This Shani temple is close to Shiral–Madha village, just off NH‑9 in Madha Taluka, part of the Solapur district in Maharashtra. The main deity of this temple is Lord Shani (Shani Dev), the powerful planetary god representing Saturn. In this temple, Lord Shani is worshipped as a stone idol (Shilarupi), hence the name “Shilarupi Shree Shani.” Devotees believe that Shani Dev controls justice, karma, and discipline. People come here to seek his blessings for relief from obstacles, suffering, and negative planetary effects.
The temple structure is modest yet traditional, with a tiled roof, a simple Mandapa (prayer hall), and a Garbhagriha (sanctum) housing the stone idol of Shani Dev. The walls are adorned with pictures of Navagrahas (nine planetary deities) and spiritual quotes. Outside the sanctum, there is a deepa stambha (lamp pillar) where devotees light oil lamps, especially on Saturdays. The temple premises include open space for devotees to sit, meditate, and participate in rituals.
Long ago, the region around Madha in Solapur district suffered from a long spell of misfortune—crops failed, illnesses spread, and people faced financial troubles. The villagers believed they were going through a period of severe Shani Dosha (the negative influence of the planet Saturn). Many consulted astrologers, who confirmed that Shani Dev was testing the people of the land.
One day, a humble and devout farmer from the nearby Shiral-Madha village was ploughing his field when his plough struck a large, smooth black stone buried in the earth. Curious and slightly alarmed, he tried to move it, but the stone wouldn’t budge. That night, the farmer had a vivid dream in which a tall, radiant figure dressed in black robes appeared and said, “I am Shani Dev. You have found my Shilarupi (stone) form. Install me at this very spot, and I shall watch over this land and bring justice to all.” The vision felt real and powerful, and the farmer shared the dream with village elders.
The community came together and installed the stone at the place where it was found. They began offering mustard oil, black sesame, and prayers. Over time, the area’s difficulties started to ease—rains returned, harvests improved, and villagers slowly came out of their hardships. People began visiting from nearby talukas and towns, offering oil and cloth to the Shani Shila (stone), which had now come to be known as Shilarupi Shree Shani.
The main day of worship at the temple is Saturday, which is considered highly auspicious for Shani Dev. On this day, devotees offer black sesame seeds, mustard oil, black cloth, and flowers. Special abhishekam (ritual bathing), deepa aradhana (lamp offering), and Shani mantras are chanted throughout the day. The temple sees a huge crowd of devotees on Saturdays, especially during the Shani Trayodashi and Shani Jayanti festivals. Local villagers often organize bhajans and annadanam (free food offerings) during these events.
Visiting this temple is believed to bring peace of mind, protection from Saturn’s ill effects, and strength to face challenges. Many people come here during their Sade-Sati or Shani Dasha periods to perform remedies and prayers.
