Why were people unsure if Sai Baba had actually died?

There was significant doubt among his followers as to whether Baba was truly dead or merely in a deep meditative trance known as Samadhi. This confusion was rooted in a past event from 32 years prior. As Chapter 44 recounts, Baba had once drawn his life force into the crown of his head, appearing dead for three full days before suddenly returning to his body, much to everyone's relief. Because of this precedent, when his breath ceased for the final time, people were hesitant to accept it as death, wondering if he might rise again as he had before. This led to a period of uncertainty and deliberation.