ABSTRACT
A Brahmáchárí, after spending ten years of devotion in an Ákhá _ra, can return home, burn his sacred thread, and swallow the ashes, after which he may assume the garb of a Da]n]di. If during another period of ten years he has complied with all the requirements of the grade, he becomes a Paramhansa, and must remain seated for twelve years in one position without asking charity, or accepting viands, but those voluntarily offered.
