Hindus see god as fire or “in” the fire. During prayers and washing in the river, seekers offer fire to their gods. Early in the morning, seekers come to the Shipra River for a “spiritual cleansing.” The river is busy with people twenty-four hours a day. Millions of Indians stream into the holy city of Ujjain in search of spiritual cleansing. They’re participating in the Kumbh Mela, an ancient Hindu festival. Throngs of pilgrims, gurus, hermits, and holy men press in to bathe in the sacred Shipra River, which flows from the Ganges. They believe a holy dip in the waters will wash away their sins and purify their hearts.
