The saffron Brigade

[subrataofkris]

Recently on my way back from a trek, I was lost in a wave of humanity in the religious temples of Haridwar. It was a splash of colors, mainly saffron and a lot of interesting faces. It was fun milling around with the crowd and snapping them from far. Here asking permission is not the way of life. Here's one of the faces.

In case, such a genre interests you, here is the link to my album
Haridwar - a set on Flickr

Thanks for looking

[flavio]

Interesting characters indeed.
The portrait is very well done! The lighting is good and the focus is right.
I hope you will publish some more of them.

As far as I understand red dot on your forehead symbolizes belief in god and it is applied on in venerations and festivals. This red spot is traditionally called SINDUR - made of a red mineral whose chemical name is Hingul or Cinebar (Mercury Sulphide - HgS), the ore of Mercury. Quite toxic, as you may imagine.

In present days many wear a red sticker as a quick, safe and easy way out.

[subrataofkris]

Originally Posted by flavio

Interesting characters indeed.
The portrait is very well done! The lighting is good and the focus is right.
I hope you will publish some more of them.

As far as I understand red dot on your forehead symbolizes belief in god and it is applied on in venerations and festivals. This red spot is traditionally called SINDUR - made of a red mineral whose chemical name is Hingul or Cinebar (Mercury Sulphide - HgS), the ore of Mercury. Quite toxic, as you may imagine.

In present days many wear a red sticker as a quick, safe and easy way out.

Thanks for looking Flavio.
In this part of the world, modern science has no impact. This place still survives in the 19th century. Millions of pilgrims, mostly form rural India throng to this place everyday. It is impossible for even modern Indians to comprehend the atmosphere. I found this aspect fascinating.
The link to the album is Haridwar - a set on Flickr

[dlalonde]

Great capture. Looks like an interesting fellow.

[Heaterguy]

Very nice portrait. His face bears the look of many experiences and struggles.