Old Sadhu

Old Sadhu, originally uploaded by BoazR.

A Sadhu (Saa-dhu) - is a Hindu ascetic or a monk The Sadhu tradition has a long history. It consists of renouncing worldly ties in pursuit of higher values of life. Ideally a Sadhu lives in the society but is detached from its pleasures and pains.

Sadhus typically survive on bhiksha (alms) provided by families, and on natural resources, and they spend most of their time in meditation. A large number of Sadhus assemble for holy festivals such as the Kumbha-Mela.