The world’s largest sacred gathering, Maha Kumbh 2025, is currently taking place in Prayagraj. People from all across the globe are coming together to celebrate this grand event. In just the first 10 days, the crowd has exceeded the population of many countries, with a staggering total of over 100 million visitors. Among these visitors are the revered Akharas and Naga Sadhus. These Naga Sadhus at Maha Kumbh are not ordinary individuals but highly spiritual beings who have symbolically performed their own last rites.
Yes, you heard that right—these are not ordinary people. They are enlightened souls who have attained Nirvana, gained profound wisdom, committed to their pledge of achieving something extraordinary, and embody a supreme nature. But how do the Naga Sadhus achieve this level of transcendence? Let’s decode two of their crucial practices.
Two Mystical Secrets of Naga Sadhus at Maha Kumbh
The power of the Naga Sadhus is a testament to how humans can become incredibly powerful and achieve anything through sheer willpower. Unlike an average person who performs numerous exercises to build strength, these Naga Sadhus practice additional techniques that stretch the very limits of human capability. The Naga Sadhus we see at the Maha Kumbh usually reside in the caves of the Himalayas, forests, and ashrams, where they gain spiritual power and wisdom by completely disconnecting themselves from human interaction. Here are two “magical” ways they accomplish this:
Meditation
This is a powerful practice performed by the Naga Sadhus. Meditation nourishes the brain and serves as an exercise that everyone should practice to develop a healthy mind. Let’s talk about some of the benefits of meditation—it influences the medulla oblongata, which helps the body manage stress and regulate its response to it.
The benefits of meditation go far beyond what meets the eye. It reduces stress, enhances clarity of thought, regulates your lungs, boosts your hormones, improves the functioning of your brain and body, strengthens immunity, and much more. Naga Sadhus are pro-meditators; they have been practising it for years and have mastered the art.
If you also want to experience these benefits, then start by practising meditation for just 10 minutes a day. Initially, it may feel challenging, so the best way to begin is by focusing on your breath and continuing for a few minutes. Thoughts will naturally come to your mind—it’s normal and happens to everyone. Don’t worry, with consistent practice, you’ll reach a stage where you’ll begin to notice the positive effects. The best time to meditate is early in the morning, on an empty stomach, and in a quiet, distraction-free place.
Celibacy
Numerous studies and research have explored how celibacy (Brahmacharya) can support one’s fitness journey. From regulating hormone levels to enhancing motivation, it plays a massive role. Talking about the Naga Sadhus at the Maha Kumbh, these saints have been practising celibacy since adopting their ascetic lifestyle, and some even before that.
It is believed that celibacy provides them with immense power and wisdom. According to Ayurveda, when a person practices celibacy and retains semen for an extended period, the retained energy starts flowing upward toward the brain, nourishing it with vital and essential nutrients. In Ayurvedic terms, this process is referred to as preserving Ojas (energy).
Practising celibacy (Brahmacharya) was common in earlier times, as it was believed to test a man’s willpower, enhance youthfulness, and bring several health benefits, which include improved immunity and better sleep quality. It’s no surprise that celibacy helps Naga Sadhus attain such profound wisdom and strength.
What To Learn From Naga Sadhus At Maha Kumbh
If you are visiting the Maha Kumbh in 2025, consider yourself lucky, as it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that won’t happen again for almost three generations (144 years). Watching Naga Sadhus there is truly an incredible experience, and there are many lessons to be learned from them. If there are any major lessons to help you face real-life challenges, they would be:
Willpower
The willpower of Naga Sadhus is truly incredible; they are completely detached from the materialistic world and have devoted themselves to spirituality. These Naga Sadhus at the Maha Kumbh also practice Hatha Yoga by making their bodies uncomfortable, covering themselves in ashes, and completely detaching themselves from their families and loved ones. The lesson to be drawn here is to make your willpower so strong that no obstacle can slow you down.
This doesn’t necessarily mean you should leave everything behind and detach yourself, but if you are serious about your goals—whether it’s fitness, your career, or any other ambition—then work your fingers to the bone, stay focused, and avoid distractions.
Devotion
The Naga Sadhus are believed to be the greatest devotees of Lord Shiva. When they begin their journey on this path, they symbolically perform their last rites and join an Akhara. They fast for hours, and some even take it to the extreme, practising it for years. They chant and pray in locations like mountains, forests, and even cremation grounds. The lesson to be drawn from this is to become so devoted that nothing matters except you and your connection with the divine.
This doesn’t mean you need to be constantly devoted, fasting, or performing rituals. It simply means being so dedicated to what you do that you eliminate unnecessary distractions and focus on your purpose.
Importance of Celibacy & Meditation
Performing meditation regularly can be advantageous if you’re someone seeking mental control and other health benefits. Additionally, combining meditation with celibacy, especially in your younger years, before marriage, can be a powerful way to boost motivation and offer numerous health advantages.
The beginner’s way to practice meditation is to start by sitting in a quiet place and focusing on your breath. Slowly expand your lungs as you inhale, then exhale the air from your lungs. Additionally, to practice celibacy, begin by preserving your semen for a few days and then gradually increase the number of days over time.
Concluding Thoughts!
Maha Kumbh 2025 is truly a mesmerising event, and witnessing the Naga Sadhus adds a profound dimension to the pilgrimage for devotees. It’s no surprise that living such a lifestyle is no easy feat. However, there are countless lessons we can learn from them, as their practices go beyond the typical understanding of human nature. By becoming devoted to our work—whether it’s our fitness journey or career—we can carve the way for meaningful success.
Additionally, incorporating their secrets of strength: meditation and celibacy—into our lives can offer numerous benefits, such as clearer thoughts, improved health, better relationships, and more.
Note: The content in this article is intended for informational purposes only, drawing references from Hinduism and Ayurveda. TheFitInside does not promote any religious propaganda, and it is always advisable to consult a health expert before making massive changes to your lifestyle.