Why Naga Sadhus Don't Wear Clothes

Most of us are fascinated by Kumbh Mela. What hits your mind when you first think about Kumbh Mela? Well, it goes without saying that thoughts about 'naga sadhus' would first hit your mind the moment you think about the event. Those who have been to the place often wonder why these sadhus roam around without wearing anything. Well, there are so many reasons and let us discuss about the same in this article.

The Power Of Meditation

During Kumbh Mela, tons of Hindu pilgrims gather at one place to take a dip in the most sacred river of India. Actually, this event is considered as one of the biggest peaceful events of the world. Millions of people are expected and places like Allahabad and Haridwar are generally crowded during Kumbh Mela.

Well, being a sadhu is about leaving everything else and giving one's life to the path of spirituality. Here, spirituality implies either the search of God or finding the ultimate truth of the universe. Those who found the truth are considered enlightened and that is why others worship enlightened people.

Why Naga Sadhus Don't Wear Clothes

What does 'naga' mean?
Some sources say that 'naga' means naked. These sadhus are totally detached and they practice their detachment in all ways and means.

Do they live with family?
No, as said earlier, they are totally detached. A sadhu is someone who has severed all bonds with family and friends.

Do they stay in a house?
No, these sadhus roam in different places as they are not supposed to get attached to a single place. They generally move around without owning a house.

What do they eat?
They eat the food offered by pilgrims. They eat just to live; this means that they eat very little.

Why don't they wear clothes?
Well, renouncing clothes is the symbol of renouncing the world. Clothes protect us and they also denote the status. By giving up clothes, these sadhus have renounced one of the most basic necessities. This is a sign of their renunciation.

What do they do?
They generally meditate or follow some spiritual practice most of the time. They don't bother much about the weather and hence they are seen even in extreme cold and hot places without wearing anything.