23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
Tongue Piercing

Devotees of the Charak Gajan festival perform the traditional tongue-piercing ritual, adorned in vibrant headgear, shells and garlands. Amid the forest setting, their intense expressions echo deep faith, endurance and centuries-old tantric traditions.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 04.2025
Date Uploaded: 11.2025
Photo Location: Chandaneswar, India
Camera: ILCE-7M3
Copyright: © RUMELA DE