How did the town of Shirdi become so important to devotees?

According to the texts, Shirdi's glory is a direct result of Sai Baba's presence there. Chapter 4 explains that just as saints like Eknath and Dnyandev made their respective towns of Paithan and Alandi famous, Sai made Shirdi glorious. For followers, Shirdi is elevated to the status of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites, being equated with Pandharpur, Jagannath, Dwarka, Kashi, and Rameshwar. The author notes that even the grass and stones of Shirdi are considered blessed because they were able to kiss the feet of Baba. This transformation of a simple place into a major spiritual center is central to its importance.