The world’s largest religious festival begins in India

Millions of people gather in the northern Indian city of Prayagraj in the state of Uttar Pradesh to participate in the Mahakumbh Melathe greatest gathering of humanity in the world.

Devout Hindus from all over the world came here (and continue to do so) over the course of six weeks to take a holy dip in the Sangam – the confluence of India’s holiest river Ganges with the Yamuna River and the mythical Saraswati.

Hindus believe that taking a dip in the holy water cleanses people of sins.

The authorities have set up a sprawling tent city spread over 4,000 hectares of open land along the banks of the rivers to welcome visitors, who arrive at the grounds in large colorful processions, singing and dancing along the way.

Photojournalist Ankit Srinivas brings you some views from the festival: