'I have been standing for seven years': 26-year-old sadhu at Magh Mela says he rests, sleeps in upright position

Visuals from Magh Mela (Representative image)

At the sprawling grounds of the Magh Mela, where faith, austerity and ritual converge, a young ascetic has become a point of curiosity for visitors and pilgrims alike. Shankarpuri, a 26-year-old sadhu from Bihar’s Sitamarhi district, claims he has not sat or slept lying down for the past seven years, following an intense personal vow.

Throughout the religious gathering, Shankarpuri has been seen standing on one foot without interruption, relying on a wooden structure to support his head, even while resting. He says he carries out every aspect of daily life while remaining upright, including eating and performing religious practices.

“I belong to Naimisharanya, where it is believed that 88,000 sages reside. I was born there and also have an ashram established at that sacred site,” Shankarpuri told PTI Videos. Describing the origin of his vow, he said, “From that land, a thought came to my mind that I should keep standing. I have been a saint since the age of six.”

When asked if he ever sits or lies down, the ascetic replied, “I have been standing for seven years.” He explained that he sleeps while standing by resting his head on a wooden, cradle-like support. “Food, water and all daily routines are done in the same posture,” he added.

For generations, the Magh Mela has provided a space for ascetics to demonstrate demanding forms of spiritual discipline, often marked by extreme physical endurance. Such displays of penance continue to draw attention from devotees and spiritual seekers attending the annual congregation.

The 44-day Magh Mela, which commenced on January 3, will continue until February 15, during which lakhs of devotees are expected to arrive to take holy dips at the Sangam.