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 Mahakumbh Melathe largest human gathering in the world.

Devout Hindus from all parts of the world have come here (and will continue to do so) during the six weeks to immerse themselves in the Sangam – the confluence of India’s most sacred river the Ganges with the Yamuna and the legendary Saraswati.

Hindus believe that immersion in holy water cleanses people of their sins.

The authorities have built a tent city spread over 4,000 hectares of open land along the banks of the rivers to accommodate visitors, who arrive at the grounds in a huge colorful procession, singing and dancing along the way.

Photographer Ankit Srinivas brings you some highlights from the festival: