How did Sai Baba's presence transform the village of Shirdi?

According to Chapter 4, Sai Baba's presence made the humble place of Shirdi glorious, much like how Paithan became known through Eknath and Alandi through Dnyandev. The author passionately equates Shirdi with the most sacred pilgrimage sites in India, calling it our Pandharpur, Jagannath, Kashi, and Rameshwar. The very grass and stones of Shirdi are considered blessed for having been touched by Baba's feet daily. Association with Sai in Shirdi is described as a very easy spiritual path and the pacification of all worldly life, transforming the town into a paramount spiritual center for devotees.