Who is Shirdi Baba?

Sirdi Baba was a celibate saint who lived by the begging bowl. He constantly remembered God and enjoyed happiness in solitude. The most important thing in his divine personality that attracted all, was the light in his eyes. The divine Bliss of becoming one with God emerged through his eyes. These two lustrous objects in his body were the source of inspiration, care, mercy and ‘Mukti’ (illumination) for all those who surrendered to him. Baba saw no difference in caste or people.


Baba disliked honour (social status) which to him was only a need of the ego. Baba would accept any small thing offered with love and devotion but if the same was offered with pride, he would reject it. Baba said, ‘If you want anything, beg of the Lord, leave worldly honour’. He himself was very humble.

Using simple stories and clothing great truths in simple parables as did Jesus Christ, Baba was able to create a pyramid of perceptions in the listener – his words were always pregnant with meaning and never hollow. He gave varied instructions to many, according to their requirements, in both worldly and spiritual matters and used different methods to instruct devotees. However, he did not like arguments or discussion. His grace brought on a magnetic power of attraction which drew a devotees mind in the desired direction.

In 1886 AD, in a well recorded incident, Baba’s soul left his body for three full days. In this period, both his breathing and his pulse stopped, after which he came back to life. Baba had all the eight Siddhis (spiritual powers) at his command. For example, he had complete control over nature and elements and is known to have cured many incurable diseases by his touch and mere glance. He had a spontaneous knowledge of diverse religious scriptures and languages. He never practiced nor craved for these Siddhis; they came to him naturally, as a result of his perfection.