What reasons are given in Chapter 1 for performing invocations and writing the Shri Sai Satcharitra?

The first chapter explains that auspicious invocations, or Mangalacharan, are performed at the start of any task for its obstacle-free completion. The author follows this tradition to remove all hindrances and gain the grace of the deities. The ultimate purpose of writing the book is also hinted at through the invocations. For instance, when praying to Goddess Saraswati, the author asks her to 'make me the instrument to feed the nectar of the life of the capable Sai to everyone.' As further stated in Chapter 1, Sai, in the form of Saraswati, is 'singing his own life story for the salvation of his devotees,' implying the book is a vehicle for spiritual liberation and a means to share Sai's divine life with all.