Mahakumbh 2025: Know SHOCKING funeral practice done with bodies of Aghori, Naga Sadhu after death

The grand Mahakumbh 2025, which takes place once every 12 years, is currently underway in Prayagraj, drawing millions of devotees and seekers from across the globe. This sacred event, known as the largest religious gathering in the world, is more than just a celebration; it is a spiritual journey where ancient traditions and ascetic practices come alive. Among the most fascinating sights at the Mahakumbh are the mysterious Aghoris and the Naga Sadhus, who have become a topic of intrigue for pilgrims and social media alike. Videos of these ascetics performing their age-old rituals are flooding the internet, sparking curiosity and wonder.

“अघोरं च मनोहारि शिवतत्त्वं सनातनम्।”

(The essence of Aghor is captivating and eternal, embodying the truth of Shiva.)

In English: Aghor is not harsh or frightening but represents simplicity, acceptance, and the eternal truth of Lord Shiva. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Aghoris, their traditions, and the mystique surrounding them.

The Origin of the Aghoris: Ancient Ascetics of Shiva

The Aghoris trace their roots back to ancient India and are often considered the successors of the Kapalikas or “skull bearers.” According to Romanian historian Mircea Eliade in his 1958 book Yoga: Immortality and Freedom, the Aghoris are deeply connected to Shaiva traditions and have preserved practices that date back thousands of years.

It is said that Baba Kinaram, born in Chandauli, Uttar Pradesh, is the founder of the Shaiva Aghori sect. Regarded as an incarnation of Lord Shiva, Baba Kinaram is revered as a spiritual leader who brought Aghori practices to prominence.

Aghoris Through the Eyes of History

The term "Aghor" means "that which is simple, not harsh or frightening." However, the Aghoris are often misunderstood due to their unconventional practices. In the 7th century, during Emperor Harshvardhan's reign, the Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang wrote about naked ascetics living in ash, wearing bone garlands. While he didn’t refer to them as Aghoris, these descriptions closely resemble their practices today.

To become an Aghori, one must embrace simplicity, renounce hatred, and transcend societal norms. They believe in seeing divinity in everything, even what others consider impure or forbidden.

Aghori Rituals: A Unique Perspective on Death

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Aghori tradition is how they deal with death. Unlike other Hindu sects that cremate their dead, the body of an Aghori ascetic is treated differently. Upon death, the Aghori’s body is placed upside down, with the head downwards and feet upwards. It is left in this position for 40 days, allowing nature to take its course.

After this period, the body is retrieved, and half of it is immersed in the sacred Ganges, while the head is preserved for spiritual practices. This ritual symbolizes detachment from the physical body and acceptance of the eternal cycle of life and death.

Lord Dattatreya: The Divine Master of Aghoris

Aghoris worship Lord Dattatreya as their guiding deity. Dattatreya is believed to be an incarnation of the holy trinity—Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Known as the god of Tantra and Mantra, he embodies wisdom, power, and asceticism. Dattatreya is often depicted in Hindu art and scriptures as a serene, enlightened figure, inspiring Aghoris in their tantric practices.

A World of Mysticism at Mahakumbh 2025

This year’s Mahakumbh is not just a congregation of faith but also a window into India’s mystical traditions. From Aghoris meditating on cremation grounds to Naga Sadhus performing rituals covered in ash, the event is a celebration of spirituality, diversity, and devotion. Whether through their ancient wisdom or unconventional practices, the Aghoris remind us that faith often lies beyond the ordinary, challenging us to look at life from a new perspective.

The Mahakumbh is truly a testament to the richness of India’s spiritual heritage, where the divine meets the earthly in the most extraordinary ways.