INO Glossary: Sadhu

A sadhu (m.) or sadhvini (f.) is a spiritual seeker who has renounced the world and all attachments. This renounced ascetic or yogi gives up the three householder aims of life—kama (pleasure), artha (wealth), and dharma (duty)— and dedicates the remainder of their life to achieving the fourth and final goal of moksha (liberation). In India, they typically live in ashrams, caves, forests, and temples, or lead a nomadic life as wanderers.