What was Tatya Patil's role in the Chavadi procession, and what does it reveal about his relationship with Sai Baba?

Tatya Patil played an integral and intimate role in the Chavadi procession. According to the account in Chapter 37, Sai Baba would not even begin to leave the Masjid until Tatya arrived. Tatya would then place his hand under Baba's arm to help Him stand up. He also placed a beautiful golden-bordered shawl over Baba. During the procession itself, Tatyaba held Baba's left hand. Their bond was so close and loving that Tatya used to call Baba 'Mama' (uncle), and the text states their close relationship was beyond comparison.