Aghori
अघोरी
The Fearless Ascetic
A radical ascetic sect of Shaivism known for their extreme practices. They seek liberation by embracing what society considers taboo or impure, seeing divinity in everything.
The Fearless Ascetic
Aghoris follow an extreme path of Shaivism aiming for moksha (liberation) through transcendence of dualities such as pure and impure, life and death, sacred and taboo. They believe everything is Shiva, and nothing is inherently impure.
Common Practices:
- Living in cremation grounds (Shmashana sadhana)
- Meditation with skulls (Kapala sadhana)
- Use of ashes from dead bodies (Vibhuti)
- Consumption of offerings from funeral rituals (Charanamrit)
- Rituals invoking Bhairava and Kali
Path: Left-hand path (Vamachara) of Tantra
Purpose: To dissolve ego, destroy attachment, and attain moksha
Aghoris represent an extreme path of non-duality, seeking direct realization by confronting the most feared aspects of existence. They embody Shiva's aspect that lies beyond conventional purity and impurity.