Ep 1. Aghori Sadhus in India

Believer with Reza Aslan is a documentary series that explores different faiths and religions across the world, providing an in-depth look at the customs, beliefs, and practices of various religious communities. Season 1, episode 1 follows Reza as he journeys to India in an attempt to better understand the Aghori Sadhus, a sect of ascetic Hindu holy men known for their extreme practices and an unconventional approach to spirituality.

The episode takes Reza deep into the heart of India, where he meets with various Aghori Sadhus who are willing to share their stories and provide insight into their way of living. Reza discovers that the Aghori Sadhus are not your typical holy men: they live in cemeteries, smear their bodies with ash and wear human skulls as jewelry. They also engage in practices that many would consider taboo, such as eating human flesh and skin.

Reza goes on a journey with one of the Aghori Sadhus through the crowded streets of Varanasi, a city on the banks of the Ganges river, where they encounter different people, both from wealthy backgrounds and poor areas. Throughout the journey, different aspects of Indian culture and society are explored, such as the caste system and the marginalization of lower castes.

As the episode progresses, the viewer learns more about the Aghori Sadhus and the reasons why they engage in such unconventional practices. Reza discovers that the Aghori Sadhus believe that their way of life allows them to connect with the divine in a unique way, creating a sense of oneness with the universe. Many of the practices they engage in are used as a form of purification, allowing them to tap into the spiritual realm more deeply.

The episode also explores the political and social climate surrounding the Aghori Sadhus in India. With the rise of Hindu nationalism, many of these holy men have become targets of hate crimes, harassment, and even violence. Reza highlights the unsettling realities of religious intolerance and the ways in which extremist political agendas can affect religious minorities.

Ultimately, the episode provides a fascinating glimpse into one of the most controversial and misunderstood religious orders in India. Through his conversations with various Aghori Sadhus, Reza Aslan is able to demystify some of their more extreme practices and highlight the deeper meaning behind their way of life.

Believer with Reza Aslan season 1, episode 1 offers a unique perspective on the role of spirituality and religion in Indian culture and society, while posing important questions around tolerance and understanding of religious difference.