The description of the procession is filled with external displays like golden-bordered shawls, fireworks, and a decorated horse. Isn't this just empty spectacle? What is the real substance behind all this pomp and ceremony?

The external grandeur of the procession was not an empty show but a direct manifestation of the devotees' profound inner love and joy. Chapter 37 emphasizes this by stating, 'men and women walked in rows with love during the bhajan' and were 'all immersed in the joy of bhajan.' The substance was the collective devotion. The fireworks, the jingling bells on the horse Shyamakarna, and the resounding music were the language they used to express a feeling that was otherwise inexpressible. The 'single uproar of Sai’s name' and the fact that the 'loving bhajan was delightful' show that the substance was pure, heartfelt devotion, with the external ceremony being its natural, beautiful overflow.