The 'bearer of skull-bowl', referring to the ancient worshippers of 'Bhairav' (the fierce form of Shiva). According to ancient mythology, Bhairav cut off one of the heads of 'Brahma' (the creator), and as penance became an outcaste. Unable to detach himself from the skull, it became his begging bowl. Kapalikas are derived from the 'Pashupati' ('master of animals') order and are known for being ferocious fighters and often carrying out human sacrifices/cannibalism (victims hailing from the Brahmin (priest) caste) and self-mutilation. Their modern timid descendants are the 'Aghori' Sadhus.

Related to the Kalamukhas ('black face') sadhus of Southern India.

Also see 'Aghori', 'Bhairav', 'Mahakal', 'Kalamukha', 'Pashupati', 'Rudra', 'Shiva'.