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Like their male counterparts, Naga Sadhvis have to undergo rigorous penance and sadhana. They adhere to strict rituals and need to pass several tests before their penance culminates at the Maha Kumbh
Naga Sadhvis wear saffron garments that are specifically unstitched. (PTI File)
The Maha Kumbh Mela is underway in Prayagraj, with millions of devotees, including sadhus and saints, in attendance. This festival of faith holds great significance for those who have come to bathe at the confluence of the rivers during this auspicious time.
Naga Sadhus hold a special allure for people from India and abroad. Their world, shrouded in mystery, piques the curiosity of many. However, it is the Naga Sadhvis who garner even greater interest. People are particularly keen to understand how women enter this ascetic order and the rules that govern their lives.
Just as Naga Sadhus undertake rigorous penance and sadhana during the Maha Kumbh, Naga Sadhvis also adhere to numerous challenging rituals and regulations. They too must pass stringent tests before their penance culminates at the Maha Kumbh. This raises a common question: what happens if a Naga Sadhvi experiences menstruation during the Maha Kumbh? Are they permitted to bathe? Let’s delve into this matter with insights from Pandit Ramakant Mishra.
Do Naga Sadhvis participate in Amrit Snan during periods?
If Naga Sadhvis are menstruating at the time of Amrit Snan during Maha Kumbh, they are permitted to take Ganga water in their hands and sprinkle it on their bodies. This signifies that the Naga Sadhvi has bathed in the Ganga.
However, they are not permitted to go to the banks of the Ganga. They remain in their camp and bathe by mixing Ganga water with water available there. Naga Sadhvis cannot perform Sadhna during their periods; therefore, they engage in mental Jaap.
Rules for Naga Sadhvis
The life of a Naga Sadhvi differs significantly from that of their male counterparts. Their rules, lifestyle, and traditions are more demanding. For instance, Naga Sadhvis wear saffron garments that are specifically unstitched.
Naga Sadhvis must shave their hair and perform their own Pind Daan. Additionally, they are required to provide proof of their qualification and devotion to God to their guru.
Juna Akhara is the largest and oldest Akhara in the country. A significant number of Nagas Sadhvis are associated with it. During Kumbh, Mai Bada is established for Naga Sadhvis, providing accommodation for all the Naga Sadhvis.
Takes 10–12 years to be initiated
The process of becoming a Naga Sadhvi, like that of their male counterparts, takes 10–12 years. However, the criteria for women differ. While men undergo a process of genital deactivation to adhere to celibacy, women must pledge to follow celibacy. Demonstrating their commitment to this pledge often takes women 10 to 12 years.
- Location :
Prayagraj, India
