swami

A swami is a Hindu ascetic or religious teacher, often a senior member of a religious order. The term is derived from the Sanskrit word svami, meaning "master".12

These individuals are a type of sadhu, which is a general term for a religious ascetic or holy person in India. Sadhus may live in monasteries or wander alone or in groups, often taking vows of poverty and celibacy. They typically rely on charity for sustenance and may wear ochre or white robes, with some going naked. Their appearance can vary, with some shaving their heads and others letting their hair grow long and matted. They usually carry minimal possessions, such as a staff, water pot, prayer beads, and an extra cloth.2

Asceticism, the practice of denying physical or psychological desires for spiritual goals, is found in many religions, including Hinduism. Some swamis are associated with specific orders like the Ramakrishna Mission. The Swami-Narayani sect, for example, was founded by Swami Narayana and emphasizes traditional Hindu law.324