How did Sapatnekar finally manage to get close to Baba and receive his grace?

After being repeatedly pushed away by Sai Baba, Sapatnekar reached a point of extreme distress. However, instead of giving up, he made a firm internal resolution to stay in Shirdi with a steady mind until he received Baba's grace. Chapter 48 recounts that he saw an opportunity when Baba was alone on his cushion. Overcoming his hesitation, Sapatnekar approached, held Baba's feet with a choked heart, and placed his head upon them. This act of surrender and perseverance bore fruit. Baba responded by placing his hand on Sapatnekar, a gesture of acceptance and blessing. Sapatnekar then began massaging Baba's feet, finally breaking through the barrier of rejection and receiving the grace he had so desperately sought.