What was the spiritual context of Shirdi when Maharaj arrived, and how does his shift from medicine to 'Udi' reflect his spiritual journey?

When Maharaj arrived, Shirdi was already a place touched by holiness, as it was on a walking path for pilgrims, and various saints like Devidas and Janakidas resided or visited there. Chapter 0 explains Maharaj's personal spiritual evolution through his change in healing methods. He moved from the physical act of giving medicine to the spiritual practice of giving Udi (ash). He articulated this shift by telling a writer, "I stopped giving medicine and started saying 'Hari Hari', and while saying Hari Hari, I met Hari." This suggests a transition from worldly service to a state of divine communion, a profound inner attainment that other advanced saints like Gangagir Baba and Anandnath Maharaj immediately recognized, calling him a "gem" and a "diamond."