According to Chapter 44, the confusion and doubt among devotees after Sai Baba's passing stemmed from a remarkable past event. The text explains that while the cessation of breath on Vijayadashami seemed final, the devotees remembered a prior incident from 32 years earlier. In that instance, Baba had drawn his life force into the crown of his head, appearing to be dead for three full days. He then suddenly returned to his body, relieving everyone's anxiety. Because of this precedent, when he passed away for the final time, his followers were understandably hesitant and doubtful. As Chapter 44 recounts, they questioned whether it was a temporary trance (Samadhi) or a permanent departure (death). This uncertainty led to the extended 26-hour deliberation on how to proceed with the final rites.
Why was there confusion and doubt among the devotees immediately after Sai Baba's body became still, according to Chapter 44?
📖 Chapter 44