Why were the devotees so uncertain about whether Baba was truly gone after he stopped breathing?

The doubt and confusion among devotees following Baba's apparent death are explained in Chapter 44 by referencing a past event. Thirty-two years prior, Baba had performed an act where he drew his life force into the crown of his head for three full days, appearing to all as if he had died. He then suddenly returned to his body, dispelling everyone's anxiety. Because of this precedent, when his breath ceased on Vijayadashami, the devotees were doubtful. They couldn't be sure if it was his final passing or another deep trance (Samadhi), which led to a 26-hour deliberation before any final rites were decided upon.