History:

is associated with the temple of Shani Shingnapur in village of Shirdi, in Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra, India. It is believed that in 1782, Saint Shri Saibaba of Shirdi offered Pooja to Shani, hence giving the Village the name Shirdi-Shani Shinganapur. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shani, one of the nine planets from the Hindu system of astrology, and is the incarnation of Lord Shiva. It is believed that Lord Shani guards the village. It is also said that the lord protects the village from all evils and misfortunes and in return the villagers offer him their prayers and keep away from any mischievous activities. The temple of Shani Shingnapur still stands well intact and is visited by devotees from all over the world. The village is also known for its unique feature of houses without door. Devotees leave the doors of their houses open as an offering to Lord Shani pledging that once the Lord is appeased, the house will remain free of any harm. It is one of the best temple in Maharashtra which you must visit.

Facts:

1. Shani Shingnapur Temple is located in Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar district near the town of Shirdi. 2. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity Shani, who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. 3.Shani Shingnapur is a unique temple where there is no idol or deity. Instead, a lingam made of five and a half feet black stone stands on a raised platform and is worshipped. 4. The temple is known for its foundation stone which is said to be unbreakable. 5. Shani Shingnapur is famous for its no-theft tradition. Villagers of the area have long respected the deity and it is believed that for centuries, villagers have not locked their doors for fear of displeasing the deity. 6. There are many small shrines located around the main shrine dedicated to other deities like Lord Ganesha and Lord Hanuman. 7. Every Saturday thousands of devotees come to the temple to worship Shani and offer black sesame or oil to the deity. 8. An annual fair is held in the third week of January on Maha Shivratri day in which devotees from all over India take part. Here are some facts about the Maharashtra temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Maharashtra

Worship Method:

The worship of Lord Shani Shingnapur takes place through traditional temple rituals. The worshippers offer flowers, water, and coconuts to the deity. They then make a wish and pray for their desires to be fulfilled. Prayers are chanted, mantras are recited, and prayers are offered. They also offer sandalwood paste and Prasad to the deity. After the pooja, they offer their donations and perform aarti. Devotees can also take part in Abhishek and Akhand Jyot ceremony and seek blessing of Lord Shani for a prosperous future and new beginnings. This most visited temple in Maharashtra

Opening Timing:

The Shani Shingnapur Temple in Shirdi, Maharashtra, is open from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM throughout the week. top temples in Maharashtra

How to reach:

Shani Shingnapur Temple is located in Nevasa Taluka of Ahmednagar district in Maharashtra. It is well connected by road ways, railways and airways. 1. By Road: The nearest city to the temple is Ahmednagar which is 35km away. Regular buses from Mumbai and Shirdi are available for travelling to this temple. Private vehicle is also a convenient mode of transport for reaching the temple. 2. By Rail: The nearest railway station to Shani Shingnapur temple is Ahmednagar railway station which is well connected to major cities of India. 3. By Air: The nearest airport to the temple is Aurangabad airport which is around 160 km away. One needs to take an onward flight to reach the destination. famous temples in Maharashtra