
Shirdi, located approximately 296 km from Mumbai, was established in
1922 to carry out the noble service of the saint Shri Sai Baba. The saga
of Shri Sathya Sai Baba of Shirdi started in the middle of the last
century when, as a boy about 16 years of age, he first appeared here
under a neem tree absorbed in a hard penance. He devoted 60 years of
life to the upliftment of the poor and suffering. The saint was believed
to be an incarnation of lord Shiva and his teachings transcended all
religions and beliefs. A pilgrimage for his followers, Shirdi provides
various facilities for the devotees.