Chapter 35 discusses the importance of direct experience over preconceived notions. How is this idea illustrated in the context of visiting Sai Baba in Shirdi?

Chapter 35 strongly emphasizes the principle that direct experience is superior to blind faith or preconceived judgments. The text introduces individuals who, based on hearsay, developed a critical view of Sai Baba. They questioned his sainthood because he asked for Dakshina and resolved to visit him without showing reverence. As the chapter states, their motto was, 'Blind faith is not good; only after taking a direct experience, Should we decide in our hearts how to behave.' True to this, their encounter with Sai Baba completely transformed them. The chapter narrates that through the 'union of Darshan,' their pride and false logic were shattered, and they surrendered at his feet, forgetting their initial resolve. This powerful transformation serves as the core illustration of how a direct, personal encounter with a true Guru can override intellectual pride and skepticism.