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

The uncertainty surrounding Sai Baba's death stemmed from a previous, extraordinary event. Chapter 44 explains that when Baba's breath ceased, his followers became doubtful whether it was a deep trance (samadhi) or actual death. This doubt was rooted in an incident from 32 years prior, when Baba had drawn his life force into the crown of his head and appeared dead for three full days. Just as people were preparing for final rites, he suddenly returned to his body. Because of this precedent, when he finally passed, his followers naturally questioned the finality of the event, remembering his demonstrated power over life and death.