Prayagraj: The world of Aghoris has always been shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Their unconventional practices and distinct appearance often evoke a mix of fear and reverence among people. At the ongoing Mahakumbh, the Aghori camp in Sector 19 stands as a center of curiosity, with a large black flag bearing “Alakh Niranjan” fluttering outside.
Inside the camp, adorned in black robes with rudraksha beads around their necks, long hair, and ash smeared on their bodies, the Aghoris embody their mystical and unconventional lifestyle. To understand their practices and philosophy, Bholanath, head of the Kathmandu Aghori Ashram, and Prithvinath, Secretary of the Indian Aghor Akhada, shared insights into their world.
What Is Aghor?
“Aghor is not just a practice; it’s a way of life, a form of Tantra, and a profound spiritual discipline,” explained Bholanath. “It’s not something one can learn from books. To truly experience it, one must become an Aghori, live in an ashram for three years, and serve the guru. Only then, the guru decides whether the disciple is ready for initiation.”
Myths About Human Sacrifice
When asked about the widely held belief that Aghoris perform human sacrifices, Prithvinath clarified, “Aghoris have been wrongly portrayed. While the practice of offering blood to deities has existed, it could be as minimal as a drop. Human sacrifice is a myth propagated by misinformation and fake claims on social media.”
Shmashan Sadhana and Rituals
Aghoris perform three primary forms of sadhana: Shmashan (cremation ground), Shiva, and Shava (corpse) sadhana. “Shava sadhana involves meditating on a corpse, symbolizing the transient nature of life and death,” explained Prithvinath. “Sometimes, offerings like meat and liquor are made as part of the ritual, but these practices are esoteric and inaccessible to outsiders.”
Do Aghoris Consume Flesh from Burning Pyres?
Responding to one of the most debated questions, Prithvinath said, “While some believe Aghoris consume flesh from burning pyres during their practices, it is not a universal truth. These rituals are part of a tantric process aimed at transcending worldly attachments and fears. The ultimate goal is to perceive life and death as one and the same.”
Black Attire and Ash-Smeared Bodies
Aghoris wear black and smear their bodies with ash as a symbol of purity and acceptance of mortality. “Our way of life challenges societal norms and emphasizes detachment from material and emotional bonds. We are not here to frighten people but to attain spiritual liberation,” said Bholanath.
Use of Human Skulls (Khappar)
Human skulls, or khappars, are often associated with Aghoris. “Not all Aghoris use skulls. Those who do, acquire them from cremation grounds. These skulls are symbolic tools in our rituals, representing the impermanence of life,” shared Prithvinath.
Final Rites for Aghoris
Aghoris have their own rituals for death. “Prominent gurus are given samadhi, while others are cremated like common people,” revealed Bholanath.
How to Become an Aghori
The journey to becoming an Aghori involves complete surrender to a guru. Initiations are conducted in stages: Hirith Diksha, Shirith Diksha, and Rambhat Diksha. “During the final initiation, the disciple must surrender their life to the guru. If the guru demands their life, they must comply without hesitation,” explained Bholanath.
Aghori Philosophy: Bridging Life and Death
Aghoris aim to dissolve the duality of life and death, believing that everything is Shiva. Their practices, though misunderstood, represent the ultimate quest for spiritual purity and detachment.
As the Aghori camp at Mahakumbh continues to attract curious visitors, it offers a glimpse into an enigmatic tradition that seeks to transcend societal norms and embrace the essence of existence.