Saruhan was born in 1944 in the Menemen district of Izmir. He worked as an apprentice with a master nicknamed Topgül Mustafa from primary school until he was enlisted in the army, and he opened his own shop after returning from his military service. Until 2023, Saruhan produced and repaired, among others, high boots (special boots worn by efes) and custom-made shoes. Among the masters he trained are Ali Sembol, Özcan Sever, Ali Can, Muzaffer and Ali Aydın.