Shirdi, Maharashtra – The Shirdi Sai Baba Sansthan Trust, which manages the operations of the world-famous Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, has introduced a new coupon system to enhance the distribution of free meals at its prasadalaya. This initiative aims to manage the large crowds efficiently, reduce waiting times, and ensure a smooth experience for devotees visiting the temple.
What is the New Coupon System?
Previously, the temple’s prasadalaya operated on a first-come, first-served basis, often leading to long queues and congestion. Under the new system, devotees will receive meal coupons from designated counters, which will specify the time slot for their meal. This will prevent overcrowding and allow for better organization in serving the thousands of visitors who come for the temple’s annadan (free meal service) daily.
A senior official from the Shirdi Sai Baba Sansthan Trust stated, “We implemented this system to ensure that every devotee receives prasad in an orderly manner without the inconvenience of long waiting periods.”
Why Was the System Introduced?
With thousands of devotees visiting Shirdi every day, the temple’s prasadalaya serves over 40,000 free meals daily, and this number significantly increases during festivals and weekends. The old system often led to overcrowding, long waiting hours, and logistical challenges in food distribution.
The new coupon system is designed to:
✔ Improve crowd control by assigning fixed meal slots.
✔ Ensure equal distribution of food without rush or mismanagement.
✔ Reduce food wastage by monitoring the number of expected diners.
✔ Enhance devotees’ experience by eliminating long queues.
How the New System Works
- Step 1: Devotees collect a meal coupon from designated counters.
- Step 2: Each coupon has a specific time slot mentioned.
- Step 3: Devotees arrive at the prasadalaya at their designated time.
- Step 4: Meals are served in a systematic and hassle-free manner.
The trust has placed multiple coupon distribution counters at different entry points to ensure easy accessibility for all visitors.
Devotees’ Reactions to the Change
While some devotees welcomed the move as a much-needed change, others expressed concerns about adjusting to the new process. Many long-time visitors who were used to the traditional system were initially surprised but later appreciated the improved organization.
A devotee from Mumbai, who regularly visits Shirdi, shared, “At first, I was confused about where to get the coupon, but once I understood the system, it was much easier. I didn’t have to wait in long queues like before.”
However, a few elderly devotees raised concerns about finding the coupon counters, prompting the temple trust to deploy volunteers to assist visitors.
Future Plans and Expansion
The Shirdi Sai Baba Sansthan Trust has announced that this system will be monitored and improved based on feedback. If successful, the trust may introduce similar management techniques in other areas of temple operations, such as darshan queues and accommodation services.
Trust officials have also assured that no devotee will be denied a meal, and arrangements will be made for those who are unable to get coupons due to unforeseen circumstances.
Final Thoughts
This new initiative by the Shirdi Sai Baba Sansthan Trust marks a significant step toward modernizing prasadalaya operations while maintaining the temple’s long-standing tradition of serving free meals to all. By adopting this organized approach, the temple aims to improve devotee satisfaction, reduce food wastage, and maintain better hygiene standards.
Devotees visiting Shirdi are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new system and cooperate with temple authorities for a seamless and spiritual experience.
