Sex workers seek salvation by dancing around burning pyres at Varanasi’s Manikarnika Ghat

In Varanasi, the three-day Shringar Festival culminates with 'Nagar Vadhus' dancing around burning pyres at Manikarnika Ghat, venerating Mahashmashan Nath. Originating hundreds of years ago, this tradition, which includes tantric rituals and devotional songs, is embraced by courtesans hoping for salvation and a better next life. Flowers, music, and prayers adorn the ghat during the festival.