What is an Akhara, and what are its primary contexts in Indian culture?

An Akhara, also spelled Akhada, is an Indian term that refers to a place of practice. It encompasses facilities for boarding, lodging, and training, serving two main contexts: Indian martial artists and monasteries for religious renunciates within the Guru-shishya tradition. For instance, within the Dashanami Sampradaya, the term denotes both martial arts training and the monastic aspects of trident-wielding sadhus.

What is the etymological meaning of the word 'akhara'?

The word 'akhara' is gender-egalitarian and etymologically means 'circle' or, more precisely, 'the spiritual core.' It can also refer to a 'congregation' or 'league.' Similar to the Greek word 'academy' or the English word 'school,' it can denote a physical institution or a group of institutions sharing a common lineage or leadership.

How does the living arrangement in an akhara differ from that of a Gurukul?

Unlike a Gurukul, where students live and study at the home of a guru, members of an akhara, while training under a guru, do not necessarily live a domestic life. Some akhara members strictly practice Brahmacharya (celibacy), while others may require complete renunciation of worldly life. Wrestlers, for example, are expected to live a pure life at the akhara, refraining from sex and possessing few material possessions.

What are some linguistic variations of the word 'akhara'?

In some languages, the word is transcribed differently. For example, in Odia, it is officially transcribed as 'akhada,' rendering the flapped sound as 'd.' In the Haryanvi and Khari Boli dialects, the term is shortened to 'khada.'

According to historical texts, what was the earliest meaning of 'akhara'?

In its earliest usage, 'akhara' referred to training halls specifically for professional fighters. Govind Sadashiv Ghurye translates the term as 'military regiment.'

Where is the ancient use of the word 'akhara' found in literature?

An ancient use of the word 'akhara' can be found in the epic Mahabharata, which describes Jarasandha's Akhara at Rajgir. The Mahabharata is estimated to be from around 400 BCE, describing events from approximately 900 BCE.

Who are credited as the founders of early martial akharas in India?

Legendary figures such as Parashurama and Agastya are credited in certain regions of India as the founders of early martial akharas.

What ancient Indian sports or training practices have origins in military training?

Many popular sports mentioned in the Vedas and epics have roots in military training. These include boxing (musti-yuddha), wrestling (maladwandwa), chariot-racing (rathachalan), horse-riding (aswa-rohana), and archery (dhanurvidya).

How did Adi Shankaracharya influence the organization of ascetics and akharas?

During the 8th century, Adi Shankaracharya founded the Dashanami Sampradaya and divided ascetics into two categories: Shastradhari (scripture-bearers) for intellectuals and Astradhari (weapon-bearers) for warriors. He established Naga sadhus as an astradhari armed order, essentially a Hindu army, which was organized into akhara or regiments.

What are the founding dates of some of the ancient Shaivite martial akharas within the Dashanami Sampradaya?

Based on a 19th-century manuscript cited by Sir Jadunath Sarkar, six ancient Shaivite martial akharas of the Dashanami Sampradaya were founded on the following dates: Avahan Akhara (547 CE), Atal Akhara (646 CE), Nirvani Akhara (749 CE), Niranjani Akhara (904 CE), Juna Akhara (originally Bhairavi Akhara, founded 1146 CE), and Anand Akhara (1856 CE). These akharas historically prohibited the consumption of meat and narcotics.

What are the characteristics of Vaishnavite martial akharas?

Vaishnavite martial akharas, whose followers are also known as Bairagi or Vairagi, are organized into seven groups. The founding dates for most of these are unclear. Unlike the Shaivite akharas, Bairagi martial akharas generally did not prohibit the consumption of meat or narcotics. Each akhara accepted members from all four major sects of Vaishnavism: Sri (founded by Ramananda), Brahma (founded by Madhava), Rudra (founded by Vishnusuvamin), and Sanakadi (founded by Nimbarka).

What role did Dadupanthis play in the formation of armed martial akharas?

Armed martial akharas were likely first formed by the Dadupanthi guru Jait Sahib between 1693 and 1734 CE, when he recruited armed Naga sadhus. By 1733, Dadupanthis were tax-paying farmers in Jaipur State, and these martial sadhus were employed to enforce tax collection. They also provided 5,000 armed soldiers to defend Jaipur State and acted as auxiliaries for the East India Company forces during the Indian Rebellion of 1857.

What historical conflicts involved different akhara groups?

Historical records indicate several conflicts between akhara groups. In 1567 CE, Jogis (Giris) and Sannyasis (Puris), both orders within the Dashanami Akhara, battled each other, with Emperor Akbar intervening to support the Puris. Later, in 1690 CE and 1760 CE, akharas of Saivite and Vaishnavite sects fought violently at Nashik mela (resulting in 60,000 deaths) and Haridwar mela (resulting in 1,800 deaths).

How did the East India Company administration impact the role of akharas?

The East India Company administration established a sequence for the order of procession for royal bathing by the akharas at the Kumbh Mela in 1780 CE to prevent disputes. Their administration also eventually limited the warrior role of akharas, which helped diminish the violent sectarian clashes that had occurred previously.

When was the Kinnar Akhara established, and by whom?

The Kinnar Akhara was established in 2018 by the hijra (transgender) community. It operates under the Juna Akhada, also known as Shri Panchdashnaam Juna Akhada.

What is a 'Sampradaya' and a 'Parampara' in the context of Indian religious traditions?

A Sampradaya is a specific system of belief, and within it, a particular guru's lineage is called a 'parampara.' A Sampradaya can be translated as 'tradition,' 'spiritual lineage,' or a 'religious system,' representing a body of practices, views, and attitudes transmitted through successive generations. A parampara is the specific line of succession of masters and disciples within that tradition.

What are the three main belief-system Sampradayas mentioned?

The three distinct belief-system Sampradayas mentioned are Vaishnava (followers of Vishnu), Shaivite (followers of Shiva), and Dashanami (associated with Advaita Vedanta).

What are the three types of Guru-Shishya Paramparas?

The three types of Guru-Shishya Paramparas are Deva (divine), Rishi (sage), and Manav (human).

How does one become a member of a Sampradaya?

One becomes a member of a Sampradaya by receiving diksha (initiation) into the guru-shishya traditional parampara of a living guru. Membership is not determined by birth, unlike the concept of 'gotra' (a seminal or hereditary dynasty).

What is the distinction between Shastradhari and Astradhari akharas?

Shastradhari akharas are associated with the intelligentsia, focusing on scripture ('shastra'). Astradhari akharas, on the other hand, are associated with warriors ('astra'), referring to the Naga sadhus of the Dashanami Sampradaya, who formed an armed order organized into regiments or akharas.

What is the historical significance of Naga sadhus as an armed order?

Naga sadhus, organized by Adi Shankaracharya as an astradhari (weapon-bearers) armed order, served as a militia or Hindu army. Their akhara, or regiments, were formed for self-defense, but this also led to violent sectarian clashes at religious gatherings like the Kumbh Melas.

What is 'Astra' in the context of Indian martial arts?

'Astra' refers to weapons or martial arts, which have a long tradition in India. The term encompasses various forms of combat and weaponry practiced historically and presently.

What is considered the oldest recorded organized unarmed fighting art in South Asia?

The oldest recorded organized unarmed fighting art in South Asia is malla-yuddha, or combat-wrestling, which was codified into four forms and predates the Vedic Period.

What is the modern usage of the term 'akhara' in relation to wrestling?

In modern usage, 'akhara' most commonly denotes a wrestling ground, typically associated with 'kushti' (traditional Indian wrestling). It serves as both a training school and an arena for wrestlers to compete.

Describe the traditional wrestling ground (akhara) used for kushti.

Wrestlers' akharas traditionally have dirt floors. Water, red ochre, buttermilk, and oil are added to the dirt. These grounds are used for training and competition in wrestling and other fighting systems.

What is a 'dangal' in the context of an akhara?

While an akhara is a place where practicing martial artists lodge and train, it also typically serves as an arena for 'dangal.' Dangal is a Hindi word that means 'sparring or competition' held among competing athletes within the akhara.

What lifestyle practices are expected of 'pehlwan' (wrestlers) living in an akhara?

Pehlwan practicing in an akhara are expected to live a disciplined life. This includes practicing celibacy, abstaining from smoking and alcohol, and adhering to a traditional diet rich in milk, ghee, dried nuts, and roti.

What is a 'langot' and what is its purpose?

A langot, also known as langota, is a traditional Indian loincloth worn by men as underwear, particularly in wrestling ('dangal') held in akharas. Its primary purpose is to prevent hernias and hydrocele during intense physical activity.

How does a 'langot' differ from a 'kaupina'?

A langot is a sewn garment that covers the buttocks and groin, mainly worn by wrestlers. A kaupina, often worn by ascetics or older men, is a similar but unsewn garment that passes between the buttocks and does not cover them.

Which Indian state is highlighted as a powerhouse for wrestling and related sports, and why?

Haryana is identified as India's powerhouse for sports like wrestling, both nationally and internationally. This is attributed to its culture's strong emphasis on hard work, soldiery, and sportsmanship.

What is the significance of the Mahavir Singh Phogat Akhara in Balali village?

The Mahavir Singh Phogat Akhara in Balali village, founded by Mahavir Singh Phogat, is notable for training his daughters, Geeta and Babita Phogat, who became Olympians. The story of their hard work and success inspired the popular film 'Dangal.'

What is 'Shashtra Vidhya' as taught in monastic akharas?

'Shashtra Vidhya' refers to the knowledge of 'Shastras' (treatises or scriptures). Monastic akharas have a tradition of teaching various subjects, including Hindu scriptures, Yoga Sashtra, Vastu shastra, Vaimānika Shāstra (ancient aerospace technology), Jyotiṣa (astrology), Nadi Sashtra (fortune telling), Rasa shastra (medicine), Shilpa Shastras (arts and crafts), Natya Shastra (dance, drama, performing arts), Tantra, Para Vidya (Higher knowledge), and Madhu-vidya (knowledge of bliss).

How are monastic akharas typically organized?

According to some texts, a monastic akhara is governed by a sacred body of five, the 'Sri Pancha,' and organized into 52 'Matha' or 'Marhi.' These Marhis can refer to 52 countries (Desas) divided into 8 'Dvas' (directions). The mathas are permanent centers led by a 'mahant' (spiritual leader).

What is the role of the 'Sri Pancha' in an akhara?

The 'Sri Pancha,' or sacred body of five, is the top administrative body of each akhara. It represents Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, Shakti, and Ganesha. This body is elected by consensus from among the Mahants of the Matha or Marhi that constitute the akhara, serving a four-year term, typically elected during the Kumbh Mela.

What is the hierarchy within the Sri Pancha?

The Sri Pancha members hold positions in decreasing order of seniority: Acharya Mahamandaleshwara (Great leader and Teacher), Mahamandaleshwara (senior divisional leader), Mandaleshwara (divisional leader), Sri Mahant (senior spiritual leader), and Mahant (spiritual leader or master of a Matha).

What are the four main classifications of akharas based on Sampradaya?

Akharas are classified into four main categories based on their traditional philosophical denominations (Sampradaya): Sanyasi Akhara (followers of Shiva), Vairagi Akhara or Bairagi Akhara (followers of Vishnu), Udasi Akhara (followers of Hinduism with Sikh practices), and Kalpwasis akhara (followers of Brahma, typically temporary participants in Kumbh Mela).

What is the significance of the Pari Akhara?

The Pari Akhara is an exclusive akhara for female sadahavi (saints). It was included in the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela for the first time starting in 2013, functioning as a subsidiary akhara under one of the existing traditional akhara.

How many akharas were allowed to participate in the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela in January 2019, and what organization do they form?

In January 2019, 13 akharas were permitted to participate in the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela. These akharas formed the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad (All India Akhara Council) with two representatives from each akhara to manage akhara-related affairs nationwide.

What are the major Sanyasi Akharas associated with the followers of Shiva?

Major Sanyasi Akharas include the Niranjani Akhara, Anand Akhara, Juna Akhara, Avahan Akhara, and Agni Akhara. The Pari Akhara, for female saints, is also associated with this category.

What are the major Vairagi Akharas associated with the followers of Vishnu?

Major Vairagi Akharas include the Mahanirvani Akhara (also known as Nirvani), Atal Akhara, Nirmohi Akhara, Digambar akhara, and Khalsa akharas.

What is the Udasi Akhara?

The Udasi Akhara is associated with followers of Hinduism who incorporate Sikh practices. An example of an Udasi Akhara is the Nirmal Akhara.

What defines a Kalpwasis akhara?

Kalpwasis akharas are associated with followers of Brahma and are generally composed of ordinary people who temporarily adopt an austere life during the Kumbh Mela to emulate the 'Vanaprastha' (retiring into the forest) stage of life. These are typically temporary formations without fixed ongoing organization or leadership.

Which ancient Shaivite akharas are considered major today, and which are considered minor?

Today, the Juna Akhara, Niranjani Akhara, and Mahanirvani Akhara are considered the three major monastic akharas. Avahan and Agni (affiliated with Juna), Ananda (affiliated with Niranjani), and Atal (affiliated with Mahanirvani) are considered minor akharas.

What is the role of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad (ABAP)?

The Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad (ABAP), founded in 1954, is the apex organization for 13 major Hindu Sants and Sadhus' akharas. It represents a large following in India and holds the privilege of participating in the Shahi Snan (royal bath) at the Kumbh Mela and Ujjain Simhastha melas in a predetermined sequence.

What is the traditional sequence of akhara processions during the Kumbh Mela's Shahi Snan?

During the Kumbh Mela's Shahi Snan, the monastic akharas lead the bathing rituals. The traditional order of procession is: 1. Mahanirvani akhara with Atal akhara, 2. Niranjani akhara with Anand akhara, 3. Juna akhara with Ahvahan and Agni akhara, 4. Nirvani akhara, 5. Digambar akhara, 6. Nirmohi akhara, 7. Naya Udasin akhara, 8. Bada Udasin akhara, and 9. Nirmal akhara.

What martial art is associated with the Akali Nihang Baba Darbara Singh Sanatan Suraj Bansia Shastar Vidiya Shiv Akhara?

The Akali Nihang Baba Darbara Singh Sanatan Suraj Bansia Shastar Vidiya Shiv Akhara, founded in 1661, is associated with Nihang martial arts, such as Gatka.

What is the historical context of the Ranjit Akhara in Amritsar?

The Ranjit Akhara in Amritsar was founded by Guru Hargobind (1595-1644 CE) near the Akal Takht. It is associated with Sikh martial traditions.

What is the significance of the Chandgi Ram Akhara in New Delhi?

Founded by master Chandgi Ram in 1975, the Chandgi Ram Akhara in New Delhi was the first women's wrestling akhara established in India, promoting female participation in the sport.

What is the meaning of 'Shastra' in the context of monastic akharas?

'Shastra' in Sanskrit and Hindi means treatise or scriptures. In the context of monastic akharas, it refers to the study of various sacred texts and scholarly disciplines, as opposed to 'astra' which relates to weapons.

What is the historical significance of the Juna Akhara's founding date?

The Juna Akhara, one of the ancient Shaivite martial akharas of the Dashanami Sampradaya, was founded in 1146 CE. It was originally known as the 'Bhairavi Akhara.'

What is the primary focus of the Major Martial Arts Akharas listed by state?

The Major Martial Arts Akharas listed by state are primarily focused on wrestling and Pehlwani, which is a form of traditional Indian wrestling.

Akhara Wiki: The Crucible of Discipline: An Exploration of India's Akhara Tradition

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

What is an Akhara?

Definition and Scope

An Akhara, also known as Akhada, is a multifaceted term in the Indian subcontinent. It denotes a place of practice that provides facilities for boarding, lodging, and rigorous training. Historically, this term has encompassed two primary domains: the training grounds for Indian martial artists and the monastic establishments for religious renunciates within a sampradaya (spiritual lineage), operating under the esteemed Guru-shishya tradition.^{^[1]}

Etymological Roots

The word "akhara" itself carries a rich semantic weight. It can be understood as a "circle," a "spiritual core," a "congregation," or a "league." This broad meaning is analogous to the Greek-derived term "academy" or the English word "school." It signifies not only a physical institution but also a collective group bound by a common lineage or under unified leadership, whether in religious thought or martial practice.^{^[4]}^{^[5]}

Dual Nature: Martial and Monastic

Unlike the gurukul, where students reside and study at the guru's home, members of an akhara, while training under a guru, typically do not lead a domestic life. Some adhere strictly to Brahmacharya (celibacy), while others may require complete renunciation of worldly affairs. For instance, wrestlers are expected to maintain a pure life within the akhara, abstaining from sexual activity and possessing minimal material possessions.^{^[3]}

Etymology and Meaning

Linguistic Origins

The term akhara is considered gender-egalitarian and signifies a place of learning or practice. Its meaning extends to a "circle" or, more precisely, the "spiritual core," a "congregation," or a "league." This conceptual breadth allows it to refer to both a physical institution and a network of institutions sharing a common heritage or leadership, akin to a school of monastic thought or a school of martial arts.^{^[3]}^{^[4]}^{^[5]}

Regional Variations

In certain linguistic contexts, such as Odia, the term is officially rendered as "akhada," reflecting a phonetic shift where the flapped sound is represented by 'd'. In dialects like Haryanvi and Khari Boli, the word is often shortened to "khada." These variations highlight the term's deep integration into the cultural and linguistic fabric of India.^{^[1]}

Historical Trajectory

Ancient Roots and Martial Regiments

The earliest recorded use of "akhara" points to training halls for professional fighters, with scholars like Sir Jadunath Sarkar translating the term as "military regiment."^{^[7]} The epic Mahabharata (circa 400 BCE, describing events from around 900 BCE) mentions Jarasandha's Akhara in Rajgir, indicating the practice's antiquity.^{^[2]} Legendary figures such as Parashurama and Agastya are credited with founding early martial akharas in various Indian regions.^{^[2]}

Spiritual and Military Synthesis

The 8th-century philosopher Adi Shankaracharya established the Dashanami Sampradaya, dividing ascetics into two categories: Shastradhari (scripture-bearers, the intelligentsia) and Astradhari (weapon-bearers, warriors). The Naga Sadhus, an armed order created by Shankaracharya, served as a martial force, organized into regiments known as akharas.^{^[2]} These martial akharas, particularly within the Dashanami Sampradaya, were historically significant, sometimes engaging in conflicts and playing roles in societal events like the Sannyasi rebellion.^{^[13]}

Foundation Dates and Historical Conflicts

Manuscripts detail the founding of several ancient Shaivite martial akharas:

547 CE: Avahan Akhara
646 CE: Atal Akhara
749 CE: Nirvani Akhara
904 CE: Niranjani Akhara
1146 CE: Juna Akhara (originally "Bhairavi Akhara")
1856 CE: Anand Akhara

Historically, sectarian disputes between akharas, particularly between Saivite and Vaishnavite groups, sometimes escalated into violent clashes during religious festivals like the Kumbh Mela, leading to significant casualties before administrative interventions.^{^[11]}

Classifying Akharas

Shastradhari Akhara

Shastra, meaning treatise or scripture, refers to akharas focused on the acquisition of knowledge. These monastic institutions served as centers for learning various disciplines, including Hindu scriptures, Yoga Sashtra, Vastu Shastra (architecture), Vaimānika Shāstra (ancient aerospace technology), Jyotiṣāstra (astrology), Nadi Sashtra (fortune telling), Rasa shastra (medicine), Shilpa Shastras (arts and crafts), Natya Shastra (performing arts), Tantra, and Para Vidya (higher knowledge).^{^[3]}

Astradhari Akhara

Astra, referring to weapons or martial arts, denotes akharas dedicated to physical training and combat. These institutions, often associated with warrior ascetics like the Naga Sadhus, served as military regiments or training grounds for martial arts such as wrestling (malla-yuddha), sword fighting, and other combat forms.^{^[2]} In modern contexts, "akhara" frequently refers specifically to wrestling arenas.

Martial Arts and Wrestling

Pehlwani and Dangal

In contemporary usage, "akhara" most commonly signifies a wrestling ground, typically associated with the traditional Indian wrestling style known as Pehlwani or Kushti. These arenas serve as both training schools and competitive venues. Wrestlers, or pehlwans, often live within the akhara, adhering to strict regimens of celibacy, abstinence from intoxicants, and a disciplined diet rich in milk, ghee, and nuts.^{^[35]} The term dangal refers to the wrestling competitions or sparring events held within these akharas.^{^[36]}

The Langot

The langot, or langota, is a traditional Indian loincloth worn by men, primarily as underwear during intense physical activities like wrestling in akharas. This sewn garment covers the buttocks and groin and is believed to help prevent hernias and hydroceles.^{^[37]} It is distinct from the kaupina, a simpler, unsewn garment often worn by ascetics.

Prominent Martial Akharas

India boasts numerous significant martial arts akharas, many focused on wrestling and Pehlwani. These institutions are spread across various states, reflecting the widespread cultural importance of these disciplines:

Haryana: Known for its contribution to sports, Haryana hosts numerous akharas, including those associated with the Phogat family in Balali, and centers in Jind, Hisar, and Gurgaon.
Maharashtra: Cities like Kolhapur and Pune are home to historic akharas such as Motibag Akhara and Chinchechi Talim Akhara, some dating back centuries.
New Delhi: Notable akharas include Guru Hanuman Akhara, Chandgi Ram Akhara (pioneering women's wrestling), and Chhatrasal Akhara.
Punjab: The Ranjit Akhara in Amritsar, founded by Guru Hargobind, is a significant Sikh martial arts center.
Other Regions: Akharas are also found in states like Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal, preserving diverse martial traditions.

Monastic Traditions and Learning

Shastra Vidya and Knowledge Transmission

The Shastradhari akharas represent a profound monastic tradition focused on the transmission of knowledge. Disciples within these institutions pursued mastery over a wide array of subjects, including sacred texts, Yoga Sashtra, architectural principles (Vastu Shastra), ancient aeronautical sciences (Vaimānika Shāstra), astrology, traditional medicine (Rasa Shastra), arts and crafts (Shilpa Shastras), performing arts (Natya Shastra), Tantra, and higher spiritual learning (Para Vidya).^{^[3]}

Sampradaya and Parampara

Within the monastic framework, a sampradaya refers to a distinct system of belief and spiritual lineage, while a parampara denotes the succession of gurus and disciples within that lineage. These traditions are crucial for maintaining religious identity and ensuring the continuity of teachings. Adherence to a specific sampradaya-parampara is typically achieved through initiation (diksha) from a living guru, rather than by birth.^{^{[note 1]}}

Organizational Structure

The Sri Pancha and Mahants

The administrative apex of an akhara is traditionally the Sri Pancha, a sacred council of five, symbolizing key deities like Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, Shakti, and Ganesha. This body, elected by consensus among the Mahants (spiritual leaders) of the constituent Mathas (monastic centers or Marhi), holds office for four years, typically appointed during the Kumbh Mela. This structure mirrors ancient Indian republican systems like the Panchayat and Khap.^{^[50]}

Mathas and Leadership Hierarchy

Each akhara is often composed of permanent monastic centers known as Mathas or Marhi, each led by a Mahant. These centers can be affiliated with larger, established akhara groups or function independently. The hierarchy within the Sri Pancha typically includes roles such as Acharya Mahamandaleshwara (Supreme Leader), Mahamandaleshwara (Senior Divisional Leader), Mandaleshwara (Divisional Leader), Sri Mahant (Senior Spiritual Leader), and Mahant (Spiritual Leader of a Matha).

Sampradaya Affiliations

Major Denominations

Akharas are primarily classified based on their adherence to one of four major Sampradayas (philosophical denominations) within Hinduism:

Sanyasi Akhara: Followers of Shiva, primarily associated with the Dashanami Sampradaya. Key examples include Niranjani, Anand, Juna, Avahan, and Agni Akharas.
Vairagi Akhara: Followers of Vishnu, also known as Bairagi Akharas. Prominent ones include Mahanirvani (Nirvani), Atal, and Nirmohi Akharas.
Udasi Akhara: Associated with followers of Hinduism who incorporate Sikh practices, such as the Nirmal Akhara.
Kalpwasis Akhara: Temporary congregations of individuals observing an austere life during the Kumbh Mela, mimicking the Vanaprastha (forest-dwelling) stage of life. These are generally not permanent organizations.

Historical Lineages

Each sampradaya encompasses various paramparas (lineages), each initiated by a specific guru. These lineages trace back to foundational figures and represent distinct streams of spiritual and philosophical thought. For instance, the Shaivite tradition includes lineages like the Nandinatha Sampradaya, Meykandar Sampradaya, and Adinath Sampradaya, while the Advaita Vedanta tradition is represented by the Dashanami Sampradaya with its four major monastic seats (Mathas).^{^[18]}

Procession Order at Kumbh Mela

Shahi Snan Protocol

During the sacred bathing rituals (Shahi Snan) at the Kumbh Mela, the monastic akharas lead the procession before the general public participates. The order of precedence is meticulously maintained to prevent disputes and reflects the historical hierarchy and influence of each group. This sequence is managed by bodies like the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad.^{^[58]}

Mahanirvani Akhara (with Atal Akhara)
Niranjani Akhara (with Anand Akhara)
Juna Akhara (with Ahvahan and Agni Akharas)
Nirvani Akhara
Digambar Akhara
Nirmohi Akhara
Naya Udasin Akhara
Bada Udasin Akhara
Nirmal Akhara

The inclusion of the Kinnar Akhara, representing the transgender community, marked a significant development in recent times, often affiliated as a subsidiary group.

Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad

The Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad (All India Akhara Council), established in 1954, serves as the apex organization for the major Hindu monastic orders. Representing the collective interests of thirteen principal akharas, it plays a crucial role in managing affairs related to the akharas, particularly concerning their participation and precedence during major religious gatherings like the Kumbh Mela.^{^[55]}^{^[56]}

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Akhara" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about akhara while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

discipline instrument of penance

pope julius ii

mayfair

transit-oriented development

cultural survival

tree

References

The word commands much more respect and power in the Indian context than its translations in English does.

Art and Culture: Painting and Perspective, Volume 2, Ahsan Jan Qaisar, Som Prakash Verma.2002

Carnival of the Soul At India's Maha Kumbh Mela, News Week, Tahir Shah, 3 May 2013

David N. Lorenzen, 2006, Who Invented Hinduism: Essays on Religion in History, Yoda Press, p.51-65.

Kumbh Mela was originally known as Magh Mela, Outlook India

Nisargathatta maharaj

P. N. K. Bamzai (1994) "Culture and Political History of Kashmir"

Lakshmanjo Academy

Rudraneil Sengupta, 2016, Enter the Dangal: Travels through India's Wrestling Landscape, chapter 1 and 2.

Top 10 Indian akhara training centres, ScoopWhoop

Guru Leelu Akhara

Akhara praised by Gandhi lies unsung on its centenary in Amravati, DNA News, 1-May-2012

Guru hanuman akhara

Ranjit Akhara

Hindu origin of Sikh religion and martial arts, www.shastarvidiya.org

Fight clubs of varanasi, The Hindu Business Line, 7 Nov 2014

[South Asian Religions on Display: Religious Processions in South Asia and in the Diaspora, Knut A. Jacobsen, ISBN hardback 978-0-415-4373-3, ISBN ebook ISBN hardback 978-0-203-93059-5]

A full list of references for this article are available at the Akhara Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This content has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is based on publicly available data and aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the Akhara tradition.

This is not professional advice. The information presented here should not be considered a substitute for consultation with qualified scholars, historians, spiritual leaders, or martial arts practitioners. The nuances of religious traditions, historical interpretations, and martial practices require expert guidance.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided herein. Users are encouraged to consult primary sources and expert opinions for deeper understanding.

The Crucible of Discipline

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

What is an Akhara? ℹ️

🏛️ Definition and Scope

📜 Etymological Roots

⚖️ Dual Nature: Martial and Monastic

Etymology and Meaning 📜

🌐 Linguistic Origins

🗣️ Regional Variations

Historical Trajectory ⏳

⚔️ Ancient Roots and Martial Regiments

🕉️ Spiritual and Military Synthesis

📜 Foundation Dates and Historical Conflicts

Classifying Akharas ⚖️

📚 Shastradhari Akhara

⚔️ Astradhari Akhara

Martial Arts and Wrestling 🥋

🤼 Pehlwani and Dangal

🧵 The Langot

📍 Prominent Martial Akharas

Monastic Traditions and Learning 🕉️

📖 Shastra Vidya and Knowledge Transmission

🔗 Sampradaya and Parampara

Organizational Structure 🏛️

👑 The Sri Pancha and Mahants

🏠 Mathas and Leadership Hierarchy

Sampradaya Affiliations 🙏

🕉️ Major Denominations

📜 Historical Lineages

Procession Order at Kumbh Mela ➡️

👑 Shahi Snan Protocol

🤝 Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

What is an Akhara?

Definition and Scope

Etymological Roots

Dual Nature: Martial and Monastic

Etymology and Meaning

Linguistic Origins

Regional Variations

Historical Trajectory

Ancient Roots and Martial Regiments

Spiritual and Military Synthesis

Foundation Dates and Historical Conflicts

Classifying Akharas

Shastradhari Akhara

Astradhari Akhara

Martial Arts and Wrestling

Pehlwani and Dangal

The Langot

Prominent Martial Akharas

Monastic Traditions and Learning

Shastra Vidya and Knowledge Transmission

Sampradaya and Parampara

Organizational Structure

The Sri Pancha and Mahants

Mathas and Leadership Hierarchy

Sampradaya Affiliations

Major Denominations

Historical Lineages

Procession Order at Kumbh Mela

Shahi Snan Protocol

Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice