Devotees of Lord Shiva – Aghoris worship Lord Shiva in his form as Bhairava and believe in achieving moksha (liberation) through intense spiritual practices.
Cremation Ground Sadhana – They meditate and perform rituals in cremation grounds, believing that confronting death helps them overcome worldly attachments and illusions.
Extreme Austerities – Aghoris practice severe penance, including meditation in harsh conditions, to break social and physical limitations.
Use of Human Remains
They are known for using skulls (kapalas) as ritual objects and sometimes even consuming human flesh as part of their belief in transcending purity and impurity.
Aghoris abandon conventional societal rules and often live naked or in minimal clothing to signify detachment from material possessions.
Some Aghoris consume alcohol, cannabis, and other substances during rituals, believing it helps them reach higher spiritual states.
Many believe Aghoris possess supernatural healing abilities and can cure diseases through their intense spiritual energy and mantras.
Most Aghoris live in seclusion, away from mainstream society, in places like forests, mountains, and near cremation grounds.
Guru-Disciple Tradition – Aghoris follow a strict guru-shishya (master-disciple) tradition, where knowledge and secret practices are passed down through direct guidance.