Shirdi to shut from midnight following birthplace controversy

Locals have called for a shut-down at the temple town of Shirdi in Maharashtra on Sunday over a controversy over the birthplace of Saibaba, the 19th century spiritual figure. However, the famous Saibaba temple in the town will remain open, its trustees said on Saturday.

Controversy erupted after Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray announced a grant of Rs 100 crore for development of facilities at "Sai janmasthan" (birthplace) at Pathri in Parbhani district.