Naga sadhus at the Sita Ram festival in Chitrakoot
These naked holy men belong to Naga group of sadhus. Most of them smear their bodies with ash and have long matted hair. It is said that constant exposure to the weather makes them resistant to temperature extremes.
They are often feared, (understandably by young children) and normally would hold center stage at the big festivals, (kumbh mela) where many professional photographers flock to take their photos. Here in Chitrakoot it was very relaxed and being the only tourists in town we had the Naga babas to ourselves. I just wish I hadnt been so shy and taken more photos, although the light wasn't the best, they really didnt mind and were more than happy to pose for me.