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 |