There are several types of sadhus in Sanatan Dharm. In their classification, some may become Vaishnav others may become Shakt or Shaiva. In the said classification too, some become sanyasi and others remain Grihasta or follow Vanprastha. Today we are talking about the famous yet less understood Aghoris and Naga Sadhus.
Differences between Aghoris and Naga Sadhus
The Naga Sadhus and Aghoris are two sects of Hindu ascetics who are known for their spiritual pursuits and way of life. Both groups practice penance for 12 years to reach their aspirations, but there are some differences between them.
Naga Sadhus are associated with the Akhada, a Hindu monastic order, and must pass an examination to become a monk. They must also have a Guru and follow a vegetarian or non-vegetarian diet. On the other hand, Aghoris don’t have a Guru and believe Bhagwan Shiv to be their guide. They perform their penance at crematoriums, sometimes sitting over corpses, and are believed to gain divine power during the process.
Aghoris cover their lower body with animal skin and smear cremation ashes on their body. They also wear skulls and bones as a symbol of their rise from “shava to Shiva.” Aghoris are also known for their non-vegetarian diet, which is often described as consisting of human flesh and drinking from a skull. Unlike Naga Sadhus, who come to civilization during the Kumbha festival and live in the Himalayas or in Akhadas, Aghoris live in crematoriums and do not make public appearances.
Naga Sadhus are known for preaching about the grace of God and being warriors and learned scholars of “shashtra and shaashtra” (arms and scriptures). Aghoris, on the other hand, focus on the study of black magic and meditation. In conclusion, while both Naga Sadhus and Aghoris share some similarities, there are also significant differences between them in terms of their way of life, beliefs, and practices.
Similarities and their destination
Both Aghoris and Naga Sadhus are ardent devotees of Bhagwan Shiv and practise brahmcharya (celibacy). Both renounce their families and thereby make their own ‘shradh’ (a ritual for died soul’s peace). These similarities take them to the same destination they aspire for, that is Bhagwan Shiv.
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