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Kumbh Mela’s essence is symbolised by sadhus, who represent the renunciation and pursuit of spiritual enlightenment that are central to Hinduism.
Kumbh Mela 2025: The role of sadhus in the Kumbh Mela has changed over time. (Image: Shutterstock)
Hindu ascetics known as Sadhus, who are committed to spiritual freedom, have a big influence on the Kumbh Melaa celebrated religious gathering. In the past, these Sadhus oversaw crowd management and provided hospitality while managing the event. They were members of akharas, which are monastic orders founded to uphold Hindu customs. They still have spiritual value, but their position has changed over time, with less involvement in administrative tasks.
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The festival’s essence is symbolised by sadhus, who represent the renunciation and pursuit of spiritual enlightenment that are central to Hinduism. The Kumbh Mela is scheduled to take place from January 13, 2025, to February 26, 2025.
Who are these Sadhus?
According to Hinduism, sadhus—often affectionately referred to as Babas—are saints who have given up material pleasures. In Hindu philosophy, the ultimate stage of existence is represented by ‘moksha,’ or emancipation, which is what they strive for throughout their lives. There are perhaps four to five million Sadhus in India, all of whom adhere to a strict and austere spiritual code.
Sadhus: Their Historical Management and Roles
Sadhus have historically been important in overseeing the Kumbh Mela. Akharas, or Sadhus, oversaw the celebration at Haridwar, one of the four traditional Kumbh Mela locations, before the British East India Company rule in India. In addition to handling crowd control and hospitality, these Sadhus also performed judicial and law enforcement functions. They served in capacities beyond simple spiritual leadership as dealers and fighters.
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Akharas: The Foundation of Sadhu Participation
The akharas play a crucial role in Sadhu’s participation in the Kumbh Mela. To bring Sadhu’s organisations together and preserve the Sanatan way of life, Adi Shankaracharya founded several monastic orders in the eighth century.
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Followers of similar religious beliefs and practices reside in each akhara. The fact that the followers are experts in both scripture and weapons suggests that they perform both spiritual and defensive tasks during the celebration.
The Kumbh Mela’s Spiritual Importance for Sadhus
For Sadhus, going to the Kumbh Mela is an essential part of their spiritual path rather than merely a ritual. They have a chance to interact deeply with their faith and customs throughout the event.
Sadhus are among the devotees who think that bathing in the Ganges during the festival will free one from sin and the cycle of life and death. For the Sadhus, this notion emphasises the event’s great spiritual significance.
Sadhus: Current Role and Evolution
The role of sadhus in the Kumbh Mela has changed over time. Even though they still serve as the festival’s spiritual guardians, they are no longer involved in management and administration, especially since the British colonial era.
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Their presence nevertheless continues to be a pillar of the Kumbh Mela, providing an insight into the deep asceticism and spirituality that are at the heart of Hinduism.
- Location :
Prayagraj, India
