How did Sai Baba use Udi in his daily interactions with devotees, and what did it signify when they were leaving Shirdi?

Chapter 33 describes Sai Baba's daily practice involving Udi, the sacred ash from his Dhuni. It was a known custom that Baba would not let any devotee leave his presence empty-handed, giving them Udi in the mornings, afternoons, and evenings. This chapter highlights a specific and important use of the Udi: when devotees sought permission to return to their villages, Baba giving them Udi was the signal that true permission had been granted. As mentioned in the text, this act would make the devotees feel enthusiastic about their departure, knowing they had Baba's full blessing for their journey.