This photograph captures the essence of Rakher Upobash, a significant Hindu religious observance. During this sacred festival, thousands of devotees gather at Barodi Temple to honor the memory of Baba Loknath, an 18th-century Hindu saint revered across Bengal.
Men, women, and children begin arriving at the temple in the afternoon, securing their spots to sit side by side in quiet devotion. As evening falls, they light oil lamps, offer fruits, and engage in collective prayers, creating a powerful atmosphere of spiritual unity.
Fasting from morning till night, the devotees seek divine blessings through their deep faith and discipline. A key part of the ritual involves burning dry coconut husks, which release thick, aromatic smoke believed to purify the surroundings and ward off germs. The resulting ambiance—dense with smoke and illuminated by flickering flames—transforms the temple grounds into a surreal and sacred space.
I felt truly fortunate to witness and capture this enigmatic moment through my lens.