How did Annasaheb Dabholkar, the author of Shri Sai Satcharita, initially feel about Gurus, and what changed his mind?

The preface in Chapter 0 reveals a profound transformation in Annasaheb Dabholkar's beliefs. Initially, he harbored no devotion or love for the Guru and even considered the concept of making a Guru to be a fraud, taking great pride in his own abilities. However, this perspective was completely shattered the moment his eyes met Sai Baba's. An internal spiritual witness was awakened, and he became fully convinced that one cannot cross the ocean of life without the guidance of a Sadguru. This transformative encounter led to the writing of the Shri Sai Satcharita, which is considered the fruit of Baba's grace.