The first person to welcome Maharaj to Shirdi was Mhalasapati, a goldsmith and a devout follower of Khandoba. As described in the Introduction (Chapter 0), it was Mhalasapati who, upon seeing Maharaj enter the Khandoba temple, greeted him with the name 'Sai Baba'. Following this welcome, Mhalasapati introduced Baba to his companions, Kashiram Shimpi and Appa Jagle. These three men were known in the village for their service; they would look after and provide hospitality for the various saints, Gosavis, Bairagis, and Fakirs who frequently came to Shirdi.
Who were the first people to welcome and serve Sai Baba in Shirdi, and what was their role in the village?
📖 Chapter 0