Gorakhnath, or Gorakshanatha (Hindu yogi)

Main article: Gorakhnath

Hindu master yogi, commonly regarded as the founder of the Kanphata yogis, an order of ascetics that stresses the physical and spiritual disciplines of Hatha Yoga. Hatha Yoga is a school of Indian philosophy that teaches that mastery of the body is the means to spiritual perfection.

association with Matsyendranatha

...according to one legend, to enchantments of two queens of Ceylon and had two sons, Parosenath and Nimnath, who were leaders of the Jaina religious sect. His leading disciple, Gorakhnath, is commonly regarded as the founder of the Kanphata Yogis, an order of religious ascetics who stress the practice of Hatha Yoga.

development of Saivism

Shaivism underwent significant growth in northern India. In the 13th century Gorakhnath (also known as Gorakshanatha), who became leader of a sect of Shaivite ascetics known as Nathas (“Lords”) from the title of their chief teachers, introduced new ideas and practices to Shaivism. The Gorakhnathis were particularly important as propagators of Hatha Yoga, a form of Yoga that requires...

influence on Kanphata Yogi

...sannyasins (ascetics), because of their emphasis on the acquiring of supernatural powers in contrast to more orthodox practices of devotion and meditation. They are followers of Gorakhnath (Goraksanatha), who is said to have lived in the 12th century or even earlier, and are also known by the name Gorakhnathis or Nathapanthis. The...

shrine in Gurkha

town, central Nepal. It is located on a hill overlooking the Himalayas. The town is famous for its shrine of Gorakhnath, the patron saint of the region. There is also a temple to the Hindu goddess Bhavani (Devi).