Mobile Medical Hospital for the Visitors and Devotees. The needy Visitors and Devotees gets the emergency medical treatment and medicines free of cost.

3. Shree Kshetra Tryambakeshwar The temple of Shri Gajanan Maharaj is made of the marble. Here also, almost 205 Rooms in all the 4 Bhakta Niwaas have been made available to the Visitors and Devotees on payment of the nominal charges. The Visitors and Devotees arriving at late in the night are offered the Prasad absolutely free of cost. Here, at this branch also the Special Events are celebrated by the Sansthan, wherein more than 50,000 Visitors and

Devotees are offered the Prasad free of cost. The Musical instruments and the holy print materials of the Saints and Spiritual Gurus (Pothi and Grantha) for the spirituality purposes are also distributed by this branch of the Santhan among the Visitors and Devotees. The Sansthan runs the Mobile Medical Hospital for the Visitors and Devotees. The needy Visitors and Devotees gets the emergency medical treatment and medicines free of cost, both at the Shree Gajanan Maharaj Mandir and also at the Saint Shree Nivrutti Maharaj Mandir. The clothes are distributed among approximately 10, 000 to 12, 000 needy and the poor during the “Wari” (on foot) of Saint Shree Nivrutti Maharaj.

4. Shree Kshetra Omkareshwar The temple of Shri Gajanan Maharaj is made of the marble. Here also, almost 120 Rooms in all the 4 Bhakta Niwaas have been made available to the Visitors and Devotees on payment of the nominal charges. The Visitors and Devotees arriving at late in the night are offered the Prasad absolutely free of cost. Here, at this branch also the Special Events are celebrated by the Sansthan, wherein more than 20,000 Visitors and Devotees are offered the Prasad free of cost. The Visitors and Devotees arriving at late in the night are offered the Prasad absolutely free of cost. At this branch of Omkareshwar, during the “Mahashivratri” the Prasad is distributed to more than 2, 00,000 Visitors and Devotees. Also the Visitors and Devotees are provided with the pedal as an emergency arrangement for their halt. The Sansthan runs in the name of “Punyashlok Ahilyabai Memorial Mobile Allopath Medical Hospital” for the Visitors and Devotees. The needy Visitors and Devotees gets the emergency medical treatment and medicines free of cost. The drinking water arrangement for the Devotees on the route of the “Narmada Parikrama”, the arrangement of the “Tin shed” for the female Devotees for bathing and cloth changing are also made by the Sansthan.

5. Shree kshetra Girda The Sansthan has 50 Acers of land full of greenery in a calm and quiet area near the Ajantha Mountains. The Sansthan has the plans to develop this place as a centre for spiritual meditation in the near future. Tha Sansthan also has the plans to build a “Devotee Quarters” at this place. The Shree Swayamprakash Maharaj Memorial Centre has been completed now. In addition to this the Sansthan has the plan to start the project to benefit the masses irrespective of the Castes and Religions such as- o Aayurved and Homoeopathic Research Centre o Naturopathy Centre o Mobile Dispensary o The Hospital o Eco Tourism Centre. o Open Theatre o Handicraft o Arrangement of the Spiritual Camps o Memorial and Exhibition Centre 6. Shree kshetra Kapildhara The Memorial Centre and the Temple of Shri Gajanan Maharaj is under construction right now. This branch is in the Tribal area, and hence as a part of the social responsibility the Sansthan has decided to make available the School, the Hostel and the Hospital for the benefit of the masses. The Sansthan on the auspicious occasion of Diwali distributes the Prasad along with the clothes to almost 60, 000 needy and poor in the “Tribal Community”. The Sansthan runs the Mobile Medical Hospital for the tribal community. The needy Visitors and Devotees gets the emergency medical treatment and medicines free of cost. 7. Shree Kshetra Aadgaon and Akoli Jahagir This is the official branch of the Sansthan. The great disciple of Shree Gajanan Maharaj, Shree Bhaskar Maharaj Samadhi is at this branch of the Sansthan.

Remarkable features of the Sansthan

1. The Sansthan is totally self reliant. 2. The services offered by the Sansthan are well planned. 3. The Sansthan is spending each and every rupee earned towards the human welfare. 4. Daily transactions are duly checked and signed by the Trustees of the Sansthan before closing the office. 5. The Records and audits are checked and audited by the Chartered Accountants annually. 6. The 1/10 of the Donations received is returned back to the Donor in the form of Prasad and Cloth. 7. The cloth donated by the Donor is distributed among the other Devotees as a Prasad. 8. The meeting of the Trustees is held every quarter, wherein all the Resolutions have been passed with full majority till today since 1908.

Anandvihar Niwas

Anandsagar 47

Meditation Centre

Statue of Gurus

Tree Plantation

2.2 Shree Saibaba Sansthan Trust, Shirdi.2

2.2.1 Sansthan Profile

Name of the Shree Saibaba Sansthan Trust, Shirdi Spiritual Centre

Name of the Shree Saibaba, Shirdi Spiritual Guru

S. C. Established on 27 October 1918

Trust Registered in 1952

Registration No. E-69, Ahmednagar

Address Shirdi, Tal: Rahata, Dist: Ahmednagar, Maharashtra.

How to Reach

By Rail: New Railway station called as Sainagar, Shirdi commenced in March 2009. Trains from Mumbai, Chennai, Vishakhapattanam, Kakinada, Mysore and Hyderabad and from all the major Rail Stations in India have Shirdi on its map.

By Road: Shirdi is on the Ahmednagar-Manmad State Highway No. 10. Shirdi is 83 k.m. from Ahmednagar and 15 k.m. from Kopergaon. It is 240 k.m. from Mumbai on the Express Highway. Shirdi is 204 k. m. from Pune and it takes approximately 3 Hrs. and 40 Minutes..

By Air: Shirdi Airport has been recently started on 1st Oct. 2017. It has three destinations such as Mumbai, Hyderabad and Delhi. Nearest Airports are Aurangabad at a distance of 115 k.m. and Pune at 186 k.m.

Table No. 2.2.1

2 www: sai.org.in

2.2.2 Geographical Location

Geographical Location on the map of Maharashtra

Shree Sai Baba, Shirdi

2.2.3 Brief History of the Spiritual Guru

The Appearance:

Shree Sai Baba of Shirdi, Tal: Rahata, Ahmednagar District, Maharashtra, was a very well-known and much worshipped Saint from all over India and around the globe. Shree Sai Baba was born in Pathri, Dist: Parbhani, Maharashtra and according to the belief of the devotees the date of birth of Shree Sai Baba was 28 September 1835.

The Disciples:

Mahalsapati, Upasni Maharaj, Bidkar Maharaj, Gangagir Maharaj, Janakidas Maharaj and Sati Godavari Mataji were amongst the very famous Spiritual figures who happen to be the disciples of Shree Sai Baba.

The Divine Powers:

The Spiritual Centre in the name of "Shree Sai Baba" is the largest and most famous Spiritual Centre in the state of Maharashtra. Shree Sai Baba was regarded as the “Satguru”, “Saint” and a “Fakir” and most importantly the “incarnation of god” by the devotees. Shree Sai Baba is a very unique example where the devotees from both the Hindu and Muslim religions worshipped and followed not only during his life but also after his life till the date. The teachings of Shree Sai Baba very strongly focused the elements like forgiveness, love, charity, helping the others, peace and the devotion towards the god.

Shree Sai Baba very strongly opposed the distinction based either on the religion or casts. The teachings of Sai Baba were very nicely balanced the elements of Hinduism as well as Islam. Shree Sai Baba gave a very typical Hindu name Dwarakamayi to the mosque where he lived. Shree Sai Baba also practiced and followed the Hindu as well as the Muslim rituals. That is the reason it is not clear till now whether Sai Baba was actually a Hindu or a Muslim. This is one of the great attributable of Shree Sai Baba that he is beyond any discrimination of any caste – creed –religion. He simply taught and followed a universal religion of

51 love, patience and trust. That is the reason again that Shree Sai Baba is like a deity to all the devotees irrespective of their religion. And most importantly it is the matter of „Experience‟ rather than simply any kind of superstition.

Shree Sai Baba enlightened a sacred fire which is called as “Dhuni” and use to give the ash from such dhuni to the devotees visiting him. It was believed that the ash from the dhuni had the healing powers. Shree Sai Baba with his divine power used to give a treatment to the ill and the sick using the ash from the dhuni. Shree Sai baba used to live under the neem tree and also used to wander in the nearby jungle in and around Shirdi for quite a long period.

The Teachings:

Shree Sai Baba very strongly took the initiative the charity and also focused on the value in the sharing principles. Shree Sai Baba through his teachings insisted upon treating respectfully to all the humans and the creatures coming to you. It was the teachings of Shree Sai Baba--

 To give water to the thirsty,

 To give food to the hungry,

 To give cloths to the naked,

 To give verandah to strangers for sitting and resting purpose.

The Samadhi:

Shree Sai Baba died on 15th October 1918 at Shirdi.

The Board of Trustees of the Spiritual Centre

(Shri Saibaba Sansthan Trust, Shirdi)

Sr. Name of the Trustees Position held No.

1 Shri Suresh Kashinath Haware Chairman

2 Shri Chandrashekhar Laxmanrao Kadam Vice Chairman

3 Dr.Mansiha Shamsundar Kayande Member

4 Dr. Manisha Shyamsunder Kayande Women

5 Adv.Mohan Motiram Jaykar Member

6 Shri Pratap Sakhahari Bhosale Member

7 Dr.Rajendra Rajabali Singh Member

8 Shri Bhausaheb Rajaram Wackchaure Member

9 Shri Bipindada Shankarrao Kolhe Member

10 Shri Ravindra Gajanan Mirlekar Member

11 Shri Amol Gajanan Kirtikar Member

President, Shirdi Nagar Panachayat 12 Ex-officio Sau.Yogita Abhay Shelke Patil Member

2.2.4 The Activities of the Sansthan

According to the Government Resolution No.S.S.V.-2010/ 175/ 22/ 16 / 28 July 2016, the Management Committee was formed by the Government of Maharashtra. The Sai Baba Sansthan, through the Management Committee is trying to provide the various facilities and smooth services to the Visitors and Devotees visiting the Sai Baba Temple at Shirdi, as follows –

Time Darshan Pure Drinking Water

Canteen Prasadalaya

Accommodation Public Toilets

The Visitors and Devotees to the extent of 50,000 are daily visiting the Sansthan, and the number of the same goes to 3,00,000 to 5,00,000 Visitors and Devotees

53 during the Special Events, Festive Seasons, Holidays and weekends. Because of Sai Baba, Shirdi has become a place of importance and is counted among the major Hindu places of pilgrimage. Shirdi Sai Baba is especially revered and worshiped in the states of –

Maharashtra Karnataka

Odisha Tamil Nadu

Andhra Pradesh Gujarat

Telangana Madhya Pradesh

In recent years, the Shirdi Sai movement has spread to the countries such as –

Nepal Malaysia

Canada Germany

United States United Kingdom

United Arab Emirates France

Australia Singapore

Currently the Sansthan is operating its various activities and functions through the following 39 Departments, such as --

1 Administration 21 Sound System

2 Labour 22 Security

3 Public Relation 23 Stores

4 Legal 24 Temple

5 Meeting 25 Vehicle

6 Accounts 26 Water Supply

7 Canteen 27 Health

8 Construction 28 Laddu manufacturing

9 Electrical 29 CCTV Control Cell

10 Accommodation 30 Assets and Property

11 Garden 31 Fire and Safety

12 I T 32 Mechanical

13 New Prasadalaya 33 Industrial Training

14 Publication 34 English School

15 Purchase 35 Kanya Vidya Mandir

16 Records 36 Junior College

17 Dwaravati 37 Shree Sainath Hospital

18 Sai Aashram 38 Speciality Hospital

19 BhaktaNiwassthan 39 Mumbai Office

20 Sanitation ------

Accommodation

The most important thing is that, the Accommodation is made available to the Visitors and Devotees considering their requirement (Room / Hall / Dormitory

55 and AC / Non AC) and the financial budget. The overall break-up of the total rooms in the various Bhakta Niwas of the Sansthan can be summarized as below:-

Name of the Bhakta Niwas Rooms available Devotee benefited in 2016

Sai Baba Niwas Sthan 315 4,28,981

Sai Baba Bhakta Niwas 512 14,91,794

Dwaravati Bhakta Niwas 316 6,93,516

Sai Ashram Bhakta Niwas 1, 536 29,21,502

Sai Ashram Dharamshala 192 5,93,246

Total Accommodation 2, 871 61,29,039

Table No. 2.2.4 Total Accommodation facility at Saibaba Sansthan Trust

Specifically for the Visitors and Devotees not opting for the halt at the Sansthan, and preferring to return back immediately after the visit to the Temple, the facility of the Public Toilets has been provided by the Sansthan wherein a two storied building with 120 Toilets and 120 bathrooms have been provided.

Prasadalaya (ISO 22000 – 2005 in September 2013)

On 8th January 2009 the Sansthan has opened the all new building “Shree Sai Prasadalaya” for the purpose of serving the “Prasad” among the Visitors and Devotees. The seating capacity of the Prasadalaya is so huge that, at a time 5,500 Visitors and Devotees can sit and enjoy the Prasad distributed by the Sansthan. So as to make the Prasad of good quality (as it is made in a very large quantity everyday ) and serve the same among the Visitors and Devotees quickly and easily the Sansthan has deployed the following domestic and imported modern machinery with the latest technology –

Aata Machine Roti Making Machine

Dish Washer Machine Masala Grinder

Rice /Vegetable Washer Vegetable Processor Machine

Onion Pillar Machine Garlic Pillar Machine

Butter Mixer Steam Boiler

On- line Chhakki Unit Solar Steam Cooking System

R. O. Water System Vegetable / dry fruit Cold Storage

Mounted LPG Plant Hydraulic Trolleys

Thermal Fluid Heating System Fire Hydrant System

The above mentioned machinery is used by the Sansthan in the cooking process of the “Prasad” on a daily basis, which helps the Prasad making much faster and easier. Right now the Prasadalaya of the Sansthan is opened for 12 hours a day serving the Visitors and Devotees in between 10 AM to 10 PM. The Prasad includes Dal, Rice, Roti, 2 Vegetables and a sweets also for which the Sansthan charge a nominal rate of Rs. 10 / - per adult and Rs. 5 /- per minor. On an average approximately 40, 000 Visitors and Devotees daily get the benefit and enjoy the Prasad in Sansthans Prasadalaya. In addition to this the Prasad is distributed free of cost among the poor, the hungry, the needy, physically handicapped etc to the extent of 1,500 such persons in and around the Sansthan. Also the schools of the Dumb and Deaf, Physically Challenged are also supplied with the Prasad by the Sansthan.

The Prasadalaya Arrangement

* Main Dining Hall has the seating capacity of 5,500 Devotees at a time.

* Free Dining Hall for the needy and poor, for 200 Devotees at a time.

* VIP Dining hall with seating capacity of 200 Devotees at a time at Rs. 40/-.

* VIP dining hall providing buffet meal has the seating capacity of 200 Devotees.

* Additional Dining Hall for 1,000 Devotees at a time in the crowdie season.

Technical Specifications of the Prasadalaya

Sr. No. Particulars Details

1 Total Expense for the Project Rs. 22, 93, 65, 371/-

2 Total area of the construction 2 Hectare 85 R

3 Main Building Ground Floor 11, 550. 70 Sq. meter

4 Main Building First Floor 5,503. 98 Sq. meter

5 Main Building Second Floor 530. 70 Sq. meter

Table No. 2.2.5

Services provided by the manpower

As on 31st March 2016, the Sansthan has appointed the Permanent category of the on roll employees to the extent of 2,148, inclusive of the 4 Top Administrative cadres (Chief Executive Officer, Dy. Chief Executive, Chief Financial Officer, and Security Officer) In addition to this the Sansthan has the supportive non permanent workforce or the Casual Workers (not on the pay roll of the Sansthan) for the last three years was as under

Sr. No. Total 2014 2015 2016

1 Semi – skilled casual workers 1,169 1,475 1,573

2 Security workers 0,606 743 751

Total 1,775 2,218 2,324

Table No. 2.2.6 Casual Workers at Saibaba Sansthan

Publication

The Publication Department has made available 86 types of holy books on Sai Baba in 17 different languages, 33 Types of Photos of Sai Baba, and 11 types of Audio/Video C. D. on Sai Baba. In addition to this the Diaries and the Calendars have also been distributed and circulated among the Visitors and Devotees. The holy book on Shri Saibaba 'Shri Sai Satcharitra', a Marathi publication, is much in demand by a large number of devotees. Written by Late Shri Govind Raghunath alias Annasaheb Dabholkar (Hemadpant) this volume cites the “Mercy of Saibaba” in 53 Chapters and 9309 couplets. Currently the 29th edition is available for devotees. Late Shri Govindrao had presented a unique collection of Saibaba's miracles as well as his religious discourses in this book. For Sai devotees it is as good as the Geeta- Dyaneshwari. Shri Saibaba Sansthan has also translated this book into 13 other languages, which are English, Hindi, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Bengali, Gujrathi, Sindhi, Oriya, Punjabi, Urdu, Nepali, Malayalam etc. Apart from the 'Shri Sai Satcharitra' more than 100 types of publications like books, photos, audio-video cassettes, etc. are also available for sale at the Sansthan. The Shri Saibaba Sansthan Trust has prepared audio CDs of the 'Shri Sai Satcharitra' as well as of the Hindi distics written by Late Govind Raghunath Dabholkar. These CDs are available in four parts enabling the non Marathi- speaking devotees to understand the Shri Sai Satcharitra. Hindi distich is also recorded in three parts. 'Shri Saileela' is Sansthan's bi-monthly magazine which is published in Marathi and Hindi/English-combination. Subscription to this bi- monthly is available at the following rates:

* Marathi Edition Annual Membership - Rs. 50/- (India), Rs.1000/- (Overseas)

* Hindi/English-combined Edition - Rs. 50/- (India) - Rs. 1000/- (Overseas)

* Marathi Edition Lifetime Membership - Rs. 1000/- (in India)

* Shri Sai Satcharitra Shri Sailila Magazine

The Bhkta Niwas

Prasadalaya

2.3 Chaitanyopasana Shree Sadguru Bramhachaitanya Maharaj Gondavalekar Sansthan, Gondavale.3

2.3.1 Sansthan Profile

Name of the Chaitanyopasana Shree Sadguru Bramhachaitanya Spiritual Centre Maharaj Gondavalekar Sansthan, Gondavale.

Name of the Shree Gondawvlekar Maharaj Spiritual Guru

Established in 1912

Registration No. A - 226

Address Gondavale Bk., Tal: Maan, Dist: Satara, Maharashtra. – 415508

Tel. No. (02165) 258292

How to Reach

By Train: Nearest Railway station is “Koregaon”.

By Road: From Pune it takes approximately 4 hours, and the route is Pune – Hadapsar – Saswad – Nira - Phaltan- Dahivadi - Gondvale. State transport buses are available from Pune. There are many buses from different destinations such as Mumbai, Thane, Panvel., There is no bus stand at Gondavale. There is a bus stop at the Gondavalekar Maharaj Samadhi place. Dahiwadi is the nearest bus stand which is 5 km from Gondavale. Dahiwadi is a very small place, with no facilities.

3 https//:shrigondavalekarmaharaj.org

2.3.2 Geographical Location

Geographical Location on the map of Maharashtra

Bramhachaitanya Shree Gondavalekar Maharaj

2.3.3 Brief History of the Spiritual Guru

The Appearance:

Shree Bramhachaitanya Gondavalekar Maharaj was born in the month of February 1845, at Gondavale Budruk, Tal: Maan, Dist: Satara, in the state of Maharashtra. Shree Maharaj, as he was popularly known as was a great devotee of Lord Rama.

Shree Maharaj, left his home at the age of nine in search of a „Guru‟. Altimately, at Yehalegaon in the Nanded district Shree Maharaj found a Spiritual Guru in the form of Shree Tukamai. It was his guru Shree Tukamai who named Shree Maharaj as „Bramhachaitanya‟.

The Disciples:

Shree Bramhanand Maharaj, Shree Anandsagar Maharaj, Shree Bhausaheb Ketkar, Dr. Kurtakoti, Shree Pandurang Buva, Shree Tatyasaheb Ketkar, Shree Pralhad Maharaj, Shree K. V. Belsare were amongst the prominent disciples of Shree Bramhachaitanya Gondavalekar Maharaj.

The Teachings:

Shree Maharaj spent his whole life in helping out the needy and poor especially suffering from drought. Shree Maharaj also advocated very strongly--

 The „Gorakshan‟ which means the protection of the cows,  The „Anna-Daan‟ which means distribution of the food,  The „Nama Japa‟ which means chanting the name of Lord Shri Rama,  The „Teerth Yatras‟ which means going for the Spiritual Tours,  The „Bhajans‟ which means singing the devotional songs.

The Divine Powers:

Shree Maharaj very strongly discouraged the devotees from the bad behavior and the bad habits with the help of his Pravachans and Bhajans. Shree Maharaj

63 was a strong believer of the fact that every happening in the life is an outcome of the will of the Lord Shri Rama.

Shree Maharaj spent the whole life in highlighting the importance of remembering the name of Lord Shri Rama during the each and every moment of life of a common man. Shree Maharaj believed that continuous remembrance of Lord Shri Rama is a gateway to the peace and happiness. Shree Maharaj strongly advocated the regularity in the prayers to Lord Shri Rama without any expectation in return. Shree Maharaj strongly insisted the devotees to make a perfect balance in between „prapancha‟ and „parmartha‟ using the path of naam japa.

The Samadhi:

Shree Maharaj died on 22nd December 1913 at Gnodavale.

The Board of Trustees of the Spiritual Centre

(Chaitanyopasana Shree Sadguru Bramha Chaitanya Maharaj Gondavalekar Sansthan)

Sr. Name of the Trustees Position held No.

1 Bramhachaitanya Shree Gondavalekar Maharaj*

2 Shri. Jayant Paranjape Managing Trustee

3 Shri.. Vishram Pathak Trustee

4 Shri. Shreedhar Manohar Trustee

5 Dr. Avadhoot Gulawani Trustee

*It is believed at the Sansthan that the operations of the Sansthan are being carried on as if „Shree Maharaj‟ is in the guiding role in the Sansthan`s activities.

2.3.4 The Activities of the Sansthan

Chaitanyopasana Shree Sadguru Bramhachaitanya Maharaj Gondavalekar Sansthan, Gondavale, through the Management Committee is trying to provide the various facilities and smooth services to the Visitors and Devotees visiting the Shri Maharaj Temple at Gondavale, Tal.: Maan, Dist.: Satara as follows –

 Pure Drinking Water

 Prasadalaya

 Accommodation

 Public Toilets

 Medical Services

 Meditation Hall

The Visitors and Devotees to the extent of 2,000 are daily visiting the Sansthan and the number of the same goes up to 5,000 Visitors and Devotees during the Special Events, Festive Seasons, Holidays and weekends.

Because of Shree Bramhachaitanya Gondavalekar Maharaj, Gondavale has become a place of importance and is counted among the major Hindu places of pilgrimage.

Currently the Sansthan is operating its various activities and functions through the following 15 Departments, such as --

1 General Administration

2 Accommodation

3 Prasadalaya

4 Publication

5 Health (Medical Services)

6 Reception and Luggage Counter

7 Meditation Hall

8 Goshala

9 Accounts

10 Purchase

11 Stores

12 Security

13 Water Supply

14 Electricity

15 Plumbing

Accommodation

The Sansthan has made available in all 275 Rooms along with 20 Dormitory Halls exclusively for the convenience and comfort of the Visitors and Devotees visiting the Spiritual centre from across the country.

Services

The overall functioning of the Sansthan is being carried out by the best combination of the human resources available at the Sansthan. There are 120 employees on pay – roll of the Sansthan engaged in the various departments listed above. The hundreds of Devotees voluntarily and happily join the hands of the employees of the Sansthan in overall huge crowd management at the Sansthan especially in peak periods of the Special Events and festive seasons.

Prasadalaya

The seating capacity of the Prasadalaya is so huge that, at a time 3,000 Visitors and Devotees can sit and enjoy the Prasad distributed by the Sansthan. Three sections have been made within the Prasadalaya having the seating capacity of 1,000 each totaling to 3,000 as the maximum capacity of the Prasadalaya at a time.

On an average approximately 2, 000+ Visitors and Devotees daily get the benefit and enjoy the Prasad in Sansthans Prasadalaya. Generally, the volume of the Visitors and Devotees during the “Special Events”, „‟Festive Seasons”, and on weekends typically ranges in between 4,000 to 5,000 per day and the Preasad is distributed to them accordingly.

It is very important to note that the Prasad is distributed absolutely free of cost to the Visitors and Devotees.

Publication

The Publication Department has made available 20 types of holy books on Shree Bramhachaitanya Gondavalekar Maharaj mostly in the local language Marathi. The holy book on Shree Bramhachaitanya Gondavalekar Maharaj, „Shree Gondavalekar Maharajanchi Pravachane‟ a Marathi – Hindi – English - Gujarati – Kannada – Telugu publication, is usually in great demand by a large number of devotees. The other popular publications of the Sansthan are -

 „Saint of Gondavale‟ (English) by Shri. K. V. Belsare.  „Sahaj Bolane - Hitaupadesh‟ by G. C. Gokhale.  „Amritwani‟ (Marathi – Hindi - Kannada) by Dr. Manohar Vartikar.  „Gondavalekar Maharaj – brief biography‟ by Smt. Mandakini Soman.  „Nityopasana‟ by Shreeram Damle.  „Parmarthik Shanka Samadhan‟ by Prof. K. L. Vaidya.  „Shree Bramhanand Maharaj Mahatmya‟ by Smt. Mandakini Soman.  „Jeevan aur Vyaktitva‟ by Shri Dikshit.

 „Naam Sada Bolave‟ by Ravindra Pathak.  „Sadgurugruhi Seva Chintan Shibir‟ by Ravindra Pathak.  „Kanthi Raaho Naam‟ by Ravindra Pathak.  „Reminiscences‟ by L. G. Marathe.  „Sadguru Leelamrit‟ (Marathi) by Gopal Vishnu Phadake.  „Nityanaimityik Upasana‟ Edited by the Sansthan.  „Nityapaath/ Kakad Aarti/ Samudayik Jaap‟ Edited by the Sansthan.  „Gondavalekar Maharaj Mahatmya‟ by Smt. Mandakini Soman.  „Amrit Ghatika‟ by Parshuram G Gadre.  „Jeevan Darshan‟ by G. C. Gokhale.  „Manobodh‟ by Ravindra Pathak.

Along with this the Sansthan has published three DVD`s (Video) and eight MP3 (Audio) edited by Ravindra Pathak.

Medical Services

Shree Maharaj was very much concerned about the physical and mental health of the devotees approaching and following him. During his avatar Shree Maharaj many a times used to provide the medical treatment to the ill health either himself using his divine powers or through the doctors. With the widespread growth of the Sansthan the needy and the poor patients were drastically increased with the hope for the medical treatment provided by the Sansthan.

In response to the needy and poor devotee suffering the health related issues the Sansthan commenced a hospital in the premises of the Samadhi Mandir (Spiritual Centre) of Shree Bramhachaitanya Gondavalekar Maharaj in the year 1983 under the supervision of Dr. Appa Aathavale. The then Managing Trustee Dr.Ghanekar himself was the Doctor in charge at the above medical facility of the Sansthan. Again due to the huge crowd turning towards the medical facility of the Sansthan in anticipation of the treatment the Sansthan started a hospital in an all new building of 500 sq. ft. just opposite to the Samadhi Mandir (Spiritual Centre) of Shree Bramhachaitanya Gondavalekar Maharaj. A hospital with well equipped 68 operation theatre and the necessary facilities was commenced on 1st May 1994 which is known as the „Chaitanya Hospital‟.

The medical service providing activity of the Sansthan was assumed as an indispensible part of the Spiritual activities of the Sansthan. The medical camps were arranged twice with the help of reputed doctors from Mumbai and Poona. Almost 2400 patients were turned out to be the beneficiaries of the camps. The following facilities are offered at the hospital –

 General Treatment  General Ward  ICU for the critical patients  Optometric Treatment  Optometric patients ward  E-N-T Treatment  Gynaecologist Treatment  Sonography  Digital X-ray  A Scan  Pathology Lab

The expert, reputed and devoted 90 doctors offer their services exclusively for the devotees of Shree Bramhachaitanya Gondavalekar Maharaj. The medical treatment offered at the Chaitanya Hospital is absolutely „Free of Cost‟. Since last 15 years of the functioning of the Chaitanya Hospital not a single case of death due to the operation failure has been reported so far. This shows the overall faith of the doctors as well as the patients towards Shree Bramhachaitanya Gondavalekar Maharaj.

Bhakta Niwas Building at Gondavale Sansthan

The Prasadalaya at Gondavale Sansthan

„Chaitanya Hospital, Gondavale‟

2.4 Shree Swami Samarth Annachhatra Mandal, Akkalkot.4

2.4.1 Sansthan Profile

Name of the Shree Swami Samarth Annachhatra Mandal, Spiritual Centre Akkalkot.

Name of the Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj. Spiritual Guru

Registered in 29/11/1989

Registration No. F/ 2279/ Solapur Dated 29/11/1989

Address Akkalkot, Dist: Solapur, Maharashtra.

Contact No. 02181- 220444, 221444, 221180

How to Reach

By Road:

Akkalkot is a Taluka place and situated in the Solapur district of Maharashtra and located on the borders of Maharashtra as well as Karnataka.

By road the nearest route is from Solapur and the other routes are from Naldurg, Afzalpur, Gulbarga, and Ganagapur.

By Train:

By train also Akkalkot route is from Solapur, Naldurg, Afzalpur, Gulbarga, and Ganagapur.

Table No. 2.4.1

4 www:swamiannacchatra.org

2.4.2 Geographical Location

Geographical Location on the map of Maharashtra

Shree Swami Samatrh Maharaj, Akkalkot

2.4.3 Brief History of the Spiritual Guru

Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj from Akkalkot Tal: and District: Solapur, Maharashtra, was a very well-known and much worshipped Saint especially from Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh and the other parts of India and around the globe also.

The Appearance:

Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj of Akkalkot Tal: And District: Solapur, Maharashtra, was a very famous Indian Guru especially in the „Dattatreya‟ tradition (Sampradaya). Just like Shri Sai Baba the earlier life of Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj is also not known. While answering the question of a devotee about the life of Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj, he himself told that he is the origin of the „Banyan Tree‟. According to the belief of the devotees Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj appeared in „Kardalivan‟ near Srisailam.

The Disciples:

Shree Swamisut (Hanbhau Khot), Sundarabai, Deo Mamledar, ShriKrishna Saraswati- Kumbhar Swami, Wamanbua Vamorikar (Badodekar), Nana Rekhi, Cholappa, Balappa Maharaj were amongst the prominent disciples of Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj.

The Divine Powers:

Lot of similarities has also been observed in between Shree Swami Samarth and Shree Gajanan Maharaj. Both were AjanBahu, Paramahans Sanyasi and many others. Many devotees and followers say that during the lifetime Shri Swami Samarth did so many miracles. It is believed that the reason behind such miracles by Shri Swami Samarth was only because he knew the Yoga Shastra.

Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj was pure incarnation of the supreme power. The devotees of Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj believe him as an incarnation of Lord Dattatreya. According to the devotees, the appearing of Shree Swami Samarth

Maharaj in human avatar was mere a Leela of Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj, as he was simply the Brahmadnyani. The devotees in huge numbers gather at the Spiritual Centre at Akkalkot in the name of Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj simply for the darshan and blessings of Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj.

The Teachings:

The famous quote of Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj to all the Devotees is “Bhivu Nakos, Mi Tuzya Pathishi Aahe” (Don`t worry I am with you!) The other famous teachings of Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj are –

 Earn livelihood through sincere efforts.

 Try to gain the knowledge from the guide if any.

 Try to purify your mind just like your body.

 The divine knowledge of all the religious faith is one and the same.

The Samadhi:

Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj`s soul left for heavenly abode in the year 1878.

The Board of Trustees of the Spiritual Centre

(Shree Swami Samarth Annachhatra Mandal, Akkalkot)

Sr.No. Name of the Trustees Position held

1 Shri Janmejayraaje Vijaysinhraaje Bhosale Founder President

2 Shri Abhay Gunadhar Khobare Vice- President

3 Shri Swamirao Shivaram More Secretary

4 Shri Ravindra Mohan Bhandare Treasurer

5 Shri Amol Balasaheb Shinde Trustee

6 Shri Dileep Shankarrao Kolhe Trustee

7 Dr. Mahohar Krushnaji More Trustee

8 Shri Rajendra Shivashankar Limbitote Trustee

9 Shri Abdul Muhid Gulabso Valsangakar Trustee

10 Shri. Vijaykumar Dhondiba Hanchate Trustee

11 Shri Vijay Janmejayraaje Bhosale Executive Trustee

12 Shri Lakshman Vitthalrao Patil (Employee Rep.) Trustee

13 Shri Santosh Jagannath Bhosale (Employee Rep.) Trustee

14 Mrs Alka Janmejayraaje Bhosale (Women‟s Rep) Trustee

15 Mrs. Anita Abhay Khobare (Women‟s Rep.) Trustee

2.4.4 The Activities of the Sansthan

The Shree Swami Samarth Annachhatra Mandal, through the Management Committee is trying to provide the various facilities and smooth services to the Visitors and Devotees visiting Shri Swami Samarth Maharaj Temple at Akkalkot, Dist.: Solapur as follows –

 Prasadalaya

 Waiting Hall near Prasadalaya

 Accommodation for outstation Devotees

 Pure Drinking Water

 Outdoor Gymnasium

 Shivsmarak (World of forts)

 Lawn Garden on the hills

 Wide parking lot

Approximately 20,000 Visitors and Devotees daily visit the Sansthan and the number of the same even cross this figure during the Special Events, Festive Seasons, Holidays and weekends.

Because of Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj, Akkalkot has essentially become an important place and has also become one of the top places of pilgrimage.

Currently the Sansthan is operating its various activities and functions through the following 9 Departments, such as --

1 General Administration

2 Accommodation

3 Prasadalaya

4 Purchase

5 Stores

6 Donation Counter

7 Accounts and Audit

8 Security

9 Parking`s

Accommodation

Thousands of the Visitors and Devotees across the country daily visit the Sansthan for the Darshan of Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj. With a view to satisfy the need of the outstation Devotees the accommodation facility has been made available by the Sansthan. With an investment of 15 crores the Sansthan has offered the two accommodation facilities named as Yatri Niwas – I and Yatri Niwas – II.

Yatri Niwas – I is spread over 15,000 Sq. Ft. of land. It is three storied building having 66 Rooms and 18 Big Halls. This allows the capacity of up to 5,000 76

Devotees to accommodate easily at a time. 75 employees work exclusively for this building. The accommodation facility is available on payment of nominal charges and for the sake of the convenience of the advance as well as on line booking service has also been made available.

Yatri Niwas – II is another accommodation facility which is under construction right now. It is also a three storied building having 106 Rooms out of which 18 Rooms are A/C Rooms and have been arranged six on each floor. This accommodation facility is an ultra modern type of facility having very comfortable VIP suits also in it.

Prasadalaya (Annachhatra)

It was on commenced on 29th July 1988. The seating capacity of the Prasadalaya is such that 1,000 Visitors and Devotees can sit and avail the Mahaprasad in the Prasadalaya. Approximately 15, 000+ Visitors and Devotees daily get the Mahaprasad distributed in the Sansthan`s Prasadalaya. It is worth to mention here that the Mahaprasad is distributed absolutely free of cost to the Visitors and Devotees. The Visitors and Devotees enjoying the Mahaprasad easily cross the above mentioned figure of 15, 000 during the „‟Festive Seasons”, “Special Events” and weekends.

For the preparation of the Mahaprasad in a huge quantity and also on a daily basis requires the groceries like rice, wheat, sugar, pulses, jiggery, ghee, oil and variety of spices which is purchased by the supervisory authority keeping in mind the quality aspect. There is a separate and special arrangement of the shed for the storage of such grocery items. The Mahaprasad is offered to the Devotees with the help of manpower approximately 200 + engaged in the overall process of the preparation such as cleaning the grains – cutting - cooking - serving - and cleaning the utensils.

Services

With the expansion of functioning of the Prasadalaya (Annachhatra) the total strength touched to almost 250 employees in the different functioning departments such as –

 Administration/Clerical  Cooking (Chef)  Roti makers  Vegetable cleaning and cutting  Serving  Utensils Cleaning  Security  Yatri Niwas I  Yatri Bhuvan

All the above mentioned manpower falls in the category of the employees on the pay – roll of the Sansthan. The hundreds of Volunteers (Swami Sevak) also offer their services to the Visitors and Devotees at the Annachhatra and add their helping hands to the employees of the Sansthan.

The Prasadalaya (Annachhatra)

Yatri Niwas – I at Akkalkot