What role did the giving of Dakshina play in the relationship between Kashiram and Sai Baba?

The practice of giving Dakshina was a central element in Kashiram's spiritual development under Sai Baba. Initially, Kashiram was so eager for Maharaj to accept his money that he would cry if Dakshina wasn't taken. As Chapter 31 explains, this attachment fostered pride, an obstacle to his spiritual path. To counteract this, Maharaj initiated a 'Leela' or divine play. He began demanding relentless Dakshina, forcing Kashiram to borrow money until his resources were exhausted. According to Chapter 32, this whole ordeal was designed to make Kashiram realize he did not have the power to give, thereby removing his pride. Once the lesson was learned, his financial condition improved.