Shani Shingnapur, Shirdi - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Shani Shingnapur Temple

At a distance of 44 Km from Ahmednagar, and 72 Km from Shirdi and 44 km from Ahmednagar, Shani Shingnapur or Sonai is a village in Nevasa taluka of Ahmednagar district in Maharashtra. The village is known for its popular temple of Shani Mahadev, the Hindu god associated with the planet (graha) Saturn. This is one of the most popular Shani temples in India and also among the famous pilgrimage sites near Pune. The temple is regarded as a 'jagrut devasthan,' which translates to 'living temple,' indicating that the deity is believed to still inhabit the site. The villagers' faith in Lord Shani is so profound that none of the homes in this remarkable village are equipped with doors or locks, as they trust that Lord Shani safeguards their possessions from theft.

History & Mythology of Shani Shingnapur Temple

The village of Shani Shingnapur is unique in that none of its homes have doors. The residents hold a strong belief that the deity Shani punishes anyone who attempts to steal. According to local legend, approximately 150 years ago, a large black stone appeared on the surface of the water, which was later discovered by local shepherds once the water receded. When one shepherd prodded the stone with a sharp object, it began to bleed. That night, the god Shaneshwara visited the dreams of the devoted shepherds, expressing his desire to remain in the village in that form, without a roof over him. In exchange, he assured them that theft would never be a concern in their community. Remarkably, there have been no reported thefts, despite the absence of locks and doors. In 2010 and 2011, there were attempts at theft, but it is claimed that those who tried to steal met with fatal consequences shortly after their actions.

Architecture of Shani Shingnapur Temple

The Shani Shignapur Temple has no roofs, doors or walls around. It only has a five and a half feet high black stone, symbolising Lord Shani, placed on a open-air platform. The idol of Lord Shanidev at the Shingnapur temple is swayambhu and the temple is believed to be a jagrut devasthan, meaning that a deity still resides in the temple. On the idol of Lord Shani, mustard oil is poured continuously from a copper vessel which hangs just above the idol. There is a Trishul alongside the stone as well as a Nandi on its south. In front are the small images of Shiva and Hanuman. An east-facing multi deity temple was built west of the Shani idol later. The premises also contain a tomb of Saint Udasi Baba and a temple dedicated to Dattatreya.

Festivals of Shani Shingnapur Temple

The Shani Shingnapur temple observes several festivals, including Gudi Padava in March/April, Shri Shaneswar Jayanti (the birthday of Shani), Aashadi Ekadashi, and Ekanaathi Shashti. Devotees engage in palanquin processions and various rituals during these celebrations. Shri Shaneswar Jayanti is marked with profound devotion and joy on Vaishak Vadya Chaturdasi Amavasya, typically occurring in May or June. Additionally, Saturdays are regarded as particularly favorable for offering prayers to Lord Shani. Shani Thrayodashi & Saturday falling on 'Amavasya' are also considered to be a favourite day of the lord, and on those days devotees seeking his blessings throng this temple in huge numbers.

Shani Shingnapur Dress Code & Other Restrictions

When planning a visit to the Shirdi Shani Shingnapur Temple, it is recommended to adhere to modest clothing that covers your upper arms and legs as a sign of respect. Men are encouraged to wear a dhoti or pajama paired with an upper garment, as well as formal trousers and shirts. Women may opt for a saree, half saree, or chudidhars. It is advisable to refrain from wearing contemporary attire such as mini-skirts, shorts, and sleeveless tops while on the temple grounds.

Non-Hindus are welcome to explore the temple complex and appreciate its architectural beauty; however, access to the sanctum sanctorum may be restricted.

Shani Shingnapur Temple Timings

Monday: 24 Hours
Tuesday: 24 Hours
Wednesday: 24 Hours
Thursday: 24 Hours
Friday: 24 Hours
Saturday: 24 Hours
Sunday: 24 Hours

Shani Shingnapur Temple Entry Fee

Entry is Free
Oil Offering is Available for Rs. 500

Best Time to Visit Shani Shingnapur Temple

The best period to visit Shani Shingnapur Temple is between September and February, as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The temple experiences its peak attendance during festivals like Gudi Padava, Shaneswar Jayanti, and on Saturdays, so it is wise to schedule your visit around these dates if you plan to travel during these times. Tourists typically steer clear of the summer months when temperatures can reach up to 40 degrees Celsius. Additionally, the monsoon season can disrupt outdoor activities due to heavy rainfall.

How to Reach Sri Meenakshi Shani Shingnapur Temple

Pune International Airport serves as the closest airport, situated approximately 155 kilometers from Shani Shingnapur. This airport offers daily flights from major cities including Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kochi, Delhi, Kolkata, and Goa. The nearest railway stations to the Shani Shingnapur Temple are located in Rahuri, Ahmednagar, Shrirampur, and Shirdi. Shani Shingnapur is roughly 72 kilometers away from Shirdi, and travelers can conveniently reach the temple by private car or taxi. Additionally, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) operates regular bus services between these two locations.