Can you explain why Cholkar delayed fulfilling his vow to Sai Baba and what personal sacrifice he made during that time?

After successfully passing his examination, Cholkar could not immediately fulfill his vow to visit Shirdi. Chapter 15 explains that he faced severe financial constraints, referring to home expenses as a 'threshold-ghat' that is very difficult for a worldly man to cross. Due to this delay, and as a form of penance, Cholkar decided to give up sugar. He considered it an inedible substance until his vow was completed, going so far as to drink his tea without sugar. This secret act of renunciation continued for some time until he was finally able to make the journey to Shirdi.