How did Sai Baba describe his own identity, and how did this contrast with the way his followers saw him?

Chapter 23 of the Sai Satcharitra highlights a fascinating contrast in perception. Devotees considered Sai Baba to be an Incarnation (Avatar) because he displayed all the requisite signs and characteristics. Yet, Baba himself rejected such grand titles. He would humbly state, 'I am a humble servant in the court of Allah,' and constantly referred to himself as a 'poor servant.' His frequent chants were 'Allah Malik' (God is the Master), not 'Anal Haq' (I am God). This chapter shows that despite being seen as an Avatar, he chose to model perfect human conduct and profound humility.