| 27. Tapas Pashupatinath, Kathmandu, Nepal |
A khareshwari sadhu abides by his tapa or bodily torture by standing on one leg on the east side of Pashupatinath in Mrigasthali. The idea of tapa is to torment the flesh as it is considered as a hurdle in the path of meditation and attainment of moksha (liberation). It is also regarded that for purifying oneself bodily pleasure should be renounced. An ascetic endeavors by means of tapas to break the fetters which bind him to earthly existence and to secure bliss and ultimate rest. Penance is also necessary to dispel the illusion which affects an ascetic and leads him astray. |