Sadhu Facts for Kids

A sadhu in Haridwar, India.

A sadhu in Kathmandu, Nepal.

In Hinduism, a sadhu is a special kind of holy person. They are often called an ascetic, which means they choose to live a very simple life. They give up many normal comforts and pleasures. Sadhus also practice yoga, so they are sometimes called yogis.

Sadhus have decided not to focus on three common goals in Hindu life. These goals are kama (enjoying life's pleasures), artha (working for success or money), and dharma (doing your duty in society). Instead, a sadhu's main goal is to reach moksha. This means finding true freedom and peace, and becoming free from the cycle of birth and death. They try to achieve this through deep meditation and thinking about God. Many sadhus wear special ochre-colored clothes. This color is a symbol that they have given up many worldly things.

What Sadhus Do
- Simple Living
Types of Sadhus
- Shaiva Sadhus
- Vaishnava Sadhus
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What Sadhus Do

Sadhus live a life dedicated to spiritual growth. They often spend their days in meditation, prayer, and studying holy texts. Many sadhus travel a lot, moving from one holy place to another. They do not usually have a permanent home. This traveling helps them stay focused on their spiritual path.

Simple Living

Sadhus live very simply. They do not own many things. They often rely on donations from other people for their food and basic needs. This way of life helps them avoid being attached to material possessions. It allows them to focus only on their spiritual journey.

Types of Sadhus

There are many different groups of sadhus. Each group might follow a specific path or worship a particular god.

Shaiva Sadhus

Some sadhus are followers of the god Shiva. These are called Shaiva sadhus. They might wear their hair in long dreadlocks. They also sometimes put ash on their bodies. This ash is a symbol of detachment from the world.

Vaishnava Sadhus

Other sadhus are followers of the god Vishnu. These are known as Vaishnava sadhus. They often wear special marks on their foreheads. These marks show their devotion to Vishnu. Both Shaiva and Vaishnava sadhus are dedicated to their spiritual goals.