Maha Kumbh 2025: 7 Enthralling Facts About Female Naga Sadhus

BY: Purnima Mishra

Female Naga Sadhus or Sadhvis hold great importance in Hinduism. They are seen as ascetics who have given up the material world. 

Who are Female Naga Sadhus?

On the path of enlightenment, female Naga Sadhus, also called Mahila Naga Sadhus give up material belongings and relationships, accepting renunciation.

Accepting Renunciation 

Like their male counterparts, female Naga Sadhus undergo a rigorous initiation procedure. This requires years of devoted spiritual process. 

Initiation Process 

Within the ascetic community, these female Naga Sadhus promote equality while demanding spiritual exercises, which include meditation, penance.

Ascetics' Equality 

Female Naga Sadhus live in extremely austere lives after being initiated. They follow rigorous meditation, yoga, and prayer regimens.

Discipline In Life 

Female Naga Sadhus or Sadhvis also embodies women empowerment. They demonstrate that obtaining spiritual emancipation is not impeded by one's gender. 

Women Empowerment 

Female Naga Sadhus reside in Akharas, which is often known as monastic orders. Akharas offer a nurturing environment for female ascetics and function as hubs for spiritual education

Spiritual Home, Akharas