He was a great speaker and would initiate discussions on spiritual subjects. His explanations would hold the crowd spellbound for hours. An intoxicating frenzy would fill the air, and at times the whole crowd would march together to Bund Garden, led by Merwan Seth, for games and refreshments or for qawaali songs which would often last until late in the night. Gradually, Merwan Seth's name and spiritual reputation spread throughout Poona.
At this same time, Gustadji was set to journey to Poona and take his place by Merwan Seth's side. Sai Baba had dropped his body in October 1918, and Gustadji had been living with Upasni Maharaj, who was acknowledged as a Perfect Master also and heir to Sai Baba's spiritual charge. During the month of December, Upasni instructed Gustadji to leave Sakori and join Merwan Seth, who had previously written Gustadji that he had arranged a job for him in Poona and included money to defray his traveling expenses. After arriving in Poona, Gustadji, under orders from Upasni Maharaj, was now to obey Merwan Seth's instructions and orders.
Gustadji was first instructed to work during the day in the toddyshop. He would then perform the daily puja and arti ceremonies in the temple room next door and, as per Merwan Seth's instructions, spend all night with Babajan on the street under her neem tree. Gustadji got little or no rest, however, because Babajan did not sleep and he had to attend to her every need. It was winter and cold at night, and Gustadji would carry wood on his head from the toddyshop to Babajan's area to make a fire to keep the old woman and himself warm.
After a few months, Gustadji suggested to Merwan Seth, "It would be more proper if Babajan had a better place on which to rest than the dirt road."
Merwan Seth agreed, saying, "But first find out if it is all right with her. And ask if a wooden platform is good enough."
Gustadji asked Babajan, and again she agreed. Merwan Seth paid for the platform and arranged to have it built.
Again after few months, Gustadji approached Merwan Seth saying, "It would be more proper if Babajan had a better place on which to rest. How about having a mattress made?"
Merwan Seth agreed, then said, "But first find out if it is all right with her."
Gustadji asked her. Babajan agreed, but told Gustadji, "You will have to carry the mattress wherever I go."