Source :NEWS18 NEWS
Last Updated:January 17, 2025, 15:53 IST
Maha Kumbh 2025: Both Naga Sadhus and Aghori Sadhus are devoted worshippers of Lord Shiva, undergoing rigorous penance for about 12 years to attain their spiritual goals. But their methods of worship and penance differ significantly
Maha Kumbh 2025: One of the main attractions of the festival are the enigmatic Naga Sadhus and Aghori Sadhus. (Shutterstock)
The Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, has commenced in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, drawing a vast number of devotees from across the globe. In this confluence of faith, sadhus and saints join the general public to partake in the holy bath and Amrit Snan.
One of the main attractions of the Maha Kumbh are the enigmatic Naga Sadhus and Aghori Sadhus. Their mysterious lifestyle intrigues everyone, and many are curious about the differences between these two ascetic groups. Here are some key insights shared by Pandit Ramakant Mishra.
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Both Naga Sadhus and Aghori Sadhus are devoted worshippers of Lord Shiva, undergoing rigorous penance for about 12 years to attain their spiritual goals. While both revere Shiva, their methods of worship and penance differ significantly.
Naga Sadhus’ Worship Practices
Naga Sadhus are ardent followers of the Shaivite tradition, worshipping Lord Shiva by offering belpatra, ash, and water on the Shivling. Fire and ash play a central role in their rituals. They seek to connect with Lord Shiva through meditation and yoga, immersing themselves in deep devotion.
Aghori Sadhus’ Worship Practices
Aghori Sadhus, on the other hand, follow a unique and intense path of devotion. Their practices include three types of sadhana: Shiva Sadhana, Shav Sadhana, and Shamshan Sadhana. In Shav Sadhana, meat and liquor are offered to Lord Shiva, and during Shiva Sadhana, they perform rituals while standing on one leg. Shamshan Sadhana involves performing havan ceremonies. Aghoris consider Lord Dattatreya their guru and believe Shiva is the path to salvation.
Life of Naga Sadhus
Adi Shankaracharya is regarded as the guru of the Naga tradition. Naga Sadhus live a life of celibacy and remain naked as a symbol of renunciation. Their role includes protecting humans and religion. The process of becoming a Naga Sadhu spans 12 years, with the first six years being particularly significant. Aspirants are taught celibacy, undergo the Yagyopaveet Sanskar, and perform Pind Daan for both their family and themselves.
Life of Aghori Sadhus
While Aghoris also worship Shiva, they equally venerate Maa Kali and follow the Kapalika tradition. Aghoris practise tantra and consume meat and alcohol as part of their rituals. They cover their bodies in ash and often carry Rudraksha garlands and human skulls. Unlike Naga Sadhus, Aghoris prefer solitude and are typically seen in public only during events like the Maha Kumbh. They usually reside in crematoriums.
Diet of Naga and Aghori Sadhus
Naga Sadhus eat only once a day, and their food is obtained through asking for alms. They follow a strict rule of asking for alms from only seven houses per day; if they fail to get food, they remain hungry. Aghori Sadhus, in contrast, consume meat. Many Aghoris wear black clothing, while others remain naked, in keeping with their ascetic practices.
SOURCE : NEWS 18
