Why is Shirdi considered such an important place for devotees of Sai Baba?

Shirdi is considered a profoundly important place because Sai Baba made it glorious with His presence, much as other saints sanctified their own towns. Chapter 4 explains that just as Paithan became known by Eknath and Alandi by Dnyandev, Sai made Shirdi a glorious spiritual center. The text elevates its status by equating it with numerous primary pilgrimage sites, stating, "Shirdi is our Pandharpur, Shirdi is Jagannath and Dwarka." This suggests that for a devotee, a visit to Shirdi provides the spiritual merit of visiting many holy places. Even the grass and stones are considered blessed for having been touched by Baba's feet.