From Sai Baba's perspective, what was the reason for Dev's failure to recognize him at the Udyapan?

From Sai Baba's perspective, Dev's failure to recognize him was a matter of Dev's own delusion and lack of perception. When Jog presented Dev's letter of complaint, Baba's response, as detailed in Chapter 40, was direct. He told Jog to ask Dev, "You did not recognize Me! Why then did you call Me?" This question implies that a true invitation requires a deeper sight that can pierce through external forms. Baba confirmed he fulfilled his promise exactly, coming first as a lone Sanyasi and then returning with two others. The text indicates that the Sanyasi's "previous purpose spread a veil of Maya," and Dev's mind was fixed on the idea that he was just "some guest," strengthening the delusion.