Shirdi Sai Sansthan Deploys AI-Powered

Shirdi Sai Sansthan Deploys AI-Powered Solutions by Prisma AI

Shirdi, Maharashtra – September 11, 2025 — The Shri Sai Baba Sansthan in Shirdi has taken a significant step towards modernizing crowd management and enhancing security with the installation of an AI-powered people counting system developed by Prisma AI. The system was inaugurated in the presence of Sansthan CEO Goraksha Gadilkar and Dr. Shreeram Iyer, Founder and CEO of Prisma AI, marking the beginning of a technology-driven approach to handling large gatherings at one of India’s most visited spiritual centers.

The system has been deployed at two of the busiest points in the temple premises — Gate No. 2 (Mukhadarshan Out) and Gate No. 4 (Boondi Prasad Out). It continuously monitors the inflow and outflow of devotees, generating accurate real-time data that helps administrators manage queues, streamline prasad distribution, and ensure the availability of essential facilities such as drinking water and seating. Officials noted that the technology is expected to significantly improve operations during peak hours and festival days, when the temple experiences exceptionally high foot traffic.

Beyond counting visitors, the system incorporates facial recognition technology to strengthen security measures. If any flagged or suspicious individuals are identified from existing records, the system immediately alerts on-ground security personnel. Plans are also underway to link the system with local police surveillance cameras, which would expand monitoring beyond the temple complex and add another layer of safety for devotees.

During the launch, Dr. Shreeram Iyer, Founder and CEO of Prisma AI, highlighted the broader vision behind the initiative. “At Prisma AI, our mission is to apply artificial intelligence for the greater good. With this system at Shirdi, we are not only improving the devotee experience but also enhancing safety and security in one of India’s most important spiritual centers,” he said.

Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Goraksha Gadilkar, CEO of Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Trust, expressed confidence in the system’s benefits. “The AI-based people counting system will help us manage large crowds more effectively and provide a better experience for devotees. We believe this technology will serve as a benchmark for other pilgrimage centers across the country,” he remarked.

The initiative has already garnered attention from the media, with coverage by outlets such as ETV Bharat and R Shirdi News. Reports highlighted how the system seamlessly blends tradition with technology, positioning Shirdi as a model for adopting innovative solutions in both religious and public spaces.

Looking ahead, Prisma AI and the Sansthan are considering expanding the system to other high-density areas, including Palkhi Road and additional temple zones. The introduction of advanced dashboards for live monitoring, overcrowding alerts, and predictive analytics is also planned. Such developments are expected to strengthen the management of large gatherings further and could pave the way for similar projects at other pilgrimage destinations in India.

The implementation at Shirdi demonstrates the growing role of artificial intelligence in improving public safety and visitor experience. By combining innovation with spiritual heritage, the project reflects how technology can serve communities in meaningful ways, setting a precedent for the future of crowd management in India’s cultural and religious institutions.