Why was Amir Shakkar's stay in the Chavadi considered both a prison and a blessing?

The experience of Amir Shakkar in the Chavadi, as narrated in Chapter 22, presents a profound paradox. Externally, it was like imprisonment; he was confined to a single, dilapidated, and uncomfortable place for nine months and was even forbidden from visiting the Masjid. However, internally, it was a period of firm companionship with Sai Baba. Because of his location, he received Baba's darshan effortlessly every morning and evening. Furthermore, on alternate nights when Baba slept in the Chavadi, they were separated by only a thin plank door and would talk calmly after other devotees left. This intimate access made his confinement a great blessing.