His followers, estimated to number six million, included top Indian politicians, business tycoons and Bollywood stars. Sai Baba, with distinctive frizzy hair and always clad in his trademark saffron robes, ran schools and hospitals through trusts in numerous countries.

Questions are likely to arise over the management of his substantial assets. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Sai Baba's death was "an irreparable loss" to all. Legions of followers, including top judges and bureaucrats, were expected to take part in his last rites, media said.