Gorakhnath and the Kanphata Yogis c5.58

c5.58

A legend is available, explaining the use of rhinoceros horn, which accounts for the practice, not because the rings are not easily broken, but for the reason that the rhinoceros is a sacred animal. The story is as follows: As a result of the great war between the Pāṇḍavas and the Kāuravas (the ancient war which is the central theme of the *Mahābhārata*) the Pāṇḍavas, having slain their kinsmen, a most heinous sin, were thereby disqualified from performing the funeral rites for them. They appealed to Brahmā for absolution. In reply, the Creator commanded: ‘First make the pilgrimage to Badrināth and Kedārnāth.’ The Pāṇḍavas straightway set off upon the journey. Returning from the Himālayas, they reported to Brahmā and then again asked for permission to perform the funeral rites for their slain kinsmen (ancestors). Brahmā gave instructions: ‘Kill a rhinoceros, make a vessel of its skin, and with that offer water to your relatives. They will receive the oblation and then will be able to proceed to Paradise.’ So the Pāṇḍavas slew a rhinoceros, made a vessel of its skin and from it poured out water to their kinsmen. The piṇḍa was then offered (i.e. the funeral rites were performed) and the slain relatives attained Paradise. Since that time the rhinoceros has been considered a sacred animal, and that is why the Gorakhnāthīs make their ear-rings from its horn.¹