How did the individual known as Maharaj come to be called 'Sai Baba'?

The name 'Sai Baba' was bestowed upon Maharaj by a gentleman named Mhalasapati. According to the introductory section in Chapter 0, when Maharaj first entered the Khandoba temple in Shirdi, Mhalasapati saw him and welcomed him with the words "Aavo Sai Baba," which means "Come, Sai Baba." Maharaj held onto this name for the rest of his life. The text further clarifies that when his testimony was taken in a commission and he was asked his name, he simply replied, "They call me Sai Baba." Mhalasapati then introduced him to his companions, who also began calling him Baba.