Why were people uncertain if Sai Baba had actually died when he passed?

The uncertainty surrounding Sai Baba's death stemmed from a past incident that had occurred 32 years prior. As Chapter 44 recounts, after Baba's breath ceased on Vijayadashami, his followers were doubtful whether it was a trance (Samadhi) or actual death. This is because in the previous event, Baba had drawn his life force into the crown of his head and remained seemingly lifeless for three full days. Just as people were certain of his death and began discussing final rites, he suddenly returned to his body, driving away their anxiety. This memory caused significant doubt and hesitation among his followers when he finally did pass away, leading to a 26-hour deliberation on how to proceed.