Held once every twelve years at Allahabad, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik, Kumbh Mela is essentially a gathering of sadhus, sants, pilgrims, and tourists who congregate for a dip in the waters of one of India''s holiest rivers. The Mela at Nashik, (Maharashtra State), is held on the banks of sacred Godavari in the thick of monsoon. Nashik Kumbh Mela: A Spiritual Sojourn draws us into the very heart of this traditional festival, with insights into its origin and significance, and the world of reclusive sadhus. Govind Swarup''s spectacular photographs, his intriguing close-ups and the magnificent aerial shots capture the very essence as well as the sheer magnitude of this immense, time-honoured congregation.

Govind Swarup, a bureaucrat by profession, is an eminent photographer, whose work has featured in some of India''s leading magazines, newspapers, and photography journals. Currently, he is Principal Secretary to the Government of Maharashtra and lives in Mumbai.