Transformation

Most people in the world were not in India attending this year’s Kumbh Mela on January 14, 2025. But for the millions of Hindu pilgrims drawn by the six-week religious gathering that is held every 12 years at the convergence of the Yamuna and Ganges rivers, it is a seminal happening. Immersing themselves in the holy water, having approached on vessels or crossing vast landscapes on foot, they seek to wash away life’s impurities.

Gathered on the shore and walking on temporary pontoon bridges, the sight when I visited in 2001 was astonishing. On this day and in the following weeks, I knew northern India’s Prayagraj city would be filled with people liberating their souls from the cycle of life and death and finding Hindu salvation in physical and spiritual purification.

A realization struck me then—and reverberates now: At the end of February, having honored the mythological story of gods and demons fighting over a Kumbh (a pitcher) of nectar, people will disperse. The crowded streets and river shores will return to normal levels of occupation. Moments of revelation and rejuvenation will become memories.

Looking at this limited edition print on my wall. I remind myself never to forget the day the image was made. I cherish the healing properties of water, the transformative power of belief, the grace on display when fighting ceases and people join in collective, reverential action. Hold hope, I say to all who look, listen, and believe in peace.