Pakistan, July 4 -- This is the 25th article in a special series by Ally Adnan that brings to life memorable incidents from the rich and fascinating life of Hazrat Amir Khusrau, whose timeless legacy continues to inspire the world.

One hot summer day, Amir Khusrau was returning to the city from a neighboring village when he became extremely thirsty.

Parched and fatigued, he sat down on the ground.

A poor mashki (water carrier) noticed Khusrau's condition and offered him water from his mashk (leather water bag). Khusrau gratefully accepted the favour, drank the water and offered the poor man a reward. The mashki, however, refused to accept anything in return for his gesture; he had been motivated by genuine kindness rather than a desire...