Why were people unsure if Baba was truly gone or just in a deep trance when his breath stopped?

The doubt surrounding Sai Baba's passing, as described in Chapter 44, stemmed from a remarkable past event. Decades earlier, Baba had once drawn his life force into the crown of his head for three full days, appearing to all as if he had died. After three days passed and discussions of final rites began, he suddenly returned to his body, dispelling everyone's anxiety. Because of this precedent, when his breath finally ceased for the last time, his devotees were left in a state of doubt. They deliberated for twenty-six hours, uncertain whether it was a final departure or another temporary Samadhi trance.