The Archaeology of the Ntha Sampradya in Western India, 12th to 15th Century by Vijay Sarde;

Author:Vijay Sarde;
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Taylor & Francis (Unlimited)
Published: 2023-01-18T09:47:19+00:00

Goraksha

Goraksha means protector of cattle. Goraksha or Gorakshanatha is colloquially known as ‘Gorakhnath’ throughout the Indian subcontinent. According to the Nātha yogis, he is credited with founding the Nātha sampradāya. He is also known in its southern version as ‘Korakkara Nādhāra’.49 It is traditionally known that Goraksha was a disciple of Matsyendra and Amara, Gahininath, Bhartrhari, Gopichand, Mugutabai (Muktabai), Vimaladevi, and Mallikanath were considered his disciples. Several legends are attached to him. According to one, he was protected by a heap of cow dung and hence known as ‘Goraksha’.50 According to another, he was a cowherd. Matsyendra approached him when he was lying down with other cowherd boys as the cows grazed amongst the trees. On Matsyendra’s order, Goraksha was to serve the dismembered Chaurangi for twelve years. After this, Matsyendra gave Goraksha initiation and empowerment and explained the teachings he should practice.51 These legends explain his connection with cows, as shown in the iconography.

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