Thursday, or Guruvar, is considered auspicious by many Sai Baba devotees to observe a Vrat dedicated to Shirdi Sai Baba. The vrat consists of fasting, doing puja, alms giving and listening to the story of Shirdi Sai Baba Vrat. The vrat is observed by people of different religion.
On Thursday, Shirdi Sai Baba is worshipped in the morning and in the evening.
Worship is offered to an idol or painting of Sai Baba. The painting is neatly cleaned. A lamp is lit and prayers are offered. Sandalwood paste (chandan) and kumkum are applied on the painting.
Devotees wear yellow color dress and offers yellow flowers to Sai Baba. Garlands
Sweet, dry fruits and fruits are offered to Baba and later distributed as Prasad.
After the puja, people listen to the Sai Baba Vrat Katha or the story associated with Sai Baba fasting.
Those observing the fast eat fruits and drink milk. Some people also take a meal in the evening after pujas and prayers. There is no food restriction. People usually avoid non-vegetarian dishes.
The vrat is observed for nine consecutive Thursdays. People end the ninth Thursday by feeding the poor.
Please note that the vrat was not recommended by Shirdi Sai Baba but many people had their wishes fulfilled and problems solved after observing the vrat.