How did the old Deshmukhin demonstrate her determination to receive instruction from Sai Baba?

The old Deshmukhin demonstrated her incredible determination through an extreme act of self-denial. As detailed in Chapter 18, she made a firm resolve in her heart and began a 'dharna,' or fasting protest, at her lodging place. She completely renounced food and water, refusing even a single sip. This wasn't a brief protest; she maintained this fast for three full days and nights, becoming utterly exhausted. The text highlights that her faith was so great that she was prepared for 'Prayopavesha,' or fasting unto death, believing that coming to Shirdi was pointless without receiving the mantra-instruction directly from Baba.