Who was Mhalasapati, and what was his significance in the story of Sai Baba's arrival in Shirdi?

Mhalasapati was a pivotal figure in the early days of Sai Baba's time in Shirdi. As Chapter 0 explains, he was a goldsmith by caste and a resident of Shirdi who was a devout follower of Khandoba. His most significant role described in this text was being the person who named Sai Baba. When Maharaj, wearing a kafni and cap, entered the Khandoba temple, it was Mhalasapati who first welcomed him with the words 'Aavo Sai Baba.' This name stuck with Maharaj for the rest of his life. Mhalasapati, along with his companions, also made it a practice to serve and care for the various saints and fakirs who visited the village.