Cholkar delayed fulfilling his vow to Baba. What was the reason for this delay, and what personal sacrifice did he make during that time?

Cholkar's delay in fulfilling his vow was due to worldly financial struggles. After passing his examination by Baba's grace, he was supposed to visit Shirdi. However, Chapter 15 describes how 'for a worldly man, this "threshold-ghat" (home expenses) is very difficult to cross.' This indicates he lacked the necessary funds for the journey. To demonstrate his continued devotion and as a form of penance for this unavoidable delay, Cholkar made a personal sacrifice: he completely gave up sugar. He considered it an 'inedible substance' until his vow was fulfilled, going so far as to drink his tea without sugar. This secret act of renunciation was what made Baba's later instruction to serve him sugary tea so miraculous.