Who was Damu Anna and what was his connection to the Shirdi community?

Damu Anna was a wealthy bronze-smith, or Kasar, from Ahmednagar who was a devout follower of Sai Baba. His story, as detailed in Chapter 25 of the Shri Sai Satcharitra, is presented as an example of Sai's love for His devotees. His primary connection to the Shirdi community was his significant role in the annual Ram Navami festival. For many years, he fulfilled a vow to provide one of the two large new flags that were carried in a procession through the village. This act, carried out with uninterrupted love and devotion, solidified his place as a key figure in the local traditions and demonstrated his unwavering faith.