How did the author, a self-proclaimed debater, end up planning a trip to Shirdi, and what event might have influenced his perspective on faith?

Despite his cynical and argumentative nature, the author's journey to Shirdi was set in motion by destiny and his connections. Chapter 2 reveals that his trip was fixed due to the insistence of Kakasaheb Dixit and Nanasaheb Chandorkar, with whom he had a past life connection. Although his mind wavered on the day of departure, a significant event seems to have impacted him. A close friend's healthy son died suddenly from a fever in Lonavala, despite all medical remedies and even the physical presence of a Guru at his side. Witnessing this tragedy, where faith and a Guru's presence did not prevent death, likely challenged his logic-driven worldview and made him more open to the experience of Shirdi.