What is the significance of Sai Baba's Udi? Is it just a blessing, or does it have other functions?

The significance of Sai Baba's Udi, or sacred ash, is multifaceted, serving as both a symbol of his blessing and a potent tool for spiritual and worldly well-being. As explained in Chapter 35, receiving Udi Prasad from Baba was the formal signal of his permission to leave Shirdi, a crucial step to avoid obstacles on one's journey. Beyond this, Chapter 35 also provides a powerful example of its protective qualities. A gentleman from Bandra, plagued by tormenting nightmares, found immediate relief and peaceful sleep simply by applying Udi to his forehead and keeping it under his pillow, as advised by a devotee. This illustrates that Udi is not merely a parting gift but a manifestation of Baba's grace and power to remove troubles.