Shingnapur Shani Stone Temple, Maharashtra

Address

Shani Shingnapur

Maharashtra

Moolavar

Lord Shani

Introduction

Shani Shingnapur is a village in Nevasa Taluka, Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra, known for its renowned temple dedicated to Lord Shani, the deity associated with the planet Saturn. Located 35 kilometers from Ahmednagar, this village is famous for its distinctive temple and its unique tradition of not having doors or locks.

Puranic Significance:

Legend of the Swayambhu Statue: According to local tradition, the miraculous story of the Shani idol begins with a shepherd discovering a black stone that started bleeding when touched with a pointed rod. This event led to a divine revelation: Lord Shani appeared in the shepherd’s dream, identifying himself as the deity embodied in the stone. Lord Shani instructed the shepherd that no temple roof was needed, as the sky itself was sufficient. He emphasized the importance of performing daily pooja and Tailabhisheka (oil abhisheka) every Saturday and promised protection from dacoits and thieves for the village.
Miraculous Protection: True to the divine promise, the village has historically remained free from theft and burglary. For decades, no houses or shops within a one-kilometer radius of the temple had doors or locks. The first recorded theft in the village occurred in 2010, with another in 2011, but the village still remains largely secure.

Special Features:

Alive Temple: The temple is considered a “jagrut devasthan” or “alive temple,” where the deity is believed to actively reside. The Swayambhu (self-emerged) statue of Lord Shani is a large black rock, symbolizing the deity’s presence. The shrine features a trident (Trishula) and a Nandi (bull) image, with smaller statues of Shiva and Hanuman situated in front.
Open-air Shrine: The shrine is unique in that it is open to the sky, following Lord Shani’s directive to remain without a roof. The temple area is devoid of doors and locks, reflecting the divine protection believed to be provided by Lord Shani.

Belief:

Shani Thrayodashi and Saturdays: Devotees believe that Shani Thrayodashi (the 13th day of the lunar month dedicated to Shani) and Saturdays falling on Amavasya (new moon day) are particularly auspicious. On these days, the temple attracts a large number of devotees seeking Lord Shani’s blessings. The village is noted for its peace, with no reported incidents of riots or violent crimes, and a strong sense of community adherence to divine principles.