Sadhu

Pilgrims also meet sadhus, gurus and other holy people. Listening to their teachings and receiving guidance can help pilgrims develop their spiritual lives. Kumbh Mela therefore matters not only because of sacred bathing, but also because it brings people together for worship, learning and inspiration.

A Swaminarayan account describes a sadhu who had previously insulted and beaten him arriving late at night at Sarangpur mandir, where Yogiji Maharaj was in charge. The visitor was hungry and had a septic wound on his foot. Yogiji Maharaj admitted him, cleaned and dressed the wound, cooked food for him and arranged an ox-cart for his onward journey to Kariyani the next morning.