Explore the significance of Shirdi as a place, as depicted in the opening verses of Chapter 39. What made it a 'place of pilgrimage'?

The beginning of Chapter 39 extols the virtues of Shirdi, declaring it "blessed, blessed." The text attributes the village's greatness and holiness directly to the presence of Shri Sai. It states that Shirdi was initially a small village but grew in stature and "attained the status of a place of pilgrimage" because of him. The Dwarkamai, where Sai lived until his last breath, is also described as blessed. As this chapter makes clear, Sai's presence and grace were the sole reasons for Shirdi's transformation from a small village into a sacred and revered destination for devotees.