The Magh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, held at the sacred Triveni Sangam—the confluence of the rivers Ganga, Yamuna and the legendary Saraswati—is one of India’s largest religious pilgrimages. Each year, it draws sadhus who represent centuries-old traditions of renunciation and spiritual discipline to the holy banks of the Sangam. Alongside ash-covered ascetics sitting in silent meditation, the Mela also presents striking modern contrasts. Some sadhus now arrive in luxury cars, accompanied by followers and supported by contemporary comforts, reflecting the changing face of an ancient spiritual gathering. PICS/PTI

Magh Mela, the 44-day religious fair, began on January 3 and will conclude on February 15, with lakhs of devotees expected to take ritual dips at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. For centuries, the Magh Mela has served as a platform where ascetics display diverse and often extreme forms of penance and spiritual discipline, attracting pilgrims and seekers from across the country. Here are glimpses from the religious event (Pics/PTI)