Sant Eknath was a well-known saint of Paithan in Maharashtra. The folk tale says that once some pilgrims were carrying Ganga water from Kashi to offer on the Shivalinga at Rameswaram. They had pots of Ganga water with them.
On the way they reached Paithan, where Eknath had his hermitage. They saw a donkey in the scorching sun, tormented by thirst and no longer able to walk.
Eknath asked the pilgrims for one pot of Ganga water and gave it to the donkey. The pilgrims were upset, “That water was meant for Rameswaram!”
Eknath said calmly, “Rameswar is in every creature. Giving water to one who is thirsty is also worship of Him.” It is said that the pilgrims realised their mistake and became humble.