In 2025, the largest and most significant religious festival, Maha Kumbh, has seen the Naga Sadhus at the center of discussion. Some say they are naked Sadhus and uncivilized, while others believe they are violent and may harm anyone. Often, our lack of knowledge misleads us into believing rumors or fabricated stories. Moreover, the distinct and vital contributions of the Naga Sadhus have largely remained hidden.
As the Maha Kumbh is the main center of attraction and the Naga Sadhus are yet to be understood in their true essence, I delve into the remnants of our Indian Freedom Movement, which tell a different story about this lesser-known sect.
Who Are the Naga Sadhus?
The Naga Sadhus belong to the Dashanami Sampradaya, a sect established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century to safeguard Hinduism. Unlike typical sadhus, they are trained in martial arts, weaponry, and warfare and are known for their fierce combat skills. Historically, they defended temples from invaders and were a formidable force against external aggressors, including the Mughal and British rulers.
Resistance Against British Rule:
From the early colonial period, the British viewed the Naga Sadhus as a potential threat to their control over India. Several factors contributed to this perception:
- Their Large Numbers and Combat Skills: The Naga Sadhus often traveled in large groups and were skilled in traditional Indian warfare using swords, tridents, and sticks.
- Their Influence Over the Masses: They had strong connections with the rural population, making them powerful agents in spreading nationalist sentiment.
- Their Resistance to British Policies: The British attempted to suppress their activities by restricting access to arms and interfering in religious practices, leading to direct confrontations.
Participation in Revolts and Movements:
- The Sannyasi Rebellion (1770s – 1800s):
One of the earliest revolts against British rule, the Sannyasi Rebellion, was led by ascetics, including Naga Sadhus. This movement arose due to the economic hardships caused by British policies, particularly high taxation and land revenue policies that led to the Bengal Famine of 1770. The Naga Sadhus, alongside local peasants, raided British establishments and resisted colonial oppression.

- Role in the Revolt of 1857:
During the First War of Indian Independence in 1857, many Naga Sadhus actively participated in the armed resistance. They joined forces with freedom fighters and played key roles in guerrilla warfare, attacking British supply lines and disrupting communication networks. Their ability to move across different regions unnoticed made them excellent messengers and informants for rebel leaders.
- Secret Networks and Sheltering Revolutionaries:
Naga Akharas (monastic orders) served as hubs for revolutionary activities, providing shelter and logistical support to freedom fighters evading British surveillance. Many nationalist leaders sought refuge in monasteries, where they were protected by the warrior monks.
- Participation in Nationalist Movements:
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Naga Sadhus contributed to nationalist movements by:
- Spreading anti-colonial sentiments through religious discourses and gatherings.
- Mobilizing people against British rule during large Kumbh Mela gatherings.
- Encouraging Indians to uphold the values of self-reliance and resistance against foreign domination.
Also Read: Mental Health and Spiritual Growth: A Holistic Approach to Personal Well-being
British Crackdown on Naga Sadhus:
Recognizing their potential as a resistance force, the British took several measures to suppress the influence of Naga Sadhus:
- Banning Armed Ascetic Groups: The colonial administration imposed restrictions on carrying weapons, which affected the martial traditions of the sect.
- Surveillance and Arrests: The British closely monitored Naga Akharas and arrested those suspected of aiding revolutionaries.
- Interference in Religious Gatherings: The authorities attempted to disrupt Kumbh Melas, fearing they were being used to organize nationalist activities.
Notable figures such as Swami Vivekananda and Bal Gangadhar Tilak acknowledged the importance of ascetic traditions in reviving India’s spiritual and nationalistic consciousness. Their warrior spirit inspired many revolutionaries to adopt a life of sacrifice for the greater cause of India’s freedom.