Skip to main content

Due to recently announced federal immigration rule changes affecting international students and visiting scholars in the United States, immigration information on this website is subject to change. The new rule takes effect on September 15, 2026. Ohio State is reviewing the changes and will update this website as additional information becomes available.

Prayers on the Ganges

Silouhette of a boat with fishermen on it.
Prayers on the Ganges - Photographer Brian Cruickshank

Location: Varanasi, India
Date: October 2007
Photographer: Brian Cruickshank
University Affiliation: Alumni
Home Country: United States
Category: Places
Award: 1st Place

"The most holy river for Hindus is the Ganges; the most spiritual place is Varanasi, through which this holy river flows. Varanasi, during the day, is like most of India - chaotic, frenetic. But in the morning, a calming peace takes hold, when the people come to pray. This photograph, taken in the early morning mist, shows a man at prayer on this most holy of rivers and reminds me of Varanasi at its most magical time of day."