Why was it such a big deal when Sai Baba told Jog to give Cholkar tea with a lot of sugar?

The instruction about the tea was profoundly significant because it was a direct acknowledgment of Cholkar's secret vow. As Chapter 15 explains, Cholkar had privately renounced sugar until he could afford to visit Shirdi. Baba, who did not even drink tea Himself, brought up the subject at the perfect moment. By telling Jog to give Cholkar tea "well-filled with sugar," He showed that Cholkar's vow was accepted and his period of renunciation was complete. This act was not about the tea itself, but was a powerful confirmation of Baba's omniscience, which brought tears of joy to Cholkar's eyes and solidified his devotion.