Sanskrit Term
The term “Bandhu” comes from Sanskrit and has a number of meanings that are relevant for our efforts. It means kin, kindred, relation, connection, association, and also friend. Its underlying sense is associated with connection or bond (Source: https://sanskritdictionary.com/?iencoding=o1057&lang=sans&q=Bandhu, Accessed 26 September 2026).
Saha Use
On our path to empathy - the “em-path” - we seek to develop greater empathy for all beings. One of the ways that this happens is that we have a particular being or species that assists us on this journey. We focus on our Bandhu, considering life from their perspective.
Bandhu Example
My Bandhu is the pig. I did not pick this being - it chose me. Honestly, if I was going to pick a species myself, I would have wanted one like the wombat - I had an experience with this in Australia (a topic for another time). The point is not that we “pick” a species out of interest, but that we search for connection. I had a connection with a pig when I was eight, as I watched him suffer and die. This experience has been with me ever since. So, I didn’t pick him - he picked me.
Developing Empathy
The thing about my Bandhu is that he is one of the most exploited species on our planet. As I try to develop further empathy for him, it can feel overwhelming (we have to do this practice as we are able, giving ourselves time to recover). I can imagine this specific pig/hog, I can imagine pigs in farrowing crates, I can imagine piglets having their tails and teeth altered, etc. There is a great deal upon which I can develop empathy and not all negative. For example, a mother pig “sings” to her offspring.
Our Bandhu is our opportunity to get outside of ourselves and into the life of another. It is a chance for empathy, compassion and enlightenment.
Working Definition
A Bandhu is a being or species with whom we seek connection, developing empathy and compassion by considering life from their perspective.
Who is your Bandhu?
सर्वे भवन्तु सुखिनः।
May all be happy!
Tūruapō
26 September 2026