What is the history of Akhadas? let's know it!In the context of indian martial artists or a sampradaya monastery for religious renunciates in the Guru-Shishya tradition, the term "akhara" or "akhada" refers to a site of practice with accommodations for boarding, lodging, and training. In the Dashanami Sampradaya sect, for instance, the term refers to both the religious monastic elements of the trident-wielding martial regiment of the renouncing sadhus as well as martial arts.Akhara or Akhada have been a part of indian religious and cultural traditions, whose history of origin is also very old. Akhadas came into existence as a unity of saints and sages following different sects of hinduism in the indian subcontinent. It is believed that Akhadas were established about 5000 years ago, when saints and sages started fulfilling their religious objectives as a group.The main objective of Akhadas in maha Kumbh is to maintain balance and unity in the society along with religious rituals, penance and purification of the soul. Over time, these Akhadas have established their religious traditions, grand processions (Peshwai), and the process of holy bath during Kumbh Mela.Structure and role of Akhadas13 major Akhadas participate in maha Kumbh, which represent different sects of Sanatan Dharma. Among these, Shaiva, Vaishnava and Udasi sects are prominent. Every Akhara has its own specific religious purpose, tradition and conduct.There are various posts in the structure of an Akhara, which include acharya Mahamandaleshwar (the supreme leader of the Akhara), Mahamandaleshwar (the leader who guides the saints), and Shrimahant (the person who conducts the administrative work of the Akhara). Through these posts, the Akharas conduct their functioning and religious activities.
