Commotion, India

Photograph by Paraj Shukla

This photo is a depiction of impermanence, imprints, and impressions of life. Oblivious of the din due to a midnight fair, the pilgrims have queued up to pay their obeisance to their lord, Shiva, on the pious occasion of Mahashivaratri festival. Those who have received the blessings retire with spiritual satisfaction. Location: Kyasara village in a deep pocket in southeast Rajasthan, India. —Caption by Paraj Shukla

This photo is from the 2008 International Photography Contest . See photo galleries, play jigsaw puzzles, and download wallpaper of images from more than 105,000 submissions.