Importance of Thursday in Sai Baba Devotion

For devotees of Sai Baba, every day is special, but Thursday holds a unique place in their hearts. This day is believed to be especially dear to Sai Baba, and countless followers across the world dedicate their prayers, fasting, and rituals to him on Thursdays. The streets around Shirdi, as well as Sai temples everywhere, witness a surge of devotees on this day, all seeking Baba’s blessings.

But why is Thursday considered so significant in Sai Baba devotion? Let’s explore the history, meaning, and rituals that make this day sacred.

Spiritual Significance of Thursday

In Hindu tradition, Thursday is associated with Guru or Brihaspati, the teacher of the gods. As Sai Baba is seen as a Sadguru (True Guru) who guides his devotees on the path of righteousness, Thursday naturally became the day most connected with him.

Devotees believe that offering prayers on Thursday helps them:

• Gain spiritual strength and clarity.

• Remove obstacles and difficulties from life.

• Receive divine guidance in times of confusion.

• Strengthen their faith and patience (Shraddha and Saburi).

Baba himself always emphasized the importance of devotion to the Guru, and Thursday reflects this relationship between the master and the disciple.

Rituals Performed on Thursday

Across the world, devotees observe Thursday with simple yet heartfelt rituals. Some of the most common practices include:

1. Visiting Sai Baba Temples

Devotees throng Sai Baba temples on Thursdays, especially the Shirdi Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir, where long queues of pilgrims can be seen offering prayers and flowers.

2. Special Aarti and Bhajans

Thursday Aarti is performed with deep devotion, often accompanied by bhajans and chanting of “Om Sai Ram.” Many devotees attend the Kakad Aarti at dawn or the Shej Aarti at night on this day.

3. Fasting on Thursday

Fasting is a common practice among Sai Baba devotees. Some choose to eat only fruits, while others observe a complete fast until evening prayers. The fast is broken after offering prayers and prasad to Baba.

4. Reading of Sai Satcharitra

On Thursdays, many devotees read or complete chapters of the Sai Satcharitra, which narrates the miracles and teachings of Baba. Completing a full reading over seven consecutive Thursdays is considered especially auspicious.

5. Offering Yellow Flowers and Sweets

Yellow is the color associated with Thursday and with Guru. Devotees often offer yellow flowers, laddoos, or chana dal as prasad to Sai Baba on this day.

Thursday in Shirdi

In Shirdi, Thursday is the busiest day of the week at the Samadhi Mandir. Thousands of pilgrims gather to attend special aartis, palki processions, and devotional programs. The energy and devotion on this day are unmatched, and many consider a Thursday darshan in Shirdi as a life-changing experience.

Blessings of Thursday Devotion

Devotees strongly believe that worshipping Sai Baba on Thursday helps them receive his divine blessings more abundantly. The day is associated with:

• Peace in family life.

• Protection from hardships.

• Success in studies, career, and business.

• Spiritual growth and inner strength.

Sai Baba’s promise, “I will never leave my devotee who has faith in me,” is deeply felt by those who dedicate their Thursdays to him.

Thursday is not just another day in the week for Sai Baba’s followers. It is a time to pause, pray, and connect with Baba’s divine presence. Whether by visiting temples, fasting, or reading the Sai Satcharitra, devotees use this day to strengthen their bond with their beloved Guru.

By observing Thursday with love and devotion, one can truly feel the warmth of Sai Baba’s blessings and the peace that comes from remembering him.