Millions in India throng the Ganges for a holy bath

At least half a million Hindus braved chilly winds and took a dip in the icy waters of the Ganges river in a holy Himalayan town today to mark the beginning of a six-week religious festival.

Chanting hymns, thousands of Hindu men, women and children, bathed at the "Kumbh Mela", or Pitcher Festival, held every 12 years in different Indian cities.

Hindus believe that bathing in the Ganges during the festival cleanses them of their sins, speeding the way to the attainment of nirvana.

More than 50 million people from India and abroad are expected to visit the holy city of Haridwar over the new few weeks, authorities said.

People gathered near the river banks in northern Uttarakhand state before dawn and began bathing as soon as the sun rose.

A tight security ring was in place in Haridwar with policemen keeping a close eye on pilgrims with the help of more than 120 close circuit cameras.

"I am very happy. I am feeling blessed," said Indu Karn, a woman who came from the eastern state of Jharkhand.

"I have come here to bathe for my salvation in the Ganges. I am really happy," she said, shivering after several dips in the icy cold waters.

After dipping in the polluted but sacred waters, many filled cans and bottles with water, saying they would carry them for their relatives who could not make it.

Haridwar is one of four spots where Garuda, the winged steed of Hindu god Vishnu, is said to have rested during a battle with demons over a pitcher of divine nectar of immortality.

Garuda's flight lasted 12 divine days, or 12 years of mortal time, hence the celebration of "Kumbh Mela" every 12 years.

Pilot Baba, a Hindu monk with thousands of followers in many countries, said the Kumbh showcased the best of Indian spiritualism.

"Kumbh is the soul of Indian culture. Kumbh gives us an opportunity to connect with the world, to be a progressive nation," said the saffron-clad monk, as many bowed before him in respect.