Watch Spirit of the Earth - Sadhus of India

Spirit of the Earth - Sadhus of India is a captivating documentary that takes us on a journey through India to explore the lives, beliefs, and practices of the ancient sect of Hindu holy men, known as the Sadhus. The film is directed by Ben Holt and is shot entirely on location in India. The documentary opens with stunning footage of India's landscapes, from the bustling streets of Mumbai to the serene riverbanks of Haridwar, a city in the Northern state of Uttarakhand, considered a sacred place by Hindus since ancient times. The film's breathtaking visuals set the tone for an immersive experience that takes us through a diverse range of locations and scenes throughout India.

The documentary focuses on the life of the Sadhus, a group of ascetic Hindu men who have chosen to renounce all worldly pleasures and dedicate their lives to spiritual practice. The Sadhus are revered in India, and people seek their blessings for good fortune, health, and peace of mind. The film provides remarkable insight into the daily life and philosophy of these men.

The film features some of the most renowned Sadhus in India, such as Swami Nalinanand Giri, who is considered to be one of the most revered spiritual masters in India. We see him leading his daily routine, practicing yoga, and spending time in silent contemplation, offering us a glimpse into his wisdom and spirituality. He credits his 50-year-long Sadhu life to the blessings of his Guru and the unwavering faith in the divine.

The documentary also introduces us to lesser-known Sadhus and yogis who have spent years in conceited penance and austere practices, living a life of utter simplicity, devotion, and selflessness. They speak about their spiritual enlightenment, their challenging beginnings, their dedication, and the secrets they have found toward happiness and purposeful living.

One of these Sadhus is Baba Ram Singh Ji, a 90-year-old man who has been living on the banks of the river Ganges for over 60 years. His philosophy is based on the belief that everything is Maya (an illusion), and the only reality is the divine. He shares his journey, the teachings of his Guru and the lessons he has learned in his long life.

Spirit of the Earth - Sadhus of India takes us through several significant religious events in India, such as the Kumbh Mela, a gathering of Sadhus, and other pilgrims from all over India, which is regarded as the world's largest spiritual gathering. We are given an insight into the rituals and ceremonies, which are fascinatingly ancient.

Throughout the film, we witness the Sadhus performing feats of asceticism that seem almost otherworldly. They engage in incredible feats, such as standing on one leg for months on end, meditating while being buried alive, walking on fire or laying on a bed of nails. The documentary provides a glimpse into the limits of human will and the transcendent potential of the human spirit.

The film also explores India's diverse cultures, customs, and beliefs represented by the Sadhus interviewed. We are introduced to a wide range of subjects, personalities and locations. Some of these staunch Yogis have left their comfortable western homes behind to trek through the remote Himalayas to get to their destiny. They chose to live with only the bare minimum and reach self-realization through yoga, meditation and the grace of their guru.

In conclusion, the documentary is a wonderfully crafted tribute to the ancient civilizations of India and their spiritual traditions. It showcases the incredible self-discipline, devotion, and otherworldliness of the Sadhus, who have dedicated their lives to becoming one with the divine. The story told through the documentary is inspiring, and it shines a light on the power of faith, community, and a profound sense of spirituality that we could all aspire to. Spirit of the Earth - Sadhus of India is an unforgettable experience that provides an unfiltered look into a world that is both deeply spiritual and deeply human.