AI PANTH, one of the twelve sects of yogis, whose adherents worship Ai Bhavani, a tribal female deity, believed to be an extension of Sakti. Siva in the form of ardhanarisvara is said to have two forms represented by his own halves. His right side is the male whose followers are called daksinacharis, whereas his left portion represents the female known as Sakti, the basic power also called Amba, Durga, Kali or Bhavani. Worshippers of the female aspect of Siva are called vamamargis, known for their peculiar beliefs and customs. They accept no taboos in the matter of food and accord religious sanction to sexual freedom.
AJAIB, BHAI, a Sangha Jatt who embraced the Sikh faith in the time of Guru Arjan. He belonged to the village of Darauli Bhai, in presentday Faridkot district. Two of his brothers, Umar Shah and Ajab, were the Guru`s masands or vicars. Bhai Ajaib took part in seva, voluntary labour of hands, at the time of digging of the Amritsar pool and construction of the Harimandar. See AJAB, BHAI
DHINGA, BHAI, a barber by profession, became a follower of Guru Nanak. He once came to Guru Arigad, Nanak II (1502-52), and sought instruction. The latter advised him to emulate Sain, famous saint who too was a barber by profession and who had gained spiritual enlightenment by his loving devotion to the Deity.
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