Why was there confusion and doubt among the devotees about whether Sai Baba had actually died, according to Chapter 44?

The confusion and doubt surrounding Sai Baba's passing, as described in Chapter 44, stemmed directly from a past event. The devotees were uncertain whether Baba's state was true death or a prolonged Samadhi (trance) because of a specific incident that had occurred 32 years prior. In that earlier event, Baba had seemingly drawn His life force into the crown of His head and appeared to be dead for three full days. As Chapter 44 recounts, everyone had assumed He was gone and began discussing final rites, but He suddenly returned to His body, dispelling their anxiety. This memory caused immense doubt when He finally passed, as they wondered if He might rise again.