India is a land of several festivals. One of the most unique and adorable festival is Raksha Bandhan. As the name suggests, ‘Raksha’ means to protect and ‘Bandhan’ means bond. It celebrates the bond between a brother and sister, a beautiful relation that lasts for a lifetime.
Raksha Bandhan is observed on the last day of the Hindu month of Shravan which usually falls in August. But why is it celebrated? According, to Hindu mythology, there are various legends and stories surrounding the origin of this festival. Some believe that Goddess Lakshmi tied the rakhi on the wrist of Demon Bali, some say that Sachi tied a holy thread on the wrist of Lord Indra. It is also believed that Draupadi tied a cloth on Krishna’s finger when he was injured, and Krishna was so grateful for this act of kindness that he promised to protect her in time of need. However, the universal and common understanding of Raksha Bandha is to celebrate the pure bond of love, care and security that siblings share.
Raksha Bandhan Celebration at Shirdi
Shirdi is a town located around 230km from Mumbai in Maharashtra. It is a popular tourist and pilgrimage destination. Shirdi was the home of the divine saint Sai Baba for more than 50 years. His mortal remains are in the Sai Temple where thousands of devotees come every day. However, any festival or auspicious occasion, including Raksha Bandhan, merits blessings from the angelic leader. Thus, large crowds of devotees make their way to the Sai Mandir for Darshan and Aarti.
It has been a tradition for years for people of Shirdi to first tie the rakhi to the idol of Sai Baba. The puja thali is prepared, and idol of Baba is decorated and dressed up for the festival. Once the Rakhi for Sai is augmented, only then is the festival celebrated in its full glory in the homes of the local people. This gesture of tying Sai Baba the rakhi, is a devotional act, that brings peace and calm to even those who might be alone or away from home.
Besides, Shirdi itself gears up for the festival and there is a lot of bustle around the town as shops are lined up with Rakhis and souvenirs.
Sai Teerth Theme Park
Located about only five minutes from the Sai Baba Mandir, the Sai Teerth Shirdi Theme Park is a devotional park that takes visitors on a unique and spiritual journey. The theme park highlights the life of Shirdi Sai Baba using technology that keeps the audiences interested, intrigued and informed.
On Raksha Bandhan, families can visit the park and siblings can enjoy the shows and rides together. Also, visitors can get rakhis for Sai and tie them on the idol of Sai Baba. The Sai Palki, a special attraction lets visitors walk and take pictures with Sai (model dressed up as the saint). Children can also tie rakhis to the staff at the park and all visitors can spend a meaningful day unravelling and educating themselves about the many religious and cultural facets of the Baba’s life.
Things to do at Sai Teerth
There are several rides, shows and different activities that can be explored at Sai Teerth. The Laser Show is an excellent rendition of Sai Baba’s life that comes to life on a 105ft wall. In Dwarkamai visitors get a chance to interact with a life-like humanoid avatar of the Baba. This animatronics and robotics show recreates the ancient Dwarkamai layout and showcases breathtaking technological advances. In Sabka Malik Ek, the teachings of Sai’s life unfold on the Giant Screen. The one-hour long film is played multiple times throughout the day and offers an exhilarating experience for movie watchers. The Rubik’s Cube Mosaic of the Baba pays exceptional attention to details and is an artistic wonder.
Teerth Yatra is a peaceful ride that makes visitors travel and visit the ten most religious and sacred temples of India. One can pass Badrinath, Kedarnath, Meenakshi Temple, Dwarka and many more spiritual sites.
Lanka Dahan is a 5D show that tells the story of Hanuman in Lanka. A spectacularly mesmerizing show it brings other elements, such as, sound, touch, motion, air and water into the experience.
All these attractions at Sai Teerth make it a must visit destination in Shirdi, especially during Raksha Bandhan. The divine aura and ambiance complements the festive mood.
Services and Facilities
Sai Teerth Theme Park offers a range of facilities and amenities for visitors. There is a baggage counter, wheelchair facilities, parking space and medical aid. Besides, the merchandise shop gives easy access to purchase souvenirs and gifts. On Raksha Bandhan, brothers can buy appropriate gifts for their sisters that they will cherish for life. Similarly, there is a photography counter, where one can click pictures against the majestic background of the theme park. The delicious foods served at the food stalls, restaurants and kiosks provide the perfect dining and snacking facilities for all.
Raksha Bandhan celebrations at Sai Teerth Shirdi reflect the culture, spirituality and tenor of this important Indian festival. The pious and revered atmosphere seamlessly blends with the innovative technology and attractions of the theme park. The facilities, dining, staff and the overall experience give visitors a feeling of calm contentment. Spending Raksha Bandhan at Sai Teerth and soaking the festivities in the divine town of Shirdi, is perhaps one of the best ways to celebrate the deep bond of love, friendship and protection between siblings.
