The Naga Story: A Novel

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It was completely dark in the cave. Rumi and Shekhar flabbergasted seeing the sadhus smeared with ash on their bodies and matted hair, absorbed in deep meditation. The desire to know about Naga Sadhus had drawn them here. Some sadhus were meditating, some others were chanting loudly, and some appeared to be in silent meditation. The sadhus were performing penance in the bone-chilling cold in snowy solitude. Their long matted hair was wrapped around their heads. There was a fiery look on their faces, and rage was reflecting from their whole being. However, they seemed unperturbed, indifferent, and free from worldly troubles.

Most would think twice before stepping into this solitary world, but those who had the passion and courage to do something different, did it fearlessly. The lives of Shiva devotees and armed Naga Sadhus were no less than an unsolved mystery for them. They are seen in thousands in Kumbh Mela, and then they disappear quietly. Who are Naga Sadhus? How do they lead their lives? Why are they called Dharmarakshak warriors? Read in this interesting book written completely in a new style.

Suman Bajpai is a versatile literary figure with 34 years' extraordinary experience. As a writer, journalist, editor, translator, storyteller and avid traveller, she has made significant contributions to Indian literature. She has authored more than 20 books on diverse subjects, including eleven collections of short stories and nine books for children, showcasing her creative prowess. Also her prolific translation work includes 160 books from English to Hindi, bridging linguistic gaps and bringing world literature to Hindi readers.

Bajpai's journalistic acumen shines through her articles on various topics, which have graced the pages of numerous magazines and newspapers. As an enthusiastic travel journalist, she weaves captivating narratives of places and cultures. Beyond her writing, Bajpai is committed to nurturing the next generation of translators; mentoring students in the art of book translation. Her multifaceted career spanning over three decades as an editor, which has established her as a respected voice in Indian literature and journalism, inspiring both readers and aspiring writers alike.

The life of Naga Sadhus is one of austerity. A mystery, a curiosity, a wonder-many questions arise when it comes to Naga Sadhus. Whenever the Kumbh and Ardh Kumbh Mela take place in the country, Naga Sadhus are seen. For centuries, Naga Sadhus have been viewed with both faith and a sense of mystery and wonder. There is no doubt that they are a subject of astonishment for the public because their attire, activities, and methods of meditation are out of the ordinary. No one can predict when they might be pleased or when they might get angry.

Naga Sadhus, with their long dreadlocks and ash-covered naked bodies, have no connection with the outside world. Their lives are filled with hardships that common people cannot even imagine. Living a highly disciplined and ascetic life in some cave, meditating, these Naga Sadhus are beyond joy and sorrow as we may know it.

The tradition of Naga Sadhus is not new; it has been going on for thousands of years. We find signs of this tradition in the coins and images of Mohenjo-Daro, where Naga Sadhus are seen worshipping Lord Shiva in the form of Pashupati Nath. It is said that when Alexander and his soldiers came to India, they encountered Naga Sadhus. Not only that, but Lord Buddha and Lord Mahavira were also greatly influenced by the austerity and dedication of the Naga Sadhus towards their motherland.

The current form of the Indian Sanatan Dharma was established by Adi Guru Shankaracharya. Shankar was born in mid-8th century, a time when the state and direction of the Indian populace was in turmoil. Many invaders, attracted by India's wealth, were making their way to the subcontinent. Some took away its treasures, while others were so enchanted by India's divine aura that they stayed.

Peace and order was disrupted. God, religion, and religious scriptures faced all kinds of challenges-logical, martial, and scholarly. In such times, Shankaracharya established Sanatan Dharma to safeguard the way of life. One important step was the construction of the four Peethas (spiritual centers) at the four corners of the country. Adi Guru initiated the establishment of akharas (armed branches of various sects of Sanatan Dharma) to counter those who looted the properties of monasteries and temples and harassed the devotees.

In that era of social turmoil, Adi Guru Shankaracharya felt that merely spiritual power was not enough to face these challenges. He emphasized that young Sadhus should strengthen their bodies through exercise and also acquire proficiency in handling weapons. Hermitages were established where such exercises or weapon training were conducted, which later came to be known as 'akharas.' Shankaracharya suggested that these akharas use force if necessary to protect monasteries, temples, and devotees. Thus, during the period of external invasions, these akharas acted as a protective shield.