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. This festival brings ascetics and akharas, scholars and devotees from far and wide for the performance of various rituals and spiritual endeavors. 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.
