Shani Shingnapur Temple

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Shani Shingnapur Mandir is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shani (Saturn), located in the village of Shani Shingnapur in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, India. The temple is known for its unique tradition where there are no doors or locks in the village, and the devotees believe that Lord Shani will protect their homes and belongings. The temple has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The temple is believed to have been built by a shepherd who found a black stone while grazing his cows. The temple follows traditional Hindu temple architecture, with a simple structure and a dome-shaped roof. The temple also has a black stone idol of Lord Shani, which is believed to be a self-manifested idol. The temple is considered to be one of the most powerful temples dedicated to Lord Shani in India. The devotees believe that Lord Shani will protect them from evil and bring them good fortune. The village of Shani Shingnapur is known for its unique tradition where there are no doors or locks in the houses. The villagers believe that Lord Shani will protect their homes and belongings, and there have been no reports of theft or burglary in the village. The temple has been in the news for its progressive approach towards gender equality. In 2016, the temple authorities decided to allow women to enter the inner sanctum of the temple and offer prayers to Lord Shani, breaking away from the age-old tradition of prohibiting women from entering the sanctum. The decision was welcomed by women's rights activists and marked a significant step towards gender equality in Indian society. The temple's move was also in line with the Supreme Court's ruling that allowed women of all ages to enter the Sabarimala Mandir in Kerala, which had a similar tradition of prohibiting women from entering the inner sanctum. The temple follows elaborate rituals and ceremonies, including the daily poojas and aartis. The temple also celebrates several festivals, including Shani Jayanti and Navratri. Overall, Shani Shingnapur Mandir is a significant religious site in India, attracting thousands of devotees every year. The temple's unique tradition and the belief in Lord Shani's protection have made it a popular destination for people seeking good fortune and protection from evil. The temple's peaceful and serene atmosphere, surrounded by beautiful greenery, offers a tranquil experience to the visitors.

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How to Reach

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By Air

The nearest airport to Shani Shingnapur is Aurangabad Airport (IXU), which is approximately 85 kilometers away. From the airport, avail taxi or bus service to reach Shani Shingnapur. The journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the road conditions.

By Rail

The nearest railway station to Shani Shingnapur is Ahmednagar Railway Station (ANG), which is around 35 kilometers away. From the railway station, avail taxi or bus service to reach Shani Shingnapur. The journey takes approximately 1-2 hours.

By Road

Shani Shingnapur is well-connected by road to major cities and towns in Maharashtra. You can reach the temple by state-run buses, or avail of private bus and taxi services. Several cities and towns, including Ahmednagar, Shirdi, and Aurangabad, have regular bus services to Shani Shingnapur.

Getting Around

Shani Shingnapur or Shani Shinganapur or Shingnapur is a village in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Situated in Nevasa taluka in Ahmednagar district, the village is known for its popular temple of Shani, the Hindu god associated with the planet Saturn called Shani Shingnapur Mandir. Begin your visit by seeking blessings from Lord Shani at the temple. Nandur Shingnapur is a nearby village that is home to the Nandur Shingnapur Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located about 20 kilometers from Shani Shingnapur and is worth a visit for devotees. Ahmednagar is the nearest city located about 35 kilometers from Shani Shingnapur. You can visit places like the Ahmednagar Fort, Meherabad, Nighoj Potholes, Lenyadri Caves, Bhimashankar Temple, Siddhatek Siddhivinayak Temple, and the Shri Siddheshwar Temple. Indulge in the local Maharashtrian cuisine while visiting Shani Shingnapur. You can try traditional dishes like Misal Pav, Vada Pav, and Maharashtrian sweets like Puran Poli.

Do's and Don'ts

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Do's

The proper dress code of wearing a dhoti must be followed by men when visiting Shani Shingnapur Temple and women must wear traditional attires like suits or sarees.
Despite being open to women, only men are allowed on the platform to worship Shani Maharaj.
The devotee must take a head bath and get on the platform in wet clothes.
The devotee must be bare-headed (not wearing a cap or a covering cloth on the head).
Collect water for the worship of Lord Shani only from the holy well.
Devotees also use sesame oil for worship.
Oil should be offered to Shani Dev, but keep in mind that the oil should not fall here and there. Always use iron utensils to offer oil to Shani Dev and use good oil. If you are doing a shadow donation, then do not offer that oil and keep it at the feet of Shani Dev along with the bowl.
Direction has special significance in the worship of Shani. Shani is considered the lord of the west direction, so while worshiping Shani, it has to be kept in mind that your face should be towards the west. Originally Shani Dev is formed as a Shila.
If there is any poor, handicapped, or beggar outside the Shani temple, then definitely donate to him. If you cannot donate, then at least do not despise them. Be nice to everyone there.

Don'ts

Never worship or pray while standing in front of the idol of Shani Dev.
Never show your back to Shani Dev and never stand still while worshiping Shani Dev. After worshiping, return backward.
During the darshan at the Shani temple, one should not look at the idol of Lord Shani Dev for a long time by putting his eyes in the eyes.
It is believed that Shani Dev does not like red color, so red flowers or any red material should not be used in worship on Saturday.
Do not do any kind of worldly talks in the Shani temple. After silently doing your puja or prayer, sit on the steps of the temple for a while and come back.