There are two types of saints in Hinduism.
One group undertakes religious austerities, or Tapas, and
stays away from the world for the sake of their own salvation.
The other group form sects, sets up monasteries or ashrams
and undertakes tasks for the welfare of the common people.
The first group usually stays away from human population.
Finds shelter in caves, forests and mountains. They rarely interact with
people. They might or might not take disciples.
The second group sets up ashrams, educational institutions,
hospitals, factories etc. A few of such saints live among people but they have
no real attachment to the worldly happenings. They do their work without
thinking of results.