Shaivism and other Sects: Diverse Paths in Hindu Theology

• They adhere to the teachings of Gorakhnath and Matseyndranath and worship Adinath, a form of Shiva.
• They use the technique of Hatha Yoga; monks wear loin cloth and dhotis and also cover themselves with ashes.
• They never stay in the same place for long and are a floating group of wanderers. When they stop walking, they keep a sacred fire called Dhuni.
• It is also known as Siddha Siddanta.

• It is a distinct Shaivite tradition that believes in monotheism through worship of Lord Shiva in the form of Linga.
• It was established in the 12th century AD by Basava.
• It rejects the authority of the Vedas and the caste system.
• It is also known as Veerashaivism.
• They questioned the theory of rebirth [UPSC 2016].

 Sanyasis

• They are the devotees of Shiva manifested as Bhairava.
• They are monists who seek salvation from the cycle of reincarnation through sadhana on cremation grounds.
• They believe in the removal of bonds from their life, which are sensual pleasure, anger, greed, obsession, fear and hatred.
• They indulge in extreme tamasic ritual practices. 

Siddhas

• Siddhars were Saints, doctors, alchemists and mystics all in one from Tamilnadu.
• They attain spiritual perfection through special secret rasayanas along with a form of pranayama which considerably reduces the number of breaths they take.
• Siddhars are also believed to be the founders of Varmam, which is a martial art for self-defence and a medical treatment at the same time.
• They were monotheistic and condemned idolatry. [UPSC 2016]