What Is Dakshinachara?

Tantra

The term Dakshinachara (Right-Hand Path) is a technical term used to refer to Tantric sects that do not engage in these heterodox practices. In contrast, Vamachara (Left-Hand Path) is used to describe particular tantric practices that are considered heterodox according to usual Hindu social norms.

Etymology

Dakshin a mans "right". For this reason, the term Dakshinachara is often translated "Right-hand practice".

Practices

The Brahma Yamala, a Tantric text, says there are three currents of tradition (dakshina, vama, and madhyama) characterized respectively by the predominance of each of the three gunas (sattva, rajas, and tamas). According to this text, dakshina is characterized by sattva, and is pure; vama, characterized by rajas, is mixed; and madhyama, characterized by tamas, is impure. The Tantras of each class follow a particular line of spiritual practices. Dakshinachara consists of traditional Hindu practices such as asceticism and meditation.

Ritualized sex is not a common practice within Tantra Yoga schools. Most Tantra Yoga practitioners follow the Dakshinachara path. This is a deeply spiritual form of Yoga where deities, such as Shiva, are worshipped. Tantra Yoga is an integration of Bhakti Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Mantra Yoga, and Yantra Yoga. The Tantric who follows the Dakshinachara path is usually a good example of tolerance and lives a constructive life.