Most ascetics live fairly simple lives, and for many of the poorer ones life can often be very difficult. Hindu culture also stresses the religious merit generated by giving to ascetics, either through direct gifts, or through supporting charitable institutions that house and feed them. Through such support ascetics can live a subsistence life, and for those who are genuinely spirtually inclined, this allows them to devote themselves to religious life. Many ascetics survive is by forming small communities of their own, often comprised of a guru and his disciples. Such small groups may travel and live together for decades, and these connections provide mutual support.
Locals claim that the ruined temple behind it was cursed to be ruined by an angry ascetic.
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