Naga Sadhus are the center of special attraction in the Mahakumbh organized in Prayagraj. There is a wonderful mystery and spirituality hidden in the tradition, adornment and lifestyle of these sadhus. This adornment of Naga Sadhus on the occasion of Amrit (royal) bath during Mahakumbh is worth seeing. Preparation for this makeup starts from the night itself, so that they are completely ready for the royal bath in the morning. Seventeen adornments of Naga Sadhus have been mentioned in detail in journalist and author Dhananjay Chopra’s book “Kumbh in India”. Let us know the features of these seventeen adornments.
You have heard about the 16 adornments of women, but the 17 adornments of Naga Sadhus not only arouse interest, but each adornment has its own specialty and a story of its own. All these ornaments are directly related to Bholenath Shiv Shankar and every adornment is a part of some form or the other of his.
1. Bhabhut or Bhasma
For Naga Sadhus, Bhabhuta is like a garment. After bath they apply it on the whole body. It is made from the ashes obtained from the cremation ground, but many sadhus prepare it by burning havan material and cow dung. This Bhabhuta is also distributed to the devotees in the form of Prasad. In the process of making Bhabhuta, havan material and cow dung are burnt. Raw milk is used along with Peepal, Pakad, Mango, Belpatra, Banana leaves etc. in Havan Kund. Balls (laddus) are made by mixing these ingredients. These balls are repeatedly heated in fire and then cooled with raw milk. Naga monks give the Bhabhuta thus prepared to people as Prasad and apply it on their own bodies.
2. Langot or Kapeen: Apart from Bhabhut, Naga Sadhus wear loincloth or Kaupin. It is worn by his followers to protect them from discomfort or to follow Hatha Yoga. Loincloth has been an integral part of the attire of sadhus since ancient times. Its three cores symbolize three penances, three worlds and three fasts. This is the most helpful garment for observing celibacy and is the famous Rudransh of Lord Shiva worn by Hanuman ji. Therefore its spiritual importance is also greater.
3. Rudraksha For Naga Sadhus Rudraksha is the symbol of Lord Shiva. They wear it around the neck and body. Some sages even decorate their entire body with Rudraksha beads. Rudraksha is considered to be water fallen from the eyes of Lord Shiva. On earth he is considered to be the true form of Shiva. These Rudrakshas are one mukhi, two mukhi, three mukhi, four mukhi and five mukhi. Their faces are determined on the basis of the stripes on Rudraksha.
4. Sandalwood, Roli and Turmeric: Tilak of sandalwood, roli or turmeric on the forehead is an integral part of the makeup of Naga Sadhus. With these they make a ‘tripund’ on the forehead, mark it and also apply paste on the arm. Its red-yellow colors are symbols of sacrifice and penance. Sandalwood paste is also applied to Lord Shiva.
5. Iron Ring: Naga Sadhus wear iron rings on their feet. Sometimes silver rings are also seen.
6. Hand Kada: Kada is the main ornament in the hands of Naga Sadhus, this kada is made of iron, brass, silver or other metal.
7. Ring: Naga Sadhus wear jeweled rings and also add pearls to their locks.
8. Coil: Wearing earrings in the ears is a part of their adornment. These earrings are made of silver or other metal.
9. Garland of flowers: Naga Sadhus decorate their matted hair, neck and waist with garlands of marigold and other flowers. flower garland for their adornment
10. Jata Tying and keeping matted hair is the most important part of the makeup of Naga Sadhus. Braided matted hair is the identity of Naga Sadhus. They never cut them, except on the death of their master. The hair is decorated with Rudraksha, gemstone garland or flowers. Jata is directly a symbol of Lord Shiva. He has decorated Chandradev in this same hair and at the time of descent of Ganga, he stopped him with the help of these hair and also reduced his speed. When Lord Shiva was enraged by the burning of Sati, he revealed himself to Veerbhadra by breaking his locks to destroy Daksha Yagya.
11. Panchakesha This is part of their makeup and tradition, which they carry with them.
12. Kajal or Surma: Applying kajal on eyes is an important part of their makeup.
13. Half moon Naga Sadhus wear a silver crescent on their head as a symbol of Lord Shiva.
14. Damru: Damru is also a symbol of Lord Shiva, which he keeps with him. Maheshwar Sutra was originated from the sound of this Damru, on the basis of which Panini composed the grammar.
15. Pliers: Tongs are also the most important part in the makeup of a Naga Sadhu. This Dhuni is used for pacifying and giving blessings.
16. Ganda: For the Naga Sadhu, Ganda symbolizes the presence of his Guru, which he always wears.
17. Weapons: Naga Sadhus, who are called Dharma Sainiks, also keep weapons with them. These are also part of their makeup. In this he keeps weapons like axe, sword, trident and stick with him. Trishul is the weapon of Lord Shiva. The ax is also his weapon, which he gave to Parashuram. Similarly, he had given Chandrahasa sword as a boon to Ravana. All these weapons are their symbols.
Seeing these seventeen adornments of Naga Sadhus during Mahakumbh is a unique experience. This tradition not only reflects their spirituality but also gives a glimpse of their mysterious and disciplined lifestyle. Devotees see these and experience Shivatva in their lives.