The main day of the Maha Kumbh Mela...

A main day early morning procession. Out of the cold dark mist the monks wait to catch a glimpse of what may be the most important sunrise of their lives. Many are waiting, patiently, for the exact hour when the planets are aligned and the sacred procession can begin. To avoid the danger of crowding, each ashram is given a specific position in the long line, that may stretch out a couple of miles from end to end. Slowly, the whole procession begins, first the front of the line moves, then the middle and finally the end bebins to move with a life of it's own, as some monks pull carts carrying their teachers or Gurus.
 
The sun joins in with its rays to illuminate the beauty of the moment. These monks are full of enthusiam as they finaly approach the holy river Ganges. These are nagababas, monks from a very ancient practice that believe in having no material possessions. They are often supported by their community, with mostly donated food. It is said that the blessings of such monks will contribute to the good karma of the giver. They take joy in the very simple life of meditation and prayer, they worship Shiva. They look as happy as they could be, having just completed many days of intense rituals, planning for this very special moment. Just once in twelve years, in this exact place where the rivers meet, all these monks come together to bath in the nectar of imortality. After the monks have bathed, then the public is allowed a chance to bath at the sangam. Families and seekers all feel the magic of this gigantic karma that has been a heavy burden to these pilgrims.