God is the Creator, the Formless and the Supreme One.
But humans have split themselves into different communities on the basis
of country, language, tradition, doctrine etc. They gave distinct names
to God, raised temples and offer different forms of worship. God incarnated
as Baba on the earth to unite people irrespective of their race and
religion into universal brotherhood.
Mhalsapathy, the priest of the Khandoba Temple
at Shirdi, at first, refused the entry of Baba, suspecting
Him to be a Muslim for the Kafni and the head-gear He wore. One can
observe the holes in Sai's ear-lobes meant for ear-rings. He lived in
the Masjid, but planted a sacred Tulasi plant at a corner. He also lit
"Dhuni" as part of the ritual of fire worship.
Mhalsapathy dreamt of worshipping Baba with sandal paste. From that
day onwards, he used to apply sandal to Baba's forehead and did worship.
When Muslims came to offer sacrifices, Baba used to recite the Holy
Koran with them.
Likewise, He approved of celebrating Ramnavami and Kala Hundi of both
Hindus and Muslims along with the celebration of sandal festival. Shirdi
wore a festive look with flags fluttering on the Masjid, palanquin,
horses, the royal umbrella, whisk fans, musical instruments and so on.
Baba, thus, opened our eyes, by His deeds, to impart a sense of brotherhood
and religious unity.