Democracy in Akhadas: How they elect religious chiefs and manage affairs 

The management and administration of Akhadas is overseen by an elected body. Each Akhada elect their executive council during Kumbh congregation.

The death of Mahant Narendra Giri of Prayagraj-based Baghambari Math of Niranjani Akhada has revived the debate on how Akhadas manage their affairs. They call themselves the custodians of the Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism). It has been a matter of curiosity that how these Akhadas fit into the Hindu religion system, what their hierarchy is and how they choose their leaders or chiefs of different religious bodies.

Their structure is primarily based on the Sanatana Dharma tradition of Sant, Samyasi and Vairagya that could be traced to the times of Siddhas and Nathas (mystic yogis of ancient India). However, the tradition of Akhadas began during the time of Jagadguru Shankaracharya in the eighth century.