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Aghori- An Untold Story
Is a vibrantly colored collage of varied experiences that the protagonist, Subraiya or Subbu as he is fondly addressed as goes through. Subbu’s extremely deep and earnest desire to know more about the Aghori Sadhus / Babas becomes the basis of this most unique and indelible journey of adventures and experiences.
The book is not just a story but an opportunity for the reader to experience an exuberant expedition that incorporates different and diverse activities which are spiritual, intriguing, ethereal and at times, frightening!
Aghori-an untold story has been written in an autobiographical form with the intense intent of the author to make the reader feel that he or she is part of all the adventures and experiences. I believe that it is completely up to the reader or a better word would be the ‘viewer’ to infer whether the story of Subbu and his journey with the Aghoris is fiction or reality!
The book is not just a story but an opportunity for the reader to experience an exuberant expedition that incorporates different and diverse activities which are spiritual, intriguing, ethereal and at times, frightening!
Aghori-an untold story has been written in an autobiographical form with the intense intent of the author to make the reader feel that he or she is part of all the adventures and experiences. I believe that it is completely up to the reader or a better word would be the ‘viewer’ to infer whether the story of Subbu and his journey with the Aghoris is fiction or reality!
142 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 26, 2021
270 people are currently reading
1397 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
August 30, 2021
Aghoris or Aghora Sadhus are known to be one of the most mysterious sects of Sadhus. Their bodies are smeared with age, rage writ large on their faces. I have seen them and always found them too intimidating for my liking. I have been legit scared of their persona. However, 'The Aghori' gave me a fresh perspective on the culture of a special group of ascetic Sadhus.
The Aghori by Mayur Kalbag is a story of faith and adventure that unfolds into discovering key insights into the lives of enigmatic Aghora Sadhus. Our protagonist sets out on a journey to a remote location to interact with these sadhus and absorb some mantras. This culminates in him becoming much more informed about their culture. His thirst for knowing more takes him places and intrigues the readers thoroughly.
The book reveals some fascinating facts about Aghoris who are otherwise infamous for being hippies, outrageous and eating human flesh. That's not entirely true and through this book, the author attempts to open our eyes to reality. Be it their eating habits to the process of activation, everything is both intimidating and exciting. Their variety of meditation practises was a joy to read for me. Just like the protagonist, I felt satisfied to uncover some new information for my knowledge base.
Although the book offers some amazing insights, the narrative fails in delivering a thrilling experience to its readers. The story leading up to the protagonist meeting the Sadhus at Kedarnath is bland and not fully developed. While the central plot is unique, the writing and narration missed the mark. There were errors in editing that hampered my experience to some extent. Perhaps, this could be taken care of in future editions.
Besides this, I simply loved the concept of Aghori. If the premise sounds interesting, you may give it a shot.
The Aghori by Mayur Kalbag is a story of faith and adventure that unfolds into discovering key insights into the lives of enigmatic Aghora Sadhus. Our protagonist sets out on a journey to a remote location to interact with these sadhus and absorb some mantras. This culminates in him becoming much more informed about their culture. His thirst for knowing more takes him places and intrigues the readers thoroughly.
The book reveals some fascinating facts about Aghoris who are otherwise infamous for being hippies, outrageous and eating human flesh. That's not entirely true and through this book, the author attempts to open our eyes to reality. Be it their eating habits to the process of activation, everything is both intimidating and exciting. Their variety of meditation practises was a joy to read for me. Just like the protagonist, I felt satisfied to uncover some new information for my knowledge base.
Although the book offers some amazing insights, the narrative fails in delivering a thrilling experience to its readers. The story leading up to the protagonist meeting the Sadhus at Kedarnath is bland and not fully developed. While the central plot is unique, the writing and narration missed the mark. There were errors in editing that hampered my experience to some extent. Perhaps, this could be taken care of in future editions.
Besides this, I simply loved the concept of Aghori. If the premise sounds interesting, you may give it a shot.
December 26, 2022
Guess I'm not the only one who is here after watching the TRS podcast about aghoris.
Now, I would like to point out the positive things first:
1) Good read
2) extremely fast paced. You will want to finish it in one go
Now coming to the cons:
1) lots of punctuation errors, grammatical mistakes that were hampering my reading experience throughout.
I hope cares will be taken in the future editions.
2) I read this book ONLY because I wanted to know about aghoris. Honestly, now I'm feeling like the podcast was much more interesting to listen to than reading this book because of the author's amateurish writing.
Same words like 'keenness' 'excited' are repeated every now and then. You will find either "I asked him anxiously", "I felt excited" or "I am keen to know" in almost every page.
3) The expression of the protagonist is so blank and boring that it was slowly getting on my nerves.
4) The more I went on, the more the book started appearing fictitious rather than reality.. maybe because of the writing style.
The three rituals of the activation process described in the first half were deeply fascinating as well as terrifying.
But then the author started describing some unbelievable things in the second half of the book.
The reference to the 'breath-holding worms' or 'shwas-roki keeda' reminded me of Harry potter and the Goblet of fire where Nevil gave Harry a handful of Gillyweed so that Harry could breath underwater.
Then the alien angle came and it was already too much for me.
After finishing the book, I'm just left confused.
See, I'm an average person who will probably never have the opportunity to encounter with the aghoris in this lifetime. So the only option I have is to keep an open mind to everything and read as much as I can.
Even if I leave my skepticism behind, I'm neither rejecting nor believing everything that the author wrote.
Again I would point out at the writing style. It was too naive and predictable and at the same time, the incidents sounded too perfect.
Now, I would like to point out the positive things first:
1) Good read
2) extremely fast paced. You will want to finish it in one go
Now coming to the cons:
1) lots of punctuation errors, grammatical mistakes that were hampering my reading experience throughout.
I hope cares will be taken in the future editions.
2) I read this book ONLY because I wanted to know about aghoris. Honestly, now I'm feeling like the podcast was much more interesting to listen to than reading this book because of the author's amateurish writing.
Same words like 'keenness' 'excited' are repeated every now and then. You will find either "I asked him anxiously", "I felt excited" or "I am keen to know" in almost every page.
3) The expression of the protagonist is so blank and boring that it was slowly getting on my nerves.
4) The more I went on, the more the book started appearing fictitious rather than reality.. maybe because of the writing style.
The three rituals of the activation process described in the first half were deeply fascinating as well as terrifying.
But then the author started describing some unbelievable things in the second half of the book.
The reference to the 'breath-holding worms' or 'shwas-roki keeda' reminded me of Harry potter and the Goblet of fire where Nevil gave Harry a handful of Gillyweed so that Harry could breath underwater.
Then the alien angle came and it was already too much for me.
After finishing the book, I'm just left confused.
See, I'm an average person who will probably never have the opportunity to encounter with the aghoris in this lifetime. So the only option I have is to keep an open mind to everything and read as much as I can.
Even if I leave my skepticism behind, I'm neither rejecting nor believing everything that the author wrote.
Again I would point out at the writing style. It was too naive and predictable and at the same time, the incidents sounded too perfect.
August 11, 2021
Witness the journey of Faith, adventures, spirituality, mystery and Magic. It's a journey of Subraiya or Subbu who has a deep desire to know more about the Aghori Sadhus / babas.
With a unique plot and descriptive narration, with a backdrop of Uttarakhand, written in an autobiographical form, Subbu's quest to learn more about them and help his Guru becomes the basis of this unique journey of adventures and experiences.
The thought of having a conversation with Aghori's gives us a chill, and Subbu's decision to live with them for few days comes as a surprise that will make the readers curious.
The way the story started and proceeded adding mystery and adventure along with a lil fear makes this book fascinating. One could relate to Subbu's journey, his quests and his curiosity.
The frightening activities that he witnessed, the process he went through while carrying Mantras for his Guru, the spiritual and surprising experience he had living with Aghori's and knowing about their life and powers are going to astound us.
Read it a bit slow, there's a lot more to discover. Divided into 19 chapters, it's a short but heavy read with a smooth flow of words. The use of Hindi words, the way Aghori's answered Subbu's questions, the journey they shared was amazing.
The well-developed characters sharing their journey makes this book more interesting. Subbhu's character is of course my favourite character. I liked his curiosity, patience, his helpful nature and his desire to know more.
With the simple language and candid writing style, with a blend of various themes, it's a book that you are going to love.There were few spelling errors that can be taken care of.
There's drama, there's mystery, there's a different experience that awaits for the readers.
If you want to know more about the life of Aghori's, do not skip this one.
An amazing book!
With a unique plot and descriptive narration, with a backdrop of Uttarakhand, written in an autobiographical form, Subbu's quest to learn more about them and help his Guru becomes the basis of this unique journey of adventures and experiences.
The thought of having a conversation with Aghori's gives us a chill, and Subbu's decision to live with them for few days comes as a surprise that will make the readers curious.
The way the story started and proceeded adding mystery and adventure along with a lil fear makes this book fascinating. One could relate to Subbu's journey, his quests and his curiosity.
The frightening activities that he witnessed, the process he went through while carrying Mantras for his Guru, the spiritual and surprising experience he had living with Aghori's and knowing about their life and powers are going to astound us.
Read it a bit slow, there's a lot more to discover. Divided into 19 chapters, it's a short but heavy read with a smooth flow of words. The use of Hindi words, the way Aghori's answered Subbu's questions, the journey they shared was amazing.
The well-developed characters sharing their journey makes this book more interesting. Subbhu's character is of course my favourite character. I liked his curiosity, patience, his helpful nature and his desire to know more.
With the simple language and candid writing style, with a blend of various themes, it's a book that you are going to love.There were few spelling errors that can be taken care of.
There's drama, there's mystery, there's a different experience that awaits for the readers.
If you want to know more about the life of Aghori's, do not skip this one.
An amazing book!
October 24, 2023
0.5 stars
Where do I start with how terrible this book was
1. Firstly, it's not a true account by any means. It's definitely fictional and draws inspiration from multiple movies/shows/other novels etc.
2. The writing is terrible and the editor was definitely serving a notice period.
3. The style of writing is in the form of a podcast and, while I love podcasts, it is not good in a written form.
4. The author is clearly lying or delusional: I figured it would tell me more about the aghori lifestyle but it's a narcissistic dream that shows the author in a supernatural light.
5. 0.5 stars coz I'm in a good mood
Where do I start with how terrible this book was
1. Firstly, it's not a true account by any means. It's definitely fictional and draws inspiration from multiple movies/shows/other novels etc.
2. The writing is terrible and the editor was definitely serving a notice period.
3. The style of writing is in the form of a podcast and, while I love podcasts, it is not good in a written form.
4. The author is clearly lying or delusional: I figured it would tell me more about the aghori lifestyle but it's a narcissistic dream that shows the author in a supernatural light.
5. 0.5 stars coz I'm in a good mood
December 22, 2022
This book describes many details about the lives of Aghoris. Most of us do not have more than rudimentary knowledge about these people. I enjoyed learning about them.
Unfortunately, the book does not explain what is fiction and what is real. We do not know the 'powers' of Aghoris the author describes are what he witnessed or just imagined while writing this book.
Another major problem with the book is the writing style. There are many spelling and grammar mistakes. A proper proofreading could have easily fixed it. There are pages where paragraphs would have made reading easier. Also, there are no page numbers. I have never read a book without page numbers until I picked up this book. I wish he also included some photographs.
But, my main problem with the book is the style of writing, grammar, punctuation, etc.
Unfortunately, the book does not explain what is fiction and what is real. We do not know the 'powers' of Aghoris the author describes are what he witnessed or just imagined while writing this book.
Another major problem with the book is the writing style. There are many spelling and grammar mistakes. A proper proofreading could have easily fixed it. There are pages where paragraphs would have made reading easier. Also, there are no page numbers. I have never read a book without page numbers until I picked up this book. I wish he also included some photographs.
But, my main problem with the book is the style of writing, grammar, punctuation, etc.
May 8, 2023
An attempt to write a spiritual book but an utter failure at it. Couldn't connect with the reader anywhere. Most of the scenarios seem forced and fictional. Nowhere it feels real. Could have been executed much better. The author could have put in more effort I guess. Seems like it was written by a school kid.
May 16, 2023
An enthralling journey into the mystical realm of the Aghoris, leaving me captivated from start to finish. 🤷📚The author's vivid storytelling transports readers to the depths of their extraordinary rituals and beliefs. One quote that deeply resonated with me was, 'In the darkness, I found the light of my own existence.' It beautifully encapsulates the transformative power of the Aghori path. This book is a compelling exploration of spirituality, pushing boundaries and challenging preconceived notions.
A must-read for anyone seeking to unravel the enigmatic world of the Aghoris.
A must-read for anyone seeking to unravel the enigmatic world of the Aghoris.
December 22, 2021
Please read for expanding your horizon and get introduced to a new viewpoint 🔥🔥.
For years our pop culture has either made joked about or made villains out of the yogis. Portraying them as these funny beings who do useless stuff which is ineffective or we see this evil tantric who only means bad. We really need to know more about the Indian spiritual traditions and grow out of what the education system teaches us about it.
Mayur Kalbag makes an honest attempt on the book but I wanted it to be a bit more descriptive and detailed even if it needed increasing the length of the book.
I would have loved to hear more from the yogis, not only their present but also their past.
Their way of thinking and their worldview.
Subbu meets a lot of spiritual beings maybe we get to know them more😅😅.
I still would rate it 5 star despite the shortcomings because the book serves its purpose of raising your inquisitiveness and opens you to a new world where the things don't work the way we think they do.
So, kudos to the writer and badly need a second part💯💯.
For years our pop culture has either made joked about or made villains out of the yogis. Portraying them as these funny beings who do useless stuff which is ineffective or we see this evil tantric who only means bad. We really need to know more about the Indian spiritual traditions and grow out of what the education system teaches us about it.
Mayur Kalbag makes an honest attempt on the book but I wanted it to be a bit more descriptive and detailed even if it needed increasing the length of the book.
I would have loved to hear more from the yogis, not only their present but also their past.
Their way of thinking and their worldview.
Subbu meets a lot of spiritual beings maybe we get to know them more😅😅.
I still would rate it 5 star despite the shortcomings because the book serves its purpose of raising your inquisitiveness and opens you to a new world where the things don't work the way we think they do.
So, kudos to the writer and badly need a second part💯💯.
April 8, 2022
**Alternative Title - Aghori, the beginner's guide**
This book is for everyone who knows very little or absolutely nothing about the life of Aghoris, but are keen to learn about it with a mind wide open. This book by no means is a "Religious" book, so don't confuse it with one.
It is written from the perspective of the protagonist "Subbu," who is an ordinary man venturing into an extraordinary journey. As he moves ahead in his journey, he learns that the true Aghori experience only begins where the modern science ends. So, if at any point while reading the book you feel like finding parallels with modern science, I would urge you to stop it. Modern science is currently in the developing stage and has not yet fully evolved.
I discovered this book after listening to the podcast of Ranveer Allahbadia and the author Mayur Kalbag. Togather they have done 2-3 episodes. If you haven't yet listened to them I would urge you to check out the episodes after reading this book as it will give you a broader perspective about their conversation.
This book is for everyone who knows very little or absolutely nothing about the life of Aghoris, but are keen to learn about it with a mind wide open. This book by no means is a "Religious" book, so don't confuse it with one.
It is written from the perspective of the protagonist "Subbu," who is an ordinary man venturing into an extraordinary journey. As he moves ahead in his journey, he learns that the true Aghori experience only begins where the modern science ends. So, if at any point while reading the book you feel like finding parallels with modern science, I would urge you to stop it. Modern science is currently in the developing stage and has not yet fully evolved.
I discovered this book after listening to the podcast of Ranveer Allahbadia and the author Mayur Kalbag. Togather they have done 2-3 episodes. If you haven't yet listened to them I would urge you to check out the episodes after reading this book as it will give you a broader perspective about their conversation.
September 1, 2025
Honestly, this book shines a new light on the world of the Aghori sadhus. It gently pulls back the curtain on a group long wrapped in mystery and fear.
With every page, it helps the reader move past old myths and misunderstandings, offering a rare look into their lives—their unusual customs, their intense practices, and the beliefs that guide them. For the curious mind, it’s a powerful glimpse into a world most of us have only heard whispers about.
Read my detailed review here - https://www.bookgeeks.in/aghori-an-un...
With every page, it helps the reader move past old myths and misunderstandings, offering a rare look into their lives—their unusual customs, their intense practices, and the beliefs that guide them. For the curious mind, it’s a powerful glimpse into a world most of us have only heard whispers about.
Read my detailed review here - https://www.bookgeeks.in/aghori-an-un...
May 30, 2025
Found this one looking for another famous book in mystics called Aghora , reviews suggested this one’s more original . If you are willing to take that leap of faith and remove all perceived ideas about Aghoris you might enjoy this entertaining read . For me as the story progresses it became difficult to accept the encounters without doubts , nevertheless finished it in few hours. The story gets over but the unusual rituals the other worldly passages still keeps invading my thoughts.
December 30, 2022
I am a shiv bhagt and I love him and I respect the aghoris because their love for Mahadev is on a whole another level and I never like when people say bad things about Aghori sadhu even without understanding anything about them, people don't understand that we meditate on shiv or pray to our God for like an hour a day at most but they have given their whole life to be one with him and yes there ways are a little strange but at the same time they are most difficult too. And Mayur Sir, I respect you that you have written a book on them and have told the people about who they really are because the media have always pointed out negative things only because for the views and other things. But sir I have to say I am little jealous with your protagonist.
June 10, 2023
The book has kept me wondering that whether such things do happen in reality. Are there really living being on other planets! Astral travel is a thing I've heard many times before. I know it is written as fantasy however the true believers in spirituality knows that there exists unknowns beyond normal human understandings. I wish to learn more about Aghori Sadhus, their lifestyle,the kriya they perform, how they attain Self- realization, Sadhus living for more than 5000 years, Different kriyas as mentioned in the book. I am speechless.
July 29, 2024
"Aghori: An Untold Story" by Mayur Kalbag offers a fascinating glimpse into the enigmatic world of the Aghori sect. Through vivid storytelling, Kalbag presents the mysticism and unconventional practices of these ascetics, blending elements of spirituality, adventure, and personal transformation. The narrative is gripping and informative, making it a compelling read for those curious about esoteric Indian traditions. While some readers might find the descriptions of rituals intense, the book is a unique exploration of a lesser-known aspect of Indian spirituality.
March 1, 2024
As a devotee of Mahadev, I have always been curious about the Aghoris. This book provides many details about them,but I am not sure of its authenticity.
February 25, 2022
I liked the book a lot. I myself has been very much interested in all the secrets that our tradition holds, which are usually not known or are never discussed in our everyday life. The book discusses a lot about the ways of life in which the Aghori Sadhus live, which is usually enshrouded in secret. I personally did not expect this much of information squeezed into such a small book. Now, having said that, the author in his preface mentions and I quote “I believe that it is completely up to the reader or a better word would be the ‘viewer’ to infer whether the story of Subbu and his journey with the Aghoris is fiction or reality!” This thing landed me in a dual mind, as I am not a person who reads fiction and I had purchased this book considering it to be his own experiences with the Aghoris (at least that is what I understood when I heard the author discussing about this book in general and about his experiences with Aghori Sadhus in one my favorite podcast). So, I will be reviewing this book in two ways‒ one considering it as a piece of fiction and another considering it as a reality.
FICTION‒ I really liked the story line. The way the story was flowing and the moments which the protagonist was experiencing right from the time he stepped on to the devbhumi of Uttarakhand. The subtle messaging and the thin connections between different moments in the story line were clearly joined to bring out a fabulous story at the end.
REALITY‒ I would still say the description of the events was too good. But what took me by surprise was the amount and the frequency of miracles or unexplained things that were happening around the protagonist. Somehow, it makes me think that does the everyday life of Aghoris could be so much in blend with miracles or so-called unexplained things? It could be so. This must be a miracle for people like us, at the same time it could very much be a normal thing for the Aghoris, as they know how exactly things work to make the particular thing happen, which we might feel as a miracle. But still, how much of such things could happen in one’s life in a given 24 hours? This made me feel that probably the author must have put in a bit of imagination to create few moments just to elevate the emotions in the reader, in a way to force them to believe in it. I could be wrong. I don’t know.
Whether it is a fiction or reality, I felt there were few things which author left, that could have been described in the last chapter, to make it more interesting. I cannot describe those things as I do not want the review to be a spoiler.
Lastly, one thing that kept annoying me while reading (though it does not matter much) is the number of editorial mistakes. At few places, it changes the meaning of the sentence or does not make any sense. Good thing is if read properly, one can identify the mistakes easily. I would request the author to take a note of these things in his future works.
I strongly recommend the book. It has definitely enlightened me and increased my desire to know more about the Aghori Sadhus and their way of life.
FICTION‒ I really liked the story line. The way the story was flowing and the moments which the protagonist was experiencing right from the time he stepped on to the devbhumi of Uttarakhand. The subtle messaging and the thin connections between different moments in the story line were clearly joined to bring out a fabulous story at the end.
REALITY‒ I would still say the description of the events was too good. But what took me by surprise was the amount and the frequency of miracles or unexplained things that were happening around the protagonist. Somehow, it makes me think that does the everyday life of Aghoris could be so much in blend with miracles or so-called unexplained things? It could be so. This must be a miracle for people like us, at the same time it could very much be a normal thing for the Aghoris, as they know how exactly things work to make the particular thing happen, which we might feel as a miracle. But still, how much of such things could happen in one’s life in a given 24 hours? This made me feel that probably the author must have put in a bit of imagination to create few moments just to elevate the emotions in the reader, in a way to force them to believe in it. I could be wrong. I don’t know.
Whether it is a fiction or reality, I felt there were few things which author left, that could have been described in the last chapter, to make it more interesting. I cannot describe those things as I do not want the review to be a spoiler.
Lastly, one thing that kept annoying me while reading (though it does not matter much) is the number of editorial mistakes. At few places, it changes the meaning of the sentence or does not make any sense. Good thing is if read properly, one can identify the mistakes easily. I would request the author to take a note of these things in his future works.
I strongly recommend the book. It has definitely enlightened me and increased my desire to know more about the Aghori Sadhus and their way of life.
April 10, 2022
The book is almost exactly the opposite of the Book, Aghora by Robert Svaboda. The perspective of the authors is storytelling about the ritual and processes of Aghori and maha-Aghori and explaining different rituals to attain powers(siddhis) and use of Ayurveda's knowledge to keep the body alive for hundreds of years and optimizing some processes to speed up the awakenings.
Some of the concepts of describe very simply, although they need years to attain and some concepts felt like fantasy, like Oxygen Secreting insects used for meditation underwater. The meditation under water process in Mansarovar lake is true, as the body gets too heated when doing intense meditation, but the liquid oxygen secreting which is also a highly poisonous insect felt like a fictional story.
Some of the concepts of describe very simply, although they need years to attain and some concepts felt like fantasy, like Oxygen Secreting insects used for meditation underwater. The meditation under water process in Mansarovar lake is true, as the body gets too heated when doing intense meditation, but the liquid oxygen secreting which is also a highly poisonous insect felt like a fictional story.
September 15, 2022
I gave this book a mere of 2 star because I was expecting true information and a true journey with the Aghori sadhus, but this book sucks if you are expecting non-fiction from this book.
The way of writing and engaging readers with this book is pretty good. I have no issue with all these. It's Author Mayur Kalbag really writes very well. But I was hoping this book to be true non-fiction, and the information to be 100% true.
But, as you read this book further you will realise that the author has made this book a fiction story book. You can surely know more about the Aghori sadhus, but you can't claim all the information to be true in this book.
I'll be happy if anyone who has read this book will dis-agree from me, and tell me their point of view.
The way of writing and engaging readers with this book is pretty good. I have no issue with all these. It's Author Mayur Kalbag really writes very well. But I was hoping this book to be true non-fiction, and the information to be 100% true.
But, as you read this book further you will realise that the author has made this book a fiction story book. You can surely know more about the Aghori sadhus, but you can't claim all the information to be true in this book.
I'll be happy if anyone who has read this book will dis-agree from me, and tell me their point of view.
November 29, 2021
Amazing book. A must read
The book is absolutely breathtaking. After reading the book I was in awe and could feel the journey of Subbu. To be honest I would feel all the emotions and at times was more excited than Subbu to listen to the response for the questions Subbu posed to the Aghori Baba's.
Absolutely breathtaking and interesting book which introduces us to a parallel world within our world. I can't stop imagining about what else can there be which we are so ignorant about.
The book is absolutely breathtaking. After reading the book I was in awe and could feel the journey of Subbu. To be honest I would feel all the emotions and at times was more excited than Subbu to listen to the response for the questions Subbu posed to the Aghori Baba's.
Absolutely breathtaking and interesting book which introduces us to a parallel world within our world. I can't stop imagining about what else can there be which we are so ignorant about.
November 29, 2021
Unreal, unbelievable, unrealistic
Picked it up coz of the catchy title and having met alot of aghories i was always curious to know more about them. But it seems to me that the author has resorted to fiction completely while narrating the story. The terms like fire floating in the air, practicing mediation below water for hours and the author including himself in the practice seems far beyond imagination. I agree they have powers but powers to travel to different planets is beyond me. Most of it seems unreal just a figment of imagination.
Picked it up coz of the catchy title and having met alot of aghories i was always curious to know more about them. But it seems to me that the author has resorted to fiction completely while narrating the story. The terms like fire floating in the air, practicing mediation below water for hours and the author including himself in the practice seems far beyond imagination. I agree they have powers but powers to travel to different planets is beyond me. Most of it seems unreal just a figment of imagination.
April 14, 2022
Don’t read, if you really want to know about Aghoris.
This book is fantasised fiction
This book is fantasised fiction
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2022
Ok, more anecdotal than a gripping saga
Ok, more anecdotal than a gripping saga. The author needs to master the art of story telling. A good read nonetheless.
Ok, more anecdotal than a gripping saga. The author needs to master the art of story telling. A good read nonetheless.
January 29, 2025
Themes & Insights
1. Self-Discovery & Transformation – The protagonist undergoes a personal transformation as he learns to detach from ego, desires, and fears.
2. Spiritual Enlightenment – The Aghori’s teachings challenge conventional perspectives on spirituality, pushing the protagonist toward a deeper understanding of life’s purpose.
3. Breaking Societal Norms – The book questions rigid societal beliefs, urging readers to think beyond conventional morality and embrace a broader perspective of existence.
4. Karma & Detachment – One of the core teachings in the book revolves around the law of karma and how detachment leads to liberation.
Strengths
• Engaging Narrative: The storytelling is immersive, blending mystical elements with real-world experiences.
• Philosophical Depth: The book is rich in spiritual wisdom, offering profound takeaways for readers interested in self-improvement and enlightenment.
• Simple yet Impactful Language: The language is accessible, making deep spiritual concepts easy to grasp.
Areas for Improvement
• Pacing: Some parts of the book may feel slow, especially for readers unfamiliar with spiritual discourse.
• Depth of Character Development: While the protagonist’s transformation is evident, secondary characters could have been explored in more detail.
Final Verdict
Aghori by Mayur Kalbhag is a thought-provoking and enlightening read for those interested in spirituality, self-discovery, and philosophical exploration. It serves as both a novel and a guide, encouraging readers to question their beliefs and embark on their own journey toward inner peace.
Recommended For: Readers interested in spirituality, Indian mysticism, and self-transformation.
This is a good narrative and provides a good insight on aghore sadhus. Personally I felt this is true narrative being on spiritual growth journey these fictitious looking events and characters can be true also in spiritual world
1. Self-Discovery & Transformation – The protagonist undergoes a personal transformation as he learns to detach from ego, desires, and fears.
2. Spiritual Enlightenment – The Aghori’s teachings challenge conventional perspectives on spirituality, pushing the protagonist toward a deeper understanding of life’s purpose.
3. Breaking Societal Norms – The book questions rigid societal beliefs, urging readers to think beyond conventional morality and embrace a broader perspective of existence.
4. Karma & Detachment – One of the core teachings in the book revolves around the law of karma and how detachment leads to liberation.
Strengths
• Engaging Narrative: The storytelling is immersive, blending mystical elements with real-world experiences.
• Philosophical Depth: The book is rich in spiritual wisdom, offering profound takeaways for readers interested in self-improvement and enlightenment.
• Simple yet Impactful Language: The language is accessible, making deep spiritual concepts easy to grasp.
Areas for Improvement
• Pacing: Some parts of the book may feel slow, especially for readers unfamiliar with spiritual discourse.
• Depth of Character Development: While the protagonist’s transformation is evident, secondary characters could have been explored in more detail.
Final Verdict
Aghori by Mayur Kalbhag is a thought-provoking and enlightening read for those interested in spirituality, self-discovery, and philosophical exploration. It serves as both a novel and a guide, encouraging readers to question their beliefs and embark on their own journey toward inner peace.
Recommended For: Readers interested in spirituality, Indian mysticism, and self-transformation.
This is a good narrative and provides a good insight on aghore sadhus. Personally I felt this is true narrative being on spiritual growth journey these fictitious looking events and characters can be true also in spiritual world
May 25, 2025
Well, I didn’t enjoy this book. The writing is very straightforward and almost too much so. The story moves in a single direction without much complexity or tension. It felt more like non-fiction than fiction, which might explain why I couldn’t connect with it. And maybe that’s the point. perhaps this is the story of the author himself, which would make sense given its autobiographical tone. But that also makes it harder to critique, because the intent may not have been storytelling in the traditional sense.
Still, as a reader, I found very little to hold on to. The protagonist is open and trusting, but emotionally distant. He experiences remarkable things, yet shows bleh reaction to them. That lack of internal journey made it difficult for me to relate or stay invested.While the theme has potential, especially given the subject of aghoris, the execution didn’t quite resonate with me.
I had expected mysticism that would evoke a sense of awe, maybe even unease. But those elements didn’t come through. I’m also not sure why the protagonist was drawn to aghoris in the first place. A deeper look into his life or inner world could have helped build that connection.
This is also a reminder of why I’m not generally drawn to non-fiction. And this book, even if classified as fiction, reads very much like a personal reflection or travelogue with spiritual overtones.
The book doesn’t offer enough context or background for someone unfamiliar with aghoris. The mystical aspects felt surface-level, and the emotional arc of the character was missing. That said, one part did stand out: the idea of aghoris existing on other planets. That section was genuinely interesting and imaginative, but it was the only part that captured my attention but only lasted for about 2 pages.
In the end, I think it’s simply meant for a different kind of reader. It wasn’t for me.
Still, as a reader, I found very little to hold on to. The protagonist is open and trusting, but emotionally distant. He experiences remarkable things, yet shows bleh reaction to them. That lack of internal journey made it difficult for me to relate or stay invested.While the theme has potential, especially given the subject of aghoris, the execution didn’t quite resonate with me.
I had expected mysticism that would evoke a sense of awe, maybe even unease. But those elements didn’t come through. I’m also not sure why the protagonist was drawn to aghoris in the first place. A deeper look into his life or inner world could have helped build that connection.
This is also a reminder of why I’m not generally drawn to non-fiction. And this book, even if classified as fiction, reads very much like a personal reflection or travelogue with spiritual overtones.
The book doesn’t offer enough context or background for someone unfamiliar with aghoris. The mystical aspects felt surface-level, and the emotional arc of the character was missing. That said, one part did stand out: the idea of aghoris existing on other planets. That section was genuinely interesting and imaginative, but it was the only part that captured my attention but only lasted for about 2 pages.
In the end, I think it’s simply meant for a different kind of reader. It wasn’t for me.
March 6, 2024
If you've ever been curious about the matted-hair Sadhus at religious places, smeared with ashes on their bodies, then this book provides all the information you need. Mayur, through an autobiographical account narrated by the protagonist Subbu, attempts to dispel misconceptions behind the ascetic sect of Sadhus, particularly the famously misunderstood Aghoris, who often evoke fear in the public.
Mayur weaves a tale about Subbu's journey amidst the Aghori Sadhus and his mindbending experiences. The Aghoris equip him with enough knowledge to write a book revealing the truth about them. The narrative unfolds with ethereal, spiritual, and supernatural instances, fostering a belief in the unknown and the existence of numerous mysteries waiting to be discovered.
Aghori Babas are a unique type of yogis who follow an alternate path to attain enlightenment, dedicated to Lord Shiva. They employ unconventional methods to achieve Moksha - freedom from the circle of life, and are highly enlightened beings. The high MahaAghoris possess the ability to meditate under lakes for months, attaining pure bliss. They lead reclusive lives in caves, mountains, and sometimes cremation grounds, maintaining an outwardly fierce demeanor to avoid disturbance during meditation.
This book has left an indelible mark on me, expanding my mind to possibilities beyond human perception. It instills a belief in the impossible and the realization of a higher being at play. It is essential reading for those seeking insights into the secrets of the occult and hibernation meditation.
Mayur is currently working on a sequel, part of a 2-book deal with Penguin, and I eagerly anticipate learning more.
Mayur weaves a tale about Subbu's journey amidst the Aghori Sadhus and his mindbending experiences. The Aghoris equip him with enough knowledge to write a book revealing the truth about them. The narrative unfolds with ethereal, spiritual, and supernatural instances, fostering a belief in the unknown and the existence of numerous mysteries waiting to be discovered.
Aghori Babas are a unique type of yogis who follow an alternate path to attain enlightenment, dedicated to Lord Shiva. They employ unconventional methods to achieve Moksha - freedom from the circle of life, and are highly enlightened beings. The high MahaAghoris possess the ability to meditate under lakes for months, attaining pure bliss. They lead reclusive lives in caves, mountains, and sometimes cremation grounds, maintaining an outwardly fierce demeanor to avoid disturbance during meditation.
This book has left an indelible mark on me, expanding my mind to possibilities beyond human perception. It instills a belief in the impossible and the realization of a higher being at play. It is essential reading for those seeking insights into the secrets of the occult and hibernation meditation.
Mayur is currently working on a sequel, part of a 2-book deal with Penguin, and I eagerly anticipate learning more.
June 7, 2023
The book is a unique exploration of the mystical world of Aghori Sadhus and their practices, which many of us find incomprehensible. However, the author has done a fantastic job of demystifying this world, bringing to light their philosophies, beliefs, and practices. The reader is taken deep into the journey of Subbu, a young man who embarks on an adventure to unravel the secrets of the Aghoris.
The narrative is gripping and immersive, and the author has managed to capture the essence of the various places, especially the Himalayas, that Subbu visits with vivid descriptions that transport the reader to these locations. The book is much more than just a story; it is a profound journey of self-discovery, where Subbu questions his own beliefs and assumptions, as he encounters mystics, tantriks, and babas.
But what makes this book stand out is the way the author has presented the Aghoris. Instead of seeing them in a negative light, as many people do, the author presents them as complex human beings with their own set of beliefs and practices. They are not portrayed as perfect or flawless, but they have their own unique approach towards spirituality which they prefer to practice and retain within the Aghori community only. Hence, to a commoner, they appear scary and intimidating as they strive to keep the purity of their penance intact this way.
If you are curious about the Aghoris or are interested in the spiritual/mystical world, this book is a must-read. It is an unconventional journey that will leave you with a lot to ponder over. Highly recommended!
The narrative is gripping and immersive, and the author has managed to capture the essence of the various places, especially the Himalayas, that Subbu visits with vivid descriptions that transport the reader to these locations. The book is much more than just a story; it is a profound journey of self-discovery, where Subbu questions his own beliefs and assumptions, as he encounters mystics, tantriks, and babas.
But what makes this book stand out is the way the author has presented the Aghoris. Instead of seeing them in a negative light, as many people do, the author presents them as complex human beings with their own set of beliefs and practices. They are not portrayed as perfect or flawless, but they have their own unique approach towards spirituality which they prefer to practice and retain within the Aghori community only. Hence, to a commoner, they appear scary and intimidating as they strive to keep the purity of their penance intact this way.
If you are curious about the Aghoris or are interested in the spiritual/mystical world, this book is a must-read. It is an unconventional journey that will leave you with a lot to ponder over. Highly recommended!
April 28, 2025
'Aulaakh Niranjan'
Book: Aghori-An Untold Story
Author: Mayur Kalbag
Genre: Fiction( Mysticism)
Published by @penguinindia
#plot
Subbu was very keen to know more about the Aghori siddhi. He gets an opportunity when his guru sends him to the himalayas to bring some mantras from the Aghoris. Getting the mantras required Subbu to perform some practices and rituals with the help of Aghori Sadhus and all this while, while staying with Aghoris, Subbu learns a lot about their lifestyle.
#bookreview
Aghori: An Untold Story through the eyes of its protagonist, Subbu explores the often misunderstood life and practices of Aghori sadhus.
Aghori Baba's have this mysterious side to them which makes one scary from what we hear about them. But this book gives a fresh perspective on who they truly are.
The starting of the book had me totally immersed in it. Narrated from first person pov the book attempts to create a personal experience. Its a mix of adventure, Spirituality, thriller. The book is fast paced and it was good knowing about the world of Aghori Sadhus. It was thought provoking and the book had many eerie moments but most of them seemed unreal. And hence the later part of the book became less interesting. It was totally unbelievable. And one may not make out what is true and what not. Even the Protagonist's reaction to such situations appeared very barren. So while the starting looked promising the later half of the book didn't live upto my expectations.
Book: Aghori-An Untold Story
Author: Mayur Kalbag
Genre: Fiction( Mysticism)
Published by @penguinindia
#plot
Subbu was very keen to know more about the Aghori siddhi. He gets an opportunity when his guru sends him to the himalayas to bring some mantras from the Aghoris. Getting the mantras required Subbu to perform some practices and rituals with the help of Aghori Sadhus and all this while, while staying with Aghoris, Subbu learns a lot about their lifestyle.
#bookreview
Aghori: An Untold Story through the eyes of its protagonist, Subbu explores the often misunderstood life and practices of Aghori sadhus.
Aghori Baba's have this mysterious side to them which makes one scary from what we hear about them. But this book gives a fresh perspective on who they truly are.
The starting of the book had me totally immersed in it. Narrated from first person pov the book attempts to create a personal experience. Its a mix of adventure, Spirituality, thriller. The book is fast paced and it was good knowing about the world of Aghori Sadhus. It was thought provoking and the book had many eerie moments but most of them seemed unreal. And hence the later part of the book became less interesting. It was totally unbelievable. And one may not make out what is true and what not. Even the Protagonist's reaction to such situations appeared very barren. So while the starting looked promising the later half of the book didn't live upto my expectations.
June 28, 2024
Extremely fast paced. Has a simple storyline. However, to me, it seems very hastily written. People who want something actually immersive or well articulated might find this annoying or even frustrating to read. There's plenty of grammatical errors - missing words, wrong syntax, etc. Even the dialogues feel forced at times. The main character is extremely two-dimensional, with not much to offer. The other characters also seem to revolve around him. This is a work of fiction, no doubt. And if the author wanted us to take it as real, then it's hardly believable. That being said, I think it's an easy light-hearted read. Something that you can read if you are curious about the lives of the Aghori Sadhus. It's good for occupying your time during lazy afternoons. At times, the writing seemed so plain and boring that it was hard to pay attention. In a way, if what you are looking for is a simple, easy read that won't feel too intellectual, then this is well enough. Very story-like, as we normally narrate stories to our friends or children. Adults, or voracious readers, no matter how open minded and accomodating they are, might find the writing and editing careless.
October 9, 2024
Short Take: Fascinating, unbelievable, challenging to accept
Aghori story told by Subbu (Subraiah Iyer) was something of a read. While my mind questions my ability to believe the reality of it, my heart is fascinated with the world that is shown to me. It is a Dr.Strange experience of meta physical and a challenge to question the boundaries we place on the mind. For the open minded, it surely is an experience. For those who firmly shutdown after the first hint of supernatural or metaphysical, this is a tryst of some sorts.
For me, I am not sure if I believe everything that is written, because, if it is indeed true, then I am jealous.. If it is not true, then I am content reading the beauty of imagination of the author and explaining the inexplicable aspects in a logical way, albeit in an avengerist way.
I do believe in the Aghori sect, I do believe in Lord Shiva. So , perhaps, I will believe that this is indeed true. Aulaakh Niranjan!
Aghori story told by Subbu (Subraiah Iyer) was something of a read. While my mind questions my ability to believe the reality of it, my heart is fascinated with the world that is shown to me. It is a Dr.Strange experience of meta physical and a challenge to question the boundaries we place on the mind. For the open minded, it surely is an experience. For those who firmly shutdown after the first hint of supernatural or metaphysical, this is a tryst of some sorts.
For me, I am not sure if I believe everything that is written, because, if it is indeed true, then I am jealous.. If it is not true, then I am content reading the beauty of imagination of the author and explaining the inexplicable aspects in a logical way, albeit in an avengerist way.
I do believe in the Aghori sect, I do believe in Lord Shiva. So , perhaps, I will believe that this is indeed true. Aulaakh Niranjan!
February 3, 2025
The Aghori path to spiritual salvation is unconventional and extreme and is something that we don’t understand. May be that’s the reason we perceive it as fearsome and bizarre. As a person who is completely naïve, I read this book with an intent to understand the practices followed by the Aghori babas and their way of living. There are so many concepts and rituals that have been discussed in the book and honestly, I want to believe all of it but few incidents are so baffling, I don’t know whether to accept or reject those thesis. One such is travelling extraterrestrial. I also felt that the protagonist has an extremely easy access to everything possibly due to his Guru. Coming to the book in general, the struggle with language is evident, phrases are continuously repeated (like ‘having said that’ and ‘feeling excited’ and so on) and proper proof reading was missing…a bit lackadaisical approach. In general, I liked what I read since I have no benchmark to compare to.
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