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Aghori Cult in India
Background
The meaning of Aghori in Sanskrit is ‘not-fearful’, ‘fearless.’ This cult is known to come about from an ascetic in the 17th century known as Baba Keenaram. The leader lived till 170 years old.
The Aghori cult is known to reside near cremation sites. They follow a sector of Hinduism that is over 1000 years old. The cremation site the cult members live near is famously known as Varanasi. Varanasi was also where Baba Keenaram was buried, which is why this site was sacred to all cult members. However, members of this cult have also been found in cold caves, deserts and dense jungles all around India. This cult is primarily based in Uttar Pradesh, India.
The most famous practice of the Aghori cult is cannabilism. They’re known to feast on the flesh of corpses brought to the cremation site. Most of the time they eat the flesh raw, but occasionally, they cook it over an open fire.
The cult members are referred to as, Sadhus who are known as “holy men.” Sadhus are similar to monks.
Holy Beliefs
These monks have dedicated their entire lives to liberation and achieving it. However, they follow one of the most unconventional paths to this liberation. Their path to this freedom and liberation is radical. The Aghori believe their liberation will be achieved by practising rituals which are unorthodox for Hinduism. One of them being cannibalism.
They believe by performing rituals taboo to Hinduism, they can achieve rapid spiritual success.
These sadhus do not believe in the distinction between good and evil, and they do not think there is a difference between human and animal flesh.
The Aghori also do not believe in wearing clothing. They often wear a loincloth or move around naked. They believe this practice helps them overcome shame and free themselves of the materialistic world.
The Aghori also smear themselves in the ashes of the dead as they believe the ashes will protect them from disease. They believe the ashes to be an imitation of Shiva,
The Aghori praise Shiva, known as the god of destruction. Shiva is known to destroy the…
