Significance of Gurusthan
"In human life, the Guru's place is prominent.
By keeping utmost faith in the Guru alone, everything is obtained.
A devotee's entire strength is due to his Guru.
Devotion to the Guru is superior to devotion to gods and goddesses.
The Guru is the Supreme Being. "
Gurusthan Construction by Shirdi Sai Gurusthan Trust:
The trustees decided, the proposed Gurusthan resembles like Baba's Gurusthan at Shirdi, consists, in addition to the neem tree, there is a pair of marble padukas on a pedestal, a 'Shivalinga' and a statue of Baba. The statue, to be carved by the grandson of the sculptor of the Samadhi Mandir statue and to be installed during Kumbabhishekam of main mandir.
Gurusthan is a powerful place to sit quietly. Some people regard the tree as a symbol of the Guru's grace under which humanity may take shelter and protection. Indeed, Sai Baba once commented that his devotees are simply resting in the shade of the neem tree while he bears the brunt of their deeds.
This statement is further confirmed by details given in Sri Sai Satcharitra, Chapter – 4, "A Par (platform) was built round the neem tree and lofts with steps were constructed. Under the steps, there is a niche facing south and devotees sit on the Par (platform) facing north. It is believed, that he who burns incense there, on Thursday and Friday evenings will, by God's grace, be happy."
"Sada Nimbarvrikshasya mooladhiwasat,
Sudhasravinam tiktamapi-apriyam tam,
Tarum Kalpavrikshadhikam sadhayantam
Namameeshwaram Sadgurum Sai Natham"
" I bow to Lord Sainath, who by his constant stay at the foot of the neem tree – which although bitter and unpleasant, was yet oozing nectar – made it better than the wish-fulfilling tree. I bow to Lord Sainath, who always takes delight in resting under the neem tree and bestowing material and spiritual prosperity upon his devotees who lovingly attend on him."
