Dhanrajgirs: The Monks Who Became Bankers
BOOKMARK
The photo of a Naga Sanyasi is the most stereotypical image you will come across in any story, essay or documentary on the famed Kumbh Mela.
But while these sansyasis make a spectacular visual statement, few realise how old and widespread this tradition is, or even how economically and militarily powerful these monks were . There was a time when kings turned to them for help and over time these sanyasis adopted different roles as monks, warriors and finally as bankers! You’d be amazed to learn about people who trace their origins to the Naga Sanyasis. They include a top business leader, fashion models and an ex-Miss India!