Gurusthan is the place where Sai Baba first manifests himself under a sacred neem tree in Shirdi as a boy of 16 years. This place is believed to be the Gurusthan (seat of the teacher) of Sai Baba, hence the name. The Neem (Margosa) tree at the Gurusthan symbolizes the loving grace that Sri Sai showers upon all those who seek refuge in him. Padukas of the lord are installed at the foot of the Neem Tree.
Chand Patil was once riding through the forest when suddenly he felt an acute urge to smoke. To his great dismay, however, he found that he did not have the wherewithal to ignite a fire to light his chelum with. Seeing Sai Baba seated under a tree, the rider approached him for a match. Baba had no matches, but just by thrusting the tongs nearly, he produced flames. The rider witnessing the miracle realizes Baba’s divine stature and kneels to him in devotion.
Lendi Gardens assumed spiritual prominence as a place, where Sai Baba meditated for a few hours every day. The garden is called Lendi, as it is named after a stream which sprung out when Baba dug a well for drinking water. The well still remains and is called ‘Baba’s Shivdi’. Baba lit a lamp in earthenware and watered plants daily.The huge Neem tree inside the garden premises provided shade and rest to Sai Baba during his lifetime.
Nanda Deep is the perpetually-burning lamp lit by Sai Baba between the Neem and Bodhi trees. It was a place where Baba sat in contemplation. The area serves as a focus for worship, and pradakshina.
Tulasi Vrindavan is a place of divinity where Tulasi is planted in a specially built structure which has images of deities installed on all four sides and an alcove for a small earthen oil lamp.
