What was the relationship like between Sai Baba and Tatya Patil?

The bond between Sai Baba and Tatya Patil was exceptionally close and filled with mutual love. According to Chapter 37, their relationship was so intimate that Tatya used to affectionately call Baba 'Mama,' which means maternal uncle. The text emphasizes that there is "no comparison to give for their close relationship." A clear demonstration of this bond was that Baba, even when fully prepared for the Chavadi procession, would remain seated and wait specifically for Tatya to arrive and help Him to His feet before they would leave together.