~~OM~~

There are sixteen initiations which a sadhu can take. They are:

1. Guru Mantra
2. Japa Mala
3. Loin Cloth
4. Yantra
5. Puja Paddhoti (system of worship)
6. Yajna Paddhoti (system of fire worship)
7. Shastra (particular scripture)
8. Sampradaya (particular tribe of sadhus)
9. Asana (particular posture for sitting)
10. Kavacha (amulet and/or series of mantras to protect your inner vibration)
11. Swami (initiation as a teacher)
12. Danda or Chempta (a staff or fire tongs) a symbol of dedication to dharma or fire ceremonies
13. Sant (a teacher of teachers)
14. Mahanta (the head of an ashram)
15. Mandaleshwar (the head of a series of ashrams)
16. Sannyas (who is established in truth and free to roam and teach any where. Traditionally his being is his teaching.)