Vivek Singh’s Celebrating Faith – Kumbh Mela is much more than a mere collection of photographs—it is a visual and spiritual journey into the heart of one of the world’s largest and most sacred gatherings. Capturing the 2019 Kumbh Mela, this book takes readers deep into the event’s soul, offering an intimate glimpse into the devotion and rituals that have defined it for centuries.
The book begins with a powerful aerial shot of the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Sarasvati rivers. The vastness of the crowd at this sacred location is awe-inspiring, and the sheer scale of the Mela is immediately apparent. This opening image serves as a perfect introduction—its grandeur hints at the profound spiritual energy that fills the space, while also reflecting the deeply personal devotion of millions. Remarkably, the aerial shot was taken not with modern drone technology but from a helicopter, a feat that underscores the photographer’s dedication and commitment to capturing the event from every conceivable angle.
Vivek Singh, who worked as a senior officer in the Uttar Pradesh Government during the 2019 Kumbh Mela, offers a unique perspective. His role in overseeing the event’s logistics—from ensuring subsidized food for visitors to organizing the flow of the vast crowds—speaks to his deep understanding of both the event’s operational complexity and its spiritual depth. His participation in the Mela isn’t limited to management; he is also a participant in its rituals and a witness to the faith that propels it. As a photographer, he brings this experience to life through nearly 100 stunning images.
The images in Celebrating Faith reveal the Mela’s complexity, from the meticulous marking of the Akharas to the majestic procession of elephants carrying Naga Sadhus. Singh’s photos do more than capture moments; they evoke them. The images are imbued with the raw energy of the crowd, the palpable heat of the sun, and the intensity of the chants that reverberate through the air. The most iconic moments—the "Shahi Snan," the sacred bath—are depicted not just in their grandeur but in their intimate, personal beauty. Singh’s attention to detail and his ability to find moments of quiet grace within the chaos are what set this book apart. Vivek Singh also includes a breathtaking photograph of the procession of the Juna Akhada in Varanasi, capturing the powerful and vibrant energy of this revered group of ascetics as they make their way through the sacred city. This image further enriches the narrative, highlighting the deep spiritual significance of the Kumbh Mela beyond the main event in Prayagraj.
What makes Celebrating Faith truly remarkable is its ability to document not just the rituals but the people—ordinary individuals and ascetic sadhus alike—whose lives are intertwined with the spiritual pulse of the Kumbh Mela. Through his lens, Singh manages to reveal the deeply human side of this religious celebration, portraying the myriad ways faith manifests itself in every corner of the gathering. Each photograph feels like a personal invitation to the viewer to experience the Mela not as an outsider but as a participant in its spiritual journey.
The foreword by Shri Dinesh Khanna, a renowned photographer, provides further context to the book’s significance. Khanna praises Singh for his sensitivity and dedication to the project, acknowledging the immense challenges involved in documenting such a monumental event. The foreword highlights how Singh’s work transcends mere photography; his images serve as a reflection of faith in its rawest, most profound form.
One of the most striking aspects of Celebrating Faith is its exploration of the Mela’s deeper meaning. The book reminds us that the Kumbh Mela is not just about the sacred bath during the Shahi Snan, but about the act of living in faith. Faith, as portrayed here, isn’t confined to rituals—it is something lived daily, through devotion, struggle, and communal experience. The Mela, as Singh captures it, is not merely a religious gathering but a living expression of the spiritual bond shared by millions.
Visually, Celebrating Faith is a masterpiece. The quality of the book’s design and production mirrors the reverence with which the event is treated. The thick, rich paper and impeccable print quality allow each photograph to shine, capturing not just the moments but the nuances of light, shadow, and color. Every detail is finely crafted, enhancing the experience of diving into the world of the Kumbh Mela. The result is a book that is as much a collector’s item as it is a tribute to the enduring power of faith.
In conclusion, Celebrating Faith – Kumbh Mela is a powerful tribute to one of the world’s most remarkable spiritual gatherings. Through Vivek Singh’s lens, we are invited to not just witness the event but to feel it—the heat, the chants, the devotion. This book isn’t just for those interested in photography or the Kumbh Mela—it’s for anyone who seeks to understand the living, breathing expression of faith in its purest form. With its breathtaking visuals, insightful narrative, and exceptional craftsmanship, this is a book that will resonate with anyone who has ever sought the deeper meaning of faith, devotion, and unity.
A truly timeless collector’s piece, Celebrating Faith is an essential work for anyone captivated by India’s spiritual heart.
You can find Vivek Singh on the Web:
About Raj Sarkar
Raj Sarkar is a Street Photographer and Educator. He holds MBA Degree in Finance and Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Application. He is the founder of the World Photographic Forum and Curator of APF magazine Street Photography. He loves exploring possibilities on street. His main object is to Freeze the emotions and actions of people.
He delivers the lecture on photography in various Colleges and institutions like IIM (Indian Institution of Management), Union Chappell school, etc. He also conducts countless workshops on street photography. He also curates’ various exhibitions and he has also been appointed as a judge in various competitions.
Raj is a recipient of various awards, recently he has won the International Puskar Mela Contest, Winner Wiplay Photo contest “India in Color”. Finalist of Garuda World Photo contest and HIPA and his work has been exhibited worldwide. He reviews various gadgets and cameras including the Fuji x camera for Fujifilm. His article has been published in all renowned magazines and websites in the world like Fujilove, Street Photography Magazine, USA, Viewfind, APF Magazine, Smart Photography, Better Photography, Asian Photography, Chiiz magazine, Saveus, 121 clicks, National Geographic, and more. Recently his photographs have been showcased in London Street Photography Festival and Indian Photo Festival.
