sadhak

Sadhak is a term used in Indian spiritual and religious discourse to denote a seeker or practitioner of spiritual disciplines who undertakes sadhana with the aim of self-realization or spiritual attainment. The word derives from the Sanskrit root sadha- meaning to accomplish or attain, combined with a suffix forming a noun for one who achieves through effort.

In traditional contexts, a sadhak is someone who follows a specific path of practice under guidance, often within the guru–shishya tradition. Practices may include meditation, breath control, mantra repetition, ethical observance, study of scriptures, and other disciplines associated with yoga, bhakti, or other sadhana systems. A sadhak is not necessarily a renunciant; sadhaks may be householders who undertake disciplined practice while fulfilling daily duties.

The term is commonly contrasted with related terms such as sadhu (a renunciant or holy person) and bhakta (a devotee). While a sadhu emphasizes renunciation and a bhakta emphasizes devotion, a sadhak emphasizes the practice itself as a route toward realization or spiritual progress.

In modern usage, sadhak is used across various Indian spiritual traditions to describe an aspirant or practitioner who adheres to a structured practice program. The concept appears in classical Sanskrit literature and continues in contemporary spiritual writings and organizations that present layered pathways of discipline and inner cultivation.