What was the nature of the relationship between Mhalasapati and Sai Baba?

Mhalasapati and Sai Baba shared an exceptionally close and intimate relationship. According to Chapter 0, on the nights that Maharaj slept in the Masjid, Mhalasapati would stay with him, sitting by his side until dawn. During these nights, they engaged in very affectionate conversations. This routine of Mhalasapati sitting in the Masjid all night, every other day, continued without fail until he passed away. The text describes Mhalasapati as highly advanced and completely selfless, serving as a source of guidance and a 'place of rest' for Maharaj's devotees, especially after Maharaj's own passing. Their bond was a cornerstone of the early Shirdi community.