Akhadas at Kumbh: Guardians of Sanatan Dharma

The Mahakumbh at Prayagraj, a cosmic spectacle of faith, began last week, with a surge of millions of devotees taking a sacred dip at Triveni, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. Amidst this ocean of spirituality, the Akhadas emerge in their full grandeur, embodying the rich heritage and enduring spirit of Sanatan Dharma.
What are Akhadas?
The term “Akhada” (or Akhara) originally referred to a wrestling arena or gymnasium but has since evolved to signify monastic orders dedicated to rigorous spiritual and physical discipline. Their roots trace back to the ascetic Parivrajakas and Jogis of ancient India, adapting and growing through eras of religious and political upheaval. During medieval times, when foreign invasions threatened India’s spiritual fabric, the Akhadas became pivotal in preserving Sanatan Dharma.
Adi Shankaracharya is credited with formalizing the Akhadas in the 8th century. His vision united ascetics and scholars under a structured framework to defend and propagate Sanatan Dharma through both spiritual wisdom and martial strength.

 

The Mahakumbh at Prayagraj, a cosmic spectacle of faith, began with an awe-inspiring surge of close to 15 million devotees taking a holy dip on the very first day in the Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. As the spiritual fervour unfolded, the Akhadas emerged in their full grandeur, adding to the vibrant energy of this grand event.
Origins and Historical Context
The term Akhada (or Akhara) initially referred to a "wrestling arena" or "gymnasium" but evolved over time to signify monastic orders committed to rigorous spiritual and physical discipline. Their origins trace back to the ascetic Parivrajakas and Yogis of ancient India, evolving further during periods of religious and political upheaval, particularly in medieval times when foreign invasions threatened the spiritual fabric of the subcontinent.
Adi Shankaracharya is credited with formally organizing the Akhadas in the 8th century. His vision was to unite ascetics and scholars under a structured framework, empowering them to defend and propagate Sanatan Dharma through both spiritual and physical means.
The Role of Akhadas in Kumbh Mela
The Kumbh Mela serves as a grand confluence for spiritual renewal and affirmation of Sanatan Dharma. It is here that the Akhadas take center stage, showcasing their spiritual might and discipline through rituals, processions, and communal bathing.
There are 13 prominent Akhadas, broadly categorized as follows:
1.Shaiva Akhadas: Devotees of Lord Shiva, including the visually striking Naga Sanyasins.
2.Vaishnava Akhadas: Followers of Lord Vishnu, emphasizing devotion and spiritual scholarship.
3.Udasin and Nirmal Akhadas: Orders with a more universalist and inclusive approach.
The Naga Sanyasins: Embodiment of Detachment and Power
Among the Shaiva Akhadas, the Naga Sanyasins stand out as the most striking. Renouncing all worldly attachments, their nakedness symbolizes their detachment, while their ash-smeared bodies signify the impermanence of material existence and spiritual purity. Historically, these warrior-ascetics protected temples and pilgrimage routes, wielding martial skills as a means of safeguarding dharma. Today, their participation in the Kumbh Mela continues to evoke their historical role as spiritual warriors.
Historically, Naga Sanyasins were also warriors, trained in martial arts and armed combat to protect temples and pilgrimage routes. Today, their role is largely spiritual, yet their participation in Kumbh Mela continues to echo their martial past.
Dashnami Akhadas: Custodians of Dharma
The Dashnami Akhadas, established by Adi Shankaracharya, hold a prominent position among the monastic orders. Named after the ten (dash) lineages (nami), they embody a dual focus:
1.Shaastradhari Akhadas: Dedicated to spiritual and scriptural learning.
2.Astradhari Akhadas: Rooted in martial traditions, historically defending dharma through physical combat.
The ten Dashnami lineages—Giri, Puri, Bharati, Saraswati, Tirtha, Aranya, Vana, Parvata, Ashrama, and Sagara—continue to uphold their spiritual and martial heritage, reflecting the comprehensive vision of Shankaracharya.
Overlaps, Similarities, and Differences
Central to the framework that define and design Akhadas are, of course, the Dashnami Akhadas, established by the revered Adi Shankaracharya. These orders are rooted in the ten Dashnami lineages and embody the philosophical unity of Shaiva and Shakta traditions. The Dashnami Akhadas are further distinguished by their dual roles: the Shaastradhari Akhadas, which emphasize scholarly pursuits and scriptural mastery, and the Astradhari Akhadas, which focus on martial discipline and the protection of dharma through physical valour. Historically, the Astradhari Akhadas provided armed protection to temples and pilgrims, showcasing a dynamic interplay between spiritual guidance and pragmatic defense.
In contrast, other Akhadas such as the Vaishnava Akhadas—including the Nirvani, Nirmohi, and Digambar Akhadas—and the Udasin Akhadas, follow distinct theological traditions. While Vaishnava Akhadas align with devotion to Vishnu, often emphasizing universalist philosophies, their practices and rituals diverge significantly from the Shaiva lineage of the Dashnami tradition. This diversity highlights the multifaceted nature of Sanatan Dharma, where varied paths converge toward a shared spiritual goal.
Despite their differences, a fluidity of roles often bridges the Shaastradhari and Astradhari within the Dashnami Akhadas. While the former are primarily scholars and custodians of Sanatan Dharma’s intellectual heritage, they may engage in rituals that echo their warrior origins. Conversely, the Astradharis, though martial in focus, also participate in spiritual teachings and ceremonies. This overlap underscores their unified commitment to upholding dharma, blending the contemplative and combative aspects of their tradition.
Rituals and Processions
The Akhadas’ participation in the Kumbh Mela is marked by the Shahi Snan (royal bath), a pivotal ritual that symbolizes spiritual cleansing and renewal. On designated auspicious days, each Akhada proceeds to the sacred river in elaborate processions, called Peshwai, accompanied by chants, music, and the blowing of conch shells. Of these the one by the Naga Sanyasins, who lead these processions with a fierce and unyielding energy, are the most spectacular, embodying the spiritual conquest of inner and outer chaos.
The bathing order of the Akhadas reflects their hierarchical structure and is a matter of great pride. Given the significance and prestige of the bathing order, disputes over precedence were not uncommon in the past underscoring the deep historical and spiritual significance each Akhada attaches to its role. These disputes seem to have settled and no longer surface but the pride that Akhadas take in the order of precedence can be visibly noticed. 
Evolution and Contemporary Relevance
While deeply rooted in ancient traditions, the Akhadas have adapted to modern contexts. Beyond their spiritual role, they engage in social service, education, and the promotion of traditional knowledge. Their vibrant presence at the Kumbh Mela serves as a reminder of Sanatan Dharma’s living traditions, blending asceticism, spirituality, and cultural heritage.
Comparisons with Other Faith Traditions
Comparable institutions exist in other faiths, such as Christian monastic orders like the Benedictines, Franciscans, and Jesuits, which emphasize spiritual discipline, scholarship, and, at times, the defense of their faith. Similarly, Sufi orders in Islam blend spiritual devotion with social service and have historically played a role in spreading and protecting their traditions. However, the unique synthesis of asceticism, martial discipline, and public ritual found in the Akhadas is unparalleled in its scope and symbolism.
Inclusion of the Transgender Akhada
In recent years, the establishment of a transgender Akhada, known as the Kinnar Akhada, marks a significant evolution in the tradition. Recognized and welcomed at the Kumbh Mela, the Kinnar Akhada represents the inclusivity and dynamism of Sanatan Dharma, embracing those who have often been marginalized in society. Their participation underscores the spiritual equality of all beings, affirming the timeless message of universal acceptance inherent in the Dharma.
Reflections on the Akhadas’ Role
The Akhadas symbolize the enduring strength and adaptability of Sanatan Dharma. Their rituals, processions, and communal activities at the Kumbh Mela are not mere spectacles; they are profound expressions of faith, discipline, and resilience. In a world rapidly transforming under the forces of modernity, the Akhadas stand as bastions of an unbroken spiritual lineage, offering lessons in unity, dedication, and the perpetual quest for inner purity.
The Akhadas' continued relevance, both as spiritual institutions and cultural icons, reaffirms the timeless essence of Sanatan Dharma. Their role in the Kumbh Mela—a confluence of the sacred and the sublime—is a testament to India’s spiritual richness and its capacity to sustain and evolve ancient traditions in harmony with contemporary realities.
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The Akhadas, deeply rooted in the Sanatan Dharma tradition, play a central role in the Kumbh Mela, particularly at Prayagraj. Here's a structured note on their origins, significance, and tradition of participating in this grand event:
Origins and Historical Context
The word Akhada (also spelled Akhara) means "wrestling arena" or "gymnasium." Over time, it evolved to signify a monastic order, particularly of ascetics who embraced rigorous physical and spiritual discipline. These orders trace their origins to the Parivrajakas and Yogis of ancient India, evolving as warrior-ascetics to protect dharma during periods of religious and political turmoil, particularly during the medieval period when the subcontinent faced invasions.
Adi Shankaracharya is credited with organizing the first formal Akhadas around the 8th century to unite ascetics and scholars under a common banner for spiritual and, when needed, physical defense.
The Role of Akhadas in Kumbh Mela
The Kumbh Mela serves as a confluence for spiritual exchange and reaffirmation of Sanatan Dharma. It is during this event that the Akhadas take center stage, their processions and rituals showcasing their spiritual prowess, discipline, and traditions. There are 13 prominent Akhadas, broadly classified into three categories:
1.Shaiva Akhadas (followers of Lord Shiva, including the Naga Sanyasins)
2.Vaishnava Akhadas (followers of Lord Vishnu)
3.Udasin and Nirmal Akhadas (with a more inclusive, universalist approach)
The Naga Sanyasins: A Unique Spectacle
The Naga Sanyasins are the most visually striking sect of the Shaiva Akhadas. They are known for their austerity, renunciation of worldly life, and symbolic nakedness, which represents their detachment from material concerns. Their bodies are often smeared with ash, signifying mortality and spiritual purity.
Rituals and Processions at Kumbh
The Akhadas participate in a series of rituals at the Kumbh, the most significant being the Shahi Snan (royal bath). On auspicious days, each Akhada processes to the sacred river in a grand display of pageantry, accompanied by chants, music, and the blowing of conch shells. The Naga Sanyasins lead these processions, their dynamic energy symbolizing spiritual conquest and purification.
The hierarchy within each Akhada dictates the order of the bathing rituals, with disputes sometimes arising over precedence—a reflection of the deep pride and tradition within each order.
Evolution and Contemporary Relevance
Despite their ancient roots, the Akhadas have adapted to modern times, engaging in social service, education, and spreading spiritual teachings. However, their participation in the Kumbh Mela remains a powerful symbol of Sanatan Dharma's living traditions.
This vibrant confluence of asceticism, spirituality, and cultural heritage at Kumbh, particularly through the Akhadas, encapsulates the diversity and depth of India’s spiritual landscape. Would you like further details on specific Akhadas or rituals?
Dashnami Akhadas: Origins and Purpose
The Dashnami Akhadas are monastic orders established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century to unify and safeguard Sanatan Dharma. The term "Dashnami" refers to the ten (dash) monastic lineages (nami) that Shankaracharya founded, each associated with a particular name reflecting their spiritual focus. These lineages are:

The Dashnami Akhadas were created to revive Vedic traditions, systematize ascetic practices, and defend dharma from external threats. They embody both spiritual learning (Shaastradhari, meaning "scripture-bearers") and martial prowess (Astradhari, meaning "weapon-bearers").
Why Dashnami Akhadas Are Prominently Discussed
The prominence of the Dashnami Akhadas lies in their dual role:
1.Spiritual Leadership: They uphold and disseminate Vedic knowledge and philosophy, particularly through their Shaastradhari ascetics.
2.Protection of Dharma: Their Astradhari ascetics historically defended temples, pilgrimage routes, and practitioners of Sanatan Dharma during times of crisis.
Their widespread influence, structured organization, and visible presence at religious gatherings like the Kumbh Mela further amplify their significance.
Shaastradhari vs. Astradhari Akhadas

1.Shaastradhari Akhadas: These focus on scriptural study, meditation, and spiritual teaching. They preserve and propagate Vedic wisdom, emphasizing scholarly pursuits and ascetic practices.
2.Astradhari Akhadas: These were established as warrior ascetics, trained in martial arts and weaponry. They protected dharma from invaders and safeguarded religious sites and followers.
The distinction reflects the dual approach envisioned by Adi Shankaracharya to address spiritual and temporal challenges.
Origins and Evolution
•Establishment: The Shaastradhari and Astradhari systems were established simultaneously by Adi Shankaracharya to ensure a comprehensive approach to spiritual and societal needs.
•Evolution: While the Astradhari Akhadas historically engaged in physical combat, their role has become largely symbolic in modern times. They now focus on discipline, symbolic rituals, and public displays of their martial heritage during events like the Kumbh Mela.
Present Structure and Roles
The Dashnami Akhadas are organized under a hierarchical structure led by Mahamandaleshwars (senior ascetic leaders). Each Akhada maintains its own monastery, training centers, and spiritual network. Their roles include:
1.Shaastradhari Akhadas: Leading scriptural studies, teaching, and organizing religious discourses.
2.Astradhari Akhadas: Preserving martial traditions, performing rituals at key events, and symbolizing the protective aspect of dharma.
Purpose in Contemporary Times
The primary purpose of both Shaastradhari and Astradhari Akhadas remains the protection and promotion of Sanatan Dharma. They actively participate in:
•Conducting spiritual and educational programs.
•Maintaining traditional knowledge systems.
•Displaying unity and dharma’s enduring strength during events like the Kumbh Mela.
Overlap Between Dashnami Akhadas and Other Akhadas
There is some overlap, but distinctions arise based on lineage, sectarian affiliation, and functional emphasis. Here's a breakdown:
1.Dashnami Akhadas
o-These are specific monastic orders founded by Adi Shankaracharya, comprising both Shaiva and Shakta traditions.
o-All Dashnami Akhadas trace their roots to one of the ten Dashnami lineages and are broadly classified as Shaastradhari (scholars) or Astradhari (warriors).
2.Other Akhadas
o-These include Vaishnava Akhadas (e.g., Nirvani, Nirmohi, and Digambar Akhadas) and Udasin Akhadas.
o-They follow distinct theological traditions and practices, often aligned with Vishnu or universalist philosophies rather than Shankaracharya’s Shaiva lineage.
Reconciling Dashnami, Astradhari, and Shaastradhari Akhadas
To reconcile the terms:
•Dashnami Akhadas: The umbrella term for monastic orders within the ten Dashnami lineages, encompassing both Shaastradhari and Astradhari roles.
•Astradhari Akhadas: A subset of Dashnami Akhadas emphasizing martial traditions. Historically, they provided armed protection to temples and pilgrims.
•Shaastradhari Akhadas: Another subset focusing on spiritual and scriptural learning, offering religious guidance and maintaining Sanatan Dharma's intellectual traditions.
Overlap and Differences in Practice
•Overlap: Even within Dashnami Akhadas, many Shaastradhari ascetics may engage in rituals and traditions symbolizing their warrior roots, while Astradhari ascetics participate in spiritual teachings and ceremonies. This fluidity reflects their shared goal of upholding dharma.
•Differences: The key distinction lies in emphasis: Shaastradharis are primarily spiritual scholars, while Astradharis maintain and demonstrate martial discipline.
Visual and Functional Distinctions at Kumbh Mela
At events like the Kumbh Mela, these distinctions are evident in processions:
•Astradhari ascetics (often Naga Sanyasins) lead with displays of martial traditions, symbolic weaponry, and their characteristic ascetic attire.
•Shaastradhari ascetics carry holy scriptures and lead prayers, embodying the contemplative aspect of the tradition.
Together, they present a unified yet multifaceted representation of Sanatan Dharma.

(Uday Kumar Varma is an IAS officer. Retired as Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting)