The practice of offering food to Shirdi Sai Baba is rooted in the belief that Baba is a divine being who has the power to bless and provide for his devotees. As a spiritual teacher, Baba taught the importance of seva (selfless service) and feeding the hungry as a means of serving God. This belief is shared by both Hindus and Muslims, as Baba himself was known to have followers from both religions.

In the Hindu tradition, offering food to a deity is a common practice, known as prasad. It is believed that when food is offered with devotion and sincerity, it becomes blessed by the deity and is then consumed as a form of spiritual nourishment. Similarly, offering food to Baba is seen as a way to receive his blessings and grace.

In the Muslim tradition, the act of feeding others is considered a form of charity, known as zakat. It is believed that by offering food to those in need, one is fulfilling their duty to serve and help others, which is a core principle of Islam. As Baba was known for his charitable acts and teachings, offering food to him is seen as a way to continue his legacy of serving humanity.

Furthermore, the practice of offering food to Baba also symbolizes the idea of surrendering to a higher power. By offering food, devotees are acknowledging that Baba is the ultimate provider and sustainer, and they are placing their trust in him to take care of their needs.

Additionally, it is believed that Baba himself had a fondness for food and enjoyed being offered meals by his devotees. This is evident in the stories and anecdotes shared by his followers, where Baba is seen happily accepting and consuming food offered to him with love and devotion.

In conclusion, the belief behind the practice of offering food to Shirdi Sai Baba is rooted in the idea of receiving his blessings, serving others, surrendering to a higher power, and honoring his love for food. It is a way for devotees to connect with Baba and seek his guidance and grace in their lives.