Legacy of Spiritual Saints
History of Avahan Akhara
Avahan Akhara, also known as Shri Panch Dashnam Avahan Akhara, is one of the most ancient and respected Shaivite monastic orders in India. Founded under the guidance of Adi Shankaracharya, its mission is to protect and uphold Sanatan Dharma through deep spiritual practice and warrior ascetic traditions.
Founding and Lineage
Shri Panch Dashnam Avahan Akhara traces its spiritual origins to the great philosopher-saint Adi Shankaracharya, who in the 8th century CE organized the Dashnam Sannyasi tradition into ten lineages (Dash-nami) and established several Akharas to protect and propagate Sanatan Dharma.
Among these, Avahan Akhara was founded as a prominent Shaivite order—dedicated to Lord Shiva and aligned with the Niranjani Sampradaya, one of the main streams of Advaita Vedanta. “Avahan” translates to invitation or summoning, symbolizing the call to spiritual duty and renunciation.
Wisdom, Renunciation, and Dharma
Guru Parampara of Avahan Akhara
The Guru Parampara of Avahan Akhara is a sacred and unbroken chain of enlightened masters who have transmitted spiritual wisdom, ascetic discipline, and the principles of Sanatan Dharma from one generation to the next.
The fountainhead of the Dashnam Sampradaya and the re-establisher of Sanatan Dharma. He formalized the ten Dashnam orders and initiated warrior asceticism among sannyasis to protect dharma.
Guru of Adi Shankaracharya, deeply associated with the early Advaita Vedanta lineage, and revered in all Dashnam traditions.
A revered Mahamandaleshwar and yogi, formerly a fighter pilot who turned to deep Himalayan sadhana. He is known for his spiritual power and global teachings on meditation and inner transformation.
Currently one of the leading Mahamandaleshwars of Avahan Akhara. He plays a pivotal role in guiding the Akhara’s affairs, overseeing the initiation of sadhus, organizing dharmic activities, and maintaining the purity of tradition.
Upholding Dharma, Awakening Souls
Spiritual Mission & Vision
Avahan Akhara preserves Sanatana Dharma, guiding seekers through Vedic wisdom, spiritual discipline, and selfless service toward liberation and unity.
Spiritual Mission:
The core mission of Avahan Akhara is to preserve, protect, and propagate Sanatan Dharma (eternal Hindu tradition) through strict ascetic practices, spiritual discipline, and service. Rooted in the teachings of Adi Shankaracharya, its sadhus—especially the Naga Sadhus—are dedicated to a life of renunciation, devotion to Lord Shiva, and the practice of Advaita Vedanta. The Akhara also aims to uphold the purity of Vedic and Yogic knowledge while defending the faith from external threats, historically through martial training and spiritually through knowledge.
Spiritual Vision:
The vision of Avahan Akhara is to foster a society where spiritual awakening, dharmic living, and inner renunciation lead to liberation (moksha). It envisions a world where self-realization, guru-shishya parampara (teacher-disciple tradition), and yogic values guide human life. The Akhara also seeks to inspire devotion and fearlessness among followers and to serve as a moral and spiritual guide in times of religious or cultural turmoil.
Sacred Hierarchy, Disciplined Service
Organizational Structure
Avahan Akhara follows a traditional spiritual hierarchy, guiding seekers through disciplined roles from Brahmachari to Mahamandaleshwar.
Acharya
Mahamandaleshwar
Supreme spiritual head and guiding authority of the Akhara
Custodian of traditions, initiations, and major decisions
Maha
Mandaleshwar
Supreme spiritual head and guiding authority of the Akhara
Custodian of traditions, initiations, and major decisions
Acharya
Mandaleshwar
Supreme spiritual head and guiding authority of the Akhara
Custodian of traditions, initiations, and major decisions
Shri
Mahant
Supreme spiritual head and guiding authority of the Akhara
Custodian of traditions, initiations, and major decisions
Acharya
Mahant
Supreme spiritual head and guiding authority of the Akhara
Custodian of traditions, initiations, and major decisions
Sannyasi
Tyagi
Supreme spiritual head and guiding authority of the Akhara
Custodian of traditions, initiations, and major decisions
Acharya
Brahmachari
Supreme spiritual head and guiding authority of the Akhara
Custodian of traditions, initiations, and major decisions
Sevadar
Lay Devotees
Supreme spiritual head and guiding authority of the Akhara
Custodian of traditions, initiations, and major decisions