Tell me about Damu Anna. Who was he and what was his connection to the Ram Navami festival in Shirdi?

According to Chapter 25, Damu Anna was a wealthy Kasar, or bronze-smith, from Ahmednagar who was a devoted follower of Sai Baba. He is presented as a great devotee whose story demonstrates Sai's readiness to protect His followers. Damu Anna had two wives but was childless until he was blessed with sons through Sai's grace. In gratitude, he made a vow concerning the Ram Navami festival. As part of this vow, one of the two large flags taken out in procession through Shirdi village each year belonged to him. This text from Chapter 25 explains that this has been his regular vow for many years, carried out with uninterrupted love and devotion.