Aghori is a mysterious community of saints which has been the center of curiosity and mystery among the people for centuries. Their spiritual practices, lifestyle, and beliefs are completely different and unique from the common people. It is said that Aghori live in the crematorium and complete their spiritual practice there. In events like Maha Kumbh, after the Naga Sadhus, if anyone is discussed the most, it is the Aghori.
Aghor Panth: Mysterious branch of worship of God
Aghor cult is an esoteric and mysterious branch of worship of Lord Shiva. The traditions and worship methods of this sect are unconventional and mysterious.
- Worshipers of Lord Shiva:
- Aghoris are considered worshipers of Lord Shiva.
- This sect is propounded by Shiva and the Guru of Aghor Shastra is an incarnation of Shiva. Lord Dattatreya Are considered.
- Baba Keenaram, who was born in 1601, is considered and worshiped as a great saint of the Aghor sect.
Sadhana in the crematorium: confluence of life and death
Instead of common places of worship for Aghori Sadhana graveyard Let’s choose. They believe that both life and death are connected to the crematorium and it is from here that the real knowledge of life is obtained.
Three main methods of Aghor Sadhana:
- Cremation Sadhana:
- To meditate while living in the crematorium.
- Family members can also be included in this.
- Shiva Sadhana:
- Worshiping Lord Shiva.
- Corpse Practise:
- To meditate by placing one’s feet on the dead body.
- In this sadhana, meat and liquor are offered to the dead body as Prasad.
Aghoris believe that by practicing crematorium they get deep knowledge of soul and God.
Bizarre lifestyle and behavior of Aghoris
The life and behavior of Aghori Sadhus is completely different from that of common people.
- Typical Habits:
- The ashes of the pyre are rubbed on the body.
- Humans use skulls as utensils.
- Humans consume the remains (meat) of pyres.
- Knowledge of Tantra Vidya:
- Aghori are considered experts in Tantra Vidya.
- These sciences are learned for the good of the society.
- Freedom from hatred:
- The first condition to become an Aghori is to eliminate hatred from your mind.
- The things which the society abhors, like dead body, shroud, and crematorium, are adopted by Aghori.
Purpose and philosophy of Aghoris
The main objective of Aghor sect is the unity of soul and God.
- Sadhana to be closer to God:
- Aghori believe that their spiritual practice brings them closer to God.
- They focus on the purification of the soul, beyond material pleasures.
- Rude behavior:
- Aghori practice meditation by staying away from the society and do not like to talk to anyone.
- Their behavior can be quite rough, as they are free from worldly sentiments.
Presence of Aghoris in Mahakumbh
In big events like Maha Kumbh, Aghori Sadhus become the center of attention due to their spiritual practice and mystical lifestyle.
- After coming to Mahakumbh, they come closer to the society for some time.
- After the event is over, they again return to the crematorium.