Shamshan sadhana
Shamshan sadhana (श्मशान साधना) is a Tantric spiritual practice performed in a **cremation ground** (shamshan/shmashaan), typically after midnight in complete darkness. It is most prominently practiced by **Aghoris** but also exists in other Tantric traditions, especially in eastern India (Bengal, Assam, eastern Bihar, Odisha). ### Key Characteristics | Aspect | Details | |--------|---------| | **Timing** | After midnight (आधी रात बाद), during ghora andakara (extreme darkness) [2] | | **Types** | Three types: (1) Shamshan Sadhana, (2) Shiv Sadhana, (3) **Shava Sadhana** (most difficult—sitting on a burning corpse) | | **Days for practice** | Ashtami, Chaturdashi, Amavasya, Purnima, Saturday (Shaniwar), Tuesday (Mangalwar) | | **Best combination** | When Purnima/Amavasya falls on Saturday/Tuesday | | **Offerings** | Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian bhog are permitted | ### Ritual Procedure (for ordinary practitioners) 1. **Preparation**: Seek permission from Guru, Ganesh Ba...