Maha Kumbh, the world’s largest religious event, gathers crores of devotees and saints. The role of Akharas is very important in this. Akharas are groups of saints and sages who preserve religion, faith and traditions.
The biggest attraction of Mahakumbh is the royal bath. During this time, Naga Sadhus of Akharas, who are completely away from worldly attachments, take a dip in the holy river. Their grand procession taken out with chariots, horses and elephants further enhances the grandeur of Mahakumbh.
Akharas: What are they and their importance
Akharas are not just organizations of sages and saints, but symbols of Indian culture and traditions.
- Their main objective is to promote religion, penance and spiritual education.
- Akharas show the youth the path of religious knowledge and spiritual practice.
- Their simplicity and devotion, along with inspiring the society, protects religion and culture.
13 major Akharas in Mahakumbh
13 major Akharas participate in Mahakumbh, divided into three main categories:
1. Shaiva Akhara (Worshippers of Lord Shiva)
Sadhus of Shaiva Akharas are ardent devotees of Lord Shiva and live an ascetic life.
- Mahanirvani Akhara: Absorbed in Shiva devotion.
- Avahan Akhara: Practice of yoga and meditation.
- Atal Akhara: Famous for penance and spiritual knowledge.
- Juna Akhara: The largest and ancient Akhara.
- Invocation Akhara: Center for intense meditation and penance.
- Niranjani Akhara: Following simple and peaceful sadhana.
- Anand Akhara: Major center of Shiva devotees.
- Agni Akhara: Teachings of celibacy and asceticism.
2. Vaishnav Akhara (Worshippers of Lord Vishnu)
Lord Vishnu and his incarnations are worshiped in Vaishnav Akharas.
- Nirmohi Akhara: Worshipers of Lord Rama and Krishna.
- Nirvani Akhara: Adherence to Vaishnava devotion and meditation.
- Digambar Akhara: Strong center of Vaishnav tradition.
3. Udaasin Akhara (followers of Sanatan and Sikh tradition)
Udasin Akhara is a confluence of the traditions of Guru Nanak and Sanatan Dharma.
- Udaasin Bada Akhara: A fusion of Sikhism and Sanatan traditions.
- Nirvani Udasin Akhara: Adherence to service and devotion.
Role of Akharas in Mahakumbh
1. Shahi Snan:
The biggest contribution of the Akharas in Mahakumbh is the royal bath.
- The grand procession includes Naga sadhus, chariots, horses, elephants and musical bands.
- This shows their religious and spiritual superiority.
2. Discourse and Yagya:
Sadhus of Akharas during Mahakumbh:
- Give religious sermons.
- Conduct yagya and spiritual events.
- Provides spiritual energy and inspiration to the devotees.
3. Symbol of penance and meditation:
The sadhus of the Akharas are a source of inspiration for the devotees through their rigorous penance and sadhana.
Historical importance of Akharas
The history of Akharas is hundreds of years old.
- These organizations were formed to protect and promote religion and culture.
- Their main objective is to provide spiritual guidance to the society and to connect people with religion.
