What was the significance of the Sai Baba portrait that was shown to Dixit in Ahmednagar?

The portrait of Sai Baba holds significant symbolic meaning in the account of Dixit's journey. Chapter 51 describes how after Dixit's travel plans were confirmed, Balasaheb Mirikar unveiled a portrait of Baba. This specific photograph had been sent from Shirdi for repairs as its glass was broken. It was an object of immense devotion for the disciple Megha, who worshipped it as Lord Shankar. The text notes that the repaired portrait was kept covered in Mirikar's drawing room, 'as if waiting for Dixit.' Its reveal at that moment served as a powerful, auspicious sign and a preliminary 'darshan' for the eager devotee, blessing his impending journey before he even departed for Shirdi.