From a devotee's point of view, what was the significance of receiving Udi, particularly when planning to leave Shirdi?

For a devotee, receiving Udi from Sai Baba was a deeply significant act, as described in Chapter 33. When devotees wished to return to their villages, they would first ask for Baba's permission. The text explicitly states that 'true permission was granted then' when Baba would give them the Udi. This gesture would fill the devotee's mind with enthusiasm and assurance for their journey. This practice was so integral to the Shirdi experience that it was known to all devotees. Beyond just a signal for departure, the act of giving Udi was a constant form of blessing that Baba bestowed upon visitors throughout the day, ensuring no one left his side without this sacred gift.