Who were the first people Sai Baba was introduced to in Shirdi and what was their shared practice?

Upon his arrival in Shirdi, Sai Baba's first encounter was with Mhalasapati in the Khandoba temple. As detailed in Chapter 0, Mhalasapati then brought Maharaj into the village and introduced him to his companions, Kashiram Shimpi and Appa Jagle. These three men shared a common practice of service; they would look after and provide hospitality for the various saints, Gosavis, Bairagis, and Fakirs who frequently came to the busy village of Shirdi. After meeting Maharaj, all three became his total devotees, extending their service and devotion to him. This group formed the core of his initial followers.