Provide a comprehensive summary of the events involving Kashiram's encounter with thieves and Maharaj's simultaneous reaction in Shirdi.

Chapter 0 narrates a multi-faceted event where Kashiram was attacked by thieves who wanted a bundle he carried. This bundle, containing only powdered sugar for ants, was very dear to him. He fought back, killing two assailants before being struck down. Concurrently, in Shirdi, Maharaj exhibited extreme agitation, which devotees present interpreted as his spiritual intervention to protect a devotee in mortal danger. After the attack, Kashiram, refusing hospital care due to his profound faith, was brought to Shirdi where he recovered under Maharaj's grace. For his bravery, he was later honored with a sword by the Bombay government.