How did Maharaj come to be known as 'Sai Baba'?

The name 'Sai Baba' was bestowed upon Maharaj as soon as he arrived in Shirdi. As recounted in Chapter 0, Maharaj, who wore a kafni, a cap, and a dhoti, entered the Khandoba temple. Inside, he was met by a local resident and goldsmith named Mhalasapati. The text states that as soon as Mhalasapati saw him, he welcomed him with the words "Aavo Sai Baba," which means "Come, Sai Baba." Maharaj held that name until the end, and the text notes that when his testimony was taken in a commission and he was asked his name, he replied, "They call me Sai Baba."