Why did Sai Baba cause financial hardship for his devoted follower Kashiram? It seems counterintuitive.

The story of Kashiram's financial difficulties is a profound spiritual lesson. As Chapter 0 explains, Kashiram was initially very wealthy and eager for Maharaj to accept Dakshina from him. When Maharaj wouldn't take it, Kashiram would feel hurt. This feeling, however, stemmed from a subtle pride that 'I have the power to give.' The text states that such pride is an obstacle to spiritual progress. Therefore, Maharaj's actions were not to cause harm but to remove this very obstacle. By constantly demanding Dakshina until Kashiram was financially depleted, Maharaj forced him to confront the reality that he did not have the ultimate power to give. Once this realization dawned on Kashiram and his pride was removed, his financial condition was restored, demonstrating that this was a divine leela for his spiritual benefit.