Shirdi Ram Navami 2026 – Festival Schedule, History & Baba’s Teachings

Shri Ram Navami at Shirdi: A Celebration of Unity and Devotion

Shri Ram Navami, widely recognized as Lord Rama's birthday, holds a unique significance at Shirdi, the holy abode of Sri Saibaba. Unlike conventional celebrations, Shirdi's Ram Navami emphasizes communal harmony and devotion, uniting Hindus and Muslims in shared reverence for Baba's teachings. This tradition was initiated by Sri Saibaba himself in 1897, and it has been celebrated continuously ever since, making it an exceptional festival with distinct spiritual importance.

Historical Significance

Sri Saibaba began celebrating Ram Navami as a way to foster unity among devotees of different faiths. His vision was to create a festival that honored Lord Rama while embodying the values of love, peace, and brotherhood. Over time, this celebration grew into a grand event, merging the worship of Lord Rama with the teachings and miracles of Sri Saibaba.

Program Highlights (March 25 - 27, 2026)

Day 1: March 25, 2026

• 4:30 am: Kakad Aarati begins the day with serene prayers to Saibaba.
• 5:00 am: A procession carrying Saibaba's sacred texts (Pothi) moves through Shirdi, followed by the commencement of Akand Parayan, a continuous reading of the Satcharitra in Dwarakamayi.
• 5:20 am: Holy Bath & Darshan of Saibaba.
• 6:00 am: Padya Puja (Feet Worship) of Saibaba as devotees seek his blessings.
• 12:30 pm: Mid-Day Aarati, a heartfelt prayer to honor Saibaba.
• 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm: Keertan (Devotional Singing) fills the air with devotion and joy.
• 7:00 pm: Dhoop Aarati, another session of soulful prayers.
• 9:15 pm: Palaquin Procession of Saibaba travels through Shirdi, spreading spiritual bliss.
• 10:30 pm: Shej Aarati, marking the end of the day's rituals.

Special Note: Dwarakamai will remain open throughout the night for the Akand Parayan.

Day 2: March 26, 2026

• 4:30 am: Day begins with Kakad Aarati and the continuation of the Parayan.
• 5:00 am: Conclusion of the Akand Parayan.
• 5:20 am: Holy Bath & Darshan of Saibaba.
• 6:00 am: Padya Puja continues.
• 12:30 pm: Mid-Day Aarati with elaborate prayers.
• 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm: Keertan enhances the devotional atmosphere.
• 7:00 pm: Dhoop Aarati, invoking divine blessings.
• 9:15 pm: The grand Chariot Procession carries Saibaba's image through Shirdi, captivating devotees.
• 11:00 pm - 5:00 am: Artists Programmes celebrate the festival with cultural performances.

Special Note: Samadhi Mandir will remain open throughout the night for darshan.

Day 3: March 27, 2026

• 5:05 am: Holy Bath & Darshan of Saibaba.
• 6:00 am: Padya Puja to honor Saibaba's divine presence.
• 6:15 am: Rudrabhishek performed in the Gurusthan Mandir.
• 10:30 am: Gopalakala Keertan & Dahihandi, marking festivities with Lord Krishna's playful spirit.
• 12:00 pm: Mid-Day Aarati concludes the rituals.
• 7:00 pm: Dhoop Aarati envelopes the temple in divine prayers.
• 10:30 pm: Shej Aarati, closing the celebrations with serenity.

A Symbol of Unity

Shirdi’s Ram Navami celebration stands as a testimony to Sri Saibaba’s teachings, blending devotion to Lord Rama with his universal messages of love and equality. The harmonious participation of Hindus and Muslims demonstrates how Baba's legacy transcends barriers and inspires collective worship.

How to Reach Shirdi

• By Air:
• Nearest Airport: Shirdi International Airport (about 14 km from the temple).
• Alternatives: Pune (190 km) and Aurangabad (130 km). From these, taxis and buses are available.
• By Train:
• Sainagar Shirdi Railway Station connects to major cities like Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Delhi.
• Trains are often fully booked during Ram Navami, so reserve tickets well in advance.
• By Road:
• Shirdi is well connected by state-run and private buses from Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, and Hyderabad.
• Driving is also convenient, with good highways leading to Shirdi.

Accommodation Tips

• Book hotels or dharmashalas at least 2–3 months ahead, as Ram Navami draws thousands of devotees.
• Options range from budget lodges to mid-range hotels near the temple.
• The Sai Sansthan Trust offers affordable accommodation close to Samadhi Mandir.

Temple & Festival Tips

• Darshan Planning:
• Expect long queues; use online booking for darshan passes via the Sai Sansthan website.
• Early morning Kakad Aarati is especially popular—arrive by 3:30 am to secure a spot.
• Festival Rush:
• The Palanquin and Chariot processions (March 25 & 26 evenings) are highlights—arrive early to get a good view.
• Samadhi Mandir remains open overnight during the festival, so late-night darshan is possible.
• Dress & Etiquette:
• Wear modest, comfortable clothing.
• Photography is restricted inside temple premises—respect the rules.

Food & Essentials

• Free Prasadalaya meals are served by the Sai Sansthan Trust.
• Local restaurants offer vegetarian Maharashtrian and South Indian food.
• Carry water, light snacks, and a shawl (nights can be cool in March).

Travel Tips

• Crowd Management: Keep valuables safe; use temple lockers if needed.
• Connectivity: Mobile networks can be congested—download maps offline.
• Health: Carry basic medicines; Shirdi has medical facilities but queues can be long.
• Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws are plentiful; fix fares before boarding.