That includes naked naga sadhus, wandering monks who walked for weeks from the remote mountains and forests where they are usually devoted to meditation.
It also includes the transgender Kinnar Akhada.
Traditionally, Hinduism had only 13 religious akhada groups which only included men.
The transgender Kinnar Akhada changed that when they were accepted as the 14th member in 2019.
Hindus believe that those who immerse themselves in the river waters at the Kumbh Mela cleanse themselves of sin, breaking free from the cycle of rebirth and ultimately attaining salvation.
After bathing, pilgrims come to the camps of religious orders seeking blessings.
“A blessing from a kinnar is considered very auspicious,” said 38-year-old pilgrim Mangesh Sahu, queueing for a bead from the group.
