Shani Shingnapur

Shani Shingnapur, also known as Sonai, is a village in Maharashtra's Nevasa taluka in the Ahmednagar district. The well-known temple of Shani Mahadev, dedicated to the Hindu god linked to Saturn (graha), makes the town famous.

The image of Lord Shanidev at the Shingnapur temple appears as a swayambhu, and devotees believe the temple is a jagrut devasthan, meaning a god still lives there. A black stone five and a half feet high and set up on an open-air stage represents the idol. This sacred temple is one of the places to visit in Shirdi, drawing thousands of devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace.

Why Is This Village Famous for Its Doorless Houses?

The homes in the temple town don't have any doors. What people think is that God Shani punishes crooks. Myth says that 150 years ago, when the water in the lake dried up, farmers in the area saw a huge black block floating on it. When a sharp stick was put to it, blood came out of it. That night, Shaneshwara showed up in the farmers' dreams and told them he wanted to live in the village without a roof. He promised that the town would never be robbed in return.

The first theft was reported in 2010, and another in 2011. Some thieves have died by throwing up blood just minutes after taking and before crossing the border. Others' punishments include being sick for a long time, having mental problems, etc.

The Unique Rituals and Beliefs at the Shani Temple

The image of Lord Shanidev at the Shingnapur temple exists as a swayambhu, and devotees consider the temple a jagrut devasthan, meaning a god still lives there. The five-and-a-half-foot-tall black stone idol stands on a stage outside. Along the stone, there is a Trishul, and to the south, there is a Nandi. Small figures of Shiv and Hanuman appear in front of you. Later, devotees built a temple for many gods facing east and west of the Shani figure. There is also a temple to Dattatreya and the tomb of Saint Udasi Baba on the property—one of the places that must be in any Shirdi plan.

Best Days to Visit Shani Shingnapur

Every day, thousands of followers go to the Shani temple. Saturday is the busiest day. People believe that Shani Trayodasi is the lord's favorite day. In the same way, people think that Lord Shanaishwara loves Saturdays that happen on Amavasya, so many of them go to the temple. After taking a bath, devotees enter the temple grounds. People who worship at the Shani Shingnapur Temple wear traditional dhotis and say prayers. Many travelers include this sacred site in their Shirdi tour package, making it a must-visit destination for spiritual seekers.