Beyond being a physical blessing, what does the giving of Udi reveal about Sai Baba's nature and his relationship with devotees?

The act of giving Udi is a profound expression of Sai Baba's power and compassionate nature, as detailed in Chapter 35. It is more than a simple parting gift; it is the tangible manifestation of his blessing and permission. The text states that after receiving the Udi Prasad and his blessing, devotees could return "without doubt," signifying the peace and security it conferred. This act also reflects Baba's inscrutable method of attaching devotees to him. Whether someone gave Dakshina or not, Baba, the "cloud of mercy," would not disregard them. By giving them Darshan and Udi, he would attach their devotion to his feet. Therefore, the Udi symbolizes his grace, his control over the devotees' well-being, and his unique power to foster devotion.