Q. Who was the priest that named Sai Baba of Shirdi as "Sai"?
Answer:
Mahalsapati
Notes: Sai Baba of Shirdi was given the name "Sai" by the priest Mahalsapati upon his arrival in Shirdi around 1858. The word "Sai" signifies a holy or saintly figure, reflecting the deep respect Mahalsapati had for him. Mahalsapati, a temple priest, was among Sai Baba’s earliest and closest devotees and was instrumental in recognizing Sai Baba's spiritual presence. The origins of Sai Baba remain mysterious, yet his teachings of compassion, unity, and religious harmony have greatly influenced Maharashtra and India as a whole.