Devout Hindus bathe in River Ganges

Millions of devout Hindus led by naked ascetics with ash smeared on their bodies plunged into India’s holy River Ganges today in a ritual they believe can wash away their sins.

The ceremony in the northern city of Allahabad took place on the most auspicious day of the Kumbh Mela, or Pitcher Festival, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings which lasts 55 days. The festival continues until March 10.