Dandi Sanyasi Traditions: This time the arena of Dandi Sanyasis has been set up in Sector 19 of Maha Kumbh. Their biggest identity is their stick, which is the link between them and God. They do not have the right to touch anyone nor to let anyone touch them. Jitendrananda Saraswati said that the process of Dandi Swami is necessary before becoming Shankaracharya.
Under this, one has to follow celibacy for 12 years. They are the highest monks of the Sanatan Hindu religion. Their life is dedicated to the welfare of society and the nation. At present, there are about one thousand Dandi Swamis across the country.
In the scriptures, this punishment is considered a symbol of Lord Vishnu, it is also called 'Brahma Danda'. When a Brahmin takes sanyaas and follows the rules prescribed for him according to the scriptures, then he becomes eligible to receive the punishment.
The Dandi of a Sanyasi is a symbol of Lord Vishnu and his powers. All Dandi Sanyasis perform Abhishek, Tarpan and Puja of their Danda daily. Dandi Sanyasis keep their Danda clean with the prescribed covering. They keep the Dandi open during worship, except for that they keep it covered at all times.
Maha Kumbh – Photo : Amar Ujala
The danda of a sanyasi is believed to contain the divine power of the universe; its purity has to be maintained at all times. The danda should not be shown openly to unworthy and unauthorized persons. The Dandi Sanyasis, an important sect of saints in the country, claim that Shankaracharya was chosen from among them. Sadhus aspiring to become Dandi Sanyasis have to cross many hurdles before being accepted under their wing.
Maha Kumbh – Photo : Amar Ujala
Dandi Sanyasis are not cremated after death. This is done because the last rites are performed during the initiation itself. It is believed that during this time they attain salvation and after death, Sanyasis are not cremated like common people, but their Samadhi is built. According to Advaita theory, worship of Nirguna Nirakar Brahma is the aim of their life.
PC:AmarUjala
