Why were people so confused about whether Sai Baba had actually died or was just in a deep trance?

The confusion among the people regarding whether Baba's state was death or a Samadhi (trance) stemmed directly from a past event. Chapter 44 explains that upon seeing the cessation of his breath, everyone became doubtful. This was because of a previous incident 32 years prior, where Baba had seemingly died by drawing his life force into the crown of his head for three full days. Just as people had accepted his death then, he suddenly returned to his body, dispelling their anxiety. Remembering this extraordinary event, when Baba's breath stopped for the final time, it was impossible for his followers to be certain. They wondered if he might rise again, making the question of whether it was Samadhi or death a source of great uncertainty.