How did the annual fair in Shirdi start, and what obstacles did it face?

The annual fair in Shirdi, now celebrated on Ram Navami, originated from an idea by Gopalrao Gund. As described in chapter 0, he suggested holding a fair or Urs to honor Maharaj. This idea was liked and supported by other devotees like Tatya Patil and Madhavrao Deshpande. However, it faced significant opposition from the local Kulkarni, who managed to get the collector to issue an order prohibiting the fair. Despite this initial obstacle, a counter-order was eventually obtained, permitting the celebration. By Maharaj's specific command, the fair was scheduled to occur on Ram Navami, and it has continued annually on that day ever since.