How did the community react when they believed Sai Baba had passed away during his three-day trance?

The community's reaction was one of shock, confusion, and division. Chapter 44 describes how the whole village gathered, stunned, as Baba's body lay motionless with no signs of life. As two days passed, the Maulvis, Mullas, and Fakirs began discussing burial. Officials like Appa Kulkarni and Kashiram made a firm decision that Baba had passed and the body should be given rest. However, another faction argued against this haste, insisting that Baba's word was infallible and they should wait. This group was mocked by others who pointed to the cold body as proof that consciousness could not return. This deep concern and debate among the people highlights the tension and uncertainty of the event.