How does Sai Baba's disregard for elaborate rituals relate to his teachings on Maya?

Sai Baba's teachings on Maya and his preference for devotion over rituals are deeply interconnected. In Chapter 13, Baba describes Maya as a powerful, irresistible illusion that torments even him and can only be overcome through "continuous bhajan (devotion) of Hari." By stating, "I do not need a collection of puja materials," he steers devotees away from external actions that can become distractions. He instead points them toward the internal practice of devotion, which is the very tool needed to sever the grip of Maya. His focus on the substance of faith ('bhava') rather than the form of rituals shows that true devotion is the direct path to transcending worldly illusion.