Please elaborate on the close bond between Maharaj and Tatya Patil.

Maharaj and Tatya Patil shared a uniquely affectionate bond, with Tatya calling Maharaj "Mama" (maternal uncle). As Chapter 0 explains, this deep love stemmed from the dedicated service of Tatya's mother, Bayajabai, who fed Maharaj during a time when many villagers considered him mad. The fruit of her service was bestowed upon her family, and especially Tatya, whom Maharaj pampered and gave money to. Their loving evening conversations were a sight to behold, and Tatya was entrusted with all arrangements in the Masjid and Chavadi. He would even have to personally come and raise Maharaj, demonstrating their profound closeness and interdependence.