NEPAL, SADHUS

NEPAL, SADHUS

In the Hindu religion, a holy person or ascetic who has renounced the materialistic life is called a Sādhu (from Sanskrit sādhu, meaning “good man” or “holy man”). While most Sādhus are yogīs, not all yogīs are Sādhus. The primary focus of a Sādhu is to attain mokṣa (liberation), which is the fourth and final stage of life (aśrama), through meditation and contemplation of Brahman.

Sādhus are often recognizable by their saffron-colored clothing, which symbolizes their renunciation (sannyāsa) of worldly attachments. They can be found living in Hindu temples, caves, and forests throughout India and Nepal. The common term used to refer to a Sādhu is “baba,” which can also mean father, grandfather, or uncle in many Indian languages. To show greater respect, the suffix -ji may be added after baba when addressing a Sādhu.