Images: How sadhus become Naga sadhus at the Maha Kumbh
How do men become Naga sadhus, considered among the most unique holy men seen at the Maha Kumbh? Here are photographs of men who have chosen to join the ranks of the holy men.
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In this combination of two photos taken on 13 February Hindu sadhu Brihaspst Giri poses before, left, and after, right, he had his head and face shaved as part of an initiation ritual where he was to become a Naga Sadhu, or naked holy man, at the Maha Kumbh Festival at Sangam. The initiation of new Naga Sadhus can only be performed at the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad, which occurs once every 12 years. AP
In this combination of two photos taken on 13 February Hindu holy man Baba Sanjay poses before, left, and after, right, he had his head and face shaved as part of an initiation ritual where he was to become a Naga Sadhu. AP
In this combination of two photos taken on 13 February, Hindu holy man Baba Vinod poses before, left, and after, right, he had his head and face shaved as part of an initiation ritual where he was to become Naga Sadhu. AP
In this combination of two photos taken on 13 February, 2013, Hindu holy man Baba Ramshwal poses before, left, and after, right, he had his head and face shaved as part of an initiation ritual where he was to become a Naga Sadhu. AP
In this combination of two photos taken on 13 February Hindu holy man Baba Giri poses before, left, and after, right, he had his head and face shaved as part of an initiation ritual where he was to become a Naga Sadhu. AP