How did Shirdi's location contribute to its spiritual environment before Baba's fame?

According to the introduction in chapter 0, Shirdi's location played a significant role in its spiritual vibrancy even before Maharaj's fame spread. The town was situated on a walking path for pilgrims heading to major holy sites like Rameshwar and Pandharpur. This meant that "many holy men's feet touched this place from time to time." When Maharaj first arrived, saints like Devidas and the highly advanced Janakidas were already there, and other notable figures like Gangagir Baba were known to visit, all contributing to a spiritually charged atmosphere.