What led Cholkar to give up sugar, and how did this decision play a role in his experience with Sai Baba?

Cholkar's decision to give up sugar was a direct result of his inability to immediately fulfill a vow he made to Sai Baba. As described in Chapter 15, he had promised to come to Shirdi and distribute sugar candy if he passed an exam. When financial difficulties prevented his immediate travel, there was a "delay in fulfilling the vow." In response, "he gave up sugar." This personal sacrifice became the centerpiece of his later experience with Baba. When Baba specifically instructed that Cholkar be given tea "well-filled with sugar," it demonstrated that Baba was intimately aware of this secret, personal penance, thus providing a powerful and unforgettable confirmation of his faith.