Asceticism enjoyed great respect in Hindu Society in the past. With the advancement of physical sciences, however, the attitude of the people towards asceticism changed and people started doubling the relevance of this institution. Besides, several pernicious practices crept in the ascetic life in course of time which tarnished the image of Hindu Society general and Sadhus’ Community in particular.
But even today there are people who value spiritual aspects of asceticism and claim that Indian Sadhus still play a positive role in society. This volume is a study of Sadhus of Uttar Pradesh, with specific aim of evaluating their role and status in the modern Indian Society.
To ensure the authenticity of the investigation, the author adopted the technique of Participant Observation by getting himself initiated in the Shaiva as well as Vaishnava Sampradaya. 500 Sadhus of different sects and maths from ten pilgrim-centres in Uttar Pradesh were interviewed. After giving a brief description of almost all the existing Vaishnava, Shaiva and miscellaneous sects, the author gives an account of the socioeconomic background of Sadhus, their economic and sociopolitical status, their views and belies and attitudes. He also narrates the sociopolitical status, their views and beliefs and attitudes. He also narrates the sociopolitical status, their views and beliefs and attitudes. He also narrates the social services rendered by Sadhus and their different organizations. Against this background, he discusses the problems connected with the future of Sadhus.
In the present revised and enlarged edition, the author has added four chapters namely, Sadhus at Kumbh, Sadhus sharing Social Concern, Litigation among Sadhus and Contemporary Trends in Asceticism.
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