The Maha Kumbh Mela is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, and it begins with the royal bath of the Naga Sadhus, who are considered to be some of the most revered ascetics. While much attention is given to the male Naga Sadhus, the female Naga Sadhus play an equally important role. However, their life and practices are often more challenging and unique compared to their male counterparts.
Life of a Female Naga Sadhu: More Than Just Celibacy
Female Naga Sadhus lead a life dedicated to intense penance and spiritual meditation. In contrast to the male Naga Sadhus, who have had more opportunities to be recognized, female Naga Sadhus had to face greater societal and spiritual barriers.
The life of a female Naga Sadhu is extremely rigorous. From a very young age, they are expected to follow celibacy and take part in a series of religious practices. The age of six is considered the starting point of their commitment to celibacy. Only after enduring tough tests and successfully living a life of penance and abstinence, can a woman officially become a Naga Sadhu.
The Role of Dashnam Sannyasini Akhara and the Rise of Female Naga Sadhus
Historically, only male Naga Sadhus were part of the Akharas, the religious orders of ascetics. However, in India, the Dashnam Sannyasini Akhara allows women to join as Naga Sadhus. Before the formation of a separate Akhara for female Sadhus, the Mai Bada camp within Juna Akhara was the only place where women could practice their spiritual life.
The formal recognition of female Naga Sadhus began in 2013 with the creation of Dashnam Sannyasini Akhara, which provided an official structure for women to follow the path of asceticism. Female Naga Sadhus are now able to fully embrace this sacred journey through the support of this Akhara, while keeping their vows of celibacy, meditation, and penance.
Ganti: The Sacred Attire of Female Naga Sadhus
The attire of female Naga Sadhus is a significant symbol of their spiritual journey. Traditionally, they wear the Ganti, a simple saffron-colored piece of cloth, which is seen as a symbol of purity, dedication, and renunciation. Interestingly, there are also rare instances where female Naga Sadhus do not wear the Ganti and choose to remain completely nude. These ascetics are known to lead even more secluded lives, remaining hidden from public view and focusing solely on their spiritual pursuits.
A Life of Seclusion and Devotion
Female Naga Sadhus are known to remain secluded from worldly affairs. Their life is marked by rigorous religious observances, such as bathing in sacred rivers, living in caves, following strict dietary rules, and meditating in solitude. They only make their appearance on special occasions such as the Kumbh Mela, where they gather with other ascetics to share their spiritual journey.
Female Naga Sadhus have a unique and important place in India’s religious and spiritual practices. Their commitment to celibacy, meditation, and penance reflects an extraordinary level of discipline and dedication. Despite the challenges they face, they continue to inspire many with their perseverance and devotion to spiritual growth. Their life may be hidden from the world, but their contributions to the Maha Kumbh and the larger spiritual community cannot be overlooked.
