“Sri Shirdi Saibaba Mahathyam” is a 1986 Telugu-language musical biographical film directed by K. Vasu. The film tells the life story of Shirdi Sai Baba, a revered saint who preached and practiced religious humanism. Here’s an overview of the film:
Plot: The film portrays the life of Sadguru Sai Baba of Shirdi, who lived during British India. Initially, Sai Baba was shunned by both Hindus and Muslims. Hindu Bal Bhate forbade him from entering any temple due to his Muslim faith. A Muslim named Rohila, initially critical of Sai, eventually becomes his devotee after recognizing the divine in him. The film also highlights Sai’s interactions with various devotees, including Bhagoti, a leper whom Sai cures, and his unique relationships with his followers, whom he regards as family.
Sai Baba’s teachings emphasize praying to God as the Creator, loving and respecting all living beings, and washing away sins through acts of charity. He often utters phrases like “Allah Bhala Kare” and “Bhagwan Bhala Kare” to convey his message of universal love and harmony. The film depicts Sai appearing in various forms to cater to the diverse spiritual preferences of his devotees. It also includes significant moments in Sai Baba’s life, such as his prophetic dreams and the construction of a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.
Cast: The film features the following notable cast members:
- Vijayachander as Shirdi Sai Baba
- Chandra Mohan as Nanavali
- Kanta Rao as Shyama
- Seshagiri Rao as Mahalsapathi
- Anjali Devi as Baayeeja Bai
- Sarath Babu as Chand Patel
- J. V. Somayajulu as Nana Chandorkar
- Ramakrishna as Aayaram
- Chalam as Gayaram
- Suthi Veerabhadra Rao as Bal Bhate
- Tyagaraaju as Daroga Dasuganu
- Adabala as Bhagoti
Soundtrack: The film’s soundtrack, composed by Ilaiyaraaja with lyrics by Acharya Aatreya, received wide appreciation. Some of the popular songs from the film include:
- “Baba Sai Baba Neevu Maavale Manishivani” sung by S. P. Balasubrahmanyam
- “Daivam Manava Roopamlo Avatarinchunee Lokamlo” sung by P. Susheela
- “Hey Panduranga Hey Pandarinadha Saranam” sung by Yesudas
- “Jai Shirdi Naadha Saideva” (Dandakam) sung by V. Ramakrishna
- “Maa Paapala Tolaginchu Deepala Neeve Veliginchinavayya” sung by Yesudas
- “Nuvvu Leka Anadhalam Bratukanta Ayomayam Baba” sung by S. P. Balasubrahmanyam and Chorus
- “Slokams” sung by Yesudas
“Sri Shirdi Saibaba Mahathyam” is a beloved Telugu film that explores the life and teachings of the revered saint Sai Baba, emphasizing his message of universal love and spirituality.
