There was, centuries ago, a saint and poet named Tukaram, who lived in Maharashtra. He was a great devotee, and his poems are treasured to this day.

It happened once that the people where Tukaram lived came to him, and told him they were going on a pilgrimage. “We will visit many holy places,” they told him. “Please come with us.”

“You are so kind and generous to invite me,” Tukaram replied, “but I am unable to go. Just now it is not possible. But please, do something for me. Take with you this bitter gourd, and make sure it accompanies you wherever you go. Have it with you when you visit temples, and when you pray, and when you take sacred immersions in holy rivers be sure to dip it in the water. Then I will be very grateful.”

The people agreed, and went away. After visiting many holy places they returned, and presented the bitter gourd to Tukaram.

To show his gratitude, Tukaram invited them to a meal, and among the food he presented was a dish of bitter gourd. When the people began to eat, they said to their host, “Oh, Tukaram, how bitter this gourd is! Why do you serve it?”

“Bitter?” said Tukaram innocently. “But this gourd has been on pilgrimage. It has been dipped in holy water many times. And now you tell me it is bitter? Then what can be the meaning of pilgrimage?”