Millions of Hindu pilgrims gathered in Prayagraj, India on Monday, Feb. 4 to take a dip in the confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers on the most auspicious bathing day of the Kumbh Mela. The ash-smeared Sadhus and Sadvis took the first dip into the river, followed by other monastic orders. The Kumbh festival is one of the biggest spiritual events in the Hindu religious calendar and Hindu pilgrims bathe in the river in the belief that it cleanses them of their sins. (AP) | Voice of America