23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Travel
Veiled Devotion

Amid the vibrant rituals of a traditional Indian ceremony, a woman bows in quiet reverence, her face delicately obscured by a translucent orange veil. Her expression, softened by the sheer fabric, speaks of focus and inner calm. Beside her, another woman in a red tie-dye saree adjusts or participates in the ritual, adding a sense of community and shared purpose. The stone steps, scattered with marigold flowers and remnants of offerings, tell the story of a place steeped in spiritual practice. This intimate frame captures a deeply human moment of devotion, tradition, and identity.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 12.2023
Date Uploaded: 10.2025
Photo Location: Haridwar, India
Camera: NIKON D750
Copyright: © Prithwis Chatterjee