Definition
A 'fakir' is traditionally a Muslim (often Sufi) or Hindu religious ascetic or mendicant (beggar). They are seen as holy men or spiritual seekers. Fakirs often renounce worldly possessions and live a life of poverty and devotion. They might perform acts of self-denial or display unusual feats to demonstrate their spiritual power. Think of them as wandering monks or mystics. While the term originally held respect, it can sometimes be used in a derogatory or dismissive way to refer to someone perceived as a charlatan or fraud.