Arati is a form of congregational worship with music and lights, celebrated with particular elan in Maharashtra and especially in Shirdi. Those interested in the history of arati and its evolution in Shirdi are referred to Arati Sai Baba - the Psalm Book of Shirdi Aratis by Sri Sainathuni Sarath Babuji.
For many who come to Shirdi, attendance at arati is one of the highlights of their visit. It is perhaps during arati that we can most easily experience the essence of Shirdi and the power of Baba's presence. Some people experience a heightened state and speak of a dissolution of the sense of separation, the erosion of the boundary between self and God. Others say that this is the time when Baba comes "alive" for them and answers their questions and prayers.
The effect of the group and its stirring emotion - of faith, longing and devotion - acts powerfully on the heart. The atmosphere becomes highly charged and there is a palpable sense of the numinous. In Baba's time too, it seems that arati was an occasion when his grace was particularly felt and experienced by the devotees. Some of these instances are recorded in Shirdi Diary by G. S. Khaparde who, in his own phlegmatic style, speaks of a particular elation at such times. The impact of the ceremony is intensified by dazzling sensual input: for the eyes there is a dynamic kaleidoscope of colourful images (the fondly adorned statue and samadhi, the waving arati flame, the red and gold uniform of the mace-bearing chopdars); for the ears there are the melodious and passionately rendered songs accompanied by harmonium and other instruments - not to mention the thrilling cries of praise at the end; and for fragrance there is the aroma of incense, rose-water and numerous flower offerings.