NCERT · Class 10 · Hindi · Kshitij Prose: Balgobin BhagatWhy was Balgobin Bhagat called a 'Sadhu' (saint) despite being a householder? Explain.

Balgobin Bhagat was a householder (Grihastha) who lived with his son and daughter-in-law, possessed a small house, and engaged in farming. However, his conduct, thoughts, and lifestyle were entirely like those of a true saint (Sadhu). He did not define sainthood by wearing saffron robes or abandoning worldly life. Instead, his sainthood lay in his pure character and high ideals. He never lied, was always straightforward in his dealings, and never kept or coveted anyone else's property without permission. He considered everything he produced in his fields as belonging to his 'Saheb' (Kabir) and offered it to the Kabir monastery first, accepting only the returned portion as prasad. He had conquered anger, greed, and attachment. Thus, his pure conduct, selflessness, and devotion proved that sainthood is a state of mind and behavior, not just an outward appearance.