How did other saints recognize Sai Baba's greatness when he was not yet widely known?

Several advanced saints immediately recognized Maharaj's immense spiritual stature. When Gangagir Baba first saw Maharaj carrying water, he declared to the villagers, "This is purely a gem. His worth is very great. The village is very lucky that you got this gem." Similarly, Anandnath Maharaj of Akkalkot spontaneously traveled to Shirdi and upon arriving, told the local people, "This is a diamond. You don't know its true value." As Chapter 0 narrates, these unsolicited testimonials from other realized beings highlight that true spiritual greatness is palpable to those with the vision to see it, even before it becomes widely acknowledged.