How did Chand Patil first encounter Sai Baba?

Chand Patil's first meeting with Sai Baba was a matter of chance, precipitated by a personal loss. As detailed in Chapter 5 of the Shri Sai Satcharitra, Chand Patil, a resident of Dhup village, had lost his mare and was searching for her for two months without success. Feeling completely disappointed, he was walking back from Aurangabad with the saddle on his back when he came across a mango tree. Beneath it sat a Fakir, who was Sai Baba. The Fakir called out to Patil, inviting him to rest and smoke a chillum, which marked the beginning of their significant interaction.