How did the author, who described himself as a staunch debater, eventually make his way to Shirdi?

The author's journey to Shirdi was not of his own initial volition, as he was cynical and prone to argumentation. Chapter 2 reveals that his visit was a result of strong destiny and his past-life connections with Kakasaheb Dixit and Nanasaheb Chandorkar. It was due to Kakasaheb's persistent insistence that the trip to Shirdi was arranged. Even then, the author's mind wavered, and he nearly changed his plans on the very day of departure. This demonstrates that despite his intellectual pride and argumentative nature, external influences and a deeper karmic pull were instrumental in bringing him to Sai Baba's lotus feet.