Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Travel
Maha Aghori

At Manikarnika Ghat, the sacred cremation site in Varanasi, a maha Aghori ascetic walks barefoot across glowing embers. Smoke rises, blending with the flickering flames, as the backdrop reveals ancient steps, burning pyres, and the timeless aura of spiritual transcendence.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 12.2023
Date Uploaded: 12.2024
Photo Location: Varanasi, India
Copyright: © Arun Kumar Nalimela