Brahmacharis

Brahmacharis are practitioners of Brahmacharya, a vow of celibacy and self-discipline in Hinduism. The term derives from Sanskrit brahma (Brahman, the ultimate reality) and charya (conduct or way of living). Traditionally, a Brahmachari is a male student who adopts celibacy during the Brahmacharya stage of life, living in a gurukula or sacred ashram under a guru to study the Vedas, scriptures, and philosophy, and to cultivate discipline, humility, and service.

In the classical four-ashrama framework, Brahmacharya is the first stage, followed by Grihastha (householder), Vanaprastha (retired), and Sannyasa (renunciation). The Brahmachari’s duties include study, vows of celibacy, truthfulness, self-control, service to the guru, and a life of simple living. The goal is spiritual growth and preparation for later stages of life.

In modern usage, the term Brahmachari can refer to a celibate monk in Hindu monastic settings or to a lay person who adopts a vow of celibacy. Practices and expectations vary among traditions and communities. The female equivalent is commonly brahmacharini or brahmacharinī. The concept of Brahmacharya is also related to ethical guidelines within Hindu traditions, and it is sometimes discussed alongside other ascetic vows in Jainism and related paths.

See also: Brahmacharya, Gurukula, Ashrama, Sannyasa, Monasticism.