Thousands of Hindu devotees gathered in Prayagraj, in India’s Uttar Pradesh state, to take a holy dip at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers, during the Magh Mela festival.
The ritual, held on Makar Sankranti, saw pilgrims praying, lighting clay oil lamps and scooping river water as part of traditional rites.
Hindus believe bathing at the confluence cleanses sins and brings spiritual liberation. Security was stepped up along the riverbanks.