The process of initiating new Naga Sadhus has commenced at the Akharas along the banks of the Sangam as part of the preparations for Mauni Amavasya during the Maha Kumbh. Both Udasi Akharas and the seven Shaivite Akharas, including Juna, Mahanirvani, Niranjani, Atal, Agni, and Awahan, are set to welcome more than 1,800 new Naga Sanyasis into their fold. The intricate rituals began today at Juna Akhara and will culminate in the Tang Tod (breaking of ties) ceremony within 48 hours.
For the Akharas, the Kumbh Mela is not only an occasion for the holy Amrit Snan but also a crucial opportunity for expansion and spiritual renewal. The initiation of new Naga Sanyasis is a significant event, especially during the Maha Kumbh, which holds immense importance for trainee ascetics. Mahant Ramesh Giri of Juna Akhara shared that the rituals began on January 17 with a 24-hour period of penance under the Dharma Dhwaja (religious flag), during which the aspirants abstain from food and water. Following this, the candidates are led to the Ganga banks by the Akhara Kotwal to commence the initiation process.
The initiation begins with the aspirants taking 108 dips in the sacred Ganga, symbolizing purification. This is followed by a head-shaving ceremony and the Vijay Havan (victory offering). The Acharya Mahamandleshwar of the Akhara leads the Sanyas Diksha (renunciation initiation), wherein five senior gurus bestow essential items upon the aspirants. The final rituals will take place on the morning of January 19, when the aspirants will shed their loincloths and fully embrace their new identities as Naga Sanyasis.
While some may choose to remain Digambar (clothed only by the sky), others are given the option to retain clothing but participate in the Amrit Snan as Nagas.
Two key rituals define the transformation into a Naga Sadhu. First is the cutting of the braid, which symbolizes the severing of all social ties. Once this ritual is performed, the individual cannot return to worldly life. The second is Tang Tod, the final ritual signifying the breaking of all earthly attachments. Unlike other ceremonies, this is performed by a fellow Naga Sadhu under the Guru's guidance, cementing the initiate's commitment to asceticism.
Akhara Hierarchy and Responsibilities
Becoming a Naga Sadhu is essential for assuming leadership roles within the Akharas. Positions such as General Secretary, Secretary, Shrimahant, Mahant, Thanapati, Kotwal, and Pujari are reserved exclusively for Nagas. The Akhara’s internal committee thoroughly evaluates each candidate before bestowing this responsibility.
Mahant Yamuna Puri of Mahanirvani Akhara revealed that while their exact dates for initiation are undecided, the rituals will be completed before Mauni Amavasya. Similarly, Udasi Akharas are preparing for their initiation ceremonies.
The initiation of over 1,800 new Naga Sadhus during Maha Kumbh 2025 highlights the enduring significance of this ancient spiritual tradition. The newly initiated Nagas will participate in their first Amrit Snan alongside their respective Akharas on Mauni Amavasya, marking the culmination of their transformative journey.
For the Akharas, these rituals reinforce their spiritual legacy and expand their cadre of ascetics who bear critical administrative and financial responsibilities. As the Sangam witnesses this sacred event, the Maha Kumbh continues to uphold its reputation as a confluence of faith, tradition, and renewal.
