A Hindu holy man or ascetic who has renounced worldly life in pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. A wandering religious mendicant devoted to meditation and spiritual practices.
From Sanskrit साधु (sādhu) meaning 'good', 'virtuous', or 'holy person', derived from the root साध् (sādh) meaning 'to accomplish' or 'to succeed'. The word entered English through Hindi साधु (sādhu) in the 19th century as British colonials and travelers encountered these religious figures throughout India. The term is closely related to 'siddha' (accomplished one) and connects to the concept of spiritual achievement.
The word 'sadhu' literally means 'good person' but represents someone who has achieved the ultimate good by renouncing everything! These orange-robed figures became iconic symbols of Indian spirituality for Western travelers, embodying the paradox of gaining everything by giving up everything.
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