Millions take the plunge at India's religious mega festivalMore than 30 million devotees were expected to immerse themselves at the confluence of three rivers - the Ganges, the Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. Hindus believe that bathing in the sacred rivers cleanses them of sin and Monday's Mauni Amavasya Snan -- the "no moon day" -- is considered the holiest of the gigantic 48-day festival that runs until March 4. Special skimmer boats collected waste from the surface of the rivers and more than 40,000 temporary toilets have been installed. Devotees meditate on the banks of the rivers after the dip and collect Ganges water in cans to take home. According to Hindu mythology, gods and demons fought a war over a sacred pitcher, or kumbh, containing the nectar of immortality.

Source: Standard Digital February 04, 2019 21:11 UTC