In Varanasi, early morning ceremonies are centered around the Ganga Aarti, a sacred ritual performed on the ghats of the Ganges River. Priests, dressed in traditional attire, perform this ceremony at dawn to honor the river, which is considered sacred in Hinduism. The aarti involves the lighting of large oil lamps, offering of incense, chanting of hymns, and ringing of bells. As the priest moves the candles and lamps in a rhythmic pattern, the ceremony is accompanied by devotional music, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere.
Thibault Gerbaldi is a self-taught Leica photographer and passionate traveler, known for authentic stories from the world’s most remote regions. His work spans landscapes from Greenland to India, blending documentary, travel, and portrait. He has self-published seven books and earned recognition: 1st at Siena Awards 2025, International Photo Awards 2025, and TPOTY Rising Talent (2024). Exhibited globally and featured in LFI and LENS Magazine. As a board member of The Forgotten International, he supports humanitarian projects.