What specific event inspired Hemadpant to write the Shri Sai Satcharitra?

The primary inspiration for Hemadpant to write the Shri Sai Satcharitra was his witnessing of Sai Baba's act of grinding wheat to dispel the cholera epidemic. As detailed in Chapter 1, the author was filled with 'great wonder' upon seeing this event. He was particularly struck by the 'inconceivable cause and effect'—the mysterious connection between the simple act of grinding wheat and the profound result of ending a deadly disease. This experience caused 'love to surge' in his heart. Chapter 1 explicitly states that seeing this incredible sight made him feel like writing a book and singing 'the sweet story of Baba to my heart's content,' which led to the creation of the Satcharitra.